Mindstream Yoga Blog

When I first thought about teacher training my initial concern was that I just hadn't practiced yoga very much. So I thought that I wouldn't be a good candidate because I didn't come to yoga classes very often. I definitely did not want to stand out in the teacher training as the only person who didn't know what the different postures were called and how to move my body into them. So I put off the decision.

But I kept thinking about teacher training. I wasn't sure whether or not I wanted to be a yoga teacher, but I knew I wanted the opportunity to become educated about yoga. My knowledge about yoga was as limited as my yoga practice. So while I was uneasy because I was such a novice, it also concerned me that the time commitment was so extreme. Every weekend for two months plus one week night each week, ouch. I worked a full time job and had a 3 year old son who deserved my attention. What would my husband think? Mommy guilt coupled with lack of time forced me to put off my decision again.

But I kept thinking about teacher training. So I decided to meet with the lead teacher and just see what she had to say. I asked her as many questions as I could think of and finally just asked myself, "if I don't do it now, will I ever do it?" 

In retrospect, every single one of those concerns was my mind giving me excuses not my heart encouraging me to follow something that peaked my curiosity. There will always a be reason why NOT to do something. It's mustering the courage to actually go for it that is challenging.  So I decided to go ahead and do it.

My experience with teacher training evolved from expecting to learn all about yoga to an exploration and discovery of myself. It was an internal revelation into my own spirit that manifested into an external desire to teach yoga. Like anything, you get out of an experience what you put into it. By finally placing my excuses and fears aside, I offered myself an opportunity to grow. That growth has flourished in many different facets of my life.  I dismissed my excuses. I overcame a fear. Now I teach. But more importantly, I continue to learn every single day. The training prepares you to teach, but teaching is when your learning begins.

Since opening we've been amazed by the number of people that have come in saying they haven't done yoga before, but are eager to try it. Many have even mentioned that either a doctor, chiropractor, personal trainer, or other wellness professional recommended yoga as something they should be doing to improve their health and fitness. But, many of them say they are intimidated by yoga, and don't want to end up in the wrong type of class for them. By far the most common question we've heard is "where do I start?"...so today we want to answer that question by discussing our SageStream class and why its a great yoga class for beginners.

We usually describe SageStream as a "gentle flow" class. Unlike some of our more vigorous vinyasa classes, we won't be flowing through the majority of class at a consistent pace, but rather slowly moving through flow sequences with extra modification and awareness of alignment, breath, and comfort. We may also do some longer holds on some postures throughout the class, as well as break down some intermediate poses to help you find your balance and strength. This class is meant to get you moving and stretching with an awareness on your body and breath, without feeling any strain and only minimal exertion. If you have any injuries or physical limitations SageStream is well suited to you, since we give ample time in each movement to explore alternatives and modifications to target the same areas of your body without aggravating your existing limitations. Also, while we don't pump the heat or humidity in SageStream, we do warm the room to a comfortable temperature to encourage your body to relax and open as you move. Its not meant to make you sweat, but you will feel your body warm, which we think is a great thing!

Cara Maiolo, who teaches SageStream here at Mindstream, says "SageStream is a great class for anyone and everyone looking to begin or delve deeper into their yoga practice.  Sage offers a safe, open, and non-competitive environment for all people, regardless of experience or physical ability, to experience the benefits of yoga.  In Sage, you will learn more about the basic yoga postures, experience the healing power of connecting to your own breath, and also reap the stress relieving benefits of an evenly paced and mindful yoga class."

 For more information on SageStream please contact the studio at 970-266-9642 or stop by anytime. We look forward to seeing you in class!