Ed Dailey has been a nurse for more than 20 years, and has been instrumental in introducing yoga and integrative therapy in hospitals and health centers in the United States. Ed, who will be in Singapore this September, shares his connection and love for yoga with YJSG.
Source: Yoga Journal Singapore
Why do you do yoga?
I first started yoga over 20 years ago because I suffered from back pain. The physicians that were treating me just wanted to give me medications. Not wanting to go down that road, I turned to yoga for help. At first I was just interested in the physical benefits of the practice. Over time I became more enticed by the observation of the movements of my body and how it returned me to the present moment again and again. Yoga gives me a chance to observe over and over. No past, no future, just the present. In today’s fast paced world that can be hectic, it is the chance to move inward.
What or who inspired you to teach?
I first walked into Rodney Yee’s class room in 2000. After I left that first class, I knew who I would study with. I began an ongoing mentorship with Rodney that continues to this day. I have spent thousands of hours in study with him, assisting him, and being of service to him and his wife Colleen. He taught me the art of sequencing, listening, emptying myself, and skillful action. He connected me to the teacher within myself that yearned to share yoga with others. We have discussions on yoga philosophy and life.
What is the best thing you enjoy about teaching yoga?
I enjoy helping people of all abilities see the accessibility of yoga. Skill is required from the teacher to teach students of all levels who may be in the same room. At the start of every class, I sit and watch each person who comes through the door. Then I decide what should be taught. It’s a great feeling to “turn the light switch on” for people and dispel the misperception of what yoga is. I also love teaching pranayama. This forgotten limb of yoga is a must for all yogis but often overlooked.
What is your main focus and philosophy when you teach?
I go through phases on what I teach. My observation of the world is that we try and do so many things, and as a result, our lives lack integration and integrity. “Do less with more integrity”—this is what I am constantly reminding students. Mother Theresa once said “Don’t do large deeds with no love but do small deeds with a lot of love.” So much can be accomplished in 15 minutes a day. Let’s all start there. I tell my students to do everything with compassion and kindness. This includes how you treat yourself daily. There is so much division and hostility in the world at times. Your self-care practice—which may include yoga, meditation, good nutrition or using essential oils—are all part of this routine, and shine the light of compassion and kindness onto ourselves.
If you were given a chance to teach anywhere in the world, where would you choose, and why?
The Great Pyramid in Egypt. This part of the world is on my bucket list as I have been fascinated with the culture since 6th grade. I have heard so many wonderful things about this sacred place and would love to see how the Kings chamber would enhance the yoga practice.
What is your daily yoga routine?
I start my day with pranayama and meditation. The pranayama practice varies depending on what’s going on with me that day. I practice some days in the morning or evening. I gear my asana practice to address what is required within my body and mind, so that changes too daily. I end my evening with a short meditation.
This article was first published in the print edition of Yoga Journal Singapore, which is now Yogahood Online.
