More yoga behind bars, and the Sterns heading to Greenwich
UPDATED BELOW.
We’ve posted a few items about Robbie Norris, who teaches yoga to inmates at the Richmond City Jail. Our last piece is right here.
Now Eddie Stern — who has worked with Robbie and first introduced us to him — has posted a video about Robbie’s work. Here’s a wonderfully succinct description, by Eddie, of Robbie: “His adherence to teaching the primary series in an effort to instill discipline and self-reliance in the men is extremely admirable – and so is his conviction.”
Here’s the video, to pass the word along :
Speaking of Eddie, I saw on the Facebook that he and his wife, Jocelyne, will be teaching at the new Jois Yoga in Greenwich, Ct. in October. Here’s info for those close enough; admittedly, there isn’t a lot let beyond the dates — Oct. 6-8 — but of note is that nine people already are committed to going. Not sure what the limit might be, but why risk finding out?
UPDATE:
After I posted this, I checked over at Robbie’s blog and I think he posted a new piece right about when we did. Since he mentions us, I figure I should note it so you don’t think I’m hiding something.
And, actually, his post is a bit shocking — both on purpose as a humorous gesture and really — so I’d encourage you to read it. It provides another worthwhile take on the NY Times reporter’s yoga injury book. Robbie’s whole approach, as Eddie describes it above, is truly a “reality check” for those of us lucky enough to be able to practice yoga and Ashtanga in supportive, clean, eco-friendly environments.
Here’s just one bit to jump-start your interest:
At least, Bryan Shull actually was practicing yoga at the moment he was injured, in June 2011 at Indian Creek Correctional Center — by another inmate who came up behind Bryan while he was in Virabhadrasana, and swung a lock wrapped inside a washcloth against Bryan’s face, breaking his nose. Bryan is fine now. He was put in solitary confinement for protection, and subsequently moved to a different facility — Haynesville Correctional Center — where he has continued to practice without a yoga mat since last July.
Robbie goes on to provide a classic example of the frustrations of bureaucracy. If you can stomach it, read it.
Posted by Steve
