Category: Adaptive Yoga

Upgrading My Computer to Windows 11 Using FlyBy11 + Post-Upgrade AV Testing

🖥️ Upgrading My Computer to Windows 11 Using FlyBy11 + Post-Upgrade AV Testing

After years of running smoothly on Windows 10, I decided it was time to upgrade to Windows 11—even though my PC wasn’t on Microsoft’s supported hardware list. Thanks to the FlyBy11 method, I was able to complete the upgrade without a hitch. Here’s a quick overview of my upgrade experience and how I verified my audio and video systems afterward.

✅ Step-by-Step: How I Upgraded Using FlyBy11

I followed the instructions in a video guide that walked through upgrading unsupported PCs to Windows 11 using the FlyBy11 script. This method bypasses Microsoft’s hardware checks in a safe and controlled way.

Here’s a quick summary of the process:

  1. Backed up important files.
    Always a must before any major upgrade.
  2. Downloaded the FlyBy11 script from GitHub.
    (It automates bypassing the TPM, Secure Boot, and CPU checks.)
  3. Ran the script and initiated the upgrade.
    I used a Windows 11 ISO downloaded directly from Microsoft.
  4. The install process was smooth—no hiccups or compatibility warnings.
  5. After reboot, I had a fresh Windows 11 desktop with all my apps and settings intact.

🔊🎥 Post-Upgrade Testing: Audio & Video

After the upgrade, I made it a priority to test everything related to my workflow—especially audio and video, since I use my computer to teach yoga and chair tai chi both online and in person.

Here’s what I tested and verified:

🎤 Audio Tests

  • ✅ Microphone detection in Zoom, OBS, and Audacity
  • ✅ No latency issues or audio dropouts
  • ✅ Speakers and Bluetooth earbuds connected without trouble

🎥 Video Tests

  • ✅ Webcam recognized in Zoom, OBS, and Camera app
  • ✅ Background blur and virtual backgrounds worked smoothly
  • ✅ OBS Studio scene switching and virtual cam all functioned as before

All audio/video settings and customizations I had on Windows 10 carried over without needing reconfiguration. I did though have an HP printer notification pop up during a recording LIVE on YouTube, so I’ll need to check into suppressing notifications.

Here’s one of the “Live” videos I did to test both the audio and video after the upgrade!

🧘‍♀️ Why This Matters for My Work

I teach Chair Yoga, Tai Chi, and Guided Meditation virtually, so reliable audio/video is crucial. The upgrade allowed me to enjoy the sleeker interface of Windows 11 and improved multi-window features, without sacrificing stability in my teaching platforms.

If you’re a fellow wellness educator, you’ll appreciate the importance of:

  • Smooth streaming (no lag)
  • Clear voice capture for cues and instruction
  • Visual clarity for demonstrations

So far, Windows 11 is delivering.

📌 Final Thoughts

If you’re still running Windows 10 on an older machine and wondering whether an upgrade is possible, FlyBy11 is a viable solution—just be sure to back up and follow each step carefully.

💡Pro Tip: After upgrading, take the time to recheck every tool you rely on—especially audio and video apps—to ensure everything transitioned properly.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried this method, or if you’re considering upgrading and have questions!

Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention with Gail P-B.

Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention with Gail P-B.

Teaching a new time slot and a new style of class. Starts on Friday, January 17, 2025. Will reside on the online studio platform for Veterans Yoga Project. Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention.

Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention. Fridays at 1 PM CDT on Veterans Yoga Project Online Studio.

Recently Veterans Affairs, announced its partnership with Veterans Yoga Project to have VYP provide yoga, meditation, Yoga Nidra Meditation practices. The full story can be found here.

Here’s a little snippet from the article.

VA offers free online and in-person yoga classes and mindfulness training to Veterans across the nation. VA hosts these classes through a partnership with Veterans Yoga Project, Inc., which is maintained by the National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships (HAP).

The classes provide a no-cost opportunity to Veterans seeking to improve their mental, physical and emotional health through yoga and mindfulness practices.

VA and Veterans Yoga Project are working together to make more Veterans aware of the benefits of yoga while offering more classes. This partnership also provides local VA medical centers with opportunities to connect with Veterans Yoga Project instructors to provide yoga classes and mindful resilience training to Veterans, either in-person or virtually through VA-approved telehealth platforms.

“Through this partnership with Veterans Yoga Project, we are addressing top VA priorities, expanding Veteran access to care and enhancing the overall health of Veterans,” said Kimberly Pugh, health system specialist within VHA National Center for Healthcare Advancement & Partnerships. “Including yoga and mindfulness into their health care routine provides Veterans with additional tools to manage stress, improve physical health and build resilience.”

72% of Veterans saw a reduction in pain

The Veterans Yoga Project is a nonprofit organization that helps Veterans, their families and communities recover and build resilience through yoga and mindfulness training. In 2023, Veterans Yoga Project reported that 75% of Veterans who took part in their programs felt less distress and 72% saw a reduction in pain.

The partnership between VA and Veterans Yoga Project focuses on several key goals:

  • Teaching Veterans about the benefits of yoga and mindfulness for their mental, physical and emotional health.
  • Making access to yoga classes and mindful resilience training easier for Veterans.
  • Encouraging local partnerships between VA medical centers and Veterans Yoga Project instructors.
  • Offering free yoga and meditation classes to Veterans in their communities.

Classes reduce pain and stress

“Veterans Yoga Project is proud to partner with VA and deliver yoga and mindful resilience practices as a primary service to America’s Veterans,” said Brianna Renner, CEO of Veterans Yoga Project. “As an integral part of VA’s Whole Health initiative, together we have the ability to empower more Veterans to live, thrive and actively belong. With a robust teacher network and over a hundred free yoga classes weekly, we are dedicated to growing the impact of our classes to reduce pain and stress and support as many Veterans as possible.”

This partnership shows VA’s commitment to changing the way health care is delivered to Veterans, focusing on personalized, whole-person care. Yoga is part of VA Whole Health System of Care, which gives Veterans supportive health options.

I teach the Gentle Yoga for Back Care, and alternate that time slot with Chair Tai Chi. Both have been popular with some of the older Veterans.

Now we are hosting a new class, Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention. It is Fridays at 1 PM CDT (think Texas time). Some gear is needed for this class. Two Chairs, a Yoga Strap, a Yoga Block. Optional, if you have a yoga strap with a buckle, or a TheraBand (stretchy strap).

Here’s the registration link, then you “Book” the class! https://veteransyogaproject.org/vyp-classes/

Here’s the online description of the class.

Class Description

Discover the benefits of yoga without the need to get down on the floor in our Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention class. This gentle and accessible yoga practice is designed to improve balance, flexibility, and strength while keeping you comfortably seated or standing with support.

Our chair yoga practice includes:

Seated Balance Poses: Enhance stability and coordination through modified yoga poses performed while seated.

Gentle Stretching: Increase flexibility and joint mobility with easy-to-follow stretches that reduce stiffness and improve range of motion.

Strength Exercises: Build muscle strength in the core, legs, and upper body to support daily activities and reduce the risk of falls.

Mindful Movements: Boost body awareness and confidence with slow, deliberate movements and guided breathing techniques, all performed with the aid of a chair for safety and comfort.

Perfect for seniors, those with limited mobility, or anyone seeking a low-impact exercise routine. Our skilled instructors will guide you through each pose, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Embrace a healthier, more stable lifestyle with Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention!

Chair Yoga for Fall Prevention. Beginners yoga class to strengthen the body, and build better balance. With teacher, Gail Pickens-Barger

Beginners Yoga Schedule for Gail Pickens-Barger, Beaumont, Nederland, Port Neches & Online in Texas

Teaching Schedule for 2024

Gail’s Yoga Teaching Schedule for 2024

In-Person Yoga/Chair Tai Chi Classes

Wednesdays – Seated Chair Tai Chi at 11:00 AM – 45 Minute Class At Lakeside Center, Beaumont Texas
Fridays – Beginners Yoga at 10:30 AM – 60 minute Class – may be done on the yoga mat, or seated on the chair. At Lakeside Center, Beaumont Texas

45-60 Minute Yoga Classes for Beginners and Those with Back Challenges

Yoga classes spanning 45 to 60 minutes are particularly beneficial for beginners as well as individuals dealing with back challenges and chronic pain. The duration provides ample time for gentle warm-up exercises, foundational yoga poses, and a rejuvenating relaxation period. This allows participants to gradually build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness while also catering to the specific needs of those with back issues and chronic pain.

Testimonial for Yoga for Low Back Pain Class

One of the Veterans participating in the Veteran’s Yoga Project shared the following feedback about the class:

“I am grateful for the opportunity to attend the Yoga for Low Back Pain class led by Gail Pickens-Barger. The sessions have been instrumental in alleviating my discomfort and improving my overall well-being. I highly recommend this class to fellow Veterans struggling with similar issues.”

This testimonial highlights the positive impact of the class on the participant’s physical and mental health, showcasing the value of the Yoga for Low Back Pain program.

Maria, shares her testimony on the gentle yoga for low back care class.
The Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care class that I teach for the Veterans Yoga Project, helps to lower the pain levels of back pain.
Joseph P shares about his pain levels in taking back care yoga class with me online on VYP.
Michelle W shares about the Chair Yoga class that I taught online for Veterans Yoga Project during Gratitude Week 2023.
Read my student testimonies from the classes that I teach online and in-person. Thank you. Yoga with Gaileee

In-person classes at Lakeside Event Center in Beaumont Texas. Fridays at 10:30 AM

Gail talking.
“Hey Don, welcome back! Hope this helped you! Let me know!”
Don – Veteran
“Yes it always helps! I’m similar to you: chronic back pain for 20-30 years, and since I started doing yoga in Tucson and more recently on-line, my back is much better. Not completely gone, but a heck of a lot better!”

Doesn’t get much better than that!

Beginners Yoga Classes in Beaumont and Nederland, Texas with Gail Pickens-Barger
Now online through VYP-Classes Online weekly at 1:00 PM CST on Wednesdays.

Yoga Nidra Meditation for Sleep, Pain Relief, and Stress Reduction

Yoga Nidra is a powerful meditation practice that can help ease you into sleep, alleviate chronic pain, and reduce stress. By guiding your mind and body into a state of deep relaxation, Yoga Nidra can promote healing and rejuvenation. Whether you are seeking relief from physical discomfort or looking to unwind from the day’s stress, this ancient meditation technique can support your well-being.

Yoga Nidra for better sleep.
Yoga Nidra for better sleep.

Sample of Yoga for Back Relief Classes that I teach

What gear do I need for Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care Classes?
Yoga with Gail
Just some ideas of the gear one can buy, or find items in your home to use for Gentle Yoga for Low Back Care Class!

What people are saying about the online yoga classes with Gail!

Online and In-Person yoga Classes with Gail. Nederland Mid-County and Beaumont Texas
Online Classes with Gail Pickens-Barger.  Now Online in the Zoom Yoga Room with Gail



Why do Gentle Yoga for a Healthy Back Class.

One Last Thing… Be sure to wear either layer for your top or a form-fitting top.  We do a pose in our Beginners Yoga class called, Downward Facing Dog.  You basically look like an “Upside Down” Letter, “V”, and sometimes shirts will ride up your backside!  Whoops!  Here’s my young daughter demonstrating!

graceyoga_15a

PRIVATE YOGA LESSONS – One-on-One Lessons. 

These are to be held online.   In either Mid-County or Beaumont Texas. Please call 409-727-3177 for additional inquiries.

Yoga can help you:

  • Ease your back pain
  • Help to lose weight
  • Lessen one’s stress
  • Increase flexibility
  • Gain strength
  • Ease pregnancy challenges
  • Build bone mass
  • Better your balance

Questions? Comments? Complaints? Complements?

Contact Gail

Back Challenges – Easy Yoga for Back Relief

Overview of Back Care Yoga Class

Easy to do yoga movements, today’s class featuring postures for easing sciatica & kyphosis. Class will also promote healthy backs!
  • Gail teaches gentle yoga for back care, focusing on low back, upper back, mid-back and core.
  • Specific yoga postures are designed to ease back challenges and chronic daily pain.
  • Equipment needed: yoga strap and yoga block, although not mandatory for participation.
  • Recording of the class is provided for those who want to try with the gear later.
  • Class ends with guided rest, relaxation, and gratitude practice.

Adaptations for Different Needs

  • Participants can choose to stand, sit on a chair, or modify postures based on individual needs.
  • Constructive rest posture is recommended for reducing back challenges.
  • Seated Participants can also benefit from certain postures, with some adaptations required.
  • Various modifications are suggested to accommodate different levels of flexibility and comfort.
  • Participants are encouraged to listen to their bodies and adjust postures accordingly.

Yoga Postures for Back Care

Yoga postures for back care are specific poses designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the back, helping to improve posture, reduce pain, and increase flexibility. These poses target different areas of the back to promote overall spinal health and alleviate discomfort.

Constructive Rest Yoga Posture for Easing Back Pain.
Knee to Chest Sequence for Easing Back Pain. Yoga with Gail
Easing Back Pain with Overhead Extension Yoga Pose Sequence with Gail PB
Flowy Cat Cow Sequence Yoga Posture for easing back pain with teacher, Gail PB
Warrior Pose Variations for strength and lengthening of the lower body muscles. Yoga with Gail PB
Unsupported Spinal Twists and Bird Dog Spinal Balance Variations for easing back pain. Yoga Teacher Gail PB