Capricious Yogi

Hindsight is Gaining Perspective, Learning, and Growing. Lessons Learned in Teaching

2012-02-14T12:22:00.000-05:00

I used to think that in order to be a successful yoga teacher I had to teach packed, rockin' Vinyasa classes week after week. I thought that the more I could make people sweat, the more I was getting "it." Please note, this is not to say anything about people who teach rockin', sweaty Vinyasa classes...I love taking those classes and still love teaching them, but because of my experience, my personal feelings and measure have changed. This post is an attempt to share this experience with you.

About a year ago I finally had a chance to prove my worth and was offered a teaching gig in a prime time mid-week, evening spot at my studio. I had been subbing sweaty Vinyasa classes with much success since I started teaching, but never my own regular class. In hindsight and in a very limited way, sure I guess that's how you tell you made it, but now I see it much differently. What I realize now is that was my ego talking and the key to being a successful yoga teacher has less to do with how many people show up in class and more to do with how you serve the students that come with you to their mat.

You see, I started teaching this class as a necessity and even gave up another regularly packed class in order to teach it. At the time I felt strongly that I was making the right move and finally I'd have my chance to shine and share what I had to give with my fellow yogis in my own community. I was so eager, so willing to make it work, that I dove in without really feeling out the situation. Then...well people stopped coming and I got discouraged and it started to affect my classes and ultimately, I had to give it up. I realize now that they stopped coming not because of me, but because they were upset the other teacher was no longer there. However, at the time it felt really personal, like I couldn't teach at all. Some of them had even gone so far as to start petitions to have her back and boycott the studio, but what did that have to do with me? Nothing really, yet I still took it personal and it still hurt my feelings. All I wanted to do was teach and somehow that got lost in the mix.

Coffee Talk | Good Days, Bad Days and the Lessons We Learn from Both

2012-02-10T10:12:00.000-05:00

In the interest on honesty I have to admit that I've been a little challenged this week when it's come to some emotional subjects. I'd like to think the full moon on Tuesday had something to do with it, but I'm not sure that's entirely the case. I acknowledge that I am a sensitive person and as such I really work hard to temper my emotions. But this week, it was as if I could feel myself getting agitated and upset and knew the slippery slope ahead of me, but instead of walking away and taking a few extra deep breaths (because the deep breaths were certainly happening I just needed more) I stayed with the emotional upheaval...in a kind, compassionate way of course.

On the other hand, there were other situations this week where I was able to tap in to my breath, stay grounded and push forward with faith and optimism. When the daunting stories and negative self-talk started to bubble up, I quickly turned it around with kind, nurturing words rather than the battering onslaught of negativity that sometimes prevails. I'm happy with the progress there.

But then again, I'm happy with the progress in the first situation as well. Yes, the first is not ideal and certainly by now you would think I'd have a grip on certain emotional triggers, but you know what...here's a big secret...I'm human and not perfect and can't always expect myself to make the best choices or temper the right reaction. I can however, continue to work towards a faster "recovery time" and work on managing these situations one day at a time. In fact, I'm more proud of myself for going through that emotional and stressful situation and coming out on the other side with a little more clarity and learning something. I'm completely humbled by that experience, but won't allow me to beat up on me. This is part of the learning process and practice after all, isn't it?

What I'm trying to say is that no matter how long you practice, there will still be situations where you may not react in a way that is completely ideal and that's okay. However, the lesson you walk away with and that little extra bit of clarity that makes all of the difference. Have you ever found yourself saying "why does this keep happening to me?" Well, here's my thought on this...perhaps the same situations or patterns keep arising because we're not learning and growing from the situation at hand. These are our karmas after all. The next time you find yourself saying this, stop and try to see the situation in a different light and you may find your true Self moving you in another direction.

Onwards and upwards!

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | The Hardest Part of Yoga Practice is Letting Go

2012-02-07T13:27:00.000-05:00

“The moment I let go of it was the moment, I got more than I could handle, The moment I jumped off of it, Was the moment I touched down” -Thank You, Alanis Morrissette

What is the hardest part of yoga practice? Is it the asana or the breath? Is it the discipline to step on your mat every day? Is it your willingness to try something new? It may be any combination of these things, or it may be one thing. In my experience it is the simple act of letting go.

Let us not get confused here. By letting go, I don’t mean surrendering or giving up, but rather letting go of the stories we tell ourselves that we can’t do something, the expectations and judgments we experience as we move through our practice, and our egos that push us too hard. So often these judgments and harsh criticisms hold us back, keeping us from our true potential, hiding us from the brilliance within.

One of my yoga teachers says “the strongest yogi in the room is the one that takes child’s pose when they need it.” How true. How many times have you pushed yourself too hard in class only to be left feeling worse than when you walked in or maybe even pushing to injury? Have you been practicing for awhile with little change and feel frustrated? Yes, you show up every day, but you are still as stiff and tense as when you began. You can power through any Vinyasa, but your stress and anxiety levels are through the roof. Kudos to you for coming to class, but have you considered that it’s not the asana you need to master, but the act of listening and letting go instead.

Read the entire article here!

Let Love Shine this February

2012-02-01T19:36:00.000-05:00

I told the Universe today that I want to write a book.

I've been wanting to write a book for sometime, but I've never put it out to the Universe all loud and proud like that. We'll see what happens.

Now on to the real story. February is month wrought with inspiration and dare I say, way to much expectation. Yes, it's all about love this month, but I prefer to focus on self-love as well as appreciation for the loved ones in my life...all of them. Let's be honest, if you don't love yourself, how will anyone else ever be able come close enough to love you? But that's a different post...to come!

I'm still super excited about breaking out of my comfort zone. Even today I met a yogini friend for coffee to talk about her experience with the 500-hour training I'm considering. This is something that normally I would have scheduled then rescheduled time and time again letting my nerves get in the way, but this time I stuck with it and I'm happy I did. Next week I head to NYC with a dear friend to take class with Sri Dharma Mittra. And for what seems like small potatoes, but is really big potatoes given my experiences over the last three years, for once I'm not stressed about my health coverage or my taxes. Although I know this can change at any given moment, for now I'm enjoying the less-stressed approach to both of these situations.

So what's on the docket for this month? I'm so glad you asked.
Feb. 2: Groundhog Day. Will Punxsutawney Phil see his shadow or not? Stay tuned!
Feb. 7: Full Moon and maximum illumination. And if you're like me, some technical difficulties may occur. Take a breath. it will be okay!
Feb. 12: Lincoln's Birthday
Feb. 14: Valentine's Day
Feb. 15: Nirvana Day. Nirvana Day is the celebration of Buddha's death when he reached total Nirvana, at the age of 80.
Feb. 20: President's Day (U.S)
Feb. 21: Mardi Gras and the New Moon
Feb. 22: Ash Wednesday
Feb. 29: Leap Day/Year

February is also Black History Month and National Mend a Broken Heart Month which is supported by the My Stuff Bags Foundation a non-profit organization that provides new belongings, comfort and hope to thousands of children each year who must be rescued from abuse, neglect and abandonment across the United States.

Share love. Give love. Spread love. Receive Love. Be Love. And let the Love shine!

Getting Out of the Zone...the Comfort Zone

2012-01-26T15:19:00.000-05:00

I am thinking that 2012 could be the year where I finally break out of some very comfortable comfort zones. Already I'm making plans to deepen my practice and enhance my teaching skills with a 500-hour teacher training (research is underway!) and get myself out there as a writer and teacher even more than I already am. I am not one to make grandiose proclamations, but for once when I start to imagine where I'd like to be, instead of allowing doubt to talk me out of what I'm thinking, I'm using my practice to get me beyond my comfort zone.

But that doesn't come without gliding up against some very uncomfortable spaces for me. Innately, I'm a very shy and introverted person and networking, asking for advice and even saying "yes, I can do this" doesn't always come easy. Shocking right? Considering that I put myself out there time and time again with this blog, there are still areas where I feel I stick too close to home. I do have some divine moments when things all come in alignment, but I've had to work through some serious "stories" to get there.

The shift for me has occurred because I no longer believe I can do the things I want to do and serve the way I need to serve if I don't step outside of myself, or my comfort zone, a bit. That is not to say that I'm not paying attention to who I am and where I am, in fact, it's the exact opposite. I am aware of the discomfort that arises when I start something new, but I also know what goodness lies on the other side if I just try. For example, sometimes when I go to a new studio or try a new teacher for the first time I get a little nervous and it takes a lot of self-talk and encouragement for me to go. When I get there and I start to get unsure, I tap in to my experience to remind me that I've done this before and everything will be okay. In the end I recognize that the feelings are temporary and if I can get myself in the new situation, relax and stay present, I'm bound to have a good time.

As this is a blog about yoga, one can also relate this thinking to their asana practice and going a little deeper in a pose. When I'm practicing, I tap into my breath to guide me to my edge. I recognize where the discomfort arises and pay attention to the "chatter and mindstuff." Am I really pushing too hard or is that my little self telling me to back off? I've surprised myself time and time again during by simply holding a pose one breath longer than I expected or giving the next variation (e.g. arm balance or bind) a try and seeing, much to my astonishment, that I can go there. Playing with this edge, I can safely push myself beyond my limits and go even further and deeper than I ever imagined.

A friend and fellow yogi shared this graphic the other day and it completely hits the nail on the head.

You see, if I stay where I'm at physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, I'll still progress and continue to learn, but will I ever feel like I gave my thirst satisfactory quenching? It's when I start to push the edges of my comfort zone and dare I say, step outside of that zone, that the things I dream of happening actually begin to evolve. What I have found is that gliding up on the edge of discomfort and learning how to safely proceed forward allows you and your practice to open up in a whole new, magical way.

Do you think you stick to your comfort zone too much? How do you push yourself beyond these boundaries? In what ways do you find your yoga practice helps you to go beyond these limits?

My Guest Post @ Heal Now and Forever | Five Benefits of a Yoga Practice

2012-01-19T08:52:00.000-05:00

“Practice and all is coming.” –Sri K. Patthabi Jois

When Jodi asked me to write an article about the benefits of yoga, I thought…”sure, that’s easy, no problem!” But as I started to consider what I wanted to say, I found myself flooded with reasons why someone should begin a yoga practice—so much so that I could go on for days! From the numerous health benefits associated with the physical practice (asana) and breathing exercises (pranayama), to the mental and spiritual boost you receive from self-study (svadhyaya) and meditation (dhyana), I have found that practicing yoga is the most comprehensive system for overall body, mind and spiritual health. The really glorious thing about the yoga practice is that there are so many styles, traditions, and spaces offering yoga today, that anyone can find the right practice for them.

My own practice started as a way to fine tune my acting chops. While studying at school, I found that the physical practice allowed me to be so present in my body that I could be “in the moment” with any character thus making my performance more believable. Additionally, my yoga practice has helped me to create awareness around my own personal health, giving me the tools I need to manage my ulcerative colitis, a condition I have lived with since the age of 14. Not to mention the numerous life events I have experienced including job changes, divorce, loss of a parent, financial ups and downs, and all various other growing up tidbits. Through it all, my practice has been the constant keeping me grounded and stable as I weather the sometimes turbulent seas of life.

So what are the benefits of yoga? Here are my top five reasons to start a yoga practice today.

Let’s Get Physical

A no-brainer. Whether you take super slow and restorative approach to your practice or you choose to rev it up with a vigorous Vinyasa, just getting the body to move is a good thing. As a society, we are so stuck…in front of our computers and TVs, in our cars commuting to work, in our relationships to each other and to ourselves, and in our minds. Our bodies were not designed to sit around all day. Rather, they were made for moving and shaking! Getting up and out allows your body to rejuvenate itself naturally, helping to relieve tension and release feel good hormones like endorphins, which ultimately leaves you happy and feeling good.

Read the rest of the article here

Are you Practicing Your Yoga?

2012-01-18T21:07:00.000-05:00

My head is spinning. Is yours? Seems to me there's a lot of noise these days in the yoga world over, I dunno, just about everything. From not enough care in class, to puffed up egos, to objectifying women, and questioning the merits of teachers, the list goes on and on. For the past few weeks, it seems like there's something new every day. Personally, I think there's way too much talk and not enough practice.

I really cannot understand what all the big deal is about. It's not like the practice of yoga has not been on the rise for a while now. It's not like it just came out of the blue and smacked us all on the ass and asked us to take notice. And we all know that popular movements often take the heat of scrutiny. Seems like people don't know where to funnel their frustration, so their turning it on yoga.

Most of the articles I've read lately are completely one-sided and unless you've got the balls to stand up for yourself and do so, much like Glenn Black, David Regelin and Briohny Kate-Smyth via Kathryn Buding, you are bound to get lost in the fold. [Read the articles above if you have no idea of what I'm talking about or need a refresher].

What surprises me most is how easily the yoga community is ready to judge others based on what they read, rather than what they experience. It begs the question, are you practicing your yoga at all?

Through the practice of yoga we learn to be more compassionate and less judgmental of others. If you've taken the time to read any of this banter, then you'd see that a good portion of what anyone is writing is completely harsh, bashing, and one-sided. Add in all of the personal comments and it just feels gross. Since when do we criticize others for their personal reasons for coming to class? Is it not enough that people want to move, breath and feel good? Why can't that be reason enough? Do you remember why you stepped on your mat the first time you came to class or did you forget? Shouldn't good teachers take an experience, whether it is ego-centric or not, and take it a little deeper so that students start to understand how loving and appreciating themselves can help them become more loving and and appreciative towards others? I would hope so at least.
Read more »

Advice from a Tree | Birthday Fun and Good Words to Live By

2012-01-17T08:18:00.000-05:00

I've spent the last week or so celebrating my birthday. It's been great catching up with friends and family. I received this birthday card and had to share. Given my love of trees, it was most fitting.

Simple but true and all good words to live by. I couldn't have said it better myself. My favorite line? I like them all, but if I had to choose it would be between Be content with your natural beauty and Enjoy the view!

Which of these, if any, resonate with you? When you practice tree pose, how do you relate that pose to your own personal experiences?

Guest Post | Scared=Sacred by Jodi Lobozzo Aman

2012-01-05T09:25:00.000-05:00

“In those times when I am surrounded by fear, my mind is backwards, inside out and upside down. I look outside myself for light because the clouds inside me block my view. All I see is darkness and fret and vulnerability in there. I feel scared down to the core of my being- a dread that is so materialized that I can feel it coursing through my blood. Panic right into the core of my being.”

Have you ever been scared? I have, and it feels just like the quote above. Luckily, I don’t trust this vision or this feeling, as somehow I know that it is not the truth. Fear, anxiety, worries are never true, but just an experience (albeit an intense and difficult experience). It is only because I understand the falseness of fear, that I can look for another’s perception and guidance to help me through. Reaching out for support is an act of self determination, not an act of weakness.

When I am scared, there is nothing like reassurance to keep me tethered to a sense of calm. I look for it in the faces of my loved ones, in their voices, and gestures. I hear it in the words of poets and inspirational writers. I reach for the light in their response, and that light reminds me who I am and that all of it will be OK. I thank God for their wisdom, unending support, and steady confidence in me.

When we are scared, we are looking for the sacred. I find it interesting that they two have the same letters: sacred and scared. Sacred comes from the Latin word “sacrum” meaning “of the gods” or “in the gods’ power.” Sacred is often used to describe something that is precious to us, that which we give great value to. I have come to know it as not only that which we love, but as love itself.

When we are afraid, we fear losing something sacred to us, basically fearing loss of love. Some people say that there is only two emotions love and fear: fear is the absence of love and love is the absence of fear. Scared and sacred are two sides of a coin. One can be understood through the other. The good news is that we are given these two options and when that coin is tossed in the air, we can interact with it and help it land with the sacred on top.

Read more »

January...Wintry Days and Fresh Beginnings

2012-01-03T17:47:00.000-05:00

I'd rather not start off 2012 talking about new beginnings and resolutions. There's been a lot of that going on and I think by now we all have our intentions set and I hope are making plans to pursue them. I did state my own intentions in my very last post of 2011 and if you're interested to see my intentions, you can read them here. Likewise, I'm always interested in hearing what others might be working on, so please feel free to share!

With that being said, I think it's time we move on to the month ahead. I, for one, am very excited. Not only is January a great opportunity to refine some misalignments of last year, it's also my birthday month and generally speaking, I find January to be a very productive time for me. Plans are in the works and I am hopeful to finally make headway on some very personal aspirations of mine.

I did a little digging (love reading Nam Hari via 3HO.org) and numerologically speaking, January is just the month to lay the foundation for new plans. The Universe is ripe with creative energy, among other things, and with 2012 being a major year for change (2+0+1+2=5; 5 is the number of change) it's time we lay down our hesitations and go forth with open hearts to create the lives we wish to live. Stay grounded with your breath and practice and you'll be sure to weather anything that may come your way this year.

January dates to note
Jan 1: New Year's (did you set your intentions?)
Jan. 9: Full Moon
Jan. 16: MLK Day
Jan. 23: New Moon and Chinese New Year--the year of the Water Dragon. Also, Mars also goes retrograde until April 14 on this day. While this is a great time to detox, diet and stick to your New Year's resolutions, it's also a time of major slow downs, so those pet projects of yours might not get the attention they need. Check out Gahl Sasson or Molly's Astrology for more details.

Also, did you know that January is National Thank You Month? Why not send a little 'thank you' note to those in your life that mean the most.

What are you most looking forward to this month?

Photo by sBinCh

Reflection and Intention for the New Year

2011-12-31T07:13:00.000-05:00

It's the last day of 2011 and after much reflection, I'm happy to see this year come to a close. Although there have been plenty of wonderful times, gifts, and experiences, this year has been uber-challenging for me on so many other levels that I'm looking forward to the new year. I guess you could say the Universe was just making sure I was ready for the Age of Aquarius. Ha! (which then makes me think of this video).

As I've reflected on the past year, what I notice most is incredible growth. This year, I have been stretched farther than I ever imagined. The Rachel that kicked of 2011 seems much different than the Rachel that sits here writing this post. I was sure that 2011 would be my year and that amazing things would cosmically align and I would be well on my way to much greener pastures, mostly professionally. In some ways, that's very true, but in others, it just wasn't. And you know what? That's okay. Nothing great was ever gleaned from an easy road. While I wish it had been a little less bumpy at times, I know I'm doing the work I need to do to work through my karmas. Perhaps the biggest lesson learned was that despite where I think I should be, I'm actually already perfectly situated right where I need to be.

What are some of my intentions for 2012?

I intend to be kinder to myself. I'm really tough on myself, and sometimes others too. I intend to work to let this pattern go.
I intend to practice, write, and teach as much as I can. In 2011 I found my purpose, now it's time to live it. Coupled with this is my desire to sing again and connect with music through my practice.
I intend to break out of my comfort zone and try new experiences and have more fun.
I intend to let love in and truly believe that I deserve it.
I intend to be honest and clear with my words and interactions and boundaries. Saying "no" to things is okay.
I intend to listen more deeply and continue my healing process.
I intend to not take things so personally.

As a parting gift for 2011, I would like to share one of my most favorite songs from this year discovered at Off the Mat training this March.

Enter One-Sol Seppy

After a storm
I wanna let go
Of the things that I’ve done
Without any worry
I wanna come home
Into the light
Into the unknown
I want to be shameless
Like the sun
Moving into you
Enter light

What are your intentions for 2012?

Roots, Recognition and Release

2011-12-30T10:21:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel like I'm in continuous self-help mode. The past few weeks have been rough as I make my through my first holiday season without my mom. I've come face-to-face with doubt, negative self-talk and ludicrous stories from years past that I had thought I worked through, but alas, they are still there...lingering.

I wish I could say that the holiday season has been filled with lots of laughter and joy, and in some ways it has, but to be very honest here, my heart hurts. I know it will get easier in time and I also hear the first holiday season is the hardest, but I had not imagined it being like this. I'm taking it one day at a time, allowing myself to feel every emotion as it swells up inside of me, sometimes almost choking me, and work through each passing wave with deep intention on my breath. Much like my friend Holly from The Urban Yoga Den, I recognize that these emotions do not define me. I am not my story. Rather, they are descriptive of where I am, right now, on my journey through life. Connecting through my practice to an inner light and joy, understanding that I am a happy person despite these feelings, helps me to proceed ahead.

The hardest day so far was Christmas Eve. I was preparing to teach, as I have done for the last few years on this day, and started going through some old playlists. As I pulled up my playlist from last year I found myself transported back to this same time, same place last year as I prepared to teach this same class. I recalled sitting in front of the class, preparing to speak and this random thought that passed through my mind--a premonition that last year was the last Christmas Eve my mom would be with us. I remember getting emotional as I was speaking, but at that time, I shook it off as some random dramatic thought. Pushing it aside, getting on with class, moving on to the next thing, I let it go.
Read more »

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | An Early Morning Respite: Personal Practice Begins with the Breath

2011-12-23T17:11:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning and couldn’t sleep. Giving up on going back to sleep, I made my way downstairs, careful not to wake our new puppy and my fiancé. I got myself a glass of water, feeling parched from the night’s rest. I took a drink and then I took a deep breath.

I made my way to the living room and sat down in front our large picture window. It was still dark outside, but the light was starting to peek through the trees. I sat for a moment and stared out of the window and then I began to move and stretch. I started with a nice long Balasana (Child’s Pose), found my way into some yummy cat-cow stretches and then worked my neck and shoulders. Next, I moved into gentle twists, forward folds and stretches for my back. Finally, I found myself in my seat, or Sukhasana. Sitting upright, spine lengthened, crown of the head lifting towards the sky, palms resting easy on my thighs, I watched the breath go in and out through my nose and consciously worked to quiet the mind. After a while, I broke my meditation and came on to my back, gazing out of the window again. I studied the way the trees looked against the morning sky and took note as the wind blew through their branches. I considered what I needed to do for the day, but more than that, I considered not doing anything for a little while longer. Finally, when I felt it was time, I got up and started my day.

Read the entire article here!

Nursing My Yoga Hangover: When a Kick-Ass Class Leaves You Feeling Less Than 100%

2011-12-13T15:12:00.000-05:00

I woke up today to what I like to call a yoga hangover. It feels a little taboo to put it that way, but it's true. As I got out of bed today, my body felt achy, my stomach felt queasy and I felt really foggy moving through my morning routine. It definitely took more time than usual to get into the flow of my day.

How does one get a "yoga hangover" you ask?

For the first time in a long time, I attended one of my favorite Vinyasa classes last night. Most Mondays my schedule does not allow for such a treat, but yesterday was different. My schedule changed and low and behold I was able to make it to class. Class was challenging, yet fun. I recall that about halfway through I thought, "wow, either I'm out of shape or some stuff is really moving here." The queasiness started mid-flow. Listening to my body I could tell the toxins were releasing. It wasn't pleasant, but I kept moving and breathing and working with the asana.

Asana is designed to build your internal fire, or tapas, in order to burn off the impurities and toxins that build up in the body. Whether that's from too much stress, overeating or drinking too much, or in my case, a new regiment of medicines to get my health back on track (ironic, eh?), toxins build up in the body and our asana practice works to break them down and flush them out. Getting rid of toxins helps to clear the body of all the rubbish we put in it (knowingly or not) so that our prana (life force) can move more freely within us. In the end, the clearing out of toxins helps us live healthier, stronger, happier lives.
Read more »

Fun E-book: Santa's Christmas Routine from SangaYoga

2011-12-13T08:22:00.000-05:00

Here's a fun little e-book to share with your family this year. It's Santa's Christmas Routine by SangaYoga.

Enjoy and do a little sun salutation with Santa why don't you!

Step Away From the Machine! A Weekend Off Never Felt So Good.

2011-12-12T14:00:00.000-05:00

I took the opportunity to step away from my computer this weekend. I think I'll do it more often and might I suggest, you do too? Instead of furiously trying to keep up with emails and self-imposed schedules, I spent time with my fiance and new puppy decorating for the holidays and enjoying a weekend "off." If you've been following my blog, then you know that the last six months or so have been wrought with many ups and downs, mostly tied to my mom's health and passing. We've been all over the place tending to family matters and keeping up with hectic work schedules and there have been times when I've definitely neglected to take care of myself. It's no wonder that this weekend's respite was such a welcome change.

our new puppy Riley!

I will admit that it was hard at first to settle in to not doing anything structured. Other than teaching my Saturday yoga class, I was completely on my own. It was liberating and to be honest, exactly what I needed.

I think it gets harder as we get older to manage all that is going on in our lives. There seems to be more we feel like we have to do or get done. But aren't we the ones that put those "things" in our lives to begin with? And I don't know about you, but it seems it's more difficult to catch up with people than ever before. Maybe it's because time is moving at a faster pace as Nam Hari mentions here, or maybe, just maybe, we're becoming the victims of our own efficiency. I'd like to believe it's a little bit of both.

My to-do list is long. I have not yet started my holiday shopping, although I have a list of items I wish to purchase. I have 101 things I'd like to accomplish for Capricious Yogi by the end of the year, including getting some videos online. Also, I'm a little embarrassed to say that for someone with an event planning background like me, my wedding is seriously unplanned. Finally, I am busy balancing my new clients needs with my own schedule and yes, I'm honing my personal practice. With all that down in front of me, you'd think I'd be concerned, but I'm not. I know that everything that will get done in time and taking a few extra hours on the weekend to relax is more important right now.
Read more »

Music Revew: Sunrise Music by Neil Middleton

2011-12-08T08:22:00.000-05:00

I really like this album Sunrise Music by Neil Middleton. I play it in class. I play it during my own practice. I've played it while driving stuck in crazy traffic and I've played it while relaxing and preparing dinner. It's great!

I'm wouldn't classify myself as an expert on music, but I know what I like and I find this album to be the perfect accompaniment to any yoga practice. The rhythms are peaceful and soothing and the harmonies are succinct. If you're looking for music to add to your library, then I suggest you check it out.

Neil is a classically trained musician based in Toronto, who also plays in his own rock band. He says "I decided to tackle the yoga music project after I started getting more and more into yoga. I practice at home with my girlfriend who is about to start teacher training. We use the music to help us transcend the city sounds and focus in on our personal practice."

Right on Neil. Thanks for your hard work, inspiration, creativity, and clarity. My practice is that much more elevated because of you!

Listen to a sample track or buy the album here!

What to Do With Down Time?

2011-12-07T14:50:00.000-05:00

I'm slowly getting used to the idea that there are now times during the middle of the day when I don't have anything I need to be doing. Odd concept, right? It struck me today as I waited to hear back from two clients that I my wait time is now my own time. At first I wasn't quite sure what to do. Having a strong work ethic and wanting to complete my tasks I frantically made lists, checked emails, and researched, but until I hear back, there's not much I can do.

So, what do I do in the meantime?

My fiance, as clever as always, suggested I work on my blog. No brainer, right? After all it is my most favorite form of work and aren't I aiming to make it more sustainable? All very true, but when faced with a few hours of time for it, I was a little stuck. What was I going to work on or write about? What project should I start with?

Trust me, I'm not complaining. It's just that it's been so long since I've actually had some time to spend on the projects I enjoy or take an extra yoga class or anything of the like, that I still feel a little guilty when I do. I attribute this to my transition and getting used to a varied schedule while creating boundaries around the work I'm doing. After all, the whole point of the upheaval was in order to have more time to do the things I enjoy rather than being tied to work that was not satisfying at all. It's liberating and frightening all at the same time, but I suppose given some time and a little practice it will start to feel more normal.

What is your favorite way to spend unexpected free time in your schedule? How do you stay motivated by the work you are currently doing? How do you create boundaries between your work and personal life?

Photo by Kara Allyson

I Really Love My....Monthly Access Pass to Gaiam TV

2011-12-06T08:20:00.000-05:00

Raise your hand if you've ever been utterly frustrated by the gobs of boring, nonsensical programming that clutters our airwaves. And how many channels do we really need in order to find one good thing on TV? Don't get me wrong, I will admit that there are plenty of times when I enjoy nothing more than vegging out and watching some crazy show on TLC or HGTV, but since I only watch a handful of these channels, I find myself asking, is it really worth the cost? It's no wonder that more and more of my friends are signing up for HuluPlus and AppleTV. With these services, you more directly get what you're looking for.

So I was intrigued when I was contacted by Gaiam to check out their new product, Gaiam TV. For only $9.95 a month, you can stream hundreds of fitness, wellness, philosophy, and spirituality based programs. Given my recent departure from NetFlix, it seems like a no-brainer. The site is easy to navigate and they are always adding something new. Check out videos from Deepak Chopra, Seane Corn, Kathryn Buding, Rodney Yee and many more. Whether you have just 10 minutes or a full hour in your day to spare, there's an option for you. I like checking out yoga documentaries that I can't find elsewhere, or if I'm traveling, having access to fitness programs that I can try in the comfort of my hotel room. You can even download programs to your favorite mobile device!

A perfect holiday gift for health and wellness fan in your life, or even for yourself. You certainly don't have to take my word for it. Try the 10-day free trial and see for yourself!

December: A Month for Reflection and Relaxation

2011-12-02T06:34:00.000-05:00

I don't really have much to say about the month of December (or the craziness of the last few weeks and transition) other than it's the perfect time to slow down. Yep, that's right. Although we may seem otherwise inclined to pack in our schedules, rush from store to store picking the perfect presents, or set up outings and dates with friends, this month be better served by taking it down and a notch and restoring your Self.

Mercury is retrograde...again...and although this may strike fear into the heart's of some, it's really more an opportunity to pay particular attention to how you are communicating. Anything "re" is good, so reflect, relax, reconnect, rejuvenate in any way that you can (might I also add re-read everything and double spell check!). When this planet is moving backwards in the zodiac it means our communication is a little off-kilter. Bring your attention to your meditation and restorative practice, journal to reflect on the year past, and slow it down when it comes to frenetic pace of the holiday season.

Let's just say there's a reason that Mercury always seems to go retrograde this time of year...we need to slow down and take this time to reflect and reevaluate our needs as we move forward into 2012.

December dates to note
December 1: World Aids Day
December 7: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
December 8: Bodhi Day
December 10: Full Moon and Human Rights Day
December 21: Hanukkah and Winter Solstice
December 24: New Moon: Set intentions of the month ahead and start planning New Year's Resolutions
December 25: Christmas
December 26: Kwanzaa begins
December 31: New Year's Eve

Many happy blessings to you and yours this holiday season!

Thanksgiving Quotes to Share Today and Every Day

2011-11-24T08:01:00.001-05:00

I pulled a full quotes in preparation for Thanksgiving Day festivities at my future in-law's house and wanted to share my favorites and hope you'll share yours too. Whether you're spending today with friends, family, or faraway from home, take time to give thanks and express gratitude for all that you have, big or small. If you haven't started a gratitude practice, why not start today and fill up on the abundance all around you? It's amazing what a little gratitude can do!

"Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action." ~W.J. Cameron

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice."

~Meister Eckhart

"Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow." ~Edward Sandford Martin

He who thanks but with the lips
Thanks but in part;
The full, the true Thanksgiving
Comes from the heart.
~J.A. Shedd

"The unthankful heart... discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings!"

~Henry Ward Beecher

"Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds."

~Theodore Roosevelt

"To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven."

~Johannes A. Gaertner

"A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues."

~Cicero

"Nothing is more honorable than a grateful heart."

~Seneca

"Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving."

~W.T. Purkiser

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

What are your favorite Thanksgiving Day quotes? What are you grateful for today?

photo by Francis Mariani

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Gratitude Practice: Cut the Stuffing Out & Let Life Overflow

2011-11-21T19:37:00.000-05:00

“Let the thankful heart sweep through the day.” –Henry Ward Beecher

I really love this photo. For me it is the perfect representation of the practice of gratitude. If you can imagine your Self as this bowl, or sacred vessel, then you can visualize filling it up with sentiments of gratitude until your bowl is overflowing. In this way, you’re able to experience the abundance of life all around you.

I recently posted about the overwhelming daily messages of need more, want more in our society. Yoga practice gives us the tools to fill up on all the good stuff the universe has to offer and by so doing, we become more present, aware, and enriched. Filling up is more than just an exercise. When done consistently it becomes a way of life.

Look at this picture and see the bowl as your Self. As it is right now, it’s an empty vessel. But when you get to the bottom of it, it asks “what are you grateful for?”...

Read the full article here!

Navigating Transition with Patience and Acceptance

2011-11-19T08:17:00.000-05:00

A week has gone by since I took a big leap to transition from my toxic work environment to more satisfying work. Overall I'd say the experience has been pretty good, but as always, there have been a few hiccups along the way. Having been in this position before, I was prepared for last minute changes, knowing that everything sounds good in theory, but ideas, plans, even people can change once you really get down into the nitty gritty. I prepared myself for this weeks ago, releasing any grandiose expectations of what I thought my ideal day would be like and bracing for the nuances that would inevitably pop up. I think this practice has served me well and I'm finding that each hiccup, rather than being a nuisance, is a new layer in which I have to navigate. It's been a wonderful practice.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to give this all a try. The hardest part about this transition is going from the nine to five business hours to coordinating my own days. Whereas before, someone else was creating the structure in my day, now I'm the one making my day-to-day work. In some ways it's completely liberating, in other ways, it's completely overwhelming and yes, even some doubt started to creep in this week. However, I keep reminding myself that it's all a part of the transition and that in a few weeks time I will find my groove. It will happen. I just need to be patient and accepting of what comes my way.

new office view!

I don't want to lose sight of why I made this change--which is to teach and write more! This week as I started work with one new company and caught up with projects from another, I found myself inwardly saying, "hey wait! I've got a blog to write and manage, people to get back to, and ideas to share for Capricious Yogi." While all of this is important, let's be realistic, it's also necessary for me to get acquainted with my new responsibilities as I have bills to pay and health care coverage to maintain. This week my mantra has been "I'm figuring this out" and it's helped. Again, the practice of patience and acceptance has been crucial for me during this period.

So that's where I'm at. This weekend I plan to do a little reshuffle on my calendar, catch up on some personal projects and get organized for the week ahead. Given that Thanksgiving is around the corner and my dad is coming to visit (yay!), I'm not sure how much I'll actually get done, but it is my goal to do what I can to the best of my ability. That in and of itself is it's own practice, no? As long as I stay grounded and allow myself to ease into this process, rather than tearing through head first, I'm already ahead of the game. That's right, I'm going to allow myself to have a little fun and enjoy the process rather than getting all stressed out by it. Otherwise, what's the point of all of the change and upheaval if I can't find enjoy the work I'm doing?

Have you ever made a change and thought you've bitten off more than you chew? How do you stay grounded through transitions?

Photo by AlicePopkorn

I Really Love My...Energy Charm from Energy Muse

2011-11-14T07:27:00.000-05:00

health energy charm

As my practice progresses, my interests continue to grow. One area that I'm always keen to learn more about is crystal energy healing. So when Energy Muse contacted me to test run their energy charms, I jumped on the chance. Not only are their pieces fashionable, but they make crystal energy accessible. The pieces are affordable and can be seen being worn by many top-notch celebrities. Charms are available for Health, Wealth, Love, and Protection. Just in time for the holidays, I asked the makers of these awesome little gifts a few questions so I could learn more about the charms and their uses. Here's what they had to say.

****

How did Energy Muse come to be?

It started with one piece, Prosperity and the partnership of two long time best friends, Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro.

Heather was a Feng Shui specialist that decided to explore her creative design side. She produced a necklace she named Prosperity, then gave one to ten of her friends and asked them to come back with news of what they experienced after setting their intention and wearing for the certain amount of days she specified. With nothing but positive and outstanding reports, that necklace became the staple item to prompt the start of Energy Muse Jewelry. Heather then joined forces with Timmi and they started spreading the word to their friends, selling jewelry out of their cars, and creating a buzz in Hollywood due to the powerful results. Today, Energy Muse is sold worldwide inspiring many different cultures.

What are energy charms and how do they work?

Energy charms are a smaller version of the jewelry that you can carry around with you everywhere. It’s a cute accessory for your purse, key chain, etc. They hold the same energy due to stones and for three of them, the Ancient Chinese coin, so once you receive you should set an intention and keep close to you for 10 days straight and longer for stronger results. They are also put in our Sacred Room for 48 hours before put in stock, just as our jewelry is.

What are some benefits of wearing Energy Muse charms?

Apart from receiving compliments, as mentioned above they hold energy. So the benefits would be attracting what you intend them to surrounding the concepts of Love, Health, Wealth and Protection.
Read more »

Happy 11.11.11 and Veterans Day!

2011-11-11T11:52:00.000-05:00

In case you hadn't noticed, today is 11.11.11 and what some believe to be the beginning of the Aquarian Age! Whether you believe this to be true or not, you can't possibly deny the once in a lifetime chance to experience this day for what it could be.

Today is believed to mark a change in human awareness, making now the perfect time to step out and take part in your life's true happiness. Now, more than ever, you'll have the opportunity to be aligned and refined and move forward with clarity, while clearing past karmic stains.

Whatever you believe, and whatever you do today, celebrate the oneness we all share! Instead of seeing your neighbor as separate, try to see them as one of the same whole--a higher consciousness aimed at uplifting us all as we come together as one community.

I would be remiss not to mention that today is also Veterans Day. Many thanks, love and support to all of the veterans who serve and do what you do!

photo by Foto_di_Signorina

Now its Time to Say Goodbye...Moving Onwards and Upwards Towards True Purpose

2011-11-10T15:17:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was my last day of work.

I left my office with a lot of mixed feelings. I'm really going to miss some of my colleagues, but am happy to be done with the work and projects I was involved in. Given the chilly farewell I received from my boss, I think it's safe to say I made the right decision. Onwards and upwards!

If you've been following my blog at all, you know that I've been struggling with what to do about my work situation for some time. What started out as a need for health insurance and steady pay, slowly became a major stressor in my life, impacting my relationships and most of all my health. Not acceptable. It is our right as humans and spiritual beings to be happy and allowing my health to succumb to the toxic environment I found myself in, was not worth it to me. Forget all of the other things I've had to deal with this past year or so, the job has been gnawing away at my insides for way too long. So I decided to make a change.
Read more »

The Life's Hardest Questions Project via Tiny Buddha

2011-11-04T13:31:00.000-04:00

sample photo with Lori

Have you seen this new project from Tiny Buddha? If not, check it out!

Lori Deschene, founder of Tiny Buddha, is working on a new book and inviting everyone to be a part of the Life's Hardest Questions Project as she prepares for the launch.

The premise is simple. There are questions that are easy to answer, with simple straightforward answers. Like, helping out a friend or family member or going the extra mile at work. However, there are other times when we are faced with more difficult questions. What do we do with those questions? How do we work through them? What do those questions look like?

Lori writes:
"I spent years isolating myself, dwelling on everyone and everything that hurt me, feeling like a victim and wondering, “Why me?” I felt worthless, and my life felt meaningless. I answered every challenging question with an equally difficult and disempowering one.

I was too busy bemoaning the challenges of my past to recognize and create possibilities in the present.

Ultimately, we have two choices in life: obsess about everything we don’t know, creating a sense of helplessness; or focus on what we’ve learned and what we can do now to live the lives we want to live."

In preparation for the launch on December 8th of her new book Tiny Buddha: Simple Wisdom for Life’s Hardest Questions, Lori is asking us all to come together to share your toughest life question.

Here's how the Life’s Hardest Questions Project works:

The goal is to create a gallery of photos, each featuring a challenging question that impacts how we live our lives. Your question might be about love, happiness, forgiveness, meaning, money, social change, religion, politics—anything that you’ve struggled to answer.

There are no rules for the photo, except that you must be in it, and your question cannot include profanity.

You can feature your question in any way. You could write it on a piece of paper and hold it, or you could do something more creative, like:

    * Write it on a chalkboard
    * Use a stick to draw it in the sand at the beach
    * Paint it on a canvas
    * Write it on an Etch A Sketch

What matters is that you communicate your question, but creativity is a good thing!

To submit your photo:

    * Send a JPG to questionphoto@tinybuddha.com.
    * Write “Question Photo” in the subject line.

Check out her site for inspiration and more details! I plan to work on my submission this weekend and will be sharing here. I would love to see what everyone comes up with, so please post!

November Flow | Riding the Energy of a New Age and Making Time for Gratitude Practice

2011-11-01T19:08:00.000-04:00

So it seems to me that November already has certain kind of electricity about it, don't you think? Perhaps my own transitions are painting it that way for me right now, but I really can't help but feel resplendent in the joys of autumnal abundance.

What's so great? Well, for starters we're kicking off the Age of Aquarius on 11-11-11, effectively heralding in a new era filled with increased spirituality and harmony amongst people and a chance to release past karmas. For more on that subject, check out Nam Hari Kaur's explanation. There's LOTS of information out there, but I like her flow best. Supposing that sort of thing doesn't interest you, how about the fact that it's near time for some great holidays, including Thanksgiving, making this month key in the practice of gratitude.

Personally, I can't think of a better time of year to put my plans and practice into action. I just hope I can find enough time!

November Dates
Nov. 1: All Saints Day
Nov. 1-2: Day of the Dead celebrated
Nov. 1: World Vegan Day
Nov. 6: Daylight Savings Time Ends (US & CAN)
Nov. 10: Full Moon
Nov. 11: Veterans Day and Age of Aquarius
Nov. 15: 10th I Love to Write Day
Nov. 24: Thanksgiving (U.S.)
Nov. 24-Dec. 13: Mercury Retrograde. Take it slow and refocus communication.
Nov. 25: New Moon (Solar Eclipse)

What are you most grateful for this month? What plans are you most looking forward to? How do you intend on incorporating your yoga practice with the energy of the Aquarian Age?

Photo by amirjina

Taking a Leap of Faith | Trusting Your Intuition and True Heart's Desire

2011-10-28T07:01:00.000-04:00

I'm completely living this saying right now! Over the past few weeks, and months really, I've taken time to reevaluate what it is I really want to do with my life and decided that it didn't include staying at my current job any longer. I'm taking a huge leap of faith and aligning my career path with my purpose: to teach, to write, to share and to communicate. That's right. I turned in my two weeks notice and have lined up some exhilarating opportunities that I believe will fill me up!

I've been working on manifesting some major changes in my career for some time, but had to put it all on the back burner as I dealt with my family's recent state of emergency this summer. That's not to say that I've totally moved on from the loss of my mother and grandmother (definitely not), but now there is some closure in that arena and voila, things are finally happening! I acknowledge that it will take some time to get my ideas and work all flowing together, so I've added a little extra patience to my practice and overall, complete trust in whatever is to come.

A friend shared this write up from the DailyOm today and it was almost too fitting:

"Many people, in heeding the guidance of their souls, find themselves contemplating goals that seem outrageous or unattainable. In the mind’s eye, these individuals stand at the edge of a precipice and look out over the abyss at the fruit of their ambition. Some resist the urge to jump, paralyzed by the gap between their current circumstances and the life of their dreams. Others make a leap of faith into the unknown, unsure of what they will encounter but certain that they will gain more in their attempts than they would bowing to self-protective instincts. This leap can be exceedingly difficult for individuals with control issues because the act of embracing uncertainty requires them to trust that surrender will net them the rewards they seek. Yet when you make a leap of faith, believing without a doubt that you will land safely on the other side, you can accomplish almost anything you set out to do."

Read the rest of this very inspirational article here!

That's just it really. I've never been the kind of person that finds comfort in just getting by and settling with the status quo (much to my friends and family's chagrin). Although very cautious, my soul does not sit merrily when I'm trudging along as another cog in the wheel. Time and time again I've tried this route and all that comes of it is major discontent. In order for me to thrive I must create, relate, inspire, educate, and learn. I yearn to do work that lights me up inside and so, I'm taking a major leap of faith in order to make that happen. At times it may be hard and yeah, even a little scary, but I'm happy to take that over my current situation. I believe there is more life out there, just waiting for us, and if we're ready to trust what the Universe has in store, it's ready to deliver!

Are you on a precipice of your own? What lights you up inside and gets you really going? Are you living to your fullest potential and if not, what would it take to get you there?

Let me know how I can help you!

Love to Teach Yoga? Scholarships Available!

2011-10-25T19:04:00.000-04:00

If you teach yoga or have even explored the option, then you know that yoga teacher training can be expensive. But now, the folks at Yoga Teacher Guide have put together a scholarship for all potential yogi trainees. Enter to win free teacher training from over 21 teachers and schools that include Shiva Rea, Rod Stryker, Rolf Gates, Doug Swenson, Amazing Yoga, Yandara Yoga, Agama Yoga, Shakti Spirit, and many others. These programs are all over the US, Mexico, Costa Rica, Thailand, India, Spain and more.

Enter between now and November 18 to have your tuition completely paid for! All you need to do is choose which program you would like to apply to, submit a 500 word essay detailing your desire and inspiration to become a yoga teacher, and then, get people to vote for your entry. It's that easy! The site has lots of great information and is easy to navigate, so if you're interested, check it out.

If the doubt has already started creeping in, stop, take a deep breath and ask yourself, what do I love? If your answer has anything to do with yoga and teaching, then go for it!

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Feeling Empty? Do What Fills You Up!

2011-10-24T21:23:00.000-04:00

Every day we are bombarded with messages of need, want and desire. Feeling sad? Eat something. Feel like something’s missing? Buy more. Don’t feel like you fit in? Change. It’s the sentiments of bigger, faster, better driving our buying and social habits rather than real necessities and the constant self-defeating messaging that keeps us feeling disconnected and low.

As yogis, we come to our mat in order to connect with our higher self. With practice we cultivate awareness for our true needs, not just our emotional triggers, and see beyond the feelings and the fluff to get to the root our issues. When clarity is achieved we recognize the temporary nature of our surroundings thereby making us less dependent on the material. When we practice, we connect to our own inner joy and begin to identify the things that make us light up inside. As you begin to work with these activities, feel inspired and energized as your higher self stands up and says YES! This is what we’ve been waiting for!

So what’s the best way to start filling up on all the good stuff the Universe has to offer? Start off by asking yourself…

Read the entire article here!

Weightless by Marconi Union | Eight Minutes of Pure Relaxation

2011-10-20T07:14:00.000-04:00

Have you heard of this song Weightless by Marconi Union? It's said to be the most relaxing song in the world! The band worked with sound therapists to create the perfect harmonies, rhythms and bass lines that help to lower cortisol levels, slow the heart rate, and reduce blood pressure. The song is also said to slow breathing and reduce brain activity.

Why not give this a play the next time your feeling stressed or having trouble sleeping? Even better, try playing it during meditation when the monkey mind just won't quit!

Warning: it is not recommended to listen to this track while driving...just sayin'.

Read more about the song here!

Santosha | Finding Contentment and Happiness in All That You Do

2011-10-19T15:57:00.001-04:00

santosha anuttamah sukha labhah YS 2.42

From an attitude of contentment (santosha), supreme joy is obtained.

"There is no end of craving. Hence contentment alone is the best way to happiness. Therefore, acquire contentment." -Swami Sivananda

The second niyama discussed in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras is santosha or contentment. The thinking is easy. In order to achieve great happiness, learn to be content with what you have and accept what is. Let go of expectations and rest easy in the flow of life. Learn that the state of mind does not depend on any external status or material things. The state of your mind and happiness depends on your perspective and willingness to remain calm with each success and failure.

This is isn't always easy as we are faced daily with demanding jobs, excess bills and over-committed schedules, but all of those things can be fixed. They are not permanent. Sure, it's easier said than done, but the key is that it can be done. You have the power to be happy right now. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and connect with your joy. This is true contentment, not the material things around you.

The easiest way to practice santosha is to find gratitude in your life daily. Each day wake up and count at least 10 things you have to be grateful for. In the same way, seek abundance in your life in all that is around you. The sun in the sky, the green grass, the breeze that wisps across your neck. Make the most out of every situation. If you can, look for the humor in every day. I guarantee that laughter is the best medicine for any gloomy situation.

How do you practice with santosha? What makes you feel content and therefore happy? What tips or rituals do you use to seek santosha through your day?

Photo by Jenna Holloway

Making the Most of Crazy Dreams and Banishing the Monkey Mind

2011-10-18T18:05:00.000-04:00

Believe it or not, my plan to make my life simpler has been much more complicated than I anticipated or expected. Note: keywords anticipate and expect. These two words often lead to lots of misgivings when plans don’t quite work out the way we like them to. Typically I find it much easier to go with the flow and allow each twist and turn to be more like an adventure than an annoyance, but lately, it’s been much more challenging.

But then I watched this video from Soul Art TV and Kris Ward of Abundant Yogi and I got to thinking that I have been letting my monkey mind get the best of me lately, telling me stories that have frankly just been getting in the way. Really and truly, I believe that we should be able to do the work that brings us the most joy, that fills us up and we can be passionate about. And honestly, I'm ready to go there! I'm still in the early planning stages of laying my foundation, but what it feels like is a little bit of risk-taking mixed with a lot of self-nurturing talk and of course, patience.

The truth is I have been exploring lots of opportunities over the past year and by now, one would think that I had moved on, made things happen and been on my merry way. I mean, that's the way it's always worked for me. However, what I realized today (and probably already knew) is there has been this crazy knob of resistance right in the back of my mind keeping me from going the extra mile because what I want doesn't fit into most cookie cutter shapes. Ironically, I'm actually blocking my own success with preconceived notions of success really is. When I take inventory of the opportunities that have actually been flying my way, they all start to align with my dreams, yet, I've been so persistent in wanting things to look a certain way, I haven't opened up to them. The Universe is literally smacking me in the face and showing me the path and I'm sitting back and resisting. Nice.

Well, not anymore.

Walt Disney said “All our dreams can come true – if we have the courage to pursue them.” I'd like to believe the man is right and with clarity on my side and a good dose of positive thinking, I'm banishing the monkey mind and setting forth on my journey.

What drives your passion? What feeds your soul? How can you incorporate that into your work? How do you live your dreams?

photo by MarcoMagrini

Mantra of the Month | Sat Nam

2011-10-13T20:22:00.000-04:00

I had the unique opportunity to sub a Kundalini yoga class last night. And not just any Kundalini class, but a Kundalini & Gong class. It was amazing! If you haven't tried Kundalini yoga yet, I suggest you do. It's a super powerful way to get the prana moving. I also highly suggest a gong bath if you have the opportunity. The mystical tones of the gong will leave you vibrating for hours! Because of this experience, I was inspired to set this month's Mantra of the Month as Sat Nam.

Sat Nam is commonly used in the Kundalini yoga practice and is typically chanted at the end of class. It is also used in salutation, the same way you may use namaste. Sat translates to Truth and Nam translates to Name or Identity. Together, this mantra means Truth is my Identity. Truth in this sense speaks to the infinite truth or divinity that resides in each one of us. It is said that chanting Sat Nam invokes divine consciousness. The pure vibration of this mantra links us to our true identity--our divine soul.

When you look upon others, you look upon yourself. When you look upon yourself, you connect with the divine light within, the truth of your existence and the infinite spirit. Practice this mantra and seek your true nature.

Sat Nam.

Playing the Blame Game | Learning From Mistakes and Moving On

2011-10-07T12:03:00.001-04:00

“Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what youcould. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in, forget them as soon asyou can. Tomorrow is a new day, you shall begin it well and serenely...” –RalphWaldo Emerson

Recently I've had to deal with a difficult conflict in my workplace. I won't go into too much detail, there's no need to rehash all that has been happening, but I will say although it's been stressful, I mostly find it to be sad. There's been a lot of blame thrown around and I always find that when blame's at play resolutions rarely follow.

Blame is a funny thing. It creeps up often without our knowledge. Things happen. Mistakes are made and our gut instinct is to protect ourselves by justifying our actions no matter how ludicrous. There's nothing wrong with defending your actions, but more often than not, stepping back and taking a good hard look at a situation will give you the answers you need without getting defensive. Good decisions are rarely made when clarity is missing. American Naturalist John Burroughs said, “a man can fail many times, but he isn't a failure until he begins to blame somebody else." I believe this to be true. Once you start placing blame on others, without taking responsibility for your own actions, thoughts and words, you discredit the good work you do on your mat and in your practice. Not to mention going against the yama, satya, and living an honest, truthful life.

Yes, sometimes the truth hurts, but in the long run, placing blame can do much more damage. You may find yourself cut off from friends or mistrusted at work. If we want to start solving problems and learning to work together we must first learn to acknowledge our good days and bad days, our rights and wrongs and be okay with them. Each day is a new day and a new opportunity to start over. Brush off the mistakes you've made and make each one a lesson. Learn from the mistakes. Say you're sorry. Live an honest life, no matter how difficult, and be free from blame and sorrow.

Have you ever been in a situation where blame caused chaos? How did you manage? What do you do you when realize you made a mistake? Were you honest about your blunder? Do you let it get to you or do you let it go?

October Love | Getting in Touch with Joy and Practice

2011-10-04T12:21:00.000-04:00

I am making a concerted effort to get back to everything that brings me joy this month, the first being a regular practice and regular posting. I've had good reason to keep things on the down low but now it's time to get back into the swing of things. As Patanjali says, now is the time for yoga! (YS. 1.1).

It's an interesting challenge to take an unintentional hiatus from the things you enjoy. For the past month I've been trying to keep my head above water handling all of the emotions, vulnerability and loss of my mother's passing, while managing the stress of family concerns and a very unhealthy work environment. Needless to say I'm exhausted! There have been good days when I feel like I'm completely in tune with the world around me and other days when everything is a massive discord. I believe I'm doing my best, although it's not always pretty, and making the most of what has been coming my way. I'm grateful for my supportive friends, my ever patient and loving fiance and of course, my therapist.

Last night I had a dream that there was another earthquake in the area. Instead of freaking out and trying to run and duck for cover I simply stood and felt the earth shake under my feet as the walls came tumbling down around me. I woke up wondering if this is a premonition of things to come? As I made the vow this month to get back to everything that brings me joy, I spent a lot of time considering the work that I am doing and how to make good on my current situation. For the first time in months I feel there is more clarity around the situation. If my dream is any indication, I'm about to get moving and shaking as never before. I hope you'll join me on this adventure!

October dates to note:
October is Breast Cancer Awareness and month!
October 1: World Vegetarian Day!
October 2: 11-11-11 Global Sadhana with Spirit Voyage
October 10: Columbus Day (U.S.)
October 15: New Moon: Set your intentions for the month ahead!
October 24: United Nations Day
October 29: Full Moon
October 31: Halloween

Got any other great dates to share? Let me know!

Photo by By Raios de Luz - Gláucia Góes

Bringing My Practice to The Big Easy. Work calls in New Orleans!

2011-09-12T08:42:00.000-04:00

I'm heading to New Orleans today for work. I'll be there all week. I would like to say I'm excited to go, but that wouldn't be entirely truthful. I've always wanted to go to New Orleans, so that will be a treat, but it's the work part that's really dragging me down. Given my exhaustion level from my mom's recent passing and all the travel involved there, plus my general feelings about my job, I feel like the better thing for me to do is to have some down time to recharge.

But, it's my job and there's not much I can do about it. I have bills to pay! So I've decided that instead of filling myself up on the gloom and doom that pops up when I think about going, I'm focusing my intentions on making the most of this trip, experiencing what I can in the city and staying true to what I need to stay energized and healthy. It will indeed be a practice.

I'm very grateful for the time I got to spend this weekend with friends and relaxing. On Saturday, I went to Pure Prana's 8th Anniversary party and caught up with friends in my yoga community, many of whom I haven't seen since mid-August! It felt good to be there and to be amongst such shining lights. There's something special about that place and those people. I couldn't ask for a better sangha!
Read more »

September to Remember | Back to School and Back to the Mat

2011-09-07T07:57:00.000-04:00

As the summer heat drifts away, the temperate days of fall are finally upon us. Since Tuesday, we've been experiencing cool, rainy days here on the east coast and I couldn't be happier. It's a welcome change from the 90+ humidity that August brought us.

I'm a little behind on monthly kick-off post but for good reason. However, it's never too late to share what awesome things lie ahead this month.

First off, did you know it's National Yoga Month? If so, great! Let me know you plan to participate. If not, no worries. There's plenty of time to make plans and great ready for the Global Community Yoga Practice on September 30. Check out the list of participating studios hosting events and offering one week of free yoga!

Dates to remember this September:
September 5: Labor Day (US and Canada)
September 10: Salutation Nation 2011
September 11: 10 year memorial of 9/11: Take part in the 9/11 Unity Walk or other related activities.
September 12: Full Moon
September 18: DC Global Mala
September 21: World Gratitude Day. Show your appreciation for others!
September 23: Autumnal Equinox. 108 sun salutations anyone?
September 25: Letting it Flow: Yoga for Creative Writing workshop with yours truly at Pure Prana Yoga Studio in Alexandria, VA. Hope to see you there!
September 27: New Moon. Set your intentions for the month ahead!
September 30: Global Community Yoga Practice for National Yoga Month. How do you plan to participate?

On my reading list this month:
This month I'm picking up Real Happiness by Sharon Salzberg. Have you read it? It's been great so far. I'd love to hear your thoughts!

It seems there's a lot more going on than I thought! I hope you have a fabulous month and a very memorable September. Hari Om!

Working with Grief | Saying Goodbye and Letting Go of Loved Ones

2011-09-05T13:26:00.000-04:00

me and mom

My mom passed away about a week ago on August 27th. The cancer that she's been battling for over 11 years finally won. I've been going back and forth about whether or not I should write about the whole experience. It hasn't been pleasant and there is no glamor in what my family and I have been going through. There are not enough words to describe it all. My only hope is to share what I can and in so doing, healing can begin.

Watching someone I love suffer so greatly for so long and pass on is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Knowing she would pass any day and not being able to do anything about it, the second hardest. Staying strong to help my dad go through mom's things, the third hardest thing. I'm exhausted. The 12+ hour trip from Virginia to Florida and back again, plus all of the emotional energy expended has left me running on empty. I'm grateful for this extra day off to try and recuperate before heading back to work.

mom + dad before me :)

I don't know much about dealing with grief. I've never read a book about it or had to lose someone so close. I've talked it over with friends and in counseling, but never lived it. I've never watched anyone die before. Any other relatives that have passed have done so in their sleep or at a distance. I remember when we found out this February that the cancer had returned that something inside of me knew this was her last fight. Since then I've been working through the stages of grief: denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression and finally, acceptance, doing my best to come to terms with what was to come.

I wasn't there when she passed. Hurricane Irene stood in our way, delaying all travel plans. They told us that she most likely wouldn't make it through that Thursday night. She held on through Saturday morning. So strong, so stubborn, classic mom. I see my mom laying there during her last days and wonder what she was thinking, if she was in pain, was she comforted by our words of love? I can only hope so. Not knowing what else to do I chanted the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra 108 times in her honor to liberate her spirit as she moved from the material world.

the whole family

It is good that mom is no longer suffering. I'd rather her be at peace than here in so much pain, hardly living, just to stay with us another day. I don't mean to say I wish she wasn't here, but to see someone you love fight so hard, for so long and go through so much, you wonder when is it enough? Going through her things we were able to donate much to Goodwill. The best though was taking all of her unused, unopened medical supplies (and I'm talking thousands of dollars here) to the Russell Home for Atypical Children, a non-government funded organization that cares for severely handicapped children. Being so in need and knowing how much those supplies cost, they were very grateful for the donation. I think mom would be happy to have helped.

I will think of mom everyday. I will try to make her proud and continue to stay strong and smile and laugh through the difficult times like she did. I will remember her on my wedding day and when my children are born and feel grateful for having known her and loved her and loved by her. I will share her story with those that will listen. I will take comfort that she is no longer hurting and finally peaceful.

In life there is death and in death there is life.

I love you mom.

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Practice Intention with a Clear Mind & Open Heart to Expand Your World!

2011-08-25T08:00:00.011-04:00

Intention. Defined as an aim, plan or purpose, intentions are essential to any spiritual practice.

I’ve been listening to Deepak Chopra’s Affirmations of the Soul recently and he speaks the following: Intention is a force of nature. Intention is what creates our reality and what orchestrates the fulfillment of our dreams. Intention has infinite organizing power…To get the best result, you must clearly visualize your intended outcome.

Intention is everything. We should always approach our practice with intention. In most of the classes I teach, we work to get clear on our presence and reason for practice. We ask “why am I on my mat today?” This is your intention. Sometimes your intention may be physical, as in “I want stronger legs.” Other times your intention may be spiritual, as in “I wish to cultivate more patience.” Sometimes the intention comes to you quickly and sometimes it’s a little harder to decipher. If you’re not sure, do not worry. Keep asking “why am I on my may today?” and the answers will follow. Getting clear on your intentions helps you stay focused and creates awareness around your practice.

Read the full article!

Photo by Dr. Craig

Book Review | Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

2011-08-24T09:06:00.000-04:00

Last winter, a student came up to me after class one day. I had just finished talking about my Letting it Flow: Yoga for Creative Writing workshop coming up in a few weeks. She said that she had read my blog and enjoyed it. She suggested I read Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg. I mentioned that it was already on my reading list and she encouraged me to pick it up sooner, rather than later. A writer herself, she read this book and taken workshops with Ms. Goldberg and thought I'd enjoy what she had to say. Fast forward six months and I finally had the chance to pick it up and I'm so happy I did.

I have been writing since I was very small, earning awards for my elementary school poetry and making up elaborate stories just for fun. As I reflect on my early years, I would say that I've been spiritually aware since my youth as well. Sticking mostly to myself, I often pondered the connection between all beings, fascinated that what I was doing in my life in the present moment was happening to the next person and the next person making my world much larger then myself, yet somehow still connected.

As I moved into my high school years I discovered stream of consciousness writing. I began to experiment with my writing and self-expression by studying theatre and writing gobs of poetry. I shared these tomes with my good friends and family. When I got lost in the stream of consciousness, essentially, I got lost in spirit. The same held true for my college years at James Madison University. Writing and expressing always going hand in hand. Sometimes as I would write I was not even aware of what I was writing, the words just flowed.

Then I found yoga (or came back to yoga if you believe in past lives). It is here that I learned to marry my breath with writing. It is with yoga, mindfulness, presence and awareness that I came to understand the relationship of my writing to the inspiration I receive when I sit down and tap in to the Universe.

What does this have to do with Writing Down the Bones? Everything. Ms. Goldberg writes from a place of presence and awareness. She gives the writer complete freedom to be themselves from the darkest of shadows to the lightest of light. She effortlessly encourages the writer to embody their words and being at the same time. She makes space for agitation while giving structure to the release and practice. All things that I can relate to in my own practice and expression.

Bottom Line: If you write anything at all, read it. If you've already read it, read it again. If you have a spiritual practice, read it. It's most definitely worth your time.

Saucha | Acquiring Purity and Clarity for Evenness of Mind

2011-08-22T13:43:00.000-04:00

sauchat sva-anga jugupsa paraih asamsargah

YS: 2.40

Through cleanliness and purity of body and mind (shaucha), one develops an attitude of distancing, or disinterest towards one's own body, and becomes disinclined towards contacting the bodies of others.

sattva shuddhi saumanasya ekagra indriya-jaya atma darshana yogyatvani cha

YS: 2.41

Also through cleanliness and purity of body and mind (shaucha) comes a purification of the subtle mental essence (sattva), a pleasantness, goodness and gladness of feeling, a one-pointedness with intentness, the conquest or mastery over the senses, and a fitness, qualification, or capability for self-realization.

A few months ago I worked on a series of posts focused on the yamas, the ethical laws of yoga and how we interact with the world as laid out by Patanjali. I'd like to continue this study of the Eight Limb Path of Yoga, or Ashtanga Yoga, by moving on to the niyamas. Niyamas follow the yamas and consist of five tenents on how one should interact with themselves. Whereas yamas focus on the outer world, niyamas focus on the inner world of the Self.

The first niyama is saucha, meaning purity or clarity. In the classical sense, as one practices saucha they become disinterested with the human body, theirs and others, after realizing the grossness of the body (e.g. secretions, sweat, saliva). Through union with the Divine and clarity of mind, practitioners become less interested in the subtle body focusing their attention on loftier thoughts.

Modern yogis have also translated saucha to mean a healthy lifestyle and a clear and organized environment. For householders, keeping a cluttered environment relates to a cluttered mind. Living an unhealthy lifestyle, drinking too much, overeating, smoking, etc., are all ways we damage the body and live without mindfulness. In my own experience I have found that it is harder for me to concentrate when my environment is disorganized and messy. Being mindful of my environment helps me to stay organized and keep things tidy leaving me more time for practice or study.

All in Good Time | Manifesting Dreams While Dealing with Reality

2011-08-17T09:42:00.000-04:00

I make no secret of the fact that I long to write and teach full time one day. It's a dream of mine, a goal, aspiration. I'm working on this manifestation, but I've come to understand that right now may not be the right time. I'm okay with that...most days. I've done it before and learned a lot from my experience. But there are things I need to take care of before these things can manifest in a sustainable way and I'm working hard to make the most of right now.

I don't always feel this way. In fact, I usually fight the "stay" as much as possible. It's pretty treacherous stuff causing anxiety and angst. I see others doing the same thing I desire to do, that I know I'm gifted to do and I get envious, sometimes even jealous. I recognize that is the small me. The little girl that feels hurt and left out, picked on and disregarded. She's so scared and afraid sometimes, like the world is going to swallow her up whole and never look back.The big me is focused, confident and calm, trying hard to soothe the small me's fears, moving forward with grace and clarity.

I asked myself the other morning "when will I have more time to study, practice and teach?" The answer I received was "in good time." I have had to stop thinking that where I'm at is not where I'm supposed to be. I have to stop listening to the small me that thinks I should be farther along at 31 years old. I need to stop fighting so hard when clearly, right now, I need the stability I receive from my day to day work. This does not mean I am giving up and I am not trying every day to find ways to manifest my dreams. This does not mean I would not jump at the chance to make these dreams come alive. This does not mean I'm not an excellent teacher and writer! What it means is that I'm focused on learning what I can at this very moment to grow into the dreams I see for myself one day. I'm relishing in my successes and letting go of my sense of lack. I'm marinating in my dreams, tasting them along the way, adding a little something here and there for flavor, until I'm cooked up and ready to go!

For now, I will practice patience. For now, I will learn what I can in order to fuel my dreams for tomorrow. I know that everything will come to fruition, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but all in good time.

Photo by Charles Chan

Mantra of the Month | So Hum: Contemplate the Breath and Being

2011-08-10T10:41:00.002-04:00

The So Hum mantra is simple and can be practiced during mediation as well as asana. This mantra, which translates to "I am That," is a reflection of the breath but also a contemplation on our very essence of being. "So" means "I am" and "Hum" means "That" relating to our connection between all beings, the Universe and ultimately, to God. By meditating on "I am That" you see that you are never separate from God and that we are all connected in the same way.

To practice
Come to a comfortable seated position. Sit up tall reaching out through the crown of the head. Open across the heart center. Rest palms where are they are comfortable, taking a mudra if you prefer. Relax your jaw and bring your attention to the breath. Once you have found a comfortable rhythm, inhale and silently say the word "so" to yourself. Repeat on the exhale by silently speaking "hum." When the "so hum" rhythm is comfortable begin to contemplate the meaning "I am That." Consider that all beings are all a part this same breath. With every inhale see your neighbors, pets, friends, family inhale to the sound of "so" and send loving kindness to everyone as you all exhale together to the sound of "hum."

Continue in this way for the rest of your meditation. You can also practice this mantra during asana. Whenever you feel distracted, relate to your breath and silently speak So Hum on each inhale and each exhale. Doing so will help to cultivate awareness of your breath and a deeper reflection of your asana practice.

How does "I am That" resonate with you and your practice?

Catching up on August Respites | Finding Practice, Balance, and Peace in the Small Moments

2011-08-09T07:21:00.000-04:00

I am home from vacation and although my time off of work was more like a long weekend, it was still nice to get away and do the things I wanted to do. My fiancé and I took time to work on our new house, made plans for our upcoming wedding, visited with family, and spent time with good friends, meeting their adorable new baby. It was wonderful and I'm grateful for having the opportunity to take off and have some down time.

I wish I could say I felt more relaxed and rejuvenated following the week off, but I don't. While at my family's house I was plagued by the craziest dreams stemming from the recent passing of my grandmother and about half way through the week I developed a severe allergy to just about anything! All of this left me feeling fatigued, irritable, and simply out of place as I made my way back to work yesterday.

Coming back to work was okay and not nearly as intense as I thought it would be. Hardly anyone was in my office and I had time to catch up and prepare projects for the rest of the week. I worked myself into a tizzy Sunday night thinking there would be some major crisis to clean up, but there wasn't. Although the past few times I was out of the office I came back to more stress than reasonable, this time, it was all pretty straightforward and for that I am grateful.
Read more »

Book Review | True Love: A Practice for Awakening the Heart by Thich Nhat Hanh

2011-07-29T13:26:00.001-04:00

I just read this book. No literally, I picked it up yesterday and read it in about an hour and loved every minute of it! If you haven't had a chance to read any of Thich Nhat Hanh's works, then I highly suggest you do. His explanations are so simple, yet so precise, completely unveiling the mysteries of meditation and mindfulness practice.

In this work, Hanh discusses the four aspects of love, the importance of being present in relationships, how to forgive those you love, how to ask for help from loved ones, and the importance of taking care of oneself. The practices he offers are easy to incorporate into any daily sadhana (spiritual practice). If you are new to mindfulness practice, then this is a great place to start.

Hanh writes, "The practice of mindfulness, the practice of meditation, consists of coming back to ourselves in order to restore peace and harmony. The energy with which we can do this is the energy of mindfulness. Mindfulness is a kind of energy that carries with it concentration, understanding, and love. If we come back ourselves to restore peace and harmony, then helping another person will be a much easier thing."

Be love. Breathe love. Give love. Share love.

Also on my favorites list, You Are Here by Thich Nhat Hanh. "Breathe in and know that you are breathing in. Breathe out and know that you are breathing out." Lovely.

Do you practice mindfulness? If so, how has it helped to heal yourself and your relationships? What sorts of clarity have you gained through mindfulness and meditation practice?

Infographic | Are You Happy?

2011-07-28T11:33:00.000-04:00

A friend shared this today on Facebook and I had to pass along. It's too simple and too great to keep to myself.

via

So...are you happy? What can you change in your life to make yourself happy?

Source: http://visual.ly/are-you-happy-0

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Dancing with Doubt | 5 Tips for Achieving your Dreams

2011-07-27T10:58:00.000-04:00

“We each possess an inner resource of wisdom, resilience and strength…a place of deep peace, ease and great joy and light. When we are connected with that place, there isn’t self-doubt. We know from our core who we are and what to do. Being kind to yourself helps you get there.” –Kate Holcombe

There seems to be a lot of doubt floating around my head lately. There are things I want to do, but feel too held back sometimes in order to make them happen. In fact, if I had to choose, I think doubt would be my biggest obstacle to overcome right now. I am seeking a way to teach and write full-time and do more creative work than my nine-to-fiver affords, but I can’t seem to find my footing. There are pieces that I feel have yet to fall in place and it’s all I can do to be patient with the process.

Having made many great things happen for myself over the years, I consider myself to be a major manifester. I have tons of ideas, lots of know-how and experience, but the recent doubt keeps getting in the way. It’s almost as if I’m TOO practical to make this risky dream a reality. However, I know that this is where my path will lead and I’ve been using the five following tips to stay the course.

1) Be kind to myself. There’s no use beating myself up because I’m “not there yet” especially since “there” is such a subjective concept anyway. As an over-achieving, perfectionist, do-gooder type it’s been hard to swallow that things haven’t happened exactly as I want them to, but giving myself a break and learning from the process helps me stay present and aware, ready to take on opportunities as they come my way.

Read the full article on Yoganonymous!

Photo by Misserion

Sharing Some Great Gifts of My Own!

2011-07-21T12:40:00.000-04:00

Since the beginning of the year I've been working to manifest my desire to teach and write about yoga full time. Just this morning I was feeling sort of blue when I remembered I had submitted an article a few months back to The Yogic Way. Curious, I did a little search and found that the magazine was out. Finally, my very first published article!

I'm super ecstatic about this opportunity as it's definitely a positive step in the right direction as I continue to work on my career goals. This was just the boost I needed to re-energize my efforts and get back to some serious manifesting work.

Thanks for all of your support. Onwards and upwards!

Why Don't You Stay | Sticking With it Without Going Under

2011-07-20T15:42:00.000-04:00

It's been difficult to get back to a normal routine. I feel like I'm getting there but with so much transition, it's hard to know where normal lies. I was talking this over with a friend last week and she assured me that all I was feeling was a part of the grieving process and that I should be easier on myself and give myself time to work through it all. She reminded me that it was okay to stay with what I was feeling and that beating myself up would only make the situation worse, taking me down farther than I really want to go. This doesn't mean it won't be sucky along the way, but giving myself space to feel might actually help me get through it much more easily.

It was a helpful reminder and got me thinking about difficult situations in general. As spiritual practitioners we sometimes feel the need to bypass whatever we are going through, calling on a higher power and a knowing that "this too shall pass." This is called spiritual bypassing or the tendency to jump to spirit prematurely, usually in an effort to avoid various aspects of earthly reality (practical challenges, unresolved emotions and memories). To continually look beyond our realities leaves us empty handed in the end as we never learn to work through our "stuff." In my experience, it is those very difficult situations that actually lift us up and stimulate change. The constant turning away won't help to clear any karmas we may be working with, keeping them coming back over and over again.
Read more »

Don't Forget to Breathe....When the Body Can No Longer Hang On

2011-07-19T07:50:00.000-04:00

I went to see the new Harry Potter movie this weekend. Knowing the showing would be sold out, we got there early to get good seats. This is not my normal m.o. for the movies, but given the past few weeks I've had I didn't want to stress about finding seats once we got there and really, any kind of downtime is welcome right now. All of a sudden as I'm sitting there watching the ads and people watching, I feel a huge sigh overtake my body followed by a wave of muscles releasing from my head to my toes. It was almost as if someone had come and punched the tension right out of me!

Wow, I thought, I didn't even realize I was that tense. My body literally couldn't hold on any more and had to "let go" whether I was prepared or not. While I've been doing everything possible to take care of myself through all the tribulations, it's been hard, however I never stopped to consider that I wasn't breathing properly. In fact, I was starting to think I was coming down with a cold and given all the hospital visits, airline time and office co-workers with bugs, it didn't seem too far fetched. The reality is though, that I haven't been breathing well and it is starting to manifest in my body and elsewhere.

So I've decided that for the next week at least, as I slowly reintroduce myself to my normal routine, I'm also going to make a more concerted effort to take deeper breaths and relax the muscles of my body and face no matter how odd it looks.This may include unusual bouts of long deep breaths and funny face exercises, but I don't care. It's time to unwind and let it all go.

Have you ever had a moment when the tension just can't hold on any longer? How do you ease yourself into a normal routine once you've experienced a break in your schedule? What small exercises do you do to relax every day?

What the World Needs Now is Love | Drop a Love Bomb and Show Someone You Care

2011-07-14T13:24:00.000-04:00

The past few weeks have not been easy for me. In fact, they have downright been the most difficult ones I've had to go through in a long time. While there have been lots of wonderful things to celebrate (a new house and an engagement!), this past week I lost my grandmother and was on my way to her funeral when I had to fly to Florida on the spur of the moment to be with my family at my mother's bedside as she continues to fight her 11 year battle with cancer.

So, today my heart melted when I received my Daily Wisdom from Tiny Buddha. Highlighted between two articles was a feature on the site Love Bomb. Dedicated to sending love to those who need it most, once a week the community of love bombers come together to send messages, in the form of blog comments, of love and compassion to those who really need it.

As I'm way better at giving love than receiving (I know, I'm working on it!), I absolutely love this idea. What better way to practice compassion for others than by sharing in the Love Bomb community?

Check it out, share the love, and become a love bomber today.

Thank you Tiny Buddha for sharing this inspirational site!

Mantra of the Month | Mahamrityunjaya Mantra for Liberation

2011-07-08T19:24:00.000-04:00

Om Tryambakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim Pushthi Vardhanam
UrvaRukamiva Bandhanat
Mrytyor Muksheeya Mamritat

We Meditate on the Three-eyed reality
Which permeates and nourishes all like a fragrance.
May we be liberated from death for the sake of immortality,
Even as the cucumber is severed from bondage to the creeper.

I'm sad to say that my grandmother passed away this weekend. She was my last living grandparent and I'm very sad that she has departed this world. Since her passing I've been thinking a lot about life, death, and what it means to truly be liberated, thus this mantra of the month. The Mahamrityunjaya Mantra or Moksha Mantra is one of the more potent mantras in Sanskrit. It is a deep call for enlightenment, purifying the karmas on many levels and is beneficial for mental, emotional, and physical health.

The ultimate goal of yoga is to find liberation from suffering and unity with the Divine. This is done by extensive practice and meditation and is a goal that many of us, despite our best efforts, may never achieve until death. To achieve liberation while living is to be a jivanmukta. Like the cucumber being severed from the vine, so too the jivanmukta is liberated from the suffering of the human world and is truly free.

Chanting this mantra will not eliminate your suffering all together, however, it may give you pause and consideration to the egoic details of life that ensnare our souls while we are living. To practice this mantra is to clear away these sufferings so that we may become free in life as we are in death. One may chant this mantra to ask for liberation from sufferings, for those that are recently departed, or on one's birthday as a celebration of life's purpose; to attain liberation in this lifetime.

Watch the video below to hear this mantra:

Celebrating Freedom and Practicing Gratitude on this Fourth of July

2011-07-04T08:09:00.000-04:00

I am not a super huge fan of fireworks, but given all of the happenings this past week I can't help but feel like the picture above; an over joyful explosion of gratitude and love. Regardless of the stress of the move and work, I'm still buzzing around flying high on the tails of possibility and couldn't be any happier.

I came across this quote today from the Tricycle Daily Dharma and wanted to share. As my fiance and I set up our home, I'm finding we have more stuff than we really need and am in no rush to fill the empty spaces. I'm just grateful we're here together.

"We have to cultivate contentment with what we have. We really don’t need much. When you know this, the mind settles down. Cultivate generosity. Delight in giving. Learn to live lightly. In this way, we can begin to transform what is negative into what is positive. This is how we start to grow up."

-Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, "No Excuses"

Accentuate the Positive! | A Few Thoughts on June...

2011-06-30T08:00:00.000-04:00

The past few weeks have been the craziest, most intense time for me. I don't know about you, but I keep feeling like the Universe is throwing curve balls every which way and I'm doing my best to stay grounded and present to move through it all.

Putting it like that, you'd think it's all bad, but it isn't! Last weekend my boyfriend and I got engaged and only just yesterday, we closed on our new home. We're very happy and super excited to start our new life together! During this time though I've also been trying to balance crushing deadlines at work, including some very disappointing events surrounding projects I was working on, ups and downs with my health (who gets a cold in the summer?!), yoga classes and workshops, challenges with my mom's condition, and personal engagements galore (June is sooo busy!). And while all of this is going on I'm still trying to manifest some major changes in my life, because, believe it or not, I've been uber inspired this month and am excited to see where this path will lead!
Read more »

Get Grounded | Getting Your Head Out of the Clouds and Your Feet Back on the Ground

2011-06-23T06:57:00.000-04:00

If it wasn't for my grounding yoga practice, I can safely say I wouldn't be able to handle half of the things that have come my way over the past few years. This is not to say that I've got it all figured out, it's quite the contrary in fact. There are times when I'm irrational, emotional, and all around messy, but it's always my practice that brings me back to center.

To give you and idea of what's been going on, over the past few years I've gone through a divorce, moved twice (if you count the one right ahead of me next week), started a new relationship (lovely!), seen friends pass in and out of my life, watched cancer take over my mom's body, lost family members, left a wonderful job in order to seek health insurance, said new job now puts me in what I think might be the most dysfunctional office I've ever seen, went through an intense yoga teacher training program and became a teacher, started a new business venture, ended a new business venture, struggled to keep my health in check, drastically reorganized my finances, and decided that no matter how crazy, I'm going to chase my dreams. That's a lot, but it's also life and we all have our stuff to go through. I truly believe we aren't given anything we can't handle and that's why I'm thankful I have yoga to help me through it all.

It's very easy to think we're "okay" when the storms of life start brewing, but what I've found is that it's actually more "okay" to admit that you're stressed out. For me, the first step in getting control of the situation and my sanity is to realize that I am actually overwhelmed. Practice gives me this clarity. Practice gives me an opportunity to settle within this awareness. Practice allows me the space to consider alternatives, make peace with my mistakes, and ultimately move forward with grace.

As I prepare for my Get Grounded workshop this weekend I keep coming back to the question "why is this so important? Why do I feel that people need to get grounded?" The answer is very simple. Grounding is the opportunity to reconnect with your body, your breath, and Mother Earth. Grounding is essential in standing up for what you believe in and taking action to make change. You may think you are the smartest, most spiritual person in the world, but without a steady, grounding practice you'll find yourself floating off into the ethers while the rest of deal with our problems here on earth. Grounding is coming to terms with our roots and accepting where we are at in life while developing the tools to navigate through it all.

One of my most favorite ways to get grounded is to kick off my shoes, walk barefoot in the grass while taking long, deep breaths. It's that simple! I'll share more tips this weekend, but I want to know...how do you stay grounded? What grounding postures do you find most beneficial? How often do you reconnect to your roots?

Read more of my thoughts on getting grounded at ihanuman!

Asana Series: Balasana | Child's Pose

2011-06-21T19:35:00.001-04:00

Balasana

(bah-LAHS-anna)
bala = child

I'm preparing ready for my Get Grounded workshop coming up this weekend, so I thought it only fitting that I share my most favorite grounding posture, Balasana or Child's Pose. This pose is great for stressful days, helping to relieve anxiety and calm the nerves. Do it whenever you need a rest or if you're feeling overwhelmed. Balasana helps bring you back to center, to your body, and to your breath.

To practice:
Kneel on the floor, bringing your big toes to touch underneath your seat. Slowly begin to fold forward so that your head comfortably touches the floor. If you hips and legs are tight, sit on a block or folded blanket to elevate your seat. You can wrap your arms around your legs with palms facing up, as pictured above, or extended them forward, as below.

Inhale deeply and feel an extension along the spine as you elongate with each breath. Exhale and release into the space you have created with your breath. Breathe fully and deeply into your sacrum and feel the lower back release tension.

If the arms are wrapped along the side of the body, feel a stretch between the shoulder blades. If the arms are extended forward, feel a stretch along the underside of the arms. Stay in Balasana for 1 to 3 minutes or as long as you like. It's that simple! Ask your teacher for modifications if you are experiencing stomach discomfort, are pregnant, or have a knee injury.

How do you use Balasana in your practice? Do you find more calming or agitating? What other postures do you use to calm the nerves and unwind?

Resources to enjoy!

Photos by Mina Habibi

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | HELP: Not Your Average 4-Letter Word | A Practice in Seeking and Accepting Help

2011-06-14T16:08:00.000-04:00

I consider myself to be pretty independent, taking pride in all that I have because I’ve worked hard for it all.If you asked those closest to me they would probably tell you that I’m a little too headstrong that way, preferring to do things myself rather than seek help. I never really considered it like this, thinking instead that I am just successfully self-sufficient. However, in the past year or so, I’ve had to soften to the experience of seeking and accepting help. For the first time, I’m learning to lean on others more than really makes me comfortable and rest easy with accepting help.

Thinking that I’ve been doing a good job working with this practice, I was shocked to find major discomfort when I had to ask for help from my boyfriend in a major way. True, we’re moving in together and we have a very solid relationship, so you think that asking for a little assistance would be a no-brainer. However, when it came to having this conversation, my anxiety kicked in big time! My hands were sweaty, my heart was pounding, and my breath was quickened. I started to cry half-way through the conversation even though I knew he would be happy to help me out, without judgment. What I rationally knew to be a safe situation became filled with feelings of judgment, shame, and guilt. Not at the situation, but at myself. In this moment, I realized I was holding a major limiting belief for myself…that I was not a successful or even a good person because I needed someone else’s assistance.

Read the rest of the article here!

Photo by Pedro Moura Pinheiro

It's All About Community | Virginia Yoga Week | June 12-19

2011-06-10T12:05:00.005-04:00

Whew...June is really shaping up to a busy, but fun month. There's so much energy buzzing through the air I can hardly sit still!

What's next? Virginia Yoga Week kicks off this Sunday, June 12 and this year it's all about community. Over 104 classes, 19 participants and 17 benefiting charities, offering free, donation-based and $5 classes. I just love the idea of studios and practitioners coming together all in the name of yoga!

Virginia Yoga Week encourages people of all ages and fitness levels to explore yoga, while at the same time raising funds for a variety of good causes, including The Exalted Warrior Foundation, Carpenter’s Shelter, People for Haiti, Give Back Yoga, Reston Inter Faith and the Loudoun County Animal Shelter. The donation-based Karma classes form part of the Virginia Yoga Week Karma Project, which promotes the yoga of selfless service. What could be better?

Check out your favorite studio's offerings or scope out a new studio you've been dying to try. This is your opportunity to try something new, get moving and give back. While there are lots of classes to choose from, there are also three community events taking place this year that you won't want to miss!

June 12: Love Your Body Day
9am-4pm @ Reston Town Center
Proceeds to benefit Reston Interfaith
Schedule of Events and Info

June 17: Yoga on the Potomac-NEW this year!
6:30-9:30pm @ Collingwood Library and Museum
Proceeds to benefit Give Back Yoga and YoKid
$20 suggest minimum donation
Schedule of Events and Info

June 19: Free Yoga in the Fresh Air in Old Town Alexandria
3:30pm-5:30pm @ Montgomery Park in Old Town Alexandria
corner of North Royal and Montgomery Streets
Schedule of Events and Info

Visit the Virginia Yoga Week website and plan your yoga packed week ahead!

Support a Good Cause | To Haiti With Love DC | June 18

2011-06-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

This March I spent five lovely days participating in the Off the Mat and Into the World Leadership Training. It was an amazing experience. I learned so much about myself and met so many lovely new friends. Since then, many of my fellow OTMers have been busy putting their yoga into action through various activities. In particular, Kristin Adair and Christy Freer from the DC area, have stepped up to participate in the Global Seva Challenge 2011: Haiti Project and are pooling their resources to raise $20,000 or more to support relief efforts in Haiti next February. On June 18, they will hold To Haiti With Love DC bringing together teachers from across the area to practice 108 Sun Salutations together.

I wanted to help and I wanted to know more. I asked Kristin, why Haiti? Why now? Here's what she had to share...

It may seem like there are too many problems in the world and no way for any one individual to have a meaningful impact. As yogis, we are drawn to connection and the experience of our actions interwoven with those around us, near and far, in the flow of the universe. Yet I have often found myself wondering how to connect in a meaningful way—whether a small donation I make will really be used as promised or contribute to any long-term solution. That is, until I discovered Off the Mat, Into the World and embarked on the Global Seva Challenge for Haiti.

Learning about the current situation in Haiti has been eye-opening, as that country has largely faded from view in the media and public conversation after last year’s devastating earthquake was replaced by new global crises and pop culture distractions. But millions of Haitians are still living in temporary housing, facing the threat of cholera outbreaks and the impending hurricane season, lacking adequate water and waste treatment facilities, and confronted daily with violence within the camps and the possibility of raids and evictions by government officials.
Read more »

My Guest Interview @ Teach Street | Where Yoga, Acting and Writing Meet

2011-06-07T14:28:00.000-04:00

I love this blog and this work because there always something fun and exciting going on! Most recently I was contacted by Teach Street as one of their Featured Bloggers for an interview asking how I got started teaching and practicing yoga. Here's an excerpt or follow the link below to read the entire interview.

Tell me: How did you start practicing yoga? What other activities or outlets have emerged as you continue to practice?

Today’s interview is with Rachel Wallmuller of CapriciousYogi.com. Rachel is a registered yoga teacher whose unique background as an actress and writer provides a refreshing perspective on practicing yoga both on and off the mat. In the interview Rachel discusses the connection between yoga and acting, yoga and writing, as well as her experience as a yoga teacher.

1. In your bio you mention that you’re both an Actress and Yogi, and you got into Yoga because it helped you with your acting skills. Could you tell us a little more about that connection?

I studied Theatre at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. During that time I discovered that acting was less about reacting to what everyone else was doing on stage and more about being as present as possible. As an actor, you have to be believable or the audience will see right through you. Since you already know what is going to happen next, because hopefully you read the script, you speak and embody each moment and each breath as if it’s the first time it ever happened; night after night, day after day. Yoga helps you get into your body and into your breath so that you experience the here and now, not the later. With practice, you begin to cultivate a spatial awareness (where your body is in space and relation to others) as well as awareness to the subtle thoughts and emotions of the others characters (affectionately known as subtext). Good acting is not reacting, but rather observation through awareness and presence. The practice of yoga cultivates these qualities giving the performer the tools they need to come alive on stage over and over again.

Read more »

Mantra of the Month | Om Namah Shivaya

2011-06-06T18:49:00.000-04:00

Om Namah Shivaya

A few months ago I had this crazy dream where I was in a field with a bunch of people that were carrying on with all kinds of antics and shenanigans, hooligans I think I called them. All of a sudden I sat down in sukhasana (easy seated pose) and started meditating and chanting this month's mantra of the month–Om Namah Shivaya. As I did, everything around me started to change color and sparkle. And as the chanting got louder, the colors got more vibrant; the whole dream world was vibrating!

I've had some crazy dreams before, but this one topped the charts! Curious, I asked a good yogi friend what she thought of my dream. She wasn't quite sure but thought perhaps that's what I needed to be; the calm amidst all the chaos and the craziness.

Whether the dream meant anything at all is another story, but in the meantime, it's worth discussing this powerful mantra. Om Namah Shivaya is a five syllable mantra or Panchakshara Mantra, with each of the five syllables relating to earth, water, fire, air and space. Roughly, it means "I bow to Shiva." Shiva is the supreme reality, the inner Self and the name of your true identity. Chanting this mantra is said to take you back to the source–your Self.

Listen and sing!

There are a ton of great resources for this mantra. What are some of your favorites?

Facebook Giveaway | Free Yoga Retreat at Kripalu

2011-06-03T08:00:00.004-04:00

Happy Friday friends! I'd like to kick off the weekend by sharing a Facebook giveaway for a free yoga retreat. Yep, that's right...free! Honestly, I'd do anything right about now to getaway, so signing up for an opportunity to win a free yoga retreat at Kripalu from July 29-31, 2011 sounds like a good idea to me.

There's no catch...all you need to do is "like" Dr. Sinatra's page on Facebook and you are entered to win. There is no cost and you can "unfriend" Dr. Sinatra at any time. The contest runs through June 15, 2011. The grand prize winner receives airfare, tuition and private accommodations.

Learn more about the workshop, New Frontiers in Cardiovascular Health and Healing or check out other offerings at Kripalu.

Hari Om and good luck!

Kicking Off Summer and Getting Ready For The Month Ahead!

2011-06-01T09:10:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning feeling really optimistic about the month ahead. I don't have any particular reason for feeling this way. I have no vacations planned, although I'm working on it, my job is about to go bonkers with deadlines, I'm getting ready to move, and I'm busy, busy, busy making plans to grow and cultivate my own business. If you ask me, that's a lot of work to do! Regardless, June feels pretty good and if there's anything I've learned throughout my journey, it's that a positive attitude can take you as far as you're willing to go.

I hope you'll take time in June to relax and have fun! Summer is upon us and it's time we kick of our shoes and enjoy life for a bit. The past few months have been stressful and now it's time to reap the rewards of our hard work by letting loose and having fun! Reconnect with friends, visit family, try a new yoga class, or plan a fun activity with your loved one. There are lots of ways to unwind this June!

Dates to note
June 1: New Moon-set your intentions for the month ahead
June 5: Sacred Chant concert with Snatam Kaur, GuruGanesha Singh, Washington, DC. Buy tickets online or at Pure Prana Yoga Studio.
June 5: World Environment Day
June 12-19: Virginia Yoga Week 2011
June 15: Full Moon for maximum illumination
June 18: To Haiti With Love DC | 108 Sun Salutations for Haiti
June 19: Father's Day
June 21: Summer Solstice-the official start of summer time fun!
June 26: Get Grounded workshop with yours truly!

Let's focus on the good...What ways do you plan to unwind this June? What are you most looking forward to this summer?

photo by Jay Santiago

Do Your Best and People Will Notice | Words of Wisdom From Oprah's Master Class Series

2011-05-30T22:09:00.000-04:00

Have you seen Oprah's Master Class series? I stumbled upon it a few weeks ago while flipping through channels and was delighted by it's message. The idea behind the series is that we are all each others teachers, a concept that has always resonated with me. So far, I've only had the opportunity to catch "class" with Oprah and Maya Angelou but both were great and I'm eager to see more.

I bring this up because something that Oprah said during her own master class keeps coming up for me lately. It's a very simple concept and easy to apply to all situations, especially those that might seem less than ideal.

"When you do well, when you do your best, people will notice."

The idea is so simple that anyone can apply it to their practice and life. It's about living with intention and really making the most of every breath, every moment that you are given to do your best. If you are just schlumping along, barely making it through each day, it's easy to lose yourself. However, if you approach every situation, even the ones that make you cringe, with the best intentions and give it all that you've got, people will notice and will be drawn to you, opportunities will open up and before you know it, you're taking that next great step along your path.

I've been working a lot with manifesting dreams and this is another tool for me. I think to myself, if I can rise above whatever discord I'm feeling in this situation, allow myself to enjoy what I'm doing, and give it 110% than surely all of that effort will eventually pay off. First though, I have to be open to the possibilities before the possibilities can appear and do my best in every situation.

Do your best and people will notice. Thanks Oprah. I really like that one...

photo by Walt Jabsco

Dreams: More Than a Wish Your Heart Makes

2011-05-27T06:50:00.001-04:00

A crazy thought came to me out of nowhere today. I was at work, finishing up a meeting, checking off my to-do list and getting ready for the hectic few months ahead. I haven't been a fan of my job lately. I make no secrets of this and have been doing everything I can think of to get out. That's why it struck me as odd when I thought:

"What would happen if I stopped trying so hard to get out of here?"

Given the amount of struggle, stress, angst and turmoil I've been going through, this concept seemed so out of the blue, that I actually stopped mid-stride to really consider it. Perhaps, I thought, it's that struggle and frustration that is actually slowing down the process. Could I allow myself to let go and, dare I say, enjoy the work I was doing? The answer came in loud and clear...yes, I can.

We must go through what we are going through in order to get where we are going.

It occurred to me that while I will never give up my dreams of teaching, writing and working for myself full-time,(see What I Can Do For You and let me know how I can help you!) there's no reason that I can't surrender to the flow of life and enjoy the work I'm doing on a daily basis. I'm not talking about a full-on, hands in the air, throw in the towel commitment, but rather a delicate release into the present moment. I even started to consider that perhaps my impatience is precisely the thing holding me back from taking that next step. Undoubtedly, we are always our biggest obstacle, so why don't I continue to do the work to get where I want to go, but get out of my own way for a bit? I can still dream big and envision a more balanced life living my purpose, but what's the rush? It's not about life or death, just living life to its fullest.

We may have many wishes, but it is through our dreams that we discover who we are to become.
Read more »

Taking the First Step | Yama of the Yoga Sutras

2011-05-25T19:13:00.000-04:00

Patanjali

I've taken time over the past few months to outline the yamas from Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. The yamas are the first step in the Eight Limbed Path of Yoga, or Ashtanga Yoga, as laid out by master Patanjali and they define how we should interact with the world. They are:

Ahimsa: non-violence

Satya: truthfulness

Asteya: non-stealing

Brahmacharya: moderation, celibacy

Aparigraha: non-hoarding, greedless-ness

These five principles guide us in our daily life to make better decisions and to be aware of our actions. It is not about being right or wrong, but living life the best way possible.

B.K.S. Iyengar writes in his tome Light on Yoga "These commandments are the rules of morality for society and the individual, which if not obeyed bring chaos, violence, untruth, stealing, dissipation and covetousness...Patanjali strikes at the roots of these evils by changing the direction of one's thinking along the five principles of yama."
Read more »

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Find the Fun in Every Moment & Connect to What Brings you Joy!

2011-05-21T06:53:00.000-04:00

This is my first guest post on Yoganonymous. I hope you enjoy and it inspires you to get out, let go and have some fun. Many thanks to the Yoganonymous team for their support. Namaste my friends!

“You know Rachel…you should really try to have more fun” said a dear friend the other day.

No truer words than these have been recently spoken.

My friend is right. I haven’t had much fun lately. Well, that’s not entirely true. There have been some fun moments, but even in the throes of hilarity I’ve still felt really weighted down by life. Like I’m going through the motions of having fun (and not very well I might add!). There’s been a lot of Serious Face Rachel around these parts and I think it’s time she says goodbye.

Easier said than done. It’s called practice for a reason and it isn’t always easy. Whenever I feel myself going down that slippery slope, I make a deliberate effort to focus on the good things happening in my life and trusting that everything else will fall into place. This too shall pass, right? Logically this makes sense but sometimes the process gets the best of me and I’m all Sullen Face Susan before you know it. I wake up every day with the full intention of focusing on the good in life, to see a brighter side of things. I journal about what I’m grateful for and I make efforts to get outside for fresh air to “put away” my troubles and focus on the positive. It is an every day, moment by moment process.

Read the rest of the article here!

photo by Jason D'Great

Book Reviews | Learning from the Masters: Krishnamacharya and Paramahansa Yogananda

2011-05-19T06:50:00.001-04:00

I've been catching up on a little light reading over the past few months, mostly those by and about yoga masters. As part of my practice, both of these titles have served me well in expanding my understanding of yoga.

The first is Krishnamacharya: His Life and Teachings by A.G. Mohan. Considered the "father of modern yoga" to many, he is the teacher of B.K.S. Iyengar, Sri K. Patthabi Jois, T.K.V. Desikachar, Indra Devi and many others that helped to bring modern yoga to the West. This book eloquently recounts Krisnhmacharya's teachings through the eyes of his beloved disciple A.G. Mohan, who takes you right into the room with Krishnamacharya and his discovery of yoga.

The love and respect that Mohan holds for his Guru is felt in every word, every sentence, every page of this inspirational book. Mohan recounts his teachings on Patanjali's Yoga Sutras including yama, niyama, asana and related practices as well as their time spent together. Given that Krishnamacharya's teachings influence so many yoga masters in the West it only makes sense to study right from the source. This book in insightful, inspirational and informative and sure to be a classic for yoga practitioners in the years to come.

The second book topping my reading pile is Autobiography of Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda. This book has been on my reading list for a long time and or course, I seemed to pick it up when I needed it most, as the past few months my faith and trust in the Universe has been tested on more than a few occasions. This is a classic, essential read for any practitioner on a spiritual path and is truly awe-inspiring. Yogananda details his experience seeking God-realization and his encounters with numerous saints and yogis, miracles, science, death and resurrection.

Although there are many, one of my favorite lessons in this book is Yogananda's desire to go to the Himalayas to find his Guru. He spends much of his youth trying to run away to the mountains in search of spiritual guidance, however, every time he goes, he is dismayed when his Guru does not appear. It is only when he let's go of this mission that his Guru finally appears. He he was not not in the Himalayas, but in the next town over! He seeks far and wide for guidance, but his Guru has been near all the time.

Although different, both yogis were influential in bringing yoga to the West. Krishnamacharya did so through his students, well known to many practitioners today and Yogananda did so through the Self-Realization Fellowship. These teachings are invaluable and highly recommended for those on the yogic path.

Read them for yourself!

Get Out, Get Moving, Get Inspired-DC Yoga Week | May 15-21!

2011-05-11T11:08:00.001-04:00

Okay, so I didn't have a chance to post this on my events page, but wanted to remind everyone that this weekend is Yoga on the National Mall for DC Yoga Week! If you're in town this Sunday and looking for awe-inspiring way to rock out your weekend, then make plans to participate! I love the idea of yogis from across the area and different studios coming together to practice. Now THAT's what I call community!

DC Yoga Week provides FREE and $5 yoga classes to Washington DC area residents, giving them with an opportunity to enjoy different yoga classes at participating DC studios for one week each spring. Our mission is to promote the practice and enjoyment of yoga; to increase awareness of its benefits, which include increased strength, flexibility and relaxation; and to encourage greater physical health and well being in our community.

The week will kick off with Yoga on the National Mall. Check out the schedule:

1.30-2.30 Kids’ Yoga and Hooping with Hoop Dance DC, featuring live drumming by the Young Women’s Drumming Empowerment Project

2.30-3.15 All Levels yoga class led by teachers from DC Yoga Week studios

3.15-3.30 Acro-Yoga demonstration and interactive partner class – easy and fun!

3.30-4.30 Special Appearance and class lead by Shiva Rea, accompanied by drumming from Unified Vibrations

You can stay connected by joining the Facebook page or visit http://dccy.org/dc-yoga-week to see a list of participating studios.

Coming in June, VA Yoga Week. Visit their site or join their Facebook page for more info!

Becoming Unstuck

2011-05-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

where the light loves to touch your wings

Ahhhhhhhh.......

After months of feeling so stuck I could hardly breathe, the Universe is finally starting to give way. I knew May would be a good month and so far it is rockin' my world with happy news in my home sector. Finally, our house hunt has come to and end and my boyfriend and I'll be moving to new digs very soon! I'm not one to count my chickens before they are hatched, but I have full-faith that everything will go smoothly from here on out.

I'm not taking this as a moment of reprieve because I know there's still work to be done. I'm hoping that this recent energetic opening will kick start things in the right direction. I'm happy to relish in the excitement of our new home (I've been bouncing off the walls all weekend), but that doesn't mean I'm giving up looking for a new job or tackling some other major ideas of mine. If anything, it's putting me head first into my search and giving me more of a reason to find balance in my day-to-day. I keep reminding myself "that which we give our energy to, we empower" so now, as the balls I've been juggling for so long start to land safely in place, I feel like I can focus on what's coming next.

Here's a few things that helped me get through it all...

Get Grounded
If connection is key, then connecting to the earth and vital source is penultimate. Whenever I feel like it's all too much, I try to find a quiet space to close my eyes, connect to my center and breathe to get grounded. Other things that help are walking barefoot in the grass, going for a long walk, kicking off my shoes and scrunching my toes against the floor, re-potting and tending to my plants, and sitting outside to let the wind blow through my hair. Sounds simple, but it works!
Read more »

A Letter to My Mom for Mother's Day

2011-05-06T06:22:00.000-04:00

me and my mom

About eleven years ago, my mom was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Since then, it's been a long battle with numerous surgeries, therapies and everything else that comes along with the disease. Her cancer recently returned and yet again, she grounds herself with indomitable strength and optimism. Through it all, my mom has been a shining light of inspiration and hope. This is my letter to her and to others out there in her situation that continue to hold the light and face their adversity head on.

Mom, this is for you....

******

Dear mom,

On this mother’s day I’d like to take time to express my gratitude for all that you have taught me through the years. The last decade or so has brought a lot of change to our family and through it all you’ve been a shining light of inspiration as you face whatever comes your way with grace and courage. I know it is not always easy, but your fighting spirit and uplifting attitude has carried not only you, but our entire family as well. I don’t think you give yourself enough credit for your strength and it is with this letter that I try to illuminate your shining spirit for all to see.

Frankly, I don’t know how you’ve done it, how you’ve been so strong through it all. Perhaps you felt like you had no other choice. Given the options, I think taking the high road and facing this whole cancer thing head on is way better than lying down and letting it take over you. Sometimes I wonder if I would I be as strong as you if I was in your situation. Would I be able to move through every treatment, every good day, every bad day with such hope? I’m not sure of the answer, but I would like to think I get that fighting spirit from you. Thank you.

Mantra of the Month | The Ganesh Mantra

2011-05-04T08:31:00.000-04:00

Lord Ganesha

It's no secret that I've felt overly stuck in this transitional phase I'm going through and as a "do-er" I get frustrated because nothing I'm "doing" seems to be working. Logically I know that this phase will pass and that everything will work out, but there's still that part of me that doesn't want to stop trying to make change happen. To help me through this difficult time I've added the mantra to Ganesha to help overcome the obstacles before me both mentally and materially.

Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha

Om Salutations and Prostrations to Lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and chanting this mantra invokes Ganesha to remove every impediment in your life. Be mindful, Ganesha will never go thundering through your life making change, but he will help by showing you a way around the obstacles. One example is that he may not be able fix a relationship, but he'll help you find a new one. Another is say you're looking for a raise at work. Ganesha may lead you to a new opportunity with another company that will give you the raise you are looking for. He helps you find other ways around the obstacles rather than charging through them helping you see alternative solutions to your everyday concerns.

One may also chant this mantra before starting a new chapter in their life, whether it is a new job, a new career or just the new year. With the support of Lord Ganesha at your side you're bound to find success in your new endeavors and see your way through, and to, your goals.

Listen to this mantra:

photo by: daybeezho

Hooray for May!

2011-05-02T20:05:00.000-04:00

lovely graffiti Buddha

I'm always very optimistic at the start of a new month and today is no exception. I feel like I've been given a celestial beat-down of sorts recently with April knocking me out for the count and May's sunshine-y days with portent of summer's sweet kiss is just the medicine I need to get me moving and shaking again.

Did you know May is National Meditation Month? Only yesterday I was telling a dear friend that I needed to refocus my meditation practice and it looks now is the perfect time to do so. Not only that but May is the month that we celebrate the Buddha's birthday. Yep, that's right! Typically, every year on the full moon in May, Buddhists from all over the world come to together to celebrate the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha over 2,500 years ago.

Other dates to note:

May 1: May Day
May 3: New Moon, set intentions
May 5: Cinco de Mayo
May 8: Mother's Day. Reach out to mom and Mother Nature and show her you really care!
May 17: Full Moon and Buddha Day
May 30: Memorial Day

I look forward to sharing whatever May come with you this month! ;)

photo by Tim Olson

Book Review | Midnights with the Mystic: A Little Guide to Freedom and Bliss by Cheryl Simone

2011-04-27T17:40:00.000-04:00

"Make every aspect of your life as a stepping stone for a higher possibility."

-Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev

I recently began reading Midnights with the Mystic: A Little Guide to Freedom and Bliss by Cheryl Simone with Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev and quite honestly, I couldn't put it down. I'd not heard of Sadhguru and only barely recollect learning of Isha Yoga during my own research and discovery of the practice, but was immediately enthralled by the clear accessibility of this book.

The premise is, after many years of seeking liberation through the practice of yoga, Ms. Simone comes in contact with Sadhguru and begins to practice Isha Yoga. She finds her health getting better, her spirits lifting and her skepticism starting to wane. Cheryl introduces the reader to Sadhguru in a gentle way, without being overly fanatic. You feel her deep respect for the practice of yoga and for Sadhguru and like the rest of us, she's got lots of [good] questions!

It is when Sadhguru comes to stay with Cheryl for the week at her mountain home that she's able to tap into her natural curiosity about life and liberation and asks those burning questions. In just eight nights they cover topics regarding birth, death, reincarnation, liberation, the Yoga Sutras, health, life purpose and the list goes on and on. I easily became drawn in by the natural flow of the discussion and often felt like I was sitting around the fire with Sadhguru and company!

I truly believe that in order to grow as yogis, we must open our minds and work to eradicate any preconceived notions of what "we think we know." I find it valuable to read about and learn from as many teachers as possible and recommend giving this book a try. Revisiting this knowledge from a different perspective will certainly shed some light and help you see things in a new way.

You can learn more about this book by visiting Cheryl's website and even check out videos and blog posts with Sadhguru himself.

Learning to Play the Bowl

2011-04-25T14:02:00.000-04:00

I participated in a super fun Easter egg hunt with my boyfriend's family yesterday. It's a great tradition and something I have enjoyed taking part in. As we deciphered each clue, we made our way throughout the house and the property looking for our wares. My last gift, much to my surprise, was my very own Tibetan Singing Bowl! It is very similar to the one pictured above and I can't wait to learn how to play it.

Tibetan Singing Bowls are perfect for anyone that meditates, from the novice to the experienced. They come in all shapes in sizes from those you hold comfortably in your had to those you sit on the floor. The vibrations of the singing bowls have the same wavelength found in the brainwaves and produce feelings of relaxation and are incredibly healing. They are used for meditation, music, relaxation, personal well-being, religious or spiritual practice and sound therapy/healing.
Read more »

Aparigraha: No Strings Attached

2011-04-21T14:02:00.001-04:00

"aparigraha sthairye janma kathanta sambodhah" YS 2.39

When we are established in non-greed or non-attachment, the nature and purpose of existence is understood.

I think of all the yamas, Aparigraha is the easiest to understand yet one of the hardest to maintain. Pantajali states that practicing non-attachment leads us to a clear mind free from obligations so that we can easily see our true nature. Seems simple enough, but if you put it into action for a day or so and you'll begin to see just how attached you are to the people, places, and things in your life. Don't panic, remember you're human and work with this yama to make space in your life.

In the simplest form aparigraha, loosely translated as non-greed, non-hoarding, or non-attachment, can be practiced with material objects. Sure, I'd love a new, larger television, spiffier clothes and a bigger house, but do I really need it? In the moment, it may seem worthwhile, but over time I've learned that I don't need those things to be content and happy. I've come to understand that these material objects don't define me as a person and may lead to suffering as their luster wears off and I find I'm too attached. I'm sure by now you've come across Hoarding: Buried Alive. I feel claustrophobic just watching the show and nine times out of ten, the people on those shows do too, overcompensating for feeling of loss and distress by filling the "void" with tons of stuff.

Asana Series: Adho Mukha Svanasana | Downward Facing Dog

2011-04-19T19:14:00.000-04:00

photo by Mina Habibi

(AH-doh MOO-kah shvah-NAHS-anna)
adho = downward
mukha = face
svana = dog

One of the most popular poses practiced in yoga is Adho Mukha Svanasana, or Downward Facing Dog. Almost everyone I meet has some knowledge of this pose and you can find it translated across many lineages. Why? This asana is a great "home base" for any practice as well as a good transition point for different standing poses. You can practice down dog to warm up the body for a gentle class or use it during your "vinyasa" for a more vigorous practice. For me, finding my way to down dog quickly helps me identify where I'm at on my mat each day, sort of like a compass. I can easily sense if I'm too tight in one area or ready to go just by moving into and out of the pose. Practicing this posture helps to strengthen and lengthen the body as well as stretch and open the backs of the legs and torso.

photo by Mina Habibi

To practice, find your way to table position (on all fours with hands under shoulders and knees under hips). Spread the fingers wide and engage the palms of the hands to the ground. Start to roll the shoulders away from the ears and pull the belly button in and up to support the spine. Tuck your toes and slowly start to straighten your legs so that your hips rise towards the sky. Push down through your heels to stretch the legs and slightly rotate your thighs inwards. This will help to open the backs of the legs. Turn you gaze towards your belly button or thighs. Keep the arms engaged so that the shoulders can roll away from the ears. Fingers should be spread nice and wide, like starfish. Keep feet hips distance apart, which is about two fists distance. Eventually the heels will engage with the floor and your head may come close to the mat as you work with this pose to get long and strong!

Note: many traditions will vary on the distance between the feet. I like to practice with the feet at hips distance as it helps to move to and from standing poses and keeps me aligned.
Read more »

Inspiration Station

2011-04-12T18:50:00.000-04:00

I've been feeling a little lackluster in the inspiration arena this past week or so. Granted, I've been traveling for work and came home only to be greeted by a nasty cold, so really, I haven't had much time to be completely inspired. I find this feeling creeps up when I've bitten off more than I can chew or if my energies are not really focused in the right areas. It can be a little unnerving for me but I know from experience that inspiration will come knockin' at my door sooner or later.

I wouldn't say I'm having a writer's block, but more a creativity gap. I know that it will pass as soon as I get back to my regularly scheduled activities, but it often leaves me feeling anxious. I hear this little voice in the back of my mind that says "you know, you haven't posted recently" or "when was the last time you picked up your book," things of that nature. When this voice creeps up, I try, with as much patience and non-judgment as possible, to relax and let go. I remind myself that this blog will be here when I'm ready and I know it's better to write about things that are important to me than to force the fluff. I feel like I've set some interminable deadline for myself, or rather, my overly ambitious self has set for myself, and I have to work to calm the little voice inside so that I can focus on the task at hand. Then, when there's enough space, I start to find ways to ignite inspiration again.
Read more »

Mantra of the Month | Mangala Charn Mantra

2011-04-04T19:01:00.000-04:00

I have been traveling for work today. I often look forward to work trips, but this time, I’m a little anxious about the whole thing. It’s not because of the work I'll be doing, instead I’ve recently had some setbacks with my health and I’d much rather be taking the time to heal. I have to go, it's part of my job, so I’m trying to make the most of the situation, using this trip as an opportunity to exercise boundaries when necessary and take things moment by moment.

Last night as I was packing I kept trying to think of mantra that would help calm my nerves for the trip. Out of nowhere "Aad Guray Nameh, Jugaad Guray Nameh..." popped into my head and I knew it was the perfect choice. This is a Kundalini mantra for protection and invokes the protective energy of the universe. Yogi Bhajan said "when you cannot be protected, this mantra shall protect you. When things stop, and won’t move, this makes them move in your direction." This mantra should be chanted at least three times in succession from a comfortable seated position.

Aad Guray Nameh
Jugaad Guray Nameh
Sat Guray Nameh
Siri Guru Dayvay Nameh

Translation:

I bow to the Primal Wisdom.
I bow to the Wisdom through the Ages.
I bow to the True Wisdom.
I bow to the great, unseen Wisdom

My favorite recording of this mantra is from Snatam Kaur (see video below). It’s slow, rhythmic and enchanting.

Good news! Even with a three hour delay and very turbulent flight, I made it safe and sound to my destination.Whenever I felt the nerves begin to rise, I came back to my breath and this mantra and was safely carried through.

Listen and enjoy for yourself!

Fool Me Once...Hello April!

2011-04-01T16:27:00.000-04:00

Happy April Fool's Day!

Hmm, I guess depending on the nature of your day and possible pranks you may have encountered, it may not be not so happy for you. So far, so good on my end (knock on wood), but there's still many hours left in the day and well, you just never know what's coming. Whatever practical jokes come your way, try your best to have fun and enjoy the moment. Considering all the recent bad news, most notably the earthquake in Japan, a few good laughs with friends seems appropriate.

I'm having a hard time believing it's April already. For starters, I feel like only yesterday I was celebrating my birthday and the start of the year. I don't even know where the time has gone. Whenever I find myself feeling this way, I remind myself that I can't make time slow down, but I can bring myself to the present moment and in that way, aim to enjoy every last second of it.

I'm looking forward to April and to the start of spring, which by the way is getting off to a sloooooww start here on the east coast. No worries! Before I know it warmer days will be here and for now, I am grateful that the days are getting longer. I'm ready to take advantage of those extra hours of daylight!

April dates to note:
April 1: April Fool's Day...go on, have a little fun!
April 3: New Moon. Set your intentions for the month ahead.
April 16: Emancipation Day observed in DC.
April 17/18: Full Moon
April 23: Mercury returns to normal and ends retrograde cycle.
April 22: Earth Day. What will you do to celebrate the earth on this day?
April 29: Arbor Day. You know how much I love trees. Plant a tree and give back to Mother Nature.

Book Review | Yoga Mat Companion 3: Anatomy for Backbends and Twists

2011-03-31T14:30:00.000-04:00

You my recall that last month I shared the Free E-book Anatomy for Yoga: Tips and Techniques, Book 1 from Ray Long, MD of Bandha Yoga. Well, I'm just as excited this month to talk about their newest collection, the Yoga Mat Companion Series, and in particular Yoga Mat Companion 3: Anatomy for Back Bends and Twists.

There's a wealth of information here! First, the book is very beautifully put together. It is not only eye catching, but is also well organized breaking down the importance of each asana and how it affects the body, what muscles to use and proper alignment for your practice. Sections include preparation poses, depicted with those cool little wooden artist's figures, so you can learn the pose at different levels and work your way through it gradually. Finally, Dr. Ray breaks down the pose simply, walking you through the usage of specific muscles for each asana. And of course, all of the poses are artfully illustrated so you get a clear idea on just what is supposed to be happening when working with the pose.

You can skim through the Yoga Mat Companion 3 and others in the series by visiting the DailyBandha.com. I'm sure you'll find, just as I have, that they are a great addition to any yogi wishing to go further in their asana practice.

Yoga challenge: Pick a new pose to try each week. This will help to cultivate your personal practice and give you a chance to explore each asana on your own. Start with the preparation and when you're ready, move to the next until you have mastered each pose! Remember to consult a teacher if you have questions. You want to be mindful of your body and avoid injury whenever you start a new practice.

No Need to Apologize: Overusing "I'm Sorry"

2011-03-30T15:20:00.001-04:00

As I mentioned my Off the Mat training was an amazing experience. I left feeling inspired, invigorated and above all else, empowered. Something that came to light during the training is actually something that I've been working on for a long time, which is to stop apologizing for things that are not my fault. There are many times when I find myself saying "I'm sorry" when there's really no reason for it. Yes, I am mature enough to admit when I've done something wrong and will give my apologies to the other party if it is necessary. But when I find myself apologizing for things that are beyond my control (like most things in life, right?), I realize that all I'm doing is giving away my power to that other person or situation. I am effectively dis-empowering myself right before my eyes!

I never thought about it until a few years ago when I was working at the National Gallery of Art as an event planner. If you know anything about event planning, then you know that something inevitably goes wrong. No matter how much you prepare or how many plans A, B, C and D you have, there's bound to be something that doesn't always go as seamlessly as you'd like. It's one of the thrills of event planning. The quick-thinking and problem solving is an adrenaline junkies dream! While working at the NGA I was tasked with lots of detailed work and sometimes, things just didn't go right. Instead of understanding that I did my best and moving on, I found myself apologizing for the most minor things. It wasn't until a colleague confronted me saying "quit apologizing already" that I realized I had been doing all along.

Saying I'm sorry in this situation meant I was internalizing all of these mishaps as something I did wrong rather than dealing with the ups and downs of the job and the situation. This put undue stress on me and most likely my co-workers as well. If I had bypassed the "I'm sorry" when it wasn't necessary and stopped taking on those mistakes, than I could have let go and moved on much more smoothly.
Read more »

Brahmacharya: Sex and the Yogi

2011-03-26T09:24:00.000-04:00

Brahmacharya is the one yama that I find a different definition for in almost every book or lecture I attend. In the most classical sense, the practice of brahmacharya means celibacy or withholding sexual energy in order to increase one's vigor or virya (vital energy) (see Yoga Sutra 2.38) It is thought that by observing celibacy you preserve your physical, mental, moral, intellectual and spiritual energy.

Modern day yogis say that brahmacharya is acting with moderation in all things and not just sex. In order to live a more balanced life we must refrain from overindulgence in activities of the mind, intellect, speech or body showing moderation on all levels concerning sex, food, and all aspects of daily life, including the environment. It is thought that by satisfying our desires with food, sex, television or other activities masks the emptiness inside. The emptiness that results of our overindulgence is really just spiritual starvation. When we do not nurture our Selves on all subtle layers we end up feeling depleted and overrun. The practice here is not repressing the acts, but learning self-control.

This reminds me of a clip I saw the other day on the Real Housewives of NYC. Bethenny Frankel is talking to a group about the release of her upcoming book, Naturally Thin: Unleash Your SkinnyGirl and Free Yourself from a Lifetime of Dieting and relates the act of sitting in front of the television mindlessly eating a bag of potato chips like having sex and not even realizing it is happening. When your done, you think "what the hell happened?" There's no soul fulfillment in bad sex or overeating and when we snap back to reality we often feel empty inside. This is where moderation and self-control comes in. By taking a deeper look into what triggers us to overindulge we come to understand our motivations and work to make healthier choices. This is no easy feat, believe me. I've definitely uncovered some interesting things through my own practice. Peeling back the layers can be scary, but necessary for one on a spiritual path.
Read more »

Asana Series: Utthita Parsvakonasana | Extended Side Angle

2011-03-21T21:33:00.002-04:00

Extended side angle, hand to floor, all photos by Mina Habibi

Utthita Parsvakonasana

(oo-TEE-tah parsh-vah-cone-AHS-anna)
utthita = extended
parsva = side, flank
kona = angle

Moving on in the asana series, we come to Extended Side Angle or Utthita Parsvakonasana. This pose is great for strengthening the legs and hips, stretching the inner thigh and side body and cultivating a grounding foundation. I like this pose because there are tons of variations. It's super accessible and easy to modify using props.

Practice

Begin by standing in Tadasana (Mountain Pose) at the top of your mat. We'll begin on the right side so exhale and step your left foot back 3 1/2 to 4 feet placing the back foot at a 45 degree angle. Inhale and raise the arms to the horizon of your body. Exhale and bend into the front leg [right] so that the shin is perpendicular to the floor, hips face to the side of your mat. You now find yourself in Virabhadrasana II (Warrior 2).

Extended side angle, first variation

Bend your front [right] arm placing the forearm to the top of the thigh. Raise the back [left] arm up and over the top ear so that fingertips face forward towards the opposite side of the room. Roll the top shoulder away from the ear. Turn your gaze towards your extended fingers. You can stay here or release the front hand to the ground bringing it to the inside, or in some traditions, to the outside of the foot. If you cannot reach the floor comfortably, use a block under your hand to support yourself in this pose or keep the forearm on the thigh. Hold for at least five breaths, after which you can return to stand and repeat on the other side.

Purpose with a Capital P

2011-03-17T19:10:00.000-04:00

I've been out of pocket for the past few days and for good reason. I spent the better half of this past week taking part in the Off the Mat and Into the World Leadership Training with Seane Corn, Hala Khouri and Suzanne Sterling. For the first time in a long time I feel activated. Yes, that's right, I'm on fire, ready and equipped to put some master plans into action. During the week, I met and made new friends with a group of amazing yogis from my community and all over the world. I asked myself some very difficult questions and I experienced true letting go. It was an ecstatic experience to say the least. All that being said, I've needed a few days to begin to process what I learned, most which will unfold through my writing in the weeks and months to come.

Transformational. It's as simple as that. These ladies have put together a program that is supportive, confronting, elevating, inspirational and life changing. There was hardly a dry eye in the room throughout the weekend, but even so, the energy was full of truth and love.

What did I learn? Simply, that I'm already an activist based upon the lifestyle I live and the choices I make daily. Sure, I'm not up there leading a march on Washington, but I'm behind-the-scenes making conscious choices and sharing what I learn to help empower others all in the name of serving the greater good.

But even bigger than that, I got very clear about my purpose in life. To be fair, I've spent the better half of this past year mulling over my purpose. In fact, you may recall the exercise with "what do I love." Well, those post-it notes are still up around my house and I frequently give pause to this question. I keep a list of all of the things that come up around this topic, however it wasn't until this weekend and the work we did that the pieces started to come together. Finally, I started to feel and see how to put it all in to action. It's not just a dream any more, it's real, tangible and so close I can almost reach out and touch it!
Read more »

(Guest Post ) Where Megan Fox and the Dalai Lama Meet by Diana Charabin

2011-03-15T18:35:00.000-04:00

This is the first official guest post for Capricious Yogi. Welcome Diana from TinyDevotions! I hope you all enjoy...

What does a Buddhist monk, a Hindu, a yogi and Megan Fox have in common?

(Tibetan bowl chimes).

I don’t mean to be caprious... but they all wear mala beads.

Mala beads are meditation necklaces or garlands that have been worn for thousands of years in various traditions worldwide. They are made of several different materials including: rudraksha seeds, bodhi tree seeds, rose wood, dried rose petals and tulsi.

Mala beads have become a hip accessory worn by young Hollywood, urban hipsters and casual yogis. Why? Because they look really cool.

Mala beads are earthy and beautiful and there is just something extremely special about these sacred beads. Maybe it is their good energy? Maybe it is because they are traditionally made with 108 beads? (A sacred number).

Whatever it is, we are somehow intrinsically drawn to these rosaries.

But mala beads are traditionally not pieces of jewelry but rather vehicles for meditation through the practice of japa meditation.

Mantra of the Month | Guru Mantra

2011-03-08T07:06:00.000-05:00

Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru devo Maheshwara,
Guru sakshat, param Brahma, tasmai shri guravay nama

Our creation is that Guru,
The duration of our lives is that Guru,
Our trials and the death of the body is that Guru,
There is a Guru that is near by,
And a Guru that is beyond the beyond.
I offer all of my efforts to the Guru...

In almost every class I teach, I like to finish by reciting the Guru mantra. This mantra reminds us that the guru, the one that will leads us from darkness to light, may come in many forms, but is always with us. By reciting this mantra we realize that our own Divine true nature is the light or the guru within.

The mantra asks that we see the guru in all names and forms, and by reciting it, we realize that the guru is every where. The guru can be seen not only in the words of our teachers, but in the faces of our students, the loving embraces of our families and the smiles of passersby. Chanting this mantra also reminds us that the power that will ultimately enlighten us and lead us from the darkness or ignorance (avidya) is with us always.

This mantra is a humble offering to the guru. When we learn to let go of our self-cherishing and pride we find ourselves embraced by the universe and the available to guru for enlightenment.

Listen to hear the Guru mantra.

[photo by Sasha Wolff]

The Simple Things | Finding Mindfulness with a Few Good Houseplants

2011-03-02T17:09:00.000-05:00

photo by Capricious Yogi

I find great pleasure in tending to my plants. After all, I am a self-confessed tree-aholic! And although I'd love to add more plants to my home, the ones I do have keep my 700 sq. ft. apartment feeling warm and inviting. I wouldn't say I have a superior green thumb, there are a few plants that haven't lasted long here, but for the most part we all get along great. Additionally, taking time during the week to water them, clean the leaves away and position them perfectly for sunshine is one way I bring mindfulness to my day.

photo by Capricious Yogi

Most recently my prosperity tree sprouted a new bud. Sure, it's a little out of place. Most prosperity trees have their blooms at the top, but I don't mind. I am so overjoyed to see this new addition every day. What makes this more exhilarating is that this tree is one I rescued from IKEA about a year ago. For too long I had it in a smaller pot, but this fall my boyfriend and I took an afternoon to shop for and re-pot a few of my plants. It was so much fun! At first I wasn't sure if my tree-friend liked his new home, but since he has made his move he has grown leaps and bounds with new buds sprouting up every day, particularly our new friend at his base. My tree is positioned so that it greets me right when I walk in the door and it always makes me smile. It's amazing to know that there is life happening right in front of my eyes and in my own home every day!

I bring this up because it's so easy to get wrapped up in the fluctuations and stressors of the daily grind, but it's truly the little things that help to bring us back to the present moment. Staying present frees us from the suffocating hold of stress. Surrounding ourselves with the things that bring us joy reminds us to slow down and enjoy life. It's in this most simple way that we can breathe mindfulness into every moment.

In what simple ways to do you bring mindfulness to your day?

I'm Seeing Green...Spring is in the Air!

2011-03-01T19:12:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning buzzing with excitement knowing that spring is just around the corner. I can see signs of it everywhere. The days are getting warmer, the trees are starting to bud, the birds are chirping sweetly and winter's grizzly grasp is slowly melting away. Spring symbolizes rebirth and new growth as we witness Mother Nature reawaken after her long winter's nap. Personally, I'm thrilled with the idea of getting outdoors again to soak in the fresh air and sunshine.

This month, make a conscious effort to slow down and become a witness to the signs of spring popping up right under your nose. Plant a new flower, walk barefoot in the grass or take a walk outside to drink in the spring's energy. Taking a few moments each day to experience the beauty and the magic of spring will help you stay present and energized.

Important dates for the month ahead:
March 4: New Moon--set your intentions for the month ahead!
March 12: Plant a Flower Day
March 13: Daylight Savings Time begins
March 17: St. Patrick's Day
March 19: Full Moon
March 20: Spring Equinox
March 22: World Water Day
March 30: Mercury goes retrograde until April 23.

[photo by: freefotouk]

To Know Love, Start With YourSelf

2011-02-26T15:29:00.000-05:00

"Loving oneself is crucial. If we do not love ourselves, how can we love others."
-H.H. Dalai Lama

This quote from my Insight from the Dalai Lama calendar seemed ironically fitting as I wind down the month of February and this talk of love...well some of it that is. :)

His Holiness is right. No matter how much we talk about living a compassionate and loving life, we must first learn to be compassionate and loving to ourselves. How can we practice non-violence towards other beings, without learning to quiet the negative discourse that runs through our minds. How can we possibly know what it means to give love when we are not open and ready to receive love? How can we understand what it means to accept others, even (and most importantly) for their faults if we cannot accept ourselves? Simply put, we can't...not in the sort of way his Holiness means anyway.

As my practice has developed, I have found great strength in learning to accept myself as I am, without apologies. No, I'm not the most beautiful or talented or whatever, but I'm uniquely me and there's no one else like me in the world. I no longer weigh myself every morning, feel bad if I have an extra dessert or beat myself up nearly as much as I used to about petty little things. Sure, I have my moments, but hey...I'm human after all. That's why the practice is so important. We learn through practice that to experience, we must first start with ours[S]elves, both big and small so that gradually, as your practice deepens, your circle of compassion expands beyond yourself.

Learn to love and accept yourself and you will learn what it means to love and accept others.

[photo: Camdiluv ♥ AmmyLynn]

Capricious Yogi

Hindsight is Gaining Perspective, Learning, and Growing. Lessons Learned in Teaching

Coffee Talk | Good Days, Bad Days and the Lessons We Learn from Both

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | The Hardest Part of Yoga Practice is Letting Go

“The moment I let go of it was the moment, I got more than I could handle, The moment I jumped off of it, Was the moment I touched down” -Thank You, Alanis Morrissette

Let Love Shine this February

Getting Out of the Zone...the Comfort Zone

My Guest Post @ Heal Now and Forever | Five Benefits of a Yoga Practice

Are you Practicing Your Yoga?

Advice from a Tree | Birthday Fun and Good Words to Live By

Guest Post | Scared=Sacred by Jodi Lobozzo Aman

January...Wintry Days and Fresh Beginnings

Reflection and Intention for the New Year

Roots, Recognition and Release

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | An Early Morning Respite: Personal Practice Begins with the Breath

Nursing My Yoga Hangover: When a Kick-Ass Class Leaves You Feeling Less Than 100%

Fun E-book: Santa's Christmas Routine from SangaYoga

Step Away From the Machine! A Weekend Off Never Felt So Good.

Music Revew: Sunrise Music by Neil Middleton

What to Do With Down Time?

I Really Love My....Monthly Access Pass to Gaiam TV

December: A Month for Reflection and Relaxation

Thanksgiving Quotes to Share Today and Every Day

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Gratitude Practice: Cut the Stuffing Out & Let Life Overflow

Navigating Transition with Patience and Acceptance

I Really Love My...Energy Charm from Energy Muse

Happy 11.11.11 and Veterans Day!

Now its Time to Say Goodbye...Moving Onwards and Upwards Towards True Purpose

The Life's Hardest Questions Project via Tiny Buddha

November Flow | Riding the Energy of a New Age and Making Time for Gratitude Practice

Taking a Leap of Faith | Trusting Your Intuition and True Heart's Desire

Love to Teach Yoga? Scholarships Available!

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Feeling Empty? Do What Fills You Up!

Weightless by Marconi Union | Eight Minutes of Pure Relaxation

Santosha | Finding Contentment and Happiness in All That You Do

Making the Most of Crazy Dreams and Banishing the Monkey Mind

Mantra of the Month | Sat Nam

Playing the Blame Game | Learning From Mistakes and Moving On

October Love | Getting in Touch with Joy and Practice

Bringing My Practice to The Big Easy. Work calls in New Orleans!

September to Remember | Back to School and Back to the Mat

Working with Grief | Saying Goodbye and Letting Go of Loved Ones

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Practice Intention with a Clear Mind & Open Heart to Expand Your World!

Book Review | Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

Saucha | Acquiring Purity and Clarity for Evenness of Mind

All in Good Time | Manifesting Dreams While Dealing with Reality

Mantra of the Month | So Hum: Contemplate the Breath and Being

Catching up on August Respites | Finding Practice, Balance, and Peace in the Small Moments

Book Review | True Love: A Practice for Awakening the Heart by Thich Nhat Hanh

Infographic | Are You Happy?

Embed the above image on your site

Direct Link

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Dancing with Doubt | 5 Tips for Achieving your Dreams

Sharing Some Great Gifts of My Own!

Why Don't You Stay | Sticking With it Without Going Under

Don't Forget to Breathe....When the Body Can No Longer Hang On

What the World Needs Now is Love | Drop a Love Bomb and Show Someone You Care

Mantra of the Month | Mahamrityunjaya Mantra for Liberation

Celebrating Freedom and Practicing Gratitude on this Fourth of July

Accentuate the Positive! | A Few Thoughts on June...

Get Grounded | Getting Your Head Out of the Clouds and Your Feet Back on the Ground

Asana Series: Balasana | Child's Pose

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | HELP: Not Your Average 4-Letter Word | A Practice in Seeking and Accepting Help

It's All About Community | Virginia Yoga Week | June 12-19

Support a Good Cause | To Haiti With Love DC | June 18

My Guest Interview @ Teach Street | Where Yoga, Acting and Writing Meet

Mantra of the Month | Om Namah Shivaya

Facebook Giveaway | Free Yoga Retreat at Kripalu

Kicking Off Summer and Getting Ready For The Month Ahead!

Do Your Best and People Will Notice | Words of Wisdom From Oprah's Master Class Series

Dreams: More Than a Wish Your Heart Makes

Taking the First Step | Yama of the Yoga Sutras

My Guest Post @ Yoganonymous | Find the Fun in Every Moment & Connect to What Brings you Joy!

Book Reviews | Learning from the Masters: Krishnamacharya and Paramahansa Yogananda

Get Out, Get Moving, Get Inspired-DC Yoga Week | May 15-21!

Becoming Unstuck

A Letter to My Mom for Mother's Day

Mantra of the Month | The Ganesh Mantra

Hooray for May!

Book Review | Midnights with the Mystic: A Little Guide to Freedom and Bliss by Cheryl Simone