THE VALUE OF SANSKRIT (This week's newsletter was composed by our dynamic on-demand teacher and full time writer Elinor Cohen. Check out her Instagram HERE and her amazingly empowering advanced & intermediate sessions on our on-demand archives.) Namaste. Asana. Dristi. Chakra. These beautiful words are derived from Sanskrit, one of the oldest ancient languages in documented history. Sanskrit is an Indo-European language, with roots dating back to the Ancient Greek times of c.750-400 BCE. Only a few areas of India still use Sanskrit as their main language; instead, it’s primarily used in Hindu religious texts, Budhhist hymns, and yoga classes. As a yoga practitioner, you’ve probably heard several Sanskrit phrases, either in classes or just around the yoga community. You may not have known what the words meant initially, but with time and repeated exposure it’s likely that you’ve become accustomed to one or two words - maybe you speak a little Sanskrit yourself! Only about 14,000 people worldwide still use Sanskrit as their primary means of communication, which poses the question as to why we use it in yoga. Sanskrit is a great way to connect back to the original lineage of yoga and pay homage to the practice’s most authentic tenets. In a way, it’s a form of going back to the origins and keeping things classic. Sanskrit is also good for clearing up confusion. Some English “translations” of poses yield different interpretations. For example, some people may call one pose “fallen triangle” while others may call it “fallen warrior,” but in Sanskrit, that same pose is simply called Patita Tarasana. Now that begs the question: if a teacher doesn’t use Sanskrit, does that make them any less qualified? No. Sanskrit is good, but in the West it’s not absolutely necessary in every class. Most teachers interweave it with the English translation of poses as a way to infuse the modern practice with the ancient. It’s up to the teacher, the studio, and the students as to how much Sanskrit is incorporated. Some students will respond better to it than others. Sanskrit is valuable but it’s really about how you use it and the intention behind its use. YOGA RETREAT -- VICYASA™ IN TULUM LET'S GO TO MEXICO! "The Wild Heart" retreat at Villa Pescadores in Tulum is right around the corner. Join Vicyasa™ & Luna Castilho March 31st - April 6th for daily yoga, excursions & much more. We'll have single rooms, shared rooms and loads of incredible options for dietary needs and anything to help your retreat one to remember. What else will we be doing? Journaling, meditation and activities along with chill time. For registration, CLICK HERE. Sui Yoga will be handling the bookings. If you have any questions, please let me know. To check out the venue, see their instagram HERE. Would love to see you in Tulum. ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY
Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott (@leannerays ), Elinor Cohen (@elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 3/18/2024 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 3/19/2024 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 3/20/2024 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 3/21/2024 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 3/22/2024 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 3/23/2024 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 3/24/2024 NO CLASSES *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™
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Yoga at OHM Schedule w/ Victor 1/29-2/4/2024: Yoga Retreat TULUM WILD HEART; Heat Building1/28/2024 "Breathe deeply, until sweet air extinguishes the burn of fear in your lungs and every breath is a beautiful refusal to become anything less than infinite." Want to build heat in your practice? I got'yah! The practice of yoga, when given true care and awareness can help you build heat and it ignites a rise in heat to the body, invigorates your internal organs, activates muscles and gets your cardiovascular system excited. Step 1: True attention to the Breath: keep the breathing consistent, control your prana (upward rising energy) and apana (outward flow). Are you really focused on your breathing or are you more worried about the posture, aesthetic of the pose and the next pose rather than staying in tune with the inhale and exhale? When we don’t connect with our breathing, the joints and muscles will be rigid and then you cannot align physically on the mat to meet your needs. Step 2: Focus on your alignment: It is imperative for muscular development and advancement into structured poses to practice proper alignment that serves your body's needs. Instead of over-stretching, practicing the same variations without taking note of your spatial positioning and not being self-aware of mechanics, allow the muscles to engage around our skeletal structure and allow your alignment to help you create heat through fitting positioning in poses. Step 3: What are we eating or drinking pre-class, doing pre-class? Select your foods carefully, drink hot drinks, warm foods and avoid inflammatory foods and alcohol. A hot shower or warm bath prior to the practice is also recommended. ** When we don’t build enough heat, the joints and muscles will be rigid, and the progression of poses will seem disconnected. Internal heat is essential for preventing injuries and it helps create more ease in the deeper poses. Getting some of the cardio component with repetitions and standing flows also targets our most important muscle... the heart. As teachers & students we have to remember that in order for us to get into the middle and end postures safely, it requires effectively warming up the spine, shoulders, hips, and hamstrings from various angles. YOGA RETREAT -- VICYASA™ IN TULUM LET'S GO TO MEXICO... "The Wild Heart" retreat at Villa Pescadores in Tulum is official and half the rooms have been sold. WE ARE EXTENDING OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT SPECIAL JUST FOR YOU -- CONTACT ME TO SECURE THAT DEAL. CLICK HERE FOR INFO. Join Vicyasa™ & Luna Castilho March 31st - April 6th for daily yoga, excursions & much more. We'll have single rooms, shared rooms and loads of incredible options for dietary needs and anything to help your retreat one to remember. For registration, CLICK HERE. Sui Yoga will be handling the bookings. If you have any questions, please let me know. To check out the venue, see their instagram HERE. Would love to see you in Tulum!!! ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 1/29/2024 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 1/30/2024 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga WEDNESDAY: 1/31/2024 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 2/1/2024 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY: 2/2/2024 6:30 am -- Sunrise 45 Vinyasa SATURDAY: 2/3/2024 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 2/4/2024 9:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ “Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people.” Obviously, yoga is a huge part of my life. It began as a way to relieve stress, re-shape my body, rewire my mind... but the more I practiced, the more I knew I needed yoga in my life. When I finally made the decision to participate in teacher training, I did not expect yoga to become what I did for a career. My yoga teacher training was awakening, life altering and transformative. It put many things in perspective and it helped me to realize what was no longer in alignment with how I wanted to live my life. When I made the choice to leave my job as an Occupational Therapist and pursue teaching yoga full-time, I knew it was the right decision. I knew then, that my Dharma, my path, was to teach yoga, translate the teachings as they aligned with my experiences and be a guide, a voice and an aspiring model of the doctrines. As time goes on, I see how my path becomes even more clear. I didn't decide to teach yoga to become a yoga celebrity, to become rich, or popular. I did it to serve; to help people heal themselves as I had found the path to be a healthy one for me. I know that not everyone will like me or how I teach. And I'm okay with that because that means I am being authentic. I always say, I don't want to be everyone's favorite jam for their toast. If everyone likes me, that means I am doing something wrong and not being true to myself, which wouldn't be practicing Satya (truth). Teaching is something that comes natural to me because I love to share my knowledge. When we surrender we place our faith and trust in the Divine. We aren't trying to control or manipulate outcomes, we just go with the flow and we live our lives in the moment. How freeing, right? Now, this doesn't mean we don't take personal responsibility for our actions, it just means we aren't attached to any particular outcome, and we trust there is a Divine plan. We don't know what the future holds or how the rest of our lives will unfold. Ishvarapranidhana (creative surrender) is placing trust and faith in something greater than ourselves and knowing it will all work out to benefit all. At least, that's what I'm hoping for. Again, I don't have all the answers. I know I can't control outcomes or people; all I can control is myself and my response to life. And I choose to let go and live free, with no attachments to cause my own suffering. Again, that's what I'm working towards and constantly practicing. Find your purpose and be of service to the world. And then let go of the results. Trust that the Universe has your back, just like you have mine and I have yours. YOGA RETREAT -- VICYASA™ IN TULUM LET'S GO TO MEXICO... "The Wild Heart" retreat at Villa Pescadores in Tulum is official and half the rooms have been sold. WE ARE EXTENDING OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT SPECIAL JUST FOR YOU -- CONTACT ME TO SECURE THAT DEAL. CLICK HERE FOR INFO. Join Vicyasa™ & Luna Castilho March 31st - April 6th for daily yoga, excursions & much more. We'll have single rooms, shared rooms and loads of incredible options for dietary needs and anything to help your retreat one to remember. For registration, CLICK HERE. Sui Yoga will be handling the bookings. If you have any questions, please let me know. ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY -- MLK SALE EXTENSION
Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott (@leannerays), Elinor Cohen (@elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 1/22/2024
*ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ "Run with your heart instead of your mind. When you think with your mind, you think of the things you can and can't do. But when you run with your heart you forget about what you can't do, and you just go out and do it." -- Gerry Lindgren To reap the benefits of a yoga practice, we must practice only for ourselves and no one else. Each of us needs something distinct from our yoga practice because each yogi’s body & mind is unique.
Some of us are more lengthier. Some of us are blessed with strong arms. Some of us have a history of dance or athletics with an innate sense of balance. But no two of us have the same genetic composition. Nor do we have the same history; life experiences, injury background, childbirth, or conditioning, all which contribute to the individuality of our body and mind. And yet it is so easy to compare ourselves! When we compare our own practice to that of others we lose the personal connection to our body that is so integral to the practice of yoga. To get the most out of our practice, we need to be in touch with how our body is responding to each pose. This is called the mind-body connection. Only you can know your own body. You can listen to yourself in a way that no one else can -- not even your yoga teacher! You can enter a posture and notice if it creates undue tension in certain parts of your body. Then, you can adjust yourself to accomodate your needs. When we begin to listen to our bodies we realize that our needs are simply that: needs. They are no better or worse than anyone else’s. To create the most joy on and off our mats, we must embrace our individuality and look after the person we know best: ourselves. ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY -- HOLIDAY SALE Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott (@leannerays ), Elinor Cohen (@elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 1/1/2024 - New Year's Day No Classes TUESDAY: 1/2/2024 6:30 am -- 45-min. SUNRISE FLOW WEDNESDAY: 1/3/2024 6:30 am -- 45-min. FLOW THURSDAY: 1/4/2024 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY: 1/5/2024 6:30 am -- 45-min. SUNRISE FLOW SATURDAY: 1/6/2024 8:30 am -- Power 45 SUNDAY: 1/7/2024 9:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ YOGA FOR VATA SEASON Adjusting Your Yoga For The Wind And Cold “For fast-acting relief, try slowing down.” - Lily Tomlin “In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you.” - Deepak Chopra Have you noticed a dryness in the air? A bit of chaotic energy? An increased need to rush and hurry? Windy weather and cooler temperatures are indicative that Vata season is upon us. As the Ayurvedic dosha ruled by air and space, Vata peaks in late fall and lasts through the early days of winter. It’s known for bringing about dry, cold, and flighty qualities. A Vata imbalance tends to result in these qualities showing up more prominently, but regardless of their constitution, just about everyone will experience some effects during this time. Common signs of a Vata imbalance include:
Navigating this transition to chillier temps and a more erratic head space may require adjusting both your yoga practice and some of your daily habits. To combat the flighty mentality Vata season often brings, it’s a good idea to incorporate more grounding elements into both your movement and your life. Slower, more mindful movement is a great antidote to chaotic Vata energy. Grounding postures like tadasana (Mountain Pose), vrksasana (Tree Pose), and malasana (Garland Pose) may also help bring you back to a home base. In addition to how you’re moving your body, it’s also a good idea to think about what you’re putting in it. Avoid raw foods like salads and uncooked vegetables, as these could increase wind (gas) and may be hard on your digestion. Instead, opt for well-cooked potatoes, nourishing soups, nuts, ghee (clarified butter), and oil-rich dishes. During this time, prioritize meditation and seek out comfortable, relaxing spaces that help you feel centered. Just like all seasons, this time is temporary. Adjust your practice according to your needs and you’ll be just fine. (This week's newsletter was composed by our dynamic on-demand teacher and full time writer Elinor Cohen. Check out her Instagram HERE and her amazingly empowering advanced & intermediate sessions on our on-demand archives.) ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY -- HOLIDAY SALE
Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 12/18/2023
*ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ IS YOGA ENOUGH…? “He who knows that enough is enough will always have enough.” - Lao Tzu (This week's newsletter was authored by teacher extraordinaire and full time writer Elinor Cohen. Check out her Instagram HERE and her amazingly empowering advanced & intermediate sessions on our on-demand archives.) Finding yoga often feels like a whole world has opened up. There’s a connection to body, mind, and breath that’s unlike any other form of movement. Spend a little more time on your mat and you’ll likely see just how physical the asana practice can be. That leads many people to question whether yoga is enough exercise or if they need other “workouts.” As with so many questions, it depends.
First things first, yoga isn’t just a “workout” in the physical sense. It’s active, that’s for sure, but the workout you get isn’t just going to be for your body; it’s also going to be for your mind. With that said, if the physical benefits are something you’re after, you’re in good company. Many people seek out yoga for this very purpose. Yoga offers a lot of physical benefits; certain types like Ashtanga and Vinyasa are very bodyweight focused and can help you get stronger. After all, think about it: chaturanga is essentially a low push-up. Hopping forward in a Sun Salutation mimics a reverse burpee. Then there are all the arm balances, which require a ton of upper body strength, and the inversions, which, when done correctly, can set your core on fire. And we didn’t even talk about navasana (boat pose)! There are so many athletic components of the asana practice. What “depends” when answering the aforementioned question is the type of yoga you practice. A vigorous vinyasa flow can be great for getting your heart rate up and giving you your daily dose of cardio. In that case, yes yoga may be “enough.” On the other hand, taking a gentle Hatha class with very little balancing and mostly seated postures may not give you the athleticism you’re after. These two examples are both extreme and most yoga exists in between the two of them. Many classes have parts that are a little challenging as well as parts that are very relaxing. The stretching and lengthening you get from these classes are valuable in their own right. The key is to find the class that aligns with your goals. If you’re looking to get into an arm balance or master a challenging pose, yoga may not be enough. By that, we don’t mean strenuous enough. Rather, you may need to supplement your practice with other strength training to get you there. If building muscle and increasing strength is your goal, taking open level or level 1 classes might not cut it. If the goal is to move and breathe, then you probably don’t “need” more. Remember, what’s enough for one person isn’t the same as what’s enough for another. That even exists within a single class or a style of yoga. One chaturanga may be enough for one student; another may require 5 to get the same feeling. What’s most important is to not judge it and to remember that YOU are enough. Yoga just supports the journey you’re already on. ON-DEMAND ACCESS ONLY -- SALE Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $60 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 12/4/2023
*ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” - John F. Kennedy I want to confess something... something that has been weighing heavily on my mind and heart. I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that for awhile, I have been feeling down; with health, emotions, thoughts, the space I've created etc. along with all that is being revealed in the news, volatility with world leaders, mass shootings, war – I sometimes find it hard to remain positive and not let all the sadness get to me.
Meditation and reflecting has helped to remind myself that worry doesn’t get me anywhere. It only diminishes the value of the good things I have in my life; a roof over my head, being able to teach etc. With Thanksgiving unfolding quickly, I think we can all benefit, myself included, with making gratitude yoga a regular practice. When we open ourselves up to be grateful for what we already have, we open ourselves up to all life has to offer. Gratitude yoga is mostly about your state of mind. It involves making a conscious effort to incorporate thankfulness into your yoga routine. This can be done in a variety of ways: through setting an intention at the beginning of the day, before you begin your practice, or as part of your movement practice, being loving and aware of how the asanas can be healing and soulful and not just rigorous and challenging. It can be easy to forget that we have a lot of things to be grateful for when life turns bleak and grey, but that just means we have even more of a reason to include gratitude in our yoga practice, on and off the mat. ON-DEMAND ACCESS OPTION Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $70 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 11/20/2023
*ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ THE POWER OF A YOGA COMMUNITY “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller (This week's newsletter was composed by our dynamic on-demand teacher and full time writer Elinor Cohen. Check out her Instagram HERE and her amazingly empowering advanced & intermediate sessions on our on-demand archives.) Way back when, people used to come together and form communities based on churches, synagogues, temples, or other forms of religion. That still exists, but the more secular world in which we live has more or less phased that congruence out of mainstream society. It's harder to find your community these days. One of the very special aspects of yoga is the community it can create.
Finding like-minded people who think the way you do and share similar values can be challenging; yoga makes it a little easier. The physical practice may be what brings many of us to the mat, but time and time again, you'll see the same faces show up to in-studio classes for more than just the asana. Perhaps it's because they know their favorite teacher will be instructing or maybe the time just works well for their schedule. These patterns of people begin to foster a sense of community that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Sweating, breathing, moving, laughing, falling, trying, and falling again breeds community. Sharing knowing smiles when the teacher calls out "double chaturanga!" builds connections. Letting out a collective lion's breath after practicing "Ujjayi" pranayama for 55 minutes is both satisfying and unifying, especially when everyone does it together. There is true power in community. In fact, some might say that the yoga community itself is a higher power. Yoga may just be the vehicle we need to access it. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 10/30/2023 No Classes TUESDAY: 10/31/2023 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga WEDNESDAY: 11/1/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa THURSDAY: 11/2/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY: 11/3/2023 6:45 am -- Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga SATURDAY: 11/4/2023 8:30 am -- Sweat Fest Yoga SUNDAY: 11/5/2023 9:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ "Comparison is the thief of joy." —Theodore Roosevelt The quote above is very relevant in association with our yoga practice. I'd like to add that "Perfectionism" is also the thief of joy. Neither comparing nor the word perfect have any place in any meditation or yoga practice.
Too often, students feel self-imposed or outwardly pressured to advance in their poses; social media & studio culture, our upbringing, all influence and can sabotage our healthy yoga lifestyle. These pressures can lead to burnout, injury, and competitiveness—which is not the part of the construct of yoga. Nor is that a feature of any ancient scriptures or texts. That mode of practice creates suffering and can stunt our imagination and excitement for the practice as yoga practitioners. Of course, progressing in the practice of asana is beautiful too - but only healthy when that progress includes peace, mindfulness, awareness and inner knowing. This practice is one of joy. It’s meant to teach us to live up to our full potential. Not to be "perfect" or compare yourself to someone else, or to unhealthy standards not fitting your present. It’s a journey that we choose to embark on. Life is already a wild ride... so arrive on your mat this Fall and allow your breath, your practice, and the deep roots of yoga support you to feel more grounded and connected to the beauty that is you. ON-DEMAND ACCESS OPTION Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $70 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 10/23/2023 No Classes TUESDAY: 10/24/2023 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga WEDNESDAY: 10/25/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa THURSDAY: 10/26/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY: 10/27/2023 6:45 am -- Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga SATURDAY: 10/28/2023 8:30 am -- Sweat Fest Yoga SUNDAY: 10/29/2023 9:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ AM I A YOGI? “I am not the body. I am not even the mind.” - Sadhguru (This week's newsletter was composed by our dynamic on-demand teacher and full time writer Elinor Cohen. Check out her Instagram HERE and her amazingly empowering advanced & intermediate sessions on our on-demand archives.) Have you ever thought to yourself, “Am I a yogi?” It might seem like a loaded question. What constitutes calling yourself a yogi? What do you have to do to earn that title? Is someone who practices yoga once a week a yogi? Do you have to practice every day to qualify? Do you have to sit for hours in silence and abide by all of the yogic principles in order to be worthy?
The answer is that you have to define it for yourself. One could practice asana every single day, know the Bhagavad Gita inside and out, have memorized all the yamas and the niyamas... but if they get rattled every time a beginner comes to class, or if they get irritated when things aren't done their way, are they a yogi? Perhaps not yet. To be a yogi is to practice unity. To practice yoga is to yolk, to unite; uniting body, mind, and breath with your inner spirit. How this looks could change each day. Some days you may be more yogic than others. There is no definite answer to the question of, “Am I a yogi?” Instead, see it as an opportunity for thought. Am I a yogi? Well, do you want to be one? If so and if you feel that you're not one yet, what steps can you take to become one? Maybe it's practicing a bit more kindness towards others on a daily basis. Maybe it's fostering a sense of community within your yoga studio. Maybe it's practicing asana more often. With this question, don't stress. Just get curious. PRIVATES: ONE-TO-ONE WORK! If you want to set up any private sessions or events, please contact me through email. You can learn more about privates: CLICK HERE! SINGLE CLASSES We've added single class purchases to our on-demand offerings. How does it work? A $17 payment will give you access to a single pre-recorded class with Victor or anyone on his staff. The private link with unique access code will give you entry to that class, which you can load anytime you want. You'll have 24-hours of unlimited access to that class. No refunds, returns and you must use that class within 24-hours of receiving it before it expires. You can request a teacher on our on-demand options... featuring Demetra Kentrotas (@d_meetch), Leanne McDermott ( @leannerays ), Elinor Cohen ( @elinorraerigby) and others. ON-DEMAND ACCESS OPTION Now you can subscribe to on-demand only and get access to our ever-changing archive of pre-recorded sessions. For $70 you get 30-days of on-demand accessibility. This package does not include live scheduled sessions. Upon payment, class access begins. COMING SOON... Yoga with Victor's mentorship program for teachers looking to sharpen their tools and hone in on varying skills that will make you more proficient at sequencing, teaching anatomy, or widening their skill set to become a successful instructor and craft your own business model. YOGA AT OHHHMMM LIVE VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 9/18/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa TUESDAY: 9/19/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga WEDNESDAY: 9/20/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa THURSDAY: 9/21/2023 6:30 am -- Sunrise Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY: 9/22/2023 6:45 am -- Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- Flow Yoga SATURDAY: 9/23/2023 8:30 am -- Sweat Fest Yoga SUNDAY: 9/24/2023 9:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 45/60 MINUTES *WAIVER STATEMENT: I understand that I must be in good physical health to participate in these classes, that my participation may cause an injury and that I should consult with my physician before I take a class. I am taking these classes at my own risk. I waive any claim for personal injury and any other damages that I may have against the school, studio and/or the teachers who are offering these classes. REGULAR RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- Victor@YogawithVictor.com NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ |
AuthorIf I'm doing it, I'll be talking about it. Yoga chatter & more. Archives
March 2024
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