Field Ledger Archive

13,278 entries across the years, 2003–2026.

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October 2023
✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Ashtanga at Any Age: Inspiration from Alma Thomas and Cognitive Improvement Research

This week, my reflections are deeply anchored by my decade-long journey with a dedicated student, Ron. As our sessions evolved from power-packed vinyasa to the disciplined practice of Mysore, an intriguing question bubbled up: Why do older adults, like Ron, gravitate towards yoga? While the physical transformations are palpable, it's the cognitive rejuvenation that's turning heads. Delving into the tales of Alma Thomas, a late-blooming artist, and recent research from the University of Illinois, we uncover yoga's holistic gift — a dance of physical mastery and cognitive bloom. For every Ron seeking a deeper ‘why’ in their practice, this exploration promises insights into the boundless potential of age and the brain's synergy with yoga.

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From @suenodevida_ecu

Is this one big
or two I need to know

(But also, hope it’s
two and they’re
having a lot of fun)
in imageFrom @suenodevida_ecu
Is this one big
or two l need to know
(But also, hope it's
two and they're
having a lot of fun)
💬 Comment
✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Mastering Stretching: Understanding Spinal Reflexes for Ashtanga Yoga Practitioners

Wondering why you just can't seem to get longer and stronger? Understanding spinal reflexes related to stretching can be a game-changer in your Ashtanga yoga practice. Slow and steady wins the stretching race, stimulating your Golgi tendon organs can prevent injury, and utilizing Reciprocal Inhibition can deepen your stretches. And remember, your spinal reflexes are always looking out for you, even if your brain is the last to know. Happy stretching, yogis

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in imageunusual whales C
@unusual_whales
JUST IN: Another US Congressman has
ONCE AGAIN bought war stocks before the
Israel and Palestine conflict.
Representative Josh Gottheimer purchased
up to $15,000 of Northrop Grumman Corp,
$NOC, on Sept 26.
He sits on the National Security Agency and
Intelligence Committees.
unusualwhales.com
@unusualwhales
💬 Comment
No, @holly.yogs.lightly , the avalanche of posts wasn’t a cry for help. Ive been quietly building a platform for more impactful teaching, and I’m implementing updated systems and protocols. And, you know me, things don’t always go perfectly on the first go. So this week all of my scheduled posts went out on the same day. 🤣🤣
Doesn’t matter— imperfect is fine by me. I’m proud of the care that has gone into making this stuff for you guys. The intentionality. Thank you guys for being interested in what I share. Newsletters out each Friday.
💬 Comment
In Times of Crisis, Pratyahara - In times of crisis, the practice of Pratyahara can help us navigate the overwhelming influx of information and emotions. It's not about tuning out the world, but rather pausing and gathering ourselves to respond with clarity and compassion. Discover how this ancient yogic practice promotes self-awareness and supports those who are suffering.
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Link in bio. Get it in your inbox, sign up to my newsletter.
💬 Comment
in imageInsight from my yoga teacher @michaeljoelhall
WOULDN'T IT BE AMAZING IF THE MINUTE THAT WE
michaeljoelhall
Insight from my yoga teacher @michaeljoelhall
INTERVENTION IN OUR YOGA PRACTICE, ALL OF THE BENEFIT OF THAT
💬 Comment
Youthful Enthusiasm and Ashtanga Yoga - Discover the parallels between a novice photographer's journey and an Ashtanga Yoga beginner. Learn the lessons of overconfidence, adaptation, and continuous learning. 📸🧘‍♂️
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💬 Comment
Lessons from Led Intermediate - In the world of Ashtanga, the road to Led Intermediate is a unique and transformative journey. It's a path that offers profound lessons—lessons that reflect our mindset, challenge our limitations, and encourage us to embrace the long view.
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Link in bio. Get it in your inbox, sign up to my newsletter.
💬 Comment
🧘‍♂️Exploring Time Delays in #AshtangaYoga 🕰️

Did you see my article (link in bio)

🔄 I intertwine the practice of yoga with systems theory, emphasizing that the fruits of yoga bloom subtly and gradually, embodying a crucial time delay between practice and noticeable benefits.

🌱 It’s like a garden, little changes are a big deal over time— consistent practice nurtures physical strength, flexibility, and mental focus, forming a continuous cycle of growth and discovery. You can’t rush the crop.

🔄 Practice becomes a holistic exploration, intertwining physical, mental, and emotional spheres.

🚶‍♂️ Navigating through the complexities and time delays in yoga involves embracing vulnerability, seeking personalized guidance, and cultivating patience and compassion.

📝 Strategies like maintaining a practice journal and engaging in community practice are highlighted as vital in navigating through the subtle, continuous progress that unfolds over time.

🌟 Remember: The journey through Ashtanga Yoga is not merely about mastering poses but a holistic exploration that unfolds patiently and subtly over time.

🔗 Link to the full in bio

#YogaJourney #Ashtanga #YogaPractice #HolisticGrowth #Patience #Consistency #YogaLife #YogaCommunity #Mindfulness #MentalHealth #PhysicalHealth #EmotionalHealth #SustainableProgress #YogaBenefits #SystemsTheory #TimeDelay #YogaMastery #YogaPhilosophy #YogaWisdom #YogaForLife #YogaEveryday
in imageI REALIZED
FLEXIBILITY, MENTAL FOCUS,
AND
💬 Comment
🧘‍♂️ Teaching Ashtanga Yoga in the Heart of Birmingham, Alabama! 🧘‍♀️

Had an amazing time at Birmingham Yoga @birminghamyoga , owned by the wonderful Heather Sullivan @magiccityyogi 🧡 Teaching Ashtanga, hanging with my dear friends (Hi, Cory Bryant @coryyoga !!) - we filled our days with invigorating practice and filled our bellies with delicious tacos. 🌮✨

Yoga, friends, and good food - what more could you ask for? 😄 #AshtangaYoga #BirminghamYoga #YogaLife #YogaCommunity #GoodTimes #TacoLove #ashtangayoga
💬 Comment
"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
in imageCERTIFIED BY SHARATH OR
Do you need to be authorized to teach ashtanga?
"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
laurenashtangayoga
I'M NOT CERTIFIED BUT I'VE
Do you need to be authorized to teach ashtanga?
"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
laurenashtangayoga
💬 Comment
two of my biggest
influences in one spot
in imageYOU WANT TO CREATE A VERTICAL POSITION BETWEEN
OKAY, THEN TURN TO THE
two of my biggest influences in one spot
💬 Comment
Equanimity— and how to cultivate it. How to get it.

We’re covering it in-depth in our ashtanga immersion.

Last spots, team!
in imageU
yogashalanashville
yogashalanashville See the thing. Cultivate equanimity.
Observe the reaction. Respond - or not - accordingly....
Equanimity- and how to cultivate it.
How to get it.
We're covering it in-depth in our
ashtanga immersion.
Last spots, team!
💬 Comment

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