Yoga with Cat McMahon, llc

Newest Topeka Yoga Session Starts Soon!

2012-01-30T15:17:00.002-06:00

Can you believe that January 2012 is almost behind us?

Me neither!

New Yoga Session

Monday, February 13th thru Monday, March 26th

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level II (no new students)

NO CLASS March 12th

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level I

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm, Gentle Yoga

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10 am, All Levels

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Topeka Yoga Workshop Series 2012

2011-12-22T15:19:00.001-06:00

Foundations

Advanced Yoga Workshop Series

Anatomy, Yoga Asana and Therapeutics

Saturdays ~ 12 Noon - 3 pm

$35.00 per class, if paid in advance

$45.00 per class, on the day of the class

Class Themes

Restoratives: Yoga for Stressful Times
January 28th

Intro to Yoga: Beyond the Asana. History, Myth and Ayurveda
February 4th

Core Basics Revisited: More than just an Abdominal Workout
February 18th

What's Your Dosha? An Ayurvedic Medicine Primer
March 10th

Hatha Yoga: Work Hard, Rest Easy
March 24th

Moving from the Organs: Key Poses that Revitalize the Body and Mind
April 14th

Foundations: Advanced Yoga Workshop Series
topics to be discussed here: catofoz.blogspot.com

Again, I will be putting together information on what to expect with each workshop. It is highly recommended that you pay for the workshops in advance to secure your space.

Please make checks out to "Cat McMahon."
Send payment to:
Align and Stretch Studio
5638 B SW 29th Street
Topeka, KS 66614

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Topeka Yoga Classes January 2012

2011-12-02T11:00:00.001-06:00

Happy Holidays Everyone!!!

Listed below is the Topeka Yoga schedule for the New Year. Yoga has been around for over 5,000 years, so it really isn't in the exercise fad category (thank goodness). Think of Yoga as a tool to keep not only the body but the mind healthy (it's all connected). Come and experience what Yoga is all about. You won't know until you try.

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

6 Week Session Starts Monday, January 2nd and ends Saturday, February 11th, 2012

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ starts January 2nd

Level II (only available to current students, no new students please)

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ starts January 4th

Level I

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ starts January 5th

Gentle Yoga

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10 am ~ starts January 7th

All Levels

Classes held at: Align and Stretch Studio, 5638 B SW 29th Street, Topeka, Kansas

***Please enter the door just to the left of Pilates Performance and Rehab. It is set back from the parking lot, unlike the other businesses.

Prices

6-week session ~ $90.00, make-ups are within the session

Drop-in ~ $20.00, per class per student

10 Class Punch card ~ $150.00, valid for 6 months

Unlimited Class Pass ~ $100, renewed monthly, one per student

Private Yoga Class ~ $90.00, scheduled with teacher in advance

Please check back for more

Saturday Yoga Workshops Coming Soon in January 2012!

Gift certificates now available

2011-11-04T17:42:00.000-06:00

Gift certificates for Yoga classes now available.

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Yoga Session Starts Wednesday, November 2nd

2011-10-05T14:28:00.002-05:00

New Yoga Session

starting

Wednesday, November 2nd

and ending

Saturday, December 17th

***No classes November 23rd, 24th and 26th.

6 Week Yoga Session

Wednesdays: November 2nd - December 14th

Level I, 6 pm - 7:30 pm

NO CLASS November 23rd

Thursdays: November 3rd - December 15th

Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+, 1 pm - 2:30 pm

NO CLASS November 24th (Thanksgiving)

Saturdays: November 5th - December 17th

Level I, 8:30 am - 10 am

Intro to Yoga, 12 noon - 1:30 pm

NO CLASS November 26th

Mondays: November 7th - December 12th

Level I, 6 pm - 7:30 pm

Questions: ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Classes held at

5638 B SW 29th Street

in Barrington Village strip mall

door just to the left of Pilates Performance and Rehab door

Payment Options

6 week session = $90.00

Drop-in = $20.00 / no drop-in with Intro class

10 class punch card = $150.00 / valid for 6 months

Unlimited Monthly Pass = $100.00 / one per student / renewed monthly

New Yoga and Ayurveda Blog

2011-09-08T20:19:00.002-05:00

Since this blog seems to work best to list Yoga class and workshop schedules, I have started another blog for my Yoga and Ayurveda related articles.

I currently am taking my articles from my Examiner blog and putting them on my own personal blog that will be ad free (yay!!). Please check back weekly for new topics I will be discussing.

As always, please feel free to add your thoughts on these 5,000 year old sister sciences, Yoga and Ayurveda. Thank you!

Namaste`

www.catofoz2.blogspot.com

Topeka Yoga Session for September 2011

2011-08-21T12:19:00.006-05:00

Always wanted to try Yoga?

Surprise yourself (the hardest part is getting to class) by coming to one of two free classes right here in the capital city.
Current students are welcome, but why not bring a friend?
Share this experience that you know helps you relax and feel better in your body.

Free Yoga Classes

Wednesday, September 7th

6 pm - 7:30 pm

and

Thursday, September 8th

1 pm - 2:30 pm

All levels welcome.

All props provided, but if you have a sticky mat bring it.

Limited space is available, so come early.

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New 6 Week Yoga Session Starts

September 14th - October 29th

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ Level I

September 14th - October 26th ~ NO CLASS September 28th

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+

September 15th - October 27th ~ NO CLASS September 22nd

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10:00 am ~ Level I

September 17th - October 29th ~ NO CLASS September 24th

Saturdays: 12 noon - 1:30 pm ~ Intro to Yoga

September 17th - October 29th ~ NO CLASS September 24th

**Intro to Yoga class may be cancelled due to low enrollment.

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ Level I

September 19th - October 24th

Classes held at

Align and Stretch Studio

(the door set back and to the left of Pilates Performance and Rehab)

5638 B SW 29th Street

Topeka, Kansas

Payment Options
6 week session = $90.00

Drop-in = $20.00 / no drop-in with Intro class

10 class punch card = $150.00 / valid for 6 months

Unlimited Monthly Pass = $100.00 / one per student / renewed monthly

Newest Yoga Special

2011-08-05T19:45:00.002-05:00

One Month of Unlimited Yoga Classes for $100.00!!

This is a great deal for Yoga students

who want to take multiple classes per week.

No card necessary.

One Special per Student.

You can start at any time!

Namaste`

Newest Topeka Yoga session starts July 20th (Updated Version)

2011-07-09T12:08:00.004-05:00

Free Yoga Classes

All Levels Welcome

Wednesday, July 13th ~ 6 pm - 7:30 pm

Thursday, July 14th ~ 1 pm - 2:30 pm

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Yoga schedule

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level I

July 20th - August 31st

NO CLASS August 17th

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm, Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+

July 21st - September 6th

NO CLASS August 18th

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10 am, Level I

July 23rd - September 10th

NO CLASSES August 20th and September 3rd

Canceled: Saturdays: ~~12 noon - 1:30 pm,~~ ~~Intro to Yoga (no drop-ins)~~

~~July 23rd - September 10th~~

~~NO CLASSES August 20th and September 3rd~~

**Class may be cancelled if enrollment is low

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level I

July 25th - September 12th

NO CLASSES August 15th and September 5th

6 week session = $90.00

drop-ins = $20.00

**no drop-ins for Intro Yoga Class

10 class punchcard good for 6 months = $150.00

Unless you have a punchcard, missed classes are made-up within the session.

Classes are held at:

Align and Stretch Studio

5638 B SW 29th Street

Topeka, Kansas 66614

I am also on Facebook at:

Yoga with Cat McMahon

Revamping the Yoga schedule.

2011-07-06T18:25:00.001-05:00

Change is good. Change is constant. Change is all we can count on. :-)

Some of you know that I just moved to the country this last June, and we are still unpacking. I haven't finished painting all the rooms on the main floor, but at least the bedrooms upstairs have a new coat of paint.

Since we have chickens and cats, we knew that dogs were next on the list of animals we needed on the farm. Last Friday, Jon and I adopted a 7 year old Border Collie named Summer. She had been at the Lawrence Humane Society since last February, and she is a gem. We all love her very much. She has already proven to be a good guard dog and alarm when someone is at the door. (I had visitors yesterday. County appraisers.)

Essentially, I am explaining why I am going to be changing next session's Yoga schedule.

I should have something new up sometime tomorrow that shouldn't cause too many problems but also will allow me to take care of our ever expanding farm. As we take in more and more animals, life will be busy. I want to not only have time to teach Yoga but time to live out my dream. Thank you for your patience during my transition. My hope is that you are just as blessed and are able to live your dreams as well.

Namaste`

Classes cancelled due to personal emergency.

2011-06-30T19:43:00.000-05:00

My son, Luke, fell 7 feet off of a scaffolding today and was taken to the emergency room.

For obvious reasons I had to cancel Yoga classes today

since I needed to be in Lawrence with Luke. It was a long wait in the emergency room but we were well taken care of at LMH.

Luke complained of neck pain initially but all his x-rays and MRI scans said that he was okay. We think that he will be hurting tomorrow, but at least he is with me so I can take care of him. That was a long drive from Delia to Lawrence. I have made that hour long drive a lot this month, but today's drive seemed to take forever. I am so, so, so glad he is alright.

New Topeka Yoga Session Starts July 20th

2011-06-15T09:37:00.002-05:00

Free Yoga Classes on July 14th (and now 15th, too)

All Levels Welcome!!

1 pm - 2:30 pm

~~6 pm - 7:30 pm~~
see July 7th post above for updated info

Questions: ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Current Yoga Session, Wednesday, June 1st - July 18th

Check out posts below this one for details.

Summer Session Starts Wednesday, July 20th and Ends September 12th

Yoga for Beginners ~ Wednesdays, 6 pm - 7:30 pm

July 20th - September 12th

NO CLASS August 17th

Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+ ~ Thursdays, 1 pm - 2:30 pm

July 21st - September 1st

NO CLASS August 18th

Level I ~ Thursdays, 6 pm - 7:30 pm

July 21st - September 1st

NO CLASS August 18th

Level I ~ Saturdays, 8:30 am - 10 am

July 23rd - September 10th

NO CLASS August 20th, September 3rd

Level I ~ Mondays, 6 pm - 7:30 pm

July 25th - September 12th

NO CLASS August 15th, September 5th

***I won't be teaching the week of August 14th - 20th due to my Relax and Renew II Training with my teacher, Judith Hanson Lasater, in San Francisco. Since she only offers this training once every three years, I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity to attend another of her fabulous workshops.

Judith will be teaching a 3 day workshop in Overland Park this October at the Yoga School of Therapeutics. I highly recommend attending any and all workshops by this amazing teacher. 40 years of teaching! Thank you, Judith!!

A few new pics from Align and Stretch Studio

2011-06-06T09:59:00.001-05:00

Just some updated photos that I wanted on this blog. I did have some photos of the studio after we originally opened in November.

Since then we have a brand new and beautiful sign.

I have a lot more props for Yoga classes.

So many changes!

I am currently moving out to the country with my fiance`,

so life is a little hectic right now.

Here's a picture of what you will see when you walk in the door. I love the warm feel of the room. I hope to see you at the studio soon! Lots of great classes listed in the post below.

Namaste`

New Topeka Yoga Session Starts June 1st

2011-05-14T11:55:00.011-05:00

Newest Yoga Schedule

June 1st - July 18th

6 week session

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm~ Cancelled due to low enrollment

~~June 1st - July 13th ~~~ ~~Yoga for Beginners~~

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm

June 2 - July 7th ~ Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+

Thursdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm

June 2nd - July 7th ~ Level I

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10 am

June 4th - June 16th ~ Level I - NO CLASS July 2nd

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm

June 6 - July 18th ~ Level I - NO CLASS July 4th

6 week session = $90.00

10 class punch card = $150.00 / valid for 6 months

1 class drop-in fee = $20.00

5638 B SW 29th Street

Barrington Village

Topeka, Kansas

Questions: ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Check back for free Yoga classes in July!

Please check this blog for cancellations.

2011-05-11T13:09:00.002-05:00

If severe weather is in the forecast, please check this blog for updates. I will try to cancel an hour before class. I usually leave Lawrence an hour before my scheduled Yoga class.

Tonight there is a prediction of severe weather around 5 pm. Check back to see if class is cancelled.

As with any classes I cancel due to weather or illness, you can either make up the class within the session or receive a credit towards the next session. Of course, if you have a class punch card you don't have to worry about those details.

Namaste`

~ Cat

Rescheduling today's free Yoga class

2011-05-07T11:01:00.001-05:00

The free Yoga class at Align and Stretch Studio

in Topeka

will be held Saturday, May 14th

from 8:30 am to 10 am.

I am not feeling well, so I needed to cancel today.

Sorry for the inconvenience to all who showed up.

I do hope that you will attend next week's class.

Thank you. Happy Mother's Day and have a great weekend.

~ Cat

I am taking the plunge, so I hope the water is warm.....

2011-04-15T08:46:00.005-05:00

As you will see in the post below this one, the new Topeka Yoga session starts next week. I have removed my Friday classes completely. Since I will be commuting from Delia very soon, I thought that 4 days away from my farm would be enough. 5 was too much commuting.

Hopefully in the next year or so I will have finished the room above the two car garage into a Yoga space fully equipped with ropes and all the props one might need. I think a trip to the country for a Yoga workshop and a visit with the animals might be in everyone's future! Yay!

Two new classes that will be added in May.

Wednesdays: 6 pm - 7:30 ~ Yoga for Beginners

Saturdays: 8:30 am - 10 am ~ Yoga for Beginners

FREE classes

Wednesday, May 4th: 6 pm ~ All levels

Saturday, May 7th: 8:30 am ~ All levels

Questions: ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Topeka Yoga Session

2011-04-01T15:58:00.007-06:00

New session starts Monday, April 18th and ends May 27th

Mondays
6 pm - 7:30 pm
Level I

Thursdays
1pm - 2:30 pm
Yoga for the Young at Heart, 50+

Thursdays
6 pm - 7:30 pm
Level I

****New classes added in May.
Check out the post above for details.*****

I did say that I was going to start some new intro level classes in May. I do want to add the classes but I am waiting to hear back from Groupon before I make that big plunge.
The longer I wait the closer I can get the two sessions to run together,
meaning that I might not transition until June.
When Groupon makes my deal "live" then I am sure that I will need those extra classes, especially the intro level.
We will see.

Again, thank you for your patience with this final transition. I really care about my Lawrence students very much, so it is hard to think about it ending in a month or two.

Namaste`

~ Cat

This post should be read by all.

2011-04-01T12:28:00.004-06:00

I get the impression that people think that by practicing Yoga it will protect them from all afflictions. Yoga is not a tool to make us invincible (and less in tune with what our body needs). And yet we inflict certain ideals through our Yogic postures onto our bodies by attempting to be someone else whether that is another Yoga student, teacher or picture in a Yoga magazine. When we don't listen to our inherent nature we don't nurture ourselves in this present moment, which is the real gift.

Please read link below.

jamesmacadam.com/2011/02/28/confessions-of-a-type-a-yogi/

More info on Yoga

2011-03-30T21:27:00.000-06:00

Here's a link to my Yoga related articles that I write for Examiner.com

www.examiner.com/yoga-219-in-topeka/cathleen-mcmahon

I hope you like.

Additional New Classes in May

2011-03-24T16:40:00.001-06:00

As I move all my Yoga classes

to Topeka,

l will be offering two more classes in May.

Since it is very hard to remove myself

from my Yoga family in Lawrence, please

check back for more details.

I am thinking the first or second week in May, I will

start teaching Wednesdays at 6 pm

and

Saturdays at 8:30 am.

Both classes will be 1.5 hours long, just

like the other classes.

Both of these classes will

be "Beginner's Yoga" classes.

I am very excited about this opportunity

to expand within the Topeka

community. Everyone here has been

very supportive!

Thanks to you all!

Free Topeka Yoga Classes in April

2011-03-17T15:18:00.001-06:00

Free Topeka Yoga Classes

April 14th & 15th

Thursday: 1 pm - 2:30 pm and 6 pm - 7:30 pm

Friday: 1 pm - 2:30 pm and 3 pm - 4:30 pm

Align & Stretch Studio

5638 B SW 29th Street

Topeka, Kansas

Questions: ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Foundations Workshops in April

2011-03-15T11:41:00.000-06:00

New Yoga Session Starts Monday, February 28th

2011-02-09T10:42:00.001-06:00

6 Week Yoga Session

starts soon!!

Monday, February 28th - Monday, April 11th

Mondays start February 28th

**No class March 28th**

6 pm - 7:30pm ~ Level I

Thursdays start March 3rd

1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Yoga for the Young at Heart:

Ages 50 and older

6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ Level I

Fridays start March 4th

1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Intro to Yoga

3 pm - 4:30 pm ~ Restoratives

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Great last minute gift for Valentine's Day

2011-02-08T20:59:00.000-06:00

Although I am going to keep the 6 week sessions,

I am also going to introduce a

Yoga class punchcard.

So now you have several choices.

6 week session, one class per week = $90.00 ($15.00 per class)

10 class punchcard = $150.00 to be used within 6 months

drop-in = $20.00

As always, if you pay for a session and miss a class,

you can make-up that missed class within the session.

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Free Yoga Classes Coming Soon

2011-01-29T19:00:00.000-06:00

Free Yoga Classes

in Topeka

Mark your calendars!

Thursday, Feb. 17th

1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Yoga for the Young at Heart, Ages 50+

6 pm - 7:30 pm ~ Level I

Friday, Feb. 18th

1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Intro to Yoga

3 pm - 4:30 pm ~ Restoratives

Align and Stretch Studio

5638 B SW 29th Street

Topeka, Kansas

Barrington Village Mall

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

The Meaning of Namaste`

2011-01-29T17:52:00.000-06:00

In India, when we meet and part

we often say "Namaste`,"

which means I honor the place in you

where the entire universe resides.

I honor the place in you

of love, of light, of truth, of peace.

I honor the place within you where,

if you are in that place in you

and I am in that place in me,

then there is only one of us.

~Ram Dass

Foundations: Saturday Yoga Workshops 1 - 3 pm

2011-01-16T12:36:00.002-06:00

FOUNDATIONS

Take your Yoga practice to another level with this on-going series.

January 29th: Twists to squeeze and soak muscles and vital organs

February 5th: Core Basics Revisited, more work with the abdominals

February 12th: Hatha Yoga (Sun & Moon), first hour heating poses & second cooling

February 19th: Backbends to invigorate the body

February 26th: I~~ntro to Pranayama~~~~, working with the life force (the breath)~~
This class will need to be re-scheduled.
Sorry for the inconvenience!

$ 30.00 per class

Align and Stretch Studio

5638 B SW 29th Street, Topeka

at Barrington Village

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Ayurveda and Yoga

2011-01-13T22:35:00.000-06:00

Foundations

Saturday Yoga Workshop

1 pm - 3 pm

Ayurveda and Yoga, basics on these ancient sister sciences

Finding out what your body constitution or dosha is a way to then make healthy decisions for your body type. Take your Dosha test. Discover what foods are best for you. Learn techniques on how to approach your Yoga practice (and life) that is healthy and appropriate for you.

Tools to live by.

Start with your foundation and build a strong body, mind and soul.

Basic Overview on Ayurveda

2011-01-11T14:57:00.003-06:00

Yoga and Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, the whole of life’s journey is considered to be sacred.

~ Vasant Lad

I remember when I was first introduced to Ayurvedic medicine. A fellow Yoga instructor had a copy of Yoga and Ayurveda, by Dr. David Frawley that she had brought to a Yoga teacher meeting. Being the curious sort, I promptly ordered the book and then devoured the information. The Sanskrit language and the ancient information passed down from teacher to student for over 5,000 years seemed so esoteric.

After several years of working through the detailed information, I knew that this was something I wanted to share with my Yoga students. But the big question for me was how and where to start such a daunting task? I felt like I was learning Spanish again. As much as I wanted to speak this new language, I felt very lonely.

I initially had no one to share this information, and no teacher at that time was teaching anything that had to do with Ayurveda. Luckily, that isn’t the case today. More than likely, you have heard of Ayurvedic Medicine as articles and books are popping up everywhere with information about these ancient sister sciences. I no longer feel alone as a self proclaimed Ayurveda and Yoga nerd.

The Sanskrit word Ayurveda can be defined
as the study or science of life.

Ayuh = Life

Veda = Science

I think the easiest approach to something so vast is to start with our own body constitutions or in Sanskrit, Dosha. Once you understand the basic three body types, then the fun begins. This “basic” information allows the student the ability to understand behaviors of not only yourself but also the people around you, and eventually so much more. Through this new lens of understanding, you might not take personally something said or done by another, but also it may give you pause to watch your own habits. Watching what we do makes our lives less robotic and more of a participant in our daily lives. What a gift that is to ourselves and to others.

Time to take the Dosha test. Dosha test by Dr. Vasant Lad

Do note that Ayurveda is a study of life. Not just human existence, but the cosmos. I do think that the place to start is with our own personal growth. If we understand our dosha type and lead a healthy lifestyle, then we are more able to help others and the community around us. It has to start with taking responsibility with our health: body, mind and soul.

So after I learned the basics of these body constitutions (dosha) I would watch people at various concerts that my children were performing in. To get a good seat at an event or concert, a parent needs to show up at least an hour before the event. That hour gave me time to observe various behaviors in real time (and do a little knitting, as well).

Vata dosha has the elements of Air and Ether. They are movement. Vata people actually need to sit down and relax, but they love to move. If you are seated next to a Vata person they will be moving all the time in their seat, or even move around to see or talk with others. They are easily distracted, so don’t be insulted if in the middle of a conversation they turn to look at a shiny thing or lose focus on what you are saying.

Pitta dosha elements are Fire and Water. If the room is stuffy or hot, you will know about it because they will definitely tell you their opinions! I read somewhere that Pitta dosha people should think “happy thoughts.” During the summer, Pitta dosha are very uncomfortable. I can attest to this because that is my main dosha. I cannot eat because everything seems to upset my stomach. We have very strong Ama (which is Sanskrit for digestive fire) and so we have to be careful what we eat when it is 95 degrees or hotter.

Kapha dosha elements are Water and Earth. They are the people that don’t mind sitting for hours without moving much at all. While Vata dosha can be quick to learn and forget, Kapha dosha are slow to learn but once learned they remember for a long time. They are slow to get started either moving on a project or physical exercise, but when they do get moving they have the strongest stamina of all the constitutions.

After taking the test, and reading some basic info about the various dosha, you may be starting to visualize the differences. Vata have a small build, Kapha tend to large and possibly overweight so then Pitta are in the middle weight wise but are quite hungry because of their strong digestive fire.

Does it start to make sense? I hope so. But how does this then help me with my Yoga practice?

Before I started my investigations into Ayurvedic Medicine, I had been told by a seasoned teacher that Yoga students gravitate towards teachers that look like them. At first I thought that this meant that the student was more comfortable with a Yoga teacher that looked like them in body shape and size. This still might be true, but also our body type or constitution determines what activities we choose. Once you understand your dosha, your choices may change. Just because Vata body type wants to move constantly (thus they forget to eat) doesn’t mean that is the type of Yoga they should be practicing. Go figure.

A little more info about the dosha:

Vata: They are so busy they forget to eat. When they finally eat, they sometimes make bad choices. Thin frame, dry skin, small features. They need to add some calories to their diet, and maybe enjoy sitting in a park.

Pitta: Since their digestive fire (Ama) is strong, they usually don’t forget to eat. They can have the tendency towards hypoglycemia if they don’t eat throughout the day. Not eating regular meals can irritate them (surprised?).

Kapha: Their digestion is sluggish, thus they can go long periods without eating. Exercise will help with digestion, as well as spicy foods.

This may be a lot of info to digest all at once but it is my hope that you will reread the information and investigate the wealth of information out there about this vast and fascinating ancient science. ~Namaste

Doug Keller interview.

2010-12-31T14:46:00.001-06:00

www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhUTsa-taw8&feature=player_embedded

I love this Yoga teacher!!!!

New 6 week Yoga session starts Monday, December 27th.

2010-12-10T09:38:00.001-06:00

Please scroll down to view the complete schedule of Yoga classes being held at

Align and Stretch Studio in Topeka.

Why wait until the new year to start Yoga?

Take care of your health and wellbeing (and get out of the house) by attending a Yoga class.

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Yoga Props and More!

2010-12-07T12:56:00.001-06:00

After using Yoga props for over 16 years, I will have to say that I have some opinions, for sure. One opinion is that I don't like making bolsters! I made a cover for an old friend (a bolster that I have had for 16 years) which wasn't really a problem. Now making a bolster from scratch is another issue altogether. I don't recommend it.

Recently I attended Judith Hanson Lasater's Relax and Renew Workshop (and I am currently putting together my project to get certified). I saw a lot of props (and used them) at this workshop. I think there was one pose that I counted 10 blankets, one bolster, and two blocks being used! Fun.....truly.

Basically, after looking around at what yogis and yoginis were using, I was curious about the Manduka company so I looked them up on their website. I was quite impressed with their desire to not only make long lasting products but also to use recycled materials in their props, like wool in their Yoga blankets. I was hooked.

Like most people, I was looking for an affordable yet kind on the environment product. That's when I found the company It's Simply Zen. Wonderful customer service and, of course, wonderful products to choose from. I will have to be honest, though. The deciding factor was the free shipping. Shipping, as you know, can be more expensive than the products bought.

It's Simply Zen has free shipping. Check them out if you are interested in great products. I will have them in my new studio, to be sure.

Happy holidays to all!

Namaste,

~Cat

www.itssimplyzen.com/

New Topeka Studio Pictures

2010-12-06T09:38:00.001-06:00

I am still waiting on Yoga props I ordered over a week ago, but the room itself looks gorgeous. I am very happy with the results. I think it looks inviting and welcoming.

New Session in Topeka Starts Monday, December 27th

2010-12-02T16:44:00.004-06:00

6 week session = $90.00
Make-ups are within the session
Drop-ins = $ 20.00

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 ~ Level I

Dec. 27th - Feb. 7th

No class on Jan. 24

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 ~ Yoga for the Young at Heart

Ages 50 and over

Dec. 30th - Feb. 10th

No class on Jan. 20th

Thursdays: 6 pm - 7:30 ~ Level I

Dec. 30th - Feb. 10th

No class on Jan. 20th

Fridays: 1pm - 2:30 ~ Intro to Yoga

Dec. 31st - Feb. 11th

No class on Jan. 21st

Fridays: 3 pm - 4:30 ~ Restoratives

Dec. 31st - Feb. 11th

No class on Jan. 21st

Foundations: Saturday Yoga Workshop Series

1pm - 3

$30.00 per class

Dec. 4th: Foundations in Yoga, working with Tadasana and Dandasana

Dec. 11th: Core Basics, working with the abdominal muscles

Jan. 1st: Vinyasana, Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) and more

Jan. 8th: Twists to squeeze and soak the muscles and vital organs

Jan. 15th: Ayurveda and Yoga, basics on these ancient sister sciences

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Yoga Classes Start this Week

2010-11-29T11:11:00.000-06:00

Yoga Classes at Barrington Village

5638 B SW 29th Street, Topeka

We are located just to the left (west) of Pilates Performance and Rehab. The studio is called Align and Stretch (no sign yet). Yoga and Pilates mat classes will be taught there.

**I only teach Yoga, but please go to the Pilates Performance and Rehab website if you are interested in Pilates classes.

Yoga class schedule:

Mini Sessions: 2 classes = $30.00

Thursdays: December 2nd and 9th
   1 pm - 2:30 pm ~ Ages 50 and older
   Yoga for the Young at Heart

Thursdays: Dec. 2nd and 9th
   6 pm - 7:30 pm
   Level I

Fridays: Dec. 3rd and 10th
   1 pm - 2:30 pm
   Intro to Yoga

Fridays: Dec. 3rd and 10th
   3 pm - 4:30 pm
   Restorative Yoga

** Check out the Foundations Saturday Focus Classes Series. Something for everyone!!

Yoga and Pilates Classes Now Being Held at New Location

2010-11-22T10:25:00.001-06:00

As with all renovations, we still have some minor things to complete before it is where I would like it to be. Nevertheless, the room is ready to teach classes in. I am excited for the change in the right direction!

The address is 5638 B SW 29th Street (at Barrington Village). We are just to the left of Pilates Performance and Rehab. The Studio will be called Align and Stretch. Hope to see you there!

P.S. The only class being held by me this week is tonight's Monday 6 pm - 7:30.

Happy Thanksgiving!

New Monday Yoga Classes Start November 15th

2010-11-12T14:57:00.000-06:00

Yoga classes are still being held at Great Plains Running Co. until further notice. We are still renovating, but I am very happy with the results. I am hoping that we will be teaching at the new space by November 22nd. Keep your fingers crossed!

Please look below for the list of Yoga classes being held in November and December.

Lots to choose from!

Fun Stuff Ahead at Our New Studio!!!

2010-11-08T21:30:00.000-06:00

End of the Year Yoga Classes in Topeka Start Soon!

2010-11-02T09:59:00.001-06:00

Since the end of the year

will be filled with family and holiday fun,

the Yoga schedule will be shorter than usual.

Yay!

More time to play....

New location is in Barrington Village

which is on SW 29th Street

and east of Arrowhead Street

5638 B SW 29th Street

The new Yoga & Pilates Studio

is not open yet.

I will be painting this upcoming weekend,

so hopefully soon!

Mondays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level I (1.5 hrs)

November 15 - December 6th

4 weeks = $ 60.00

Thursdays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm,
Yoga for the Young at Heart

Ages 50 and over (1.5 hrs)

December 2nd and 9th

2 classes = $ 30.00

Thursdays: 6 pm - 7:30 pm, Level I (1.5 hrs)

December 2nd and 9th

2 classes = $ 30.00

Fridays: 1 pm - 2:30 pm, Intro to Yoga
(1.5 hrs)

December 3rd and 10th

2 classes = $ 30.00

Fridays: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm, Restorative Yoga (1.5 hrs)

December 3rd and 10th

2 classes = $ 30.00

Saturdays: 1 pm - 3 pm

Foundations workshop

TBA

***For Advanced Yoginis and Yogis***

Questions? ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

I am in need of Yoga class helpers

2010-11-01T13:33:00.000-06:00

Please spread the word.

I am looking for a few yogis or yoginis who would be willing

to assist me in a prop heavy Restorative Yoga Class in Topeka.

These assistants would receive reduced tuition

in my Yoga classes and workshops.

The duties would be aiding the students in the class with their props.

Knowing the Iyengar Yoga discipline is a plus but not essential.

Assistants would be taught the various poses

and requirements of the class.

Thank you!

Namaste,

Cat

ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

New Studio for Yoga to open soon!

2010-10-31T09:53:00.000-06:00

Exciting news! Desima and I are in the process of opening a studio in Topeka, of course. The space needed a wall removed among other important changes. I will be painting the walls this week, and we hope to have the space finished before my new session starts. Yay!

Also, since the holiday season can be a time of stress, I will be offering some relaxing Restorative Yoga classes. All levels are welcome. These classes will focus on relaxing, which is different than sleeping.

Check back next week for details on more workshops during the holiday season.

Take care and see you soon!

Namaste,

Cat McMahon, CTY, RYT 500

Thursday night Yoga in Topeka!

2010-09-22T10:34:00.001-05:00

7 weeks of Yoga for the price of 6!

What a deal for only $90.00

Session starts tomorrow

Thursday, September 23rd - November 11th

6 pm - 7:30 pm

No class on October 11th and 14th

I will be attending the much anticipated Yoga workshop with

Judith Hanson Lasater and her

"Relax and Renew" certification

in Overland Park at the Yoga Studio of Therapeutics.

Questions?

ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Location:

Just to the right of the former Great Plains Running Company.

South east side of 29th and Wanamaker. Between the BP gas station and the Sheridan's Frozen Custard in a strip mall.

The Art of Asana

2010-09-16T11:24:00.000-05:00

I had a newer student ask a very good question the other day in the Yoga class I was teaching. Basically, she wanted to know if I “made up” the postures (or more specifically, the sequencing) as the class progressed or did I have a list of poses that we worked from. I smiled. As we were folding forward in Parsvottanasana, I attempted to convey that there is a method to the sequencing of the Asana (postures) but I also observe what my students need for that class and then adapt accordingly. If my students were fatigued, I would not choose to put them through Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) which is a rigorous series of postures used to greet the morning and to wake up the body. If I made the mistake of overworking my already tired students then most of those students would not come back to next week’s class. How could you blame them?

Sequencing was something that I studied in the books of the Iyengars. B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga, and Geeta Iyengar, Yoga: A Gem for Women, were the two books I studied before and after the classes I taught in the early days eleven years ago. Father and daughter, respectively, who are masters of a discipline that has allowed me to become a better person as well as teacher. If you want to know something about how to sequence your asanas then I suggest not only studying those books but also practicing their sequences. It is through performing the postures, or asana, that you become aware of the profound influence of the masters of Yoga and sequencing.

Without divulging names, I have attended a workshop where the Senior Iyengar teacher had us perform a long backbend backbend series. His method getting the body prepared for backbending wasn’t the problem. His teaching has always been fun and informative. But because of the lack of time at the end of the class, we didn’t do any counter poses to either soften the arch that we created in the back nor did we even cool down the nervous system. What that meant for me was probably the worst Savasana (Corpse Pose) I have ever experienced. I was lying on my back with my eyes closed and even though I just did a very strenuous Yoga class, my eyes were darting back and forth behind closed lids. I was not relaxed!

Please note that the backbending class was early on my Yoga path so I also did not have the tools and the knowledge available to me now. If I were to attend such a class now, I definitely would do something like Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall) with either a block or bolster after such a strong series of postures. I would expect that my mind would be very Vata-like, so I would keep my eyes open and my breath cooling. I would also choose not to teach such a class to my students.

So sequencing does matter but so does listening to your body. If that is the lesson that you receive from Yoga, then you are truly blessed!

Namaste

New Yoga Session in Topeka Starts Monday, September 20th

2010-09-15T16:12:00.000-05:00

Seven week session for the price of 6 weeks!

What a deal, only $90.00.

You save $15.00

Classes start next week.

Mon., Sept. 20 thru Oct. 25th

6 pm - 7:30 pm

All levels welcome.

Questions?

ardhachandrasana@yahoo.com

Classes in the room just west of Great Plains Running Company close to the intersection of 29th and Wanamaker.

Just a little info about what I teach and for how long.

2010-02-18T21:34:00.000-06:00

Cat McMahon has studied Iyengar Yoga since 1995, and has taught yoga since 1999, with over 1,900 teaching hours. She is currently testing for the 500 hour teacher certification with the Yoga Studio of Therapeutics in Kansas City, and then will also be certified through Yoga Alliance at the 500 hour level. Her dedicated yoga practice has fostered an investigation into yoga’s sister science of Ayurvedic Medicine which is an invaluable tool within the realm of holistic medicine. With humor and attention to detail, Cat helps the student progress personally while making the class a learning experience that is challenging as well as fun.

We should all listen to our body's inner wisdom.

2010-02-14T13:15:00.001-06:00

Poses for Sacroiliac Pain

September 2001

The late Esther Myers' 10 years as a student of Vanda Scaravelli inspired her to find her own unique, organic approach to yoga. Esther taught classes across Canada, Europe, and the United States before her death from cancer in 2004. She left behind a practice manual for beginners and a book titled Yoga and You, as well as two videos, Vanda Scaravelli on Yoga and Gentle Yoga for Breast Cancer Survivors, both of which are available through Esther Myers Yoga Studio, www.estheryoga.com.

What are good poses for people with sacroiliac pain? Which poses should one avoid? ...Natalie

Esther Myers' reply:

To begin, I would like to refer you to Judith Lasater's article Out of Joint," which is an excellent resource.

practice Before I suggest ways to work in your yoga, I recommend an accurate assessment and diagnosis of the cause of your pain by a qualified professional such as an osteopathic physician, chiropractor, or physical therapist. It may be challenging to diagnose since the symptoms of sacroiliac problems are often similar to those of other lower-back problems.

A qualified professional will try to determine if your discomfort is caused by a misalignment of your pelvis, tension in the large muscles of the hips and pelvis (which may cause the joint to jam or stiffen), or a strain (which is often due to looseness or hyper-mobility in the joints). Very often one sacroiliac joint is stiff and the other is hyper-mobile, creating an imbalance that can cause discomfort in either side. The discomfort itself may not correspond to the cause.

In her article, Judith Lasater notes that a higher percentage of women experience sacroiliac pain than men. She attributes this to "the hormonal changes of menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation [which] can affect the integrity of the ligament support around the S-I [sacroiliac] joint."

Another potential risk factor for women is that yoga poses were developed by and for men. The pelvis is narrower in men than in women, which makes it more natural for men to stand with the inner edges of their feet together in standing poses. Although I was taught to do Tadasana (Mountain Pose) and other standing poses with the feet together, I now practice and teach with the feet hip-width apart. Widening the stance creates more space in the pelvis and provides a wider base of support.

Finally, stiffness in the hip joints in combination with the unusual stresses placed on the joints through asana practice can strain the sacroiliac. If you push yourself beyond the natural range of movement in forward bends or twists, you may strain your sacroiliac joints, lower back, or knees. It can be very frustrating to hold back in class when you want to do all of the poses, but it is essential that you respect your body's limits.

If your sacroiliac joints are hyper-mobile, your first task is to strengthen and stabilize the back of your pelvis. Backbends lying on the stomach such as Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Salabhasana (Locust Pose), and Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) are particularly effective, although you have to be careful not to compress your lower back. If your back feels tight or achy after you've performed the poses, you've gone too far.

When the joint has been stabilized and you are pain-free, begin to gradually reintroduce forward bends, being careful not to overstretch the back of your pelvis. Interspersing forward bends with small backbends (listed above) may help prevent overstretching in one direction or the other. I recommend introducing twists and Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) last.

If the pain is caused by muscle tension in the back of your pelvis or by compression on the joints, then forward bends and seated poses that stretch the back of the pelvis will be beneficial. Raja Kapotasana (King Pigeon Pose) forward bend, Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose), and Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) are very effective. Remember that you may find that you need to strengthen one side and stretch the other, which will make for an imbalanced practice while you are healing.

Although the recommendations sound quite straightforward, you will have to be patient and experiment for a while to find the balance of strengthening and stretching that is right for your body.