Winter Blues

This week we had our first substantial snow fall of the season in the Midwest, and, although beautiful, the change of weather can sometimes bring sinus pressure, the infamous runny nose, and “I’m so uncomfortable I can’t sleep” scratchy throat.  What to do?  Yoga!  This open heart sequence from Ekhart Yoga is wonderful for relieving any irritating congestion in the upper body.  Check it out here: http://youtu.be/lvCiVsER-Cs

Dainty and Beautiful

Perhaps this isn’t so much of a “yoga fashion” suggestion as it is simply a piece (and company) I love and wanted to share.  This Tether Ring from Erica Weiner jewelry is so dainty and stunning I thought everyone would be interested in knowing about the site in which I found this gem…INCLUDING yogis!  When looking around in yoga class, my fellow classmates are typically wearing layers of bracelets, midi-rings and more!  If that describes you (it’s definitely me) check out all the beautiful finds at ericaweiner.com today!

Change IS Good

        “1. make a to-do-list

          2. practice coloring

          3. research graduate schools

          4. be spontaneous

          5. create lasting childhood memories

          6. make a will…”

          -Sally (Cat in the Hat)

Something that has been repeatedly noted while going through yoga teacher training is the importance of continuing to go to classes even after you begin to teach.  There is ALWAYS room to learn, to improve, and perhaps even have something you've heard a thousand times before resonate with you differently than it has in the past.  That being said yogis, make sure to get outside of your comfort zone and try a variety of classes.  Sure, your Saturday morning class is great, the teacher unbelievable, and you love your fellow classmates, but why not try  Tuesday night?  See what it’s like to slip on spandex after dinner, and get outdoors after the sun falls.  Speaking as a Mom, it’s sometimes rare to even leave the house for up to two days! (sigh) Venture out, and see the world with a different perspective.  Don’t be set in your ways, try something new, and allow yourself to continue to grow.  

Pasta Fagioli

It’s gray outdoors, the summer heat has officially passed, and the night is creeping in earlier and earlier as the winter nears. Our bodies crave hearty, warm foods as the cold weather settles in, so why not make a classic comfort food for dinner tonight…soup!  This Pasta Fagioli recipe has the thickness of a chili, but consist of more Italian flavors.  Serve with thinly sliced whole grain garlic bread or a simple spinach salad, and dinner is done!  P.S.  Also great the second day :)

Leggings: An Essential for Yogis

Leggings.  In the yoga world, can you ever have enough?  This blog is still fairly new, and in regards to “yogi wear” I’ve written about leggings multiple times.  My philosophy:  If your practicing yoga you should own the same amount of leggings as you do jeans. Dare I say perhaps even owning more?!  So the legging posts shall continue!  Here is a chic pair from Forever 21: http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=activewear&ProductID=2000128066&VariantID=

Simple Ingredients. Big Flavor.

I don’t use Pinterest very often.  I find what seems to be an unending amount of information a bit disorienting; however, Pinterest in mild doses can pay off.  This recipe is the perfect example.  I have been in a lunch rut the past few weeks (I’ve lost count of how many tomato sandwiches I’ve made), and was looking for something new and easy (with a seven month old son at home anything complicated is off the menu).  Well this Portobello Mushroom Wrap was perfect in both the convenience and health categories.  It has simple ingredients, which more often than not equals a healthier food choice, and the wrap has such big flavor.  Let me know what you think, or leave some of your favorite wrap recipes below.

We All Need Yoga

Yoga is beneficial to everyone, for it can be modified to fit all.  Yoga does not discriminate.  It does not push you beyond what your physically capable of, yet it can surprise you by allowing you to go farther than your mind previously believed.  Yoga is not a religion, yet is spiritual.  It’s a way of life.  It’s our choices.  It’s necessary. We all need yoga.

That being said, I encourage you to check out a new site from Andreas Zoltan, creator of DoYouYoga.com, and Erin Motz of the “30 Day Yoga Challenge.”  It’s a revolutionary movement of bringing yoga into the homes of people all over the world.  Making yoga accessible to all, motivating, and social.  Make sure to check it out today: http://www.myyogapro.com/00404