Hearts Expanding

Sianna Sherman explains Open to Grace

2012-01-27T05:00:00.002-07:00

I saw this short video a couple days ago on Yoganonymous and felt I had to share it. Sianna Sherman is easily my favorite yoga teacher ever. Here she shares a little information on the first universal principle of alignment in Anusara Yoga: Open to Grace. Most people don't know what the hell floaty kind of thing "open to grace" means and I think this video sums it up pretty well.

I do have to say that the background color of this video makes me think of Sesame Street for some reason.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Hungry for Adventure

2012-01-26T05:00:00.001-07:00

Completely expresses how I've been feeling lately. Time to plan a trip.

Prop Spotlight - Blocks

2012-01-25T05:00:00.001-07:00

Lets talk a bit about props. I used to be completely anti props. I was a major purist. All I needed was myself and the ground. Nowadays I'm really into my props when I need them. I still don't use bolsters and stuff, but I use blocks and straps pretty regularly. If you don't have any of your own blocks I recommend you get some. I own 2 pairs - one foam and one cork, but one pair should be sufficient for anyone. Some people get cork or wood for home and foam for taking out in public. There are also wooden blocks, but I've never used them so I can't say anything about them one way or the other.

I find that foam blocks are great for balancing on, putting under my spine (less hard edges), doing things where I fear I might drop them on myself, etc. I like my cork blocks for pretty much everything else. They're more eco-friendly, solid, wear well, and easy on the eyes. They're considerably more expensive, but if you can swing it they're worth it. I got mine for christmas one year.

Something to keep in mind:
Using props doesn't always mean that you're doing the "modified" version of something. Even if it did that doesn't mean you don't need it sometimes. Let go of your ego and get some props. I like Yoga Accessories for that.

Just a few of the things you can do with blocks:

Place a block between your thighs to learn to draw your legs toward the midline.

Restorative bridge was the first pose to make me love blocks. Opens up the front hips.

Under shoulderblades a block helps open your chest. A M A Z I N G !
If you try this - roll to the side to come up. Not forward or you can hurt vertebrae.

Helps provide extra lift while you work on building more strength to hold yourself up.

Helps keep your poses from being soggy... and helps prevent pulled groins while still making you do the work.
I also suggest this method for pigeon pose.

Brings the ground to you so you can work on alignment more than depth.

Please don't try these poses without speaking to your Dr. first if you have any medical/physical problems (or if they're just beyond your capabilities - be honest). If you're unsure - seek a teacher's advice/supervision. Seek Peace At Your Own Risk!

Tiffany Cruikshank - Express YourSelf!

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm completely in love with this video. It exudes joy from all it's pixels. I think they captured the essence of play and sunshine in yoga. It came out a couple weeks ago, but I wanted to space out some of the video posts. Enjoy!

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Recycled Post - Inspiration Board

2012-01-23T05:00:00.001-07:00

I just re-did my Inspiration Board so I thought it was a good time for a recycled post!

Read last year's post about the process of setting up your own Inspiration Board - Here.

One-Moment Meditation

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

I found this awesome video recently and I even did the meditation presented in the video. I found it amusing that knowing it was a one-minute meditation I still found myself feeling like it was the longest minute ever. I've meditated for upwards of 45 minutes, yet this one minute was super-hard. How silly.

I felt great afterwards though.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Unboxing #NDL01 from Quarterly Co.

2012-01-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

In a flurry of small changes on the blog lately - you may have noticed the appearance of a link at the top of the page to Quarterly Co. You may wonder exactly what that is, but haven't checked it out yet.

"Quarterly Co. is a subscription service that lets you receive awesome things in the mail. You can subscribe to people you find interesting and, once every three months, they will send you a package right to your doorstep."

I signed up a while back, and yesterday I received my first package from Quarterly Contributor No More Dirty Looks

"No More Dirty Looks is a blog focusing on the best, prettiest, and most effective clean products on the market. With their mailings, founders Siobhan O'Connor and Alexandra Spunt hope to reawaken a tradition of self-care while also showing that clean, organic ingredients are all you need to look and feel your best."

I love NMDL - the blog and the book, so I was quick to sign up and thrilled to receive this box in the mail. I urge you to sign up for these mailings too. The surprise element is so fun, and the products are totally worth my $25 every 3 months. Alternatively, you could just follow the blog for free - and still get lots of clean beauty info and deals on great products.

I haven't tried any of these products before but I've been wanting all of them, so this collection is perfect for me and I'm happy. Bonus: Smells great! Can't wait for the next package ♥ I can't say enough good things about them, so I'll just get on with the unboxing pictures.

Inside was this small packet/letter of info about the products and the people that made them.
Leaving me well informed and extra excited about my new stuff.

Leap Organics lavender with clove and orange bar soap, Soapwalla
Kitchen deodorant cream, and Hydrea beechwood Body Brush.
Complete with use instructions.

Everything in quotes came straight from Quarterly Co.

You may recognize the NMDL book from the 2011 Yogi Gift Guide

This is not a sponsored post - I'm just excitable that way.

Trying Ashtanga

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

You all know I'm a big ol' Anusara junkie, but I tried something like 9 styles of yoga or more before I got all cozy with Anusara. There's plenty more styles around too so I'm making a conscious effort to branch out and try new styles in addition to my regular practice. Maybe I'll learn a few things.

I got this Kino Macgregor Ashtanga DVD for christmas and I've started following along with it once or twice a week. It's the primary series with beginner and advanced variations for most of the sequence. While I know that DVDs are far from being representative of the classroom experience - I have to say I was a little too scared to visit an Ashtanga class. Maybe later. Ashtanga is challenging. Not crazy difficult - just definite work. My hop forward to hover in handstand is getting stronger and my upward dog is getting more practice than ever. I'm enjoying it for sure.

Next stop - Bikram, Iyengar, and Aerial Yoga classes.
I'm especially psyched out of my mind about that last one.

Reminders on the Wall

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Just some inspirational wall-hangings I found while looking for home decor inspiration.

Source: gypsyville.com

90 Minute Asana Practice in 3 Minutes

2012-01-16T05:00:00.002-07:00

My Thursday and Friday were pretty well spent on making my first video ever. Made this on my phone. In the process I learned more about my phone, about how inept I am with video editing software, about how confusing copyright law is, and how much more nervous I am about sharing videos than pictures. I'm thinking I'll make more videos later, but for now I'll just let this one go out into the world and mature on its own.

So this video is a 90 minute practice that I did - and I then chopped it up into a million pieces and threw 95% of the pieces away. What's left is like a super speed highlight reel of that day's work. Hopefully you like it. If you do - share it around. If you hate it - show it around too. blech.

Asana Practice in 3 Minutes from April Armistead on Vimeo.

Some of you may have already seen this on Elephant Journal, Twitter, Reddit, Tumblr, or on plenty of other sites I don't quite follow. Thanks to everyone who's been posting it. ♥

Rest to Cultivate Growth

2012-01-13T05:00:00.001-07:00

As yogis we practice hopefully everyday. Except when we are resting. There should be some off-days scheduled in there somewhere. I took about a 2 month long rest in the fall. Some of it intentional, most of it not. Everyone has these little periods where we don't practice. Sometimes they're a couple days sometimes they're months long. During that time - I always worry that when I get back to the mat I'm going to be completely incapable. Not that it matters, but it's going to be uncomfortable. There's a little piece of me that whines when I'm in down dog for the first time after a week or more without it. That little piece whines about everything.

That's the inertia speaking. The longer something sits the harder it is to get it going again. This applies to anything. Objects, relationships, yoga practices, attitudes, good habits - Anything.

So when I came back to my practice I feared I had lost some strength because muscles are all about "use it or lose it". Turns out I lost a little but it was regained so quickly to be not worth mentioning. My build had grown only slightly softer.With that very mild softening though - came an ease in how I carry myself that's hard to describe.

Everything feels a little simpler and I have made a dozen breakthroughs. Both in physical and subtle practices. I guess our inner self and our outer practices can be like muscles. Muscles don't grow while you're lifting heavy things. Muscles grow later in the dark while they're being rested. Quietly sowing the seeds planted during the hard work.

So by all means - plant your seeds, do the work - but don't forget to provide the rest your system needs to really flourish.

Press to Handstand

2012-01-12T05:00:00.001-07:00

So with the whole Briohny Smyth underwear video there's been a lot of buzz about pressing to handstand. No matter where you stand on the Too Sexy or Not debate - you probably agree that her handstand press abilities are solid.

Now everyone wants to know how to add this fun little number to their practice. Here are a few videos to help you out. Featuring Kino Macgregor, Briohny Smyth, and Ranil Kumara with a few different methods to get you floating tall.

Word of warning: Kino admits it took her 5 years to get this down - so expect to put forth some dedication and time into learning it.

The sliding thing Briohny does with the blanket I've done quite a bit. I picked it up from a Sianna Sherman workshop. It's work and I can definitely say it's helpful.

A similar method for the gym is with a stability ball. You'll either love it or hate it.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Videos.

Oh, the Places You'll Go at Burning Man!

2012-01-11T05:00:00.001-07:00

If you love Dr. Seuss as I do (and especially if you love adventures and colors and happiness like Burning Man) then you'll likely love this video that's been floating about. A Burning Man vision of Dr. Seuss' Oh, the Places You'll Go!

And a quote that I think pairs well with it:
"If you do follow your bliss, you put yourself on a kind of track that has been there all the while waiting for you, and the life you ought to be living is the one you are living. When you can see that, you begin to meet people who are in the field of your bliss, and they open the doors to you. I say, follow your bliss and don't be afraid, and doors will open where you didn't know they were going to be. If you follow your bliss, doors will open for you that wouldn't have opened for anyone else." - Joseph Campbell

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video

Urdhva Dhanurasana Walkthrough

2012-01-10T05:00:00.001-07:00

The effects of hunching over at your desk, rounding forward in your car, and keeping your head down as you walk are all going to be countered by backbends. You may not even realize how crummy you feel until you practice some nice chest openers and truly feel better. Add this classic backbend to your practice - or start a practice just so you can work towards it.

Bonus: Heart openers increase your capacity to give and receive love. In practical application this could mean you're less likely to yell at the lady taking 30 minutes to buy stamps and more likely to graciously accept compliments and well-meant gifts.

I like to place Urdhva Dhanurasana (aka Upward Bow) towards the middle of my practice. If you have a shorter or less experienced practice then it may be more appropriate for you to place it near the end so you will be adequately warmed up. I'd suggest doing at least 3 urdhva dhanurasanas per practice. The third one always feels way better than the first one. Resist the urge to draw your knees to your chest in between each pose. Once you're done - lie and rest for a minute. Do a couple of light twists and/or some forward bends to neutralize the spine.

In pictures this looks like a lot, but it's actually a pretty fast process once you learn the steps.

Before you ever attempt Urdhva Dhanurasana solo:
You should be well-versed and comfortable in Bridge Pose. The link there is to my post on tips/instructions for bridge. If you're not comfy in bridge pose yet - just keep practicing that for now.

Let's Begin:
For some reason whenever I say "backbend" people think of dropbacks and get scared. How 'bout we do it the least scary way? Start from the floor.

Lie down. Feet about hip-width apart (for stability) near your butt. Very important - Feet parallel.
At first - reach your hands down at your sides - just touch the end of your heel.
Later you can bring the feet in a bit closer to start if you want to.

Place your hands out beside your ears - right about shoulder width apart. Wider apart is better than closer in.
Fingertips pointing the same direction as your toes. Fingers wide.

As your root into all 4 corners of your feet and hands - press up just enough to be on the top of your head.
Grip your fingers - spread your toes. Draw your shoulderblades further onto your back. Press your chest forward. This will roll your head a little more towards your forehead. Keep lifting in the hips.

On an exhale - press up to straight arms. Come up onto your toes and lengthen your tailbone down toward your knees.

Now walk your feet in closer toward your hands if you can. Press your chest forward .

Keep drawing your shoulders back to support your open heart. Lower your heels once you've walked in.
Strong arms - strong legs. Press your chest forward again. Look down at your hands. Breathe.

In general, this sequence is for anyone, but please don't try this without speaking to your Dr. first if you have any medical/physical problems. Seek Peace At Your Own Risk!

If you're reading this post there's a good chance you want to read these too:
Great Backbends in Unexpected Places
Backbend Work - In Pictures

Handy Yoga Timer

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

In the aftermath of all this holiday business - take a moment and maybe $2 to treat yourself for a change.

Yogis these days have all sorts of interesting things at our disposal. What's something we could really use though? Timers. Whether for timing meditation or timing each pose during a home practice. What's an easy way to know when you've been in a handstand at the wall for 2 minutes (or that you've had your students there that long)?

This Yoga Timer App by Simple Touch Software.

I've noticed my teachers using this app a lot in the past year. Maybe for you too - this could be perfect.

Screenshots from Apple

Yoga by Equinox with Briohny Smyth

2012-01-06T05:00:00.001-07:00

Came across this little videomercial yesterday. I think it's beautiful and Briohny shows a lot of control and skill. Very admirable practice. Check it out. ♥

Update: To learn to press to handstand like a boss - Click Here - for video tips from various sources including Briohny Smyth.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Benefits of Handstands

2012-01-05T05:00:00.001-07:00

Apparently yogis aren't just over-excited. Handstands really are good for you.

Fun Fact: Male pandas do handstands to attract the opposite sex via scent. By inverting, they can urinate higher on a tree trunk, which is how they dominate the competition and entice females.

Read more about the benefits of handstands HERE.

Open Flower

2012-01-04T05:00:00.000-07:00

Near your breastbone there is an open flower.

Drink the honey that is all around that flower. - Kabir

I'm working on becoming more active on my Twitter page, so follow along for lots of article sharing and quotes and whatnot. Not too active though - I'm resisting using twitter from my phone. I don't need to tweet everything I eat or something.

Shit Yogis Say

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

This vid is basically a lululemon commercial, but it's funny. Do you recognize yourself in any of these?

I know I saw myself in there somewhere. Right around 37 seconds for sure. I'm fully aware of it.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

New Year - Fresh Intentions

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

I don't really do New Year's Resolutions. When the new year comes I might have some intentions for my year, or some hopes, but I don't resolve things.

New dress. New socks. New Hair.

This year I hope to be more open to those around me and I intend to create new friendships. I hope to love and appreciate with all my heart, so that I may make the most of what little time I have on this planet as a human. I intend to live with freedom, expression, and a wild inner light to better uplift those around me simply by proximity. I intend to truly see the sun, the moon, the flowers, and the inner goodness of those I meet. I hope to hug more, receive more, and do more.

What are your hopes and intentions for the New Year?

Fit Girls Let Your Hair Down

2011-12-30T05:00:00.001-07:00

The ponytail is synonymous with fitness. Fit girls pull their hair back constantly. Especially those athletes that dedicate their entire day to active pursuits. Maybe one of your new year's resolutions should be to wear your hair down more often.

Source: http://kristineforpresident.com/2010/02/15/tight-ponytails/

Have you ever heard of Traction Alopecia?
"Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss caused by the sustained tension of hair. In general, this affects the hair follicles, and eventually damages them to a point where they can no longer grow hair. The result is gradual hair loss, and if serious enough, can eventually proceed to rapid hair loss, or losing clumps of hair at a time."

If you wear a tight ponytail or braids of any kind this could happen to you. If caught early it is reversible, so pay attention to your scalp and your hair. They may be trying to tell you something. Are you at risk? Do you need to give your hair a break?

Know the Warning Signs:

Sore scalp from ponytail, braiding, dreadlocks, etc.
Bumps and redness along the hairline
Thinning or hair breakage around the hairline
Itchy scalp or dandruff
Scalp is scaly or oozing pus

If not caught in time - the hair follicles can be damaged to the point that it becomes permanent.

How to Avoid It:

Wear your hair down often
Wear loose braids, ponytails, etc.
Don't subject your hair to chemical treatments which weaken it
Massage your scalp to increase circulation
In short - be nice to your hair.

Sources:

Hairloss.com

eHow Style

RapidHairloss.net

When It's Cold Outside

2011-12-29T05:00:00.002-07:00

Just thought this pic was funny and needed to be shared.

Currently reading: Yoga Bitch

A Shift Not Unlike an Earthquake

2011-12-28T05:00:00.002-07:00

Lately I've noticed a shift in my practice. Everything about it has changed. The music I play, the lighting I want, the time of day - the atmosphere is totally different. I haven't practiced with a set sequence in months and when I do practice lately it's much more internal. I'm more present in my breath and even the way I place my hands has changed. If that makes sense.

There is much more internal and a lot less external happening. I'm still doing a lot of the same poses and I'm working just as hard, but the way I'm doing it has changed. I feel differently about it and there's a lot less dancing and singing. There's actually more flow and yet more awareness too. I'm assuming this is temporary, but I really like it. Of course I really enjoyed the dancing, singing, and planning too.

I'm enjoying fully inhabiting my body and that is still the same.

There's just a lot more silence and candles right now.

Christmas Recap

2011-12-27T05:00:00.002-07:00

Hope everyone had an amazing weekend full of love, cheer, and general merriment. I know I did. It was probably one of the best christmases I've had in a while. Kept things simple, made mexican food and cookies, and just kinda hung out watching movies with my sweet husband and dog. Yay!

We got tons of "things" for christmas, but here I post the yoga-related christmas stuffs:

You may notice that almost 100% of them were on my Yogi Gift Guides. I also got the Amelia dress as a christmas gift to myself, but I don't have any pictures of it yet.

Ashtanga DVD, Hand-Knit arm and leg warmers, 2 books, 3 CDs, GIVE scent, and W3LL People sticks.

I'm really psyched about these. The GIVE scent is intoxicating. I want to smell it all day.

Devvy's favorite gift: a new kong with peanut butter.

I redecorated at some point while Adam watched a boring movie.
The card banner really seemed to complete things.

Christmas Eve Eve in My House

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

"Welcome Christmas, bring your cheer. Cheer to all whos far and near.

Christmas day is in our grasp so long as we have hands to clasp.

Christmas day will always be. Just as long as we have we.

Welcome Christmas while we stand. Heart to heart and hand in hand."

- Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas

I'm taking a long weekend - shall return the 27th!

I made the tiny packages out of cereal box and tissue paper

My newest addition: Christmas Llamas ♥

Yoga In New York Project - (Video)

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

You may have already seen this video making the rounds recently, but I wanted to fit it in here somewhere. I had seen the photos on Flickr, but I was psyched to watch this lovely video of the experience. If the holidays have your yoga practice falling behind - maybe this video will inspire you to do a few poses or just meditate in a moment of quiet.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video

By the way - Happy Winter Solstice ♥
Here's some wintery pics from around here.

Perhaps a Singing Bird Will Come

2011-12-21T05:00:00.001-07:00

A recycled post that goes well with today's pictures:

An Offering to the Animals

Ya know, in case a singing bird does show up.

Source: http://poppytalk.blogspot.com/2009/06/antiqued-wooden-signs.html

Except for the awesome sign - all these pics are mine.

Winter Party and a PSA

2011-12-20T05:00:00.003-07:00

I went to Adam's company Winter Party on Friday, so I wanted to share some pics from the occasion. I never go anywhere - it's kinda noteworthy. I think the last time I wore heels I was getting married, and that was back in 2002. Nonetheless - someone even asked me how to walk in heels, so I must fake it okay.

Here's my yogic PSA for the day - Ladies please stop wearing heels all the time. They're horrible for your feet - and therefore bad for your knees, hips, and spine.

Adam at our table, food by the snowflakes, bar by the big white things.

Disco ball and a video.

Theme was "A Night in Vegas" - most of these people are gambling with play money.

The band played funk, wore giant wigs, and dressed super 70's. Fun!

Believe it or not - all that stuff came inside that stocking.

Wrapping Gifts as Seva - (Videos)

2011-12-19T05:00:00.001-07:00

Only 6 days 'til christmas, so if you haven't wrapped your gifts yet it most certainly is an imminent crisis. Please enjoy this quick video on the basics of How To Wrap A Gift complete with a ribbon bow.

How To Wrap A Gift. from Danyelle Mathews on Vimeo.

Now that you know how to wrap gifts like a pro...

consider this act of RandomGood for your seva (selfless service): a free gift wrapping station.

Gift Wrap #RandomGood from Barkley Good on Vimeo.

Reusable papers, ribbons, yarn, embroidery thread, cloths, bags and boxes make my christmases less difficult every year. I even reuse bubble mailers when possible and practical.

Here's a few of our gifts from this year:

Christmas in My Neighborhood - Trees

2011-12-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight I'm going to Adam's company Christmas Party.

I intend to sparkle as much as the lights on all these trees.

Inner body bright!

Not a Tree, but come on it's a TRAIN!

Santa's Christmas Routine - eBook for Kids

2011-12-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I received this little gem in my email and I thought this just needed to be shared. Santa's Christmas Routine is a christmas e-book for kids brought to you by Sanga Yoga It is written and illustrated by Romi Walker. Such a cute story, and it teaches Santa (and the reader) the sun salutation.

For coordinating christmas card printables - Go Here.

Click Here to Read Santa's Christmas Routine

Dashama's Hugging Challenge - (Video)

2011-12-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

In light of the holiday season I want to remind you today that being generous doesn't have to cost money. Giving of your heart can be totally free - Give a Hug. Hell, give out a whole bunch of hugs. I know that some of you are "huggers" and some of you are not. I'm not one - like at all. However, I still give a full-hearted hug to anyone that is offering.

Check out this video of Dashama giving out free hugs to start off her Daily Hug Challenge. It makes me want to start a conscious practice of hugging people. Not for the challenge, just for doing. It's probably way healthier than being hug-averse.

The Challenge is to hug someone (anyone) every day for two weeks.

It doesn't have to be strangers, but that is certainly a good way to spread the love. The challenge began this week, and you can win a Spa & Wellness Gift Card for taking part.

For more information, including 5 Reasons Hugging is Healthy, visit the Spa Week Blog.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Gifts That Won't Break - (Video)

2011-12-13T05:00:00.002-07:00

I wanted to share this short video from Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong and his wife Adrienne on gifts that won't break. The charitable kind that "will actually put the world back together again". It's a fun video instead of your standard PSA so give it a watch.

Being philanthropic for the holidays doesn't have to empty your bank account. I found gifts for as little as $10 at NRDCgreengifts.org, so start doing good with your gifting without adding more "shit that breaks" to the world.

Instead you could help save the last 340 beluga whales, save endangered grizzlies, fight against BPA in children's products, or support many more worthwhile causes.

Get More: Music News

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video

Calendar Time

2011-12-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. 2011 is drawing to a close and I need a new calendar. Does everyone keep a calendar? I'm wondering if calendars are a massive waste of energy, money, and paper; but with all the things I write on mine I can't imagine what I'd do without one.

For quite a few years now I've been buying this one from YJ, but I've been feeling antsy. I like it because it's huge and pretty. However, the pictures are starting to feel stale and oft-repeated. I need something else.

Source: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ashtanga4life

I'm really considering this one from the Ashtanga4Life Etsy shop. It's smaller than I'm used to which poses some challenges for me. It's so pretty and the images would be new to me. Yoga Sutra text over each month would be awesome... and I'm intrigued by the lack of binding. This seems like it just invites creativity and original thinking. I feel like a big frame (for one page at a time) and dry erase markers might be my answer.

What do you guys usually do? Does anyone go calendar-free? Certainly lots of people do.

Toss me some ideas.

Christmas in My Neighborhood - Doors

2011-12-09T00:19:00.000-07:00

I've started spending my nights walking around my neighborhood snapping pics of the christmas decor.
I feel kinda stalker-ish but that won't stop me.

AND one of my favorite blogs Oh Happy Day recently posted:
10 Things to Give
10 Experiences to Give

Do Good While Looking Good

2011-12-08T05:00:00.001-07:00

The time draws nigh for checking off the last of your gift list for the winter holidays. If you're still searching then this post is for you. @Yogaressa suggested today's yogi gift idea via twitter.

Unisex, beautiful, meaningful, and philanthropic... I think this gift has everything. Top it off with the fact that prices start at $25 (upper end closer to $17k) and The 46664 Bangle is the perfect gift.

Shown in Copper $25

From The Bangle website:
"Hand-made in South Africa of the highest quality silver, gold,or platinum, with a copper inlay. Also available in pure copper.

The bangle program makes a positive impact through job creation and skills training, while also promoting a message of social responsibility.

Each bangle bears a digital imprint of Nelson Mandela’s hand, and his symbolic prison number, 46664."

Learn more and purchase The 46664 Bangle Here.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Blessed to Serve - Book Review

2011-12-07T05:00:00.002-07:00

It seems a little odd to me that I'm posting this review after having already listed this book in my gift guide. However, I felt from my first glance that it was worth suggesting. My intuition was consistently proven correct throughout my reading of Blessed to Serve.

Karen Lo compiled this fantastic set of interviews with nine "torch-bearers of modern yoga" in an approachable pieces kind of way. I found that if I only had 5 minutes to read I could still find a good stopping point somewhere instead of being lost every time I returned to the book. It's mostly a fixed set of questions but flows organically like the conversation that it is... and like a good vinyasa class. Taking in the words of this book is like getting to pick the brains of some of the best teachers in the US. I especially enjoyed hearing little details and personal stories about where they came from and how they felt at meaningful crossroads in their careers.

Teachers featured in Blessed to Serve:
Duncan Wong, Sianna Sherman, Jason Crandell, Rusty Wells, Stephanie Snyder, Darren Main, Kathryn Budig, Geoffrey Roniger, and Jason Nemer.

Let's declare this book required reading for aspiring teachers.
It's lighthearted while covering deeply important questions such as when you're ready to teach, how to handle the first hard year, teacher-student relationships, and even humility. Steeping in some of the wisdom contained in this book, I think, will make stronger happier teachers.

I don't want to say this book is just for yoga teachers - far from it. Any yogi would be served by the knowledge collected here. Whether to understand their teachers better, or to inspire their own path in the practice.

Source: http://www.elephantjournal.com/2011/01/karen-lo-january-yoga-instructor-feature/

This is not a sponsored post. I was not paid or even asked to review this book.

Star Wars Yoga - Interview with Artist Rob Osborne

2011-12-06T05:00:00.002-07:00

If you haven't heard of Rob Osborne you're missing out. If you haven't seen his new-ish Etsy store then you are absolutely unfortunate. Let me help you.

Meet Rob Osborne -
"I'm an artist, a writer, a creative thinker, a runner, a husband, a father, and everything else. I draw cartoons, design things, make things go." - via his blog profile

Whether you know who he is or not - you've probably seen his work around the internet. People like it, so it gets flashed about a fair amount. I came to know of Rob through his Star Wars Yoga series, so I'm showcasing that work today. Visit his Etsy Shop to purchase signed prints for as little as $19 each. Non-yoga work also available.

She must do hot yoga...

"...But I had a burning desire, so I did the only thing I knew to do. I got busy making comics."

- Rob Osborne

I thought these prints were so interesting that I strong-armed Mr. Osborne into doing a short interview. Yay!

So star wars characters doing yoga - what inspired this series?
I found the notion to mash up these two wildly different concepts, Star Wars and yoga, to be completely absurd and funny. The longer I pondered the concept, the more excited I got.

The Star Wars yoga series started with Boba Yoga. Even the phrase "Boba Yoga" was amusing to me. So it had to happen. When I did my first art print show, people went bananas for the Boba Yoga print. From there, the series took off.

Do you practice yoga? If so, what are your most and least favorite poses?
I started practicing yoga a few years ago. Went to my first class, and have been hooked ever since.
Least favorite pose: Chair. I've spent an inordinate amount of time in chair pose. I don't like it. I don't crave it. I don't want to "move with it". Yet I persist in deepening the pose and experiencing searing pain in my thighs. One of these days, I may just pull up a chair and sit down.
Favorite pose: Crow. The first time I tried it, the pose was impossible for me to do. With a little practice, I can now rock the crow pose. That feels pretty awesome.

What does Rob Osborne, graphic design super-genius, want for christmas?
A new family truckster to haul all of us, dogs included, across country for the holidays! Oh, and whirled peas, of course.

This is not a sponsored post. I was not paid or even asked to talk about this art.

The 3R's for Christmas Cards

2011-12-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

This year I ordered some adorable new christmas cards, but when I opened up my christmas box I noticed I have all these cards that people sent me last year (and some from further back than that). I don't want to just throw them out, so one morning I sat down with my cards and some scissors. Long story short - my new cards will have to wait until next year and I'll never need to buy another gift tag.

Before I go into the details let me add that I'm not a cheapo. I just try to make sure I spend my money on what's most important... and with a few exceptions - the christmas card is not it. Plus, I like to be as "green" as possible because I hug trees. Cards are nice to receive, but I'm sure the trees don't appreciate having died for something that some people open over the trash can, read, and immediately throw away.

Little bags full of gift tags I made last week.

The 3Rs for christmas cards:

Reduce who you send cards to.

Let's face it, some people you only exchange cards with because neither of you has stopped reciprocating out of obligation. This year my policy is that I'm only sending cards to people that I'm not sending a gift to. That ended up being like five people.

To further reduce waste you could send christmas postcards (they exist) which use maybe 1/4 of the paper of traditional cards in envelopes. Bonus: standard sized postcards are cheaper to mail.

If you want to go all out on this plan - you can just send E-Cards and spend no money and create no waste.

Reuse old cards.

Even if you make the switch to E-Cards, you're bound to have other people send a card for you to deal with. Luckily there are tons of ideas for reusing cards. You can make them into decor, gift tags, bookmarks, coasters, and more.

The front of your card can even be cut off and made into a new card or postcard. It's what I did this year that saved my new cards for another year.

Recycle the leftovers.

You may even be able to compost your cards - depending on what they're made of.

* * * * * * * * *

If you're all for it, but don't want to do the work yourself - send your cards to a card recycling program or a crafty friend.

Yogi Gift Guide 2011 - Part 3

2011-12-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'll be doing the very last of my christmas shopping today, so it's fitting that this is the final segment of this year's Yogi Gift Guide. If I somehow missed your must-have item let me know by email or leave a comment. May you find what you seek and your line move quickly.

Source: http://kinoyoga.com/

Teachers:
Teachers are people too. They touch our lives in endless ways. Maybe you want to show some gift gratitude towards a cherished teacher, or you know and love someone that happens to teach.

Moo Business Card Holder $10 - Colorful acrylic holders will allow teachers to keep a handful of business cards on hand at all times without having them destroyed by the roughness of being carried unprotected in bags, pockets, cars, etc.

Ty Burhoe's Invocation CD $15+ - This album is primarily based around different sung versions of the Anusara Invocation. I like it for teaching classes or a home practice.

Prana Zumi Scarf $40 - Hand knit, cozy, colorful, and affordable. Perfect to keep warm on the way to class.

Darren Rhodes' Yoga Resource Book $45 - Any teacher will find inspiration among these pages featuring 400 color photos of expertly executed poses with sanskrit and english names.

Blessed to Serve $14 - Stories, advice, and inspiration from nine celebrated yoga teachers - including my personal favorite, Sianna Sherman. At only 140 pages it's a quick read for any quiet afternoon. A portion of the proceeds donated to Give Back Yoga Foundation.

Source: http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/zenguin-cups-set-of-4

Homebodies:

I learned this year that my last name "Armistead" literally means something about having a hermit for a neighbor. Maybe my neighbors need this name because I am most comfortable at home. Sound like anyone you know?

Zenguin Cups (Set of 4) $35 - This set of 8 oz ceramic cups features the most equanimous penguin you could ever think to share a drink with.

Anusara Yoga Practice DVDs (Set of 2) $35 - Two DVDs of 1-hour classes taught by John Friend, founder of Anusara Yoga. "Connecting with Your Essence" and "Celebrating Your Heart" would be lively gifts for any home practioner.

Wade Imre Morissette Music $10 - These kirtan songs are available to purchase on iTunes for 99cents each, or you can get an entire album there for $10.

Ana Forrest's Fierce Medicine $10+ - Ana's new book features "Breakthrough Practices to Heal the Body and Ignite the Spirit." Born from her life experiences, this book shares her knowledge of overcoming fear, embracing change, and much more. I can't wait to get this book.

Om Girl Nomad Pants $74 - These 100% cotton pants have wide flowing legs and an attached skirt. Perfect for hanging out at home drinking tea with friends.

Source: http://givescent.com/store

Free Spirits:

For all your loveable Bohemian friends - like the wild child and the Gypsy.

Round Embroidered Floor Cushions $50 each - These cushions from World Market are exotic, comfortable, and available in various colors. I own them and think they are phenomenal.

Energy Muse Flow Necklace $50+ - Increases freedom, openness, and ease. The free spirit already has these qualities - help make sure she keeps them. Available in 16.5" or 18" length.

GIVE scent $48 - This yogini-friendly scent was created by yoga teacher Elena Brower with Alexandra Lyon Perelman. Contains NO alcohol, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or formaldehyde. Notes of grapefruit, oak moss, and vanilla (among others) are created with only the purest oils. Made and packaged in the USA and never tested on animals; a portion of the proceeds benefits Women for Women International.

Bronwin's Bhavana CD $15 - Bronwin's music is simply gorgeous and perfect for any boho chick who wants music for meditation, asana practice, or whatever.

We Love Colors Solid Leggings $26 - Leggings thick enough to be worn alone available in 51 colors that come in sizes from S to XXX-L. I wear these fun flashy leggings to add a little pop to any day.

Tantra Illuminated $30 - Preorder this book by Christopher Wallis to provide your freethinking friends with "key teachings, foundational lineages, and transformative practices at the heart of Tantra". Books estimated to Ship Dec. 19th.

Yogi Gift Guide 2011 - Part 2

2011-12-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's now officially December which means this is Day 2 of my three day gift guide for all the yogis you know. Believe it or not, when I first started the gift guide I had 0 gift ideas.

Source: http://www.bepresent.com/

Weekend Warriors/Beginners:
All yogis seem to start out as weekend warriors - we drop in every once in a while. We go to class when we have free time. We can only hope to keep beginner's mind forever - open and receptive.

Yoga Ball Body Therapy Kit with Rodney Yee $20 - Self massage with an instructional DVD. Help them take care of their sore muscles.

Be Love Pullover Sweatshirt $52 - Looks roomy enough to just throw on over a yoga tank on the way to class, and it can be worn any day of the week outside of the studio. Off the shoulder neckline and the yogi reminder to Be Love on the front.

Aim True Yoga DVD $8+ - This new practice DVD from Kathryn Budig looks fun and accessible for newbies.

Yoga Bitch $6+ - "One Woman's Quest to Conquer Skepticism, Cynicism, and Cigarettes on the Path to Enlightenment." Sounds like a fun book for those just dipping their toes into the yoga pond... or really anyone.

Manduka Mat Sling $38 - A sling to help someone carry their mat back and forth. The best quality mat slings I've seen anywhere. Adam has the thunder colored one, and I want the sangria version.

Source: http://www.giftofnothing.com/

Travelers:
Traveling yogis are a lucky lot. Whether they travel to teach, to study, or just have wanderlust.

Universalist Luminous Multi-Use Stick $1.50+ - The W3LL People eco-beauty line is "Hippie Tested. Diva Approved." It could have gone in the spoiled yogi section, but I put it here because who wants to pack three things when you can pack one? Full size is $33, but click on the color name and you get the option to buy samples for almost free.

Christina Sell's My Body is a Temple: Yoga as a Path to Wholeness $11+ - 'The body as a temple is a common metaphor within many spiritual traditions. In this book... delves into the "how” and "why” of this widely accepted comparison.' I have no doubt this will be an engaging and insightful read. Great for layovers, flights, or long rides.

Be Present Lotus Agility Pants $81 - Be Present's pants are constantly touted as the most travel-friendly pants ever and I agree. Comfortable without taking up much space; easily hand-washed and hung to dry. Bonus: this version has a cute lotus flower on the back.

Republic of Tea in a Traveler Tin $4 – When I travel I like to keep some feeling of consistency by bringing some of my favorite tea with me. I've linked to Earl Greyer because I like it, but they offer a small traveler tin of only 6 tea bags in many flavors.

Title Nine's More Than a Gym Bag $89 - Gym bag small enough to be carry on for that next flight. Even includes a removable bag for sweaty clothes, shoes, or souvenirs.

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/robinpkinney/2699920693/

Spoiled Yogis:

Does your friendly neighborhood yogi already have everything? Maybe you just want to make them feel like they do. Nourish your yogi with the seemingly grandiose.

Yurt $4000+ /Home Studio $0+ - Give that special someone their own dedicated practice space. It can be a big ordeal like a Yurt or a build-on; or it can be the corner of one room cleared out except for a few yogi details if you're short on space. Rearranging is free. Think candles, meditation cushions, and fresh flowers.

Satya Jewelry Full Speed Ahead Necklace $148 - This gold plated necklace is 24" long and features a lovely Ganesha pendant.

Organic Coconut Oil $6+ - You can use coconut oil in a million ways to soothe and care for yourself in a non-toxic manner. Your recipient will soon have the softest skin they could previously only dream about.

Adornable Solid Sweater Wrap from Lucy $108 - From extra small to extra large - count on making someone feel adorned with peace and opulence. I love this wrap in pomegranate.

The Gift of Nothing $4+ - This sweetly zen book by Patrick McDonnell is all about searching for the perfect gift for a friend that already has it all. It's actually for children, but I love it and I'm almost thirty.

Yogi Gift Guide 2011 - Part 1

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Now that Thanksgiving is behind us and the big gift-giving holidays are just over the next hill I know that some of you may be wondering what to buy for the yoginis in your life. Here I begin my list of love for all your favorite yogis. Expect 2 more days of these with a total of 48 gift ideas.

Check out old guides too. I'm trying to avoid redundancy. Those gifts are not out of style.

2010 Yogi Gift Guides: Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

Source: http://www.perbreiehagen.com

Moms/Moms To Be/Kids:
For the mom that takes care of herself and her brood - because it's a full time job.

Shiva Rea Prenatal DVD $16 - Great word of mouth and a 70 minute run-time make this DVD my go-to suggestion.

Yoga Kids 3 DVD pack $39 - For Ages 3-6. Share yoga with children through play.

Kid Sized Yoga Mat $18 - Child sized and eco friendly to include the kids, but not the toxic chemicals.

Unlimited Class Card $Varies$ - You can get these at most yoga studios for anywhere from 1 week to 1 year. Another option is a class card for a certain number of classes... say 10. Just be aware of when it expires and if you need to purchase it at the last second so they get the most out of it. Check with the recipient's local studio for more specific details.

Title Nine Amelia Longsleeve Dress $76 - Comfy, wintery, and works for an active lifestyle. It's certainly on my personal christmas list.

Yogawoman DVD $25 - This documentary celebrates the effect of yoga on women and women in yoga.

Organic Sesame Oil $6+ - In case she's not familiar with the ayurvedic daily regimen of abhyanga in winter, you can include a nice set of printed or hand-written instructions. Sesame oil can be found at just about any natural foods store or online. She may need to make time for this warm-oil self massage, but it's worth it.

Source: http://www.yogalifestyle.com/Pchakra.htm

Teens:

They've got plenty of drama to worry about, are trying to finish growing up way too fast, and they're really branching out with expressing their individuality. Embrace it.

Skunk Mittens $22 - Made of recycled cotton and also available in mink, fox, raccoon, and reindeer if you wander around the site a bit. Unique and functional!

No More Dirty Looks $2+ - Paperback or Kindle. Perfect for learning more about what we put on our bodies and how to find clean safe alternatives. It may seem at first glance like it's purely for girls, but boys use things like shampoo and body wash too.

Trevor Hall CD $7+ - I'm a big fan of the "Trevor Hall" CD, but all his music is lovely and fun.

Posters $5+ - Lots of variety here. Deities, Anusara syllabus, the Dharma Mittra poster, mandalas, etc. My favorite is this colorful Chakra poster.

Round Silk Zafu Meditation Cushion $40 - There's a lot of stress in the life of a teenager, but a regular meditation practice on this luxurious adjustable cushion will help him/her keep a level head.

Source: http://www.energymuse.com/store/bracelets-1/power-mens.html

Dudes:

New guys and advanced practitioners alike could use these.

The Mirror of Yoga $9+ - This book by Richard Freeman is available in hardcover, paperback, or Kindle. Recommended by the likes of Bhakti yoga teacher Rusty Wells for accessibility and humor.

Be Present Budokon Pants $69 - These pants are comfortable, stylish, and manly.

Burt’s Bees Muscle Mend $7 - I've heard nothing but good things about this sore muscle balm, and at only $7 every guy should have some.

Energy Muse Power Bracelet for Men $70 - This vegan bracelet is all about tapping into the energy of one's own inner power and bringing it out into the world.

Anjali Nataraj Eco-Heather Tee $39 - This Shiva Nataraj tee is simply amazing and available in 3 colors.

Make a Feast Out of It

2011-11-29T05:00:00.001-07:00

"Show up however you are, as raw and honest and vulnerable with all the thick forest of emotions and thoughts that come into it, lay it on the table and we will make a feast out of it." - Sianna Sherman

Photo and Quote Source: Shakti Sunfire

Too High a Spirit

2011-11-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Energy Muse Winner & Gratitude

2011-11-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Rachel!

You Win the beautiful compassion bracelet from Energy Muse!

I'll be contacting you shortly.

Thanks to everyone who entered and spread the word about the giveaway.

In celebration of tomorrows Thanksgiving Holiday here in the states - I'm taking a long weekend to spend some real time with my husband and dog. I'll return on Monday the 28th. For now I leave you with some words on gratitude from the always-inspiring Elena Brower (via the Wanderlust Newsletter):

"Gratitude is a state of being. When I’m in the state of gratitude, I’m in my heart, I’m focused, I’m open, and ready for everything. I’m able to give so much more of my listening and my attention, and I feel heard and received. When I’m grateful, I feel connected to myself, my kid and especially my parents. Plus Dr. Emoto has proven that the sentiments of Gratitude and Love together create the most symmetrical and beautiful water molecules(!). Consistent levels of gratitude might be my proudest feat this year."

- Elena Brower

Home Is...

2011-11-22T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's the Final Day to Enter to Win a compassion bracelet from Energy Muse!

Enter for yourself, someone in the family you were born into, or even

someone in the family you chose.

Where Are You Going?

2011-11-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

"You got to be careful if you don't know where you're going, because you might not get there."

-Yogi Berra

I spent a large chunk of this weekend in stores with incredible piles of people. Tons of people dutifully consuming... unless they're just milling about like zombies. I saw a lot of that too. I get the feeling that few of these people are practicing presence. I don't think many of them are on any particular path or maybe even aware of their life. Many of them are just going through the motions and existing. I hope I'm not doing that.

I've been trying to make christmas lists for people, buy gifts, practice yoga, figure out when/how I'm going to visit my mom one of these days... and yet I'm trying to give Thanksgiving it's time. Right now that's where I should be going. Yet my path has kind of skipped it, so I need to circle back around and make sure I get to Thanksgiving. I don't want to miss it. It's not often that gratitude is in season.

Chocolate Cake in a Mug!

2011-11-18T05:00:00.001-07:00

It's been pretty cold around here lately, so I've been craving warm chocolatey things. I felt my readers needed to know about this spectacularly easy quick recipe. I don't keep snack foods around the house 90% of the time, so these are my go-to snacks these days. They're so easy to make that I probably have them too often.

Recipe and Photo from mLee*s Flickr Page

Need a chocolate fix? Have an individual chocolate cake in 5 minutes.

4 tablespoons flour
4 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 egg
pinch of baking soda
(optional but it helps)
3 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons oil
3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)
a small splash of vanilla extract
1 large coffee mug

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.
Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 2-3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! When it starts to fall stop the microwave and take it out. Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.

Finally - Don't Forget to Enter the Energy Muse Giveaway before Nov 22nd!

Start Now

2011-11-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

The Kaivalya Yoga Method

2011-11-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

I received a newsletter last week from Alanna Kaivalya announcing the birth of Kaivalya Yoga. It's not very often you get to witness the beginning of a yoga method.

Alanna is one of my favorite teachers. Perhaps you've read her book, or heard her music. She does not come from Anusara, but from the school of Jivamukti. I've taken a few of her classes and they are always divine. She occasionally returns home to Denver, CO and teaches at the yoga studio where I got my certification. This is where I was lucky enough to experience her teaching even though she now lives in New York.

For more information about this new method, and to learn how to Apply for the first ever Kaivalya Yoga Method Teacher Training - Visit the Website!

About her decision she says:
"After more than 10 years of study and teaching, after leading, writing and contributing to teacher trainings across the globe since 2004, it is finally time (as Frank Sinatra would sing) to do it my way."

From the KYM Website:
The Kaivalya Yoga Method focuses on the whole person and seeks to unite all aspects of one’s being through specific yogic techniques including skilled hands-on adjustments, intelligently sequenced vinyasa, sanskrit chanting and mantra, meditation and a continuous focus on the highest aim of yoga – freedom and happiness.
This Method is a technique for creating the condition for the state of yoga to arise naturally, as it is already inbuilt and yogic practices lay the groundwork for this realization of yoga to occur. As the name indicates, The Kaivalya Yoga Method is a means for liberating oneself from any ideas of disintegration or disunity. In short, it is a method for realizing happiness, but in a modern-day context. Without dogma. Without hierarchy. With generosity, authenticity and elegant simplicity.

Congratulations to Alanna for taking the leap!

And don't forget to enter the Giveaway for a Compassion Bracelet from Energy Muse!

B.K.S. Iyengar on Asana

2011-11-15T05:00:00.001-07:00

"The moment you lose the feeling in the skin, the asana becomes dull, and

the flow or current of the intelligence is lost."

* * * * * * * * *

"The brain may instruct the body to do a posture, but the heart has to feel it too."

Energy Muse Jewelry - Review & Giveaway

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

You may have seen Energy Muse ads and jewelry around. They're leaders in Wearable Crystal Energy, produced in the USA, and available worldwide. They're regularly featured in magazines and worn by tons of celebrities like Kate Hudson, David Beckham, and Michael Franti to name a few. Recently they contacted me about doing a review/giveaway of their Compassion Bracelet and I was thrilled to be given the chance.

Photo courtesy of Energy Muse. MSRP: $69.99

Energy Muse Compassion Bracelet Description:
"This bracelet is worn to allow yourself to achieve Compassion. Compassion is the purest love, which gives yet asks for nothing in return. It is the ultimate and most meaningful embodiment of love that one can achieve. It is through Compassion that one attains the ability to reach deep inside oneself to achieve self-fulfillment. Citrine promotes joy, love, and light. It repels and transforms negative energy, making it possible to achieve happiness. It lifts the soul, bestowing courage, personal power, and selfconfidence. Scene Jasper encourages a connection with one’s true self. It inspires and energizes the entire body. Pink Jade inspires happiness and openness, helping one realize their dreams and accomplish their purpose in life. As you discover yourself, you realize that your happiness grows immensely when the fulfillment of Compassion is achieved. The Rudraksha beads along the bracelet are natural seeds that emit positive vibrations. The colored cord is 100% Silk."

I love this fantastic colorful bracelet - and Energy Muse has been kind enough to provide another compassion bracelet for one lucky reader!

Fit/Size: Dare I say the compassion bracelet fits me perfectly? At 7.5" it may be a little small for larger wrists, but for most women and small guys it should work.
Comfort: This bracelet just oozes comfort. It never got in the way, and at times it didn't even feel like I was wearing it. With most bracelets I usually fight with them all day or get them caught on things, but this one wasn't obnoxious at all. Zero irritation.
Quality: Really solid construction. A lot of beaded jewelry tends to feel flimsy, but this hardy piece feels like I could possibly play tug'o'war with it. Even the clasp is hefty. I am confident it will last through consistent enthusiastic wear for years.
Overall: I feel I could wear this bracelet anywhere. To a "fancy" party, a coffee shop, or even to yoga class. It goes with every single outfit I've worn with it so far. The compassion bracelet has a gradient of yellow/orange/pink and is just dripping with Joy. I would definitely recommend purchasing this bracelet or other Energy Muse products to anyone. This bracelet is everything I thought it would be. It's my new favorite bracelet (and I have a lot of them). We could all use more compassion, and there's even a matching necklace that I'm drooling over.

Maybe you want it for yourself - a little treat to remind you to cultivate compassion with every breath... or think it would make a great gift (holiday season is here) for your mom, sister, girlfriend, best friend, yoga teacher, etc. If this particular bracelet doesn't suit you - be sure and check out the website for tons of different products for all genders, styles, and budgets.

How to Enter to Win:

Do at least one of the 3 things listed below.
Leave a separate comment on this post for each of the 3 entry methods you do.

Like Energy Muse on Facebook

Tweet this Giveaway (include @energymuse and @heartsexpanding)

Blog this Giveaway

Who's Eligible? Everyone!
Deadline: November 22nd, midnight GMT
Winner Announced via random number: November 23rd
Make sure there's a way for me to contact you in your comments, or
I'll have to give your prize to the cat.

Shifting with the Seasons

2011-11-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

I can barely believe it's almost halfway through November. The deciduous trees are shedding leaves and letting the evergreens have the limelight for a while. The wind is faster and colder. Occasionally we're even getting snow here in the northern hemisphere.

I've made it no secret that I'm not a fan of the cold. Now it's time for me to hibernate like a small bear and I'll gladly do so. Wrapped in a blanket with a cup of hot tea all I can think about is turning on the fireplace one of these days. I've never lived somewhere with a fireplace before and the whole idea is charming.

I've been sick so I haven't really had an asana practice recently. I read somewhere that someone "heard" that every single day that you don't practice you lose a weeks worth of progress. I really hope that's not true because if it is I'm doomed.

In the spirit of the season slow down your practice today and quietly turn inside. Shed your leaves and let your bones rest for a bit. Take great care and nurture yourself maybe for the entire weekend. Moisturize and warm your skin, make your muscles supple, get sufficient sleep, and slow your monkey mind so you are better prepared for the cool weather and stressful holiday season that is coming.

Here at Hearts Expanding I've got some great stuff coming up. Giveaways, gift guides, book reviews and more! Stay tuned and take care of yourselves.

Meghan Currie Inspires - (Video)

2011-11-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

I came across this fabulous video of a timelapse practice by Meghan Currie (Wandering Yogini and yoga teacher). You should totally check out her happy artsy website complete with blog.

This video features a lovely inspiring practice that made me want to get up and do yoga immediately. Some of it looks a little funny because of the fast timelapse nature of the video, but overall it looks like a graceful dance. I have to note that not only does she pull out some really nice tricks, but she does it all without a mat.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

What You're Made Of

2011-11-09T05:00:00.001-07:00

Be humble, for you are made of earth. Be noble, for you are made of stars. - Serbian Proverb

photo source: fuckyeahyoga

John Friend Collection from Manduka

2011-11-08T05:00:00.000-07:00

A few different videos have been making the rounds lately announcing that Anusara and Manduka have partnered up to create a new collection of yoga mats and accessories. This is my favorite of the videos.

I may just have to buy the John Friend Collection eKO SuperLite® Travel Mat because I love purple and I don't own a single travel mat. My primary mat is like 7 pounds (heavy for toting around), whereas the superlite is only 2.5 pounds and easily folds up for packing.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Keeping Anxiety in Check

2011-11-04T05:00:00.000-06:00

Many of us living people deal with anxiety. I definitely deal with anxiety all the time (a certain degree of it is normal and healthy after all). I wouldn't say I suffer from it or anything, but it's around. I find that my yoga and meditation practice helps me to keep it from getting out of hand. If you don't have a regular yoga practice you might wonder how that idea is supposed to work.

Well, meditation trains the mind to be more still, more quiet, and in general to focus not on what-ifs but on the moment as it truly is. Even if there's a lot going on outside of myself, I can take respite internally where there's always some peace keeping a level head.

What your parents think when you don't answer your phone.

The asana practice helps too, but it's not quite as obvious how it works. Even if I explain it... if you've never done it - it's all just hearsay. I'll do my best. When I'm in a pose I don't just find a boring middle point and hang out... and I don't power through into the next thing. No, I find a spot where there's a mild discomfort and I sit with it for a bit. It's not serious pain or anything I can't handle. It's comfortable enough that if I focus on my breath then I might not even notice. This is the edge where I sit. Right on the line between "this sucks" and "I love this pose". Now what does this have to do with anxiety and stress? Well if I'm practicing finding this subtle place where it's almost uncomfortable then I learn to see that this spot is not a big deal. I learn my personal boundaries where I can weather the storm and where it's a serious problem.

Later when I'm not on my mat I can start to see when I'm worrying about nothing (because how many of my worries actually happen?) and when it truly is a problem. If I can recognize the non-issues sooner than I waste a lot less time and energy being anxious and I can spend a lot more time enjoying life.

Just Stop

2011-11-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

This is totally how I feel as a yoga teacher with my students. Seriously. When I say at the beginning of class that you can stop and rest or opt out of any part of class - I mean it.

Effortless Practice

2011-11-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

The thing is we have to bring some element of joy & fun to our practice so it becomes effortless. - Panditji

This is far from effortless - just sayin'

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T11:34:00.002-06:00

Here's a couple of pumpkins I've done. The Ganesha is actually from a couple years ago, and the little drawn one is from this year. Hope you all have a super-fun spooky Halloween.

Ganesha Carving

Ganesha all lit up.

My little kitchen mini pumpkins.

B.K.S. Iyengar on Physical Health

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-06:00

I'm currently reading B.K.S. Iyengar's Light on Life, and this passage stood out to me:

"Physical health is not a commodity to be bargained for. Nor can it be swallowed in the form of drugs and pills. It has to be earned through sweat. It is something that we must build up. You have to create within yourself the experience of beauty, liberation and infinity. This is health. Healthy plants and trees yield abundant flowers and fruits. Similarly, from a healthy person, smiles and happiness shine forth like the rays of the sun."

Cards for Yogis with a Sense of Humor

2011-10-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

Cath Tate Cards: Where you'll find these cards and more.

This is not a sponsored post, I just found them interesting.

The Thick and Thin of Yoga Mats

2011-10-26T05:00:00.000-06:00

I've been hearing a lot lately about how when you're looking for a yoga mat you really want to find something thick. According to current discussion thick mats are ideal and necessary. I really don't think that's always the case, so I just have to say something. Yes thick mats are great for things like tops of feet in virasana or knees during low lunges. Thick mats have their place, but they have their drawbacks too.

I've tried a lot of different mats - some I've purchased, some I've used because they were the only thing in the studio at work, and sometimes I've gone without entirely. The thickest mats I've tried were far from the thickest available, and I think it takes no time at all before a mat becomes too thick. If given the option of a really thick mat or nothing - I'd rather go bare.

The thickest mats I've tried have actually hurt my feet far more than the hardest wood floor. If your mat is thick but not firm then you will have difficulty balancing, and a potentially dangerous situation for wrists. Handstands, arm balances - these should probably never be done on a thick squishy mat. Some mats are thick but firm (not very common though) so they don't pose these problems and I don't really have any problem with them. However, thinner mats can be great and I prefer my mats a little on the thin side. I don't mind practicing on a bare floor, and I think thin mats get me the closest approximation to practicing on "the ground with stick". When I attended a Noah Maze workshop early this year I noticed he rolled out a mat that at first almost looked like a long black piece of paper. I don't even know where you get such a mat. It was crazy looking, but he prefers the thinnest mat possible.

This is all personal preference, but the point is that it IS an entirely individual situation. Your mat supports and holds you through the long journey of your practice. It needs to fit you, your practice, and your needs. Thick may not be it, so remember that when shopping for your next mat. Listen to your body, not to popular opinion.

5-Minute Meditation Music

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-06:00

If you're the type that likes a little music to your meditation (it can help with timing and atmosphere) then I have just the video for you. This little gem by kirtan artist Wade Imre Morisette is 6 minutes and 41 seconds long, which I think it just enough time to hit play, get settled, meditate for 5 minutes, and slowly draw yourself back to your day to day. Also a natural fit on playlists for pranayama and asana practice. Enjoy!

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Yoga Flash Mob - Yoga Stage

2011-10-21T05:00:00.000-06:00

Here's a video of the kind of fabulous marketing I would love to take part in. Public displays of yoga draw in yogis and newbies alike. This flash mob by Yoga Stage takes their passion for yoga to the streets!

More about YogaStage:

YogaStage is a new networking site for yoga teachers, students, and the places they gather.
For practitioners it provides one central location to find classes, studios, festivals, etc in your area or wherever you want to go. For teachers they provide job-search options with listings from studios, festivals, and quick Yoga Press Kits (YPK's) to market your teaching. Finally, if you own a studio or coordinate a yoga event of any kind you can put out calls for teachers and market yourself to students. The entire yoga community will be meeting at YogaStage. Check it out so you don't get left out.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Workshop Handstands

2011-10-20T05:00:00.001-06:00

One of my teachers says "Anyone can do handstands, but not everyone will."

I find this to be true, and today I want to mention some different ways to work on your handstands.

Throw in a couple of these each day and you'll be a hardcore handstander in no time.

This L variation is great when you're working on building strength in your upper body.
Hands can be directly under shoulders as you get more used to it.
Eventually you can take one leg straight up... then both if you're feeling bold.

How to Get There: Come into a slightly short-stanced downward-facing-dog pose at the wall.
Balls of your feet in the wall/floor crease and your heels on the wall. From there you walk your feet up the wall.
When you're ready to come down you can walk your feet back down the wall.

At the Wall - Take your fingertips about 4 inches from the wall.
Claw fingers down, squeeze feet together. Hands and feet reaching strongly away from each other.
Christina Sell (pictured) says if you can hold this at the wall for 2 minutes then you're strong enough to work on balancing away from the wall.

Working with a friend is magic!
Can work here on balance, OR on holding it for 1 minute.
Really works your strength and stamina.

Photos courtesy of Mark Ickes.

Take a Breath and Call me in the Morning

2011-10-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

Today I want you to take a big breath. Really. Like consciously stop and take a big long deep breath. (Eyes closed is nice but optional.) Inhale all the blessings present in your life right now; then Exhale all the bullshit you're hanging onto for no good reason.

Doesn't that feel better? Repeat as necessary.

Photo Source: This glorious pic is from a Sianna Sherman Newsletter not too long ago.

John Friend on Light and Dark

2011-10-18T05:00:00.000-06:00

"Orient to the light, and extend it back into the dark" - John Friend

Photo Source: found over at Devil Wears Prana

May You Never Have This Teacher

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

Readers via Email - Click Here to see the Video.

An Act of Rebellion

2011-10-13T05:00:00.000-06:00

How do you go about becoming that free? Practice Yoga.

Not that it's the only method, but it works pretty darn well.

A Sharp Stick

2011-10-12T05:00:00.000-06:00

"The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called 'truth'." - Dan Rather

Christina Sell Recap

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a holiday, so no post. Not a holiday I acknowledge, but I take federal holidays off nonetheless. Hope you all had a great weekend and did at least some yoga. I spent the weekend at a series of Christina Sell workshops and that is always fun. I love workshops - they're so much more interesting than daily classes. It was my first experience with Christina apart from her blog, and I'm glad I went. I even made Adam go with me to the mixed levels classes.

We covered all sorts of things: from flow to precision to sequencing. Definitely an educational weekend and I got to meet all sorts of interesting new yogis. I even got some recommendations for classes around the area most worth going to. Much thanks to Christina and the entire Boise Kula for an uplifting weekend.

Christina Sell Workshop This Weekend

2011-10-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

All Weekend I'll be attending a Christina Sell Workshop here in Boise. The schedule:

Friday Oct 7 (mixed level): 6:00PM - 8:30PM
The Flow of Grace: All Levels flow-based class. This all levels class will incorporate creative vinyasa sequences, breath-based action and informative demonstrations to assist students in connecting to the Flow of Grace in the form of their breath.

Saturday Oct 8 (mixed level): 9:00AM - 11:30AM
Build a Firm Foundation of Faith: All Levels Standing Poses and Introductory Arm balances. This all-levels class is designed to cover the foundational aspects of standing poses and arm balances to help students gain access to deeper levels of awareness in familiar postures and greater proficiency in more challenging postures. Expect strong work, detailed alignment and come with a sense of adventure.
Saturday Oct 8 (mixed level): 1:30PM - 3:30PM
Stabilizing and Expanding The Inner Light: Hip Opening, Forward Bends, and Twisting for All Levels. This All levels class will work with hip opening principles to help students stabilize their knees while opening their hips. Come explore the inner and outer work of the dynamic pulsation between stability and freedom. Expect virasana, padmasana, alignment lessons, pranayama and meditation.

Sunday Oct 9 (Intermediate/Level 2): 9:00AM - 11:30AM
The Path of Practice is a Path of Love: Intermediate Level Group Practice led by Christina Sell. This Intermediate practice will be guided by Christina while she practices with the group This format is a tradition in Anusara Yoga and gives students a chance to build on all the work of the weekend in an empowering, challenging and innovative practice. Expect good music, sun salutations, standing posture, arm balances, back bends and forward bends. Come ready to work and to play.
Sunday Oct 9, Sequencing: 1:30PM - 3:30PM
The Structure of Spirit: Sequencing Strategies of Class and Practice. Learn effective, simple strategies for sequencing yoga classes and personal practice to help you and your students advance in progressive and empowering ways. This class is aimed at teachers but is appropriate for anyone wanting a "behinds the scenes" look at sequencing and class design.

So if you're in the area - sign up HERE for one or more of these classes.

Photo Source: Christina's Blog - which I linked to at the top.

Yoga in the Dental Chair

2011-10-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

You know you're addicted to yoga when you find it everywhere. I tend to find yoga in everything I do and see, but I never expected to find it when I went to the dentist yesterday. I have a really sensitive gag reflex so when they take x-rays I always gag. Usually they just give me some salt to rub on my tongue and we make it work. This time the hygienist gave me a whole series of things to do and I felt like I was doing yoga.

So I put the salt on my tongue... then she put the thingy in my mouth (real sophisticated I know) and then she told me to lift my right foot up and hold it there. Focus on that foot. Then close your eyes, bite down... and breathe through your nose. I had to do it like 6 times and it definitely felt like yoga.

Focusing on pressing through my lifted foot did wonders. Yay for dental yoga! I still have to go back a few times because apparently I get cavities now. Hopefully I'll manage to integrate more yoga into my visits - like pranayama for anxiety.

Photo Source: Gadling Photo of the Day

Try Something Different

2011-10-05T05:00:00.000-06:00

"Be crumbled. So wild flowers will come up where you are. You have been stony for too many years. Try something different. Surrender." - Rumi

What I Hear About Yoga

2011-10-04T05:00:00.000-06:00

I'm pretty sure this is talking about me, but I have to note that this guy appears to be wearing ballet flats.

Friday - Looking Back

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Friday was a lot of things...including but not limited to: the end of the month, my 11 year anniversary (since our first date), and the first time I got one of my feet behind my head.

Now as October begins - it's becoming harder to deny that my favorite season Summer is gone. The weather is still mostly here, but the cooler mornings and nights are creeping in for sure. I'm trying my best to accept Autumn, but the idea of wearing pants and starting to wear sweaters soon is not thrilling. Hopefully the increased opportunities to bake and celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays will help.

My anniversary was nice - nothing too horribly exciting, but good. Our wedding anniversary is coming up soon so we don't tend to make a huge deal out of the dating anniversary. Basically we went out to a nice restaurant and had what turned out to be mediocre food. Despite my best efforts I really don't like polenta or red cabbage. The live music was fun though. I definitely enjoyed that.

Oh yeah, and I got my foot behind my head... which is barely even noteworthy. That's how I've been feeling anyway. If you've been around a while you may recall that after my foot reached my head in King Pigeon pose - that Eka Pada Sirsana was my next big goal. Every day I feel equally distant from that goal as the day I set it, but Friday it just kinda happened. Now I always thought that achieving this feat would be like - "Fuck Yeah!", but it turned out to be a half smile, and then I pretty much forgot about it. I've been terribly underwhelmed about the whole thing. Does that mean I'm becoming less attached to the fruits of my labor? Maybe. If so, I'm okay with that. I only managed it with one foot... so one of these days I'll be an ambidextrous foot-behind-header and that'll be neat. For pictures at least. Something I don't have any of yet.

Kino Macgregor - Ashtanga Badass and Teacher

So what is all this rambling about? Well - as the seasons change and the earth gets a bit quieter it's a good idea to turn inside and do some assessing. See where you've been, check out where you are, and realize where you're going. Shed your attachment to the past, try to make the most of your present, and if your future does not look promising - either learn to accept it or take action to change it Now.

Photo Source: The top pic is mine, but the bottom pic is from KinoYoga.

And the Winner Is...

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to Rachel at Alive in the Fire! You Win a pair of pants and a tank from Champion!

Rachel said: If yoga pants gave me super powers: "My superpower would be to respond to difficult situations with gratitude (a truly yogic perspective)."

Thanks to all who entered.

Today is the final day of National Yoga Month and the last day of the 30 Day Yoga Challenge. If you've been following along since day one - Congratulations on reaching your 30 Days of home practice! If you started later than that - just keep going and send a shout out when you finish.

Let me know how the challenge affected your life. If you feel that it didn't and it was a waste of time - tell me that too!

Now get your Yoga on.

Tender Thoughts

2011-09-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today is the last day to enter to win pants and a tank from the Champion Shape line.

Winner announced tomorrow morning.

30 Day Challenge - Zombies Welcome

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

This video is advertising a different 30 Day Yoga Challenge than mine...check it out. It's exactly what I was going for with my challenge.

Yoga Outreach - Zombies from Spy Films on Vimeo.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Start a Revolution

2011-09-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

"So the first step is to stop, notice, and appreciate what is happening. Even if this is all we do, it’s revolutionary." - Pema Chodron

♥ Anusara Yoga Class with Marie Lumholtz ♥

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Each week I've been posting a new video for the 30 day challenge. Since this is the last week of the challenge - this is the last video. I've stepped up the length of class again - it's like 1.5 hours long. It's a full Anusara class with Marie Lumholtz... yay! Because it's Youtube, it may take a while to buffer through the whole thing. So I suggest you let it buffer while you do something else and come back to it later... unless of course you actually have great internet... then disregard this whole chit chat about the buffering.

Finish the 30 days off strong and you will sail right into a daily practice that lasts a lifetime.

These videos are all being added to the original 30 Day Yoga Challenge page, so if you've marked that post then you'll easily have access to all videos.

If you are just hearing about the challenge: You can begin at anytime, so start today!

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Calvin and Hobbes on Infinity

2011-09-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

Asana Here and Now

2011-09-21T06:00:00.000-06:00

For my 30 Day Yoga Challengers I have a little bonus sequence for you to check out. It comes straight out of Ram Dass' book, Remember: Be Here Now. I was surprised to find this little sequence. I'm really just posting it for you to look at. I liked the wavy little line used to direct the order in which to do them. It begins and ends in savasana, so if you're a big fan of this pose, maybe you could try book-ending your sequences like this.

Also - it's a really interesting book. If you're not put off by a lot of talk about LSD. National Yoga Month is a great time to try new sequences or read some classic yogi texts such as this one.

If you haven't joined the 30 Day Yoga Challenge - Start Now!

Then Enter the Giveaway to win some new yoga clothes!

Champion Shape Review & Giveaway

2011-09-20T02:00:00.000-06:00

Last week I received an awesome little package at my door. It was an outfit from the new Champion Shape line to review. All black pants and tank top with smoothing shaping control panels and sweat-wicking materials. As you know I was in the middle of a slow-down detox week so I waited until the weekend to try them out. That way I could put this outfit through the ringer of a full 2-3 hour yoga practice. These pants and tank would go forward, backward, upside down, get twisted in, and sweated through. Luckily, they passed the test, and there's a giveaway too.

I'll start from the top.
As other reviews have mentioned - because it is a shape-smoothing tank it is slightly stiff and difficult to get on/off. Adam actually had to be called in to get it off, but I have multiple shirts from various athletic brands that require this. My shoulders and chest are just large enough that it's a common issue for me. Therefore I don't consider this a dealbreaker. It still fit well and did not leave red painful chafe marks (something I consider far more important). Another plus, was coverage confidence. Big busted women everywhere know that many tanks leave you feeling like you're going to fall out at any time. This was never a problem; even upside down.

While the pants also have control panels in them I never found them stiff or uncomfortable in any way. I tend to have a problem with pants being too tight on my thighs, and these pants did not squeeze me the wrong way. They were totally comfortable. Adam also pointed out that there is a very flattering seam-line that runs along the butt of these pants. It makes your butt look rounder if you tend towards flatness.

Overall:
At $40 for the top, and $50 for the pants, they are highly affordable in the yoga clothes world. The sweat-wicking worked great - I never felt soggy or gross. As you can see by the pics, all that control clearly did not impede movement or range of motion in any way. Not too shabby.

The Champion Shape Giveaway!

I was so pleased with the set I tried out, that I asked for a set for one of my readers, so we can finish off National Yoga Month with a bang.

One of you is getting free Champion Shape pants and a tank!

Who can enter: Anyone

When: Giveaway Ends Sept 29th at Midnight

(winner announced sept 30th by random number generator)

How to Enter:

(Mandatory) First Entry: Leave a comment on this post telling me: "If yoga pants gave you super powers - What would yours be?" (1 entry)

(Optional) Extra Credit Entries:

leave a separate comment (or 2 where allowed) here for each one that you do.

Become a Follower of my Blog - 1 entry

Follow my twitter - 1 entry

Tweet about the giveaway - 1 entry per day

Blog about it - 2 entries

Facebook it - 2 entries

That's up to 8 entries/comments on day one and 1 more entry daily for tweeting.
Yowza that's a lot of entries!

Make sure there's a way for me to contact you in your comments, or I'll have to give your prize to the cat.

Yoga Warrior

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

"Kill therefore with the sword of wisdom the doubt born of ignorance that lies in thy heart. Be one in self-harmony, in Yoga, and arise, great warrior, arise." - Bhagavad Gita

Photo Source: Reverse Warrior from j / f / photos Flickr page.

Week 3 Practice Video - 30 Day Yoga Challenge

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today marks the beginning of the 3rd week of the 30 Day Yoga Challenge (for National Yoga Month). If you've been following along then you know I've been digging up a new video each week you can practice with to keep things fresh and interesting. The first couple weeks I featured yoga practices for absolute beginners that were about 20-30 minutes in length. This week I'm bumping it up to an All Levels Vinyasa Flow class with Ally Hamilton that is just shy of One Hour long.

All levels means that it is suitable for beginner, intermediate, or advanced students. There's something for everyone here. However, since it's a flow class it helps to be at least vaguely familiar with some basics. If you've been practicing with the earlier videos posted here you'll be prepared. If this is your first class ever - you'll still be ok. You'll just have to look at the screen more often to know what the heck they're doing all the time.

I really like this sequence and the fact that this video includes a guided savasana instead of dropping you off to do it yourself. Lovely full instruction and a great Ganesha painting made this video my top pick for this week. Enjoy!

One Hour Vinyasa Flow - All Level - with Ally Hamilton from YogaEarth on Vimeo.

Halfway There - Challenge Update

2011-09-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

Now that we're halfway through the 30 day challenge, it's a good time to check in. With each other and with ourselves. How's your practice coming along? What are some obstacles you've encountered and what are you doing about them? Feeling any different? Are you doing it alone or with support? Are you enjoying it? If you're not having any fun - you may be too serious. Now lighten up and do something silly. Sometimes a buddy and some partnered balance poses are all you need to associate yoga with giggle fits.

My home practice right now is:
I'm doing the detox this week so its very small. The practices YJ provides are like 30 minutes long, which is a huge drop back from my usual 2-3 hour thing. I think it's good for me though. As someone with a dominant vata dosha I tend to be on overdrive as much as possible. I need to sometimes focus on doing less and doing it slower. This week is definitely accomplishing that. I'm still doing my hour long morning session, but to have such calm afternoons is sweet.

My favorite part may be the self-abhyanga that I've been doing daily as part of my slow-down detox. It truly makes me feel luxurious and clean and pampered. What is abhyanga you ask? It's a self-massage with warm organic sesame oil that is done pre-shower. I coat myself in warm oil literally from head to toe - then I sit and meditate to let it soak in. Then I shower. Try it! Quality instructions here.

Other things I've been doing as part of my practice and detox week: Reading books all day long, going to bed earlier, getting up earlier (like when it's still dark), and abstaining from killing things. This sounds like a no-brainer, but I didn't realize how hard it is to NOT kill spiders and flies. I accidentally killed a mosquito Tuesday night.

Awakening with Yoga

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

"To the disciples, Yogananda often said, “Be patient in your yoga practice. A plant won’t grow the moment you plant the seed. ‘Make haste slowly,’ as the saying goes. It may take time to achieve the results you long for, but the more you practice, the more you will see your life changing.“The day will dawn at last when you won’t even recognize yourself as the person you were." - “The Essence of Self-Realization: The Wisdom of Paramhansa Yogananda”

Something to keep in mind as you practice, but especially if you are just starting.

Yes, this is my dog.

On the Popularity of Kitchari

2011-09-13T06:30:00.000-06:00

I've always heard good things about kitchari. Always. Good Things. Everyone always sounds so enthusiastic. I was optimistically curious about it for this 7 day detox. Made some yesterday: I did my best - it's fairly simple and I've made much more complicated foods.

I didn't care for it. Neither did Adam. It came out just tasting like cumin rice. Tried adding the cilantro chutney they recommended for flavor - and I didn't have faith to begin with because I hate cilantro so I only used a tiny amount. Anyway, it was something I would have to choke down plain. It was just gross with chutney. Instead I went to IHOP... man I suck at that. The strawberry pancakes were good though. Good thing I wasn't really intending to do the whole detox plan and eat kitchari for three meals a day. Then I'd really be a failure. I don't need detox guilt.

The dog however, was very excited about the kitchari. He loved the smell of it while it was cooking and he did tricks without being asked to for a tiny chihuahua sized taste of it... and he gobbled it up. Loved it. Well... the dog is better at detoxing than I am. Ha! Maybe I just suck at making kitchari. I'll definitely be trying again in the future.

I did accidentally make mung bean sprouts though.

7-Day Detox with Yoga Journal

2011-09-12T10:26:00.000-06:00

Yoga Journal is having a 7-day fall detox program created by Ayurvedic consultant Scott Blossom. Anyone can join and I signed up, but I'm not really going to do the whole program. It's not one of those detox programs where you fast or live off juice for weeks. Instead it's one week of cleansing kitchari (a rice, beans, veggie mix), hot tea, lots of self care, yoga, and meditation.

However, I'm not really a detoxer. I don't do that kind of thing... but I do intend to slow down my days, follow the self care techniques such as abhyanga (daily self massage with oil), yoga classes, and meditations. I'm even going to try kitchari which is a cleansing but nourishing dish. I'm turning off my cell phone for the week and I'm essentially going to treat this week as a retreat at home.

The detox program has officially started today with daily emails going out to guide you through it with guided meditation and yoga sequences with awesome teachers like Sianna Sherman. It's all pretty spelled out for you, so it would be good for those that have never done a detox of any kind before. They even provide a shopping list (for recipe ingredients and the like) which is pretty helpful. However, the list is incomplete, so be careful with that.

Go Here for a basic breakdown of the plan and HERE to sign up. You can join at anytime, but if you want to slow down with me - start today!

Restorative Sequence with Samantha Mehra

2011-09-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

When I started the 30 Day Challenge I posted a great video for beginners to get you started. Since we're starting the 2nd week of the challenge today I thought it was time for a 2nd video. If you've been doing the challenge but aren't used to doing yoga everyday you may be a little sore lately. If that's the case (and even if it's not), then you should totally do the practice in this new video. It's a restorative vinyasa sequence which just means that it's a soft quiet practice that may use props. In this case she does use 2 yoga blocks, but you can use blankets, towels, books, or whatever you have around as a substitute.

This sequence starts out with some pranayama, or breathing exercise, and even if you're weirded out by the whole thing you should give it a try. Nadi Shodhana is great for your energy and your sinuses. That's the breathing exercise she has you do - and it's my favorite one ever. Bonus that she has a great accent. Enjoy!

A Vinyasa of Restorative Poses with Samantha Mehra: TerraFlow Video 38 from YogaEarth on Vimeo.

This video is also being added on to the original 30 Day Yoga Challenge page, so if you've marked that post then you'll easily have access to both videos.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video.

Beginner's Week Re-Cycled

2011-09-08T06:00:00.001-06:00

A lot of brand new yogis are taking part in the challenge, so I think this is a good time to revisit some posts I did last year. These are all for beginners. I cover everything from finding a teacher to what to wear and when to eat. I like to think they're helpful. Maybe you'll think so too.

Give it a Shot

I'm a Beginner - Help!

Building a Foundation

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

Wear This - Not That

Beginning Yoga - For Men

If you haven't joined the 30 Day Challenge yet - no worries! Start at any time.

Hippies

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

I've posted this kind of sign before I think (because they really amuse me) but this weekend I actually came across one for sale in a little road-side shop. Naturally, I bought it. One day when I open my own studio this little piece of awesome from Beartown will be on my studio wall.

Noah Maze Collection - (Videos)

2011-09-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

My apologies to the readers that don't watch the videos... but here's a whole set of videos I stumbled across sometime last week. They're all Noah Maze a couple years ago at an Intensive. In the videos he does various little yoga tricks and fancy moves (some of which I cannot imagine how to do). I've only gotten to attend one weekend of classes with him, but he is a great teacher and practitioner. From what I can tell - Noah Maze is a god. Just look at that magnificent bastard.

If that doesn't inspire you to Join the 30 Day Challenge to build a home practice, I don't know what will.

Readers via Email - Click Here to see the four videos.

Come as You are

2011-09-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

"You may think that to try something new you need to be totally open hearted, or completely courageous, or superstrong and stretchy. But you can come as you are, bringing the very body you have today, with equal doses of skepticism and eagerness, right onto the mat with you." - Cyndi Lee

Join the 30 Day Yoga Challenge
Skeptics Welcome.

30 Day Yoga Challenge

2011-09-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

In case you haven't already heard - September is National Yoga Month!

Whether you're an absolute beginner who is curious about starting yoga, or you want to take your practice deeper with a regular home practice - There's no better time than the present.

I hereby challenge you, dear reader, to a 30 Day Yoga Challenge.

The challenge: Practice yoga at home every day for 30 days.
The details are completely up to you. You can use a DVD, online streaming classes, books, magazines, or a sequence you built yourself. Do whatever you want - because it's YOUR practice. Have music or not, do it alone or with friends, at night or in the morning, naked or fully clothed, indoors or out. I recommend you practice for a minimum of 20 minutes, but practice any length of time you're comfortable with. Start the challenge at anytime - it doesn't have to be on the 1st. And if you miss a day or two - just pick up where you left off.

You'll feel better physically and emotionally, experience more mental clarity, and might even feel more upbeat. Practice every day for 30 days and see if it doesn't change your life.

Here's a video to get you started. It's maybe a 20 minute beginners' sequence. Do it every day and you'll see improvements in your asana and your attitude.

A Beginners' Sequence from BridgetLyonsYoga on Vimeo.

Here's the Restorative sequence video for Week 2. Toss this into the mix for balance. It uses 2 yoga blocks, but they can be substituted with pillows, blankets, towels, or whatever you have around.

A Vinyasa of Restorative Poses with Samantha Mehra: TerraFlow Video 38 from YogaEarth on Vimeo.

For Week 3, here's a full One Hour All Levels Vinyasa Flow class complete with savasana.
All Levels = Good for Anyone.

One Hour Vinyasa Flow - All Level - with Ally Hamilton from YogaEarth on Vimeo.

Week 4! The final video is a 1.5 hour Anusara Yoga Class with Marie Lumholtz. It's a little longer, but I think you'll love it.

Write me to tell me if you're accepting the challenge... and/or send me a pic of you doing yoga! I'll post any pics I receive (along with a link to any site you choose), but will only post stories with your explicit permission. Send stories and pics to karmafloats {at} hotmail {dot} com

Readers via Email - Click Here to see the Videos

Less Throwing, More Breathing

2011-08-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

I think my mail-woman needs to take up yoga. Everyday I know the mail has arrived when I hear her zoom past. It's kind of like on Funny Farm, but in the suburbs. Even my packages she seems to throw at the house. I can just hope that one day she becomes less anxious, slows her breath, becomes less reactive, and slows down a little bit altogether. Slow down mail-lady. Slow Down.

In the meantime, I'll just have to accept that my packages arrive like they've been drop kicked at the door to save time.

Readers via Email - Click Here for the Video

Child of the Universe

2011-08-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

from http://coffeeandyoga.tumblr.com

Out on the Edge

2011-08-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

This picture is from http://coffeeandyoga.tumblr.com/