Journal 8

    Today's yoga session was instructed by Jen Kretzer, who held a shivananda practice. I was relieved that she practiced along with us while simultaneously facilitating the class since I am a visual learner and perfectionist. Because of this, I was assured of my pose executions. This has been my first time practicing shivananda. I was introduced to new aspects of yoga such as pranayama techniques I had not known existed like the open/close nostril breathing. Now that I have experienced shivananda, I can confidently say that it is my favorite so far. I'm not sure if it was this form of yoga itself or the instruction of Jen or both, but I was totally engaged in the session. I am interested in taking another shivananda class to further explore my new found preference. 
     I enjoyed how the sequence in which we practiced was cohesive. Jen began pranayama techniques, followed by a warm up. The feeling of easing into the practice made for a better quality of experience this time around. Next were asanas performed in repetitions and soon after, asanas that were intended to stretch, soothe, and relax. I appreciated the intermittent "corpse pose" throughout the session. The class was taught at a beginners pace but this helped me to keep up by regaining a few breaths and allowing my body to rest since my endurance isn't the best at the moment.
    Jen did an amazing job treating our yoga session as a beginners class. With every posture she mentioned modifications, gave tips on how to void hurting yourself, and the benefits that come with particular asanas. She instructed simple asanas that managed to make my heart rate rise. I would describe her style of teaching as daring, but fun. Unexpectedly, she introduced us to the headstand by giving us pointers on how to began the process of execution. Other positions such backbends were introduced which made me even more comfortable since I am familiar with them from my past as a gymnast. Overall, I liked how she stepped outside of the box but was still accommodating to her audience. Her energy and teaching style contributed to my new experience practicing shivananda. 

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