Release expectation. One of the best things about yoga is that there are no goals. I know, this might sound like a crazy concept, but it’s true! There is actually no need to ever have a goal in your yoga practice. You can, if you find it beneficial, but the whole point of yoga is to be aware. Being aware can happen at any level, on any day, during any kind of practice. Being aware and being compassionate with yourself,…
Let me set the scene for you. You’re sitting in a comfortable cross-legged seat. Your eyes are closed. There’s some kind of nice-smelling essential oil burning, and soft music playing. You’ve had a long, hard day and you’re ready to move dat body. But before the movement begins, your yoga teacher encourages you to set an intention to carry with you for your yoga practice. Aaaand your mind goes blank. If you’ve ever had that experience in a yoga class,…
”Yoga is the perfect opportunity to be curious about who you are.”  ~ Jason Crandell “Yoga takes you into the present moment, the only place where life exists.” ~ Unknown ‎”Be at least as interested in what goes on inside you as what happens outside. If you get the inside right, the outside will fall into place.” ~ Eckhart Tolle “Yoga is not just repetition of a few postures — it is more about the exploration and discovery of the…
On the last day of 2017, I read that 2018 is the year of spiritual awakening and transformation for many people. It’s an exciting time and we want to help you through it, so below we have listed some of the most common signs that deep transformation and spiritual awakening is happening in your life. Your Belief Systems Have Evolved This has happened for me, especially through practicing yoga and meditation daily. Yoga and meditation can be huge stepping stones…
1. Have a different kind of NYE party. Instead of strapping on those sparkly shoes and braving the city on New Year’s Eve, why not take some time to slow down? Invite loved ones to your home, and start the New Year with intention. You could share something about this year that you’re grateful for, and something that you’re hopeful next year will bring. You could even do a group meditation/chanting, or even some yoga if your friends are into…
1 – Be Kind. In the yogic tradition, being kind (a.k.a. ahimsa) is the first of the cardinal virtues. Being kind is something that we often think we understand, but it can be easily missed in practice. For instance, being kind isn’t just about being nice to other people. It’s about being nice to ourselves. How often do we give ourselves a much harder time than we’d give others? This year, make a point to be loving and understanding in…
During this time of the year, I often have students asking me how they can keep up a practice over the holidays. Some might find it hard to get the motivation, while others might not have the time. Whatever your plans are for the holidays, there are a few helpful things to remember when keeping up your yoga. You don’t have to prepare. Sometimes “planning” for your own yoga practice means setting a space, getting a mat, putting on the…
Whether the end of the year for you means planning and preparing for celebrations, or if it’s simply a time to wind things down, it’s always good to check your to-do list and see where you can add mindful practices. Be present. If a lot of your energy is focused on purchasing presents, take time to Be Present too. Reach out. Whichever way you spend your winter months, it’s always a good time at the turning of the year to…
Hangovers happen to the best of us – even yogis! Tis the season, after all. We know that making it to the mat the morning after a few Christmas drinks can be a bit of a challenge. So here it is – Yoga for hangovers! Our top 5 yoga poses for helping soothe your hungover head, tummy, and soul! Child’s Pose If a headache is what ails you, this baby is for you. Bring your knees out to around the…
