This sadhana, organized by the worldwide Kundalini yoga community, involves 4,000 people (yes, four thousand) in 65 countries who have officially signed up to participate. The whole world is crackling with group energy and here I am, sitting on my mat, missing out on that sense of utter oneness and peace. I've had that connection happen before -- in fact, many times. But not lately.

Frankly, it's bugging me. I mean, I teach this stuff - shouldn't I be wrapped up in the bliss? Maybe I'm a fraud. Maybe I should skip the teaching gig, including the Bits, so as not to inflict my mediocrity on others...It's not supposed to be this way! I'm supposed to be feeling the love! In the groove! Blowing my mind! Right?

Not necessarily.

These assumptions are the by-product of avidya, the Sanskrit word used in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali to describe false perception. Avidya is made up of four branches: asmita, expressed in ego-driven thoughts of superiority or righteousness; raga, expressed in making demands out of entitlement or greed; dvesa, expressed in rejection of things painful or unfamiliar; and abhinivesa or fear, expressed in too many ways to mention.

My doubt and frustration indicate how avidya is influencing my understanding and also expose a persistent character defect that I know plagues many of us: perfectionism. As a recovering control-freak overachiever workaholic egomaniac, I typically want my every action, thought and breath to be superlative. So I bring expectations into everything I do -- including my yoga practice -- and if I can't be perfect (whatever the hell that means), then forget it. Sheesh. Can you say asmita?  

Even though I want to let go of my perfectionism, it's not easy for me. In fact, I suck at it, which must be why I keep bumping into thwarted expectations wherever I go. But consistently showing up to my mat is an exercise in self-awareness and commitment. The commitment keeps me coming back even when I am swimming in avidya-inspired boredom, defeat or distraction. Rather than running away from the discontent, I am able to recognize the false perception and, ideally, change my understanding.  

By releasing my expectations, I'm able to be present in my meditation. Then I am humbly reminded that the purpose of my experience is not to condemn or praise it. The purpose of my experience is to experience it.  

Armory Center for the Arts in Pasadena

Community Class

10 to 11:30 a.m. 

$15 suggested fee

Complimentary! Gratis! On the house! 

North Hollywood  

Thursday 7:30 p.m. 

Saturday 11 a.m.    

"Yoga" is a word that derives from the Sanskrit "jugat," which means to join together. The purpose of all yoga is to awaken consciousness. Various styles of yoga emphasize differing methods to achieve that awakening. No style of yoga is "better" or "worse" than another, they simply employ different methods for practice.

Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini yoga uses breath, sound and movement to create a awareness of and connection to mind, body and spirit. A typical class lasts 90 minutes. The session includes tuning in, warm up, a set of poses called a "kriya" designed by Yogi Bhajan for a specific effect (such as glandular balance or spinal flexibility), meditation, relaxation and closing.  

Hatha yoga is the most widely practiced form of yoga in the world. Hatha Yoga uses asana (postures) and conscious breathing in combination with mental focus to develop awareness, strength and flexibility, and relaxation. Poses and sequences common to Hatha yoga (such as sun salutations) are often part of the warm up for my Kundalini yoga classes. 

Private Classes

Private classes at my studio are available by appointment for $75.00 per class. You will benefit from personalized yoga sets and meditation specific to your needs and/or requests, typically lasting 90 minutes. For an additional transportation fee (based on mileage), I am able to provide private instruction in your cat-free home. 

Mat Space Reservations

Space is limited to six mats per class in North Hollywood. For this reason, online reservations are required to attend. Online reservations are requested, but not required, at locations other than my home studio. Private classes are by appointment only. Please email me to ask questions or make an appointment. 

Cancellations 

Students who cancel their mat space reservation with less than 24-hour notice will be asked to pay the full class fee. No charge for cancellations with more than 24-hours notice.  

Private Classes

Private classes at my studio are available by appointment for $75.00 per class. You will benefit from personalized yoga sets and meditation specific to your needs and/or requests, typically lasting 90 minutes. For an additional transportation fee (based on mileage), I am able to provide private instruction in your cat-free home.