I Believe I Can Fly!

December 27, 2019/Jennie Williford CIYT
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“Aerodynamically, the bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn’t know it so it goes on flying anyway.” Mary Kay Ash

Arm balances are one of those categories of yoga poses that either amaze, deflate, terrify, or all of the above. For me, arm balancing has always had to hold a bit of child-like play with a lot of faith. I am like the bumblebee. I was not built “light” or “airy” or “aerodynamic” in any way, so all I have gained in flight from my practice of yoga has been through just that – practice.

I am strong, but that is not all there is to standing on your arms, especially in Iyengar Yoga where we are always striving for the perfect “balance” in any asana – the alignment of strength and flexibility, stability and mobility, foundation and flight. Looking at all the possible arm balances, you will see the requirement of flexibility as well as strength, cultivation of ease within immense discipline, all without just simple contortions. This does not happen overnight.

During the arm balance workshop with Jarad, Saturday 28th at 9:30, all the elements required to strengthen, enlighten, and “lighten” your practice of arm balances will be played with and delved into. You will engage in a stronger core practice, discover ways to build strength and stability in the wrists and arms, and get deep into opening your hips.

As usual, whether you are already adept at standing on your hands or need a little lift, Iyengar Yoga is able to teach someone at any level how to approach their practice and find their own way to the awe-inspiring feel of catching some air.

Jarad is a great guide and teacher on this yoga journey. You may see him float now, but I am sure he has some tales to tell about his path and practice to that end. During this class he will break down arm balancing poses into component steps and through a well-choreographed sequence prepare you for liftoff, so don’t be afraid…be inspired and have faith!

BELIEVE YOU CAN FLY AND YOU WILL !!! Sign up today, and we’ll see you tomorrow!

Jennie Williford CIYT

Jennie Williford (CIYT Level 3) is a transplant to LaCrosse via Montana, Illinois, and originally Texas. Throughout her life moves and 5 trips to India, Jennie has acquired a well-rounded and multi-faceted approach to Iyengar Yoga since her start in 1998. Jennie loves the experimental and explorative nature of yoga in accessing deeper knowledge of the Self on every level. The practice of yoga can be intense and introspective, however as practitioners we can be light-hearted and open-minded in our discipline. Jennie is intrigued by the philosophy of yoga and hopes to share this depth of subject while teaching the physical and mental benefits that come from the practice of posture.