Lessons of the Student Teacher

Monday, 12/14, started with a physical therapy appointment with Flo Moses, an excellent diagnostician and therapist. This resulted from my notice of limited range of motion in my shoulder when raising my arms. The series of stretches utilizing a strap and progressive arm widening and lifting usually loosens the shoulder socket and postural muscles. This was not so easy for me. Flo provided relief, insight and exercises, all which will translate into class lessons.
The chair yoga class at Whole Foods of Raleigh drew two students, one a new yoga teacher seeking to diversify her offerings and practice to seniors, and a young student looking to use yoga to help deal with emotional issues. This second attendee was challenged by her medication effecting how she walked. This became the basis for the class to focus on foot awareness ( four points of contact), posture and breathing. Both students felt a better understanding of proper walking mechanics from toe to head (over the spine).
The class at The Cypress of Raleigh drew three regular students with above average mobility. We took the opportunity to build up to the shoulder raises and eventually bringing the arms over head and behind the back. This evolved to a mock jumping rope routine, utilizing single leg support and hip lift, finishing up in double dutch. The focus on foot awareness was validated by one attendee who commented on feeling the soles of her feet unlike ever before and better stability in her gait. A cute follow up to the prior class at Whole Foods.