Latest Writings
December 21, 2021
Quiet contemplations on the Winter Solstice...
As I looked out to my city garden the other morning, a tiny humming bird found the one remaining geranium flower. Yes, the white petals had seen better days but the hummingbird was still very happy to hover over the petals. As the leaves in my garden wither and fade and as the weather gets colder, and in Vancouver quite a bit wetter, I love to draw inward and reflect. The days are short at this time of year, but we consider this the season of light and brightness as we shift back to days getting longer. I like to remind myself of this brightness.
A few weeks back I returned to my other home, New England, for US Thanksgiving. Despite being surrounded by my family, I also had many moments of quiet contemplation. I found myself on top of a rocky ridge surrounded by New Hampshire’s purple and white hued hills. The quietness from the peak contrasted the whipping icy cold New England wind. I found myself sitting in the old wooden pew of the church in New Hampshire's White Mountains where I spent many a holiday. Sitting in the deep quiet, I found that there is something very powerful as you sit in any place of worship, a place considered sacred where people have prayed and connected inward for many, many, many years. Years back when I was in London on a cold and rainy day, I found myself at the doors of a huge cathedral. I meandered inside to the quiet cauldron of a space and was surrounded by ancient stone, stained glass windows, the scent of frankincense and incense and deep quiet. I did not know the denomination of the church but there was a deep sense of profound peace, so I sat in the stillness for quite some time enjoying the warmth of the huge cathedral.
Stillness and deep peace are everywhere if we slow down and listen. Back east over Thanksgiving, I found myself walking through many New England woods usually with one of my family members. These woods are quite different from the West Coast woods. The deciduous leaves have all fallen and crunched under my feet as we wandered through hardwood forests past one large King Pine and many maple, oak and birch trees. Without any leaves on the trees, New England forests are very bright and the sun filters through. The wind also whips through these forests as there is no protection from the elements. This coldness however is contrasted by the fallen leaves and pine needles which create a lovely soft carpet of warmth for our feet. Some of these walks were fast brisk walks and some of these walks have been slower as an honour to some of my elders who might move more slowly these days. Sometimes the walks were quieter and the sounds of mother nature prevail and other times, I have been extra diligent to listen, pay attention and be in the moment as I listen to my elders. On one of these walks, my dad, who is now 84 said, “ age reminds me to be in the moment.” It really does not get much better than that.
And on another walk with my mother in law who is 80, we enjoyed exploring the bright red berries of the Ilex verticillata and the blue sky against with the yellow leaves of the white bark of the birch tree. The combination of colour was art in itself. These walks were another lovely reminder to be in the moment fully for what it offers and to acknowledge the underlying rhythm of peace that is every so present.
There is so much wonder in the world if we slow down and take time to appreciate the moment. Gratitude moments don’t have to be big powerful epiphanies, they can be the small simple moments that inspire your day. Gratitude moments are everywhere and anywhere if you take a moment to slow down, listen, be aware and see. I invite you this holiday season to find your powerful moments, places and people and immerse yourself in and with them. Happy Holidays from Ashtanga Yoga Vancouver.
Fiona
December 18, 2021
Dear Students,
After much contemplation, in light of the recent increase in the Omicron variant, I have decided to switch to virtual only classes for the next two weeks during the holiday season, effective Monday December 20th.
I have discussed this decision with two doctors who agreed that this was a wise and prudent choice to make given the situation and luckily it is easy for us to switch to virtual only classes over the holidays. I appreciate your incredible flexibility during this time. We can still practice together as a community and hopefully do our part to make a difference.
We will plan to reopen in studio classes on Tuesday, January 4th, depending on how impactful Omicron variant is on our health system.
I am grateful that we have been able to practice as a community virtually and in studio for many months as well as have our visit to VanDusen Gardens and the meditation with Tomo to celebrate the holiday season. We will get through this together in community as we have in the past.
Have a wonderful holiday season! Please reach out if you need anything. See you in virtual class.
Holiday Schedule:
December 20-23rd Virtual Mysore 5:30-9:30am Monday - Thursday
December 24th Virtual Led Primary Series 6am (Chanting 5:40am) Friday
December 25-28 Statutory Holidays - No Classes
December 29-30th Virtual Mysore 6:30-8:30am Wednesday & Thursday
December 31st Virtual Led Primary Series 6am (Chanting 5:40am) Friday
January 1st New Years Day Saturday - No Classes
January 2nd Moon Day Sunday - No Classes
January 3rd Statutory Holiday Monday - No Classes
October 7, 2021
Jimmies
With Canadian Thanksgiving (as I like to call it) approaching, it's time to give thanks. I thought I would share my thoughts on jimmies, which, for me, is about giving thanks and honouring family.
Jimmies: the most popular term for chocolate sprinkles in the Philadelphia and Boston and New England regions. The origin of the name jimmies is uncertain, but it was first documented in 1930, as a topping for cake. Wikipedia
It probably started in March when the weather started getting warmer. As we had entered into our third, unexpected, Covid lockdown, I kept thinking about my extended family. Over dinner, we were reminiscing about our annual summer trips back east. Some of our favourite memories included our annual summer kick-off mini golfing “competition” in Florida after dinner with Granny & Pop Pop, my parents. There was also the annual buffet dinner followed by the 4th of July fireworks overlooking the harbour in Newport, Rhode Island. And of course, there was the family doubles tennis competitions anywhere there was a tennis court. For my kids, our trip back east were the start to summer and family time. Many of these USA adventures finished with the compulsory trip to the ice cream shop. Growing up in New England, ice cream is a summer staple. And as I look back, I have so many fond childhood memories that concluded at an ice cream shop. This is where jimmies comes into play.
Summer arrived in Vancouver and I found myself with my kids in an ice cream store. The big discussion was of course how American ice cream scoops are giant and way cheaper compared to a Canadian scoop! Thinking of my roots, I ordered an ice cream with jimmies. Both my kids looked at me like I was crazy and the woman behind the counter had no idea what I was talking about. My daughter, who now had a job at an ice cream shop, educated me that, "Jimmies do not exist in Canada. There are only rainbow sprinkles and they’re called sprinkles not jimmies!" Google then educates us that jimmies, otherwise known as chocolate sprinkles, are only called jimmies in places like Boston and New England. And this indeed is my home turf.
In the next month, I started craving my American soft serve confection dipped in jimmies. To be honest, this was rather strange as I like ice cream but I am more of a dark chocolate kind of person. Perhaps my craving was about something a bit more profound than jimmies itself. Jimmies, for me, evokes nostalgia to my my roots, where I am from, and summer time adventures with family and loved ones.
We finally made it to New England in late August, to be greeted at the airport by my sister. If you’ve seen the movie “Love Actually,” and remember the airport scene (I may mention that I was in tears in that scene) that was pretty much me. Much to my children’s embarrassment, I let out a very large scream as my sister pulled up to pick us all up. Our hug was long and made up for the 20 months of not hugging. 20 months allows for many inches of growth on a 15 turning 17-year-old boy and a 13 turning 15 year old girl. And in the lifespan of ageing elders, 20 months can mean that family no longer recognizes you. Suddenly parental roles reverse and it becomes our turn to become caregivers for our parents.
At the airport, as I hugged my sister and those tears rolled down my cheeks, I let go of all my strength that I had been using to keep everything together. I felt incredible gratitude for the community here in Vancouver; my small family and my larger yoga family that was a tether for me during these challenging times where my immediate family was not necessarily accessible in person. The community and the practice kept me together, strong and resilient. I recognized that the “studio” even though it was a virtual studio for quite some time, was a sanctuary for my soul and another place to nourish me when my loved ones were far away. A place to breathe and a gift for my soul.
On our New England adventure, we made it to many ice cream parlours and I had my fair share of jimmies. Because of Covid-19, jimmies will always remind me to live in the moment, be grateful and not take things for granted. We could have never expected Covid-19 to be what it was and through these past 20 months I have learned to appreciate, even more, the small moments coated with jimmies. As Thanksgiving arrives over this weekend, what are the sweet jimmies in your life? Acknowledge them. Appreciate them. Find the sweet moments, however simple.
See you in class soon.
Fiona
July 7, 2021
Emergence
When I am practicing outside and am looking up in ekam inhale, the first movement of Surya Namaskara, I recognize that my usual drishti has been enriched these past 15 months as I don my covid coloured glasses. Today's drishti was enhanced by a bald eagle soaring overhead. This past year I learned that there are even more cloud formations that I could have ever possible imagined. I learned that the turbulent, ever changing west coast weather allows for amazing patterns in the sky, each pattern different than the next. I have learned that there are so many shades of blue that make up our daytime skies. I have experienced the massiveness of the world as I balanced upside down in a headstand. I can easily recognize the call of an eagle. I have noticed through my weekly walks that the trails become narrower and narrower as the spring reaches summer and the undergrowth comes alive. Flowers come and go and the formation from buds to leaves is a vibrant explosion of colour and rebirth. I have learned that virtual practices can be powerful places of transformation. I have learned that you can teach online and videos can be powerful learning tools. I have learned that community exists in cyberspace and I have felt immense gratitude for this community! I have appreciated how some meetings are easier held virtually and some are easier held in person! I haven taken more walks this past year than I ever have. I realized why a dog is a person's best friend. These are some of the amazing experiences I have had this past year.
For me, COVID-19 has also been a reminder to return to simplicity and show gratitude even in simple moments. During COVID-19, for me, having tethers of support during the more challenging and darker days was essential. My tethers were the patterns that gave me stability and strength in my life. My tethers were waking up and having my early morning teaching, followed by breakfast with my family and then my morning practice. This ritual, simple as it may be, provided structure and foundation to my day. My practice gave me stability and strength in my soul. Regardless of my physical flexibility or strength that day, regardless of the duration of my practice, the power of the breath was my anchor and the vinyasa of linking breath and movement a powerful pattern that helped me experience that place of midline. The daily repetition made me feel more connected, more intuitive, and more in tune with myself.
Covid-19 invited me to embrace and appreciate the simple things of life like family dinners, watching a student experience something new in a posture and seeing that spark even if it was through a computer screen. Time existed but ceased to exist and sometimes I measured it by watching my children grow and grow and grow. I immersed my self in my city garden and tended my plants and flowers and created new life with visions of these flowers in the studio when we reopened.
In the depths of winter, cross-country skiing with my dog and my husband at my side calmed my nervous system, inspired my writing and filled me with ease and strength. Being in the mountains breathing clean air felt like therapy. Sitting in Deering Lake Park in meditation or practicing to bird sounds and the countless walks with my dog and friends were all simple things. Simple things, yet things that shifted my perspective and made me greatly appreciate all of the gifts in my life.
So I ask you to step back and contemplate. We are emerging from the fog of Covid-19. As we re-emerge and once again are finally able to gather together at the studio and in life, what will you take with you? What will you leave behind? What lessons have you learned? What patterns have supported you in your life and what patterns will you let go of to create space for more useful ones? Enjoy the journey. See you in class soon whether it’s in person or virtually and thanks for the support during these past 15 months!
Fiona
June 10, 2021
AYV Is Reopening June 17th
Dear AYV Community,
After seven months of being closed to reduce the spread of Covid-19, our doors are gradually reopening on Thursday June 17th!
All classes will still continue virtually as we restart our in-studio classes for prescheduled, assigned days and times. The assigned days and times for in-studio practices are almost full at this time with current pass holders due to the very limited capacity available to comply with Covid-19 health protocols.
If you are interested in practicing in person and in our studio, start by attending our virtual classes, and then email us with a preferred practice time and we will see if there is availability, otherwise we will add you to our wait list.
Don't forget to check our our NEW VIDEO page. We have a selection of FREE videos and when you purchase a pass you have access to our full premium selection, which includes tutorials, meditations, guided led classes and much more! Our goal is to create as many options as possible for you to learn about Ashtanga Yoga and join our growing community. We also offer monthly video passes.
Please click on this link to review our Covid-19 protocols on our announcement page.
Please pay special attention to our Returning to Studio Information.
Thanks for all your support over the past seven months while we were closed physically but remained connected.
Fiona
May 15, 2021
My Yoga Retreat with the Birds
At the beginning of April, I moved my practice back to the yoga studio. It was not a purposeful choice. I was simply showing the space to a potential renter one morning and stayed for my practice. I thought to myself, "this beautiful space is sitting here empty so why wouldn’t I practice here?" The room still carries prana and a feeling of calm and peace. I also think, deep down, I had always thought things would be more “normal” come April so back to the studio I went. Just this subtle change inspired and re-invigorated my practice. I would log in with my phone to Saori’s encouraging presence in the zoom class. Over the next few weeks, I would bring in in my favourite rich red flowers that fall from a blooming tree at the end of my street and I placed them on Lakshmi’s open palms on the windowsill. Thus began the return to Shala solo ritual. And there were no dust balls under the sofa and no children asking for breakfast like I experienced during my home practices. This subtle shift reinvigorated my practice and even inspired more videos (check out our new video page)!May has arrived and the shala is still closed. These past couple of weeks I found myself taking weekly walks down at Southlands. The deciduous leaf trees remind me of my childhood and the bird songs are incredible; nature’s symphony in all her glory. There is nothing like being surrounded by an orchestra of birds and the occasional geese and ducks. One morning, after my usual school drop off, I spontaneously drove to Southlands and decided I would practice outside. I always have a yoga mat in my car so I ventured down the gravelly paths and found a secluded spot on Deering Island that was mainly hidden from the main path. I was practicing on the grass, surrounded by trees on one side and the Fraser River on the other. Ekam inhale started my practice with my mini phone screen zooming in front of me with Saori’s presence. Technology does has it's perks! In all my years of yoga, I could probably count on one hand or maybe two how many times I have practiced outside. The outside practices were mainly when my children were young, we were on holiday and I had no solo time so I would let them run around a playground as I practiced in the background. We all know that Covid has switched patterns and our "normals" so there I was practising on my mat in Southlands with the birds. In that moment surrounded by the symphony of Mother Nature, I realized I had created my own Covid yoga retreat on Zoom, in Saori's class, surrounded by bird sounds and nature.
I repeated this retreat pattern all week, logging in and attending Saori’s classes from my "retreat" location. My “retreat” comes with an additional closing meditative walk through the well worn pathways many times travelled by horses and dogs. I enjoyed being shown by a passerby a hummingbird’s nest and revelled in the bird’s symphony that constantly surrounded me.
Essentially, I created my own mini “retreat” and changed things up. For me, practicing outside was different and novel. When I would twist, I noticed a new pattern in the clouds as they mixed with the blue of the sky. My drishti was interrupted by a small bug that was crawling near my mat. My first practice spot was uneven and created a strong strong need to use my roots and anchor my feet creating a Super Bandha leg practice. I learned that gravel works great if you practice w a cotton mat underneath your rubber mat. I experienced how bird song brings me even deeper into the stillness of my practice and, for me, induces a calmer state. I love headstand surrounded by blue sky. I felt inspired to sit longer. Basically, I created something different to reinvigorate my soul during this time.
Lately, I have received more emails from students hinting at Covid Burn Out, increased anxiety, stress levels or difficulties with sleep. I know I feel some of these things myself. If you are experiencing any of these things, know that you are not alone. I handled this burn out by spontaneously treating myself to a nourishing little retreat by the Fraser River. Things are in flux and Covid has shaken the snow in our once calm snow globe. Through my “retreat,” I was able to remind myself that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
If you are feeling some burn out, treat yourself to some kind of "retreat." And it can be something quite simple. I have noticed that students have been changing their camera angles in the past month. Change your practice angle, find a new room to practice in your home, create an altar and put fresh flowers on it, do some gardening even if it is in a pot in your living room, or as I did, retreat to the woods and surround yourself by bird sounds. Commit to a ten minute walk in nature every day. Drink more water. Start each practice with an inspiring passage. Give yourself little gifts to resource your soul. Create a new pattern. It is amazing how small things can shift our perspective and these shifts can be so refreshing and liberating.So keep at it. Show up on your mat. Be grateful for where we are and our health. And know that you are not alone. And when you need to, change the pattern and create a new perspective.
Fiona
February 22, 2021
Tethers
I spent some of the past month in quiet moments of contemplation, usually post practice or deep within the woods on x-country skis. One theme that kept repeating in my mind was the word “tether.” Recently I have been asking myself, ‘what are the tethers in my life that resource me and help me stay connected to my midline?’
For me, I think of tethers as connections to my soul - something that connects me to my essence and leaves me resourced and empowered. Tethers keep us vibrating at a high level so we can face our life with equanimity and grace. Given the current climate, and the one year anniversary of Covid-19, it’s a time to dig deep, understand and rely on our tethers to create positivity in our lives.
So I ask you, What are your tethers?
I will share some of my more powerful tethers with you.
One tether for me is relationships within my community. It seems as if we are all fostering our tethers of community during this time of isolation where connection in physical form is limited and rare. Isolation makes this tether even more essential in this Covid-19 era. There are many communities of relationship in my life: my immediate family, my extended family and friends and the yoga community. Relationships are a constant force of connection to my heart and soul. For me, Covid-19 has been a time to reinforce these relationships in my life and be grateful for them. So far, in the past year, I have missed three trips “back home” (as I still call it) to New England to connect with my extended family. So I have learned to keep the connection in different ways. I like to remind myself that connection does not have to be a big event but it can be symbolic little moments of connection: daily texts to my sister; more frequent chats with my parents; more frequent calls to my in-laws; these are just a few ways I have been reaching out. Locally in Vancouver, I have made extra efforts to go for masked walks with close friends and teachers. And within my family, as my babies have turned to teenagers, I take whatever time my kids will give me. A few Sundays ago, my son took “me” skiing and guided me down some double black diamond runs in waist deep powder. And on Family Day, once again, I was “guided” down the mountain. How the roles have reversed from the days they followed me down the hill. Making time for family dinners, which always involve hilarious conversations, is an essential part of our daily time where we get together and connect. Simple pleasures. They do not need to be extravagant but just moments of connection to celebrate relationships and love. Right now I am making an extra effort to cultivate these tethers of community, relationship and family as they give me strength in my day to day life. Even if the connections are done virtually, they are still connections and give me strength.
And of course, there is the tether of community within Ashtanga Yoga Vancouver. I had two weeks off in December where I had my first long break from teaching since Covid-19 began. I remember feeling so excited to get back to my community in early January. I missed you all! Even having a longer family weekend as I took a Friday off, I was really excited to “reconnect” with everyone, even if remotely! These connections, of course, in the era of Covid-19, are different as the “seeing” is held virtually. But nonetheless, my excitement to arrive in the morning and “see” everyone is a powerful moment of gratitude for me. The waves and smiles on the screen before or after practice are meaningful. The dancing princess and energetic dogs bring me laughs. As we have moved to a virtual yoga world, my community relationships have shifted from hands on adjustments to verbal cues, mini videos when applicable and countless emails. However I continue to cultivate and nourish this tether of relationships and community.
Another great tether in my life relates to my greater purpose, which for me is yoga. What is your great purpose in life? For me, this tether of yoga encompasses sharing yoga with others in community as well as being a student of yoga. The two are co-dependent. My purpose starts each morning from a Zoom screen where I witness a virtual world of mindfulness, awareness, strength and nowadays, virtual breath! The Zoom classes are one of my newer tethers in this latest reality. I am nourished by “showing up” to this community as you all still “show up” despite Covid-19! This tether of purpose also encompasses my love of sharing this practice, my love of yoga, inner reflection, faith, and devotion. Teaching gives me great purpose and it is an essential part of who I am and thus, teaching, for me, is a tether in my life. It nourishes my soul and strengthens my being.
You may notice that at the end of my teaching shift, it sometimes gets a bit noisy in my household. When I finish teaching, my family is up and we all have breakfast together and get ready for school. My practice comes a while later around 9 after both kids are dropped off at school and settled. My daily practice gives me the foundation from which to teach as practice is my platform of experience and midline. Without practice, I would not have the tools from which to teach. My yoga practice is a balm for my mind and a tether to my soul. Although form changes and postures come and go, the constant of the breath allows my nervous system to relax and takes me to a very quiet and introspective place deep within. There is something so powerful and healing when I follow my breath. With each breath, stresses in my life seem to release their grip and I can see them as separate from the strength of my inner being. My practice is a tether to my soul.
Another tether, which is essential for me, is nature. This, in fact, is where many of these entries are born deep within the forest. At some point on my journey through the woods, I usually step to the side of the trail to let the words flow by voice dictation into my iPhone. These moments in nature connect me to the deeper parts of awareness in my soul. For me, being surrounded by fresh air, stillness and quiet is healing and quiets my mind on so many levels.
So I ask you to delve deep during this time and I invite you to ask yourself what are your tethers that resource your soul? After this epidemic is over, what will you take with you and what tethers will remain as a source of foundation in your life? This is a powerful time to create or acknowledge your tethers in life. These tethers are your foundation when you are feeling stressed or anxious or under resourced. It is important to make these tethers a priority in our lives. Keep cultivating daily patterns that reinforce your tethers. With the daily effort, you will feel the support and foundation during the more challenging times.
As we sit in the depths of winter, resource yourself in your tethers and your practice. And remember, by practice, I am talking about showing up, listening and being aware. Short practices, long practices, stiff practices, flexible practice… it does not matter. Just being aware and giving yourself the gift of moments to resource your soul. That is a true practice and it supersedes form. Please reach out if you need support. If you cannot make our virtual classes, feel free to email me and I will support you in practice in other creative ways. Stay in touch. Our community is here for you!
Fiona
January 11, 2021
Hi AYV students!
Just a quick update for you all regarding the provincial regulations that were announced this past Thursday.
Dr. Henry has extended the current provincial restrictions until February 5th. The provincial guidelines and restrictions for our style of yoga can be interpreted in different ways and puts us in a grey area. Regardless, with the new guidelines, we can only fit four students in our studio. We have come so far as a community, finding ways to practice safely together. With the vaccine rollout occurring as we speak, I am confident we will be able to safely open again in the future. However, to err on the side of caution and to continue to support the provincial efforts to stop the spread of Covid-19, I have decided to keep the AYV studio closed for this upcoming period.
I am hoping that because of our vigilance and collective efforts, numbers will reduce and we will be able to resume classes with more than four students in the space at a time. (The new guidelines are asking for increased spaces between practitioners).
I know this may be hard news but rest assured, we are continuing our online classes and we are here for you! Please reach out if you need any support. As teachers, we are all finding unique and creative ways to share yoga in this new reality.
Join us for practice! Long practices, short practices, stiff practices and flexible practices are all welcome!!! Or just sun salutation practices! Join the community. We are here to support you.
Remember we have weekly meditations Tuesday at 730pm and guided deep relaxations Thursday at 730pm led by Tomo.
This is the time to resource yourself through practice. Stay healthy and safe! Please reach out if you need anything.
Fiona and AYV
December 31st, 2020 - Happy New Year!
AYV Students:
Happy New Year!
What a year it has been! This year has made us show up in so many ways and practice our yoga off the mat. This year has required patience, flexibility, strength, grace, resilience and so much more. This has been a year to take the lessons from our yoga practice and bring them into our daily lives! As you reflect back on this year, be grateful for the silver linings and acknowledge all the strength and resilience you cultivated during this challenging time.
Take a moment to set your intentions for 2021 - something that you envision for your upcoming year. Let this vision tether you to your core beliefs.
Find a place that nourishes you whether it’s inside your house or perhaps out in nature. Take a few breaths, clear your mind, and then let the intention flow. What are some of your aspirations for 2021? What do you want to create for yourself in 2021? Breathe and let your intention sink deeply into your soul and, if you like, write down your intentions and share them to others to help manifest them.
Happy New Year! "See" you on the mat soon!
Fiona
December 20, 2020 - Happy Solstice Eve!
AYV Students:
These are some of the darker days of the year, but the solstice reminds us that the light is coming and the days will start getting longer. When I finished teaching my 6am led class on Friday, I looked outside and it was still dark. Yet in the darkness, we have the lights of Hanukkah, Christmas, and the past lights of Diwali all reminding us that this light is always there. So hunker down, arrive on your mat and tap into the breath and drishti.
It’s been quite a nine months on so many levels. I’ve seen the studio close, re open, close and have revisited countless updates on the Covid-19 pandemic. But admidst all this change there is a constant and it is the breath. It’s always there. It ebbs and flows like the water at the shoreline. We can tap into the breath and resource our body & mind simply by following it, being aware and observing. There have been ups and downs and harder and easier moments during this pandemic, but the breath can be a constant, a resource to bring our nervous system back into stillness, alignment and midline.
I am grateful for this community. Thank you. It has been nine months of Covid-19, and as a community, you have been showing up. Still practicing and still showing up in whatever way speaks to your spirit whether it’s virtually, in person or at home. Your commitment inspires me and I look forward to the early mornings witnessing your dedication as you arrive on your mats in person, virtually or in your home but always connected to us. Thank you.
As the end of 2020 arrives, draw inward and reflect on gratitude. 2020 has been full of difficult surprises and has forced us to be flexible, strong and graceful amidst change. Focus on the silver linings within the darkness. Write them down if you like or store them in your mind but keep the gratitude flowing and then pass this gratitude on to others. This is the season of giving and the time to celebrate the light within the darkness.
There are many silver linings for me so I will share my AYV silver linings! Thank you for your dedication. It’s been an inspiration for me. Just seeing you all continue to show up after nine challenging months of change and flux inspires me. Connecting with students who are only able to attend virtually has been life changing. Never would I have thought it possible but it is and from far away, you have all integrated and are part of our community. I love having our expanded community in the early mornings all sharing together. And for me, covid and virtual teaching has allowed me to be a householder, mom of two teenagers and actually teach more since I do not have to be at the physical studio for some of the classes. This is probably the most I have been able to teach since having children and it has been so nourishing for my soul. These are my AYV silver linings. I know the times are hard but find your grateful moments and don't forget to give thanks for even the small simple things.
Have an amazing holiday and I look forward to seeing you in 2021. To a new year and new beginnings!
Fiona
December 7, 2020
AYV will continue with Virtual Only classes.
Holiday Sangha - December 14th at 6pm
Hi AYV students!
Just a quick update for you all regarding the provincial regulations that were announced on December 7th. See the announcement here.
Dr. Henry has extended the current provincial restrictions until January 8th. This communication calls for yoga studios to remain closed. To support these efforts to stop the spread of Covid-19, AYV will remain closed. I know this may be hard news but rest assured, we are continuing our online classes and we are here for you!
Join us for practice! Long practices, short practices, stiff practices and flexible practices are all welcome!!! Or just sun salutation practices! Join the community. We are here to support you.
We also have our Holiday Sangha on December 14th at 6pm. We will chant, meditate, move, and there will be a Ganapathi Arati. All details are on the AYV online schedule page under December 14th. Join us to celebrate as a community.
Stay healthy and safe! Please reach out if you need anything.
Fiona and AYV
November 28, 2020
AYV will continue with Virtual Only classes.
Hi AYV students!
Just a quick update for you all. It was another roller coaster week for everyone. On Tuesday, after reopening for a couple days, fitness centres, including yoga studios, were asked to close again. We continue to follow this protocol and are hoping that the numbers turn around soon. We are still waiting for the provincial government to update the Covid-19 guidelines for yoga studios. We will remain closed until at least December 7th. We will continue to watch the numbers and watch for any updates from the government. In the meantime, we hope you can join our virtual classes. Please reach out if you need any support. We are here for you.
On Monday, December 14th at 6pm (moon day), we will have a virtual holiday gathering with chanting, meditation, movement and more. Stay tuned for more details.
Stay healthy and safe!
Fiona and AYV
November 21, 2020
AYV remains virtual only until 29th November.
It has been great to see many of you online attending the virtual classes. There was over thirty students Friday morning in the led primary series class from all over North America including Eastern Canada, Boston, New Jersey, Florida, Penticton, Calgary, Vancouver Island and of course the Vancouver crew. It’s been such a joy during this time to connect with you all. It brings brightness to my day! Who would have known that online classes could bring us all together.
Dr. Henry has given approval for most fitness centres to reopen. Although I am confident we have done everything we can to create a safe place to practice, we are waiting for updated Covid protocols for the fitness industry. It is unclear, what, if any, additional steps the fitness sector needs to take to be compliant. To be honest, it’s a bit confusing. To err on the side of caution, we will continue to monitor the situation for this week and continue with online classes in hopes of opening next week on December 1st (after the moon day on Monday 30th).
I will follow up in a week with an update. In the meantime, join our community on zoom.
If you have any questions about your yoga practice, reach out to me by email. We are all here to support you! Stay healthy and safe!
Fiona and AYV
November 2020
Ebbing and Flowing
I woke up to a winter wonderland in Whistler. It was such a lovely surprise. If you don’t know this about me, I absolutely love snow. You also might not know that I am not a full born and bred Canadian. I have never endured a winter in Alberta, Quebec or the Yukon. I grew up in New England about an hour from New York City. There were not many snow days in Connecticut and it never snowed enough for me. For that reason, I ventured north for university in search of more snow and nature. I loved spending time in the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire, hiking, biking and skiing.
The snow this morning in Whistler reminds me of the natural ebbs and flows that take place in our lives. After teaching led class in the morning (from Whistler virtually), I had so much energy. I wrote emails to some students and felt so inspired from the led class and chanting from my early rise of 4:40 am. My energy was ABUNDANT and I embraced it. To be honest, this was the first time all week I felt like I had energy! For me, it has been a lower energy week up until today. Maybe it was the snow that caused the shift? I will never know.
Practice so far up until that snowy day were pretty much sun salutations and standing. Today, my practice felt more “normal”, and I flowed through with breath and strength. Whereas, previously, all week my practices would start and then were shortened to meditation and sitting when my physical body was not cooperating and simply saying “no.” Things did not feel quite right in my physical body. My core was flickering on and off and I was just generally exhausted.
So it was interesting to be on my mat this morning and to feel “normal.” For me, this was a nice reminder that practice ebbs and flows and there is no "normal." It’s important to show up regardless without expectations and also without judgement. In practice, it’s important to listen to your body as it speaks to you through this ebbing and flowing…The old me, twenty years ago, would have pushed through practice this week and postures would have been more forced and mindless. But this week, I showed up and I listened. I practiced less asanas and more meditation. I rested more, listened to more guided relaxations and meditations. I ate well. I slept when I needed. I resourced myself. My practices looked very different to the eye but most importantly, I showed up. Regularity is key in practice just as listening is key. And this listening gave me the energy to hang out with my kids in the afternoon and cook dinners and enjoy family meals together. Twenty years ago, I didn’t have to persevere through French homework, put thought into placing teenage pleasing meals on the dinner table or navigate the emotional well being of two teens. In that phase of my life, I could push more. If I pushed more this week, I would have been too exhausted to be present in my life with my family and my responsibilities as a householder. Life is about balance and practice should help us understand the concept of balance and how to resource ourselves. Sometimes there is no plan, except to show up. So I invite you, as the days become shorter and darker, to show up daily but also show up and listen, be aware and honour your self. Let this be your mantra. The yogi is the listener, the one who strives to find the midline, the place between two extremes. Be mindful and use your practice as a resource to heal yourself so you can go out in the world with an equal combination of strength, grace, and fluidity.
Fiona
October 2020
Silver Linings - Puppies, Cats, Dogs, and Babies
There are moments in our lives where we need to inhale and exhale fully and immerse ourselves in the sensation of the moment. With autumn well underway, the days are getting shorter and in Vancouver, wetter and darker. This morning when the paper star lights at the studio turned off (auto timer), I turned them back on. It was still dark outside! At this time of year, it can be easy to spiral down the rabbit hole of darkness. Add in COVID-19, wildfires, politics, racism, family far away and unreachable with closed borders, and a whole new feeling of uncertainty in these times and the tunnel down the rabbit hole can be quite dark.
If you had told me a couple years ago that I would be teaching virtual online yoga classes, I would have laughed. If you had told me that I would suggest a student watch a video to help them understand a yoga posture better, I also would have laughed. But these are all things that are happening in our new reality teaching ashtanga in the era of COVID-19.
COVID-19 has forced me out of my bubble of regularity and what I thought life was, what it should be and what “I know.” We have all been exposed to new ways of living. As I was teaching a virtual led class one Friday, with a screen full of students in front of me, at the end of the class, a couple dogs started running around the room, and an adorable puppy named Cha Cha was jumping up and down over his human mother. Two young toddler twins were hugging their mom. A cat was nicely passed out on the side of one practitioner’s mat. On some mornings a big golden retriever puppy loves to get right on top of his human mom as she practices and he wags his tail with so much love. After all classes, it is the smiles at the end, the comments of gratitude, the feeling that we have connected to something peaceful and calm in our changing world, while the morning light filters into the room. This brings much joy to my heart. These are the moments that I like to capture in my mind and plant deep inside. I keep them in my mind to tap into when I need those moment of peace, love, light and simple joy. These are silver linings in this time. Small, simple moments where the amount of joy you feel is exponential. Small simple moments where joy is present.
In times like these, it’s important to find the silver lining in moments. Even as a mother of two teenagers, a silver lining moment for my family is when we all sit down for a family dinner and connect. It is when my daughter snuggles up next to me with a laptop and we watch a teen movie on Netflix. It is when we end up in a fit of hysterics over a funny story or when we are all singing at the top of our lungs in the car while on a family road trip through the Rockies. These are the moments that propel us with a positive attitude to move forward in our lives with strength, with grace and with a sense of midline. They don’t have to be HUGE profound moments. Simple, small moments count too and are just as important.
As Thanksgiving approaches, I encourage you to find and acknowledge your silver linings. During these days of autumn, where the hours of light are slowly disappearing as we inch towards the winter solstice, notice your silver lining moments and hold them tight. Recall them when you need a lift, a moment of lightness. Remember, they do not have to be long drawn out hours of joy, but instead they might just be a short burst of community, connection, a laugh at the dinner table, or puppies running around a virtual yoga class! I know when I look back on this time of COVID-19 and all the changes that have occurred, I will remember cross country skiing with my dog and two teenagers when we were on lockdown. I will remember the puppies, newborn babies in class, the twin toddlers, and the smiles at the end of class when everyone waves goodbye. I will remember the dahlia’s, geraniums, and hydrangea’s in my garden and evening dinners on my patio. These are the moments of life that I will file away in my gratitude box. Be grateful for the silver linings, acknowledge them, and give thanks when they arrive.
Fiona
September 30, 2020
Reflections on Fall
As we approach fall, I always feel the shift. At 4:40am, the world is now dark and there is a chill to the air. The bright and colourful summer flowers shift to oranges and browns. The greenery bordering my favourite hiking trails begins to show hues of autumn reds, golds and yellows and there is a smell of decaying leaves in the air. Many of the wildflowers that graced the edges of the path have browned and are returning to the earth.
I feel this seasonal “back to school” shift every year, despite the fact that I haven’t been in school for over a couple of decades. For me, this energy is usually felt as a tightening in my belly - a feeling of jumping into the unknown. I always laugh at myself wondering why, after over 25 years since I was in school, I still get the “back to school” nerves. This shift signifies the end of summer and the transition into autumn and into new beginnings - a reentry of sorts. This energy is felt universally on so many levels with so many children are moving forward and making their way into another school year.
This year is even more transitional as there is more uncertainty than usual. Spring of 2020 arrived with the news of COVID-19 lockdown. And from spring, this continued into summer and from summer, this continues into the fall. This is our third season that we are living in a new reality that is full of uncertainty. I now carry a handful of masks in my purse and do not think twice about putting them on as I enter into a shop. I naturally stand away from people in lines. These are all becoming new habitual patterns as if this is how life always has been. Yet uncertainty is in the air.
As a yoga practitioner, can we use the skills we have learned on the mat to help us in these transitions?
Our yoga practice invites us to keep ourselves in the moment and be aware of the present, of this moment, and in this very day.
Swami Nirmalanda describes how if you take care of the present the future will take care of itself.
Now is the time to take care of the present, to be mindful, aware, and to resource ourself so we are strong and can approach the world from a place of midline, grace, and equanimity.
There is no way to know what will happen in the future. However, succumbing to fear will not necessarily make us healthier or make things better. Fearing something that we do not know the outcome of can drain our internal resources unnecessarily. Living in the fear based “what ifs” can drain your energy and may not be productive because “what ifs” may not actually come to fruition. However, we can be aware, intelligent and mindful in each moment and be energized from that awareness knowing we are controlling what we can control and doing the best we can for ourselves and society. We can prepare for the future if we immerse ourselves in the present, fully aware with strength and grace.
One constant that we will always have when we are living in this planet is our breath. The breath is our life force. The breath is a powerful force and as a practicing ashtanga yogi, we know the breath so well as we follow it, day in and day out, on our mat in our daily practice. Take your practice on the mat and bring it to life.
When I feel my belly tightening as I think of the universal “back to school” reentry in an era of “Covid,” I return to my breath. I practice square breathing (Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4 hold 4). Or I could just practice free breathing like I use daily in my practice. From my practice, there are so many tools at my disposal. I could furl and unfurl my spine for a moment and just breathe. I could practice a sun salute incorporating strong breath and drishti. I could sit and chant or I could do a free breathing in public quietly without anyone even knowing. Your practice on the mat should help you in life and offer you strength and resilience. Create a practice that helps you live a better life. That is yoga in practice.
Follow your breath regularly throughout transitions into the unknown or challenging periods. The rhythm of the breath is like a metronome. It is rhythmic, even and steady. Following the breath, helps you feel that rhythm of steadiness and evenness. When you bring awareness to the breath, its sound is mesmerizing. A perfect balance between two opposites, the inhalation and the exhalation, the furl and the unfurl, the twist left and the twist right. Like a pendulum, the breath brings you one direction and then the other and in the centre of those two directions is a still point. I think of this place as the midline. Use breath awareness practice as a way to find your midline.
When the breath takes over, the mind steps back and the intuitive, all knowing body takes over. A sense of peace and calm pervades in our nervous system and in our entire being. This is one of the greatest gifts that our practice gives us. A reminder to follow the breath and merge with it. A seemingly simple but powerful practice. Be extra kind to yourself during this transition. Smile a bit more at the outer world and try an act of gratitude and kindness towards others during this transitory time. You will feel positive energy.
Enjoy the vibrant fruits of summer and relish the transition to cooler, crisper fall days. Let the breath be your foundation. Tether yourself to the breath. It is your resource. Ashtanga yoga is a great tool. It’s a true gift to our self.
Join us in classes wherever you feel most comfortable. Whether that is virtually for classes or in our physical studio. You are all a part of our community wherever you are. During this time, the positive energy of community is essential. The AYV community has been a tether for me during this time. Thanks for the continued support. If you want to attend classes at the studio, please email us at least two weeks in advance to organize your schedule day and practice time.
Fiona
June 15, 2020
Dear AYV Community,
It’s finally happening. The studio is open. All classes are by registration only. Please email us at least two weeks beforehand to register for ongoing classes.
There are some back to studio protocols It’s a long list. Thanks for your patience. Here goes!
VERY IMPORTANT: You must fill out a NEW WAIVER before you return to the shala. Please email it back to us BEFORE you return to the shala. Thanks!
If you are UNABLE to attend your shift, please let us know as soon as you can. Space is at a premium right now.
Here are some important things to know before your return. You can also view our COVID-19 Re-entry plan on line as well.
This is What we are Doing to Keep you Safe:
SANITIZING:
AYV will be wiped down daily with cleaners that are on the approved list on Health Canada’s website. We will have nightly deep cleaning as well. High touch surfaces will be wiped down following each class.
AYV has discontinued use of reusable hand towels and cloths.
Teachers will be wearing masks for the time being.
We will no longer be using a sign in sheet and currently will not accept cash as payment.
We will continue to provide hand sanitizer at entrance but remember that hand washing is the best prevention.
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Mat spaces will be marked. We will have 5-7 students (this, of course may change given COVID-19 protocol) practicing at a time at the shala. There will be one teacher who follows the room as well as the online class. All yoga mats are positioned 2m away from each other except for couples that live together and are fine practicing next to each other.
If there are multiple open spots, please follow the chart at the studio for filling the space. The teacher will assist you in the beginning.
When instructing, teachers will also stay 2m away from the student.
MANAGE PRACTITIONER FLOW: We have changed the flow of the studio for your safety. Please enter and exit the studio one at a time (unless you live together) and let the person in front of you leave the foyer and settle in the practice room before you enter.
Please enter the studio and move to the right to enter the practice room. Please follow the teacher’s directions for exiting the space.
If you are waiting outside to join class, please honour social distancing and please wait until there is mat space and the foyer is clear before entering. Please do not wait in the foyer.
HANDS ON ADJUSTMENTS: Based off of WorkSafe BC’s guidelines, for now, there will be no hands on adjustments. Teachers will continue to address you as an individual through creative means - emails, mini video, verbal or demonstrations. If you need support (online or in person), just ask or email us.
PROVIDE DISINFECTANT WIPES:
When using the washroom, Practitioners will be provided with wipes and/or spray and paper towels to disinfect toilet handles, door handles and sink handles and counter after they use the washroom. We will also ask all practitioners to disinfect their area when they finish practicing. Please sanitize your hands first. There will be a disinfecting station assigned to teach practice spot.
REQUIRE TEACHERS TO SELF MONITOR FOR SIGNS OF COVID-19 and STAY HOME IF SICK: Staff who have symptoms of the illness (a fever, cold, cough or difficulty breathing) will not work. All teachers will follow the same protocol as practitioners and will not teach if they or any of their family members are unwell. (See practitioner protocol below),
ONLINE VIRTUAL CLASS OPTION: All AYV classes will be offered simultaneously online so any practitioner can attend online rather than in person.
We Also Need your Help in Keeping everyone Safe:
HAND WASHING:
Please wash your hands or sanitize upon entry. Please repeat your hand washing / sanitization before you clean your practice area. Hand washing protocol is posted at the studio and hand washing is the best preventative measure.
STAY HOME IF YOU ARE SICK:
Please check your health before coming to the studio each time:
https://bc.thrive.health/covid19/en
If you are feeling sick in any way, shape or form (fever, cough, sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, headache, body aches, or general malaise) you must stay at home. Please err on the side of caution.
If anyone in your home is exhibiting these symptoms or sick, please stay home.
If you or anyone in your family has travelled out of Canada, please do not return to practice at the shala for at least 14 days after your date of return.
When in doubt, please stay home.
All teachers will be following the above protocol as well.
FOLLOW NEW FLOW OF TRAFFIC:
If you are waiting outside to join class, please honour social distancing and please wait until there is mat space and the foyer is clear before entering. You may also wait in your car. Please do not wait in the foyer.
Please enter the room one at a time and only one person in the foyer at a time.
Please enter and move to the right side of the white cubbies to enter the practice space. Please follow the teacher’s help to exit the studio.
Please keep to your assigned start time and show up five minutes before your shift starts. As we find our rhythm, the times may be adjusted to allow for better flow. As it is Mysore style, we anticipate that there will be a natural, one at a time flow, so transitions may be quite fluid. Feel free to watch from your car or from socially acceptable distances outside (follow 2 m markings outside the front door) and enter where there is space in the practice room. Even if it is “before” your shift begins.
IN THE PRACTICE ROOM:
Please bring as few personal effects (bags, accessories) with you as possible. You must bring your clean yoga mat to practice daily.
If possible, please arrive at the yoga shala in your practice clothes ready to practice. And please use the washroom at your home before arriving for practice. Of course the washroom is available to you when you need.
After hand washing / sanitizing, please move directly to your practice spot.
Please leave all your belongings next to your mat. We will refrain from using the cubbies at this time.
Please stay in your practice space zone during your practice. Practice zones are marked with tape. Look for the markers on the floor. Place your mat so the marker is centered with the top of your mat. If you need help, the teacher will direct you from where they are sitting.
DISINFECT YOUR SPACE AFTER PRACTICE & BATHROOM USE:
Patrons will be provided with sanitizer, spray and paper towels to sanitize and then wipe down their practice area when finished with practice.
When using the washroom, please wipe down (with wipes provided or towel and spray) the toilet handle, door handles and sink handles and counter after you use the washroom. This ensures that the place is clean before the next student uses the washroom and allows the teacher to continue teaching. Please DO NOT flush the wipes.
PLEASE BE AWARE OF YOUR DESIGNATED PRACTICE WINDOW:
In order to allow as many people to practice in their designated shifts, please be punctual and leave before your practice window is finished. Please remember to give yourself at least 5 minutes to disinfect / wipe down your space before you leave the studio.
CLEAN & STORE YOUR MAT AND PROPS AT HOME:
We will no longer be providing shared mat spray. Please be extra diligent with your mat cleanliness during this time. Mats can be hung out in bring sunlight after washing them with a sponge. I have even used a front loader washing machine to wash my mat. We encourage cotton mats on top of your rubber mats as cotton mats are easily washable.
There will be no mat storage, mat rental or props during this time. We are happy to let you borrow and sign out props during this COVID19 period. Thank you for removing your personal items daily.
5 & 10 CLASS PASS HOLDERS:
Since we are no longer using pens for the sign in sheet, for those of you who are 5 or 10 class pass holders, please email us after you attend class (virtual or physical class).
TOUCHLESS TRANSACTIONS:
We will not accept cash transactions for the time being. We ask that you fill out your waiver before you return to the studio and please email it to us electronically. This eliminates the use of pens and clipboards. Please fill out your waiver and email to us before you return to the shala.
ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL DISTANCING AND DISCOURAGE CONGREGATING:
Practitioners are encouraged to conduct their yoga practice and exit the facility without unnecessary delay.
Thank you and cannot wait to see you!
Fiona
June 6, 2020
Dear AYV Community,
I always enjoy “seeing” some of you virtually in our online classes. Hoping you are well and healthy during this time.
If you are a current passholder, thank you for participating in our survey! We are so happy that the majority of you have been benefitting from the online classes and enjoying them! The survey also helps us make decisions for re-opening our space and it’s great to hear from you in terms of what you are looking for. From the survey, the majority of you feel confident with our COVID19 re-entry protocols and almost half of you are ready to return to the studio within the next month.
We will continue to listen to WorkSafeBC protocols as guidelines do change. Feel free to continue to share any concerns. If you supplied an email while answering the survey, I was able to respond to some of you individually in regards to your comments/questions. Please feel free to reach out if your questions are unanswered.
This is un-chartered territory for us all! We appreciate your patience and support over these past few months and now again, as we navigate these changes and future transition back to the studio.
In order to best serve your needs, we will continue online classes via zoom from our studio while we are teaching our regular scheduled classes. This allows you to “attend” all your classes, at home and one class per week at the studio (if you desire). In order to reduce exposure to multiple groups of people and to keep the occupancy in the studio acceptable for social distancing (6 people plus teacher) you will be assigned a day and time for your in studio class (only if you want to practice at the shala). You will be with same group of people for practice at the shala. When we reopen the space the teacher will be providing guidance to both the students in the shala and to those online. The wonders of modern technology! For the time being, we will also continue all led classes virtually.
Please click this link to see our specific detailed re-entry plan for the studio. This is based off of WorkSafe BC guidelines that have been provided for the fitness industry.
Some of the changes you will see at the AYV studio for your safety are:
We will have much smaller class sizes with marked practice spots.
For practicing at the shala, you will have an assigned day and practice window one time per week.
Follow the signage which shows how to enter and exit the space.
We will have specific cleaning protocols and use Canadian approved Covid19 disinfectants.
As recommended by WorkSafe BC, we will not be providing hands on adjustments for the time being.
For now, all Led Counted classes will be held virtually only.
Online classes will continue via zoom simultaneously with Mysore classes at the shala.
Teachers will be wearing masks when teaching Mysore at the studio.
Some of the changes you will see at AYV based off your survey results:
The evening program will have a combination of Mysore and Led classes.
We will also continue meditations and guided deep relaxations virtually when we transition back to the studio. There will be some time changes for meditation sessions once we transition back to the shala. Please check the online schedule regularly.
To respond to some of your questions about recorded classes, chanting and meditation, remember that all recordings are located on our video page. If you miss a class, you can always access this page to take a recorded class, meditation or guided deep relaxation. This page also includes posture tutorials. This page will continue to be updated weekly so check back regularly. This page will continue as a resource to you when the shala re-opens.
We have many resources for you. If you are not finding what you need, please reach out and inquire. Your questions lead to our inspiration! We are here to support you.
What we need from you:
If you would like to practice at the shala, please email us with the following information.
When would you like to practice Mysore style?
(For now, all Led Counted classes will be held virtually only.)
Choose 1 option:
5:30-6:45 am
6:45-8:10 am
8:10-9:35 am
8:40-10:00 am
5:00-6:15 pm
6:15-7:30 pm
In order to allow everyone to practice, we ask that you leave the shala before/by the end of your practice window and allow 5 minutes to wipe down your practice space with the disinfectant spray provided.
We will do our best to accommodate your first choice. If you need a specific practice day due to obligations, please include it with your response. If you are flexible with your time choice, please let us know. We anticipate early morning shifts and evening evening shift will be higher in demand.
If you decide to practice at the shala when we reopen, you will receive a detailed email with all information on our re-entry plan. This includes: specific movement flows for entering and exiting the space, cleaning protocols, assigned practice day and time and the date the shala will reopen. Please reply to us as soon as possible so we can start organizing our new schedule. The deadline is Thursday, June 11th. Once we finalized all of the assigned times, then the shala re-opening date will be announced. If you prefer to start practicing with us at a future date, please email us a couple weeks before you would like to start so we can assign you your practice time and day.
A new waiver must be completed and submitted prior to attending class at the shala. Please email it back to us electronically. Waiver is here.
We are so grateful for your continued support and dedication during these times. I know there are many uncertainties and questions as we navigate this un-chartered territory. Your patience is greatly appreciated as we transition into a "new normal". Thank you again and we look forward to “seeing” you on the mat virtually or in person at the shala.
Fiona & AYV
June 4, 2020
Dear AYV Community,
I always enjoy “seeing” some of you virtually in our online classes. Hoping you are well and healthy during this time.
If you are a current passholder, thank you for participating in our survey! We are so happy that the majority of you have been benefitting from the online classes and enjoying them! The survey also helps us make decisions for re-opening our space and it’s great to hear from you in terms of what you are looking for. From the survey, the majority of you seem confident with our COVID19 re-entry protocols and almost half of you are ready to return to the studio. We will continue to listen to WorkSafeBC protocols as guidelines do change. Feel free to continue to share any concerns. If you supplied an email while answering the survey, I was able to respond to some of you individually in regards to your comments/questions. Please feel free to reach out if your questions are unanswered.
This is unchartered territory for us all! We appreciate your patience and support over these past few months and now again, as we navigate these changes and future transition back to the studio.
In order to best serve your needs, we will continue online classes via zoom from our studio while we are teaching our regular scheduled classes. This allows you to “attend” all your classes, at home and one class at the studio (if you desire). In order to reduce exposure to multiple groups of people and to keep the occupancy in the studio acceptable (6 people plus teachers) for social distancing, you will be assigned a day and time for your in studio class (if you want to practice at the shala). We will also continue all led classes virtually for the time being. Once we reopen at the space, teachers will be monitoring the room as well as teaching the online students. The wonders of modern technology!
Please click this link to see our specific detailed re-entry plan for the studio. This is based off of WorkSafe BC guidelines that have been provided for the fitness industry.
Some of the changes you will see at the AYV studio for your safety are:
We will have much smaller class sizes with marked practice spots.
For practicing at the shala, you will have an assigned day and practice window once / week.
We will now have specific movement flows for entering and exiting the space.
We will have specific cleaning protocols and use Canadian approved Covid19 disinfectants.
We will discontinue hands on adjustments for the time being.
For now, all “led” classes will be held virtually.
Remember, online classes will continue via zoom simultaneously with our regular in studio classes.
Teachers will be wearing masks when teaching mysore at the studio.
Some of the changes you will see at AYV based off our survey results:
The evening program will have a combination of Mysore and Led classes.
Since the demand was high, we will also continue meditations and guided deep relaxations virtually when we transition back to the studio. There will be some time changes for meditation due to the schedule changes as we transition back to the studio. Remember to check the online schedule.
To respond to some of your questions about recorded classes, chanting and meditation, remember that all recordings are located on our video page. If you miss a class, you can always access this page to take a recorded class, meditation or guided deep relaxation. This page also includes posture tutorials. This page will continue to be updated weekly so check back regularly. This page will continue as a resource to you when our studio re-opens.
We have many resources for you . If you are not finding what you need, just reach out and ask us. Your questions lead to our inspiration! We are here to support you.
May 15, 2020
Dear AYV Community,
It has been great to “see” some of your virtually however I do miss “seeing” you all in person. I hope you are well and healthy during this challenging time.
BC’s Restart Plan is underway and based off of Dr. Henry’s announcements last week, I have been working on a re-opening plan for AYV.. This is unchartered territory for us all! We appreciate your patience these past few months and now again, as we navigate these changes and future transition back to the studio. At the time we do not have a definite date for returning to the studio. Given the softening of restrictions, we will wait and see what transpires over the next few weeks in order to create the safest environment for you all. We are also awaiting for specific guidelines for the fitness industry from WorkSafeBC. Check back regularly and continue to visit our online classes or take a recorded class! Stay healthy and thinking of you all!
March 25, 2020
As March 31st approaches, it becomes very clear that we will not be re-opening our doors for April 1st and given COVID-19, the future is uncertain when our doors will reopen.
Challenging times lies ahead for the world. I am sure you are aware that this time is incredibly tough for small businesses such as AYV. We rely on bringing people together as a community to heal together. Our yoga studio has always been our place to gather, share, learn and grow. In order for AYV continue to exist, we will need revenue to pay our significant fixed expenses. As of April 1st, we will be charging for our online classes in order to continue paying our expenses, which is mainly our Vancouver studio rent. All annual pass holders and current paying members will have unlimited access to all our online classes, videos, tutorials etc… Keeping your pass at AYV allows us to continue.
THE ERA OF ONLINE CLASSES:
We are still as dedicated as ever to support our wonderful community and will do so through Zoom “live” classes, talks, chanting, guided deep relaxation & meditation sessions. This week we had almost 20 virtual classes. We have some classes in Japanese and Spanish and have connected with ashtanga studios in Winnipeg, Calgary, Ottawa & Squamish to offer more. We have added some mini video tutorials and will continue to do so. Check our Instagram story for the daily quote of the day as well. Recorded “led” classes are available as well if you “miss” class.
CURRENT PASS HOLDERS:
If you pay monthly or quarterly by credit card, please let us know if you would like to discontinue your membership. If we do not hear from you, we will continue your membership.
JOIN OUR CLASSES ONLINE:
If you do not have a membership, consider joining with our automated system and email us directly. Our pass pricing is all online. Alternatively, Canadians can pay monthly with Interac-etransfer.
https://www.ashtangayogavancouver.com/pricing
ACCESSING CLASSES FROM APRIL 1ST ONWARD:
All paying AYV members will receive a passcode that gives you access to all of our classes. If you do not receive this before April 1st, please let us know by email.
NEED SUPPORT:
We realize these are challenging times for everyone. If you cannot afford a membership because of COVID-19, we still want you to stay a part of the community and benefit from practicing yoga together. Email us directly and we will make it work for you.
Although I was unsure of online classes at first, it has been amazing seeing practitioners from all over, including many old time AYV students who have moved away! I love the ability to create community during a time of social distancing. It is a beautiful dichotomy and is one silver lining during this time. Try some classes if you have not yet! This week, I enjoyed Virtual Mysore, Maria’s led primary and Veronica’s somatic meditation this week.
Praying for health for the world and thinking of you all.
Thanks for being a part of our community.
Please reach out if you need anything or have questions yoga or not yoga related!
Fiona
March 15, 2020
Dear AYV Students,
Looking at what is happening in the world around us, I believe it’s time for AYV to temporarily shut its doors for the next two weeks. As March 31st approaches, we will reassess the next steps and post in the “Announcements” section of our website what will be happen. Please check this page.
This is a proactive decision. Current Government of Canada information is very clear that the next few weeks are critical in the effort to minimize the COVID-19 exposure risks. Therefore our studio will be closed from Wednesday March 18 - March 31st. As I watch the numbers escalate around the world, I feel that early proactive action is the best way to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
The studio will be open on Tuesday 5:30-7:30 AM and 5-7pm for students to come and claim their yoga mats so that they can continue their home practice. If you prefer not to pick up your mat, that is also fine as it will just stay in the studio during the duration of our closure.
I will be extending the passes, as of now, by two weeks. If you are able to support AYV during this time, and forgo your pass extensions, please email us directly.
I am exploring some creative ways to use technology to keep our community connected and practicing ashtanga yoga “together” while we temporarily close our physical location. Look forward to some “led” classes and chanting that we experience together on line. I will also be addressing questions that we will post on line. What are some questions you have? Email me directly and I will choose some and create some mini videos for your practices. Start checking our Instagram site regularly as I will be also adding inspirational quotes.
My aim is to keep this community as connected as possible during this challenging time for the world. I also love to hear from you, so please do not hesitate to email me directly with posture or practice questions and thoughts! The world is changing and this is a new era that we need to face with strength and grace and continue to search for inspiration in our day-to-day lives.
We will be reviewing the situation carefully over the next two weeks. All studio announcements will be kept up-to-date on the “Announcements" page of the website. Check the “Announcements” section often, and if in doubt, do not hesitate to email us directly.
With you all in spirit.
Fiona