These are good questions to ask. “Why should I commit to something I have no idea about?” Or, “I’m nervous about going into this thing, and want to know what it’s like”.
Leslie’s teaching two workshops for women only, focused on the pelvic floor. Then, she’s doing two more workshops, open to both men and women, for the knees and glutes. (Scroll down for that info if you’re not joining the pelvic floor workshops…)
First, regarding the Pelvic Floor workshops:
Major bonus: ALL WOMEN! Mostly women who have struggled with pelvic floor issues — you know, the things you can only talk about to your best girlfriends, or to your doctor or therapist — and most of us have few knowledgeable resources, even less concrete information, and probably no idea of what’s really “down there”, beyond elementary anatomy. And NO ONE to consult with about this “stuff” who knows much more than we do!
So, Leslie stands at the front of the room, and talks about the STUFF. ALL the stuff . Your stuff. My stuff. Her stuff. Not in personal terms, but she uses words like “incontinence” and “pelvic floor pain” and “hysterectomy” or “caesarean”. Words like “miscarriage” and pregnancy” and “episiotomy”. Words you’ve heard, and likely experienced. At first, it’s a little uncomfortable, like someone’s exposing your bad habits. Why do we blame ourselves for this discomfort? Why??
We don’t get into the why. in the workshop. It’s important, but Leslie lets us do that on our own time.
The important thing is that we get to know THE STUFF and DOWN THERE better, so we learn what it is, what it needs, and how to take better care of it.
Then, Leslie pulls out these AWESOME models of the pelvis (like in anatomy class) and describes the STUFF. And THEN she pulls out these amazing handmade soft, fluffy toys that show how our pelvic organs sit inside the bones of the pelvis, how they fit together, and how the muscles and bones and tissue support them, and what those muscles are, and….it’s suddenly FASCINATING and NOT SCARY OR WEIRD!! We all have this stuff inside us, and it all does AMAZING stuff, like carry babies, give birth, pee, and so on! It’s a lot less intimidating when you know what’s down there, how it works, what it looks like, and how one thing influences another.
Then, we move onto practices to bring awareness to our own habits. Again, this sounds scary, but it’s not. We might use a prop, like a blanket or cushion or block to sit on. We might breathe while we’re paying attention to one part. No one’s looking or commenting–each person is focused on their own practice. Afterwards, we might discuss what we noticed or observed. You share what you’re comfortable with, or ask whatever question came to mind. Or you sit and just learn from and with everybody else.
In the full workshop (the six-hour “Yoga for the Female Pelvic Floor”, Oct. 28-29, 9am-12pm), Leslie gives homework. You’re on your own with that! The second day is a continuation of the first, with more depth and practice, as well as discussion and Q & A. By that time, we have some idea of what we want to know, the good questions come out, and Leslie’s knowledge really shines. She’s a vault, a treasure trove of stories, anecdotes, information and practices as well as GREAT PRACTICAL ADVICE. Believe me, you’ll feel empowered, and ready to take your pelvis into your own hands, so to speak!
In the two-hour workshop (Friday, Oct. 27, 6-8pm), we’ll get more of a “taster” of what’s above. Anatomy, information, practices, practical advice, and a few rich stories to illustrate the points. As they say, a little learning is a dangerous thing, so indulge in this workshop knowing that you may leave wanting more! It’s a great intro to the material in the full workshop. You can take it independently, just dipping your foot into the river, or you can take it as a precursor to the full workshop, as a kind of an appetizer.
About the “Smart-Ass, Dumb Ass” and “The Bee’s Knees” workshops: We’ll work in more of a formal class setting, with yoga mats and props. Leslie will introduce the anatomy and function of the specific body part, and then offer practices and practical advice for keeping it healthy and improving its function. The practices are based in familiar yoga postures, but you don’t have to be a yoga practitioner to benefit from the workshop. If you have any issues with the glutes, hips, buttocks, join “Smart-Ass, Dumb Ass”. If you have any issues with your knees, join ‘The Bee’s Knees”. And–remember–these two workshops aren’t only for women! Men need this as well — skiers, athletes, runners, hikers, bikers, lawyers, doctors, butchers, bakers, and candlestick makers! Bring your broken butt, your knobby, wonky knees, your pain-in-the-a$$…there’s a place for them here!
So, this is Dana’s version of what happens in Leslie’s workshops. Please take it as you wish–your experience may be different. But I encourage you to take a chance. If you want to speak to me personally about whether this workshop is for you, please feel free to send me an e-mail (from the “Contact” page on this website). I’m happy to answer any questions you might have.*
Leslie and I both look forward to seeing you in the workshops!
With respect and gratitude,
Dana
WORKSHOP DETAILS AND REGISTRATION HERE!
*If you have a history of significant trauma, or are currently in therapy for trauma in the pelvic area, you’re welcome to consult with Leslie as to whether you are a good candidate for the workshop. Feel free to reach out to me, and I’ll connect the two of you.
Dana Levy Yoga + KIZUKI Movement Therapy 