Hi,

Sorry for using a stock picture again tried to download but the computer is not recognizing the camera. Today was my first day of practice at the shala so I wanted to do a blog entry while it is still fresh.

I arrived abot 10 minutes early and there were already loads of people there. When I got in I could not find a space anywhere amongst the sea of mats. Eventually I saw a space right at the front! Yikes, was I nervous. Today was a led class which means Sharath led us through the practice. If you can't do a posture in Mysore you are told to stop your practice there and then do the finishing sequence.

I have been working on one posture for months and although I can kinda do it now I was shaky with nerves, like I was on stage or something. He said stop dancing and I think he may have been referring to my wobbles! The posture that I thought I would have to stop at (ardha baddha padmottanasana) actually went fine, more flexible when in a room heated by another 50 or so bodies working in synchronization. In this posture you do half lotus whilst standing and grab your lotus foot with the opposite hand, then go into a forward bend. My lotus on the right side is week making grabbing (called binding) difficult.

I did not have to stop today until maricyasana D, another posture involving half lotus on the right side and binding into a spinal twist. I bound on the left side no problem, which I couldn't do a month ago. It wasn't far off on the right either just need to release my right hip.

Practice was slower than I expected which was good as I was worried I would feel rushed. My practice was focused and relaxed but really hard work. I was really tired when I got to head stand and only just managed to stay up.

Tomorrow is a moon day which means there is no practice. It is good as I can ease my body into the practice. Next class Wednesday will be self practice which means we go through the ashtanga sequence and are adjusted and helped when neccessary.

I have tried to explain yoga term etc but if there is anything that is not clear to the non yogi or yogini please ask! Hope all is good for you all.