In preparation for my Thanksgiving day workshop at Capitol Hill Yoga, I am dedicating a post a day this November to honoring my many teachers on this yoga journey.

When I applied to take the Anusara Immersion at Willow Street Yoga, I had never met Moses Brown; however, I had certainly heard about his reputation for being a super teacher that would keep you in stitches throughout class.  He did not disappoint.  Whether waxing philosophical about the Bhagavad Gita or questioning whether lululemon pants actually increased one’s ability to perform asana, Mo always kept me interested and entertained.  I soon began to understand his large and devoted following.

That said, asana with Moses was a challenge for me.  He loves holding you in poses for approximately forever, something I didn’t appreciate at the time.  He also had us meditate regularly, for what seemed like hours (and was probably twenty minutes.)  Back then, I was not a meditator, and the idea of “quieting my mind” seemed completely unattainable.  But somewhat begrudgingly, I began to soften.  At first, I merely tolerated the longer holds and slower (to my mind) asana practice, wondering when we’d get moving, but I began to enjoy it as the immersion went on.  It was a different kind of practice for me, one I would not have chosen, but one that was very good for me mentally and physically.  He has a wonderful way of keeping you open, even when you feel like you might be annoyed that you’re still in a pose, you can’t really hold it against him because he’s got bright eyes and a great smile.

I am thankful to Moses for keeping us laughing, whether while steeped in philosophical concepts that seemed beyond our grasp, or in the forty-third minute of down dog (give or take….)  I am thankful to Mo for keeping me centered and connected during a very busy year.  For redefining my relationship with the four corners of my feet.  For opening the door just a sliver to the idea that I might one day enjoy meditating.  For being a strong, solid guy in the midst of hundreds of lululemon-clad, pedicured ladies and having a great grounding energy.

Thank you, Moses!