"You can only lose something that you have, but you cannot lose something that you are." -- Eckhart Tolle  If Yoga just means physical postures [asana] to you... you are depreciating and diminishing the meaning of yoga. It isn't sun salutations [surya namaskar], vinyasa flow, or chaturanga [four-limbed staff pose]. Advanced yoga does not mean difficult body positions that require strength and super-bendy flexibility. Yet, this is how Yoga is portrayed in modern times. Going with this definition disparages the profound spiritual path Yoga really is. I was introduced to yoga the way most people are today — through physical practice, a vinyasa class that quickly hooked me. When I first started practicing asana, I was immediately drawn to the technical exploration of the postures. I would research each one and figure out which muscles I needed to stretch and strengthen, release and what to stabilize or move to move forward. Then there's a time in your practice when you find yourself thinking, “now what?” It’s that moment when you realize the physical practice is just one teaching -- you start scratching the surface. Initially the asana practice put me in a mindset where we believe, like in many aspects in life "I’ll be happier once I have [more money / that dream job / fancier clothes / a partner / my own house / a car, etc…]" In relation to my journey with Yoga, it was the next yoga pose. I thought it would not only bring me happiness, but validation and success. “Once I’m able to do an arm balance, back bend or invert, more people will respect and admire me, I’ll feel fulfilled and I’ll be a better yoga teacher.” Spoiler alert: that doesn’t happen. As my practice evolved over the years, I began to recognize my mental patterns and observe them more closely. I slowly started to realize that my old belief system had failed; mastering yoga postures didn’t necessarily make me a better, or even more enlightened person. It's not to say that the postures aren't an important part of the yoga experience, they definitely are! But yoga is about what the postures teach you — compassion, patience, cultivating self-awareness. And maybe along the way of achieving Dhanurasana you learn something deeper than how to backbend — how to be in an uncomfortable situation and still be able to breathe and find some ease in your body, mind and spirit. That inner awareness on the mat starts to help us cultivate inner awareness in our daily lives so that we can start reconnecting to that quiet inner voice and make conscious choices on how we interact with the world. Most of us are walking through life with very little self-awareness. So many people have never been aware of their breath, aware of body sensations, aware of thoughts. Most of us are on autopilot, doing what we were taught to do and never questioning anything. The yoga practice is a lifelong voyage of self-discovery — one that occurs off and on the mat. Ultimately, yoga as a tool or technique is a physical practice with a spiritual intention. Everything we do physically has a deeper, spiritual lesson. We can use physical practice to learn about ourselves and to make peace with ourselves; to open up a channel into the divine, into grace; and in that space of grace there is healing and freedom. As a parting ‘gift’, I invite you to challenge your current definition of Yoga. And beyond poses; meditation, journaling, acts of compassion, listening, reading, singing, taking a walk, ... become more connected with yourself, to nature, to the world, to a partner... moment to moment without needing to strike a pose. 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! A PEEK INTO MENTORSHIP WITH VICYASA™... Many prospective teachers, graduates of teacher training(s) and a handful of you that have a desire just to dive deeper into the many aspects of a yoga practice and teaching yoga regularly have been impacted greatly by our bespoke mentoring program. Mentorship sessions can include sharing the exact experience lived, the practical wisdom I and other teachers have gained from our journey in their domain. We are highly skilled at directing strategies and processes that can sometimes transfer across different contexts. Yoga is a journey as much as a practice. In fact, it's a journey that should never end. Those of us on that journey should be open to learning new things. We should be open to new experiences. That is what mentorship offers. It's an opportunity for a more experienced yoga teacher to share their experiences with you. I am willing to work with anyone on a 1:1 basis or mini-group. There will be suggestions for your practice/teachings, you get a catered to you manual with loads of vital information and to take notes and record your questions or concerns. I will curate a personalized practice for you, based on your interest, needs, questions and situation. You then take this practice into your own life. What you discovered, felt, experienced, or learned through the lens of our personal practice will then create the context for potential offerings or paths you take whether in your personal or business life. The practices may be adapted, changed, modified, or added to. This relationship is important for professionalized yoga teachers. It’s important because as we dive into the industry we often muddy the waters between ‘teaching’ and ‘personal path.' Furthermore the environment of the yoga industry can be difficult to navigate. No one should try to do it on their own. What if you're not a teacher and would like to prepare for training or enhance your ever-hungry-desire to absorb all things yoga? Holla' at me. Feel like your 200 hour training ended with you needing more questions answered? Want to expand on those teachings? Do you feel like there are areas of your teaching repertoire that need enhancing? Contact me for more info and enrollment. 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: 8/11/2025 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 8/12/2025 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 8/13/2025 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 8/14/2025 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 8/15/2025 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 8/16/2025 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 8/17/2025 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:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™
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“If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.” – Jack Kornfield  Should I do Yoga privates/mentoring? Whether you are a beginner to any yoga practice or an experienced aspiring yogi, there is always the option to explore private yoga instruction rather than joining public group classes.
In a private yoga session and during mentoring training, the client can have complete control over what they want to work on, whatever your goals; headstand, general flexibility, clearer mind etc. Focused guidance and feedback help you achieve more in a few sessions than months, even years, of regular group classes. As a client, you can also voice your desires at any time during the relationship with your teacher -- feeling particularly low in energy on a day, you could request to have a gentler practice. Or if your goals change, you can let your teacher know. A private yoga relationship constantly evolves and adapts to your needs and wants. Scheduling is to your advantage with privates; as you create a sense of accountability with structured appointments. Private yoga classes can fit into your busy schedule. Private yoga classes provide a comfortable, safe, and pressure-free environment to learn and explore at your own pace. A private yoga teacher will tailor the class for your body and your individual needs, and break down each movement for you, ensuring you do the poses safely and correctly. With each class, your confidence and understanding will grow. If you feel like you want to join a group class, you will feel so much more empowered. One-on-one yoga coaching can help you cultivate a deeper connection with yourself. The sole focus of the class is you. Whatever is on your mind, whatever is going through your body, a private yoga teacher is there to guide you, through personalized attention and a tailored practice. Private yoga can, at times, feel like a form of therapy. Loosening muscles in your body, and dislodging negative thoughts from your mind can be a cathartic experience. 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! A PEEK INTO MENTORSHIP WITH VICYASA™... Many prospective teachers, graduates of teacher training(s) and a handful of you that have a desire just to dive deeper into the many aspects of a yoga practice and teaching yoga regularly have been impacted greatly by our bespoke mentoring program. Mentorship sessions can include sharing the exact experience lived, the practical wisdom I and other teachers have gained from our journey in their domain. We are highly skilled at directing strategies and processes that can sometimes transfer across different contexts. Yoga is a journey as much as a practice. In fact, it's a journey that should never end. Those of us on that journey should be open to learning new things. We should be open to new experiences. That is what mentorship offers. It's an opportunity for a more experienced yoga teacher to share their experiences with you. I am willing to work with anyone on a 1:1 basis or mini-group. There will be suggestions for your practice/teachings, you get a catered to you manual with loads of vital information and to take notes and record your questions or concerns. I will curate a personalized practice for you, based on your interest, needs, questions and situation. You then take this practice into your own life. What you discovered, felt, experienced, or learned through the lens of our personal practice will then create the context for potential offerings or paths you take whether in your personal or business life. The practices may be adapted, changed, modified, or added to. This relationship is important for professionalized yoga teachers. It’s important because as we dive into the industry we often muddy the waters between ‘teaching’ and ‘personal path.' Furthermore the environment of the yoga industry can be difficult to navigate. No one should try to do it on their own. What if you're not a teacher and would like to prepare for training or enhance your ever-hungry-desire to absorb all things yoga? Holla' at me. Feel like your 200 hour training ended with you needing more questions answered? Want to expand on those teachings? Do you feel like there are areas of your teaching repertoire that need enhancing? Contact me for more info and enrollment. 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: 7/28/2025 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 7/29/2025 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 7/30/2025 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 7/31/2025 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 8/1/2025 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 8/2/2025 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 8/3/2025 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:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ Yoga at OHM Newsletter Victor Cotto Vicyasa™ 6/16 - 6/22/2025: Etiquette; Don't be that person!6/13/2025 "Life is not so short but that there is always time enough for courtesy." —Ralph Waldo Emerson  Yoga studios are a safe space first and foremost... a location for growth, exploration and connection. But many times, habits that we cultivate in our own lives can trickle into a yoga class that can be disruptive to the community, potentially hazardous to the practitioners around you and ego driven in a place where we congregate for mindfulness.
This week we look at how we can be an aware neighbor on our yoga mat, and uplift the community instead of being "that person" in a yoga class. Respect boundaries: Have you ever been on an airplane with someone who couldn’t take the hint that you don’t feel like chatting for the entire four-hour flight? Not fun. Some people don’t want to sit and chat at yoga class either. It’s not personal. Pay attention to the cues people give and if they’re not feeling chatty, respect their space. Sometimes being a good yoga neighbor means knowing when to back off. Savasana: People feel uncomfortable sitting in stillness... especially those who only practice hot yoga and are always looking to move. So sometimes students roll up their mat to head out of the door during this final pose, or do abdominal work [yeah... we know those psychos] or inversions instead. But this habit means you’re not only missing out on Savasana’s benefits yourself, you’re also ruining this powerful meditative moment for the people around you. Your phone: "Oh don't worry, it's on silent...", "I have to keep track of time...", "My kids... ", "I need to leave early ... ", all excuses. Phones go off in class and become a distraction, ... you commit to your time to practice, you don't need to keep track of time... You're worried about the kids, then be there for them instead of a yoga class you can take later or earlier... you need to leave early? Take an earlier class or a later class. Leaving early... especially when it's habit: I get it, sometimes life happenings can reroute us. But then there are the habitual disruptors that leave class early just because. That is incredibly rude and disruptive. It is one in the long list of attention seeking behaviors that is anti-mindfulness. When it's a trend and continual, said person who always leaves early should take an earlier class, a later class... or just rent a gym space; and as a studio, tell them their disruptiveness and rudeness is not welcomed. #goodbye Slamming your mat: Take an extra 5 seconds to roll it out quietly. It's just rude to be noisy when everyone else is getting into yoga mode. Don't be a bull in a china shop. My own thing... not now: If you're just going to do variations of poses the teacher is teaching... stay home and do your own practice. There could be newer practitioners around you and you could be steering them into asana shapes that are not guided by the teacher and could lead to hazardous exploration. When you are noisily kicking up to a handstand while the entire class is in child's pose, why did you even come to class? If you want to practice what you like, do it on your own. Alone. Or at the very least, at the back of the room. It is distracting to the teacher and the other students. A major component of being an aspiring yogi and partaking in community classes is following tapas, self-discipline and self-restraint. Let's commit to following the yamas and niyamas for the good of all. Part 2 of this series will be posted in the coming months... A PEEK INTO MENTORSHIP WITH VICYASA™... Many prospective teachers, graduates of teacher training(s) and a handful of you that have a desire just to dive deeper into the many aspects of a yoga practice and teaching yoga regularly have been impacted greatly by our bespoke mentoring program. Mentorship sessions can include sharing the exact experience lived, the practical wisdom I and other teachers have gained from our journey in their domain. We are highly skilled at directing strategies and processes that can sometimes transfer across different contexts. Yoga is a journey as much as a practice. In fact, it's a journey that should never end. Those of us on that journey should be open to learning new things. We should be open to new experiences. That is what mentorship offers. It's an opportunity for a more experienced yoga teacher to share their experiences with you. I am willing to work with anyone on a 1:1 basis or mini-group. There will be suggestions for your practice/teachings, you get a catered to you manual with loads of vital information and to take notes and record your questions or concerns. I will curate a personalized practice for you, based on your interest, needs, questions and situation. You then take this practice into your own life. What you discovered, felt, experienced, or learned through the lens of our personal practice will then create the context for potential offerings or paths you take whether in your personal or business life. The practices may be adapted, changed, modified, or added to. This relationship is important for professionalized yoga teachers. It’s important because as we dive into the industry we often muddy the waters between ‘teaching’ and ‘personal path.' Furthermore the environment of the yoga industry can be difficult to navigate. No one should try to do it on their own. What if you're not a teacher and would like to prepare for training or enhance your ever-hungry-desire to absorb all things yoga? Holla' at me. Feel like your 200 hour training ended with you needing more questions answered? Want to expand on those teachings? Do you feel like there are areas of your teaching repertoire that need enhancing? Contact me for more info and enrollment. 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: 6/16/2025 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 6/17/2025 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 6/18/2025 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 6/19/2025 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 6/20/2025 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 6/21/2025 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 6/22/2025 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:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ Yoga at OHM Newsletter Victor Cotto Vicyasa™ 5/12-5/18/2025: YOU DON'T OWE YOUR PRACTICE TO ANYONE5/9/2025 WHEN REDDIT YOGA GETS REAL: YOU DON'T OWE YOUR PRACTICE TO ANYONE  (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.) Recently I was on Reddit, one of the grittier social media forums, and I came across a thread on the /yoga subreddit. The topic was Class Energy and the OP (original poster) was asking if it would be acceptable for her to go to yoga classes even when she was in a bad mood. She said was in a “fitness burnout” and was dreading doing physical movement. Still, she felt like going to yoga could help her find some bliss. The issue was that she was worried “if it will disturb the vibe of the class too much if I go and smile even though I want to flip out internally.” She acknowledged that the yoga room is meant to be a sacred space and she didn’t want to disrupt the energy of the studio and of the other practitioners by bringing her less than yogic aura into the mix. On the other hand, she had paid for an unlimited membership and wanted to get what she could out of the classes. So she felt torn: to go or not to go?
I don’t often reply to people on Reddit because a) I’m not typically in search of an argument and b) I’m not sure my contributions would be all that helpful. In this instance, however, I felt like I had something valuable to say. Here was my response: "Hi OP. Here's my take: you don't owe your practice to anyone. Your yoga practice is your own. You're allowed to show up in a bad mood, speak to no one, not do half the class, and leave without ever having interacted with anyone. And honestly, that's not rude. You're also allowed to come in with a happy demeanor, be cheery and say hi to everyone, remain chipper and optimistic, and smile the whole way through. But the thing is that no matter how you are, you don't owe your practice to anyone; not to the teacher, not to the other students, not to the front desk...as long as you're respectful of the space and getting what YOU need, you're good. Yoga isn't meant to be performative. It's not a show; it's not about who can be the most "into it" or spiritual. Take the pressure off yourself. If you want to go to a class and see what shows up for you, go for it. If you think that will end up making you more frustrated, maybe opt out. It's totally up to you. Hope this helped!" I thought about that Reddit thread for a while, a long while, and it inspired me to expand upon my initial response a bit further. You don't owe your yoga practice to anyone. There's no need to force a smile because the teacher is looking at you or "perform" because you think it'll impress the other yogis in the room. Here’s a secret: it won't. You also don't need to be in a good mood or a spiritual state to go to yoga. Come as you are; bad mood, good mood, heck, let your mood ring decide for you. Your job is to show up for your practice, not for anyone else's. As a student, your job is to get what YOU need out of the practice. Yes, be respectful of the others in the room and the sacred space that is the yoga room, but don't feel pressure to act, move, or breathe a certain way. Feeling like being a little extra and really going for it? Good, do that. Feeling like dialing it back and being low key, doing the absolute minimum? Or even lying in savasana for 45 out of the 60 minutes? Go for it. You don't owe the teacher or the other practitioners exuberance, smiles, or praise. You owe them respect and consideration and as long as you're giving that, you're doing exactly what you're supposed to. A PEEK INTO MENTORSHIP WITH VICYASA™... Many prospective teachers, graduates of teacher training(s) and a handful of you that have a desire just to dive deeper into the many aspects of a yoga practice and teaching yoga regularly have been impacted greatly by our bespoke mentoring program. Mentorship sessions can include sharing the exact experience lived, the practical wisdom I and other teachers have gained from our journey in their domain. We are highly skilled at directing strategies and processes that can sometimes transfer across different contexts. Yoga is a journey as much as a practice. In fact, it's a journey that should never end. Those of us on that journey should be open to learning new things. We should be open to new experiences. That is what mentorship offers. It's an opportunity for a more experienced yoga teacher to share their experiences with you. I am willing to work with anyone on a 1:1 basis or mini-group. There will be suggestions for your practice/teachings, you get a catered to you manual with loads of vital information and to take notes and record your questions or concerns. I will curate a personalized practice for you, based on your interest, needs, questions and situation. You then take this practice into your own life. What you discovered, felt, experienced, or learned through the lens of our personal practice will then create the context for potential offerings or paths you take whether in your personal or business life. The practices may be adapted, changed, modified, or added to. This relationship is important for professionalized yoga teachers. It’s important because as we dive into the industry we often muddy the waters between ‘teaching’ and ‘personal path.' Furthermore the environment of the yoga industry can be difficult to navigate. No one should try to do it on their own. What if you're not a teacher and would like to prepare for training or enhance your ever-hungry-desire to absorb all things yoga? Holla' at me. Feel like your 200 hour training ended with you needing more questions answered? Want to expand on those teachings? Do you feel like there are areas of your teaching repertoire that need enhancing? Contact me for more info and enrollment. 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: 5/12/2025 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 5/13/2025 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 5/14/2025 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 5/15/2025 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 5/16/2025 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 5/17/2025 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 5/18/2025 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:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ Yoga at OHM Newsletter Victor Cotto Vicyasa™ 3/24-3/30/2025: Lies We Tell Ourselves About Yoga3/21/2025 The Lies We Tell Ourselves About Yoga  (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.) When you were first introduced to yoga, it’s likely that you came into it with a slew of preconceived notions. Myths ready to be debunked, they eventually were (hopefully). Slowly, perhaps, and others more quickly, but with time, you learned that a lot of what you thought to be true about yoga and being a yogi held little merit.
Over time, you may have forgotten about these so-called lies. That is, until you meet someone who’s never practiced yoga before and has no sense of all that it actually entails. It’s not their fault; you were once like them, naive and unaware of what this practice truly is. But now, as a more seasoned yogi, you can look back and reflect on the falsehoods that still surround this beautiful practice. Take these “lies” lightly – they’re only meant to shine a light on how far you’ve come now that you know just how expansive yoga can make your life. Lie: Yoga is about the poses Truth: One limb of yoga (asana) is about the physical postures. There are 7 others (8 limbs in total) that cover so much more. The 8 limbs of yoga are:
2. Lie: All yogis are cool, calm, and collected. Truth: That’s seldom the case. The thing about yogis is that we can challenge the external distractions that prevent us from exuding chaos (most of the time). Yoga teaches us to turn inward, focus on the breath, and channel our energy into a single point. 3. Lie: Yogis don’t drink, smoke, drink coffee, do drugs, or eat meat. Truth: Many yogis do all of the above. One of the yamas is Ahimsa, which translates to “non-harming.” Some people interpret that to mean cessation of drinking, smoking, doing drugs, eating meat, using disposable plastics, and more. Others see Ahimsa as how they approach their fellow yogis; the words they speak; the actions they take on a daily basis. For the record, you can drink, smoke, drink coffee, and do many non traditional “yogic” things and still call yourself a yogi. 4. Lie: You need to wear an expensive yoga outfit to practice yoga (Asana). Truth: You can practice yoga in any clothing (or lack thereof) that makes you feel comfortable. Just check with the studio’s dress code policy before you decide to make a class clothing optional. 5. Lie: Practicing yoga automatically means you must abandon your religion. Truth: Not at all. You can love, practice, and fully integrate yourself in yoga without switching religions or adopting one at all. While yoga originated in India and is associated with Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, it is not a religion in and of itself. So worry not; you can be Catholic, Jewish, Christian, Agnostic, Atheist, or anything else and still be a yogi. 6. Lie: You can’t do yoga if you’re not flexible. Truth: Absolutely not. You wouldn’t refrain from taking a shower because you’re dirty, would you? No, in fact, the very reason you’d take a shower would be because you’re dirty. The same is true with yoga. You can practice it to become flexible, strong, or achieve whatever other goals are present for you. Pro tip: the next time someone says, “I can’t do yoga because I’m not flexible,” ask them “Mentally or physically?” What other misconceptions about yoga come to mind? What were some you once believed and now know not to be true? A PEEK INTO MENTORSHIP WITH VICYASA™... Many prospective teachers, graduates of teacher training(s) and a handful of you that have a desire just to dive deeper into the many aspects of a yoga practice and teaching yoga regularly have been impacted greatly by our bespoke mentoring program. Here are some of the key topics I have programmed into varying syllabuses:
What if you're not a teacher and would like to prepare for training or enhance your ever-hungry-desire to absorb all things yoga? Holla' at me. Feel like your 200 hour training ended with you needing more questions answered? Want to expand on those teachings? Do you feel like there are areas of your teaching repertoire that need enhancing? Contact me for more info and enrollment. 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: 3/24/2025 NO CLASSES TUESDAY: 3/25/2025 NO CLASSES WEDNESDAY: 3/26/2025 NO CLASSES THURSDAY: 3/27/2025 NO CLASSES FRIDAY: 3/28/2025 NO CLASSES SATURDAY: 3/29/2025 NO CLASSES SUNDAY: 3/30/2025 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:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™  Here is part 2 of our Teacher Feature with my colleague and co-host of ‘The Wild Heart’ Yoga retreat -which is right around the corner - the amazing Luna Castilho. Get to know her a tad more... and come meet her March 31 - April 6 at Villa Pescadores in Tulum Mexico during our yoga getaway.
QUESTION: What are challenging poses for you? What pose are you looking to advance in? LUNA: Surprisingly backbends have always been challenging for me. But the pose I'd like to truly master is the handstand. QUESTION: How would you describe your classes? LUNA: My classes are weird, playful and grounding! You can expect powerful flows combined by mindful contemplations and grounding experiences, as well as somatic release, working the body, mind, soul and spirit. On vinyasa I love giving space for people to play and have fun (arm balances, handstands) and tons of pranayama. On Yin yoga classes, meditation, restorative or sound baths, my goal is to help you release, reflect, quiet the mind and heal. QUESTION: Do you like working out at night, or during the day? Time you like to practice? LUNA: I don’t like early mornings, you will see me rarely working out at that time. I feel the most alive and energetic from 11-6pm, so usually that’s the time I practice power vinyasa or other modalities of strength training, cardio or martial arts. QUESTION: Standing one-legged poses or arm balances? Why? LUNA: I don’t even need to think about it too much to answer this question. (Laughing) Although I appreciate a full rounded practice and I learn to appreciate so many different layers of yoga, I absolutely looooove arm balances. I can safely admit they were the reason that I got into yoga in the first place. And that’s the reason you see me teaching them so much and giving plenty of opportunities for my students to play. Arm balances make me feel like a kid again. I was never a flexible person, but I have always been strong, so arm balances were my doorway to yoga. As my practice evolved I started to appreciate so many other aspects of yoga, meditation, stillness, etc. But I still love the surprise look at someone’s face when they realize how strong a woman can actually be! QUESTION: What are you looking forward to on our "The Wild Heart" Retreat? LUNA: Every single thing!! (laughs) The Wild Heart Retreat will be special!! I’m excited about every single thing we are planning, from the crafted yoga classes and workshops, to the mayan jungle, pyramid, cenotes, hikes and experiences. Plus the incredible community that is joining us!! Looking forward to connecting with like-minded people, the stunning beaches, the Mexican sun, the blue water, the daily yoga classes, meditation, journaling and breathwork. The Retreat is a true opportunity to reset, reconnect and set new goals, release, re-start, re-center. Yoga retreats have always been a true healing experience for me! I can't wait to hold space and connect with all of you! QUESTION: What do you love about Sui Yoga? LUNA: I’ve been at Sui since day one. I saw Sui grow from one studio with 2 students attending, two with a full day full schedule, 2 simultaneous studios with 45 people each. We’ve grown! And I think what is special at Sui besides the well crafted teachers and space, is that Sui provides us a place to be ourselves! We don’t ask the teachers to fit a certain box, every single one of us is so different and yet we have so much to offer. As we allow the teachers to be themselves and share their craft, we allow the students to connect with teachers on a deeper level. Sui is not meant to be a workout place, Sui is meant to be a holistic healing space, that among many things allow us to move. We aim to incorporate the true meaning of yoga, union of the body, mind and spirit. Follow Luna on Instagram HERE and check out her official website: HERE. To secure your spot to our wonderful retreat, go here: https://suiyoga.com/retreats/ Tulum Mexico… from March 31 - April 6, 2024. Villa Pescadores will be our venue… lock in NOW! "Turn your face to the sun and the shadows will fall behind you." – Maori Proverb  Springtime is all about cleansing the old and nourishing the new. Sounds a lot like everytime we step on our yoga mat... right?
When we move through our sun salutations, move into our spines with twists and invigorate with our backbends, have a heightened sense of your pranayama to enhance not only the range of your shapes, but bring an awakening and rebirth as we blossom into the Spring season. A powerful & disciplined breathing practice during our pose work lets us cleanse away the winter’s density and begin to lighten up. Also, our voices and words hold great power. The throat chakra connects to the air element, which brings in a lightness to combat the Winter's heavy qualities. So inviting more affirmations and mantras to bring a connection and confidence into the revival season. Renew your energy with powerful expressions to help set a tone, inspire and get you into a positive rhythm daily. Try chanting for 3 minutes or repeating phrases or mantra to yourself at the start of a movement session, or as you catch yourself in the mirror day-to-day. Polish your luminous body and mind by revamping not just your yoga poses, but yourself, with innovative practices that renew body, mind, and spirit. YOGA AT OHHHMMM VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: MONDAY: 5/9/2022
*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. RATES:(when submitting payment, in note section state email for delivery of services)
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™  This week's 'Teacher Feature' highlights one New York's most skillful yoga instructors... Dina Ivas (Instagram: @dinaivas).
QUESTION: What is your favorite yoga pose/why? Dina Ivas: "Chair. No fuck that! Chair is NO ONE’s favorite pose. I love arm balances and inversions because they force me to face my fears, and make me feel like a badass." Q: What is your least favorite pose right now/why? Dina: "Ugh, probably anything that requires open hamstrings because mine are tight AF." Q: What lessons from the yoga mat have you applied off your mat? Dina: "Patience! Though as a raging Aries I still struggle with that A LOT, but yoga truly has helped me accept that some things take time, and most good things are worth waiting for." Q: Do you have a guilty pleasure/binged watch anything etc., during quarantine? Dina: "90 Day Fiancé, and Caribbean Life!" Q: What is your post-class meal craving? Dina: "Wine!" We'll have more Q&A with Dina in the coming weeks... and guess what? Part two of the 'Teacher Feature' with Karen Hyland. Stay tuned for more news and more teacher additions!!! YOUR YOGA AT OHHHMMM VIRTUAL SCHEDULE: (Outdoor Classes/Events this week for active subscribers only) MONDAY -- 10/12/2020 9:00 am -- Flow Yoga with Karen Hyland (Instagram: karenyogahy) 5:30 pm -- Sweaty 45 Minute Flow 7:00 pm -- Power Hour TUESDAY -- 10/13/2020 7:00 am - Wake up Vinyasa Yoga 12:00 pm -- 45-Minute Flow 6:30 pm - Vinyasa Flow with Dina Ivas (Instagram: dinaivas) WEDNESDAY -- 10/14/2020 8:00 am -- Morning Vinyasa 12:00 pm -- FREE 10 minute Meditation 6:15 pm -- Power Hour THURSDAY -- 10/15/2020 7:00 am -- Vinyasa Yoga 10:00 am -- Flow Yoga with Karen Hyland (Instagram: karenyogahy) 12:00 pm -- FREE Meditation 10 minutes 6:30 pm -- Flow Yoga FRIDAY -- 10/16/2020 7:00 am -- Saluting the Sun Vinyasa Flow 12:00 pm -- 45 Minute Invigorating Flow SATURDAY -- 10/17/2020 10:00 am -- Sweaty Saturday Fun SUNDAY -- 10/18/2020 10:00 am -- Church of Vicyasa™ *ALL CLASSES EST *SESSIONS 60 MINUTES UNLESS NOTED RATES:
PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Vicyasa Paypal -- [email protected] NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ “In asana practice we learn to cherish each breath, to cherish every cell in our bodies. The time we spend on the mat is love in action” – Rolf Gates  It is true that a consistent yoga practice will lead to a healthier body physically by helping to increase flexibility and build stamina. It will also encourage you to be more mindful about how you treat your body and mind. When you fall in love with another person you honor that person and value their thoughts, feelings and behaviors -- when you yoga, you have self-love!
Yoga and meditation encourage you to turn your focus inward and to listen to your deeper, more intuitive thoughts. As you gain more insight into your true nature, your values and your goals become much clearer. From such a loving, sacred place within yourself, you can make decisions about what you want, and don’t want, in life. By living such an authentic life you are showing nothing but love for yourself. Regardless of where you are in your practice, yoga will teach you to appreciate your body and its abilities. It’s common to start yoga and think you should immediately be able to do an inversion or arm balance and when you can’t - we beat ourselves up for it. It doesn’t take long, however, before the essence of yoga grabs you and you become aware of the negative self talk and find a way to switch it off. The more you turn up and tune in, the easier this gets. The more you come to see your body in a different light and realise that it is truly amazing. We then cherish what we can do, what we can accomplish and not look at ourselves with judgement, but with a love that only comes through when we embrace a practice that is devoted and adoring the self! Here's the schedule for this week: MONDAY -- 5/25/2020 (Memorial Day) 8:00 am: Vinyasa 11:00 am: Vinyasa TUESDAY -- 5/26/2020 7:00 am: Vinyasa 12:00 pm: Vinyasa 7:00 pm: Vinyasa (45 minute quickie Flow)* WEDNESDAY -- 5/27/2020 8:00 am: Vinyasa 6:30 pm: Vinyasa THURSDAY -- 5/28/2020 7:00 am: Vinyasa 6:30 pm: Vinyasa FRIDAY -- 5/29/2020 7:00 am: Vinyasa 12:30 pm: Vinyasa SATURDAY -- 5/30/2020 12:30 pm: Vinyasa SUNDAY -- 5/31/2020 10:00 am: Vinyasa *ALL CLASSES EST *ALL SESSIONS 60 MINUTES RATES:
(If you want to know how many classes you have remaining, when is your subscription date ending or any other inquiries, feel free to reply to this email. If you do not receive emails during the week when classes are about to begin, it means your subscription has ended or you don't have any more classes.) PAYMENT: VENMO -- @Victor-Cotto-9 THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT! NAMASTE, Victor Cotto www.YogaWithVictor.com Instagram: CottoVic Facebook: Yoga With Victor - Vicyasa™ 
Hello OHHHHMIES...
Due to the recent events, studios suspending classes and closing, I've taken my yoga classes to Zoom.us for LIVE streaming! I've been offering classes daily (AM sessions and PM offerings), trying to keep a sense of order since the events that have shaped the world we are currently living in. As I stated on Instagram (@CottoVic):
There's nothing routine about the happenings in the world and how are daily rituals have been interrupted, but keeping a regular learning, creative and structured schedule is a must. My online streaming LIVE classes will help us with structure, building forward-moving habits, and creating momentum that will carry you on the days when you feel like you don't have the strength to carry yourself. Following a daily routine can help you establish priorities, limit procrastination, keep track of goals, and even make you healthier. It lowers your reliance on willpower and motivation because, habits are
“action[s] that you take on a repeated basis with little or no required effort or thought." ​Having NO routine or structure is so much more draining mentally, physically, and emotionally than any routine could ever be! If you haven't become a subscriber to my daily yoga classes, direct message me here, or send me an email at: [email protected]. We have aired glitch free for a few days, have facilitated community during this time of social distancing and have created UNION - to YOGA means to yolk, to come together, to bind... breath, body, mind, something more divine.
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AuthorVicyasa™, your full-time dopamine dealer ... don't allow my confidence to offend your insecurity. Archives
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