Karens Journal

Yoga Saved Me

2011-01-28T03:53:00.001-08:00

Following worsening Multiple Sclerosis symptoms since August 2007 after 18 years at the Building Society I have not been able to work I felt I resembled a person of low worth. I never anticipated being powerless to continue with my much enjoyed voluntary of Charity Coordinator. I could not make a difference as I helped other people in need within the community. All that maintained any positivity in my normal incredible positive attitude is my love of yoga. Yoga helped me manage the various visible and invisible symptoms that Multiple Sclerosis bestows upon us. My practice of yoga enabled me to balance the despondency and maintain my renowned positive attitude.

I reviewed the Yoga Show and set the intention to attend and absorb myself completely in the yoga experience. I discovered an opportunity to participate in the first Yoga Aid challenge and the opportunity to help a yoga charity. I might be valuable for a moment.

I discovered my own personal paradise when I visited the Special Yoga. I and enjoyed a couple of classes and workshops. One workshop was for existing yoga teachers to learn the skills to help people with ME. MS is different from ME but there enough similarities to sanction my attendance. Fiona Agombar was inspired by my tenacity and the workshop for people for MS was created.

On Sunday 2nd November 2008 at 7:30am I arrived at The Yoga Show with 150 others ready to take part in the Yoga Aid challenge. At last I was doing something important again. After completing 3 hours of yoga I was more than chuffed to be the recipient meditation beads as a reward. I was not expecting more but I did receipt the unforeseen.

I was invited to the front where Clive Mayhew the founder of Yoga Aid, told every one of my own personal challenge with MS and my dream of becoming a Yoga Teacher. I was then told I had been given a scholarship. I was going to be given the training I needed. My husband was amazed as I was stunned into silence, a true miracle must have happened.
Now, two years later, I can teach yoga plus I help out on the workshops to help other Yoga teachers on how to assist their students with Multiple Sclerosis.

In Croydon I can teach yoga to my friends with MS in the Croydon MS branch but need to find appropriate premises. For an unknown reason the church hall where we gather rejected Yoga being taught in their premises. Yoga is not a religion but an ancient philosophy, but it is my next challenge.. However I discovered the local Buddhist Centre were looking for new premises, so I informed them of the availability of a disused library in a park. I support them in their quest to find premises while I maintain my search for humbler disabled friendly premises to let.
Life has never been so good and rewarding.

Karen Mascoll, Yoga Teacher.

till we meet again...

2010-09-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

http://smilieyogi.blogspot.com/2010/09/hello-and-welcome-smilie-yogi-s-journal.html

Please come and visit and if you want follow me as my journey continues.

Namaste.

It is all becomes clear...

2010-08-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed the last intensive and feel i have grown much as a person and stronger as a yoga student. Suddenly everything is clear and i know i am on the right path. Now i am living with each moment with best intentions.

I keep having epiphany, but today's is more about my inner peace. I think actually get the message of true self and everything being unreal. Ever person and being has their own unique true self and that is what matters. Not things, not accomplishments but each soul reaching their own personal potential. Not right or wrong, just be with good intentions, faults are a special quirky quality in their own right.

Of course I am unavoidably tied to the attachment of need to pass the exams and get myself graduated so I can achieve and work towards my life's purpose. Well I am still human and admit that i have a few flaws that make me special and give me to something to work on to grow as a person.

Always with Best intentions....

2010-07-27T05:26:00.000-07:00

I am smilie with confidence that I only work with best intentions to help others. I am human and forgive myself for my failings as I confidently believe that I always work with the best intentions.

Today my head is busy, so much to do, no time to do it. I have extended the week to 14 days and I still have a distinct shortage of time to be proactive. It is simple really. Stop and reflect about what really is important to me.

Without a doubt my family and loved ones
Closely followed by good friends
Which is why I want to help where I can, and I can through yoga and so this point has to be prepare for yoga study and maintain a yoga practices
Share my ideas with the universe and the many to share it with me. Those who will benefit from my point view and advice will find it. I will not worry about negative connotations of my very valid view.
Homework…. And study, yes I passed
Panic me? Yes I am but I am trying to keep calm to achieve my full potential in my exams and essays, observations, various other items. not mention learning Sanskrit … http://www.tilakpyle.com/sanskrit.htm
My head is too busy remember calming yoga breathe and meditation. Essential to keep the mind working with all the stresses that life throws at us.
Contact Fiona Agombar for so many reasons..
I have lots of
Some more sensible than others but two main ones tell Montel Williams about yoga and helping with pain relief…. And what to do with the old Ashburton Library. Turn into Addiscombe sanctuary
Remember to positively keep smiling, and work with best intentions.

from the words of a babe

2010-07-27T01:48:00.000-07:00

Time evapourated and opportunies pass. I am now going to hold onto the special moments... moment by moment. I will begin this moment of reflection before returning to my yoga teacher training and preparation for tt8 intensive week 3.

Rebecca gave me the below story, and her permission to published!

reflection and review

2010-07-11T06:33:00.000-07:00

Time to plan and reflect in readiness for tt8 intensive week 3.
• Must prepare 5 minute update
• My practice diary
• 50 word description of yoga practice.
• My actions till now and my future intentions
• Grand mother news
• Workshop idea & MS society
• Fiona Agombar my assessor
• My dream of sanctuary.

Happy Birthday to Me.... now how can i escape the football....

2010-07-04T05:31:00.000-07:00

I had a birthday Saturday 26th June – same thing happens every year. Yet again the attention was to be on the football and then I saw FREE 2 day coaching workshop. I had no doubt it would have some sales pitch attached to it but it could be an opportunity to pick up some useful skills, avoid the football while Gary was punished by it and most importantly benefited from an air-conditioned conference room.

My MS is always badly affected by the heat, I explain to my daughter with her baby. I share that liked baby Jessica my body is not good at managing hot temperatures. Today has been a completely non-productive day because I am so exhausted. The temperature is 19 degrees centigrade. I am struggling to find words but with the help or Microsoft word and dictionary.com I am able to get some molecules of work from my overheated body.

It was a nostalgic trip for me. I used to work in Recent Street and the journey was the same of course most of the shops have changed in 20 years but the sweet that keep me supplied in Ribena is still there looks like it has not been touched in the past 20 years

It was a useful workshop about coaching techniques an i was given a certificate to say i did the two day course, before i got the certificate i had two sit through two hours of presentations telling me why i should do the full certificated course. I did gain some insight of what i want to be when I was coached by other attendee and whilst I was a coaching them. To be able help we need to be able to listen, ask Lots of questions to discover what is important and not assume. When we coach we must not to give advice but help them find their own answers. I feel that is an excellent beginning point but people need mentoring and guidance as well. This weekend as well as saving me from the football and providing air condition on a really hot helped me find the direction I want to go towards.

I when I filed the certificate for the two day course I saw all the other certificates I have been rewarded and reflect on the skills set I have attained up to now. So I am going to become a yoga and life coach plus mentor.

My simple birthday epiphany was to take stock and begin again. Stop playing catch. See where I am and what must be done. That ranges from looking after the baby, preparing for the people coming to give me a walk in shower (stepping into baths – well I just can’t, and mum’s shower has a step and no support rails, so really an essential job but then I also have my tt8 homework. Following my last class plan I now have to prepaid for an hour class plan – and present it at the next tt8 intensive week. I had better prepaid so that I can get rid of the Panic!

I have left messages on for Montel Williams Facebook pages, the American host who has been diagnosed with MS and promotes looking for a cure. I may be mistaken but I hear him talk about vitamins, the classic marijuana and think he may not be away the benefits of yoga for MS. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3qDsOojG7U

I was intending to put a workshop with some of my yoga teacher friends following some useful insight provided. More than a journal is needed to help my fellow suffers with MS see how they may from yoga class designed taking into account their personal circumstances.

busy busy busy....

2010-06-21T03:10:00.000-07:00

I had a manic weekend but productive. I became a qualified first aider and bridal wear model. What has that got to do with yoga teacher trainer and helping others get a better life well…..

Me becoming a model… that was not supposed to happen! Circumstances dictated and needs as needs must and Angela received the call from hospital to take advantage of an operation to treat part of her Multiple Sclerosis symptoms. I met Paulina Bielecka at Croydon Enterprise, and she asked if I knew anybody in a wheelchair? – may be one or two dozen! She was fast approaching a dead line for the photo shoot she is was doing for Able Magazine. She wanted to be authentic but had great trouble finding a disabled model to promote her new business inspired by her own difficulties when looking for a wedding dress. The only authentic disable person available known to me available at such short notice was me. It was a challenge – not the posing as a model – I am a natural extravert. The challenge was accepting the disabled label so I could be a suitable replacement. The truth is I needed to sit and use the aids available after the long wait – Angela’s made to measure dress was not made to measure me and had to be adapted to my different size. It will be in July’s Able Magazine but Angela will have her day, I am determined!

Exclusive Bespoke Bridal & Evening Collection at Paulina's Brides is available for sale now! Call now on 07547 702 720 to book your dream consultation. Don't wait any longer to make your dream dress a reality! Personalized made to measure dresses for every occasion, design with YOU in mind! – Paulina Bielecka, founder Paulina’s Brides

I have to be a qualified first aider in order to become a fully qualified yoga teacher. Appointed Persons First Aid Certificate. (Valid for 3 years) - The day will be based on 'Experiential Learning and looks at all aspects of First Aid within the Yoga Classroom.

. It was a long journey to Weybridge required as part of teacher training but it was fun and useful experience and our tutor Michael Bond was an excellent teacher. Mike is a registered nurse who has taught First Aid for most of his 40-year career, he was a National Trainer with the British Army, a regional trainer for the Prison Service and at present teaches for his local Primary Care Trust. His First Aid days are based on Fun and experiential learning, his aim is to link First Aid to Anatomy and Physiology resulting in an understanding of why First Aid emergencies happen and how to react to them professionally. Mike Bond teaches the enormously popular course, First Aid for Yoga Teachers

Where was I last month? - Busy becoming a very young grandmother!

My Yoga Epiphany!

2010-05-30T16:32:00.000-07:00

Even if the reason is not apparent or clear when things do not go as we want - it happens for a reason. These pieces of misfortune teach us and to appreciate when things go well and to learn a different ways of action in the future. I live life with best intentions.

Karma is more than capable to deal with the ill intended give any reprehension, condemnation or punishment due, we just need to keep faith that karma always provides appropriate justice. Karma wins.

One of my biggest lessons has to do with attachment. Actions are only good karma if done free from attachment. I feel it is human nature to enjoy being appreciated and getting acknowledged for our efforts. It is not bad to be appreciated but it is not karmic ally appropriate to expect appreciation.

In my humble opinion – and it is really humble – to develop where acknowledgement and appreciation is not acknowledged, or even credit given to another for the deed. To be satisfied that you have put your best intention regardless of the result.

To be truly free from the burden of guilt –I feel only then can we another emotion we would rather not feel – is to be confident that we could have done nothing to improve the situation. We have done everything with the very best intention. We do our best we should not feel guilt and confident we are truly following Karma’s guidance – if things go wrong it is not our fault but it may be our lesson.

I always prefer to choose to be happy and content.
I choose to see the good and ignore the negative.
I choose to accept what life gives me and know…

Teacher Training Intensive: Teaching Yoga to those with MS with Bill Feeney & Fiona Agombar

2010-05-19T05:49:00.000-07:00

Fiona is again running the course I inspired her to create after I attended a "Teacher Training Intensive: Teaching Yoga to those with ME Fiona Agombar " Fiona has unattentionally become my mentor and will help to assess me as part of my teacher training with Simon Lowe.

Date: Sat , Sun 18/09/2010 - 19/09/2010
Time: 10:00 - 17:00
Price: £150, early-bird £130 before 31st July, £130 concession

MS or Multiple Sclerosis can be a crippling disease. It is an autoimmune problem which occurs because the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, which confuses the neural pathways. Symptoms may include pain, spasm, difficulty with co-ordination, profound fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness and general disability.

Yoga can greatly relieve the symptoms and may help to lessen or prevent further attacks. In this two-day intensive which is suitable for teachers and health professionals, Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar explain what MS is and examine how to teach yoga that can help this condition. The emphasis is on loving compassionate teaching, based upon the Yoga Sutras, which enhance acceptance and healing as the student moves towards a state of yoga as the mind quietens. The Intensive includes practical work and teaching plans and will tackle questions on mobility and how to adapt postures to the individual. A key part of the training will be working with the breath and pranayama techniques. An opportunity to work with those with MS is being organised.

Instructors: Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar

Bill Feeney was the Director of The Yoga for Health Foundation and has over 20 years experience both in working with MS and in training teachers to work remedially. He is a student of Dr. Vasant Lad. Bill has also taught on both General and Remedial Teacher training courses for the Yoga For Health Foundation and also on the Diploma course for the Yoga Bio-Medical Trust.

For the last 19 years he has been studying Ayurveda under Dr. Vasant Lad, director of the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico and a world leading practitioner and teacher of Ayurveda as the Science of Life. Bill has travelled extensively both in the UK and abroad giving talks and seminars on all aspects of Yoga and Ayurveda. He teaches Ayurveda up to Prakruti and constitutional levels including lifestyle and dietary guidance. Like his teacher, Dr Lad, Bill teaches Ayurveda as a sister science of Yoga as it was always taught. In 1992 Bill was made a Fellow of the World Society of Clinical Yoga and in 1997 he was made a Life Fellow for the World Society of Clinical -Yoga and Alternative Medicine.

Fiona Agombar is the author of Beat Fatigue with Yoga and originally trained at the Yoga for Health Foundation and in India. Fiona had ME for fifteen years, but recovered with the help of yoga. She is now studying as a KHYF teacher under her mentor Gill Lloyd and runs regular retreats for those with ME and MS. Fiona is also a regular contributor to Yoga and Health magazine.

www.specialyoga.org.uk/

www.fionaagombar.co.uk/

Wake up and wiggle it!

2010-04-25T02:49:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UT6h7Sfn4bc

Wake up with a yoga wiggle!

Deep Breathe in...
Swing arms a little to loosen and breathe in
Breathe out as Roll shoulders forward from the ears
Pause at out breathe end and take a DEEP in breathe

Breathe out as Roll shoulders back away from the ears
Breath in and as breath out, raise arms to the ceiling
continue to breathe push up each palm
Pause at out breathe end
and take a DEEP in breathe Push up with both palms,
deeply breathe in as circle your arms down.
and breathe out push arms forward
continue to breathe push with the right palm, to the left and continue to alternative
Hold forward as take a deep breathe in.

Pause at out breathe end
and take a DEEP in breathe and squiggle it as rotate wrists
take a breathe in
change rotations as breathe out.
hold arms forward as breathe in.
drop arms to side and push back with the other breathe
Breathe in as push palms back as shoulder blades try kiss
Breathe out and clasp wrists pulling the arms gentle back
Release grip as breathe in and bring arms round for a hug
Pause and release Breathe out as squeeze into hug
Breathe in and clasp wrist again in the reverse

Pause and releaseBreathe out and clasp wrists pulling the arms gentle back
Release grip as breathe in and bring arms round for a reverse hug (arms wrapped round the other way)

Pause and release Breathe out as squeeze into hug
Breathe in to release the hug and get ready to

Pause and release and breathe naturally as wiggle it just a little bit (loosen each of fingers on each hand.. each thumb, and then each finger till the little finger, return the wiggle back to the thumb)
then rotate wrists clockwise and then anticlock wise
end with a squiggle as if washing hands under a tap.
sit it.. as we now move to the feet

Breathe deep breath in to and and deep breath out as cross one over the other...
As return to natural breathe get ready to...
wiggle it just a little bit (loosen each of toes on one foot.. each big toes, and then each toe till the little toe, return the wiggle back to the big toe)
then rotate ankles clockwise and then anticlock wise, remember to breathe. At the

end of an in breath time to swap and take a deep breathe to
initiate kenny everett leg change and work on the other foot and then on the other foot..

wiggle it just a little bit (loosen each of toes on one foot.. each big toes, and then each toe till the little toe, return the wiggle back to the big toe)
then rotate ankles clockwise and then anticlock wise, remember to breathe. At the end of an in breath time to party....

Deep breathe in, and breathe out - Stand if you can or don;t if you won't!
stay still..ish for the deep breathe in but get ready for it, any part of your body, tooooo...

Deep breathe out to Wiggle it just a little bit, then a larger bit
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to squiggle it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to float it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to spiral it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to Circle it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to Bounce it
and again...

Deep breathe out to Wiggle it just a little bit, then a larger bit
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to squiggle it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to float it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to spiral it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to Circle it
a moment pause for deep breathe in then...
Deep breathe out to Bounce it...

Namasta my friends..

I am a yoga teacher!

2010-04-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

Ok newly authorised and still learning but i can teacher!

I have just completed my first 90 minute yoga class. Terrified absolutely but I think it went well. Now just need to write up my notes and reflect properly on it! Thank you Tanith - I'm reaally happy she enjoyed it!

I have done a class before but the other Karen was a willing volunteer and an ideal opportunity to practice and she provided some excellent feedback.

Truly my first class, was the group of girls guides who i prepared for and then changed and adapted as needed.

Fiona has advised that there is going to be another Teacher training workshop and i am assisting. I am also organising more people to benefit from the class.

Now time to reflect on all my teaching experiences and prepare for the future classes i will lead.

Reflecting on my intention.

2010-04-16T13:56:00.001-07:00

My intention to be the best yoga teacher i can be. Practice Practice Practice is the key.... and luckily for me i have ample volunteers that want me to teacher them. Recently I have been asked how yoga helps people with Multiple Sclerosis. I KNOW it does it helps me on a daily basis but my MS is different to every other individual unfortunate to belong the group of unfortunates diagnosed with MS.

I now consider MS my gift, for it limitations it has also given me many opportunities and possibilities that I would have been blissfully unaware. What is MS to me, something different every day i breathe but YOGA helps me breathe through all the difficult moments.

I have taken a small break from my studies to record this moment of reflection and to share how others have described the benefits of yoga for people with MS.

http://www.yogajp.com/mhtml/yogaformultiplesclerosis.html

Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis

Physical Benefits of Yoga for MS patients
People with MS have a wide range of physical capabilities depending on the nature and progression of their condition. Some days are easier than others, but a consistent attitude can bring about positive mental and physical benefits. A frequent yoga practice can improve both your physical and mental outlook so you can start to feel better!

Here's what you can expect from Yoga

Increased body awareness
Release of muscular tension
Better coordination and balance
Reduced fatigue
Greater flexibility and strength
Improved circulation and breathing
Reduce intolerance to heat
Improved organ function (Including bowel and bladder)
An overall feeling of well being

Yoga as Therapy for MS patients

YogaJP has been working with MS patients and the MS Association for many years and has designed specialized therapies to help loosen the joints and eventually increase mobility and muscle strength. Yoga is not a cure for MS, but yoga students continue to report relief from their MS symptoms and claim to sleep better and have more energy.

Yoga Reduces Fatigue In Multiple Sclerosis Patients, OHSU Study Finds
Just six months of yoga significantly reduces fatigue in people with multiple sclerosis, says a new Oregon Health & Science University study. The study, published in the journal Neurology, found that yoga is as good as a traditional aerobic exercise program in improving measures of fatigue, a common and potentially disabling symptom of MS. It was the first randomized, controlled trial of yoga in people with MS.

http://www.ohsu.edu/news/2004/060804yoga.html

My idea.... My vision...

2010-03-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

I am training and will be a yoga teacher but i have a dream, a vision, an idea.

My idea!

It is simple really so has it not happened yet?

I travel from Croydon, Surrey to Kensal Rise NW11 and attend a yoga centre. It is more than a yoga centre but a community that also offers other complimentary therapies, healing, reiki and a wonderful feeling of safety in the community. It was two years ago and it felt so homely. It was far from home.

Fiona’s workshop where some of my friends were invited to be volunteer for a free yoga session proved to me there was a need. I had 16 names but was let down by transport at the immediately prior to event. Five people with MS still managed to attend the event and feedback proved to me that it needs to more available to these people. Matt advised me that after 5 years of constant pain and sleepless nights he had a pain free peaceful night of good sleep. That was after just one yoga class.
I have discovered there is a MS therapy centre based in Coulson which seems to offer some of the things that I would love to be available in Croydon. I have an appointment to visit on 31st March to see what it can offer me and what ideas I can use for one based in Croydon.

I am attending a workshop laid on by Croydon council to help people with ideas turn them into via ones.

I would to be able to use http://www.nhs.uk/Change4life/Pages/Default.aspx. I have signed onto the scheme and researched what facilities are available locally. There are facilities but not many in central Croydon and most have costs would act as barrier to those most in need.

I feel this promotion for get the Croydon healthier, a little bit a time. Health = exercise (in my case yoga), proper diet and happiness (mental health) I love to be able to instigate a bubble so that can happen for the young, disabled and mature – those alive in Croydon – a bit of peace and comfort.

Jamin is working with me to promote this idea, and we both agreed it needs more structure and planning. At the moment it is just wild sparks of excitement with culminate in a centre based in the heart of the Croydon community. It would be completely accessible to the disabled but also appeal to the younger generation and it link with the fit for life, perhaps a small community that offers a vegetarian restaurant, child care facilities, people of mind (perhaps with police frequenting for chats and people of mind to the more venerable in the community. Perhaps also one of the express “supermarkets” available for those to frequent the community to easily get hold of essentials. It would be a very safe bubble in Croydon.

I contemplated getting support from the community, local businesses and entrepreneurs like Richard Branson or perhaps one of Croydon’s more famous citizens.

My vision

I have an idea. A dream I just need to work out how to make it happen!

How do I see myself as a yoga teacher?

2010-03-15T03:31:00.000-07:00

Karen Mascoll: How do I see myself as a yoga teacher?

I would love to be able to teach yoga so I can give the gift of yoga to others. To allow others to benefit as I already have. I would prefer to teacher yoga 1:1 but would encourage those individuals to meet together once a month to gain the benefit and energy of a group practice. I share my Karma yogic ethos and lifestyle with my practice including being a vegetarian remembering to meditated and reflect on my own life. I will encompass different appropriate aspects to help my students develop their own personal practice with inclusion chanting and relaxation.

Karma Yoga

2010-03-15T01:53:00.000-07:00

Karma Yoga

Karma is action. The law of Karma guides “you reap what you sow” as suggested in the Niyama “laws” limb of advice included in Patanjali eight Limbs of yoga. – It can be good and it can be bad.

What is Karma yoga?
• Karma yoga can be practiced along with all other style of yoga practiced.
• It is living each moment with our guided intentions to do the best as to live life following “Karma Yoga principles” as dictated in the teachings of The Bhagavad Gita.
• Karma yoga is following a specific philosophy. It is a conscious Lifestyle choice to travel the path of Selfless service. - In our actions and thought. Act and think with a selfless Intention.
• Karma Yoga - NO attachment to the result for any action or good deed. Don’t measures your successes by the results but live with continue best intention?
• Human EGO is a great challenge with Karma Yoga.
• Karma Yoga is completely altruistic and can lead to spiritual growth and the discovery of peaceful bliss and joy.
• Karma’s Yoga paradox is the initial goal should not be expected due to the irony of non-attachment.
• The irony of Karma Yoga has no hope or expectation of others gratitude or appreciation.
• Philanthropy and helping the rest of humanity offers the reward of feel good factor, for that reason it truly Karma yoga.

Websites for UK
• Google search “Karma Yoga” UK
• Illustrated story of the Bhagavad Gita http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPWSGiXKDS8&feature=fvw

Books
• The Bhagavad Gita Translation by Easwaran
• Umpteen books available on Amazon and other book resources.

Yes – possible Karma Yoga. Donation freely given without personal credit Collect kudos for supporting a charitable causes. Act altruistically, giving the donation gift without acknowledgement.

Not Karma Yoga - The Feeling rewarded for philanthropic support
Studio maintain by the good will of the yogi’s Karma studios do not necessarily practice Karma yoga but want to create the idea of a peaceful studio, in my humble opinion.

Feedback and reflection

2010-03-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

Reflection and Feedback!

I spoke to all my volunteers and thanked them for donating their time and putting the effort to attend. After my thanks I enjoyed an open and relaxed feedback chat with my people who shared with me the challenge of a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis.

All admitted to initially being apprehensive. They had just endured a lengthy travel to http://www.specialyoga.org.uk/ in Kensal Rise NW10, then once the practice was complete we all had to return home to south of the river to wonderful Croydon. They told me that they tried not to have any preconceptions of what would happen and enjoy the experience as much as they could with an open mind.

Thanks to:

Matt Simpson

Matt had a good night sleep; the best night sleeps for more than 5 years. He would definitely recommend yoga to others. Would he have to go back to North London for the treatment?

Gary Booth

Gary’s brother-in-law Garry kindly volunteered to drive us in his disabled adapted van. It was better than he thought it would be. He was definitely “less stiff” following the yoga. He would happily sing the benefits of yoga. He is worried that his quads are getting weaker and affecting his ability to function but he now felt there was some home he could do something to help himself. He advised that he was going to meet with Matt and want to tell the Croydon community of their shared experience. I look forward in hopeful expectation to see his report.

Karen Nash

I have known Karen for some time, our paths keep crossing. She has recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and the school had approached me, with another parent who had just been diagnosed with MS. I offered my phone number to forward to this other mum, it turns out that in addition to our children belonging to the same school, we had both attended the same school in our day were just a couple of the coincidences .

Karen had been begun to attend my regular Thursday class with me in Croydon. She knows yoga helps her and was perhaps more agile than Matt or Gary. She also expressed a fear that she could be developing more MS symptoms. As a friend I will talk with her and look at her options. Like me, she noticed that she was adjusted because of her position – MS does affect your special awareness and we both lied like a banana than straight, yoga would help to improve this.

And then there was me! – Karen Mascoll

Well I was thanked for arranging. I was hurt by when I was rejected by text by one of the potential volunteers refused to come and help. Then on the second day I was asked to think of something negative which in itself for me is a challenge, I can now easily reject negativity but actually was able to use the very recent negativity when I was asked to think of something bad and that made me unhappy as part of the workshops kinesiology experiment. When asked I put on over performance of doom and gloom, but it was against my nature to go to such dark places. I was relieved to quickly be able to return to the forever optimist positive Smiley Karen!

Unbeknown to me I had discovered the best tool for health – a positive attitude! + + + yoga + yoga + hugs, smiles and lots of love + yes lots more yoga…

I am not sure these people truly understand what MS is, I have discovered that I am surrounded by people with preconceived ideas of how badly the MS affects us, how ill or well we are in reality.

I have long since found the benefits of regular practicing yoga, some of which for me are:
• Less pain
• Improved strength
• Improved stamina
• Less affected by fatigue
• Better concentration
• Less stressed
• Improved muscles in my bowel and bladder…. I have had it confirmed that I have developed stronger muscles in other regions on my abdomen to compensate and help to prevent the more embarrassing problems that it would normally cause.

BUT …

I do still have MS; my fatigue is much improved but still affects me more than others.
I cannot look up without becoming disorientated and losing my balance, I am better balanced leaning on a wall for standing poses.
I do not have the stamina of my peers and when it fails me, I can be affected with symptoms that had subsided:

o Concentration
o Shaking
o Vision problems
o Dizziness
o … and all the other nasty symptoms that had subsided..

but I will continue to work to be the best I can be and develop and improve my own personal yoga practice.

Rachel also diagnosed with MS and also attending the workshop agreed to participate. I will try to get her feedback at a later stage… need her contact details!

http://s298.photobucket.com/albums/mm261/smiliekaren/yoga%20teacher%20training%20workshop%20%20pictures/

Now back to my yoga academy teacher training… well almost, the ball is rolling to arrange for a yoga centre to locate in my home of Croydon…watch this space...!

workshop for yoga teacher to help people with a diagnosis of MS

2010-03-10T00:30:00.000-08:00

Fiona and Bill,

Thank you for designing an excellent course to support yoga teachers and me with my goal to bring yoga to everyone living with Multiple Sclerosis.

I have spoken to Matt, Gary and the the other Karen. Matt informede that after his first ever yoga class he enjoyed the full nights comfortable sleep for the first time in over 5 years. I will produce a short document and forward to the my fellow yoga teachers to help with their development. Thanks for the emails!

Speak to you soon,

smiles and hugs, Karen

I'm on a mission.

2010-02-27T14:00:00.000-08:00

I have send my article to Zara, Editor of Croydon Communicator. I send the photo's and anyone can do yoga idea. Asked for volunteers for Fiona's teacher training working to help people with MS do yoga.

Today I have been contacting my friends and have 10 willing volunteers but need to sort out transport issues.

Today I attended an event laid on by Croydon council, and it may be the opening for an opportunity to realise my dream to get a yoga center in Croydon with facilities for disable residents of croydon. A small bubble of a community that condenses the basics of a functional ommunity... obviously yoga center, an express supermarket, restaurants to socialise, bowling/center ....

Any one can do yoga!

2010-02-15T14:16:00.000-08:00

Graham Woodman took some photo's of me doing a complicated yoga asana (pose)

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/photo.php?pid=746194&id=1625739175

How yoga can help those with MS....yoga and Health Magazine Feb 2010

2010-02-12T10:34:00.000-08:00

Thank you Fiona for creating a course especially to give extra training to yoga teachers for the benefit of the MS world

Dr Ruth asked...

2010-02-07T11:31:00.001-08:00

My GP surgery were very aware of my passion for yoga, and how I strongly felt my health had benefitted greatly from my own personal practice. Then I shared my news of how I was now training to be a yoga teacher and hoped to introduce the joys and share the benefits of yoga give I to all.

On an appointment with Dr Ruth she asked if I would talk to her girl guides about yoga. I explained that i was not qualified to teach but she was keen for me to share my experiences. This Friday I arrived extremely at St George Church, Girl Guide group. I was wearing my luminous pink tee sheet with a smiley face over the word “Happy” I wanted to ooze that yoga was fun.

There were 16 girls aged between 11-14, all of whom were very familiar with “wii yoga fit” but wanted to do some real yoga. The girls were split into two groups and I repeated the same half hour yoga session with them. Dr Ruth took part in each of the two talks and gave me reassure that there was a medically qualified person there, even though I was going to illustrate the most simple of examples. I sat them on the mat and asked if the work “like to do some yoga?” All quickly affirmed they would love too. I smiled as I informed that they had already begin their yoga practice, I believed most of yoga practice was intention....

“Do you want more then?”... A very loud yes confirmed. I taught some of the basics of breathing as we sat crossed leg. Lifting arms up slowly up on the in breath and down on the out breath, repeating several times. The simplest of sitting twists, over each shoulder. I hen showed them the child pose, the explained if at any point anything feels uncomfortable this rest position will also advise me that they need my help.

Most were familiar with some basic poses and i took them through a simple sequence including child to table then “scared” cat (in breathe) through to “roaring” lion on the out breathe, followed by the downward dog and which we walked in position and advised what breathe we were using. Then walked hands into legs and held the rag doll, took several breathes, hold chin to chest as traced hands up the legs – last thing to rise was the head. This sequence was built, always returning to the child pose. When we finally were in a standing position all the children, and Dr Ruth, were warm and ready to practice.

For about 10 minutes we played with poses they were familiar, and explained that they must listen to their body, and stop if it dictates. (assume child pose). Then to cool down I showed them the Hindi squat and showed them how to fall if they lost balance to avoid injury. Then we again were sat, and I repeated the sitting reaches and twists, ending with stretches in the staff pose and lie them down. For five minutes of muscle tense and relax and then some breathing meditation to bring our brief practice to an end. Then they went off to be pampered for 30minutes and I repeated again with the second group!

After both groups, I asked if there were any questions. My goodness there were plenty, some wanted to know where I taught, such a great compliment. Both Doctor Ruth and both groups expressed they enjoyed a pleasant experience, or “it was good, can you come again?”

Then I was presented with some delicious chocolates and a bottle of red wine, as a tangible thank you. I expressed my mutual gratitude and thanked them for a pleasant evening.
Of course, I could think of many ways to improve my performance but i tried to be kind to myself, and was very pleased to be able to share my limited knowledge and opinion. Perhaps my passion for yoga could spark an interest in the next generation...

If it is meant to be...

May our studies be ENLIGHTENING Om Santih santih santih.

2010-01-27T14:42:00.000-08:00

My intense yoga teacher studies are progressing well. I have a good rappour and growing friendships with my fellow students on Yoga Academy TT8 course. I'm an enthausiatic trainee yoga teacher and have several friends within MS community and beyound. They know I am training and so limited to the advice i can give (None - just my humble opinion) but are letting me practice my techniques, testing me on my knowledge that could help them and testing me from my knowledge anatomy to philosophical understanding - and all othe aspects.

My own practice and classes I continue to attend classes, and assist with my yoga friends. Additional costs will be payable when I attend the necessary appropriately assessed or observed classes, as part of my teacher training, (I will forward the details when i know them)

Simon Lowe and me @ 2009 Yoga Show

http://www.theyogaacademy.org/

A separately factor but relevant to yoga's influence and following my inspiration, Fiona Agombar has designed with a help of a friend with MS specific a training module for existing teachers phttp://inspirationalsmiles.blogspot.com/2009/11/teacher-training-intensive-teaching.html Fiona's workshop is to be held at the Special Yoga Center, Kensal Rise NW8 first weekend in March. Even though I am only a trainee teacher I have will be attending, at Fiona's invitation, and completion will receive ceritification of this specific MS related Yoga teacher training qualification. It would be wonderful Professional development if physio's could attend the workshop in addition to Yoga Teacher trainers. I informed my yoga teacher friends and also physio's i know to take advantage of this specialist course. It is this course, they have asked people with MS to take advanatage of a free yoga lesson. Health and Yoga.

Jo Manuel (syc) and me at 2009 Yoga show.

http://www.specialyoga.org.uk/

There were, may still be some problems getting the MS society link to those who wanted to support the MS society. I offered my assistance and Keith from Prime Impact organised a direct link to my story on the MS society website.

Me with Keith Prime Impact and Yoga Aid Rep

At the yoga show I met Lizzie from the MS society. Another good reason to visit MS society

Lizzie Broomfield from MS society Head Office and ME (again!) http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/

In my spare time, I am forever the optimist, I hope to do some promotion for the MS Society and specifically the Croydon Branch of the MS Society. I will be regularly attending the Special Yoga Centre, and perhaps one day I can help a Yoga and wholistic centre based in Croydon, but at the moment it is just a distant dream.

There is no limit to my hopes and dreams.

2010-01-20T04:46:00.000-08:00

WOW!

It’s a New Year, a new decade- and my yogic life is getting better and better. My New Year Resolution is to cultivate new and maintain with love my current friendships. I need to make sure my friends are ok, that includes all of you!

It is the beginning of an incredibility busy time but I feel confident in my study plan and my support network. I continue to work hard to maintain and improve my own personal practice. Also I freely volunteer my time to practice my developing my teaching skills as I help in classes of my yoga teacher friends.

Physical practice is just one element of my yoga practice. I need to learn Sanskrit... the language of yoga and yogic meditation. I will delve deeper into my spiritual growth as I digest and discuss enormous amounts of yogic philosophy books. I must understand about bones, muscles and organs of how and why us humans work Plus! – linked to yoga specific subtle anatomy, chakras, breathe and more. Designing my own specific Physical Activity Readiness questionnaire form PARQ as part of the ever present health and safety issues which includes becoming a qualified first aider, I am already insured by the wheel of yoga as a trainee yoga Teacher.

I am very pleased to confirm receipt of an email from the MS society Head Office confirming that they are able to help practically with my yoga teacher training.

Finally it is time to share my dream, I would love for a Croydon yoga and community to be available, bearing in mind the needs of all – I especially am thinking of those disabled and challenged by Multiple Sclerosis but as is the spirit of yoga it should be for everybody. My dream was started at this year’s yoga show http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/

WOW here comes 2010......

2009-12-22T16:27:00.000-08:00

For now I am going to enjoy the rest of the noughties and the festivities it includes, but as for next year....

.

.

om

saha navavatu
May we be protected together
saha nau bhunaktu
May we be nourished together
saha viryam karavavahai
May we work together with great vigour
tejasvi navadhitamastu
May our studies be enlightening
ma vidvisavahai
May there be no disharmony between us

om santih santih santih

In a message dated 15/12/2009 16:35:25 GMT Standard Time, writes:
Andrea and Simon,

I am really looking for the opportunity to develop all aspects in my life and grow into a good teacher and friend to all my fellow students. The intensive workshop revealed some aspects of my personality and attitude I could improve upon and grow. This course will help me to grow and develop myself in addition to gaining the necessary skills and knowledge to become the best yoga teacher that I am capable of being.

Ashley has started TT8 google group and am currently am trying to familiarise with the protocol that the group, there we will share to which will adhere. I am in the process of organising my course reading via the library and with the help of Christmas gifts that others have promised to me.

I hope to have a proper routine and structure in place for after this Christmas season and will be able to manage the intensive work load that lies ahead in addition to the normal obstacles and gifts that lighten life!

Finally and importantly please enjoy the last of the noughties and all the festivities it includes!

Love Karen Mascoll x

------------------------------------------------------------------

2009/12/17
Dear Karen

Thank you so much for writing - your positive spirit shines through in every line and we wish you well in your studies. Make sure to remember to look after yourself and allow time for an extra breath here & there!!

Wishing you and your family a peaceful & joyful Christmas

With love

Andrea & Simon

xx

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.theyogaacademy.org/

Reflection, planning and preparations since TT8 workshop 1:

I have reflected on my first yoga workshop, books allocated, the different layers involved in this course and have prepared myself for a great deal of personal reflection and hopefully personal development both spiritually and within my yoga practice. Reviewed all my resources that include Yoga Academy Teacher Training Manual and emails received from Andrea/Simon, google group set up by TT8 - http://groups.google.com/group/yoga-academy-tt8 and the Facebook group for the Yoga Academy and to utilise the internet generally. There are almost limitless amount of course reading material. The email sent by Andrea provides details of homework expected to be completed by the next workshop and provides an indication of which course books would be more relevant at this time. I have purchased two books not on the course list but related specifically to Yoga and Multiple Sclerosis which is very relevant for my long term goals. I now am very aware that my teacher training involves more than simply teaching skills, lesson plans and anatomy knowledge and various teaching styles. It involves a great deal of reading and analysis of course reading list and to understand the philosophy of yoga – 8 Limbs of Yoga. Learning the Sanskrit word for each yoga pose or asana and also how to pronounce them and represent them in stick person format. To understand the significant role that Chanting, Meditation and relaxation within a yoga practice...

The list is growing, and I actually am genuinely excited about all the work I have to do and the personal growth I will be making as I progress in my studies and yoga practice!

Following Yoga Academy Teacher training workshop week.

2009-11-23T06:18:00.001-08:00

I have just spent a week on the Yoga Academy teacher training workshop - – yoga practice, chanting, studying anatomy, meeting my fellow students and made aware of the additional supportive course reading, but have to admit nervous about assessments, perhaps because it is so important i do well when i am assessed. It made me realise.... here comes some yoga philosophy... how relevant the Yama and Niyama are to me but I will share in a future journal entry.

Now I am prepared and excited but keen to “crack on” with Enormous amount of work that waits. I feel surprisingly confident.

Following Yoga Academy Teacher training workshop week.

2009-11-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

Now it gets serious.... yoga training and promoting yoga to the MS world

2009-11-10T07:20:00.000-08:00

I'm taking five minutes to reflect on my NOW. I am very excited as I prepare for the first workshop for the yoga academy teacher training. I am quite nervous too.

http://www.facebook.com/karenellen266?ref=name#/album.php?aid=31662&id=1625739175
I have at recovered from this year's yoga show. It really suprised me how completely exhausted it made me on top of the aches and pains.

I know Yoga Aid team have had trouble setting up a link with the just giving. To avoid problems next year I will offer my services and as contact between them and the UK MS society. I will also contact my yoga teacher friends and physio friends and promote the class I inspired Fiona to Creat.... Yoga teacher training course to help teachers teach those with MS.

I'm focusing on moving forward and achieving my goals and being able to help my friends with MS. Many have asked for updates and I will invite them to join this blog. Although like talking with my friends in person... or via facebook. I know that all the things I want/need to do are quite time intensive and today i'm going to prioritise and structure my time - so that I look after my health as I strive towards my goals.

Yippee here we goooooooo.......

Teacher Training Intensive: Teaching yoga to those with MS with Fiona Agombar and Bill Feeney

2009-11-06T01:44:00.000-08:00

Teacher Training Intensive:
Teaching Yoga to those with MS
with Fiona Agombar and Bill Feeney

MS or Multiple Sclerosis can be a crippling disease. It is an autoimmune problem which occurs because the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, which confuses the neural pathways. Symptoms may include pain, spasm, difficulty with co-ordination, profound fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness and general disability.

Yoga can greatly relieve the symptoms and may help to lessen or prevent further attacks. In this two-day intensive which is suitable for teachers and health professionals, Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar explain what MS is and examine how to teach yoga that can help this condition. The emphasis is on loving compassionate teaching, based upon the Yoga Sutras, which enhance acceptance and healing as the student moves towards a state of yoga as the mind quietens. The Intensive includes practical work and teaching plans and will tackle questions on mobility and how to adapt postures to the individual. A key part of the training will be working with the breath and pranayama techniques. An opportunity to work with those with MS is being organised.

Course Dates: Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th March
Time: 10:00 – 17:00

Cost: £150, early-bird £130 before 31st January, £130 concession

Instructors: Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar

Bill Feeney was the Director of The Yoga for Health Foundation and has over 20 years experience both in working with MS and in training teachers to work remedially. He is a student of Dr. Vasant Lad. Bill has also taught on both General and Remedial Teacher training courses for the Yoga For Health Foundation and also on the Diploma course for the Yoga Bio-Medical Trust.

For the last 19 years he has been studying Ayurveda under Dr. Vasant Lad, director of the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico and a world leading practitioner and teacher of Ayurveda as the Science of Life. Bill has travelled extensively both in the UK and abroad giving talks and seminars on all aspects of Yoga and Ayurveda. He teaches Ayurveda up to Prakruti and constitutional levels including lifestyle and dietary guidance. Like his teacher, Dr Lad, Bill teaches Ayurveda as a sister science of Yoga as it was always taught. In 1992 Bill was made a Fellow of the World Society of Clinical Yoga and in 1997 he was made a Life Fellow for the World Society of Clinical -Yoga and Alternative Medicine.

Fiona Agombar is the author of Beat Fatigue with Yoga and originally trained at the Yoga for Health Foundation and in India. Fiona had ME for fifteen years, but recovered with the help of yoga. She is now studying as a KHYF teacher under her mentor Gill Lloyd and runs regular retreats for those with ME and MS. Fiona is also a regular contributor to Yoga and Health magazine.
Teacher Training Intensive:
Teaching Yoga to those with MS
with Fiona Agombar and Bill Feeney

MS or Multiple Sclerosis can be a crippling disease. It is an autoimmune problem which occurs because the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, which confuses the neural pathways. Symptoms may include pain, spasm, difficulty with co-ordination, profound fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness and general disability.

Yoga can greatly relieve the symptoms and may help to lessen or prevent further attacks. In this two-day intensive which is suitable for teachers and health professionals, Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar explain what MS is and examine how to teach yoga that can help this condition. The emphasis is on loving compassionate teaching, based upon the Yoga Sutras, which enhance acceptance and healing as the student moves towards a state of yoga as the mind quietens. The Intensive includes practical work and teaching plans and will tackle questions on mobility and how to adapt postures to the individual. A key part of the training will be working with the breath and pranayama techniques. An opportunity to work with those with MS is being organised.

Course Dates: Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th March
Time: 10:00 – 17:00

Cost: £150, early-bird £130 before 31st January, £130 concession

Instructors: Bill Feeney and Fiona Agombar

Bill Feeney was the Director of The Yoga for Health Foundation and has over 20 years experience both in working with MS and in training teachers to work remedially. He is a student of Dr. Vasant Lad. Bill has also taught on both General and Remedial Teacher training courses for the Yoga For Health Foundation and also on the Diploma course for the Yoga Bio-Medical Trust.

For the last 19 years he has been studying Ayurveda under Dr. Vasant Lad, director of the Ayurvedic Institute in Albuquerque, New Mexico and a world leading practitioner and teacher of Ayurveda as the Science of Life. Bill has travelled extensively both in the UK and abroad giving talks and seminars on all aspects of Yoga and Ayurveda. He teaches Ayurveda up to Prakruti and constitutional levels including lifestyle and dietary guidance. Like his teacher, Dr Lad, Bill teaches Ayurveda as a sister science of Yoga as it was always taught. In 1992 Bill was made a Fellow of the World Society of Clinical Yoga and in 1997 he was made a Life Fellow for the World Society of Clinical -Yoga and Alternative Medicine.

Fiona Agombar is the author of Beat Fatigue with Yoga and originally trained at the Yoga for Health Foundation and in India. Fiona had ME for fifteen years, but recovered with the help of yoga. She is now studying as a KHYF teacher under her mentor Gill Lloyd and runs regular retreats for those with ME and MS. Fiona is also a regular contributor to Yoga and Health magazine.

www.specialyoga.org.uk 0208 968 1900 ● hello@specialyoga.org.uk

The Special Yoga Centre,
2a Wrentham Avenue, Kensal Rise, London, NW10 3HA

Registered charity number 1103848

Tomorrow is the London Yoga Show!

2009-10-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

http://www.justgiving.com/karenellen1 is the page I have set up to support the MS society and shows the video clip when surprised and shocked me with the generous offer to.., "Pay for you to become a yoga teacher"

I arranged a meeting at http://www.specialyoga.org.uk/ that Trish Cunnison from MS society Head Office met with me, Clive and Eriko, Christine (she teaches yoga for people with MS and chronic illnesses), Jo Manual Director of the Special Yoga Center and author http://www.amazon.co.uk/Spiritual-Teachings-Yoga-Jo-Manuel/dp/0955888514 To discuss the need for special yoga classes for people with MS. Trish confirmed that Croydon would be the pilot for this idea. It really is quite exciting how this has taken off since last year.

Since last year in addition to my wonderful opportunity to train and MS society being supported at this year’s yoga aid event. At the end of last year I attended Fiona Agombar’s “How can yoga help those with ME’ Following my attendance to this course, and the realisation of the need for a class to help yoga Teachers help those diagnosed with MS in March. As described http://inspirationalsmiles.blogspot.com/2009/09/how-yoga-can-help-those-with-ms-fiona.html. For some peace of mind I asked Fiona who confirmed that appropriate insurance is held by the Special Yoga Centre and Instructors for this course as soon as the volunteers arrive at the Special Yoga Centre. We would only need to provide appropriate transportation needs for those being transported by the branch.

I have completed all the pre-course reading as required as part of http://www.theyogaacademy.org/ teacher training course. I am really looking forward to the start of the course. I am very lucky that some of my very good friends are yoga teachers and agreed to mentor me as I train to become a yoga teacher. When I complete this course, I intend to let the whole of the MS community benefit from my experience, already I constantly emphasis how important yoga it's philosophy is for everybody, even if you have MS and as able as others.

http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/ The yoga show is tomorrow and I will get to meet everyone who is supporting me! In addition to my normal daily practice I have been incorporating more Sun Salutations to build my stamina for the special event – I just hope I have done enough. I have had a lot of good wishes for Yoga-a-thon. Thank everyone very much for giving me all the positive wishes!

My dilemma - Your Choice!

2009-10-26T08:17:00.001-07:00

The wonderful news that this year’s yoga-aid is supporting The MS society as one of the four due to my inspiration at last year’s yoga show gave me an unexpected dilemma of choosing which charity to support.

This time next week I will be recovering from successfully completing yoga-aid-athon 108 Sun Salutations. I have a conflict- who do I feel like I want to support? - Both The Multiple Sclerosis Society and the SYC both have significance importance in my life. I was left with a difficult dilemma.

I found my spiritual home when I discovered the Special Yoga Centre prior to last year’s yoga show – Helps with Spiritual and my physical Body. It gives me a great sense of people when I enter the front doors. I was pleased to be able to volunteer my time to them, I really wanted this wonderful place to flourish and thrive and continue with its great work. I could never have imagined how important this place was to me. It has become my spiritual home. I inspired the designer of a course to help yoga teachers train to help people with MS.

Also I am proud to be included in the family of the Croydon’s branch of the MS society, since I was diagnosis’s 1998 – Help with my mind and my body. They have helped keep me sane, well relatively sane; they inspired me to begin my charity work that diversified to help so many other charities in my role of charitable coordinator for the Yorkshire Building Society.

I have set up a just giving page for both of my favourite charities and left the choice open to my supporters.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
# See below for the appropriate link to give more details.

#1 http://www.justgiving.com/karenellen/
- Just giving Link as I support the Special Yoga Centre

#2 http://www.justgiving.com/karenellen1/
- Just giving link to as I support the Croydon Branch of the MS society

#3 http://www.specialyoga.org.uk/
- Link to The Special Yoga Centre website

#4 http://www.croydonms.org/
- Link to Croydon branch of the MS society Website

#5 http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/
- Link to my story on the Yoga Show website

#6 http://beatms.mssociety.org.uk/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=1008
- Link to MS society head office and my story as per the above link.

#7 http://inspirationalsmiles.blogspot.com/2009/09/how-yoga-can-help-those-with-ms-fiona.html
- Press Release Special Yoga Centre – Yoga Teachers trained to help those with Multiple Sclerosis.

#8 http://www.yoga-abode.com/wellbeing/yoga_as_transformation_karen
- Link to how yoga has helped my health since diagnosis of MS.

#9 http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=56497914133
- Link to Facebook Group Started with Clive from Yoga Aid - Yoga Aid 4 MS

#10 http://karenfundraising.googlepages.com/
- My story prior to and up to London Marathon 2007

#11 http://www.ybs.co.uk/cf/support.html
- Yorkshire Building Society Charitable foundation

#12 http://inspirationalsmiles.blogspot.com/
- My current journal of my yoga training and life generally

My yoga - My fundraising

2009-10-14T13:30:00.000-07:00

The MS society has been supported in this year’s Yoga Show, following my efforts in last year’s yoga-aid-challenge which also gave me the opportunity to train to teacher yoga. My story is told on the link www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/ plus my story and link under fundraising are on the MS society Head office site. It confirms that my funds will come straight to the Croydon Branch of the MS society. This is the beginning of my yoga based fundraising for our branch.

I’ve finished the official course reading well before the official start on 13^th November – phew!

Now the hard work really begins!!!!

Yoga Aid 2009 - my story

2009-10-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

I enrolled into this year's yoga show and was pleased to see that the MS society is being supported, I was disappointed to not be able to open a a fundraising page on the link - the MS society was the only one of the four charities not to have a link. There is now a direct link from my story to the below just giving website.

In the meantime I have set up a just giving page http://www.justgiving.com/karenellen1/ using a photo of me at last year's yoga show, and a video clip when Clive helped me realised my dream with Simon Lowe's support.

I'm looking forward to reading my messages of support that come with donations to the MS society on www.justgiving.com/karenellen1

The below has been sent to all interested in the Yoga-aid-challenge....

YogaAid has become an extra special feature at the Yoga Show which takes place at London’s Olympia Oct 30, 31 and Nov 1.

It aims to raise money for a range of charities, including the Prison Phoenix Trust, The Special Yoga Centre, MS Society and Yoga Africa Project. Last year’s event saw 150 yoga fans raise £20,000 completing 108 Sun Salutations during the three hour session and included Karen Ellen, an MS sufferer who has found the benefits of practising yoga and yoga breathing one of the best remedies for her symptoms, even enabling her to complete the London Marathon despite her illness!

To read Karen's story : http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/ms/

Event organiser Keith Coomber says: “This year we’re hoping 300 people will attend YogaAid with the view to doubling the amount of money raised, too. It’s a fantastic event and spectacle we’re proud to have originated at the Yoga Show”.

Yoga Aid takes place on Saturday 31st October at 12 noon. For full details and to register, please visit http://www.theyogashow.co.uk/yoga-aid-challenge/

How Yoga can Help those with MS Fiona Agombar October 2009

2009-09-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

How Yoga can Help those with MS

Fiona Agombar October 2009

“My yoga practice helps me with many things – the most being the compassion I’ve learned to give my body to listen to it, even when I don’t wanna hear what it’s saying. Most aren’t aware that yoga involves more than the physical poses including meditation and breath work... my yoga practise has taken me from being upset at my body that has a mind of its own, to a place of empowerment.” So says yoga teacher Suzanne Stephens from Seattle in the USA, on Face Book chat room: Yoga 4 MS that has been set up by Karen Mascoll here in the UK. Karen, who has MS, and who is now training to teach yoga simply adds: “It gave me my life back when I discovered the joy and peace of yoga.”

So what is MS and how can yoga help? First identified about 100 years ago, the medical profession are still unsure what triggers Multiple Sclerosis. MS is an auto-immune disease of the central nervous system which affects around 100,000 people in the UK. The immune system that normally fights infection attacks the myelin sheath around the nerve fibres. This interrupts messages to the brain from the spinal cord and the complex system of nerves that connect to muscles and other body parts, so that messages become distorted, slow down, fail to get through completely or short-circuit. This can then cause problems with movement, senses, emotions and thinking. The myelin sheath can heal if inflammation from an attack reduces. If not, scarring can occur, which leads to long-term damage. MS can be a difficult illness to understand and it may take an array of tests including an MRI and a slow elimination of other conditions before a diagnosis is confirmed.

MS affects individuals in different ways. Some may only ever have one attack. Others may have a few relapses but no major problems. The majority will have what is known as a relapsing and remitting MS. After each attack, most in this category will fail to recover to the level they were at before the relapse, so there is a slow deterioration. A small number, usually diagnosed when they are older, experience disability and a steady worsening of symptoms. Their MS is progressive with no remissions or relapses. This is known as Primary Progressive MS and may end in death. MS is more common in women (apart from Primary MS), with the majority being diagnosed between the ages of 20 to 40. Interestingly, MS is more prevalent in the Northern hemisphere and there is some research to show that lack of vitamin D from sunshine has a role to play in worsening symptoms. There is also evidence to show that diet, (such as excluding meat and dairy products), an adequate vitamin D supply and the ability to deal with stress using a system like yoga may be helpful in slowing down or preventing attacks.

Symptoms of MS include numbness and loss of feeling in limbs, tingling, loss of muscle strength, balance problems, walking difficulties, problems with co-ordination, spasm, stiffness, pain, weakness, incontinence, speech problems, visual problems and chronic hyper-ventilation. Not surprisingly all this may be accompanied by anxiety, mood swings, depression, frustration anger and fear. Severe fatigue is experienced by many. Difficulty in controlling body temperature is also common – frequently those with MS find that they cannot tolerate weather that is too hot or too cold. These symptoms vary – there will be no two people who have the same experience of this very difficult disease. One person may be only mildly affected and another may be extremely disabled.

Bill Feeney, a yoga teacher who worked with those with MS for over twenty years says: “Yoga offers a great deal to people with MS. In this condition there is often tension, blockages to the energy flow and an inability to breathe properly. Many yoga sessions for those with MS will be spent on breathing alone before postures are attempted.” He continues: “One of the most difficult symptoms of MS is the occurrence of muscular spasms which are the basic cause of much pain. We found this to be an area where the use of the breath can be a really effective tool to help release the rigidity of locked muscles. In extreme cases a long period of slow breathing to release both mental and physical tension is needed before any movement can be achieved. The whole of the session should be grounded in relaxation as one of the most common symptoms is fatigue.”

Karen Mascoll, who has the mobility to do stronger asana work, adds to this: “In 2003 I discovered and soon was a passionate advocate of yoga. My practice of yoga has reversed some of my symptoms. The Warrior pose gives strength to my legs, the Tree pose has improved my balance, the Downward Dog invigorates and energises, while Shoulder Stands aids my core stability and my thyroid function.” Karen now attends classes regularly at The Special Yoga Centre – a yoga centre in London dedicated to helping children and adults with health challenges. She adds: “On entering the Special Yoga Centre I felt as though I had come arrived home. I was welcomed into this peaceful calm place and felt I had begun a long-term friendship with the centre and the yoga teachers who taught in a more appropriate way to my MS challenge.” Karen’s own yoga training is being sponsored by Yoga Aid, an Australian charity which helps support those in the yoga community who need financial help.

More than 5,000 people with MS took part in yoga courses and retreats at The Yoga for Health Foundation in the 1980s and 1990s; a yoga residential centre in Bedfordshire, which also ran teacher training courses in remedial yoga. Sadly the Foundation closed in 2006. Bill Feeney, who was the Director of the Foundation is now setting up an MS Teacher Training intensive with myself, which we are running at the Special Yoga Centre in March 2010, as it is clear that more teachers are needed to work in this area; either by helping those with MS to integrate in to a general class, or by setting up specialist groups. (See the end of this feature for websites which list teachers already trained to teach yoga for MS).

People with MS who regularly practise yoga are emphatic: yoga helps them tremendously . Yoga can help provide a way to cope with and diminish stress, which may mean that symptoms and relapses are either reduced or prevented. Working with the breath plays a huge role in correcting hyper-ventilation and reducing the fight and flight response. Learning to still the mind and become present can bring enormous relief and help to diminish emotional problems including fear and depression. Asanas can also help to maintain flexibility, co-ordination and muscle tone without allowing the system to tire as a good yoga teacher will encourage the student to work by listening to their body – unlike traditional aerobic exercise which may exhaust the system.

As Suzanne says: “I can and do have my own personal practise which lifts my heart and make me feel capable in a loving way.” She concludes; “my yoga practise has taken me from being upset at my body....to a place of empowerment...yes I can and yes I will!”

Very many thanks to June Skeggs, Bill Feeney, Jo Manuel, Karen Mascoll and Suzanne Stephens.

Ends.

For further help and information: www.mssociety.org.uk

www.yogaaid.com

You can contact Karen, join the MS chat room and access her blog via Face Book: Karen Mascoll.

Yoga teachers who trained at The Yoga for Health Foundation and who still work with MS may be found listed via www.yoga4het.co.uk or www.yogaforhealthfoundation.co.uk websites. The Yoga for Health and Education Trust (YHET) runs regular retreats and holidays for those with MS which are listed on these sites. Fiona Agombar runs retreats in the UK and abroad for those with ME which are also suitable for those with MS: www.fionaagombar.co.uk

Teaching Yoga to those with MS – a teaching intensive for yoga teachers and health practitioners is on the 6^th and 7^th March 2010. Details and bookings from: info@specialyoga.org.uk www.specialyoga.org.uk

People with MS who would like to have a free class with Bill Feeney and don’t mind being observed by teaching students are very welcome to The Special Yoga centre at 3pm on Saturday 6^th March. All abilities welcome.

Any yoga questions?

2009-09-18T04:54:00.000-07:00

I was considering this month's article and contemplated the subject. I realised I wanted to know what how others questions may be. I have my own practice to help me practice my MS but as part of my teacher training I have been researching how others use yoga to battle this symptom.

I discovered Eric Small and his book “yoga for Multiple Sclerosis” It became clear that this man and I share a vision and goal. He may discovered some techniques that I will want to use, and incorporate into my practice. Link to Eric's web http://www.yogams.com/Book.shtml

"Yoga questions?
Do you have any yoga questions?
Do you have a particular painful or frustrating symptom that you would like to manage?
Would you like to try yoga?

Eric Small had some questions and below I share my response...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Eric Small:What sequences you are using for fatigue?

My response: http://www.yogajournal.com/poses/sequence_builder/ I use to structure my sequence ideas. Normally I start with some deep yogic breathing and different stretches as I lie in the corpse pose. At the moment I am sponge absorbing information that others share and using what I feel is appropriate for my own practice and the practice for my other MS friends.

Eric Small: Do you have sequences for those students that are in wheelchairs?

My response: I attend yoga for MS class at http://www.specialyoga.org.uk/ Christine, my tutor is working to help me develop my skills. Every other Thursday I attend a group for people with MS in the Croydon area. I have friends that are confined to a wheelchair, all of whom are very aware of my passion for yoga and my belief that it can help anyone, no matter how disabled a person may be. I am training to get a qualification as a yoga teacher and be more able to give appropriate guidance.

Eric Small: Do you have sequences for those students that are dealing with the effects of various drugs and the combination of drugs?

My response: I am designing my practice but conscious that everybody’s experience of Multiple Sclerosis is different. There is a whole menagerie of symptoms that can be experienced as part of MS. My intention is to treat each person as an individual and discuss their needs.

Eric Small: I am also curious as to your training and how long you have been studying, and who was your mentoring teacher.

My response: I am about to start my yoga training with the http://www.theyogaacademy.org/level1.html

Eric Small: Have you used my book as a reference.

My response: I have completely my pre-course reading, and researched other useful literature to this list. I have ordered your body and currently am awaiting delivery.

Yoga is Intention

2009-08-18T04:28:00.000-07:00

Yoga is Intention

My yoga study has taught me so much more than how to teach and practice yoga. Not only do our abilities change the more we practice but also as we age, or have a “bad” MS day. Yoga is easily adaptable so that any person, regardless of their ability on the day can gain some benefit.

An example I was given, was of two yoga students. One fiery enthusiastic young man joined a class with his mellower mother. Mum struggled to achieve a balance asana (pose) that her son easily achieved, but she persevered. Her son moved quite easily to the next level, another level and further levels. Her son then began to attempt a more complicated challenging asana. He had obviously reached his current limit and was not able to hold the pose for a moment; he decided to give up trying. It could be easily argued that Mum’s continued perseverance despite her lack of success was a more profound and beneficial yoga practice. Intention is a very important part of yoga.

Learning to control breath (Pranayama) is yoga and DOES give a multitude of benefits. At times of stress, take a minute, close your eyes and just observe the natural flow of breathe and then feel your body relax. When I feel pain, be it with stiff legs or when I give myself my daily Copaxone injection, I have learnt to breathe through and let go of the pain (or at least reduce!) I have been able to fall into a restful night’s sleep by consciously observing each breath and the pauses at the beginning and end of each breath.

Even the intention will give benefit. I may not be able to move a single hair on my head but as long as I put in 100% of effort sincerely trying to do so I will get benefit, even if it is just by observing my breath.

This month I have seen the wonderful Dr MacDonald at Mayday Hospital. She asked if I had seen a physiotherapist. I advised that I had and the physiotherapist had commented that I already was practicing the appropriate exercises, Dr MacDonald and I said in sync, ‘that would be the yoga!’

Fiona Agombar Teacher training workshop

2009-07-08T06:40:00.000-07:00

I missed the first day of the yoga course; I was still recovering from the high temperatures of the previous week. I knew that I could not face the 1½ hour journey and feared I would not be able to concentrate on the course. The moment I realised I could not attend I regretted my enforced choice. I was extremely enthusiastic to attend the Teacher training Yoga course for to help people with M.E. On Sunday I felt slightly stronger and able to attend day 2 of course.

I was determined to endure the travel for 1½ hours journey to Kensal Rise and the Special Yoga Center and benefit from the course. It was a challenging and very enjoyable day; I regretted not attending the first day but intended to absorb as much information as possible. The course was designed for teachers of yoga to learn additional techniques to help those with M.E.

I know M.E. and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are different diseases, however I feel that some of the provisions giving to people with M.E. would be similar to those with MS

I was thankful to be able to join Fiona Agombar for day two of the weekend course. Day two with a recap of Day one, this practical course complimented my essential pre-course reading. I love the physical benefits of yoga. I was one of those people who assumed that practising yoga would lead to greater flexibility and learning to contort positions my body in some precarious poses while keeping my balance. Yoga is about change. In addition to the physical benefits I enjoy the emotional benefits.

There are tools and techniques to utilise with practice yoga:
• Mind - meditation, visualisation, mantra chanting and relaxation
• Breathe – Pranayama (a breathing technique)
• Asana – different physical poses that our bodies can manage without pain.

Begin with a simple asana (pose), such a as lying on the floor (corpse pose - savasana), and then with the guidance of your yoga teacher you may be able to move to more challenging asanas (poses) depending on ability on the day.

It was a long tiring day, but I am so pleased I was able to attend and learn from Fiona. In addition to practical experience it provided me with the opportunity to experience other yoga teachers. To enable me to complete the teacher training workshop Fiona invited me to attend a workshop day in Lewes in February 2010. Thankfully this workshop does not with the course workshops from the yoga academy start in November this year.

Meeting at the Special Yoga centre

2009-06-12T16:40:00.001-07:00

I’m really enjoying my yoga training experience. It’s not easy, but things that are worthwhile are easily. I’m managing my time better. I’m still attending all my classes at the Special Yoga Centre (SYC) as I continue with my pre-course reading. I’ve managed to continue with my studies and deal with my two wonderful teenagers.

I recently coordinated a meeting at the SYC with Clive and Eriko Mayhew, founders of http://yogaaid.com with Jo Manuel, from SYC and from Head Office MS Society, Trish Cunnison. The SYC has the facilities to train others to specialise in yoga for people with MS and yoga aid have advised they will help with the costs. Clive reiterates that i’ve inspired him with the Yoga 4 MS, group on Facebook in addition to my personal yoga teacher training.

I’m keen to accumulate the skills and become a qualified teacher. At last coffee morning my friends shared with me some of own unique MS symptoms and I empathise with each of their needs. Maybe I will be a better Yoga Teacher with my unique understanding of the challenges that MS. At the moment, until I qualify as a yoga teacher I’m happy to share my experience of how yoga has helped me, to give my friends hope.

http://www.croydonms.org/Communicator_Jun_09.asp

Croydon branch communicator May article

2009-06-12T15:30:00.000-07:00

MS to yoga teacher PRESS RELEASE

2009-01-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

MS to Yoga Teacher
The journey with Multiple Sclerosis

In February 1998 following a MRI scan Karen Ellen received the dismal diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis(MS); now at least she knew her enemy, she had feared she was becoming a hypochondriac.Feeling desperately anxious, she feared that this was the end to achieving any of her goals or dreams and perhaps would not even be able to look after her children. Deeply upset and unsettled in a “dark diagnosis year” she set about positively devoting her energies to help the Croydon Branch of the MS Society.Some of my many symptoms included extreme fatigue and weight loss. Optic Neuritis (an inflamed optic nerve) affected and blurred her vision. She was really unstable on her legs, with extreme sensations in both her arms and legs.. She has problems with swallowing and choking and at the other end, suffered with a lack of bladder and bowel control. These are not all the symptoms but give a fair illustration of the symptoms experienced with MS.In 2003, as well as starting medical treatments to stabilise the condition, she discovered yoga, a practice that she truly believes has reversed some of the symptoms. The warrior pose gives strength to legs, the tree pose improved to balance, the downward facing dog invigorates and energises, while shoulder stands aid core stability and improves thyroid function. In summary countless Sun Salutations with numerous specific yoga asanas ensure increased strength, balance, calm and energised as it completely enhances the quality of her life.The MS Society society and especially the Croydon branch helped Karen survive the devastating news and still help her with the ongoing emotional, physical and practical problems since diagnosis in 1998. She is fortunate to have the support of a family that truly understands the issues and the multitude of problems and various associated MS symptoms. Karen says “Even though too ill to work, I can confidently state that yoga helps me to survive this stressful period and even though not fit enough to return to work, it ensures that at least I have some quality and peace in my life”.“Initially I struggled with poses and found the balancing asanas nearly impossible, though being blessed with natural flexibility helped. Sheer perseverance with my yoga practice allowed me to see the incredible benefits of yoga. I have regained stability and strength in my legs and helped my balance. To deal with pain, I use pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. By cultivating these practices I feel better equipped to manage the on-going pain caused by MS”.Karen has put the increased energy from practicing yoga to very good use and trained to run the London Marathon in 2007. “Yoga has helped me to remain present with my training and combined with a nutritious vegetarian diet always makes me acutely aware of how I am treating my body. I completed the marathon in an excruciating 13 hours, stretching to loosen my muscles as the pain intensified and breathing to help the pain pass”. Since discovering yoga Karen has for the last 4 years attended the annual Yoga Show held at Olympia and in 2008 was given the opportunity to take part in Yoga Aid, a challenge to complete 108 sun salutations while raising money for a charitable causes. She choose to raise money for the Special Yoga Centre, one of 4 charities being supported.The Special Yoga Center and Yoga Aid, brought two of Karen’s passions together: yoga and helping others. It was when she visited T Special Yoga Centre, based in north west London, she felt like she had arrived home. “I was welcomed like a family member into the peaceful center. I soon felt peaceful and calm in this serene location”.

On Sunday 2nd November at 7:30am Karen arrived at The Yoga Show with 150 others ready to take part in the challenge. At the end of 3 hours and after completing all 108 Sun Salutations, Karen was invited to the front where Clive Mayhew the founder of Yoga Aid, told everyone of Karen’s own challenge with MS and her dream of becoming a Yoga Teacher herself. To help her with this dream Clive announced that the costs of yoga teacher training would be covered and the most appropriate course would be found for her by Simon Low, one of the 12 teachers taking part in Yoga Aid.

“I was stunned, amazed and incredibly shocked that my dream would now be a reality. As I sat overwhelmed in the center of the group photograph taken after we had completed our Sun Salutations, Clive said that he hoped I would one day lead the salutations at Yoga Aid in the future”. “It is my next goal”

Happy New Year !

2009-01-05T11:52:00.000-08:00

I have today send the information to the Yoga Academy and impatiently waiting for a reply. Victoria has volunteered to mentor me and Thendara has agreed to be my overseas mentor. I lucky to have many willing to share their skills with me.

From this moment I am completely focused on acquiring skills I need to show others how to improve their life through yoga and wholistic living. I am going to design my own bubble people to illustrate what I have learned.