TESTIMONIALS
If you have had an extraordinary experience with Ricky and would like to share it with the world, please submit your testimonial/review by filling out the form below.
Thank you!
If you have had an extraordinary experience with Ricky and would like to share it with the world, please submit your testimonial/review by filling out the form below.
Thank you!
Ricky Tran is a yogi. He is a good person and I endorse and support.
David Williams - David is responsible for teaching the Ashtanga Yoga system to many of today's leading teachers and practitioners, including David Swenson, Doug Swenson, Danny Paradise, Bryan Kest, Jonny Kest, Tracy Rich, Chuck Miller, Maty Ezraty, Kathy Cooper and Andrew Eppler. David is also the first and only Westerner to learn the entire Ashtanga system directly from K Pattabhi Jois. www.ashtangayogi.com Ricky Tran is a very talented Yoga practitioner and teacher. His asana and vinyasa practice is beautiful and inspiring; It was a joy to have him as my student! Sri Srivatsa Ramaswami E-RYT 500 - Author The Complete Book of Vinyasa Yoga, Yoga Beneath the Surface, Yoga for the Three Stages of Life (Srivatsa Ramswami is T. Krishnamacharya's longest standing student outside the immediate family. This is longer than K Pattabhi Jois (Ashtanga Vinyasa) and BKS Iyengar (Iyengar Method). www.vinyasakrama.com Ricky's classes are the most fun I've had in yoga in a long time! Jill Underhill Houston, TX My wife and I have been practicing yoga for about 12 years. We have been fairly consistent in our practice and have seen improvement through our dedication. We have attended numerous workshops with well known yoga instructors and have enjoyed and learned from them. However, after attending a 3-day workshop with Ricky in Houston, we will have to say that we have never experienced anyone who has motivated us as much to attain a higher level in our yogic journey. Ricky's non-intimidating style and knowledge would benefit anyone interested in exploring the benefits of yoga, whether they are a beginner,intermediate, or advanced student. Mike and Mary Kirk Houston, TX I am 57 years old, I've been going to Ricky Tran Yoga for 3 months now. I have never done Yoga before, I did it just on suggestion from some folks that I was working with and I thought what the heck, and I have to say it has been a great experience. Ricky is an amazing teacher. The yoga is one of the hardest things I've ever done. But I've realized that even though I'm with people who can turn themselves into pretzels and I can barely fold over there is still something there for me. I can still do it to the top of my ability and that's what Ricky brings out - everyone's individual best. That's what he's looking for in each person. Tom Hindman Dallas, TX Practicing Yoga with Ricky Tran has taken my athletic career and personal growth to a whole new level. The benefits that can be taken from yoga with Ricky is not just greater flexibility and overall strength, but I believe the most incredible benefits are with the mind. One of the key components to the Heptathlon is being successful in keeping a calm mind (equanimity). Learning to not overreact to the good or bad, being able to keep a very stable mind to perform seven events in two days successfully. What separates Ricky from the rest, is his knowledge of how to train the mind and I believe that is the most crucial part of yoga and takes it to a whole different level and experience. Training many hours everyday for track and field takes a lot out of my mind and body and now practicing yoga completely rejuvenates me to bring my track training to a new height! I feel now working with Ricky is such an advantage to my training and I feel it is my little secret ingredient to success!!!! Diana Pickler 2008 Olympian 4 Time USA Champion The Essence of Yoga workshop with Ricky Tran was a very special experience for me. Throughout the weekend he continually brought me back to the source of Yoga and by the end I had remembered and surrendered to the beauty of all that is life and all that is Yoga. He is a humble Yogi with a beautiful, inspiring story to tell and a genuine interest in encouraging consistent Yoga practice for his students. I would take any opportunity to practice with him again and again. Amber DeHerrera Durango, CO I have taken a couple of Ricky's "Floating and Flying" workshops before, and thought I had a good idea of what to expect when I signed up for the 3-day "Essence of Yoga" workshop...was I wrong...! Ricky has so much knowledge to gift, and in addition to witnessing his unbelievable practice, the ability he has to impart yogic philosophy is remarkably concise and comprehensive - even in the short amount of time he had to present it. Because of this workshop, I have a renewed thirst for a deeper knowledge of that which is "yoga", and in addition to deepening my self study, I am anxious to revisit Ricky at any other of his workshops that I'm able. It was such a beautiful way to spend the weekend, and Ricky's style of delivery was just delightful. I look forward to more! Thanks Ricky! Sheri Novas, Tyler, TX Yoga Review: Ricky Tran, The Urban Yogi November 2010 I just came back from a great yoga immersion with Ricky Tran at Stroga in Adams Morgan. Watching him suspend in midair, stand on is head and morph into a human lizard was incredible. But what I love about Ricky's style is his return to the yoga fundamentals- Breath, Asana and Meditation. In an era of celebrity yoga instructors, overpriced classes and a largely upper class fitness trend, Ricky Tran is a refreshing breath of yogic air. While grooving to hip hop beats, Ricky repeatedly spouted simple messages like,"Jesus practiced Bhakti Yoga through Devotion!", "Yoga should be fun!" and "Squeeze your anus." (mula banda). Basically to remind us of the fundamentals and the ultimate true goal of yoga- "To reduce suffering so that one can achieve true freedom." Ricky Tran is one of the few self-described "Urban Yogis" that blends real life experience with the often difficult spiritual practice of yoga. Yoga needs more down to earth colorful yogis like Tran. He has the potential to reach get the word out to communities like Anacostia that yoga is for everyone and can drastically improve your mental, physical and spiritual and social well-being. Anacostia Yogi Washington, DC Dear Ricky - I am STILL positively struck by your November workshops here in DC. I have attended yoga classes of many styles, shapes and forms since 1993. Some feel right; others not. So I want to thank you. Although your Asana is quite advanced, you give alignment cues that enhance the individual's practice and keep students safe; you make anyone at a "lower" level feel 100% accepted and honored; and you joyously cheer on those who are going for the "higher" level shape. Thank you for keeping a Bhakti vibe through your entire class and not abandoning it (or us) for your own motives. Thank you for being an 8-Limb yogi...is there any other kind, really? Much respect and love. Holly Meyers Certified Yoga Instructor Washington, DC UrbanYogaDen.wordpress.com I have been practicing Ashtanga yoga for nearly 8 years, in that time I have learned and trained with the best of teachers, David Swenson, Melanie Fawer, and Manju Jois to name a few. I would add Ricky to the list of master teachers. His knowledge of the practice along with the original teachings has brought insight, freshness, and a renewed excitement for this system of yoga. He teaches with compassion and non-judgement. Assisting when needed and words of encouragement to keep the student motivated. He is quick to remind us, that yoga is about breathing and feeling good. About staying present and moving towards our authentic selves as we surrender the ego and move into a state of stillness during the powerful practice of Ashtanga yoga. Peace and Joy Karen Higgins Longview, TX I am training to be a yoga instructor and when I heard Ricky Tran was coming to Houston I immediately signed up for the weekend immersion. It was such an honor and a blessing to hear his testimony and to witness the amazing things he can do with his mind, body, and breath. I felt like a sponge as I tried my best to soak all he had to offer!!! As a school teacher I was grateful to witness his wisdom as I have a passion for acquiring knowledge. I can not wait to take another workshop with Ricky!! He is truly amazing. Davina D. Houston, TX I liked how you began the flying class with your demo of sun salutations, teaching us that the advanced poses are rooted in the basics. I'm always amazed at how gravity gives you a holiday, Ricky. I also really appreciated instruction in the pranayama and bandhas class because I haven't learned much about those topics yet. Pretty much all of my training this far in yoga (over ten years) has been related to asana or meditation, but you opened my mind to new information that is not as readily available in books or in classes. Thanks for sharing your wisdom with us! Cami Hewett Houston, TX When my yogi friends asked if I wanted to sign up for one of Ricky Tran's weekend workshops, I said "sure" even though I had no idea who he is. When I looked at the workshop's descriptions and his pictures, I decided that we should take both workshops, not just one of them. Turn out that was a good idea, we enjoyed both workshops tremendously and all agreed that his workshops were the best among those that we have taken. We learned a lot of things in class... adjusting your poses so you can improve and move to the next level, doing them with a clear sets of mind of what you are trying to achieve, learning small secrets that help you get closer to nail down a posture...but most of all is the great yoga spirit that Ricky instilled in each one of us regardless of our levels and experiences. Not every great yogi is a great yoga instructor in my opinion, you have to truly believe in what you are teaching, live and practice what you preached, have compassion and have enlightened yourself in your yoga journey to be a true yoga instructor. I have not had that much experiences with the great yoga masters so it's only a limited observation but I believe Ricky is one of them for sure. It was an enlightened and wonderful experience and I hope to have many more chances to learn from Ricky. Kim Tuyen Tran Houston, TX I've practiced and studied yoga and meditation for more than 10 years. I've attended and taught yoga classes around the world and I can say without reserve that Ricky Tran is a world-class yoga instructor. I first met Ricky at two-day seminar. It was obvious that he knew what he was talking about, and there was plenty that I could learn from him. After two days, I couldn't get enough. So I signed up for a week-long seminar. During that week, my yoga and meditation practice improved by leaps and bounds. With his help and guidance, I was able to do poses that I never dreamed possible! His instruction has helped to open new vistas for both my personal practice and my teaching. Jessica W Ft. Worth, TX I took a leap of faith when I signed up for Ricky Tran’s 50 hour Transformational Training. I had never met Ricky before, but I had seen his incredible “Art of Floating and Flying” video on youtube. Taking his training has been one of my best decisions. Ricky is truly authentic yogi and a wonderfully compassionate teacher. He makes sure everyone feels included, no matter their level of practice. With his instruction I am now trying and achieving poses that I could not do before. And, I am learning about the true essence of yoga. My good friend (who is taking the training with me) and I agree this is the best training we have had. And, we want to continue to study with Ricky. Kathy Hayden Tyler, TX I had the pleasure of taking classes with Ricky Tran while he was teaching at Equinox in Dallas. However, recently I decided to treat myself to one of his two day workshops. This lovely weekend gift gave me the opportunity to see yoga from his deeper perspective and fill in some "yoga blanks" that I didn't realize existed for myself. At the end of the workshop, I felt fantastic and my energy level was expansive. I attribute my added awareness to Ricky's ability to create an easy learning environment coupled with a clear verbal approach to his teaching. I highly recommend Ricky for beginning students and advanced students in need of a review and a refreshing experience. Sincerely, Ellen Borlenghi www.thespiritualexpress.com Ricky Tran is a yoga extroadinaire! Ricky inspires all those who know him. What a beautiful light he shines on all of us! What a talented, beautiful and true man we have in our midsts!! Jeanine Marie Austin, ph.d., c.ht. life coaching and hypnotherapy worldwide www.SimplyDivineSolutions.com Ricky Tran is an awesome yogi and teacher. I went to one of Ricky’s beginner series in September 09, at the request of a friend, who wanted somebody to go with her. When I saw who was giving the class, and I read about him, my first thought was “OH NO”, he’s going to kick my butt in class. I was very intimated to walk through the door on that evening of the first class. But to my surprise and delight, Ricky was wonderful. Regardless of experience and body type, which on both accounts mine were not the best, Ricky made me and the rest of the class feel like we could succeed . I looked forward to each class even thought there were times that hour and a half was very long. I always ended up feeling great . Ricky took the time to work with me, giving me encouragement, and pointing out ways I could do better, while working with my own limitations. Ricky also had the patience to answer all my “newbie” questions. Since that first beginner series I have signed up for another series with Ricky and a workshop. Each time I have learned something new about yoga and about myself. He opened up a world to me that I didn’t know existed. If you ever have a chance to attend one of his classes or workshops , you will not walk away disappointed. Namaste, Connie Reese FLower Mound, TX I first met Ricky in a class at Sacred Movement in Venice, CA. He was traveling around to practice with the great teachers outside of his hometown…and now he has become one. Fast forward 2 years…I recently got to take my first class with him during a trip of his back out to Los Angeles and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with him and his teaching. He is a very open and honest yogi and his surrender to the practice is immediately evident. If you ever get the chance to practice with him, run, don't walk, to wherever he is and absorb what he has to share. Joshua Mikael Santa Monica, CA I signed up for Ricky Tran's workshop looking to further my teaching skills. I have been teaching since 2008 and recently hit a stagnant point, a lull, that I wanted to get out of. I had been adjusting my students the same way in the same poses for a while now and wanted to learn something different, something that would add a new edge to my classes. I signed up for the Adjustments 101 & 102 workshops and it those two classes I learned so much! Who knew that you could adjust Down Dog in so many different ways? Ricky was always very attentive and stayed close to make sure every detail was correct. I never felt timid or scared to adjust with Ricky's watchful eye right there with us. Although 6 hours may seem like a short time for two workshops, it has already made a significant difference in my classes. My students especially love the Shavasana adjustments and Thai massage that Ricky so graciously taught me. I've always loved adjusting students and now I'm able to take it a step further but being able to watch their bodies and notice what they need. Also, I actually was able to sign up a new private client due to my new extended knowledge! True story: Client saw me teaching a class through the class window and contacted me stating that my adjustments and hand's on care for my students led them to me. I'm extremely excited to be able to share my new knowledge with my student's and fellow yogi's. I am also thankful to Ricky Tran for spending the time and energy to pass his wisdom down to a new era of yogi's. Namaste, Sonya Pepping Dallas, TX RICKY T GETS IT!!! Period. His in depth yoga knowledge and ability to teach on all levels are 2nd to none. This combined w/ his ability to verbalize and walk students through pose structure, what you should & shouldn't be feeling combined w/ his now infamous "Darth Vader" breathing exercise, make him a fav instructor from coast to coast. I recently followed him from my hometown Dallas to West Palm, FL where he was giving a workshop. All i can say is. . . time well spent. Look forward to expanding my knowledge/practice and attending future workshops. Cheers. Mark Dallas, TX Ricky Tran is amazing! He speaks and teaches from his heart.... he is gentle, buy persuasive... his knowledge is grounded and he doesn't mind saying, "I don't know". Only a true master can admit that he cannot possibley know it all when it comes to yoga. Today he said, "in order to teach yoga, you must be a yogi." I agree. Yoga is much more than asanas. He blends ancient knowledge with our western way of thinking and brings it all home...... so that we can apply it and pass it on... and that, is, as it should be. Yoga is a journey. Thanks Ricky....... I love your energy. I will definitely continue following you..... Rhonda Corley Sherman, TX This is the second workshop I've taken with Ricky and I was pleasantly surprised to find it was completely different from the first. Ricky's growth as a teacher is incredible, and he has developed his natural warmth and light into an ability to bring out the best in your practice without you even realizing how hard you are working. Ricky is challenging and fun. I'm extending a stay in Dallas over the summer just to make sure I get some 'Ricky-time". Ricky works to all levels with equal attention and ease. He is a great teacher for a yogi with 3 months or 30 years of practice. I'll be taking workshops with Ricky for many years to come! Jacquie Smolak West Palm Beach, FL I was very impressed with your yoga instruction (I had no idea you'd already been teaching for 5 hours!) From my perspective you have everything it takes. I am no yoga expert, but I have studied a lot of Buddhism, and it seems to me that the great teachers in all walks of life exhibit authority through compassion. I was aware of that the whole time you were teaching. There is no judgement on your part of students such as myself who are neophytes in the physical yoga realm. It is very refreshing to see someone as young as you who is enlightened, understanding, and humble about his place in the universe. I think it is a good thing that you travel with your gift, because where ever you go you leave desperately needed seeds of love and compassion and from my experience a seed of that kind is never wasted. It always sprouts - even if it takes lifetimes. Much love and light to you on your journeys - I look forward to future yoga sessions with you. Truly, Lise Houston, TX I told my friend on the way to the workshop that I didn't expect to be able to do most of what Ricky taught. The pictures I saw were far more advanced than I am capable of at this point in my practice. But I did go in with the intention of learning as much as possible for future use. I was very excited after the Fri arm balance and inversion class. I immediately appreciated Ricky's depth of knowledge of yoga as well as the distance his own personal journey has taken him. But what was most exciting was the demonstration followed by instruction that benefited the beginner (her first workshop) through the intermediate (me) to the most advanced student (G). Not one person was left out. Ricky provided instruction that I have since brought back and utilized in my classes to help all levels of students. The Bhanda and breathing sessions were excellent. I have attended several workshops. Most address breathing, some talk about using bhandas but this was the first to provide extensive instruction and practice on them. Sunday was just as excellent. We practiced everything he had taught and took it to a deeper level and added more to the practice.The other thing that is noteworthy is the energy that Ricky brought. The majority of the group had been to a workshop a few weeks before. We were a group that came and left in separate directions. After the Ricky workshop we were friends. We laughed, talked, shared, became Facebook friends. We are attending each others classes and studios, we are sharing ideas and beliefs and so much more. That is HUGE! Ricky laughs, tells jokes, admits when something is hard even for him, adjusts, sings, demonstrates, answers questions, is patient and didn't forget us when he left. That is what workshops are about. That comes from the giving of self--the true self. Everyone agrees--"Yoga is FUN but Yoga is not EASY!" Thank you Ricky. Kathy Yoga Instructor Extraordinaire @ Lake Barkley Fitness Center, KY The Nashville Yoga Crawl was a huge undertaking we had no idea if it was going to work. Not only did it work it, it sold out! Ricky had his hands full and it was a big responsibility to put on one teacher. If it was a test Ricky got an A+. He was so attentive and compassionate. With many levels of students no one was left behind and everyone that wanted a challenge was served! My personal experience was utter joy. Ricky is a very down to earth Yogi and when he explains something it just makes sense. When you watch him demonstrate something you thought impossible you can see and understand how it IS possible. There were no tricks only tools no mystical solutions just "right knowledge". Ricky is a hard working yogi whom I have great respect for. Gillian St. Clair Nashville, TN I was mesmerized by the strength and fluidity of Ricky's practice and was moved by his natural ability to easily share the details and techniques in his style. Spending time with him inspired me to find the foundation in my practice from where I can begin to learn to float and fly. Molly Spessard Nashville, TN Ricky is the best instructor that I have had in my five years of yoga. I have been members at several health clubs and have never experienced a class like his. His understanding and emphasis on breathing techniques with emphasis on the most basic poses is the first yoga class that gave me a cardio workout. His amazing techniques and abilities from one hand inversions to head stands make him a true yoga Jedi. I look forward to each and every class, knowing that my body will be taken to the next level. Charles Kandutsch Author, Eat The Right Foods "Ricky's class transformed my understanding of yoga. While I have had excellent teachers prior to Ricky, he took my practice to a new level by deepening my understanding of the the essence of the fundamentals. In doing this, he not only clarified my yoga practice, but these impacted my running, my work and even my personal patterns." ~Scott Granowski I was very intimidated and apprehensive about beginning yoga. I felt as if I wouldn't know what to do or how to do the poses. Ricky squashed all those feelings within the first 5 minutes of his class. He guides you from start to finish while also helping you with small adjustments here and there. The classes themselves are very laid back with males/females of all ages and fitness levels. Ricky's yoga has helped me with my strength, balance, range of motion, and most importantly my breathing. I seriously look forward to the days that Ricky is teaching a class. He's Great! Troy Dallas, TX Ricky uses descriptions that work for the true beginner that will not leave you lost. His classes are fun and keep you really engaged so that you leave feeling the warmth of your heart and body transformed. Ana Shoemaker Dallas, TX Ricky Tran - You are the most gifted yogi I have ever crosssed paths with. Your yoga school will be a massive success. Robert Sturman Santa Monica, CA Ricky is a very pationate yoga instructor that truly blends mind/soul with body and where the former leads the latter and not the other way around. His sessions have the simplicity of minimalistic architecture and design, where simple movements yield powerful results. It seems as though at every session he embarks in this personal challenge to make you both healthier and at peace. I started yoga because of back pain I had been fighting for the last 5 years. The pain is practically gone, Ricky sessions have made me stronger and I am happy to have become a yoga addict, I have found the endorphins, elasticity, strength and most importantly, peace of mind I was looking for. Armando Del Bosque Dallas, TX Ricky came to me through a friend from Dallas. I live in California and only wish I could have met him earlier. I shared with him of my back issues. I had been in pain for almost the entirety of 2008. A recent MRI showed a protruding disk. The orthopedic surgeon recommended physical therapy with traction and pain meds (before going to a highly invasive surgery). That night I met Ricky, he came over and showed me some poses that would provide traction for my back and gently assisted with some stretching out the vertebrae. He then introduced me to Yin Yoga. That night, for the first time, I did not wake up with shooting pain down my back in the middle of the night. The next night too. He came again and went over a set of poses and introduced me to a new one that completely opened up my hear center and felt like a new person from that moment on. What a release! It all works together. I am now going to try yoga as my therapy and feel a confidence in it as a solution thanks to Ricky!! No back surgery for me! Tara Playa Vista, CA Taking private lessons with Ricky is truly a luxury to my overall well-being. Even my chiropractor can see the differences my yoga practice is making each week with Ricky's advanced instruction and intuitive body adjustments. I can't thank him enough for how my body is transforming on a weekly basis--just in time for my next birthday when you want to look and feel your best! I Honor You, Ricky! Terry Swaner Dallas, TX Ricky is extremely knowledgeable and his ability to move your body into position and transform your poses is incredible. Your body and mind will feel unbelievably energized and at the same time, at ease. Ricky goes the extra mile to help you if you have additional needs or questions about your own body or a specific situation you are experiencing. If you have the opportunity, you will be so happy you tried Ricky's yoga session!" Karlyn H Dallas, TX After class yesterday I got very emotional. I really liked the let go breathing technique you taught me. As you know that is one of the areas in my life I have the most difficulty with, so I feel like it got into my bones. After class I was able to let go of a fear I have had for the past 6 weeks and I had the courage to take action against it. And it worked and I called the person and told him what I was afraid of. I felt so much better that I could do that. I wasn't able to sleep at all last night, I don't know why. Maybe I was too excited about being able to let go in that situation. Anonymous Personal Client I would describe Ricky's yoga style--for someone like me who is challenged by an intense practice within my own personal levels--as an empowering mind-body experience. By him, you will experience how breathing techniques lead the practise, calm the mind and allow you to go deeper into poses which can become effortless. Ricky's demonstration of biomechanically correct postures have led to openings that my mind and body now crave to master. Ricky Tran rates five-stars! His professional demeanor transmits trust, honor and respect as he genuinely helps others receive from a rewarding yoga practise. Will you see his name on yoga mats, instructional books or DVDs- definitely maybe! I'm just glad I have had the opportunity to practise with him while he's on the cusp of a dynamic future. Terry Dallas, TX I have been practicing yoga regularly for 4 years. I have studied the body and the mind for 7 years professionally and personally. I have a vested interest in yoga, because I have chronic debilitating pain for up to a week each month during my cycle. I also have severe scoliosis that creates pain as well. Depending on the day, my personal yoga practice ranges from being thankful that I showed up, to feeling strong and healthy. My intention with Ricky is to create a higher awareness about my body that could be contributing to my pain and feel some relief because of that awareness. I have experienced 3 sessions with Ricky so far and I felt an instant peaceful connection with him. His confidence, professionalism, and passion for yoga is apparent. His enthusiasm compelled me to find strength within myself that I have never felt before. His intuitive direction and knowledge of the body brought out my confidence that I fully trusted his guidance, and began to just trust and "let go" of my control of what was keeping me stuck. His patience is felt throughout class, but his honesty gives you an edge to create a place of openness. On my first session, I felt my pelvis release tension that I haven't felt since I had my twins 10 years ago. I felt my lower back become unlocked. It was enough to have enough faith after the first time, to cancel a surgery to correct my pain and try a natural approach. My second experience was even more powerful. I kind of knew what to expect and I set my intention for the class to give it my all and not waist either of our time. He focused on my rotation of scoliosis and focused a lot of heart opening positions. I felt open and free! I have experienced in my own practice a sense of security in myself and I now have more self awareness that I didn't have before I worked with Ricky and for that it is priceless! Melissa N. Massage Therapist In just a few sessions you have brought me to a new level - a new awareness. I really appreciate your positive, yet grounded approach and the language and tone you use to get me focused. One element of yoga that has been particularly significant to me is the fact that it is never over. You never arrive; it's ever evolving. With each pose, you helped me feel confident about where I was while showing me what lies ahead by drawing attention to the details of each pose. I feel like my yoga journey is just beginning, but I have already come so far. It's a pleasure practicing with you! Jenny Parum Dallas, TX Ricky, I loved the class today. I really enjoyed your teaching style - calm, peaceful, open, direct. I have done upward and downward dog in hundreds of yoga classes before, but never with the intention and position that we achieved today. I know that my body moved in a new way, and for that I am grateful. Looking forward to more classes with you! Natalie T Personal Trainer Dallas, TX What I feel really sets your class apart from others I have taken… 1. The combination of yoga “fundamentals”, Ashtanga Flow, and Iyengar styles melt together to become a personal challenge and yoga journey. You have an attention to the finest details and I felt encouraged to try something new, go somewhere different in each posture. I never felt rushed to move from one posture to another. 2. You explain postures in a distinctive way that I have not thought of or heard of before. For example, Warrior I, I liked putting all the weight in the back foot first, then bending the front leg. I always wondered how to distribute the weight evenly from front to back. Or even a posture as basic as downward dog…trying to make subtle changes (lifting my toes, or keeping the pressure between my thumb and first finger). 3. I enjoyed the flow of the class. The warm up of the spine, then moving on to the body, then some ashtanga flow, then working deeper into some of the postures…good stuff. Honestly, it is very uncomfortable for me to start in forward fold in [another teacher's] class because my hamstrings are so tight! I like to warm up more gradually. I also felt you provided different levels for some postures so I could try something more advanced or at least see where I’m headed. 4. The dialogue is interesting. You incorporate a lot of different aspects to make it interesting (i.e. the history of yoga, what you have learned from your teachers, anecdotes, personal experience, meditations, phrases to ponder, etc…) Still thinking about the whole “the observer becomes the observed”…haven’t quite figured out that one yet. I wish you used more of the Sanskrit terms for the postures. For some reason I like hearing them…I don’t know why. 5. Adjustments. Maybe because the class was a semi-private session, the adjustments were great and I felt you were sensitive to each student. I think a hands-on teacher is great. 6. Overall your energy, dedication, and passion and radiates in your class making it both fun and unique! I left feeling inspired by you and by myself…" Deborah L. Dallas, TX "Great workshop, Ricky! Always inspiring. Always fresh. Jenny Parum Dallas, TX New tricks are sooo much fun :P Thanks Ricky.Angela Brister Dallas, TX Ricky added a mental element that I had not taken the time to develop. In a few classes, I found proper alignment in many poses that I thought I was doing correctly. I learned how to breathe – beyond inhale and exhale. He used a dialog that helped me focus on practicing without judgment (of myself or others) and without expectations (of myself or others.) Each time I step on a mat, I have an opportunity to set an intention for my practice…and for the rest of the day. Stephanie Smothers Thompson Dallas, TX Ricky has a beautiful practice! It was amazing to see him move in various ways and jump to and fro as light as a feather! His positive energy and and fun spirit made for a lovely aura in the yoga studio. I learned some new techniques for proper headstands, as well as tapping into the core which is essential for arm balancing. The time was too short though, we still needed to learn more! :) Thanks Ricky! Jaclyn Yoga Teacher at Yoga Loft Manhattan Beach, CA | visit us on yelp.com |
