Full Vinyasana

Today I found out that no-one actually completes full vinyasana between each asana as I was doing yesterday. Not even in the AYRI Shala is this done. I guess it used to be done, and I remember discussions on the web about it.
The main thing is, it actually did feel really good to do it! Maybe if it wasn't so tiring I would continue it.

Tenth Ashtanga Practice

Almost extremely strong adjustments today.
I was reading John Scott's Ashtanga book (the seated asanas) and saw that between each side he completes a 'half vinyasana' and between asanas he completes a "full vinyasana".

So today I tried it! Wow! Very tiring! I was too tired to continue after the Marichyasana twists. I completed the Padmasana finishing asanas and finished with a short Savasana.

Ninth Ashtanga Practice

Today my P.M. practice was more of an accurate reflection of my normal practice. I stopped today around Navasana (boat pose) and completed the finishing asanas (just the lotus asanas) and Savasana: I did not feel like repeating yesterday's intense marathon by having Sheshadri rock me around the mat in Gaba Pindasana (http://ashtangayoga.info/asana-vinyasa/primary-series/22b-Gaba-Pindasana.html) once was enough for me :)

Backbending course

I have been hearing about a one month backbending course offered by someone known as "Venkatesh" - Today I found their contact information.
From what I hear, the course starts off very easy and then moves to extremely intense! The poses are held for 20 seconds at a time and most people are very sore in the back for days at a time.
I also heard that the course is really excellent.
I think I will pass for this visit, I need to keep my focus for why I am here... and this will prevent me from sticking with my Ashtanga practice.

It's raining - Shoes are wet

Just after finishing washing the clothes (and getting into the house) I went to Anu's Internet Cafe to send some e-mails. I left my shoes outside (as it is etiquette to do in India) - Soon enough the rain came (so much for the clothes drying) and after some time I left the cafe to venture upstairs for their fabulous lunch.
Upon inspecting my shoes (Goretex waterproof) I found that they were wet. Ha Goretex shoes will not become wet when the owners feet are inside them (as long as they are not completely submersed in water) but when you take them off and leave them out in the rain, the shoes become wet from the inside out!
Squelch, Squelch, Squelch.... There is not much that I dislike more than wet feet...

Locked out!

I told my roommate that I would be going out for breakfast, but then decided to quickly clean some clothes. I left the door open to the area used for washing clothes (between house and stairs leading to the roof) and sat down to hand wash a bucket full of clothing.
It is a shame (in a way) that we are so reliant on machines to wash our clothes. Hand washing can be very engrossing and almost a meditation.
I looked towards the door and found it was closed. I had a bit of a feeling what happened but figured I would work it out in a bit. I continued to wash my clothes.
Close to finishing the wash I decided to check the door. Sure enough it was locked!
Still not panicking I decided I would finish the clothes and off and on knock on the door to try to attract attention.
I finished washing and hanging the clothes but still could not manage to alert my roommate to the situation. I looked at the side of the building and saw it would be fairly easy to climb half way down. I knew that I had the key, maybe I could hang by my hands to the ledge and swing down, or I might be able to attract someones attention. There were people in the lot next door, building a house, but I didn't want to bother them because I knew their English was very bad and it would be hard to explain what was happening.
I climbed to the ledged and looked down. Just as I did, the woman who owns the house turned around (from the gate) and saw me. As you can imagine she was very suprised to see me, and asked me what happened.
It took me several minutes to explain the situation but eventually I was able to drop the key to her and have her open the main house door, walk upstairs and then open the door to the cleaning area!
All was fine, I talked to my roommate and she said she wondered why it was opened (I imagine she thought I had already departed for breakfast) and closed/locked it!

The next morning

After 'completing' the primary series I felt that I would be very sore the next day. This was not the case! I was really feeling fine, with only a slight feeling in the back that I had pushed myself too far. Needless to say, I didn't try to complete Primary Series today!
The main issue was that I had had so much energy after class that I didn't sleep too well, so the morning was a bit sluggish. This is why Ashtanga should be practiced in the A.M.!

Eighth Ashtanga Practice

While AYRI is closed I went to Yoga Mandala to check out their classes. Normally studying at another Ashtanga school is forbidden by AYRI (penalty: you lose the rest of your month's money and get 'kicked out' of the school) but this should be no problem since the main shala is closed (what exactly am I supposed to do for practice, self practice? Nope that is why I am in Mysore - to take classes so hopefully when I return I will be able to self practice, I know that self practice isn't going to happen for me at the moment) and I am studying with Saraswati who did not ask me to sign the AYRI contract that states you can lose your money etc.
So with that out of the way.... the classes are taught by a Mr V.Sheshadri (http://mandala.ashtanga.org/) a student of BNS Iyengar (not to be confused with BKS Iyengar) - (BNS Iyengar studied with Krishnamacharya)
Yoga Mandala itself comprises several rooms, one of which is used for Asana practice. The room seems to hold about 13 students plus the teacher, his son, and an assistant (who is going through the certification program). All three provide very (to extremely) good/powerful adjustments, of which one needs to experience to believe!
From what I can tell 'Sheshadri' (as all the students refer to him) does not stop anyone from skipping asanas that they cannot complete. This does not follow the normal 'Mysore' style of practice (where the teacher will request you to stop your practice and complete the 'finishing' asanas when they feel that you cannot progress further)
When I attend a Yoga class I will follow the 'rules' of the teacher, so with that in mind (and a spirit of 'how far can I go anyway') I stood at the front of the mat and waited for the class to begin.
The first difference I found was that Sheshadri begins the class with a chant that is quite different to the AYRI chant. After the chant is completed the second major difference is that he leads the class through several Sun Salutations counting the Vinyasanas... at some point he either lets his assistant continue for another salutation or two or he says "continue" or something like that (at which point we are all on our own).
To cut a long story short, I skipped a few major asanas (but did manage some asanas I have never before attempted - often with the help of the teacher or assistant) and 'finished' the primary series!

Yoga Mandala Cat

So I went to Yoga Mandala today (to their cafe) and plonked myself down. Within five minutes, the Yoga Mandala Cat came strolling up to me meowing.
Normally I would not touch cats in India since most are strays, and it is pretty dodgy to touch a stray animal, you just do not know what they may have.

Well before I could even ascertain the implications of handling the cat, it jumped onto my lap, and sat down!

Fortunately everything was ok, so it was really really fabulous to be able to be friends with a cat... and amazing just how friendly it is! :)

Shopping

Went to Ashok bookstore, Pharmacy (for Ayurvedic products) and on the way briefly went scarf shopping (basically all for roommate, but I wanted to check out the bookstore, so all was good :) )
There was a pretty good book on Yoga, but it has a lot of duplication with books I already have, on the other hand it is only 250rs and does have information that I do not have in any other books... I decided if it is still there I will buy it next time.
I ordered a book by the same author (I forget) on Pantajali's Sutras which was recommended to me by two people.
I am also thinking seriously about taking a course which uses this book as the main text.

No practice

AYRI is closed until November 3rd.
I have decided to take a day off (normally Sunday would be my day off, but I am switching it to Saturday until AYRI re-opens) from practice. I will resume tomorrow.

Osho Meditation

I figured out that the Osho Meditation I attended was the Nadabrahma Meditation... I just found a really excellent link (official OSHO site by the look of it)
http://www.osho.com/main.cfm?Area=Meditation&Sub1Menu=ActiveMeditation&Sub2Menu=Nadabrahma&Language=English
That's the direct link for the meditation...

Lakshmipuram & The Yoga Mandala

A friend invited me to check out her place of practice, so today I went over to see it:
After breakfast I took a 25 minute trip to Lakshmipuram, another area of Mysore where there are more Yoga studios (Shalas) - The one I visited is Yoga Mandala - the Ashtanga teacher is Mr V.Sheshadri. (http://mandala.ashtanga.org/index.php/sheshadri)
The shala offers many courses (http://mandala.ashtanga.org/courses.php) which sound really excellent. I spoke to Shantala at the front desk, who was very nice and helpful. She provided me with all the course information and prices (now I see I just needed to look it up online, but the chat was really good anyway :) )

I then visited "Aunty's House" for lunch, I can't imagine how people find it on their own, I can't even imagine the instructions one would have to receive to find it... even once you arrive one must walk through a narrow alleyway and enter a house from the side. The mind boggles. After this I went to "The three sisters" for lassi (again a mystery as to how someone would find it). I was assured the lassi was completely safe and no water is used (you do not pay for water so we do not use it) I ordered Papaya Lassi, quite delic. Unfortunately Mango is no longer available (wrong time of year) oh well...

After the lassi, we walked to the Ashok Bookstore (I seem to visit this bookstore twice a week), though other than one time, luckily (I say luckily because it is way too easy/tempting to purchase cheap 100/200rs books) I have kept my money in my pocket.

Seventh Ashtanga Practice

Surya Namaskara B (Sun Salutation B) is still tiring. I spoke to a friend and he said he rarely does all five since Surya Namaskara is just designed to warm the body - now he tells me! But then again I am sorry he did, because I will probably wimp out every time instead of just doing it (like I have been) so that my strength increases.

One more asana today, oblique face one leg West extension posture
http://www.ayri.org/primary-asanas.html
(Tiryangmukhaikapada Paschimatanasana)- for me sitting with my leg behind (like Virasana/Vijrasana aka hero pose) is really easy, but as with all seated forward folds I find this difficult. Saraswati assisted me with the previous pose (basically the same but with the leg in half lotus) wow, the stretch was pretty intense, to the point I had to bend my outstretched knee to lessen the pressure.

After practice and while looking at my reference book (John Scott) I notice that I have consistently missed one of the zillion (4 or 5 to be more accurate) postures during the (abreviated) finishing sequence. It is Padmasana (full Lotus) with the mudra for 25 breaths. Quite important I would say and especially a good rest prior to the Uth Pluthi where you must lift yourself while in Padmasana for 25 breaths. Needless to say I never manage the 25 breaths (except the first time when Saraswati held my knees up... which was still very intense) - I simply hold the asana* as long as I can (counting the breaths), drop to seated and then lift once again, until I reach about 20 breaths in total or until I am too exhausted - which ever comes first...
Savasana is always very nice....

*Interesting enough, Yoga Mula says this isn't really an asana at all, but still very good for you.

People begging

I am normally quite cool when it comes to children begging, but today on the way back to the Yoga Mandala there were about 10 school children (all girls) who followed me for several blocks generally being silly but also begging money. When one of them grabbed my camera I had to protest.
Using all the Hindi I could remember (probably not helpful at all since everyone speaks in the local language which is Kannada, or they speak English, and then maybe Hindi), * , I tried to get rid of them. This really didn't work, they continued to follow me for a while longer, but eventually gave up the chase.

* ok I didn't say every word I know, since saying "food" or "water" to them would only make them think I was going to give them some food or water or money.

Sixth Ashtanga Practice

Still counting...
Today I managed to not only remember all the asanas to complete, but I also remembered to complete them in the right order!
Saraswati let me progress to Half-Lotus bound, seated forward bend (Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimattanasana - Half Bound Lotus West Intense asana) - after class I realized my spine wasn't as long as it could be (in the heat of the moment I allowed my back to round) consequently I did feel a little pull in my lower back, but nothing to cause concern.
It seems that when you study here, the student is as responsible for making sure they have correct alignment as the teacher.

As much as I am happy to progress by another asana, I think I should be deepening the asanas I already know, I realize I have been too easy on myself, especially in downward facing dog (I need to press through the heels to help stretch my hamstrings - good preparation for the seated forward bends) so today I started to do that more.

Tomorrow is the last day of practice before the shala closes. It re-opens on November 3rd, so I have a good opportunity to self-practice.

Fifth Ashtanga Practice

I may just stop writing which # practice I am on, but it is good for me to keep track... hmmm

Todays practice was good, though I am still very tired after the fifth Surya Namaskar B. I did remember the first two poses today, and only managed to switch the leg balancing pose with the half lotus forward fold pose. Saraswati spotted this error (of course after I completed it, so I had to do the correct poses and then the half lotus forward fold again...)
I am jumping ahead a bit... the tricky asanas for me are still the sideways Stretch (Prasarit Padottanasana) especially variation C and do where I must bring my arm behind me (c) or grab the toes (d) *and* forward fold... basically I have to gently ease my head to the floor (easier on the previous variations where the hands are available to do so), almost impossible on c & d variations... so after attempting all four, I had to wait for Saraswati to assist.
Saraswati keeps telling me to fold closer to my body ("not so far out!") and this time (because I do not have the flexibility in my back) I could tell my head/neck was being pressed back... oh well it was only for 5 breaths, probably will not hurt me eh?

Saraswati let me continue to seated asanas today. I am beginning to see a pattern, introduce a few asanas, then allow those to deepen before introducing the next. I was able to complete the seated forward fold (West extension Posture Paschimatanasana) of which there are three variations. I was also told to complete Upward facing posture (East extension posture - Purvatanasana)
http://www.ayri.org/primary-asanas.html
I completed the padmasana series (I really have to make it the tightest (ie really bring the knees in close) padmasana ever to be able to bind.

Tina's Library

Tina's cafe has a library where you can take one book out at a time.
I looked yesterday and there was nothing. Someone commented there is never anything.
Today, I was about to leave and then I saw the library "nah, there is nothing there, I checked yesterday"... hmmm well maybe a quick check...
I walked up to the bookcase and staring me in the face was Osho Meditation The First and Last Freedom.

I grabbed the book and left.

Coincidentally there is a 1hr Osho Meditation today that I am about to go to....

Shala Holiday

It is October 22-November 2nd inclusive. Shala re-opens on November 3rd.

I will have to figure out something to do for Yoga practice. This holiday has arrived so quickly (just had a moon day too) so today was the fourth day of practice only.

My options are: Self Practice (high up there because I can save some money), no practice (low option), Yoga Shala (as mentioned in last post where they allow you to move on without attempting asanas) but there are some political issues if I choose to do this, or there is a one month backbending course that looks interesting. Trouble with this (apart from the politics) is you should not do any other practice at the same time (it is very intense) so 2 weeks of the time this would be so, but the last two would be Ashtanga in the morning and backbending in the afternoon. I was advised this is too insense to do, but we shall see. I do need some backbending to supplement all this forward folding, plus it is good for my lunges and advances my teaching knowledge as well. I understand the course is 12000 rs or so (to be verified)
hmmmm..... any thoughts anyone?

Other Ashtanga Shalas

I spoke to someone the other day about her teacher. She studies in Lakshmipuram at the Yoga shala there. She said her teacher lets people skip asanas if they do not want to do them! This just can't be good (we all know the asanas are designed to build on each other, if you can't complete an asana it is an indication that you should not proceed to the next)
I also agree with another friend that it is about awareness. As you deepen in the practice you become aware of what each asana does and how it effects the next. You appreciate that this is the case and even if you can't tell the effects of the next asana, because you have experienced this in the previous ones, you know it to be so.
Less experienced people may not be aware of this in their bodies and may not listen to the Guru's advice. I think this is one reason it was good in the old days when people would follow the Guru's advice without question. Mind you, if you do that, better find a good Guru.

Ashtanga session

8am practice. My breath is much improved now that the sickness has all but passed. Five Surya Namaskar B's are still tiring for me. I missed the first two poses of Primary series. I don't know what happened, I simply went straight into Triangle. Saraswati didn't notice and I didn't realize until a few hours after class.
Prior to class I have been reading John Scott's Ashtanga book. It is really great, I am just focusing on one or two asanas. I just re-read the information for Surya Namaskar B. I was really running out of breath coming into Warrior I. I now know it is necessary to continue the exhale past downward dog until the arms are lifting for Warrior I, at that moment (just before in fact) the inhale should begin: It made all the difference in todays practice!
Each time I feel the sequence (forget the fact I missed the two asanas today) is becoming smoother, I am remembering better.
I do not know if Saraswati is not seeing me complete some of the asanas or if she does this intentionally, but I end up repeating many asanas (in the 3rd session she actually told me to repeat a whole series of asanas) - it is good though.
Saraswati had me finish at the end of the standing series again today. I am very happy with this because I was actually thinking she was letting me go through the sequence too quickly. I want to savour the journey, really deepen each asana before proceeding too far.

Updates

Added photo to "Arrived in London" dated October 3rd
Added "Mumbai Airport" with Photo - dated October 5th
Added "First Ashtanga Practice" dated October 6th
Added "Sick" dated October 7th
Added "Do you need to go to a hospital?" dated October 10th
Added "Picked up meds." dated October 11th
Added "Mysore Market" dated October 11th
Added "Strange day & Osho Meditation" dated October 12th
Added "E-mail to a friend" dated October 13th

I am slowly catching up on the blog... sorry for the delay.

Street Signs

So here is an example of the street signs in Mysore, this one from the end of the street I live on. A lot of the signs are fading.
Needless to say, unless you can read this, it is necessary to memorize locations/directions.

Last batch of pictures from Gokulum / Green Hotel

Yet more pictures of Gokulum / Green Hotel

More Pictures of Gokulum / Green Hotel

Pictures of Gokulum / Green Hotel

Blog corrupted had to redo!

Picture of Green Hotel gardens

Third Ashtanga Session

This is the 3rd session. Saraswati let me complete the standing series today!. I do not know if she will keep me here or let me move to seated series next time.
We have Sunday off, and Monday is full moon, so another day off.

Grand Violin Concert

Attended a Grand Violin Concert @ the "Chakra House". Local Mysore Classical Indian Music. It was very good.

The art exhibit they were showing comprised photographs and drawn art. Some nice work.

There was also a buffet, but my stomach/throat was a bit too acidic for the food, but the Masala Chai went down nicely. Cost around 95rs

I left early because I had practice the next morning.

2nd Practice Session @ AYRI

My breath is still off, the sickness / right lung is preventing me from having a really nice smooth Ujjayi breath.

Saraswati let me go up to the balancing leg raising poses (Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana (http://ashtangayoga.info/asana-vinyasa/primary-series/) (no I can't lift my leg that high - not even close) today! I don't think there was any real difference in my practice, except she didn't have to prompt me so much (I remembered the previous poses, I had a problem just remembering the sequence... ok I have a problem remember the sequence of poses)

Completed the Padmasana finishing poses on my own.

E-mail to a friend

"England was really cold and I think that is how I got sick - which Ri, was the best thing that ever happened"

Let me elaborate - The sickness gave me time to sit back and reflect on things, otherwise I would have been immediately propelled into Mysore life without any reflection. So as they say, everything is for a reason. Atleast it is if you believe it is. Me - I am open to most everything being possible.

Strange day & Osho Meditation

I can't explain the following, maybe it was the sickness, maybe hallucinations.
In the afternoon, I rested on my back, not exactly Shavasana, I was laying down on a hardish bed in no real position (but I was comfortable)... I would close my eyes and images in full color like comic strips would flash behind my eyes. I opened my eyes. I would think of something, close my eyes and again an image would appear. Interesting thing is the image was almost an answer to whatever it was I was thinking prior to closing my eyes. I opened my eyes. I did this several times. Same result... Other things came to me too...
I looked at my watch, time to go to a 1hr Osho meditation I had been invited to. I wondered if I had to do anything other than sit up. My fever was in full force and I couldn't imagine doing anything more. Oh I would have to breath, well I was coughing and my right side hurt with all the phlegm. Breathing may have to be optional... I left for the meditation.
I met up with my friend and we arrived. I told the guy that I would sit at the back so I wouldn't disturb anyone.
The meditation was amazing and brought further insightful moments. I probably should not go into huge details here so let me just say I had to exhale a simple sound and the music in the background supported this breath. There was also very slow arm movements. Incredibly simple and yet profoundly powerful. I am hooked.

Picked up meds.

I picked up medication this morning.
The Dr. looked out for me and asked how I was, I told him about the same. Are you taking the medication? I told him I haven't picked it up, thought the store was closed. He didn't seem too happy, told me to pick them up asap. He had said yesterday it would take only two days for me to feel better, this has prolonged my recovery. I really would have gone but I felt horrible last night, I just couldn't walk plus the directions were very vague (though I had a good idea where to go)

Most of today was consumed with resting.

No practice today either. No chance of that. (Still waking at 4:30am)

Mysore Market

A friend dropped by to see how I am (really really nice of him) I told him I was that great. We went to lunch by the Market. The restaurant serves South Indian food in one part and the other has North Indian food (it is A/C) or something like that (I probably got it the other way round)

We also went to the market, it is festival time (Desara - a Mysore festival) so the market was completely packed. We would hear a strange cry like someone tried to say shhhh and then (if you didn't move away in time) a sack would probably come crashing onto your head. Basically this was the warning sound that someone was carrying a very big sack and could not see where they were going!

I didn't do much else all day, definately no Yoga!

Do you need to go to a hospital?

Finally today I called Shiva, the Yoga Helper. "I need a Dr., a Western doctor, not an Ayurvedic one, can you send a Rikshaw?" (I know Ayurvedic Dr. are great, but they usually prevent problems, I know I need antibiotics at this point... my chest is full of phlegm and if I don't take care of this now it is not going to be good)

"Do you need to go to the hospital?!" I told him no. He said he would have a rikshaw driver to me in 5 minutes. Then he called back... "You know... your landlord is a Dr.!, he will be there in a few minutes!"
Had I known this I would have seeked helped sooner.

The Dr. came and prescribed Antibiotic (suprise, suprise)

He also gave me some great advice which I will save for everytime this happens:

Drink hot milk
Drink warm water
Eat Bread + Butter
Have Soup
Eat Apples, do not juice them that changes the properties, just eat as is.
Do not eat any other fruits!

That was it, but it was really excellent advice! I think it helped a great deal.

Sick

Today and for the next week I missed practice. I lay in bed drinking water hoping that this would pass in a day or two...

I have been waking up by 4:30am the past few days, that's a bonus.

Mind you most nights I haven't slept much at all, waking every few hours...

First Ashtanga Practice

Based on advice given to me by Yoga students last night at a local restaurant/Internet cafe (Anu's Cafe) on went into Saraswati's class @ 8am.

I told her I am a beginner and asked her if it will be ok for me to study with her. She asked me if I know Surya Namaskar and I said yes.
http://www.ayri.org/fundamental-asanas.html
She asked me how long I will be here. I told her 3-4 months. She was ok with this and let me join.
I unrolled my mat and stood at the front in Samasthitihi (Mountain Pose) and breathed Ujjayi.... I stood there until told to move. Saraswati said go ahead start, so with an inhale I brought my arms overheard and began.
Mysore Style practice is hard, you have to remember which count you are on, how many times did I complete Surya Namaskar, was that the 3rd? I can't remember. In Surya Namaskar B (where you do Warrior I) you have to remember to do both sides after the Vinyasa through Chataranga/Upward facing dog. Did I just do the right or left side? I can't remember.
I winged it through 5 of each (which in itself is a lot for me, back home I would complete 5 of each, maybe two poses and basically that would be it, too tired to continue, I would end in Shavasana shortly afterward). I was tired and sweating (the sweating is a good thing, the tired part no so)
Then I stood in Samasthitihi. I completed the first two poses of the Primary series (Forward fold first grasping the toes, then placing the hands under the feet - Padangusthasana).

After holding the toes for 5 breaths, was I supposed to inhale to flat back, then fold placing my hands under my feet? I couldn't really remember, but that seemed right so I did it.

After all of this I returned to Samasthitihi. As I already said, this is where my practice would normally end. I couldn't remember really what was next. I stopped and waited, breathing Ujjayi....
Saraswati came along and helped me through the next few poses.
I came to Sideways Stretch A (Prasarita Padottanasana A)

and Saraswati did something I haven't seen before. She held me by the waist and lowered my head/body to the floor! Then the adjusted from there...
I reachec Sideways Stretch C and she stopped me (this is Mysore Style Ashtanga where you do not go further if you cannot complete the pose, it is up to the teacher exactly when that is (there are rules if the teacher can get you into the pose they may let you proceed, but since this was my first class...)
She told me to go down... I sat down, then started to lay down for Shavasana... no..no..no she said! Sit in Padmasana (Full Lotus) http://www.ayri.org/finishing-asanas.html.
I sat with my legs crossed in half lotus. Saraswati said "Do you not know Padmasana?" I told her I did, and obediently started crossing my legs..."no..no..right leg first!" She was telling me to cross my right leg first, then the left crosses over the right. I was happier with the anyway since my left knee makes it more difficult to cross the other way.
I thought, no problem Padmasana for 25 breaths (I remembered this from the video I was playing) hahaha Saraswati comes along and helps me to finish the remaining poses including a 25 breath count of Uth Pluthi (I can't find a link but basically in full lotus you place your hands out to the side and lift your body for a count of 25)
I was suprised when Saraswati placed my hands so far apart for Uth Pluthi (made it a bit easier) she did support my knees during the count but it was rough.

Finally Shavasana... what a sweet reward.

Saraswati told me to come back tomorrow at 8am.

I left the Shala and sat down where a man was selling coconuts. I gladly accepted one from him (only 6rs) and guzzled away. I was still sweating a little bit, mainly my head. I was also tired. Ah it was more Yoga than I have done before, no problem.

Later that day I realised it was a problem... fever had hit me...

Leaky pens

I gave one of my nice pens to my brother, and now, my other nice pen is leaking :( It's one of those Sakura Archival .30mm (very specific) waterproof etc pens.. so now I am back to using a ballpoint pen... I think I am still happy not using a pda.

"You gotta ask"

Transfering from International airport to domestic airport (Mumbai/Bombay to Bangalore)... do I go straight ahead where it has a big bold red exit sign (and big expansive space ahead - scarey) or do I go left down this tiny corridor with no marking at all... ask... you should go left... ok

I image had I exited the airport I would have lost the free transfer and not been able to re-enter...
(not really sure what time of day it was at this point)

Mumbai Airport

This is a photo taken when I was sitting in the plane waiting for it to taxi.

Dubai Airport

I needed to transfer quickly to another flight, (I thought the plane departed at 3am, instead it started boarding @ 3am) so I didn't have time to look around... but two things struck me, money was no object (and that is used freely nowadays, but really) when building this airport... for all of that I was given confusing instructions as to whether I needed to go through passport control or not (you *must* go through passport control - follow everyone on lift (slow- no stairs) ... or not was the answer... in the end I had to go back to arrivals to have my bags scanned then I could go down to the gates
Talking of Emirates, the planes are incredibly comfortable in economy (class) with TV screens (LCD monitors) for each person. So you can basically pick which movie you want and watch away. Oh the menu looks incredible (picture to follow - sometime) food matches...

Showers in London Heathrow Airport

I have found that there are exactly two showers (for men) located at Heathrow airport... neither of them work. Mind you the showers aren't exactly easy to find anyway, one tucked away in Terminal 4 by the arrivals gate (I mean, who ever would want to shower after arriving?) and the other was in Terminal 1 or 2 or something - I really can't remember...
Nevertheless, since both showers are not working (well one was definately broken.. pipe issues, the other just said "not in use") I was told "Sir, you can probably visit the Hilton to shower, let me find out" very helpful... sure enough they (the woman helping me and actually using the phone, and the man standing behind her looking rather official, as official anyway as a Heathrow airport Info person can look.) told me that it would be only £5 to use the Hilton's gym's shower only, or £10 for the use of the gym all day... fabulous... oh and all I have to do is go upstairs, cross a corridor (which joins the Hilton to the airport) and I am there; Plus I can use a cart all the way! hahaha not so quick...

So here I am with a 55 lb of backpack, 8kg secondary backpack (don't ask why one weight is in lbs, the other in kg...) and a sticky mat.. to boot... well ok, it wasn't that bad, I used the aforemnentioned cart for most of the journey.. even still... the corridor (after about 3 minutes) proudly stated that I have 6 minutes of walking, 4 minutes of walking etc... I arrive at the door to the Hilton... the automatic swivel sorta door, that although an Airport cart may well navigate - it really detracted from the effect of the hotel.. so I get rid of the cart... down the stairs (I did mention stairs?) and into the gym (I was told "No lift for the gym, you must walk...*wrong* but I found out too late) where I am informed that I must pay £10 for 1 day gym membership, there is no such deal of shower only...
Well by now I pretty much was commited - there was no way I was going back after all this...
The shower was fabulous...
I also met a Punjabi man- we had a chat about Yoga and meditation - he basically subscribes to the need to start Yoga in the early morning (4am, 4:30am etc) otherwise it loses its effect the later you begin in the day.

I also went for tea upstairs at the restaurant.... it was nice... a bit overpriced (imagine that for a big name Hotel in London)

Arrived in London

Photo is looking out from my brothers window.

Trip over was fine, Delta is still pretty nice when flown Internationally... Landed in Gatwick International Airport. I went through Customs/Immigration easily and then I lined up for train tickets to Plymough (pretty long line) The man at the counter told me to get the next train to Plymouth which changes at Reading - I said, wait a minute isn't it quicker to go via paddington (here I am super tired; completeley out of it;no idea really about how train routes work in England; challenging/asking a walking encyclopeadia on trains lol) He said "Why would you want to do that - it's longer - and goes through there anyway!" So of course I said ok. Then I saw how soon the train departs... 15 minutes (or something crazy) I gotta change money, get through the green channel (sometimes they stop you, sometimes there is no one there!) I am thinking 1hr min. - so I challenge him on this too! Stupid me! He responded that I had plenty of time it's a straight through thing; no problem.
Tiicket cost was So I arrived in Reading. The train arrived late, which meant that I missed the connection... man at the station told me to just wait for the next train; it is on the same platform no problem and a 10 minute wait. He also said it travels directly to Plymouth.
As the train pulled up to the platform I discovered that the train does not in fact stop in Plymouth but skips it and then stops at the next major town (a long way away, don't remember which one) I asked a conductor and was told to talk to the office to see which would be the best train to take, so off I went to the office. I couldn't find the office so I returns to the platform to ask a different conductor who advised me that the next train stops at Plymouth, but I could have caught this train and simply got off at Exeter and transfered again, I said great! I will do that then. The conductor quickly informed me that this would not be possible, the doors were closed and the train was about to leave. So I missed that one.
I waited over an hour for the next train getting a bit cold. The train arrived!
I lumbered (the 2 backpacks that I carried with me made it awkward to do anything else) onto a carriage that was further away from the front of the train because the closer carriages were marked First Class. I didn't find a place for my large backpack in the storage area (besides I have heard of people stealing them from these areas) so I just carried it to a seat. One seat for my backpacks, one for me, sounds good. Hopefully the conductor won't mind.
This train had a buffet I knew, but I wasn't sure where it was, or if it was one of these full service trains where they come to you. Shortly the ticket inspector came by so I asked him. He told me it is in Carriage B. I asked how far that was from here (not wanting to leave my backpack long) He advised me that I was in carriage F and that carriage B was near the front of the train. I thanked him for the information and told him I wouldn't bother then.
I sat around for an a bit but my stomach told me that I needed to eat, so (again worry about the backpacked) I pretty much ran down the train (ok I walked really really fast) almost knocking into people.
The buffet had warm and cold meals, but I found the warm meals are by order so they take time to make. I really wanted a warm meal, but really wanted to get back to my seat, so I ordered a cold sandwich. Upon receiving the sandwich I walked really really fast back to my seat. A little bit faster this time, so fast as I knocked peoples hands and legs it was almost rude.
I arrived back at my seat and collapsed down, thankful that my backpack was still there!
Arrived in Plymouth a few hours later, and after getting my bearings again walked over to the bus stop. I took a bus to Bretonside Bus Station to purchase the return ticket for the 11:45pm coach to London Heathrow.
When I asked to purchase the single ticket the woman advised me that the coach company no longer allow tickets to be changed once they are made so to be sure before I purchased. No problem I was sure so I purchased the ticket. (price to be added later)
After that I visited my brother, it was a nice visit, over six hours, though were he is living is very cold, and especially upstairs in his bedroom was freezing tonight. I didn't really cover up adequately.
After the visit I was dropped back at the station where I stopped off at a local Indian Restaurant. I ordered a take out but the coach was about to leave. I walked really really fast to the coach, picked up my backpack from the lockers and settled into my seat.
The coach stopped for a break on the way and I did manage some sleep, I didn't eat the Indian food in the end as I found a really tasty and filling Yogurt at the rest area cafe. The Yogurt had honey at the bottom and yummy tasting topping.

The picture is the view looking from outside my Brothers upstairs window.


!Original Post! I have completed my mini trip to see my brother, one day of travelling, then one day of waiting for the next flight to India... So here I am... waiting.... :)

Fuzzy Brush

I was at a highway motorway and checked out a fuzzy brush from one of those dispensers in the restroom.

The website is www.fuzzybrush.com

Amazingly enough it seemed to work!

A. G. Mohan

I checked out the svastha website for current programs and prices ( http://www.svastha.com/sayoga-registration.html ) but was dismayed to see that the cost will be over $2000 for tuition only (and who knows how much for accomodation since it is to be held at a beach location.
As good as the program is, (atleast people have raved to me about it) I just cannot justify it. That and the little problem that I will land in Mysore after the program starts is another tricky issue.

Oh well there is next years program to consider...

Welcome

Welcome to my blog... I hope that you enjoy the posts, both leading up to my trip to India (which is scheduled to begin on October 2nd 2005) and including the trip itself (four months)...

OK let's have a quick Q&A to cover the basics...
So where am I heading? Mysore India...
Exactly when will I arrive in Mysore? On October 5th 2005...
So why is there such a discrepency with the dates? I will be stopping over in England for 1 day...
How long will you be in Mysore? I thought I just mentioned? Four months, atleast that is the plan right now...
What are my expectations for the trip? I am trying not to have any... I would like to study @ AYRI (www.ayri.com) I may also check out the local cooking, as well as other things tbd...
To be continued...