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The Gift of Yoga (#ShopSmall)

The Gift of Yoga (#ShopSmall)

The other day, as I was setting up the lights in my living room to film some new Stay-at-Home Yoga classes, my daughter came in the room. With an excited tone she asked, "Are you getting ready to teach people yoga, mama?" As she went upstairs with her dad and brother to let me work, I was overwhelmed with joy. I certainly make my share of parenting mistakes, but I think I'm getting this right. When she sees me working to grow my little business and do work I'm passionate about, I'm showing…Read more
Begin

Begin

  Begin. Right now. There will always be resistance. There’s no shortage of excuses, some of them valid. But start now anyway. Start small if you like. Do one pose. Pick one you don’t even need a yoga mat for, like Tadasana (Mountain Pose). Observe how your mood shifts as your practice. What happens with your breath, your tension, your thoughts? Then go back to what you were doing, but decide when you’ll come back. You’ve already taken the first step. (It felt good didn’t it?) Make a date to take another. May…Read more
Bend Without Breaking

Bend Without Breaking

Flexibility is, quite simply, the ability to bend without breaking. It is also the first word that many people associate with a yoga practice. This week, within the framework of stability you established last week, allow your muscles to lengthen and your joints to open. Linger in a pose that lengthens the hamstrings. Soak in a hip opener for a few extra breaths. Off the mat, cultivate the ability in your heart and mind to bend without breaking. Allow your deepest values and beliefs to create a strong, stable framework. But, be flexible…Read more
Natural Birth Stories {A Giveaway}

Natural Birth Stories {A Giveaway}

When describing my labor before my son's birth, I often say, "I was in the zone." My mind and body where working in perfect harmony. My focus was laser sharp. It was amazing. But, that wasn't just a happy accident. I prepared for that process both physically and mentally. My sweet friend, Shannon Brown of GrowingSlower, has just released an amazing new book that is sure to help women mentally prepare for natural childbirth. Natural Birth Stories is a beautiful and encouraging read. With 32 positive natural birth stories (including my own VBAC!) and…Read more
Stability Invites Fluidity

Stability Invites Fluidity

It is tempting to think that your yoga practice is all about movement. After all, we live in a time and place that demands very little in the way of physical movement (though our health requires it). Yet, there is something that must come before movement, both on and off the mat. Stability is the invitation for fluidity. Without boundaries water simply dissipates. But, within the banks of a stream, it is invited to flow. This week, be mindful of the anchor in each pose. What part of your body is moving down…Read more