Monday, July 7, 2008

Busy Night in Singapore.............



I stayed with a friend in Singapore, in one of those high rise flat. I have stayed in hotels way high up, but far in a few. My friend's flat was probably the first one I have been where I felt it was ' too high up'. Being so high up did make me felt queasy when I took a look down from his window. The fear of falling comes all rushing back in a sweep when I look out into the city. It is a bit noisy even from high above but the view was spectacular (even if I do have a phobia about heights). Yes, I don't like flying in aeroplanes. Multiple toilet visits are necessary before boarding the plane. (As a yoga teacher, I am trying to get over my fears slowly, especially when I go into headstand. )


I took a picture of the city in the night and am glad it turned out well in the photo. The view was nice to look at. The darkness in the night took the fear of height away, couldn't really see the ground much and the little lights below were comforting. I guess, it doesn't look as overwhelming during the day when the ground below is more visible and looks as if it would just swallow you up.


Well, I hope to see Singapore soon again. Seane Corn's workshop is just around the 1st August. Looking forward to it. ........and back again to the Lion City................................once more

What is Baddha Vinyasa?


Badda Vinyasa means binding flow, a complete energy Hatha yoga series practised in a graceful manner. This practice will improve joint flexibility and give a terrific energy boost. The movements create a squeeze to all our different body parts - arms, thighs, back, shoulders, everywhere - to supply better oxygenated blood to our whole body and replenish energy lost through our day's work or stress. Twisting and binding poses squeeze our internal organs, and flush them with fresh oxygenated blood to help detoxify the organs and stimulate the glands.

We will practise binding in standing, sitting, lying, and arm-balancing postures.As we move gracefully from one posture to another, our body and mind both become more aware. We will improve our coordination through such movements. When practising in this way - shifting weight and concentration from one area of the body to another - we are constantly challenged. We will be less inclined to get tired and our bodies will be happy to do more and more, no matter how much time has passed in the practice.

Baddha Vinyasa With Kenny Meitei in Singapore


Baddha Vinyasa with Kenny Meitei in Singapore was very interesting. I didn't think you could bind and lock your arms anymore than what he showed us in the workshops. At some point during the session, I did get myself all knotted up but it was good fun and challenging. Kenny Meitei was very expressive in body language as an instructor rather than verbally but we knew what he meant.
The tricky bit was went he got us to do 'Pavritta Trikonasana' doing baddha with our arms and hands at the same time into one legged Bakasana. Yes, I think I looked more like a turkey with one leg up rather than a graceful swan.
There were all sorts of people of different races and ages joining the workshop. All in all, there were approximately 60 students.
I have brought back the same asanas into my class and like me, they too found it challenging but real fun. ................