30-day Challenge - July/August 2011

This round challenge is a memorable one. There are a few people, who beat all odds and decided to join despite the journey near or far but definitely early. My gratitude to them and thank you for the support and love for the challenge programme :).

Testimonial :

Zulita -

Suggestions:

1. Perhaps run 15 - 21 day challenge. In this way, can have more frequent challenges in a year.

Remarks :

1. Instruction by both facilatators have been clear.

Cheryl Lim -

Thanks to Erin and Lily (and hubby-for babysitting and giving up his morning runs) for making this challenge possible! Well done!

Enjoyed every bit of the class and towards the end - I love the double leg lifts and the pose after that. Looking forward to the next challenge.

Can totally feel and see the difference, even get much compliments from those around me :D

Very pleased that my goals to achieve flexibility and a well-toned body is achieved. Also noticed that am much more calm and able to maximise my breathing.

Thanks loads!

Michelle Lim -

Thoroughly enjoyed the class - Thanks to Erin and Lily. Will be back for more. Thanks.

(thanks michelle for the flowers drawing :))

Chloe Lee -

The programme has definitely reduced lethargy. I used to need a few cups of coffee to help me get through the day, but now, five-minute nap is enough even though I start my day much earlier (7am!). This 30-day challenge aslo makes it easier to track my own progress, as I can feel myself going deeper into the poses with each day. It was fun, and will definitely do it again. Thank you Erin and Lily! :)

Norliah -

I have thoroughly enjoyed my 1st 30-day challenge. My body is definitely more toned and flexible. Losing the tummy! Well, I think that might take more time. At least the journey has begun!

Fedelia Ang -

This 30-day is more intensive than the earlier challenge that I attended, which is very good, as it made the workout more challenging.

Suggestions : to have rest days in between for the body to get used to the challenge during earlier weeks.

Alternating regime between challenging and more relaxed for continuous 30-days so that we will not feel too tired during the month.

May 30 Day Challenge "Post Mortem"

As morbid as the title may seem, it is THE exact opposite. There were tons of sweat, playful banter of laughter and fruitful time spent all mixed into the May 30 Day Challenge and it turned out GREAT!

I would first of all like to congratulate each and everyone of the participants and hope they will carry on each of their individual Yoga journey.

The beautiful thing about Yoga is that it is for everyone and it can be learnt from any teacher anywhere in the world. Unlike other activities that may confined you to learn from the best of the best.

I would now like to present to you the May 30 Day Challenge Participants Feedback

*Note: They are in no specific order or preference.

Karen Leu: I think my body's flexibility has increased and my pimples and acne on my face has gotten lesser too!! :)

Liza: Overall, a good program. I never expect that I can really sweat that much just by doing Yoga. Lily is a good instructor, very systematic approach towards the sequence and stretching thereafter. Looking forward to the next challenge.

Jayne Lee: Although this time, the routine is not as fun and "flowy" as the previous 30 Day Challenge, I still enjoyed myself. Lily has amazing abilities to pace the routine within the hour to make it enjoyable. I look forward to the next challenge. :)

Alice Er: This month's sequence made me feel fitter and relaxed after the exercise. As I changed to the morning regime from my usual evening regime, I have had a deeper sleep. Body feels much toner especially the arms and thighs.

Dhamiri: The 30 Day Yoga Challenge has improved my body strength tremendously. My arms, shoulders, abs, thighs, lower back have become lean and firm and it helps me in my capoeira training. My balancing has also improved. The food diet has benefited me as it is so delicious and yummy. When I first started the challenge, I found it difficult but after a while I got used to the "flow". I regularly do Yoga at Celebrity Fitness and I also found it easier to do the poses after attending the workouts at Sun Yoga. Finally, the teachers were great too and cheers to them all.

Jassy: This is my 3rd 30 Day Challenge. This round we have a new sequence, which focused a lot on hip opening, forward bend and chest opening. At the beginning, the sequence seemed not in syn as there are sit down postures followed by standing postures and then sit down postures again. But as we moved into the 2nd week, the postures seem to complement each other. By the 3rd week, some of the balancing postures that I was struggling in the beginning, such as the half moon, I could do it quite effortlessly now. All I can say is, overall the new sequences are remarkable. The saying "Never judge the book by its cover" is just so true here. The 30 Day Challenge is a good way to ensure we get the daily exercise dosage, and I enjoyed every minute of the 1hr yoga practice. As usual Lily & Erin are still at the best. Keep up the good work! Will miss Erin's healthy meals until next 30 Day Challenge, which I hope we don't have to wait too long. Namaste, till the next 30 Day Challenge =)

Shashi: Found classes to be good. I think my stamina has increased. Felt good after classes. Would have preferred to have fully trained instructors for all classes, though some of the trainers were okay but they did not help us in our moves step by step. Otherwise it was a good 30 Days Challenge.

Chris Chey: I am so glad that I enrolled myself into this 30 Days Challenge. My initial thought at the start of the challenge of was to get slimmer but what I actually achieved at the end of the challenge was definitely beyond my expectations. I can feel my body is much slimmer and firmer. Generally, I have much more strength and of course, flexible now. You should see how I struggled on my first day. Mentally, I am more confident in myself and feel more motivated not only in my fitness but also my day-to-day life. What I have learnt: There is nothing you can't do if you put your mind to it. "If you can't balance today like others, it doesn't mean you can never do it. It might take more effort and a longer time; eventually you'll still get there. Erin is a great Yoga teacher as well as a friend (she cooks really well too). I did not attend all the 30 classes (which I should have) but yet I can feel a great change in my physical self and mentally. I am definitely looking forward for my next 30 Day Challenge! Do keep the night classes, ya?

May 2010 challenge is here

May 2010 challenge is here. There are some changes to the new challenge. First of all is the sequence. This sequence is put together by Teddy, who is physiotherapy at SunYoga USA. The new sequence is direct and focused, and and just as challenging as the 1st sequence. Within 15 minutes, everyone is drenched in sweat.

I will be making salads and smoothies as part of the programme starting this Sunday! I am excited and apprehensive, as the last challenge. Excited to be exploring further than my limit and apprehensive coz not sure of the response. :)

Dr.Jacqueline Koay has been training her trainee for this May 2010 challenge and they have practised really hard since they were told that they have to teach. They have gotten their first round of feedback. We learn from feed backs. They are really passionate and eager to share.

I shall end this post with pictures of the coming menu :

Smoothies

Assorted Salads

Feedback from January 2010 challenger

Preet Kaur :

1. Very good programme
2. Challenging and easy at different angles
3. Build my personal practice
4. Build my stamina
5. Open my pores, so now I tend to swear more as I move the right muscles
6. Good Fun! Well done to Erin and Lily
7. Yummy food
8. Perhaps another set if asanas for this programme so repeat practitioners do not get bored and can join again and again.

Ee Lin :

This is my 2nd 30-day challenge. I've noticed improvement in terms of strengths and endurance at my abdomen area although I do not think I have dropped a waist size. I'm somewhat thrilled that the abdominal exercises that seemed near impossible at first is now about holding it longer. Although physically spent, I feel well-stretched and relaxed after each class. What makes it encouraging is that you'll notice that your body will eventually adjust and a few difficult poses that seemed so hard just to get into will become a challenge of endurance. Having said that, CNY is just around the corner, it doesn't help that people keep plying us with pineapple tarts and dinner invitations one after another. Sunyoga should organise a post CNY 30-day challenge.

Tan Pei Ling :

1. Good workout especially the 'leg raise'
2. Continue to have 7.30am class
3. Future 30-day challenge - different asanas but with similar aims/targets

Teoh Choi Yian :

Overall I have improved my stamina but unfortunately I did not go through the 30-day challenge which I regretted. Slight improvement on body tone. I believe if I have completed the 30 days, my body tone should have improved more.

Tan Saw Bee (Mrs. Sia) :

Before I took up yoga, I thought it was a very slow exercise and I prefer to go to gym for workout.
However, after this 30-day challenge programme, I have had an entire new perspective on yoga. My back pain and shoulder pain had gone. I find myself a little fitter (more tone up).

The trainers Lily and Erin are very dedicated.

Overall I am happy with the result and thanks to both Lily and Erin. I will definitely like to carry on yoga practise.

Jayne Lee :

Although I signed up 30-day challenge last minute (I was the last to sign up) and what I considered a rash decision, I'm so grateful I did. I was feeling very lethargic from all the eating in the month of December and lack of consistent yoga exercise due to my travelling and public holidays (fridays :(). I wanted to grow in my level of fitness, to build stronger muscles as I felt I could not do some of the yoga poses due to my lack of strength and lastly as a personal challenge - to persevere through the aches and be disciplined in my routine.

I had so much fun despite all the struggles (feeling breathless, shaking legs and core muscles and aches from all over my body). I felt my stamina improved after the 1st week and then of course, 3rd week and 4th week with longer holding time (a killer!). I felt stringer and more energetic throughout the day. The challenge to hold on longer made me want to push myself a little more and I'm glad Lily did it gradually. Overall, it was a really great experience for me, as a 1st timer - I will definitely join again and will certainly miss my morning routine!

Nicky Zammit :

I have lover the challenge, it has been a great beginning on the journey of yoga, although I have been practising for several years. coming to class everyday has made a massive difference in several ways. Firstly from a discipline point of view. I am not stretching at home as well as in class, so the prospect of self practise is looking brighter!

Flexibilty has improved and definitely strengthen.

Keeping to the routine of the sequence ad postures has been helpful, in the respect of gaining focus and concentration, but also in noticing small improvements.

I would like to incorporate one inversion at the end of the sequence though, headstand or shoulder stand, just for calming down before relaxation.

The handout with the names in sanskrit was great and very helpful.

I have really enjoyed every minute, it has been an extremely positive experience that has bought many benefits.

Thank you so much to all involved - OM Shanti

Alice Er :

1. Improved in flexibilty
2. Increase in stamina
3. Better awareness in body posture
4. Built muscles and thus feel fitter

Jassy Cheam :

This is my 2nd time taking up the 30-day yoga challenge, and it still feels great.

Both teachers, Lily and Erin are just marvelous. Lily leading the morning classes invigorates you with a faster pace, while Erin in the evening classes moving on slower pace helps you to slow down and let go of all the stress during the day. They just complement each other.

What do I feel/experience in the 2nd 30-day challenge? Well, doing it the 2nd time gives me more awareness of my yoga movements. With the familiarity gained, I could have the time to think and correct my yoga postures at each movement, unlike in the 1st challenge; I was struggling just to keep up with each posture. Also, with the awareness to my body, sub-consciously, I tend to prefer fruits and vegetables in my meal. I can't explain why this is happening. Could it be perhaps, after all the hard work, I feel guilty putting meat into my mouth or could it be that now I appreciate my body more and opt for healthier food? Well, i don't think I will become a vegan but I'm sure have been eating more greens and fruits now than what i had previously. So, it's a good thing, I guess.

With all these changes, now I am looking forward to what I will experience in my next 30-day challenge! So, Erin - when is the next 30-day challenge? Help, I'm hooked... :)

Yummy food for the soul

SunYoga Soul Not Bucks Cafe Menu

No, we are no chef. But we put in the effort and create the menu for this 30-day challenge with a variety of salads, smoothies and soup. They are healthy food for the soul.

Monday : Couscous salad

Tuesday : Smoothies

Wednesday : Hummus and Salsa wrap

Thurday : Fruits Salad

Friday : Hearty Jackfruit Salad

Saturday : Fruitti Smoothies

Sunday : Minestrone soup

So while you put in the effort and commit to this challenge, we contribute by making you healthy meals that will make it more worthwhile. Some recipes are found, some borrowed, some are from friends. They are the favourites so we hope you enjoy them as much as we do.

Namaste

A New Challenge Has Dawn

Jan 9th, the magical day where our participants appeared at Sunyoga. The sun was shinning brightly into the studio, the birds were singing their song, rustling of the tree leaves as the wind gently caressing them. Our participants starting to stream in packed with enthusiasm and energy to begin what would be a transformation, not only for their bodies but their mind and soul as well. Measurements were taken, laughter and giggles were shared, questions were answered and shortly after it all began with a sense of euphoria. Well for me that is. *winks*

With this I would like to extend a very warm welcome to our participants to the new 30 Day Challenge in this beautiful year 2010. The year of the tiger, may we attack opportunities with strength and vigor yet navigate the year's troubles away with stealth and precision.

Let everyone be Deeply Love, Truly Blessed and Highly Favoured,

Love,

Erin

What the November challenger has to say about the 30-day challenge

Jassy Cheam:

Whoever came up with this 30-day challenge idea is brilliant!

The demo class by Jacqueline was so fun... bend and kiss your knees muuaks muuaks :).. I knew I would be enhoying the 30 day classes. Not knowing now, I'm actually looking forward to join another 30-day challenge!

The effects I get from the 30-day yoga?.. I attended the morning sessions more than the evening classes. And my routine was waking up at 6.30 am for the 7.30 am yoga session, go to work and go back home only around midnight. Coincidentally this month, i had to work with only a couple of rest days. So, the same cycle repeats daily. What surprises me is, I found I has more energy than ever. And I smile more :), and easily too :). I walk with better posture now, and I can feel the force of energy within. I really didn't expect these. The feeling is just WOW...

Thank you Erin for sharing with us the book by David Byck "It's a LONG way to the Floor". And excellent book.

Thank you Indra for the extra tips and different ways to enhance our flexibility. And of course not forgetting the yummy food and smoothies. Didn't know healthy food can taste so yummy!

Kudos to Erin and Indra. Both are marvelous teachers! Their calm, soothing voice is a magnet!

I can't wait for the next class, and I will definitely return for more!

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Gan Siok San :

1. To complete the 30 days is a challenge. Try not to miss a single day as it is easier to give onself excuses once you start missing a lesson.

2. The combination of 2 instructors makes it interesting as they have their individual style/approach (not so boring).

3. The methodoly and repetitive ways Erin approaches makes it easy to remeber the steps. The holding 1 minutes for a particular pose, I am sure, is very good for some muscles but is very strenuous on my old bones and muscles ha! ha!. Wonder if anybody really holds 1 minute! Thanks for reminding us which part of our body is getting slimmer!!

4. The creative way that Indra approaches make yoga more of an Art. It makes the class interesting as I feel that yoga is like a continuous flow... but when I go back, I realise that hey! I have worked some hidden muscles!

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Wong Ching Yee :

I have enjoyed all the sessions that I've attended (yes.. unfortunately it was not all 30 :)). Each session has kept me 'rejuvenated' throughout the day, and looking forward to the next.

Thank you Erin and Indra! :)

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Zaileen Hashim :

- Good class

- Able to lift legs now without difficulty

- Food is delicious too!

Will definitely come back to do class to lose weight.

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Angie Lim :

These 30 days has "open" my eyes for yoga (one who knows nothing about it).

Enjoy every moment though feeling "tired" the last week of the month (due t0 my hectic working activities).

The last 3 weeks, I am contented that my arms are more toned (even muscles! :)). The waist line not so flabby and so is the area around the underarm.

Enjoyed the smoothies and the healthy food prepared by Indra!!!

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Shahnaz Baharuden :

I feel like the biggest challenge is making time to come everyday, especially since my working schedule is not fixed. However, I've discovered that I am still quite flexible and able to do most of the poses despite not doing yoga for a while. I do see myself improving day by day.

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Foo Kuhan :

- Although I've got the worse truancy record, it's a good workout. Cover all bases.

- Speed in class sometimes slow and when it's a daily occasion tends to get boring ( at the beginning 2 weeks).

- Good to use on away trips like me.

- Not all moves used in classes (seemed to alternate. Maybe I missed something?)

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Jessie Chew :

Joining the 30-day Yoga Challenge helped me "kick-start" yoga back into my life. I stopped yoga 2 years back due to a hectic lifestyle. The instanteneous difference I felt was peaceful & sound sleep.

Indra and Erin are warm and dedicated instructors. They make the sessions relaxed yet effective. I will miss Indra when she takes her 1-year leave of abscence. I intend to resume weekly yoga after the Xmas/New Year hols.

Thank you, Indra & Erin for helping me resume yoga again

Namaste

Jessie

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Vivian Lee :

First would like to say thank you to Indra & Erin at SunYoga. This yoga challenge programme is great for beginner. I has never done yoga prior to my experience with SunYoga. Yoga has changed my life and reduce my health problem on my medication.

My posture has improved a bit and I am getting my shape and waist back. I've lost some weight just a little bit only. I think about 1.5kg because I sweat a lot but my legs still not that strong and muscles not that tone. Maybe coz it is just a 30-day challenge. In the meantime, I will keep up my yoga everyday in the morning and also now. I think I can do it on my own for the next month at home.

I completely enjoyed it. I wish Indra could teach me again but she is away in year 2010.

The teacher teaching is fantastic and it was great to take your class. Than Indra and also thanks for all the vegetarian food and smoothies drinks. It really help on my health problem.

Thank you so much, Indra and Erin. Wish there will be another day in January 2010 but I prefer morning class ya haha.

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Araventh :

I'm really glad that I came for this 30-day challenge, as it has kept me to a habitual programme and made me resist the temptation of taking a break. This programme has made more more disciplined and made me manage time effectively. I came from Subang Jaya so I have to be here by 7am so that i skip the LDP traffic jam, so basically I have to wake up at 6am. After going through this programme also, I have become more flexible, more energetic and enthusiastic as well. I think I have lost a bit of weight, and my body has become more toned and stronger. The instructors, Indra and Erin, are very helpful and has guided me without fail. The whole class have thoroughly enjoyed the teachings and the humour/jokes that comes between teachings. Too bad Miss Indra is leaving and Ms. Erin has be in charge :). If there was a December session, I would have definitely joined, but too bad. Maybe I will join the January session if everything permits. Last but not least, SunYoga rocks!! Keep up the good work!

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Thara Anisha :

It was fun and different learning yoga. Indra and Erin were good instructors, they made the poses feel easier with guidance throughout the weeks. Oh and the food that Indra made were delicious and very mouth watering. Furthermore out of all the sports I have participated in school and etc, not one of them made me sweat as much as yoga. And yoga definitely made me more flexible.

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Farah Hashim :

Wow! Yoga is very interesting! After many years of NO EXERCISE!! This was an amazing choice for a fitness regime.

Initial aches and pains eased into ooh! and aahs!! as the body became more flexible.

Loce the food Indra! Hopefully will be able to purchase future concoctions!! Can't wait for new tasks!!

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Carlmen Then :

- Definitely stronger and leaner arms

- Fun place to work out with a bunch or friendly people and nice 'gung ho' teacher.

Thank you and congrats November challenger

Time flies, seems like it was just just yesterday when we had the demo class for October batch and followed by demo for November batch.

I had an awesome time practicing with you all, the humour, laughter and enjoying every moment of it. The enthusiasm prolonged til the last day, and many making self practice as a must daily from now on, while others making plans to attend regular yoga classes.

Everyone of them who attended the programme had an intention and aim and no two aims are the same. Be it a stepping stone to start your yoga practice, to strengthen and tone, to destress, for peace of mind, joy or love etc, I believe some aim has been met and I am very pleased to know that. You need to start somewhere and I believe the 30-day programme is as effective as it can be, and more.

I will post the November testimonial shortly.

Thank you for taking part and believing in what we are trying to achieve at Sun Yoga.

A little Gathering this sunday 6th Dec

Dear Practitioners and teachers,
after the Nov batch of 30 days yoga challenge, i think its a good time to do some gathering :)

I have organised this sunday 6th dec 10-11am just a little time to meet each other and have a sharing moment. what do you think?

this will be my last chance to catch up with you too, take some pic before leaving on sunday midnite. I hope you can make it.

Im coming back on April for workshop and classes...see you soon!

Sat Nam

Its so fast...

It was a pleasure and a really nice feeling doing 30 days challenge with all practitioners and Erin.
I can't believe that its done! another batch of 30 days!

Its fast...therefore, I remember one of the master says, "Be Present, Watch out! coz time will not repeat" yes its really true!

thank you for everyone putting their efforts and thoughts into the challenge. I hope you can see and be open for any potentials in you. I hope this programme has changed some of your perspective about you and life, giving a little difference in the world today. I hope whatever SunYoga has done so far, will benefit you and others around you.

Personally, I really pushed my moving process till this programme finished. There has been request for me to move to Shanghai sooner, but I really love and would love to finished this programme which is giving me a great joy during these couple of months.

thanks Erin for your sharing and really appreciate whatever you have done to make this programme successful!
Thanks to Jacqualine Koay, my teacher who I can relate and very humble for the sharing and love to others to make differences in the world today. I have learned alot and its time for me to share it with others in other parts of the world, continuing your mission.

Thanks for everyone i know through yoga and sunyoga itself. see you again in KL for another classes, workshops and sharing...

namaste

Namaste - Day 14,15,16,17 & 18

honestly, i feel really guilty for not being able to update this diary as often during the last 5 days. there is a perfectly good reason for that. my work has been super duper hectic, plus i haven't been sitting in front of my computer much as well.

also, during the last few days, silly old me, mistaking the pain on my arms and shoulders as using my muscles during sun salutation, i pulled it instead. rendering both my arms kinda useless after, and not able to do the other poses which uses the arms as well. this is not such an innocent mistake. it is a very common and taken for granted mistake. the lack of preparation and warm-up.

so while my arms are healing, and using more of my legs, i'm going to take this pretty painful lesson as a good smacking for not having good common sense. one of the most important lessons in yoga, good warm-up and awareness of the body.

oh, and pain isn't everything.. it can definitely be detrimental.. i suddenly feel like such a sadist..

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i didn't make it for the morning class, but made it for the evening one. indra had already made my meal in the morning and saved it for me, so i went to pick it up during lunch.

Veggie Kebab

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)

Namaste - Day 11,12 & 13

and again i was super late on Wed & Thurs.

i realised why i've been so tired & exhausted the last 2-3 days. it's a monthly thing. my body starts to breakdown a day or two before my cycle starts. and because my body is still getting used to doing yoga for the last two weeks, i got extra tired. i just couldn't get out of bed this morning, despite already being half awake.

my body is telling me not to push it any further. i've not done any form of real exercise in months (maybe even years), and i'm no spring chicken either.

i used to lie to myself that, yeah, i am exercising what.. i'm dancing in clubs.. counts rite :p
no, dancing in a club does not count for exercise. its not as intense as dancing in a real class for 2-3 hours straight. it can't even compare to my 1 hour of yoga every morning. so therefore, it definitely doesn't count.

no worries, i'll be back and bouncing again in another 2 days..

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meals for the last 2 days :)

we had chickpeas & olive salad and wheatberries & fruits salad

this was really yummy on its own..

but i couldn't help making it into a wrap.

a chickpea & salad with yogurt dressing chapati wrap..

*drooling while thinking about it*

annnnddd my wheatberries & fruit salad

was supposed to wrap this too, but i didn't have time this morning

as i didn't get to go to class this morning, my dearest cousin, who's also in the challenge together with me, dropped it off at my house. thanks yvonne! :)

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)

Namaste - Day 7,8,9 & 10

the last few days has rendered me physically & mentally exhausted. so exhausted that i couldn't wake up this morning in time, and was super late for class.

i missed the sun salutations, with both regret and relief. regret that i didn't get to do it ritually every morning, but a relief as i don't think i could have sustain the rest of the class if i did.

indra said that it is possible that my body has reached its limit. well, its not time to give up yet. though i was late, it is definitely better than not showing up at all.

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today's meal :)

Salsa Hummus Wrap

absolutely yummy!! *slurp*

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)

Congrats October Challenger and Hello November Challenger

I have an enjoyable time going through the 30-day challenge with the October challenger. I don't take it being me as an instructor teaching a class, but more like us doing our practice together. I am still learning and every feedback I receive deepen my quest to do more.

The October challenge open up some of the practitioners, knowing that nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it. And make time for it ;)

At some point of time, we still have that little bit of ourselves to deal with, but when you take a step forward, you have already succeed 50%.

I look forward to learning more from each other and our practice together with the November batch.

See ya in class!!

Namaste - Day 5 & 6

oh gosh! i almost forgot that i've got a yoga diary to update :)

going through the motions for the last two days at class, i realised that i'm moving into poses easier, and stretching alot better. throughout the rest of the day my body feels lighter, and i'm beginning to have a tendency to stretch those major muscles that are stationary due to office work ever so often.

one of the moments that i feel proud about during this challenge is being able to wake up early to go for the classes. i used to think i have mild insomnia as i'm unable to sleep at night, tossing and turning till the wee hours of the morning before i actually get some 20 winks before waking up in a heavy daze for work. thus, afraid that i wouldn't be able to uphold the challenge.

but for the last 6 days, as i've spent quite alot of energy during class in the morning, and just going through the motions at work, by the time 10.30pm comes, i'm tired and sleepy enough to doze off. resulting to rising early in the morning and off to class.

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during relaxation today, while erin told us to go to a comfortable place, i couldn't help thinking of teresa and her proposal for this challenge. and all these thoughts ran through my head...

"accept for my own mother, no one knows me better than her. in a way, we're like mirror images - as much alike as we are, we can also be the opposite of each other. for example, her childish excitement where at times amuses me, most of the time frustrates me.. i'm the calm sort who keeps an image of a cool cat. and yet, when i let myself go, when my inner child appears, i can too annoy myself with my own childish excitement.

i've always been a slow person when it comes to following or practicing a trend, or even being a fan something / someone. with teresa, its the same thing. while we practically almost have the same taste in everything, my interest thens to take slower and smaller baby steps towards it. take yoga, for instance. it took me more than 7 years after teresa has pursued it to pique an interest at it, though i've only admired it from a distance, and that was with encouragement as well as being challenged into it.

when initially, during my younger days, where i was the subject of admiration between us sisters, i find that i admire her even more seeing she has accomplished so much in the practices of humanity and passion. her spiritual calling is so much stronger than mine, as i've strayed so far away... time to re-adjust my path.."

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)

Namaste - Day 3 & 4

the last two days has been extra painful as i was stretching muscles and using joints which i've not used in a long long time or as regularly.

don't get me wrong. it's not a torture chamber. in fact, it got me thinking of how bad my posture has been, and how wrongly i've been using my muscles. as a former dancer, i've taken all these for granted and have turn to the 'dark' side.

it will get better in time, and with practice, it won't hurt as much anymore. practice makes perfect, increasing confidence and reducing fear.

talking about fear, i had difficulty doing one of the poses cause i was afraid to push my shoulders down and place my chin on the floor. a few times i either plopped and laid flat on my stomach or hit my chin on the mat.

eventually, after about 30 tries, i finally managed it.

here is erin showing us how to do it..

another position that is supposed to be a relaxing position, but still feels like alot of pain for me is the downward dog.

this is not how it should be done.

as u can see, i have my heels up. but with my current flexibility and strength, this is the best i can do. i also have my elbows hyper-extended, where as it should be slightly bent and not locked in.

eventually, my downward dog should look like this.

flat foot, rounded elbows & shoulders, with a nice flat & firm tummy..

~namaste~

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)

Light Vegetarian Healthy Meals for 2nd week of challenge

Dear participants in the challenge,
here is the list of meals you can order for next week:

Monday: Dragon fruit smoothies RM5/glass
Tuesday: Salsa Hummus Wrap RM6/box
Wednesday: Chickpea olive watercress salad RM6/box
Thursday: Tropical fruits smoothies RM5/glass
Friday: Organic Wheatberries Fruits salad RM7/box
Saturday: Dragon fruit smoothies RM5/glass
Sunday: Tropical fruits smoothies RM5/glass

Notes:
- All meals and drinks has to be ordered 1 week ahead and paid fully
- Please returning the boxes the next day for recycling purpose
- Do let Indra know if you have any special diet e.g. luctose intolerance, any allergic conditions etc

May this will support your practice

Namaste

October's challengers feedback

Dear Friends, enjoy the feedbacks. Namaste


Feez:
- Thank you Erin, Indra and Jacqualine! The programme was excellent, very possible the best thing I’ve done all year. I’m not the kind who follows things through, I’m much better at starting things than finishing them. However, you guys gentle tutelage and dedication to what you do has really done something to me!
- My objectives were met, expectations exceeded! Will be singing at wedding on the 6th, will let you know how that goes (Indra your voice is very rich, sweet and beautifulJ) I definitely feel more balanced and less creaky.
- I feel as though I have fresh perspective, it’s like a fresh pair of eyes and now movement is something I’m so aware of. Simply appreciating sitting up straight, walking with and (hopefully) balance step.
- It’s brought many surprises as well. We have gotten more in touch with friends, colleagues, and they notice the difference in me. I got to work an HOUR EARLY and I don’t feel tired until bedtime then I sleep like a baby!
- Yes Yoga is the awesomest. Again, thank you so much for inparting your wisdom, yoga philosophy and lifestyle in general. It’s life changing. Epic!


Kit:
- I used to have a back pain when I wake up in the morning, I don’t have back pain now!
- 30 days programme a great idea for beginners. Although I missed quite a few classes I did feel I’m able to execute poses that I did not think I could. Certainly I could feel more flexibility in my body
- Don’t think I lost any weight or inches! Not sure if body is more tone too. I guess it will take a couple more months
- I have never sweated so much in my life! I guess I got rid of my toxins too!
- Great teachers (Indra, Erin, Jackie)
- Timing not suitable for me (too early in the morning and too late in the evening)

Izanie:
- The 30 days Yoga Challenge for me has been about “mind over matter” It was tough in the beginning because of all the getting up early and gaining the consistency. The first week you feel tired and shiff but once you pass that you will settle into a routine, your body adjust and you start feeling good about yourself.
- Thanks to Indra and Erin for all the hard work, support and motivation. I wouldn’t have made it through without your encouragement and energy. You both make Sun Yoga a truly special place.
- I have also enjoyed all the yummy food and drinks too! My favorites are the salsa wrap, wheatberry salad, chickpeas salad and veggie kebab. Hmm…maybe time you open a Soul Not Bucks Café full time? Thanks to chef Indra!

Narina:
A very educational 30 days. I enjoyed myself thoroughly and found the ability to challenge myself to go a little further everytime

Indira Sundram:
I’ve enjoyed every moment with each of you

Harinder Kaur:
Thanks to SunYoga (especially Erin and Indra). You guys done a great job for me – to feel so great – body, mind and soul too!
My body is toned and I feel to have more strength and energy. I’m too like my arms!
30 days yoga challenge is a really great program and its highly recommended to all. Yoga is the way to go!!

Ee Lin:
- The day after my first class, my arms were terribly sore and it was torture when you keep repeating the motions that used the very some muscles. Keeping still on the mat during a downward dog was a challenge when your hands keep slipping forward.
- Into the third week, I felt stronger, the execution of the poses improved (except for a few crowd “favourite” poses like the “dolphin”) and the mat slipping only occurred the third/fourth set of “warrior B”
- On the whole, I feel refreshed and the 30 days challenge is certainly a good start on working on one of your many resolutions you never kept to.
- the 30 days yoga challenge is suitable if you find that you can never stick to a regime for long and never quite see through any good your set to the end. Its power packed for a “do-able” 30 days only! A colleague once said “A good without execution is hallucination”

Feedback: our bodies aren’t always at their best everyday so letting up a little one or two classes during the 30 days challenge would be refreshing and welcomed.

Pooi Lam:
- Breaking up into sessions of 20 seconds is good = more achievable
- As the days go by, suggest reducing verbal briefing for each step to let us learn to be more independent so we can do at home
- Definitely stronger and more toned up now, well worth the effort
- RM300 too cheap
- Indra’s food is yummy and a great motivation to attend class J

Yvonne Lim:
- Thank you very much to all teachers at SunYoga. I love the vegetarian meal and smoothies and my back is not that pain now.
- Now, I find that doing yoga everyday is not that “impossible” J thank you so much!

Alice:
- Feels lighter, a bit more flexible
- A particular joint pain vanished
- Added wrist, knee and elbow pains J
- A good fellowship as everyone talks about one common aspect, i.e pain from doing yoga and the person will always have remedies and ideas on how to overcome it
- May be jamming session should not be conducted right after class. Give about half to an hour time frame between the two activities as it is extremely distracting due to loud talking/laughing and incessant walking in and out between entrance and kitchen

Caryn:
- First 2 weeks quite confusing as Erin and Indra taught different things but after Indra clarified the different poses it was easier to follow
- Very happy that I lost 4 kg..yohoo!!!
- Can manage the dolphin pose without the bandage now ha! ha!
Thank you Erin and Indra!

Eke:
This 30 days Yoga Challenge has got me back on track to a fitness and healthy living. Yahoo!
These are the changes that has improved and now I love the new me, well same old me but with a tighter and healthier body J
- Definitely more flexible. Can bend with case
- Stamina has improved could do my 10Km run with one panting. It was steady and I managed good timing for it
- Flabby areas are more toned
- Cab fit into my old clothes. Don’t feel like I have to squeeze into them anymore
- Don’t feel bloated anymore. BONUS!
- More conscious of what I eat and definitely try to eat healthy. Thanks to Indra’s yummy dishes even when I go out to eat or do groceries, I only buy healthy ingredients and only once in a while I will have a cheat day to eat some non-healthy goods
- I love that my skin is smoother and hair seems more bouncy. Thanks to the sesame and coconut oils
- My face looks more alive, radiant and the pimples are kept at bay
- Mood is more upbeat and full of energy
- Towards the end of my challenge, got that lazy but still pushed myself not to miss too many classes
- Enjoyed the classes taught by Erin and Indra

Thank you ladies!

PS: Glad you pushed us even though there were days we were lazy especially on those leg lifts and dolphin poses

Namaste - Day 1 & 2

i have 2 perceptions when it comes to yoga.

1. the whole spiritual mambo jambo, convening with the universe, your spirit, through your body, mind and soul stuff.. i'm a person that don't believe in anything, much.. and the thought this scared me a little.

2. there's also the whole fake / poser perception where you have the tai-tai/datin/celebrity doing the yoga thing to be seen and heard. this, i have the same dislike for as the ones who do the same fake / poser thing at clubs. thanks, but no thanks. yoga shouldn't be a social status activity.

both perceptions above, are my stereotypes.. you may think differently.

when i first did yoga with 3sa years ago, yoga for me was more of a stretching exercise class than anything. that was years ago.

yesterday, as i filled in my registration form for the 30-day yoga challenge, the guy who took my registration look at me with a cautious eye and told me that i've got quite alot of injuries. here's the list :
a) old injuries (all on right side) - sprained / twisted ankle, sprained hip, broken cartilage @ knee, broken collar bone, deformed shoulder blade, broken wrist. all healed but can't be stressed so much on without protection

b) back problems - recovering from major whiplash on upper back (both shoulders) due to a car accident last year & sprained lower back due to stupidity manual labor 5 years ago.

after yesterday's re-introduction class, i was bursting with energy the whole day and by 10.30pm at nite, my energy was well spent and called it a night.

today's class, however, left me feeling lethargic about 3 hours after i entered work. or maybe i'm just having a much busier morning than usual without a chance to actually reflect.

when 3sa and i first spoke about this challenge, she mentioned that i would be going in with alot more physical challenges. she also said that while yoga is about the body & mind, i would be more mentally affected than physical. at this point, until i can calm my mind while doing the poses instead of thinking "breathe, breathe, breathe" or "stretch! ouch! pain!" its physical..

the only message i'm getting mentally is, "don't give up!" and "don't fall from / lose hope!".

i realise i need yoga. i need it so i can recover, so i can stretch and be more flexible again, so i can lose weight and most importantly, so i can dance again without worries. "no pain, no gain" they say..

giving starbucks a run for their money :D

(posted by Aw Li-Ann)