tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62205919686520404392024-03-05T06:17:09.267-08:00Alive InsideScullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-44903244342736841802015-04-01T13:29:00.002-07:002015-04-01T13:30:37.610-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hey guys, it is unpopular opinion time…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">specifically about this stuff</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqaBgcjQmgxvcJXG1wXjqQbF6O5H9cPb4_WpPnPpPuNPpbL4T1OxsIq1HwjpY65bg5eAdiGkRleNsNdePYGa4c3eTDBtN0tpqJskU01XoFU35tm3TqzebHCTTfmksR6kUZyrv5h7VSLE0/s1600/41fPLFGYNoL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqaBgcjQmgxvcJXG1wXjqQbF6O5H9cPb4_WpPnPpPuNPpbL4T1OxsIq1HwjpY65bg5eAdiGkRleNsNdePYGa4c3eTDBtN0tpqJskU01XoFU35tm3TqzebHCTTfmksR6kUZyrv5h7VSLE0/s1600/41fPLFGYNoL.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have seen spray rosin becoming more prevalent in aerial
class rooms. I notice students slathering up in the sticky substance before
even trying to climb the silks. Rather than gliding up the silks it sounds like
you are rolling up Velcro curtains. And let’s not even discuss the residue that
is left of the fabric.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spray rosin definitely has a time and purpose but every class
should not be one of them. I know you all think that the rosin is improving
your grip but the truth is the spray is not doing you any favors. It is a temporary
and artificial solution at best. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are a habitual user of grip aid you are not training
your grip to the maximum potential. I see students who are progressed to the
more advanced levels but do not trust their inversions without sticky
assistance. Their training session is crippled if they forget the rosin bottle or if it starts to wear off after a few minutes in the air.
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t want to offend or shame anyone but please consider if you would benefit from focusing on grip and see if there are changes you want to make in your training. If we put the same effort into training our grip that is often reserved for the core we would all be much safe and confident aerialists. As aerialist our hands are one of our greatest tools so make them one you can rely on!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvk-eB8sgwCeTSe-Y9Ri1aQdjQ3_pTkQMKM8NphBQEtl9mKEA8BREiUmHcxmqDYGmZTr6BDxgWajbKIH2mMzWzgfzvO8K1-ztycm5-dtoxLUCv4mczJcZ48bf-hMwCfZTtjxf-gYjkBM/s1600/hang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvk-eB8sgwCeTSe-Y9Ri1aQdjQ3_pTkQMKM8NphBQEtl9mKEA8BREiUmHcxmqDYGmZTr6BDxgWajbKIH2mMzWzgfzvO8K1-ztycm5-dtoxLUCv4mczJcZ48bf-hMwCfZTtjxf-gYjkBM/s1600/hang.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some suggestions for improving your grip strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Take your first set of climbs without rosin and then shoot
for longer and longer sessions without it. We don’t start with killer grip but
you can work up to it.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tap into your inner sloth and try just hanging from the
silks. Challenge yourself and see how long you can go.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Be cognizant of your grip and make every finger contribute.
Start with your pinky and roll up through your index when grabbing the silk</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tiny finger exercises such as repeatedly pretending to flick
water from your fingers or grabbing and releasing something imaginary can help
warm up and work those muscles associated with grip.</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzr6pTRGbaOD_Z-rQUp6hxPj1l_2LS7kiyoHq1wTpHVzho3PUqhx7vKnFYtNt31BMmpCgNPCcV2zG3xEMHBdwx580YUwMk2C-BmgL0-0Pwj_0hmnJy9TKsAE0zapsUwJsb2YMwRM8JOyw/s1600/10987734_10104713356522641_7812804332584396081_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzr6pTRGbaOD_Z-rQUp6hxPj1l_2LS7kiyoHq1wTpHVzho3PUqhx7vKnFYtNt31BMmpCgNPCcV2zG3xEMHBdwx580YUwMk2C-BmgL0-0Pwj_0hmnJy9TKsAE0zapsUwJsb2YMwRM8JOyw/s1600/10987734_10104713356522641_7812804332584396081_n.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Dan Funkhouser</td></tr>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-66610565595773636822014-11-04T10:17:00.000-08:002014-12-12T11:46:30.388-08:00The One Where I Run Away To Join The Circus<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi there,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know we haven't talked in a while but let me explain why.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0ATI0ZfJTYhKMSekWu_zd7qrf_ouFBTa6-y91nVTBfuoYNqEBVY5OEr3mTHrbYKrLIe-nnExJSyygerbeLZYXAQuMkW9XvBXLk-TPJydFPILD5ZMpAYpndi0CPuU8f30x0hUiQsImmY/s1600/balloons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0ATI0ZfJTYhKMSekWu_zd7qrf_ouFBTa6-y91nVTBfuoYNqEBVY5OEr3mTHrbYKrLIe-nnExJSyygerbeLZYXAQuMkW9XvBXLk-TPJydFPILD5ZMpAYpndi0CPuU8f30x0hUiQsImmY/s1600/balloons.jpg" height="320" width="202" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Photo by <a href="http://www.darkroomlament.com/">Amanda Rebholz</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Life has been really busy between a career I thought I should have and my passion for the arts. For the last year I have been leading one life behind a desk in an office and another in front of an audience on a stage. I have been doing a balancing act that came at the expense of my friends, free time and emotional well-being. My two lives are wildly incompatible and the moment where I have to choose has been rapidly approaching.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had been avoiding making any decision until the beginning of October when I found out that my current position in the company I have been with since receiving my Supply Chain degree was in jeopardy. It's not like this came as a shock to me since I have been unhappy for some time but it was an emotional upset in that it forced me to make some tough decisions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had been plotting the safe expected route all of my life and only allowing myself to dabble in things that brought me joy. I had been conditioned to believe that if I did all the things that were expected of me there was some kind of distinct pay off in the end. I think I had imagined some kind of award or banner with the text "You did it! Now you will live forever and never die" The joke was on me because the longer I have followed the safe and expected path the more I realize there is not celebration of perfectly achieved success at the end nor does it exist.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to take a few days to consider my options, receive some good advice and look for inspiration. I chose to use that time to answer some hard questions. For the first time I answered truthfully even if the implications could potentially shatter the world I had carefully constructed for myself. I could write volumes on the baggage that was opened and the fears confronted but they will be different for everyone so there is only so much value to commit it to writing. Let us just say there were good things about never examining my happiness too closely. I never had to question if I was satisfied because society told me I was and I grieve the loss of an old life where everything was simple. Alternatively I saw opportunities I had never allowed myself to consider before and ways of being happy that I thought were for others and not me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of it all I decided that rather than looking for another corporate career job immediately I was going to take some time to see where I could go with the aerial and performing arts. It was probably the hardest choice I have ever made. I was giving up the stable life I had been raised with for something unpredictable and while it was terrifying stepping into the unknown the sense of relief I felt was immediate.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd51M6cNtGd-TVWwTQ3si5TpUtPu2snXz4Rdwwrrbq3m1mb2ts4iFUMRKW0fxddybHCuzv_GDaOVnOyU4I-uOofF_JbeTkYUQcJYX3QnOqghXfigHNWV9DnGWbNXD3LUgUjfHPNhmT0kE/s1600/1496058_10103251937772531_1394801773_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd51M6cNtGd-TVWwTQ3si5TpUtPu2snXz4Rdwwrrbq3m1mb2ts4iFUMRKW0fxddybHCuzv_GDaOVnOyU4I-uOofF_JbeTkYUQcJYX3QnOqghXfigHNWV9DnGWbNXD3LUgUjfHPNhmT0kE/s1600/1496058_10103251937772531_1394801773_o.jpg" height="320" width="203" /></span></i></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Photo by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photographybyhannahhavok">Hannah Havok</a></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It has now been a month since making the decision to leave the traditional work force but my life is still in the process of decoupling from it and will continue to be for the next 3 months. While I have already turned in my letter of resignation I am staying with the company a little longer to help my boss find and train my replacement. I continue to field questions from strangers at work who want to understand what my plan is and why. I cannot answer them with any sort of certainty because I do not know the answers but that is part of what I like about this new life. I get to make it what I want and make the rules for my success.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There have been ups and downs in the process and there will continue to be. For example while I did not receive any particular satisfaction from my contribution to the company I was cocooned from failure by a behemoth corporation. In making the decision to leave I can no longer be a passive cog in a large machine instead I have to be my own entity. I will now feel failure immediately and acutely but if I succeed I know it is because of my will to bring something into the world. I am lucky in that the new opportunities I have already received after making my decision are filling me with a sense of hope for what the future has to offer...even the scary bits.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As I am writing this I know it sounds like the decision to leave the day job for a dream was simple or obvious. It isn’t and it wasn’t. Some nights I cry because I don’t know how it will turn out other days I get on a lyra and think this is what I was meant to do. I continue to be thankful every day for my friends and family who have contributed advice or supported my decision in some way. I don’t know how this will turn out in the end all I know for sure right now it that I can try.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are interested in helping my start my new life in the circus and performing arts please consider visiting my <a href="http://www.gofundme.com/scully">Go Fund Me Campaign</a>. There are a couple of large investments that will go a long way to helping me becoming and independent performer. I have tried to create a number of perks at the different contribution level as a thank you for your support.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="338" title="Click Here to donate!" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="258"><param name="movie" value="//funds.gofundme.com/Widgetflex.swf" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="page=scully&template=0" /><param name="wmode" value="transparent" /><embed allowScriptAccess="always" src="//funds.gofundme.com/Widgetflex.swf" quality="high" flashVars="page=scully&template=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="258" height="338"></embed></object> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So this is where I am in my artistic journey. What are your current struggles? What are your dreams? Leave me a comment below.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am going to leave you with a quote from Bill Watterson that has been helping me…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"Creating a life that reflects your values and satisfies your soul is a rare achievement. In a culture that relentlessly promotes avarice and excess as the good life, a person happy doing his own work is usually considered an eccentric, if not a subversive. Ambition is only understood if it's to rise to the top of some imaginary ladder of success. Someone who takes an undemanding job because it affords him the time to pursue other interests and activities is considered a flake. A person who abandons a career in order to stay home and raise children is considered not to be living up to his potential-as if a job title and salary are the sole measure of human worth.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>You'll be told in a hundred ways, some subtle and some not, to keep climbing, and never be satisfied with where you are, who you are, and what you're doing. There are a million ways to sell yourself out, and I guarantee you'll hear about them.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>To invent your own life's meaning is not easy, but it's still allowed, and I think you'll be happier for the trouble."</i></span>Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-85615680737751798832014-06-03T13:02:00.000-07:002014-06-03T13:04:12.970-07:00The One That's Still Good<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember when you dropped the last chip on the ground and you picked it up, inspected it for dirt and then popped it in your mouth? You know that brief exposure to the elements didn’t negate the delicious of the chip or its suitability as a snack. The 10 second rule saved us once again from wasting what is still good.
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The moral of the 10 second rule has been important this month since I am simultaneously working on more aerial pieces than ever before including 2 duets, 1 silks burlesque piece and an audition number. I also noticed several of my fellow aerialists are struggling to keep up with show cases, competition applications and their own performance ambitions. While we are all trying to juggle these competing requirements without losing our minds the ethics of recycling material were discussed on more than one occasion.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayXydND82Yv9qGyj4YkQxoZ6AQSGUCP8oYXKNhACUCQw76xarIRlf-yE7Y20lsxcUNPDup9fmaVHB6CED2K1yTzcd7O1PgvG5T7mk-WDC0yqLHfmQCquchabTD1vRtMQ1Vrxi7cWwHes/s1600/Studio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_lm_547302="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayXydND82Yv9qGyj4YkQxoZ6AQSGUCP8oYXKNhACUCQw76xarIRlf-yE7Y20lsxcUNPDup9fmaVHB6CED2K1yTzcd7O1PgvG5T7mk-WDC0yqLHfmQCquchabTD1vRtMQ1Vrxi7cWwHes/s1600/Studio.jpg" lta="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The knee jerk reaction is to create something new, wonderful and stunning for each show. I have to admit that when I first considered revisiting material it felt like a cheat but then I realized I should be applying the 10 second rule to more than just my food. I had worked on a silks piece for 3 months and only performed it once for a very select audience…it was still good. Of course there were changes in musical selection and a move to tailor the dance for a new audience but in the end this will allowed my best efforts to go further. Rather than scrambling to have something completely different for every show I want to give the audience a polished performance from my library that has been custom fit for them. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhh6LMhmQWx4mbsaZAAVvaihsv843PrYyuRkRQRA_oRT9b2-00clY-HSoPD5W6CtLkQpgafvNmQZxVHhKHAAut_yGfDuK8FICknk942tVI0tmYHXHP0GP6u1hbmXBonf2BdXsKj9_RfuQ/s1600/Split+vertical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" closure_lm_507014="null" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhh6LMhmQWx4mbsaZAAVvaihsv843PrYyuRkRQRA_oRT9b2-00clY-HSoPD5W6CtLkQpgafvNmQZxVHhKHAAut_yGfDuK8FICknk942tVI0tmYHXHP0GP6u1hbmXBonf2BdXsKj9_RfuQ/s1600/Split+vertical.jpg" height="400" lta="true" width="353" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This approach won’t work for every performance but it does give me some breathing room. I feel free to develop new material at my own pace knowing I can call on acts that I did not discard after one show.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I guess what I am trying to say is scoop your performance chips off the floor and savor the crap out of them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you ever feel pressure when creating new material? Do you sample your greatest hits? Leave me a comment below. </span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-59733286773391098842014-04-30T13:14:00.003-07:002014-04-30T13:16:37.193-07:00The One About Splits...kind of<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I have neglected my blogging duties but I assure you it is not due to any inactivity. I have been trying to navigate a number of new opportunities this year and I am not entirely sure yet what my take away has been. I feel like I have yet to synthesis some useful bit of information I might impart. So instead of some technique or theory I have been pondering I want to take a second to remind people to celebrate accomplishment no matter how small and love the process. </div>
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My example came yesterday while practicing a new aerial dance when one of my instructors mentioned that my splits are improving. Because historically splits are my worst skill I was confident that she was just be being polite. For the last year I have spent my time with dancers who have had effortless perfect splits and over splits. During the first few months I lived in abject shame when it came time to stretch. All the girls would fan out their legs perfectly and I would be sitting on the floor with my legs at an acute angle. To an outsider it probably looked like I was militantly resisting the exercise when in reality I was trying my damnedest and failing spectacularly. I have continued to work in tiny increments towards being more flexible but I have accepted that a full split is not something I am likely to achieve. Despite a pessimistic outlook, my curiosity was piqued by the comment so I decided to compare my splits from last night to where I was last year. To my surprise, while I am still a few inches shy of flat splits, my best effort has significantly improved.</div>
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This isolated example reminds me that during all the time we spend training it is easy to focus on what we can do today and want to achieve tomorrow. Sometimes it is easy to forget where we started and what we should be proud of. </div>
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Have you ever focused on a goal so much that you missed the other accomplishments along the way? What are you proud of today? Leave me a comment below. </div>
Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-22899371648637711792014-02-09T19:02:00.000-08:002014-03-04T08:22:07.918-08:00The One About Simplicity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently I have enrolled in an aerial variations class which has lead me to think about exploring the known and what benefits it might hold for your practice.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMMUZqZZi6z30pq0BaQ9HqvnTzKiZozmKhmg7mLCaAAqD6TztQjPeXXQT9wseQmq4oq6uaweWuP2ImYO2cz4qJPk7fFmeffuvVN0H41W0rtdaKyP8xL6ucwzKRmwfXgh3f2OuZC_RGBM/s1600/1538907_10101998251654557_847750615_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqMMUZqZZi6z30pq0BaQ9HqvnTzKiZozmKhmg7mLCaAAqD6TztQjPeXXQT9wseQmq4oq6uaweWuP2ImYO2cz4qJPk7fFmeffuvVN0H41W0rtdaKyP8xL6ucwzKRmwfXgh3f2OuZC_RGBM/s1600/1538907_10101998251654557_847750615_n.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Jennifer Cody's students showing 6 variations on a single move</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have found it takes a lot of guts to spend time developing around moves or skills your might have learned in the first few months of practice. For me there is fear of not including enough fancy moves in my own routines. Conversely, many people who I look up to in the hoop and aerial community have an emphasis on mastering and expanding on what are often thought of as basics. Some of my favorite performances don't involve lots of tricks but about the quality of core skills and inventiveness around known moves. It is legitimately more exiting for me to not know what will happen next rather than just see a difficult trick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have decide to try and be more mindful of whether I am filling my work with flash or innovation. To that end I have been working on a standing challenge we have in the variants class to develop a whole routine around a single base move. It's significantly slower for me than just stringing together tricks but I think the final product will have a more organic feeling in the movements. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>A Simple Manta To Remember</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <i> </i></span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When first joining a skilled community there is a desire to be included. Like any good student you practice the basics to become accepted by your peers. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You spend time building a vocabulary. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UgERrIucP1heUZXhifaz-DVCYodoG1tH0e1oi3zm3TiFMO12RO59DSCINSwVD5wJJ6YhK8K_xyYVlgTvfwP6d0pZTVs-VNMIrMh_2rQgquo18WDsEyxdK2Ju78bM6laOlYOnEoRspUM/s1600/1904071_1400959096829198_2030755771_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UgERrIucP1heUZXhifaz-DVCYodoG1tH0e1oi3zm3TiFMO12RO59DSCINSwVD5wJJ6YhK8K_xyYVlgTvfwP6d0pZTVs-VNMIrMh_2rQgquo18WDsEyxdK2Ju78bM6laOlYOnEoRspUM/s1600/1904071_1400959096829198_2030755771_n.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Photo By Nikki Arnold</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You discuss technique</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdq9UzL0JHPHAo3G87IToa_dngclY3WX6gOd07gppVuaAL7QZGqH-2sxbDz7m-ISw-12-JkzxJIgYJnA1ptmbb5bqae6tivMbKL6QQzvq0CEYHY1QyHnohTZf-MilvH1ZBMQIaxCG7HZ8/s1600/IMG_9273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdq9UzL0JHPHAo3G87IToa_dngclY3WX6gOd07gppVuaAL7QZGqH-2sxbDz7m-ISw-12-JkzxJIgYJnA1ptmbb5bqae6tivMbKL6QQzvq0CEYHY1QyHnohTZf-MilvH1ZBMQIaxCG7HZ8/s1600/IMG_9273.jpg" height="400" width="301" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Hoop Path Point Technique<br />Photo by Hannah Havok</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But don't forget your first words.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3lrgO_k0GnKuZdbqc75GGl-DMjQjnicSlRygevgJcRhnC9utc7FTMEH-lNvefMNUJOmijUs_yNgagE1MtaIhX5pP1kj6gxUWPHHcc524vEJuIYkYD67PfFFrjkJBmeCb3OeG2wa3THI/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy3lrgO_k0GnKuZdbqc75GGl-DMjQjnicSlRygevgJcRhnC9utc7FTMEH-lNvefMNUJOmijUs_yNgagE1MtaIhX5pP1kj6gxUWPHHcc524vEJuIYkYD67PfFFrjkJBmeCb3OeG2wa3THI/s1600/3.jpg" height="400" width="350" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember simple can be beautiful</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8dd2ay-o52hNJjG5jnQsXzNTpVoUiqmHzlyV0Ykzfq1L4mu36oXPRlWgRJX03qJcAfeaFlFwhdo115tUDC4hvjOLBRzrzGV8PVTzatI7_BI_d_3ULl_SXp31waxX1gZVYVhJoidbIHM/s1600/IMG_9170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN8dd2ay-o52hNJjG5jnQsXzNTpVoUiqmHzlyV0Ykzfq1L4mu36oXPRlWgRJX03qJcAfeaFlFwhdo115tUDC4hvjOLBRzrzGV8PVTzatI7_BI_d_3ULl_SXp31waxX1gZVYVhJoidbIHM/s1600/IMG_9170.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Photo by Hannah Havok</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simple is complex</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQf21t0VwH9ZI9lFtmb1KcjQuiWnGhZJfggUfpmtjlOceCDPXc-TY_x98LBrktZgRN1MXcTXjR6kKTvpjUdOL-mIBQludrNLq9Y1o8rq09P4dufukTLcBvtt0Eyxsz9qOyCw3n5gJKRA/s1600/IMG_9275+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQf21t0VwH9ZI9lFtmb1KcjQuiWnGhZJfggUfpmtjlOceCDPXc-TY_x98LBrktZgRN1MXcTXjR6kKTvpjUdOL-mIBQludrNLq9Y1o8rq09P4dufukTLcBvtt0Eyxsz9qOyCw3n5gJKRA/s1600/IMG_9275+copy.jpg" height="400" width="290" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">HoopPath style Balance<br />Photo by Hannah Havok</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is what I have been thinking about for the last couple of weeks. What has been your inner mantra during practice?</span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-88278072389426464372013-12-28T18:28:00.001-08:002013-12-28T18:57:46.852-08:00The One About Planning Choreography<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much of my first foray into circus was spent primarily with what is considered flow arts. Hooping, poi, juggling, fans and devil sticks all fall into this category. They are called flow because innovation through free manipulation of the tools is encouraged. I enjoy this area of practice because you are encourage to try new things even if you are not sure of the outcome because the penalty for failure is low. I find the surprises that were unplanned to be some of the most rewarding during any flow session.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcof_f1-pFrkW7PH-oNjBhv3PeCBVwbzPzbjcejvi53oqfV76LLFejVSLFzWAcbYQvfGZW7chicQhOkPcRo6cv70jHlBwpUYVSkAGwCLTV-v77W35fDs2-HzP5ex6dAIUICHEcv5_OtrQ/s1600/Hooping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcof_f1-pFrkW7PH-oNjBhv3PeCBVwbzPzbjcejvi53oqfV76LLFejVSLFzWAcbYQvfGZW7chicQhOkPcRo6cv70jHlBwpUYVSkAGwCLTV-v77W35fDs2-HzP5ex6dAIUICHEcv5_OtrQ/s400/Hooping.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Deep Ellum play time<br />Photo by Hannah Havok</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I decided to take up aerial arts there was a completely different mind set because you must carefully consider each move before execution to ensure your own safety. Even if you are not sure if you can accomplish a trick you still need an exit strategy. In order to perform publicly you need to be able to plan at least some rudimentary choreography you can call on in the air.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At first I was completely overwhelmed at the idea of needing routines and structuring them from scratch. Here are some steps I have found that help me organize my thoughts when planning choreography.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nPUGzxcsOZYAQu8b3hPrMa_XIxa6hwxkiIY11jKkhY1hNv5EYvrRVZeSXERdNTUG5nwABS-dhUkmarok6clSl5exwdKmkMe29LxitI9gP13XFr2gKnkp4u5Yu_y7xTnd2MesHvBnh1I/s1600/Choregraphy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nPUGzxcsOZYAQu8b3hPrMa_XIxa6hwxkiIY11jKkhY1hNv5EYvrRVZeSXERdNTUG5nwABS-dhUkmarok6clSl5exwdKmkMe29LxitI9gP13XFr2gKnkp4u5Yu_y7xTnd2MesHvBnh1I/s400/Choregraphy.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">MTPS 2013<br />Photo by Don Curry</span></i></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Duration</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is probably one of the first things I consider when planning any routine. You want to consider how much stamina you have to perform the routine. Do not plan a routine that is so long your exhaust yourself and then leave your audience with an overwhelming feeling of “meh” because you can not finish strong. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Music</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once you have determined the duration of your performance you can now select some accompaniment. This is probably the most fun part of the process but also tricky. Remember to consider each song as a whole. It might have a catchy hook that’s fun to sing along with in the car but will be repetitive to the audience after the first refrain. What I usually look for in a song for performance is one that has several distinct moods within the song. Changes in instrumentation or tempo are usually good candidates that give you options for striking poses or switching between actions and styles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Consider where you want to put your tricks. If you have some really tough inversions you might want to put them earlier in the performance when you have the most amount of stamina. Alternatively if you have a really large drop or something where you are going to lose height it might make sense to do those later in the routine. My suggestion is to pick a few key moves you think will compliment each other during the routine fill in the rest of the performance around them</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">MTPS 2013<br />Photo By Don Curry</span></i></td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Less is more</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you start to design your routine don’t get caught up in trying to add too many tricks. Often tricks take longer to execute than you would anticipate and adding content to a routine is far easier than trying to take out material later. Your movements from one pose to the next are as much a part of the routine as the tricks. You never want to look like you are rushing to make it to your next position in time so give yourself some breathing room. Do not be afraid to hold poses or move slowly so the audience can see what you are doing and enjoy your actions. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is not only important to be flexible body but also in mind so be open to changes in your choreography. All of my routines have experienced a major change at some point during the rehearsal process and have been better for it. Once you have your first round of choreography take a look at the routine for anything that does not work. If something look awkward or wrong try experimenting with different tricks or order to your routine. Don’t ever get so attached to a trick that you are afraid to move it or lose it. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfw1XdxAv2LCn3ob9Nx_mawbvxDwro9T_H5ZU_RoqYFBnycrBOQkLkqdOsegVRvMmDuSfwemzn9c-oO73RqNaqSFCGXvy721N5QdVThux-r_hmPyNKbDErionzF5y8FIIDKHZwoSow6k/s1600/hang2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSfw1XdxAv2LCn3ob9Nx_mawbvxDwro9T_H5ZU_RoqYFBnycrBOQkLkqdOsegVRvMmDuSfwemzn9c-oO73RqNaqSFCGXvy721N5QdVThux-r_hmPyNKbDErionzF5y8FIIDKHZwoSow6k/s400/hang2.jpg" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rehearsal at Lone Star Circus</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Choreography is not something I previously had a lot of experience with but when you are going to perform it quickly become a necessity. There are probably more formal ways to approach this process but I thought I would share some techniques that have worked for me thus far. What techniques do you use when planning to put on a show?</span></div>Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-40819084931029165192013-11-21T13:41:00.000-08:002014-02-11T14:44:50.724-08:00The One About Practice Vs Performance<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the last several months I spent a significant amount of time preparing for my first aerial performance. While I faced the normal challenges you might expect like picking choreography and music I found it was some seemingly simple tasks that I struggled with the most. Most notable of those simple tasks was moving with what I would consider performance worthy poise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What do I mean exactly?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, what makes people want to watch you?</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP1ZOyT822NhfrIlA3Zecu6yBvuzZvy0VxT6qzNzP8qCOe1LMoSMt1eAlxln1elW-u_VS6dl24kywF7IWUytRi8bIUTHUWO6tTxvLR_yeo74cCHy75kPTTVpCrTpfa0dIQiQSpB8s7WA/s1600/MTPS+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP1ZOyT822NhfrIlA3Zecu6yBvuzZvy0VxT6qzNzP8qCOe1LMoSMt1eAlxln1elW-u_VS6dl24kywF7IWUytRi8bIUTHUWO6tTxvLR_yeo74cCHy75kPTTVpCrTpfa0dIQiQSpB8s7WA/s400/MTPS+2013.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Miss Texas Pole Star 2013 Performance<br />Photo by Don Curry</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would see my instructor glide up the silk and be completely enthralled with how elegant they looked. When it was finally my turn to try I would scrabbling on the fabric for a bit and then eventually accomplish the thing. Not having any background in professional performance it seemed that getting ready for the stage should be as simple as acquiring the knowledge and strength to do tricks. However, I gamely attend class every week and ran through the same poses and exercises as my teachers and continued to notice something distinctly different between how they looked and how I looked. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSjUmSDqZgbsxjSTTEGANTE_H9aWTapzksYjYFAKwNbGBiwcLOct1S-kAuRE6VkCDbpJF_GVv7O9VvMx9fsit-iYkoB-qGNdaijVVaGwln4tGf9biW_5qeXFZrRWujvpk0m497r5TCks/s1600/gazelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSjUmSDqZgbsxjSTTEGANTE_H9aWTapzksYjYFAKwNbGBiwcLOct1S-kAuRE6VkCDbpJF_GVv7O9VvMx9fsit-iYkoB-qGNdaijVVaGwln4tGf9biW_5qeXFZrRWujvpk0m497r5TCks/s400/gazelle.jpg" height="162" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Luckily, with the help of some mentors during my preparations I started learning other equally important skills to making a polished aerial performer that are not necessarily taught in the classroom. Most of these things were fairly basic and not directly linked to overall ability or skill but make a huge difference to how you practice and most importantly how you appear to an observer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I only had to remember 3 words to make a routine performance worthy it would be</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Intention, Extension & Tension.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Intention</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvla2ppeujmvUSlHPir8kS6esH4E5o34kxSJaJd1vv7kFOFAfJCRWXs_NSNKuQ9sGDsLR6vJFpaWVJbnWBHqqQtukxV0e1lh-r53sEwiyXy-1jE6cYCDE8Cm-zGwWXRAVFiXJ15UIcP0/s1600/Moon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbvla2ppeujmvUSlHPir8kS6esH4E5o34kxSJaJd1vv7kFOFAfJCRWXs_NSNKuQ9sGDsLR6vJFpaWVJbnWBHqqQtukxV0e1lh-r53sEwiyXy-1jE6cYCDE8Cm-zGwWXRAVFiXJ15UIcP0/s400/Moon.jpg" height="172" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One week our aerial hoop class was observed by a retired ballerina who now contracts with dance troupes to refine their routines. She had volunteered to give our class some pointers on performance. She sat quietly for the hour as we gave the lesson our best efforts. At the end of class we nervously clustered around to hear what she thought at which time she told us something that changed my practice from that day forward.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While she thought the discipline was amazing she found our efforts ultimately boring. It didn’t really have anything to do with our ability or skill but about our intention. We only worked with the end goal in mind when we should be considering every move we made. We should approach the apparatus like a partner with whom we coordinate all our actions. We should never rush through a mount or re-position just to get to a trick in practice. The audience is seeing everything leading up to your trick so just as much effort and concentration should be spent on getting there as perfecting your final position. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Treat each moment like a performance in your mind.</em> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Extension</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This goes hand in hand with intention. If you are thinking through all of your movements you should be thinking of what you are doing with your whole body from the tips of your fingers to the ends of your toes. So often we fail to celebrate movement and instead concentrate on points of strength or articulation and let the rest of our body be dragged along in its wake. We have learned to be prey amongst predators with eyes averted and limiting nonessential motion in our hands and feet. While this is a great strategy for avoiding predation by a T-rex it’s not very engaging for the audience. By allowing every movement to flow from the starting point out to your extremities you bring fluidity and grace to your performance. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One visualization that a lot of my instructors use time and again is imagining an extension of some sort that continuous beyond where you end. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are different examples like strings or lights…you can even think of laser beams if it makes you happy. What is important is that you imagine traveling out along those lines as you preform because it brings animation to every part of your body from the top of your head to the bottoms of your feet and out through your hands. You should even extend your laser like focus to your eyes and use it to bring your awareness to the audience and let them know you are watching them. BECOME THE PREDATOR! (okay that got weird but hopefully it helped) </span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where your gaze falls or the angle of your fingers can change the audience's preception</span></em></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tension</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3pd4hiNRK1zSJ5E_uM1pW7zlhJR9_fzJmzrDQki7cpAy7H6ZTbpD4VV4lLO_nV0-uLC5XtlJuhh63U9ImpLVBYpdLYNUiX_U5gcH8c_sEhwr7QE939FlbLs6qzNv-fvZHgVX7t21ZZQ/s1600/vup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg3pd4hiNRK1zSJ5E_uM1pW7zlhJR9_fzJmzrDQki7cpAy7H6ZTbpD4VV4lLO_nV0-uLC5XtlJuhh63U9ImpLVBYpdLYNUiX_U5gcH8c_sEhwr7QE939FlbLs6qzNv-fvZHgVX7t21ZZQ/s400/vup.jpg" height="245" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have done the first two steps you should be well on your way to achieving and maintaining tension but it is something worthy of its own consideration. One of my aerial trainers paid me the compliment that I was progressing well in my knowledge of aerials but I needed to remember to engage my whole body while on the silk if I ever wanted to perform. At first I was confused about what she meant because I felt like I was working my butt off every class. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fortunately for me she had an exercise that immediately connects you with the feeling of engaging your entire body. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you lay on the floor and bring yourself into a boat position where you are balanced on your bottom and someone poked your shoulders you should rock back and forth like a ship on the water. You are connecting your body so now you can move as a single unit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you ever feel like you are not working part of your body to stay in the air it is probably noticeable to the audience. When you are supporting yourself with your feet and you release tension from your arms it looks like you are just dangling instead of dramatically climbing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Engaging your body has a huge immediately visible change but requires constant focus.<o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If you imagine the three words during every practice something as simple as raising your leg can go from a utilitarian action to a captivating performance. I am still working on this myself so I cannot claim to be an expert but I do know they have made a difference in preparing to share what I have learned with an audience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">These are just my suggestions so feel free to share your tips on getting ready for the stage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">What makes the biggest difference in your training?</span></div>
</span>Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-72663718593059832312013-11-05T13:46:00.000-08:002013-11-05T13:54:26.060-08:00The One With The Triumphant Return<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know I have been remiss in my blogging duties over the last several months and I hope to remedy that soon. While this does not excuse my absence I can offer you an explanation for my disappearance. In May I was approached about an aerial competition being held in Texas and encouraged to apply. Since I am the type of person who is driven by tangible goals I decided to enter the amateur silks division and general lyra division (since there is no amateur division for lyra). With 5 months of silks and 3 months of lyra under my belt I knew I was going to have to buckle down to create an application. I dedicated most of my energies to choreographing and refining a routines on both apparatus for submission in July. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Training is mostly unglamorous views from the apparatus</td></tr>
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The process was a very private affair aside from the people who I trained with. I remember reading once that the best way to not accomplish something is to tell people about it. Telling people about what you are going to do triggers the same reward centers in your brain as doing. If I started talking to people about my new goals that might feel good enough and I would never accomplish the task. An equally compelling reason to keep my aspirations to myself was the very real possibility that I might apply and not be selected as a finalist despite my best efforts. Either way I was afraid to tell anyone about what I was working on other than in passing mentions as to where I was spending my time or why I was unavailable.</div>
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To my surprise I did make it into the 8 finalists in the amateur silks division which became a whole new focus starting in July. A fresh routine had to be choreographed and I needed to be stage ready by October. Being able to stay in the air and perform a three minute routine with some degree of control was my baseline for the application piece but for the competition I needed not only control but some degree of grace and musicality. I learned a lot in only a few months about moving with intent and the difference between DOING and PERFORMING a routine. While the competition aspect of this whole experience was not compelling for me the notion of performance and the difference between a student of an art form and a performer has changed how I approach the silks or any apparatus.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos from Miss Texas Pole Star 2013 performance</td></tr>
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Without making one monstrous post about everything that has happened along the way I was thinking about breaking this into a series of blogs about the experience and what might have been nice to know along the way as a fledgling aerialist. This time though I promise not to leave you hanging as long between posts *pun intended* </div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-3240269855973376192013-05-28T09:22:00.000-07:002013-05-28T09:38:44.667-07:00The One Where We Compare Lyra Vs Silks<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year I wanted to take my current set of skills and boldly go where I never had before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Expanding my horizon for hooping meant investigating the lyra. Naturally I assumed if I liked that hoop on the ground then it should be even better in the air.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJB_hmUIg_v62FH3GcBZKE6ZEA3TMMstL1lOnokZab_uZ-DSZ-B14NNOpQDbIrFOaoGTobUzNfoboN9s9A4M6gfhvQkxmLlC2dML1CZ2rzAhmshoUwXRtPVa4N2kLNkX5sqA6ag9BKGI/s400/Scully+Hoop.jpg" width="210" yya="true" /><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I set out to find an instructor and settled on a gym for my first class. They offered lots of classes in aerial arts and I was faced with a choice between lyra or aerial silks. As it turned out I wanted to start right away and silks was the only class with room for me to enroll. I initially planned to try both disciplines but as it became woefully self-evident that I had a lot of work to do on silks I was more intimidated by the idea of trying the aerial hoop. I saw silks as a series of knots and slings that helped me stay in the air and the lyra as a cold steal hoop that would require me to do more artistic versions of pull ups the whole time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That is when I started scouring the internet for comparisons of the two art forms. Unfortunately, while many people do practice both skills I could find surprisingly little written about it for the inquisitive. Finally, I just decided to screw my courage to the sticking place and try a lyra class and write a blog for those who might be curious about either discipline</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am now about 4 months into my aerial silks study and 2 months on the lyra and let me say I am so glad I chose to try both. They are a vastly rewarding and beautiful art forms but aside from being in the air they have very little in common. If you are considering trying to decide between starting on either of these apparatuses I hope this will be a helpful post. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One thing I hear over and over about the lyra is that people feel like it is easier than silks. This is true to the extent that if you have the basic core strength to support yourself learning the pathways to tricks is much easier on lyra. Fundamentally it is just a large steal ring and as long as you can hang on all the tricks are just different orientations of the body in relation to the hoop. Silks tricks are often a long series of precise wraps that can be difficult to remember when you are beginning. Forgetting something as simple as putting the silk under an arm can leave you a tangled aerial marionette.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where I disagree with the opinion of the lyra being easier is if you have not built up your core strength yet. I am not talking about being able to do a billion reps of pull ups but if you cannot support your body weight in a hanging position then it is going to be difficult to even get into the hoop. In the beginning aerial silks will give you a slight advantaged because you can essentially tie into the silks from ground level and start working on trick pathways. In my opinion you will probably feel like you have accomplished showier tricks in the first few weeks of silks as you are working on your core strength. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I started aerial hoop after several months of silks so I spent most of my time developing pathways to tricks but I see many beginners struggle to get into a seated position. There are some things you can do to squirm your way into hoop but your progress on lyra is going to be mostly conditioning until you have the ability to maintain your body weight in the air. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since there is not much to the lyra aside from you and the hoop it is usually considered more dangerous than silks. Let me very clear here when I say “more dangerous”. Both disciplines are inherently dangerous and should be treated with respect and caution but lyra does not have any supporting fabric that can be used to create locks. Now locks can fail and you can perform a wrap improperly with silks but the support provided is far more than in a lyra where you either have some kind of grip on the hoop or you do not and pure balance is the key for a number of tricks. There is definitely instruction that goes into learning where the sweet spot of a trick is but if you screw up then there are a lot fewer opportunities to stop yourself from taking a tumble.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That brings us to probably the biggest difference between the two disciplines and that is the pain factor. Both silks and lyra will tweak, pinch and squeeze you in uncomfortable places but I never bruised myself on silks as frequently as I do on lyra. The first weeks on lyra left the backs of my knees a mess of unattractive colors ranging from yellow to deep purple. As my skills have progressed and I found that the bruising can be less but it never seems to completely go away. It is safe to assume that while you may acclimate and find better ways to approach the hoop it will not change the fact that you are resting all of weight on a 1 inch diameter steal hoop. Any place where you are supporting yourself is going to be subject to bruising and is going to be a bit uncomfortable. You will just have to keep in mind the old adage…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Please keep in mind both lyra and aerial silks require vast amounts of skill, flexibility and strength at the higher levels of performance. This comparison is meant for those interested in what these disciplines might be like for someone starting at a beginner level. Hopefully, this will encourage you to expand your own horizons. If you have any additional questions about either apparatus I would be happy to answer them or feel free to leave your own opinion on why you chose lyra, silks or both.</span></div>
Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-68411212361719930282013-05-09T16:07:00.000-07:002013-05-10T13:08:29.261-07:00The One Where I Got To Hoop With Baxter<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The view at Hoop Path EarthQuaker Tour 2013 in Dallas</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last weekend I spent my second session studying with a Hoop Path instructor. My first class was with Ann Humphreys and this time I spent 3 days working with her teacher, Jonathan Baxter. For those not already familiar with Baxter he is the originator of the <a href="http://www.hooppath.com/cms/">Hoop Path</a> method of teaching and hooping. Hoop Path focuses less of teaching specific tricks and more on developing fundamentals and a style that can be translated to how you hoop and execute tricks. Hoop Path also emphasizes a sense of wellbeing and self we can cultivate through movement and uses a hoop to facilitate this exploration.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As part of Baxter’s lessons we spent time each day moving blindfolded without the hoop. Since all of the other students are blindfolded during these sessions it removes any stigma of being observed in our movements as well are removes judgment we may pass on ourselves. The first time I was introduced to this exercise I felt ridiculous and for the most part refused to allow myself to move more than the bare minimum. Being my second set of classes that used this exersice I was much more open to the idea and used the time to stretch and warm up. I now firmly believe that allowing yourself to move freely under the blindfold is very beneficial. Often during hooping I may look at my hoop or a point of reference but very rarely do I have the luxury of really observing the space outside my hoop while in motion. I found that during the warm up I could recalibrate my movements to be more grounded and less based on visual cues.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What I really love about a master hooping workshops is the approach the instructors seem to have towards movement. The difference I see between the leaders in the hooping community and average hooping instruction is an emphasis on movement. I am not saying there is no room for basic trick and hooping instruction because it is absolutely essential as well. We all spend time working on learning how to move a hoop from the waist to our shoulders or do a basic lift. Where a hoop workshop differs from basic instruction is learning the economy of movement and how to help your hoop become more of an extension of your own movement rather than trying to drag the hoop through space. Baxter uses mythology, drills and open practice to help impart and then solidify some of the techniques he uses when hooping. Learning anything from small changes in my stance to where in the rotation I was making connection with my hoop made worlds or quickly identifiable differences in my hooping. <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">We spent a fair amount of time on the second day working on angles and instead of muscling my way through the angles I have found I can now casually incorporate them into my dance.</span> For me the movement portion of the workshops are crucial. Since I already know many tricks learning to smooth my movements and understand the dynamics of where my hoop is being propelled from helps to add both reliability and style to my flow. </span></div>
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<o:p><em><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Baxter is a master of the smooth flow</span></em></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the portions I was most excited for during the weekend was folding. Folding is quickly becoming one of the more popular terms being passed around the hooping community and I went into the class with only a vague understanding of the concept. Most commonly I see folding described as moving the hoop through a 3 dimensional space rather than maintaining on the vertical or horizontal plane. In the most basic sense of the term I suppose this is true but Baxter has taken the action of singular fold and expanded it to an entire technique and style. As Baxter teaches it folding it is no longer just a transitional trick between vertical and horizontal planes but rather a gripless connection of hoop and dancer. The hoop becomes an extension of the dancer and moves off a series of connections and hinges with the body to endlessly fold in new and unexpected ways. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learning to continuously fold in the Hoop Path style is very much like learning to hoop again and if you are feeling rutted in your hooping this can definitely help change tracks. </span></div>
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<em><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Baxter demonstrates gripless continuous folding</em></span></em></div>
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</em><br />I always leave these workshops with lots of newly polished techniques under my belt and ready to tackle the unknown. I am grateful for the hoopers in the community who make it a point to share their discoveries and push the limits of our beloved toy. Finding some much versatility in such a simple object really speaks to the potential diversity in all of our endeavors simple or complex if we take the time to push the limits. <br /><br />Are any of you planning to attend a hooping workshop soon? Do you have a favorite instructor?</span>
Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-36640478923782133062013-04-25T10:12:00.000-07:002013-04-25T15:59:16.226-07:00The One About The Dreaded Plank<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzMly1kp_WNJ9YA6hEBnY1LUI3b-8D5JS3i6KPAeUhzjBgFM-NfpS-KdGVkzOipNhdZqa-WoQIFwGfjuWZXyqXBaajKzFiJIR2AdDZw90H_OyYxQDJQ8RCvFK3JYH7PXhmkib6Aqz87Y/s1600/rupunzsloth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" lwa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJzMly1kp_WNJ9YA6hEBnY1LUI3b-8D5JS3i6KPAeUhzjBgFM-NfpS-KdGVkzOipNhdZqa-WoQIFwGfjuWZXyqXBaajKzFiJIR2AdDZw90H_OyYxQDJQ8RCvFK3JYH7PXhmkib6Aqz87Y/s320/rupunzsloth.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 9.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Pretty sure Phillip Light's illustration is a accurate depiction my inner silks spirit guide</em> </span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I loath plank and yet this is one of my favorite exercises when I do not have a lot of time. It will help you quickly develop some arm and core strength so you can climb and hang from the different apparatuses like the beautiful aerial sloth princess you were meant to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I highly recommend doing planks with a mirror or someplace you can see your reflection. Personally I use my arcadia door because I don't have large mirrors in the living room. Seeing your position will ensure that you are holding your body flat and not giving into the temptation to slouch or pike. I have been doing these for a while now and I still have to remain vigilant about form.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Planks are really tough so do not get discouraged. When I first started I had to really force myself to complete the plank sets and simply refuse to give up even when my arms felt like noodles. Distraction is a great ally so try to think of a mantra that you can concentrate on while doing these. I would like to pretend that my mantras are all motivational and inspired but sometimes they were nothing but a string of swear words. As long as you make it through the exercise let your heart be your guide even if your heart is a salty sailor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All the planks and variations are intended to be completed as a set and then reversed and done on the other side. If you reach a point where you can hold comfortably for 10 counts try increasing your duration to 20. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Basic Plank</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Position your hands about shoulder width apart directly under your chest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spread your legs slightly and come up on the balls of your feet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make your body as flat as possible and you should be making a triangle is everything is correct. You will be tempted to raise your hip or let your back slouch but if you do then the benefit recieved from the exercise will be greatly reduced. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold for 10 counts. If you cannot hold the correct position for the full 10 counts hold it as long as you can and then move on the next plank variation. It is better to hold the correct position for fewer seconds than a sloppy plank for the full time. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Plank with arm extended to side</span></strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the basic plank reposition your anchor hand to be more squarely under your chest. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lift your other hand up and out to your side.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Make sure your hips are still facing down</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your extend arm should be a flat extension from your shoulders.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold for 10 counts</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid1104KZpw6rCuGSFX9PJ1dHm0PEBYg5xeIR_g7pE6E972Qys3mnj8AIOgumPcLWPyWJb77U0k_P43TS18ag2C-cKi61bYmybjDe3boHgTH3uWrLbfYB_IK9Oo6iGmJsyth0wU1zPUMSE/s1600/plank+arm+overhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid1104KZpw6rCuGSFX9PJ1dHm0PEBYg5xeIR_g7pE6E972Qys3mnj8AIOgumPcLWPyWJb77U0k_P43TS18ag2C-cKi61bYmybjDe3boHgTH3uWrLbfYB_IK9Oo6iGmJsyth0wU1zPUMSE/s320/plank+arm+overhead.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Plank with arm extended overhead</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the side extension bring your elevated arm over your head</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your arm should create an extension of your plank slope</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold for 10 counts</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6HN4gqKdKSXPOTIntZPeRWGs1VFNglFaEW1QlhOfZ5jisRQoWuVYPK0OkE8stdZLSRpxtAhHtN5e-XU5RyDVRkwtv2Unj4XI81Zw5to-EhemGFpHvroXejnP8whwo-ARtgcva_SbsXwc/s1600/side+plank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6HN4gqKdKSXPOTIntZPeRWGs1VFNglFaEW1QlhOfZ5jisRQoWuVYPK0OkE8stdZLSRpxtAhHtN5e-XU5RyDVRkwtv2Unj4XI81Zw5to-EhemGFpHvroXejnP8whwo-ARtgcva_SbsXwc/s320/side+plank.jpg" width="299" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Side Plank</strong> </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the position with your arm over your head turn to your side</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your arms should form a straight line with your body as an intersecting slope</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Feel free to widen your feet to add stability. The closer your feet are together the harder this position is to maintain </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In this position it is easy to let you mid portion sag to keep an eye on you form</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hold for 10 counts</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDP_81U7uAu6HVkZG0lHckRbU9F_N2SXUMSZOjm3KFEZ13Py7CWPwxsJr9lOugttEzTzx-bkUic0mH63n8q6YDiCfi3MJHSLPIOfyphheh6nnmcWgCenkXysPVQZ1WPEAdjn1uvuX0RgM/s1600/plank+push+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDP_81U7uAu6HVkZG0lHckRbU9F_N2SXUMSZOjm3KFEZ13Py7CWPwxsJr9lOugttEzTzx-bkUic0mH63n8q6YDiCfi3MJHSLPIOfyphheh6nnmcWgCenkXysPVQZ1WPEAdjn1uvuX0RgM/s320/plank+push+up.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Plank Push Ups</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bonus round</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the basic plank position come down to your elbows one at a time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Extend your arms one at a time back into basic plank</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember to maintain your flat back when transitioning from elbows to straight arms</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Repeat until you are fussing and cussing and then one more time</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> And of course my favorite...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkvy7fFpQnrjASYIl12PFUffjwjyL292YPjE7DhPy_PcCwj1y87OMvUwD26FyLc4TI2WNAYHxvpedi1RZZfEcm0XwLqJitnO9GErl0DwJwXk-WkVov2He8t-R8OBAWbDh_gTdM3owqCE/s1600/plank+easy+mode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkvy7fFpQnrjASYIl12PFUffjwjyL292YPjE7DhPy_PcCwj1y87OMvUwD26FyLc4TI2WNAYHxvpedi1RZZfEcm0XwLqJitnO9GErl0DwJwXk-WkVov2He8t-R8OBAWbDh_gTdM3owqCE/s320/plank+easy+mode.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <strong>Plank on easy mode</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">No joke, give yourself a break after you complete a series of planks. Come back to child's pose and take a few deep breaths and let your muscles relax before moving on. </span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-52717411092986544012013-04-12T09:22:00.003-07:002013-04-12T09:36:30.433-07:00The One About Being Greater Than One<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is safe to say I have always been a bit of a lone wolf. While I enjoy the company of my peers when it comes time to work and practice I like to do it on my own. I prefer to be responsible for my own successes or short comings and I am always worried about failing others. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, some of my recent training has thrown my attitude towards working alone into flux. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMLk8QLbWg-Wp1XL1HAmtxOkztbOljXkz4c7Yjvued3Fi9pP3OJpFPI5gv6ypfS_gtoX8f0MdIG83doC6zTdCSyvzhd2ye9dxrzvPUj8jLCgd9tldXLkqhWHIEomoHt6wgVH-v2pVglQ/s1600/484374_10102333366042641_1005756842_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" bua="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguMLk8QLbWg-Wp1XL1HAmtxOkztbOljXkz4c7Yjvued3Fi9pP3OJpFPI5gv6ypfS_gtoX8f0MdIG83doC6zTdCSyvzhd2ye9dxrzvPUj8jLCgd9tldXLkqhWHIEomoHt6wgVH-v2pVglQ/s1600/484374_10102333366042641_1005756842_n.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is about learning to trust yourself and your partner</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It started in an attempt to increase my flexibility. I knew improving would mean the lyra and silk routines I was learning more attractive and dramatic. I enrolled in a contortion class in the hopes of, for starters, improving my splits and back bend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I expected contortion would be similar to a yoga where we stretch in lots of different positions and over time gradually improve our flexibility. What I did not realize is that training with the primary intent of increased flexibility means pushing your body and having others help you into positions you could not reach on your own. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During my first class when I was partnered with a fellow student and then told they would stand on my thighs while I was in butterfly pose and gently push me toward the ground I was terrified. My mind immediately started going through the big list of things that could go wrong. What if I could not support my partner? What if they could not balance on me? What if they pushed too hard? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I already felt like my butterfly was already at the maximum I could achieve and I was touching my head to my feet without assistance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What did I stand to gain from adding another person to my practice? When the exercise started my partner carefully stepped up and began pushing my back. By checking in with me we reached a point that I felt like was the maximum of the stretch. I proceeded to hold the position for the prescribed 30 seconds and wondering why we were adding the complication of a partner when I was obviously not going to be going any further. Then in the last 10 seconds my body stopped fighting back against the additional steady pressure from my partner and my knees came to the floor and I was able to relax my back into an even flatter position. I was surprised by the additional give my body had when it finally gave in to the added help from my partner. It was something I may never have achieved on my own. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfQwg0a5XKGKp8cV2Ch85r0x6SCBMxI85lL32pqUx65xLgS0wPHi8nIEXLrWuAU0OZ5bbzvecpBQgnAPv5wyni6RP1vajtoYN30_GqjMehirKl_4UKmSF0_YtJ8KHrHshby1jcMIs-ZY/s1600/Partner+Silks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" bua="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWfQwg0a5XKGKp8cV2Ch85r0x6SCBMxI85lL32pqUx65xLgS0wPHi8nIEXLrWuAU0OZ5bbzvecpBQgnAPv5wyni6RP1vajtoYN30_GqjMehirKl_4UKmSF0_YtJ8KHrHshby1jcMIs-ZY/s320/Partner+Silks.jpg" width="203" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Partnering can add a new dynamic to your practice</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since starting the contortions class I have had several other opportunities to work with partners and I am becoming increasingly comfortable with relying on to achieve what we could not individually. I plan on writting about some of my favorite partner exercises as I learn so stay tuned if you want to have some fun with your other half. In the mean time tell me how you feel about working with a partner? Have you also found working with others enriching to your process?</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fH3rnEyz1pst4MtICoqK9B8AHJoefapuz3jVYF3Al_DTKJiGeN8aFixgjhfIf5lH0f_gH4IRZJREZumljbYX_NCD32z1rNyqYA_ssXNVwdETyILsyajDyTEgFFYy0a-aDQv0blvZPqI/s1600/Partner+Acro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" bua="true" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fH3rnEyz1pst4MtICoqK9B8AHJoefapuz3jVYF3Al_DTKJiGeN8aFixgjhfIf5lH0f_gH4IRZJREZumljbYX_NCD32z1rNyqYA_ssXNVwdETyILsyajDyTEgFFYy0a-aDQv0blvZPqI/s320/Partner+Acro.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Amanda Rebholz captured Karla, of </span><a href="http://puppiesbreath.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Puppies Breath Blog</span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">, and me playing around with some partner acrobatics during our circus photoshoot.</span></em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></td></tr>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-58335285793969700612013-04-04T12:27:00.000-07:002013-04-20T20:32:28.311-07:00The One On The Flying Trapeze<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week I found myself standing on the Santa Monica Pier in LA staring up at people flying through the air 30 feet above the boardwalk. Upon spying the trapeze one of my friends jokingly suggested that is what I should be doing on my vacation. After a few slack jawed moments of sheer wonder and excitement I got my wits about me enough to locate the office and sign up for my first class in flying trapeze.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://newyork.trapezeschool.com/">Trapeze School New York</a> has several facilities across the country, Santa Monica Pier being their newest, which specialize in flying trapeze. Their trapeze class is taught as a 2 hour session in groups of 10 students or less. The classes are priced between $50-60 a lesson which is a bit expensive but in a discipline where safety and equipment is a priority you may need to be prepared to pay a little more to ensure the quality of your instructor and the maintenance of the equipment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I arrived the next morning bright eyed and bushy tailed for my first class. I had been advised the day before on best choices for clothing which was the usual leggings and tank top. Lucky for me I was traveling with silks attire in anticipation of attending a work shop at a local circus school later in the week. I was surprised that they did not recommend leg warmers which are usually quite useful for apparatus where there are hoops or bars. In retrospect compared to lyra or static trapeze my shins and calves did not come into much contact with the bar. Leg warmers would have done little to protect the back of my knees and that is where I took a majority of the strain from the class.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After I quickly signed a waiver they took me and all the other first time flyers to receive a quick briefing on what to expect on the platform and what we would be trying to accomplish as we hurtled through the air. We were taught how to stand on the platform, prepare and when the order was given to jump. The instructor also covered the first trick we would be attempting to learn. We would be jumping from the platform and attempting to negotiate a basic knee hang and if we were lucky a catch at the end of class.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were also fitted with nylon waist belt cinched down as tight as humanly possible. These belts represented our link to safety. If you are going up the ladder to the platform you are clipped to a safety pulley, once on the platform you transfer to another safety clip, and when it comes time to jump yet another series of clips are attached to your belt so they can control your descent should you lose your grip on the trapeze. At this point they also informed us that in order to reach the trapeze bar we would need to lean out over the platform and trust all of our weight to the assistant on the platform who would be holding us by the back of our belts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After we had practiced all of the actions as much as possible from the ground it was now time to get in the air. My time with silks has definitely brought me more comfort with being in the air but had not completely prepared me for my first climb and jump from the platform. The trapeze rig is tall…very tall. As I made my first assent I looked out over the beach and tried not to think about how high I was going. As I transferred my safety clip to what had once appeared to be a generously sized platform and now seemed barely adequate for my and the instructor I could barely keep all the instructions in my head. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My first attempt was far from steller. When it came time for me to trust my instructor and lean out over the edge it was a struggle. I tucked my hips and did everything in my power to remain under my own control rather than relaxing into the correct position. Once the command to jump came I did not hesitate but then had a moment of complete terror where I was swinging out toward nothingness. I had this moment or realization that I had just jumped off a platform 30 feet in the air and had no way of getting back and nothing to save me except this puny little bar overhead and I was not even sure how I was going to get down. As I started to swing back I hear my instructor shouting “KNEES UP” which was the command to go into the knee hang.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The major difference between flying trapeze and all of the other disciplines I have been learning thus far is flying trapeze is all about timing. If you execute your actions during the right moment of each swing they are relatively effortless. I will not say there is no effort but in comparison to trying to lift your knees above your head on a static apparatus it is much easier provided you do it in the right moment. In the case of my first attempt I completely missed the right moment and was left struggling against gravity. Once I actually had my knees over the bar I was able to lean on my lyra experience and tried to bring my heels to my thighs and relax into a back arch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last part of my first swing was the dismount. My only experience with landing on something from the air has been the trampolines we use at the gym for conditioning. I was very hesitant about landing on the net because I was expecting it to be much firmer. It makes sense though that it is softer because a trampoline is trying to spring you back in the air vs the netting being there to slow and then stop you descent. You are also connected to guide wires that should you begin to fall improperly an instructor will manually slow your fall. With all of these things working for you I was pleasantly surprised that the dismount was not as bone jarring as expected.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After each attempt you will receive some coaching on what to work on during your next turn on the platform. Over the course of about 3-4 attempts depending on the number of students you will hopefully start to understand the trick and solidify your timing. If you are able to successfully complete your trick solo you will be allowed to attempt a catch. A catch means that you will have a partner on a trapeze across from you and you will attempt to make a transfer from hanging on your trapeze to your partner. Remember the trick is all about timing and in this case it is the timing for two.This time instead of being prompted from the ground you partner is giving you instructions and the success of your catch is based on executing those instructions without hesitation or error. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After 4 attempts on the platform with the solo trick some of the initial butterflies in my stomach had subsided and I was completing the knee hang reliably but I did not expect to make my first catch. On the platform I watched as my partner started his swing and waited for the command to ready and then jump. Once I left the platform I tried to forget about the impending catch because if I did everything properly it should come naturally. I completed my knee hang and when I came up from the third swing and looked out there was my partner ready to grab my hands. I immediately released the hanging grip I had on my own bar and found myself being suspended from another person high above the ground. Flying through the air I thought to myself "This was the stuff dreams are made of." I was practically giddy when moments later I landed on the net below.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After finishing the class I would highly recommend the experience to anyone who ever thought they might be interested in circus arts or had any passing fancy with the flying trapeze. The way they have structured the class and from what I saw of the other students I believe you can have a successful first lesson even if you have no prior experience with the aerial arts. If you are aerial experienced the flying is a fun departure from the static apparatuses most of us use. The Trapeze School New York</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was a pleasurable experience I hope to repeat on future visits to California or any other states where they have facilities. </span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-13159283276003775192013-03-28T20:04:00.001-07:002013-03-28T20:51:29.307-07:00The One About Being A Twisty Bobcat Pretzel <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRGcK5Jxx8djPaMJsq2fnljH7_sNK4DJXY3PG8WkVB3QPeyonPvFsXelo1cHmfw3Lr_lzaB_aPZo144rW5JMG6wIs2bBZiM4KyVLKZbEOvnCdb-5X8Xi3zaddHkhnkAWfU6IQRTVtEMOk/s320/devilface.jpg" ssa="true" width="299" /></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last month I learned that the creators of <a href="http://www.thedevilscarnival.com/" target="_blank">The Devil’s Carnival</a> would be taking the film on another tour along with their first film <a href="http://www.repo-opera.com/" target="_blank">Repo! The Genetic Opera</a>. As a longtime fan and perpetual advocate for both movies that meant a break from blogging while I tried to get the word on street any way possible.</span></span> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quite literally taking it to the streets in some cases</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Devil's Carnival has been a huge contributor to my interest in circus so while this was a detour to my current pursuits it was an enjoyable one. With all the twists l</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">ife throws at us remaining flexible in both body and mind can save us from snapping or breaking. The path to the solution may not always be the most direct but if we allow ourselves the opportunity to follow the twists and turns we can achieve our goals.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorites stretches right now is fun to navigate and leaves you feeling amazing</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5KpeJK1TEBEX6Jinr0uYbG9AeuVcUhB1bE022wq0fpMgvBtrPYcfQxMuJdUQI2Cvvk1qJtyD8cdrnWqZeu22BvUEziZO5bJw3mKdiSYwUVFL7efYYTrIePqlCQ8GsoNiiot1UckJkQI/s1600/twistya2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ5KpeJK1TEBEX6Jinr0uYbG9AeuVcUhB1bE022wq0fpMgvBtrPYcfQxMuJdUQI2Cvvk1qJtyD8cdrnWqZeu22BvUEziZO5bJw3mKdiSYwUVFL7efYYTrIePqlCQ8GsoNiiot1UckJkQI/s320/twistya2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. From a deep lunge set your knee on the floor. Tuck your hips under your spine and face squarely forward. Your posture should be impecible at this point. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV28ec1XcqDk007ZxE3fDY3GpdmnFyrDqcvTxT4ptTwVTYVb8vVhHG4pIdTXlSA6AAPGVzvBa4VPtVrHjJqY-E41cASGsGxCj4BtUqev1sOQ6tHoKyXJ5NYFQGNqk5Nen-_OFKJEcaeBc/s1600/twistya3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV28ec1XcqDk007ZxE3fDY3GpdmnFyrDqcvTxT4ptTwVTYVb8vVhHG4pIdTXlSA6AAPGVzvBa4VPtVrHjJqY-E41cASGsGxCj4BtUqev1sOQ6tHoKyXJ5NYFQGNqk5Nen-_OFKJEcaeBc/s320/twistya3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Bring both hand to the inside of your elevated knee and bend forward at the waist. Keeping your back as flat as possible bring your hands and elbows to the floor</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxa5PBAoUWJoPBaEEHqScih6PabZXAQC_TglqLoLfdORaandSM69EbN9cUPjpXps3yaHSu7WecOmSMXJRjjq8UWuMa5esApQrsiuoGqf-2sEu6IPIH0n-dc_1URG-MkaN_swTi2nNTJc8/s1600/twistya4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxa5PBAoUWJoPBaEEHqScih6PabZXAQC_TglqLoLfdORaandSM69EbN9cUPjpXps3yaHSu7WecOmSMXJRjjq8UWuMa5esApQrsiuoGqf-2sEu6IPIH0n-dc_1URG-MkaN_swTi2nNTJc8/s320/twistya4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Bring your arm closest to your leg under your knee and fingers pointing forward. Your second arm will turn to point at your toes and support your torso.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Now for the final twist. Turn your hips and torso to face your elevated leg. Bring your hips as close to the floor as is comfortable</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Take a deep breath and enjoy your twisty bobcat pretzel stretch</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Taking some time to explore your physical flexibility can leave your mind free to wander and come to solutions for other barriers we may be experiencing in our lives.</span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-80543734915111846422013-03-04T09:08:00.000-08:002013-04-20T20:32:56.565-07:00The One About Learning To Hoop<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsiXShmJgQ65nZKJ7FBvMVrrxKh6PEqxYP5FufkSd2CalCLpTNa0gXsMW1A_nxUiRMw-jALTc0A7faQIqYx-mBYIVfn2utfuQNhpDDlxcxA0ejGg4Fr1HWASzleZvuCRceAF-yw2BROE/s1600/self+guided.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><img border="0" height="320" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsiXShmJgQ65nZKJ7FBvMVrrxKh6PEqxYP5FufkSd2CalCLpTNa0gXsMW1A_nxUiRMw-jALTc0A7faQIqYx-mBYIVfn2utfuQNhpDDlxcxA0ejGg4Fr1HWASzleZvuCRceAF-yw2BROE/s320/self+guided.jpg" width="226" /></em></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Hooping to discover</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since picking up the hoop a year ago I have been on a process of self-guided study. I have learned a lot about personal discipline and responsibility in this process. In life there are no formal class rooms so drifting from path to path is easy. You will meet many teachers but you are responsible to accept teaching from them. Just like the Kung-fu students of cinematic legend you must seek the masters of your discipline and understand their lessons. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Tzu8dU6KL7r8saxqy2_vQZtmFgZD3e-NKPsFJ6oJDooAkIw7dBqwm3hlLXUD4kYj4cJbMBJ6flTXn87r-D254EXPj-EztUi3FHMBZW4RvICOf8ZgClG_Y12HWiOaUV2KjcbuaUS7k-Y/s1600/learning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Tzu8dU6KL7r8saxqy2_vQZtmFgZD3e-NKPsFJ6oJDooAkIw7dBqwm3hlLXUD4kYj4cJbMBJ6flTXn87r-D254EXPj-EztUi3FHMBZW4RvICOf8ZgClG_Y12HWiOaUV2KjcbuaUS7k-Y/s320/learning.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Solitary practice can yield many results if you are diligent</em></span> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fortunately with modern technology you will not have to make an arduous trek up fog covered mountains to find your master…unless of course, you want to. Most hooping can begin through solitary learning with a quick search on the internet or youtube for tutorials. Watch lots of tutorials on waist hooping, core hooping, basic lifts. Try watching multiple tutorials for the same trick since it may take a couple different instructors to find the one who explains in a way that is just right for you. I am a big advocate for free youtube instruction because it is readily accessible and the content that exists for basic moves is fairly complete and will get you ready to engage in more complex discovery when meeting with other hoopers. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is also a number or really great paid online tutorial series that offer more detailed content than the free tutorials. Paid tutorials often cover things that are talked about less directly in free tutorials like flowing and considering the performance aspect of your dance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p>Here are some of my favorite youtube instructors</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/FireSandra" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SaFire</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/babzrobinson" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Babz Robinson</span></a></div>
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<o:p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/katiebug0376" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Katie Emmitt</span></a></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsFHBlwbtWuAeg6RGBnraS6N76nPOTOnn7bXYputY3Cxx917ICPHEUcq8Yjb6MMVKFYFlktw8xAgtCWSMYoEjHRehxis-rr05FjkkHhfHvMVeghGRMSjLcDs30BcQXtLO3brPTKA95RI/s1600/Informal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><em><img border="0" height="213" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsFHBlwbtWuAeg6RGBnraS6N76nPOTOnn7bXYputY3Cxx917ICPHEUcq8Yjb6MMVKFYFlktw8xAgtCWSMYoEjHRehxis-rr05FjkkHhfHvMVeghGRMSjLcDs30BcQXtLO3brPTKA95RI/s320/Informal.jpg" width="320" /></em></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Playtime with </em></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/LittleMissHavok?fref=ts" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Hannah Havok</em></span></a><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em> and </em></span><a href="http://www.miamoore.net/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Mia Moore</em></span></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you begin to advance you may want to actively participate with other hoopers in informal settings. Group learning often help solidfy your skills when you share them with others. There is a lot to be gained from other peers who may be sharing some of the same frustrations as you. It is encouraging and helps you stay on your path when you meet other on the same journey as they may have wisdom to share about what is beyond the next turn in the road. Personally, I started a small private group with friends where we talk almost daily about our favorite tutorials, current frustrations and break throughs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some great communities you can explore as you start down your path<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.hoopcity.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hoop City</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.hooping.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hooping</span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagF07WkKxWYgOtdG7o09XJoorqocFyqrZpFGrQ-yX59ewM0UPcWoycsoOGpu-GMky79m-rsY4HxmKy6USu4irwUVMV84bdyx192uf1hEiZnfFM8CQtuNrNao3bzjyEo5LRAYmpWKN0L8/s1600/Blindfold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" jsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhagF07WkKxWYgOtdG7o09XJoorqocFyqrZpFGrQ-yX59ewM0UPcWoycsoOGpu-GMky79m-rsY4HxmKy6USu4irwUVMV84bdyx192uf1hEiZnfFM8CQtuNrNao3bzjyEo5LRAYmpWKN0L8/s320/Blindfold.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Learning about blindfold hooping at Ann Humphreys workshop</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you travel you may reach what appears to be plateau or an insurmountable crevasse. Some of these may be momentary before you see the next logical route but sometimes you may not yet have the tools to continue on. In cases like these is may be necessary to try something completely new. This month was my one year hoop-iversary and I was happy to be marking it at my first instructor led hoop workshop with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/hushpuppymix2" target="_blank">Ann Humphreys</a>. I had reached a point with my hoop where I was working on improving my tricks each session but not making measurable progress. This was the first time I had focused instruction on technique and I will say that it fundamentally changed my approach to the hoop. Having a master level instructor helped me refine my actions and made many things I had previously failed at not only achievable but also repeatable. I left the workshop with some new tools that will hopefully allow me to continue growing as a hooper in ways I had not previously known about or even had the language to express. <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you feel like you are ready to take the next step I suggest searching for a hooping retreat or workshop being led in your city. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some popular hooping organizations that frequently schedule instructor led workshops</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.hooppath.com/cms/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hoop Path</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sacredcircularities.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sacred Circularities</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel like I have only just begun to brush the surface of how to enter the vibrant world that is the hooping community but I hope this will help some of you as you take your first spin.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ann Humphreys' workshop</span></em></td></tr>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-69654325906392909212013-02-26T09:22:00.004-08:002013-04-20T20:33:16.917-07:00The One About Being Terrible At Something<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOTSwmZzF4EUwKafB_Duoo9WPcax96NawdmEk0RjuqJo7PCZ5ZKvS48MxCUe7hx6WyKbr84jz8UHFy_aqPXBbaO_3nCneZMrRNqigwbhVbFU1tAKQZat6zMm1rKBKtSen3J23KdPSbPI/s1600/b982fb554588c0c06be19b778688b75d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><img border="0" gsa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOTSwmZzF4EUwKafB_Duoo9WPcax96NawdmEk0RjuqJo7PCZ5ZKvS48MxCUe7hx6WyKbr84jz8UHFy_aqPXBbaO_3nCneZMrRNqigwbhVbFU1tAKQZat6zMm1rKBKtSen3J23KdPSbPI/s1600/b982fb554588c0c06be19b778688b75d.jpg" /></em></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Jake the Dog speaks the truth</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most, if not everything we do we once sucked at. Even the most basic skills like tying your shoes were once monumental tasks only performed by the most skilled people…aka your mom. Hopefully, through persistence and practice you at some point mastered tying your shoes and went on to tackle new and even more difficult tasks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While it is easy to become discourage because we are comparing our fumbling attempts to polished routines performed under the big top it is important to remember the circus arts are no different from shoe laces. Each performance starts with simple skills building on one another and small victories.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I started hooping I was constantly inundated with videos of the very best in the discipline spinning hoops at high speeds and constantly pushing the bounds of their tools. At 5 weeks of daily practice I was barely able to maintain the hoop at my waist. So often we feel like we need to immeditaly be masters at our craft when we should allow ourselves to be students first.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqyM-tljvUXTAX3cm9kqimGoWbhCwS-8KULTMbQbN3Dgr50wfNTK3-aR4HKdljngicGuanjmwtPRTbFPOFiJkgtJ4kQhTTp2xiTDh_vKKqamaDqcXbfyncgHcSaz1vTHaRiDj7XhrMY4/s1600/2013-01-17_20-30-23_362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" gsa="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqyM-tljvUXTAX3cm9kqimGoWbhCwS-8KULTMbQbN3Dgr50wfNTK3-aR4HKdljngicGuanjmwtPRTbFPOFiJkgtJ4kQhTTp2xiTDh_vKKqamaDqcXbfyncgHcSaz1vTHaRiDj7XhrMY4/s320/2013-01-17_20-30-23_362.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A skill means you had to learn how to do it</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are the top 5 things I try to remember when working towards my goal</span><br />
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Practice - You do not have to put restrictions on your practice just spend time each day making your passion a part of your life. That can be as simple as researching new moves, taping your hoop or just working for 5 minutes on stretches. Make your hobby a habit</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Give yourself permission to fail – If you are not failing you are not pushing your limits. Try for that hoop trick you saw on youtube or try that silk trick you could not quite complete last week. If you are only doing things you know you can do it will look great but you will not continue to grow in your discipline.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don’t measure yourself against others – Mentors and goals are a great part of any discipline but do not let comparison discourage you. The only person you should compare yourself against is the performer you were yesterday and the performer you are today. </span></li>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Circus hurts – This sounds kind of terrible but it is true. You are going to bruise, burn and bend yourself to discomfort but stick with it. Those pains will go away to be replaced by new ones but that means you are learning. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Practice within reason but do not be afraid to push your limits<o:p></o:p></span></li>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love the process –Even if you are trying to learn a new and impressive trick do not let it own you. <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Celebrate successes…even the tiny ones. Even if you only held the handstand for a second or you had to help the hoop around with your hand it counts. You are learning and that means not doing it perfect every time. You did it once now you can do it better in the future.</span> Enjoy your practice. Do not lose sight of why you are doing this. Have fun!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Safire created a great video on this topic. It has been an inspiration to me on my journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Love the Process!</span></div>
Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-79214167249862889872013-02-22T08:03:00.002-08:002014-02-04T08:50:03.351-08:00The One With A Different Perspective<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think I have said it before but I really dislike exercise that feels like I am doing it for the sole purpose of fitness. Running on a treadmill or lifting weights does not engage my mind and I struggle to commit to the same routine every day. When I decided I wanted to take up silks and lyra because it seemed like the next logical progression from hula hooping I realized I was probably going to need to start some kind of fitness routine. After my first class I knew that I was completely in love with the feeling of being in the air but also that I was going to have a lot of work to do if I ever wanted to advance. I was concerned that I would not be able to force myself to do the conditioning required because of my aforementioned aversion to exercise. Luckily for me there are some fun option I have learned that are engaging and can help target the areas that need to improve for different acrobatic skills.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_eDYQZikk9w5tKGZ5YC0sVRP_MnulrP8s6waZ2oTaPwVY9YS4mT2cJ_OQ2GBr0n9T7qYIDFRff3OlNlOGU7kYDLdALLQlzNEcz5ynn_W-vvtTt2tn_89joB3YHaNgszUsdcNtBldCkU/s1600/259797_10101953573025891_1405379528_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_eDYQZikk9w5tKGZ5YC0sVRP_MnulrP8s6waZ2oTaPwVY9YS4mT2cJ_OQ2GBr0n9T7qYIDFRff3OlNlOGU7kYDLdALLQlzNEcz5ynn_W-vvtTt2tn_89joB3YHaNgszUsdcNtBldCkU/s320/259797_10101953573025891_1405379528_n.jpg" height="320" mea="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>No lie, I am a master couch potato</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In order to climb, invert or do just about anything on the silk you are going to need upper body strength. You are constantly supporting yourself with your hands and arms as you lock your feet to position for another trick. Planks are a great way to build strength but ultimately kind of painful and frustrating. I totally feel like a boss when I complete a series of planks in class but unless the torture is instructor led, chances are I am not going to inflict it upon myself in my free time. This is why I have come to love the handstand. Handstands not only develop your arm and core strength but also engage your mind as you concentrate on keeping your feet in the air rather than thinking about how much your arms are hurting.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMAf_s4hhQMz4YVDpuZMiI19HtI8cxfyjScRHc1X-zEbR5yb1s5DllYWZGj65MtnpTIeEGSZbOcZQ86viHBbaSU_D0BkKbj7khRWo7WrZ0q3USFCVAakWZ5oX4Wp80ox-9VS4klgPh0I/s1600/155071_10102133372052201_1597343359_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMAf_s4hhQMz4YVDpuZMiI19HtI8cxfyjScRHc1X-zEbR5yb1s5DllYWZGj65MtnpTIeEGSZbOcZQ86viHBbaSU_D0BkKbj7khRWo7WrZ0q3USFCVAakWZ5oX4Wp80ox-9VS4klgPh0I/s320/155071_10102133372052201_1597343359_n.jpg" height="180" mea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sadly, not everyone has as much love for the handstand as I do. Most people I talk to are nervous of being upside down, losing their balance or do not even know where to begin. The handstand does not need to be some impossible acrobatic feet if we break it down into simple parts, slowly increase our skill level and reward ourselves for small victories along the way. <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When learning the handstand there are several approaches depending on your comfort level. I am going to cover the 2 most common I have used.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUEQS1-wC_-fDeRbkdZBo0Ha3asVh8GpSoi5wOvi51DwPXu2wKaj3fc1RkWOSIUa9ya3NtFviQZd-3zWpWR0kZ76BVP2ogrzxzG9Vq1iva_2Ba50x-KyoKDA2n9uQh7cPiEsCgK6trPcQ/s320/wall.jpg" height="213" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Wall is your friend!</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before we start getting inverted lets get aquainted with some tools we have to help.This</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> is Wall.</span> </span>For those of us who have not spent much time looking at the world upside-down Wall is a friend as we find our balance. Wall is a great spotter who will never let you down and doesn’t care how hard you kick him in the face.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some of us are a little uncomfortable with hurling ourselves at the ground or do not have confidence in our ability to support our fully body weight on just our hands. In cases like this a progressive approach might be a good option. Personally I feel like this process takes more strength but there are also more exist points before becoming inverted should you lose confidence at any point.</span> </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLk7bjoCUrcsEWoLTalyWG0zlVNekgo8CYaLTalXp5GFHPjFtUeVcJW3fLzETndjjn_XEtLZHkPKRQ6rNKPnNODgExaK-sxubuOZGK4tMNiLfs_B_z6Oe5lZREDVwj-jrO5HgWfnexm4/s1600/Handstand+how+to+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHLk7bjoCUrcsEWoLTalyWG0zlVNekgo8CYaLTalXp5GFHPjFtUeVcJW3fLzETndjjn_XEtLZHkPKRQ6rNKPnNODgExaK-sxubuOZGK4tMNiLfs_B_z6Oe5lZREDVwj-jrO5HgWfnexm4/s320/Handstand+how+to+2.jpg" height="320" mea="true" width="238" /></span></em></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It helps if you sing about Spiderman while you do this</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Start by facing away and with your heels against the wall. From this position bend over and place your hands on the ground. You will now transition your weight into your hands and while supporting yourself start walking your feet up the wall. You will probably reach a position where your body the wall and the floor are creating a triangle. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OzLGaQBL_Q2RD4FPVXCzb5vSLv6tzAekRS-mTI_E4SfL54xu70cLLJGGKCHhoHoX7qiRa7CR8mRMm5nKpArPoRpTIwzWo11BJzpsbmHjCCTJH8lQMwjpNWOWAV4ncz5INRhA3IsDn1A/s1600/Handstand+how+to3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OzLGaQBL_Q2RD4FPVXCzb5vSLv6tzAekRS-mTI_E4SfL54xu70cLLJGGKCHhoHoX7qiRa7CR8mRMm5nKpArPoRpTIwzWo11BJzpsbmHjCCTJH8lQMwjpNWOWAV4ncz5INRhA3IsDn1A/s320/Handstand+how+to3.jpg" height="320" width="231" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Now for, in my opinion, the hardest part. Start walking your hands back towards the wall. As your hands get closer to the wall you should be able to walk your feet up. Personally I find it very difficult to get to a completely vertical position using this process and I dislike not having the wall at my back when trying to find my balance.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDW0-3UBF4iDAw9qJHnoazF-7L7kq8894J9p9VuZbfyFRUI1M7maxmAu5at6VmDVf5vMK_BM437pMQucV0tZlypujb_IWFVRiuHUALMEHBWqYXmpevdP9ccI6ayIfPzjv_BiS-U_Vu1k0/s1600/Handstand+how+to.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDW0-3UBF4iDAw9qJHnoazF-7L7kq8894J9p9VuZbfyFRUI1M7maxmAu5at6VmDVf5vMK_BM437pMQucV0tZlypujb_IWFVRiuHUALMEHBWqYXmpevdP9ccI6ayIfPzjv_BiS-U_Vu1k0/s320/Handstand+how+to.jpg" height="320" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Remember to breath</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now that you are feeling more confident you can practice kicking up directly into a hand stand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Facing the wall place your hands on the ground about 6 inches from the base. From this position you should look like an inverted V with your hands and feet on the floor</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Keeping your arms straight kick your feet up and against the wall. When you first start do not worry about making it pretty. Smash your feet into the wall, bend your knees or whatever you need to do to get up there. Once you do hold that position and appreciate your accomplishment</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Straighten your legs and point your toes. Now most importanly tighten your core, legs and butt while pushing through your hands. Handstand doen't just come from your ability to pile all the weight of your body on your arms. The more support you supply from your abs the more controlled your handstand will be</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Slowly with one foot push away from the wall. Tentitively find your balance and then push the other foot off to. If you have to let your feet drop or lean back against the wall that is okay. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">5. Once you feel comfortable try going into a handstand in one fluid motion from a standing postition and not touching the wall before finding your balance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Remember handstands require you to support from the arms and core. Both are neccessary to maintain control. Your balance will come with practice and time. Even if you are only able to hold an unsupported handstand for just a second it still counts as a win. Celebrate all your milestones and love the process.</span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-86553382783995173842013-02-18T20:45:00.000-08:002013-04-20T20:33:48.983-07:00The One About Globe Trotting<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I travel a fair amount for both business and pleasure. Last year alone I trekked across much of the US, Canada and Mexico. Keeping up with your current hobbies can be difficult when you are on the road but with a little careful planning it is not impossible. Last week I spent a week in Berlin for work which meant long days in the office without much time for clowning around. On top of the limited free time a fellow international air travel passenger decided to gift me with the plague before arriving at my final destination. Despite these hardships I was determined to make the most of my time in another country. I had come armed with my travel hoop, leggings and a camera so I was ready for all opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwvS3xMSba7P5cIoPRuf7lm3wm1Y30hflAurQvjm0kIxn0g_8VEoFBlJta837shB0kVzfLwzCndhzo2uz-jpAEmFx-DCFKCTGgzuUiEEBdE7rnJBRcJzjCfLpKqdVX1NvbIbs0BXSAQc/s1600/Fern1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYwvS3xMSba7P5cIoPRuf7lm3wm1Y30hflAurQvjm0kIxn0g_8VEoFBlJta837shB0kVzfLwzCndhzo2uz-jpAEmFx-DCFKCTGgzuUiEEBdE7rnJBRcJzjCfLpKqdVX1NvbIbs0BXSAQc/s320/Fern1.jpg" uea="true" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Poster for a silent circus film displayed at the Berlin Film Museum</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During February Berlin is chilly at all hours and has limited amount of daylight. By the middle of the week I considered a forecast of 4 C positively balmy. Since there was really no light to film after work and I was recouping from a cold I spent the first couple of evenings indoors. My room had a rooftop view of a building in the process of being renovated so on a snowy evening I decided to do some moonlit tumbling inside the hotel. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynf29elGtHltFUHKFxRcxTgwIArMon44loXajO-DNPwrsqOGxKc4C0EveAIuRX8v2VVdhryIJKvZH-Hiki5F_1cWZiX_mknmq3mPHd-yKbYQLsM6H8U99RQWoJHNTFF3X310I83Uvn08/s1600/Handstand2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhynf29elGtHltFUHKFxRcxTgwIArMon44loXajO-DNPwrsqOGxKc4C0EveAIuRX8v2VVdhryIJKvZH-Hiki5F_1cWZiX_mknmq3mPHd-yKbYQLsM6H8U99RQWoJHNTFF3X310I83Uvn08/s320/Handstand2.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Hotel room tumbling</em></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Probably my favorite part of the trip was the amazing playground equipment. There was a huge rope tower on the way to work that just needed to be climbed. I could only imagine how delightful this structure must be for the local children during the summer months. It definitely brought back fond memories of my youthful summers in Brussles Belgium where the playgrounds elicited squeals of pure joy as we clung to, scrambled over and scaled potentially dangerous equipment. With some of my new found comfort in heights I scaled the tower as well as inverted from some of the interior cross sections.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ4tJkacRKfx6Im8FbtvDAYjRBNfWDhPTpNehRjuYHdz54BRYs43b48da5Z4DG33QupTYVrrDFIQ61ULywQZ7xl9TDjtEToOOLi-yJPTGKQJRuYnRphV2NDiVHogmFpoGemE2Y4u5Szs/s1600/jungle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ4tJkacRKfx6Im8FbtvDAYjRBNfWDhPTpNehRjuYHdz54BRYs43b48da5Z4DG33QupTYVrrDFIQ61ULywQZ7xl9TDjtEToOOLi-yJPTGKQJRuYnRphV2NDiVHogmFpoGemE2Y4u5Szs/s320/jungle2.jpg" uea="true" width="213" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Enjoying the local attractions</em></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCaQl3RaDxHQrxnYzrh1w06iYPtHMYgS74_EfkeUyZMFF7sTkkUD1oheoHWo3yf7KWkJHy46mfnNIDcQEPPKMGHmy0uBvACX7_kT27gOtr4glZlci1VxOObelL3M09GJKwKlx8U-as5XI/s1600/tower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCaQl3RaDxHQrxnYzrh1w06iYPtHMYgS74_EfkeUyZMFF7sTkkUD1oheoHWo3yf7KWkJHy46mfnNIDcQEPPKMGHmy0uBvACX7_kT27gOtr4glZlci1VxOObelL3M09GJKwKlx8U-as5XI/s320/tower2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was completely taken with the graffiti that covers much of the city and decided to capture some of the more eye catching pieces in my immediate neighborhood. Much of the city center is under construction leaving many older buildings abandoned awaiting repair like beautiful mossy industrial playgrounds. On the first walk to the office I started scouting potential locations for the end of the week. I only had a few hours of day light on the last day for a hooping session so I tried to quickly film in a few spots that were representative of where I had spent my week. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those who have not traveled with hoops before it’s actually quite easy and I highly encourage it. You never know when you are going to find a scenic location. At the very least it provides a chance to de-stress and get some physical activity outside of hauling your carcass to the office each morning and then back to the hotel. There are 3 standard styles of travel hoop you can invest in</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pA6k3pIYoXNE6KffIAj8q11pjicVuCLWo86cBDOR_hhezYvUCsqdka8CNyc6uY5NdgVGQrGoxRDAwKoRM7lVd2FG_U7Zu9ismErnAPQCC2bkd8P4NX5jVWgDm8baJk6a-wxKhemgAgw/s1600/hoops2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8pA6k3pIYoXNE6KffIAj8q11pjicVuCLWo86cBDOR_hhezYvUCsqdka8CNyc6uY5NdgVGQrGoxRDAwKoRM7lVd2FG_U7Zu9ismErnAPQCC2bkd8P4NX5jVWgDm8baJk6a-wxKhemgAgw/s320/hoops2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Segmented – This hoop travels quite well inside luggage or a backpack and usually come in about 7 crescent pieces that can be snapped together. Since there are several connections the tubing is quite heavy to provide durability. Many users report some give at the joints and a creaking sound while hooping. Due to the weight this may be a great option for beginners but not my preferred travel hoop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Infinity Fold – This hoop does not come apart but rather has two pivoting joints that the user twists in order to fold the hoop down. The hoop is twisted to look life a figure 8 and then folded in half. The risk of kinking your tubing is low because bend pressure is always equally distributed. You can also order many sizes and weights of tubing in this style. It takes a little practice to learn how to fold the hoop with confidence but is a very popular option. This design will server you very well until you make the jump to polypro and the weight of the connections become a concern.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coil Down – This hoop has one snap connection and the traveler coils the hoop on itself at least twice and reinserts the connection ends into each other. This effectively halves the size of the hoop for travel. Users should take their time when coiling down the hoop to ensure strain is evenly distributed. It is very easy to kink and ruin your tubing using this technique The connections used for coil down are the lightest and most often used for fast performance hoops and Poly Pro. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">All types of travel hoops are well suited for the different modes of transportation. They take up very little space in a car and can easily be strapped to a backpack for walking or bicycling. The mode of travel that probably gets the most concern from hoopers is air because of the ever changing restrictions. I am happy to report I have traveled with my hoops both domestically and internationally without even a raised eyebrow at security. Many travel hoops will fit inside your checked luggage but you can also strap it on your carry on and it will generally fit in the overhead compartments. I have occasionally stored some of the smaller hoops under the seat and in a really desperate situation the stewardess can be asked for extra room in the coat closet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Your next trip does not have to bring a halt to your practice. You might even be able to expand your hobby in new and unanticipated ways if you keep an open mind. After all this is about loving the process and enjoying the journey. Happy travels!</span></div>
Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-87569110117576109262013-02-14T01:00:00.004-08:002013-02-26T07:38:31.210-08:00The One With Legs<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a confession to make…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am addicted to leggings</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpQ6IiGQvGbR-OWt8A05iZnFgIKDA_t6B9uidoJ11E0O0XH-Ys0TLriUAsaHfjTkJk9JRsTDCXir1tjUVzHIxy8oEGbkb7rIzpP6ZOzvzXffn61Uy9KGXlLvog1rTOdXccKts8lbC2x4/s1600/wolf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidpQ6IiGQvGbR-OWt8A05iZnFgIKDA_t6B9uidoJ11E0O0XH-Ys0TLriUAsaHfjTkJk9JRsTDCXir1tjUVzHIxy8oEGbkb7rIzpP6ZOzvzXffn61Uy9KGXlLvog1rTOdXccKts8lbC2x4/s320/wolf.jpg" uea="true" width="208" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not long ago I was annoyed with the popularity of this garment. They seemed to sever no identifiable purpose other than as a way for hipsters to stratify themselves by dropping a wade of cash on some brand name leggings. Since taking up silks I found I could not do without them and they are even becoming useful in my other circus disciplines like hooping and acrobatics.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For activities like silks, trapeze and lyra the leggings are not only decorative but also serve to protect the aerialist’s legs. You would think that a soft fabric would not pose a large risk to the user but when coupled with your full weight the silk can deliver one hell of a friction burn. The leggings will protect your extremities without getting tangled or hindering your range of motion. For hooping they provide eye catching color and don’t interfere with tricks at the knees. The leggings are also surprisingly good at capturing body heat so even on cold days you should be able to hoop outdoors without hindering your ability to do tricks with bulky thermal clothing.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBaIkUorr-2FVjt4mXDGTHX3iWQHUgnduvFSLxuQVizNUyFpBxQPCpfNVjr5E2foLN1RQOwC9XwUphwelJcEyuSjsazphH85s9NxWdhZR3qQP4hrvrhXsXyZEviMBUzDHB2CAEt22Ku4/s1600/64508_10102043987559441_111317874_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsBaIkUorr-2FVjt4mXDGTHX3iWQHUgnduvFSLxuQVizNUyFpBxQPCpfNVjr5E2foLN1RQOwC9XwUphwelJcEyuSjsazphH85s9NxWdhZR3qQP4hrvrhXsXyZEviMBUzDHB2CAEt22Ku4/s320/64508_10102043987559441_111317874_n.jpg" uea="true" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Snow?...No problem with leggings!</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately some of the most popular brands are quite expensive and for my uses they would be getting a significant amount of wear and tear. Despite all the up side I found to leggings I was not prepared to almost $90 on each pair. I decided to explore what colorful options were open to me without breaking my bank. I am glad to report that the demand from our hipster pals has created quite an excellent market for those us searching for everyday use leggings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some of my favorite vendors for leggings are below<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.romwe.com/accessories-leggings-c-36_45.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Romwe</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.iheartdropdead.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Drop Dead</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Think Geek</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://blackmilkclothing.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black Milk</span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARJAhu1jDok8rA6isU6bc0x3zxBS3_qF7-D_3X0oFlm26yyYV35_NLP9bkrmeY58Q8qUpZ5K_fYO7uHCitlTYnnPWeA5_ljg9tPbOLHyzyJibbvqqtrWmr3P3lSnWU0QthP0GG_Q_jWw/s1600/leggings1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhARJAhu1jDok8rA6isU6bc0x3zxBS3_qF7-D_3X0oFlm26yyYV35_NLP9bkrmeY58Q8qUpZ5K_fYO7uHCitlTYnnPWeA5_ljg9tPbOLHyzyJibbvqqtrWmr3P3lSnWU0QthP0GG_Q_jWw/s320/leggings1.jpg" uea="true" width="320" /></span></em></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Left to Right : Hot Topic, Romwe, Think Geek, Drop Dead</span></em></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Through careful searching you can also find leggings in your local retailers. Two of my friends <a href="http://www.miamoore.net/" target="_blank">Mia Moore</a> and Dani Bliss have had luck finding leggings at Forever 21. Hot Topic has carried various leggings in store as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are several popular styles of leggings that can be considered for the acrobatic endeavors. Spandex blend is what you will most commonly find for bright patterned leggings. These are great choices for the silks but due to the thin nature of the fabric when doing drops or working on other apparatus like lyra some performers prefer a cotton blend. The cotton blend does not slide along fabric as smoothly as the spandex but it provides a little more cushion. The cotton blends are most commonly solid color or woven patterns. You will want to steer clear of anything with stirrups or closed feet. You will typically use your feet to grip at some point in all of the circus arts and putting a barrier between you and the apparatus is going to make the task more difficult.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since my conversion the only problem I have found with leggings is it is very hard to just buy one pair. Once you find how useful and adaptable they are you will be filling your closet with every color and pattern.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em>Leggings are compact for travel and double for accessories or exercise</em></span></td></tr>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-34630816195906182702013-02-08T12:48:00.000-08:002013-02-20T11:41:51.813-08:00The One With A Twist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have never been a bendy person. As a child I was a disappointment to my gymnastics teachers. I was a consummate failure at basic moves like the splits or back bends. So when I started aerial silks in January I knew that something was going to either have to bend or I was going to risk breaking myself in the process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My first silks class resulted in a struggle as all my fellow student gracefully went through their warm up stretches. While the teacher was encouraging them to touch heads to knees and hands to ankles I was left feeling grossly disproportioned as I groped desperately after my feet like a t-rex trying to tie a shoe. When it came time to straddle I was acutely aware of how little my legs would spread. To an outsider it probably didn’t look like I was even trying.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I did discover while the stubbornness of age has not improved my physical flexibility it has given me the fortitude to follow through and improve. Each session I committed to the fullest extent of my puny stretch and remembered given time even the most ridged tree can learn to bend. Before exiting each position I take one final exhale and try to reach just a bit further than I think I can. After a month I am just now starting to give my knees a kiss during warm ups. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The nice think about stretching is you can do it anywhere, it’s good for you and it doesn’t require equipment. For this blog I have included some of my favorite stretches that have helped to increase my flexibility over the last month. When I am not in class I do not like to feel like I am “working out” so these are things I can do while I am surfing the net or lounging around the house.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Shoulder Stretches</strong> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">This is probably the first stretch I do each session. Even if you are stiff it should not be uncomfortable and warms up the muscles for some of the tougher stretches. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>1.</strong> Spread your feet about shoulder width apart and make your back and arms as flat as possible and lean into the wall. If you have silk to grip that is another fine option. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>2.</strong> After a few deep breaths move your hands down your support about 4 inches. Remember to keep your back as flat as possible. As you roll down try to point your tailbone up. This helps to keep you from slouching</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.</strong> Continue Step 2 a couple more time until your hands are on the floor</span></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Ankle & Wrist Stretches</span><o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">This stretch is easy to do directly after your shoulders because you are already down on the floor. Your hands and feet are important tools for silks and acrobatics so it is good to make sure they are ready for use.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>1.</strong> With your legs and hands about shoulder width apart walk your hands up over your head. Splay your fingers and try to put your weight evenly into your hands and press the floor down. As you walk up roll up on your toes and flex the ankles.<br /><strong>2.</strong> Roll down off your toes and walk your hands back between your legs. Palms should be on the floor with fingers pointed between your legs. Remember to keep your tailbone pointed towards the ceiling to keep your position as straight as possible. If you need to widen your stance to touch the floor go ahead</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.</strong> Repeat Steps 1 & 2 several times. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7abfTVlhIsmrNRo0ItxlIqSHJjQRNygOb253OHGQBoEJyaChPEfFMfeqw7t_TVB7M-_w70M87gfW7MB7mHjRAxQmpRGNYBLskOevXdqQIncZIvPlhWhjU0u7p8KKMD1DQxLfMuSVQ6c/s1600/flexibility+wall+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7abfTVlhIsmrNRo0ItxlIqSHJjQRNygOb253OHGQBoEJyaChPEfFMfeqw7t_TVB7M-_w70M87gfW7MB7mHjRAxQmpRGNYBLskOevXdqQIncZIvPlhWhjU0u7p8KKMD1DQxLfMuSVQ6c/s320/flexibility+wall+3.jpg" width="290" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWKu91j4hPkNOSFNDzU6-SoXPluknGpTO5gqaga1GSoEjQWYRqJz5o-4ErVgoQy2L9yQTGN3moCEKV-3hsjotvAZedpmu9P_8TNqf42V3JR5qmVsggrB9G5vzdtyu_L65NBNPuMOKQN8/s1600/flexibility+wall+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWKu91j4hPkNOSFNDzU6-SoXPluknGpTO5gqaga1GSoEjQWYRqJz5o-4ErVgoQy2L9yQTGN3moCEKV-3hsjotvAZedpmu9P_8TNqf42V3JR5qmVsggrB9G5vzdtyu_L65NBNPuMOKQN8/s320/flexibility+wall+4.jpg" width="236" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Straddle</strong> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Your ability to split is going to almost always improve the ascetics of your routine as well as make reaching different positions easier. If you only work on one thing a day I recommend the straddle. It's not an easy move but persistence will pay off. There are many positions you can do from a basic straddle I have just included the one I use most frequently.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>1.</strong> Spread your legs as far apart as comfortable. If that is only a small V fine go for it. Proper position is far more important than the width of the straddle.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>2.</strong> Sit straight up with a flat back and point your hips to the floor. This should help give you a flat back. If you are arching your back it is not going to improve your straddle. Sitting correctly should feel like a slight tension where your inner thigh meets your hip</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>3.</strong> Lay your left elbow on the ground inside your left leg and reach your right arm over head toward your left foot. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>4.</strong> Make sure your torso is pointed forward and your back is straight. For a better stretch try pointing your toes too. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>5.</strong> Remember proper position is more important than how deep your stretch is. Time and persistence will improve the rest. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><strong>6.</strong> When you bring your legs back together remember to do it slowly and shake them out as you go. Be nice to your muscles!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZfEDZ8z7V9Hace1y1SS-NhnieJq6frgLwsVcuKq5A3mULdBh6MYWHXHc9tHprBBceMsVU_iJpwWt4Zba3WZFgXHcBFVJYkZgOy3uhzIa-SNuEXFl56BBj088QFTfGFkkmPwbpjfyOo-A/s1600/flexibility+straddle+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZfEDZ8z7V9Hace1y1SS-NhnieJq6frgLwsVcuKq5A3mULdBh6MYWHXHc9tHprBBceMsVU_iJpwWt4Zba3WZFgXHcBFVJYkZgOy3uhzIa-SNuEXFl56BBj088QFTfGFkkmPwbpjfyOo-A/s320/flexibility+straddle+2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU8gGaGVhwprfT7v8JtLMVEZlkuoVPZyMkuzU2hDUTIAnpFsdsSThB6mF0wDZTqkVIuLGcPzYTbga8bonj310T_wNax3Ygnu8yGvLetyzE49wnG-V-ZLqLkZ6009nzkYT3wTJNY8jSgg/s1600/felxibility+straddle+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU8gGaGVhwprfT7v8JtLMVEZlkuoVPZyMkuzU2hDUTIAnpFsdsSThB6mF0wDZTqkVIuLGcPzYTbga8bonj310T_wNax3Ygnu8yGvLetyzE49wnG-V-ZLqLkZ6009nzkYT3wTJNY8jSgg/s320/felxibility+straddle+1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pike</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is a simple stretch for your hamstring. I also feel like I can track my overall flexibility.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>1.</strong> Sit with your legs together and toes pointed</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>2.</strong> Reach towards your toes while keeping your back as flat as possible</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.</strong> If you can't reach do not give up! Breath in exhale and try to reach a little further.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>4.</strong> Once you can reach your toes you can further improve the stretch by trying to touch your belly and torso to your knees.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Roll Down<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This borders on being conditioning vs a stretch but due to how simple and important it is I decided to include it. Your ability to be flexibility does not just depend on how much you stretch but also your core strength and ability to hold positions. The roll down is an low impact way to quickly improve some of your core<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>1.</strong> From a seated position with back straight tuck your butt under and suck your stomach in towards your spine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>2.</strong> Hold your hands either out at your sides or in front of you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.</strong> SLOWLY begin to lay back starting from your hips to your shoulders. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>4.</strong> If you are doing it correct it should take an agonizing amount of time to actually lay down. You are supporting yourself with your abs and core only.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>5.</strong> Once you are all the way down stretch your hands over your head and enjoy an leisurely stretch from head to toe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Congratulations, you are on your way to becoming a more flexible person!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-22753012130951456962013-02-03T15:33:00.001-08:002013-02-08T10:43:16.952-08:00The One With The Origin Story<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">“Why circus”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSX2yYJfnLoKMxX9IqNO21E6f8TZsTI4uQdmWzWZ2AwxYz6C8bOJzsl4pqHaTMg6IoBkH3qtmDluHX-Zj5_pt5LH2aNHfrMiW_J43S5xNXzVTrJKjN862Xg8PH7iucNNZeZU07iCez99E/s1600/Why.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSX2yYJfnLoKMxX9IqNO21E6f8TZsTI4uQdmWzWZ2AwxYz6C8bOJzsl4pqHaTMg6IoBkH3qtmDluHX-Zj5_pt5LH2aNHfrMiW_J43S5xNXzVTrJKjN862Xg8PH7iucNNZeZU07iCez99E/s320/Why.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s a question I have been asked many times this year but
one I have trouble answering. I began examining all the times circus has
crossed a path across my life. Going through a closet at my parent’s house I
unearthed what was probably the first piece of art I could remember wanting to
hang on my wall. It was a print of the unfinished circus painting by Georges
Seurat. I obviously identified with the impish woman in a tutu parading around
the circus ring on a spirited mount. I would go on to spend many summers of my
youth on a ranch attempting to vault from galloping horses or riding backwards
to the amusement of anyone who might be watching.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvwsR0eFDvMMfl__4mt6kf5OZWBBjPYtZqpBkwQovYerTB2Yon-nzpCi8KawD-yN_A-C4KoPVIi_SyA5Te50pQS0C9jKEN8uYP0T34Y4Y-nA1zDWZ1V3RGn8TvvkpXC8eLMTb68q8dnc/s1600/Blog+1+frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvwsR0eFDvMMfl__4mt6kf5OZWBBjPYtZqpBkwQovYerTB2Yon-nzpCi8KawD-yN_A-C4KoPVIi_SyA5Te50pQS0C9jKEN8uYP0T34Y4Y-nA1zDWZ1V3RGn8TvvkpXC8eLMTb68q8dnc/s320/Blog+1+frame.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm pretty sure the likeness is uncanny</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Maybe my taste for absurdest comedy and white face paint was
solidified by my youth theater group when I was cast to play Pickles the clown.
To this day I can clearly remember my mentor attempting to explain the
mechanics of slapstick comedy to me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But it was so obvious...<o:p></o:p>I should have seen it coming</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scully after her first performance</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But all these experiences were in my past. In my adult life
traditional circus was almost a thing of the past. Elephants and tigers were
retired for extravagant stage shows show casing human talent. But as the circus
change though so did I. I traded in my childish whimsy for an industrial attitude
and there was no time for clowning around. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scully in the office</span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I enrolled in the Arizona State University and earned a
degree in Supply Chain management. It was all strictly business when I accepted
a job at a corporation and relocated to Texas to begin my life as an “Adult”. However, it took me several years to learn that
the most important part of being an adult is staying true to yourself and in my
case that means being just a little bit silly. Slowing my quirkiness started leaking into the office and
when the right door was opened…</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20pl0M6WDdzp0b4YzGlsv9f2e7pb54SLYDdeM2rofdERf4a680U9ChOrqeqoejmAtA_c2_-EB4ZpWIFz4FiL1J9ZeLIV0vsI_dO3hdJIb-FzRG2l4Yz9Ryh1u9cN32imLXWCNwfmRaPQ/s1600/1-The-Devils-Carnival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20pl0M6WDdzp0b4YzGlsv9f2e7pb54SLYDdeM2rofdERf4a680U9ChOrqeqoejmAtA_c2_-EB4ZpWIFz4FiL1J9ZeLIV0vsI_dO3hdJIb-FzRG2l4Yz9Ryh1u9cN32imLXWCNwfmRaPQ/s320/1-The-Devils-Carnival.jpg" width="219" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dark circus?...Yes Please!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I took the opportunity! What I was surprised to find on the
other side was a flourishing circus community. I was completely engrossed by
the vibrant, dynamic and truly amazing people that make up circus. It’s not all
silliness, face paint and balloon animals…okay there is a lot of that…but there
is also skill, beauty and tradition that permeates this culture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So when people ask me “Why Circus?” the only response I can
muster is “Why not…”. Why not this colorful and challenging discipline? Why not
learn a new skill? Why not make someone smile? And so in probably the least
traditional fashion possible I have run away to join the circus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2tQks3S2V2ZV3CqAtLUThlNq9mcRRX9nF_fUhpelS3BBKNblOlATj62IIxxEC68xLujFTwq0dFL4BnSoaTFLqWGQgWqlLUQ-qZYGiDaER-H01-hvjWZzDQLSo_ejo4XmLKiIZcFL2lA/s1600/fun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2tQks3S2V2ZV3CqAtLUThlNq9mcRRX9nF_fUhpelS3BBKNblOlATj62IIxxEC68xLujFTwq0dFL4BnSoaTFLqWGQgWqlLUQ-qZYGiDaER-H01-hvjWZzDQLSo_ejo4XmLKiIZcFL2lA/s320/fun.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I invite you to join me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6220591968652040439.post-46204533070869143532013-01-30T14:27:00.002-08:002013-01-30T14:27:51.285-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Scullyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18001068466901998991noreply@blogger.com0