Slow Down

“Brush it off! “

“Push through!” 

This world is constantly commanding us to not feel and stay busy; therefore, forcing us out of the present.  Yoga on the other hand encourages quite the opposite.  For most people it enables us to slow down, and to stay in our bodies opposed to consistently being sucked out of it via distractions (i.e. work, television, worry…).  I like what T.K.V Desikachar mentions in his book,  “The Heart of Yoga,” the idea of there being one rule regarding rest:  Take when needed.  This is such a wonderfully simplistic piece of wisdom, and a philosophy yoga embodies.  This yoga sequence above by Colleen Saidman incorporates many twists allowing you to let go of tensions brought on by this world both physically AND emotionally.  Enjoy J

Winter Fruit Salad

It’s the middle of January, and many of us have new years resolutions at stake.  “This is going to be the year I eat healthy!”  And while I agree with the girls from Tone It Up that, “Abs are made in the kitchen,” who wants a bowl of refrigerated baby carrots to snack on when a heaping serving of warm calorie packed mashed potatoes is the only logical food choice to protect you from the harsh winter cold?  That being said, if the food is prepared right you’ll be left with an unbelievable satisfying meal that won’t leave you with a feeling of remorse after eating.  Case and point: Winter Fruit Salad. 

A Lovely Surprise

I have taken a bit of a hiatus and have neglected my blog, twitter feed and other social media outlets for over a month now.  “Why?” you may ask.  Life!  It all started back in November when I developed a breast infection (TMI? You nursing moms understand).   My son was also sick and husband out of town.  I am EXTREMELY fortunate to have a mother still willing to take care of me at twenty-five years of age; however, after I was in bed for almost two straight days it became difficult for me to play catch up.  Well, here I am, just about a week into the year 2014 and beginning to feel “caught up.”  I recently opened my twitter feed and came across the name “Tiny Devotions.” What a lovely surprise!  This company’s aim is to, “…spread awareness about mala beads that inspire their wearers to live more peaceful intention based lives.” They have the most beautiful pieces for purchase attached to such a wonderful objective.  I’m in love with the Calm Mala, and think it would be a fantastic Valentine's gift...from my husband ;).  Fall in love with your favorite here: http://www.lovetinydevotions.com/ 

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 :)