INSPIRE • EDUCATE • CONNECT NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 Detoxing Poses for immunity & stress relief Jason Mraz Celebrate the Ordinary Moments TM Page 66 Anniversary Issue THE FUTURE CELEBRATE THE PAST, EMBRACE Yoga professionals weigh on the benefits of celebrating. Display until December 30, 2015 to Beat the Holiday Blues 4 Energy Boosting Practices HOLIDAY APPETIZERS AYURVEDA this season with and Healthy Stay Happy Yoga Getaway Guide www.yogadigest.com
Transcript
I N S P I R E • E D U C A T E • C O N N E C T
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015
Detoxing Posesfor immunity & stress relief
JasonMrazCelebrate the Ordinary Moments
TM
Page 66
Anniversary
Issue
THE FUTURE
CELEBRATETHE PAST,EMBRACE
Yoga professionals weigh on the benefits of celebrating. Display until December 30, 2015
to Beat the Holiday Blues
4 EnergyBoostingPractices
HOLIDAYAPPETIZERS
AYURVEDAthis season with
and HealthyStay Happy
YogaGetaway
Guide
www.yogadigest.com
Publisher Yoga Digest, LLC
Founders &Chief Editors Jenn Bodnar Cody Groth
Senior Columnists Kurt Johnsen Glenna B. Musante Cary Caster
Senior Contributor Kim Bauman
Contributors Angela Ambrose Jen Carter Avgerinos Brian Crawford Keith Donahue Jay Fishman Meenakshi Gupta Kiera Nachman Melanie Taylor Cathy Woods James McCrae
Cover Photo Jen Rosenstein
Magazine Designer Zoran Maksimovic
Advertise yogadigest.com/advertise
Subscriptions yogadigest.com/subscribe
Mailing Address Yoga Digest, LLC 950 E State HWY 114, Ste 160 Southlake TX, 76092
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015
Publisher Yoga Digest, LLC
Founders &Chief Editors Jenn Bodnar Cody Groth
Senior Columnists Kurt JohnsenGlenna B. Musante
Senior Contributor Kim Bauman
Contributors Angela Ambrose Erin Bryon Bob Butera Cary Caster Tiffany Cruikshank Staffan Elgelid Scot C. Farber Lauren Peterson J. Donathan Price Carol Roberts Rich Roll Beth Shaw Jeramie Vaine Sean Vigue Lauren Walker Cathy Woods
You cannot create great new beginnings until you sin-cerely celebrate the endings that precede them. With that, we want to send our sincerest expression of grat-itude out to those who helped us bring Yoga Digest to you this past year. We are so humbled by the teachers, the writers, the photographers, the wellness advocates, and all the amazing people who contributed to our first 6 issues! We are excited to share updates from many of them like our very first cover features, Kathryn Budig and DJ Drez, plus many, many more in our Stop, Drop and Celebrate 5 feature on page 12.
The holidays are a great time to reflect on the past year. As you think about your experiences, keep in mind these 4 reasons to reflect and celebrate: • By celebrating success, we open ourselves up to more
abundance and manifest more to celebrate in our lives.• Celebration is emotional nourishment. We reinforce
our progress and success.
• When we celebrate we are aware, in the present mo-ment and enjoying the journey!
• Celebrating builds confidence and belief in our abilities.
This issue was created with love, authenticity and people who have been there with us since day one! In it you will find tips on Ayurveda, essential oils and of course, yoga! Enjoy insight and inspiration from Jason Mraz on page 8 and learn about the largest group meditation in history lead by Gabby Bernstein and Deepak Chopra on page 60.
Finally, we thank you, the readers, for your incredible support. We hope you enjoy this special anniversary issue as much as we enjoyed creating it and hope you will celebrate the next 6 and more with us!
Be thankful for every memory you had this past year. The good ones made you smile
and the bad ones made you stronger.Publisher Yoga Digest, LLC
Founders &Chief Editors Jenn Bodnar Cody Groth
Senior Columnists Kurt JohnsenGlenna B. Musante
Senior Contributor Kim Bauman
Contributors Angela Ambrose Erin Bryon Bob Butera Cary Caster Tiffany Cruikshank Staffan Elgelid Scot C. Farber Lauren Peterson J. Donathan Price Carol Roberts Rich Roll Beth Shaw Jeramie Vaine Sean Vigue Lauren Walker Cathy Woods
Robert SturmanThe subject of two New York Times articles, Robert Sturman’s art captures the timeless grace and embodied mindfulness of asana. A dedicated yoga practitioner himself, Sturman’s work has increasingly gestured at something beyond the physical, something transcendent. His stun-ning repertoire runs the gamut from yogis perched on rocks sur-rounded by the Pacific ocean, to African orphans practicing yoga in Kenya, to breast cancer survivors, bare-chested and scarred.
Sturman’s portraits, whether set in the lively streets of Manhattan, the expansiveness of Malibu’s beaches and canyons, the time-less elegance of Walden’s New England, or the bleakness of San Quentin Prison, remind us that there is beauty everywhere. www.RobertSturmanStudio.comInstagram@robertsturman
Jonah KestJonah Kest was born into a yoga legacy. With his father, vinyasa yoga pioneer Jonny Kest, and his mother, Milla Kest, as one of the first yoga business owners and yoga teacher training programs in the Midwest – he was destined to follow the path. At the age of three, Jonah was walk-ing the yoga room with his dad and shortly thereafter he began to learn the importance of a daily practice and evening meditation. At 17, Jonah trained under his father to become a teacher. Today, Jonah is a well traveled ashtanga/vinyasa teacher whose classes are both graceful and intense. His plant based diet and love for creating raw, rich, vegan meals has also become a passion and healing modality. Follow Jonah on Instagram@kestyoga
Erin Sanders Erin Sanders has been practicing yoga for over 16 years. In that time, yoga has become a passion, and a calling. Along with her acting career, Erin is on a mission to bring the beauty and serenity of yoga to as many people as possible.
Erin believes that yoga is all about connection: To breath, to movement, and to yourself. She deeply cares about helping students find an element in their practice that is very personal to them, and provides them with tools they can use to take control of their yoga practice, and truly make it their own. www.ErinTeachesYoga.com
Taylor HarknessTaylor is a yoga teacher bent on moving people both on and off the mat with skillful action, an open heart, and gratitude. An avid rock climber, yogi, rookie sky diver, excited learn-er, foodie, traveler at heart, and paramedic-- he applies these experiences of life to his teach-ings and to instructing mindful, accessible, super playful asana and smart philosophy.
For more info and to find his global schedule, visit www.TaylorHarkness.com or practice online with him at www.yogaglo.com.
Photo by Jake Spencer
YOGA DIGESTMeet the 2015-2016
4
WARRIORSGina DunnGina Dunn is the Yoga Director at We Yogis in Dallas, Texas and founder of Asana Dealers. She loves the feeling of flow...that state of when things seem to unfold naturally and organically. The true prize of the practice for her lies in the process of strengthening the body, breaking through per-sonal barriers, and achieving a state where our bodies be-come conduit for the energy we create. Yoga opened her heart and Dunn feels privi-leged to share this gift with her students. Her classes are a dynamic, energizing blend of focused breath and flowing postures that energize the body and calm the mind. Off the yoga mat Dunn is an Artist, and brings her creative side to teaching. www.WeYogis.com Instagram@AsanaDealersFacebook@AsanaDealers
Anton MackeyAnton Mackey is based in Phoenix, Arizona. He teach-es vinyasa flow and power classes and workshops at several yoga studios through-out the Greater Phoenix area. He guest teaches across the country at studios and festi-vals and leads yoga retreats all around the world. He is a faculty teacher for multiple Teacher Training programs. His background is in Anato-my and Physiology and has a degree in Kinesiology from Arizona State University.www.AntonYoga.com Instagram@antonyoga11
Andrew SealyAndrew Sealy is a connection catalyst, a yoga artist, and a movement creator. His days are spent traveling to find adventure, practicing to cultivate growth, and constantly absorbing wisdom to creating new experiences that he shares with love to his friends around the world. The continuous self discovery process of yoga compels Andrew to embody progressive knowledge while positively influencing and empowering his students. Andrew’s teachings aim to answer the question: How can we adapt to create and evolve to sustain? Instagram@andrew7sealy | [email protected]
YOGA GETAWAY IN BEAUTIFULLake Chelan, Washington . . . . . 58
by Kim Bauman
by Cary Caster by Kim Bauman
by James McCrae
by Glenna B. Musante
by Meenakshi Gupta
by Jay Fishman
by Kiera Nachman
by Melanie Taylor
by Cathy Woods
by Jen Carter Avgerinos
by Angela Ambrose
by Jenn Bodnar
by Jenn Bodnar
by Keith Donahue
by Jenn Bodnar
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26
40
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WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM 7
A fter I hung up the phone with Jason Mraz, I sat in stillness. First, being mesmerized by the fact that I had the opportunity to write a
story about one of my favorite superheroes for love and social advocacy. Second, by how inspired and awake I was to the possibility of any and every moment in life being a celebration.
How often do you find yourself doing something the same way over and over again? Being a creature of habit, I am all too familiar with the same ol’ same ol’… the same route to work, the same thing for breakfast, taking the same yoga class, and even down to familiar ways of being the same, same, same.
From a small age, Mraz knew he wanted to sing. “I remember at age 7 stepping up onto my grandma’s fire-place and just singing. Every chance I got, I was being self-expressive through my singing. It was as if that was all I knew, it was natural, I was out of my head, and just being what I was supposed to be,” says Mraz.
At age 20, Mraz packed up his life and drove from his hometown in Virginia to San Diego, California to pursue his singing career. “I cried the whole drive there. Because I just knew. I knew this wasn’t going to be just a visit, I knew I wasn’t coming back. I was stepping into something bigger and following my calling in life,” says Mraz.
At that time in San Diego, a coffee shop called Java Joe’s was the place to be. Here, Mraz performed live every week for over 2 years, before receiving a record deal in 2002. “It wasn’t that I remember a specific mo-ment where I made it big, or that I could feel that this was the moment when the world would realize me. It was more so that I was just doing what I was supposed to. I was singing,” Mraz quotes.
Do you remember singing to the main chorus of the childhood song, Old McDonald Had a Farm…
Celebrate theOrdinary Moments
“Through yoga I’ve learned that
how we do one thing is how
we do everything…” —Jason Mraz
BY KIM BAUMAN PHOTOS BY JEN ROSENSTEIN
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM8
“E I E I O”?! As a way of creating a mantra, or a set of inspirational guidelines during songwriting and tour production, Mraz says he titled E I E I O as an acronym:
Entertain – is it fun?Inspire – will people light up?Educate – what do I want to be received by others?I am... being honest in the work – who am I being?OMG, this is the best show I’ve ever seen –
will people have a blast?
About 10 years ago Mraz was exposed to yoga through his manager. Like a lot of things in life, we have to expe-rience something firsthand in order to be a true advocate for it. As Mraz began to practice, he realized that yoga was far beyond just the physical asanas or postures, and rather a way of being and a way of living. It was access to being more mindful with words, thoughts, and reactions. It was a space to cultivate understanding, compassion, and service to the world.
Mraz began to experience these benefits the year he brought a yoga teacher on tour, where practicing daily became methodical. Mraz went on to say, “I was experi-encing the true impact of yoga and could see how it was changing my life. When life feels routine, I look to see how I can celebrate ordinary moments and yoga did just this. It took the routine out of our tour and propelled us into clearer intended days, where our purpose to infuse the world with love, through music, was renewed.”
Mraz says, “Through yoga I’ve learned that how we do one thing is how we do everything. If I’m beating myself up on the mat for not being able to balance in a pose, there’s a resemblance off the mat in how I can get in my head and beat myself up over certain situations in life.”
“On our recent tour in Taiwan, I noticed a guy in the crowd, Stan, who had an instrument, so I decided to bring him up on stage. Not only did he have this homemade shaker instrument, but he was also brilliant at singing! So it was very endearing to have him on stage, and performing live together. I called Stan up on a whim because when on tour, I want to look for new ways to make each moment memorable, and I want to include others to make it meaningful for them too,” said Mraz.
It’s clear that Mraz has a big heart. What shines through to so many of his fans is how he sees the world as one. Mraz says, “We are all different, we are not the same, but we ARE all equal and giving back is essential to humanity.” The Jason Mraz Foundation was created to be able to give back to the world as a way to inspire change in the human experience, through advancing equality, promoting the arts, empowering through ed-ucation and preserving the environment.
“When I became a homeowner, I discovered an appre-ciation for our Earth that I was intrigued by, and what it means to be sustainable and to support local efforts,”
related Mraz. As we continued our conversation, Mraz went on to share how even the daily acts of pruning a tree or picking an avocado can be special. “When I stop to look around and see all I have, that’s when abundance pours in. Being grateful for what I have and for where I am is what makes the simple seem grand.”
Mraz is also a huge backer of the organization SPARC (School of Performing Arts in the Richmond Communi-ty), a program that he was a part of while growing up. SPARC is all about celebrating being human, bringing the performing arts to life, with the students of any race, disability, gender, religion, nationality, sexual orientation or family status being the stars of the show. “I want to celebrate kids from all walks, and contributing to causes such as SPARC gives me that purpose,” adds Mraz.
Currently, Mraz is focusing on writing and creating a new album. He finds the calm of meditation in farming and caring for his property, as well as learning new ways of living healthy, and giving back.
To read more, please visit www.jasonmraz.com
Kim Bauman Founder, The One Love Movement
“Being grateful for what I have
and for where I am is what
makes the simple seem grand.”—Jason Mraz
Website: www.jointheonelovemovement.orgFacebook: The One Love MovementInstagram: @theonelovemovement
Starving TigerIf you are PASSIONATE about something, then DO it. If you create excuses and begin to complain – STOP immediately…you don’t want it bad enough and, not to be negative, but you’re just
not hungry enough. Be okay with that, and find some-thing you are passionate about.A tiger knows it has to eat to survive – make your dream about survival. Execute your dream, get out of
the way, or help others make their dreams reality.“Death is the greatest teacher in all of life.” — Michael Singer
Perfect Unicorn
She, he, it – doesn’t exist. I am a recov-
ering perfectionist – this is my kryptonite. I
want everything at kevala to be the best, and
I am learning to focus on the QUALITY of a
product or service…make quality perfect, and
have compassion for yourself when you fail.
“Quality is the best business plan.”
— John Lassester
WorkWeekends don’t exist as an entre-preneur, you work every day. If you take a vacation – you are usually unplugging electron-ically to reboot spiritually. You celebrate obstacles as
ways to improve, you don’t resist reality; and procrastina-tion leaves the building or your dream will become extinct.
BLEED your mission to the point where you become delusion-al. Praise others; hate is meaningless. Become so focused and
committed that work becomes a lifestyle of serving others.Most importantly, if you don’t feel LONELY then realize you’re not on the right track…yes, you heard me correctly. You will feel PAIN
because you are sacrificing everything to better yourself and the planet. If you quit, the pain will stay. Do the work.
“Don’t quit. You’re already in pain. You’re already hurt. Get a reward from it.”
— Eric Thomas
Dream Inking
A dream doesn’t mean being the best at some-
thing, or achieving grandiose goals. It’s anything inside
you asking for attention (and won’t shut up). Things like:
become yoga certified, get married, go back to school, raise a
dog, adopt a child, read a book monthly, learn guitar, attend two
social events a week, meditate daily, take a vacation, quit a job, end
a relationship, kiss daily, start smoking (stop judging), ask for a raise,
ask them out, no cellphone after 9 pm, move cities, become a vegetar-
ian, see a therapist, laugh more often, volunteer – whatever!
WRITE your goals out with timetables and POST them in a visible
spot to be read daily. Why? Numerous studies state that writing and
reading your goals significantly increases chances for success.
Write in the present tense and take action.
Example – February 2016: kevala receives
$250K in funding.
“You don’t need more time,
you just need to decide.”
— Seth Godin
11
We are so excited to celebrate our 1st Anniversary! It reminded us
to take a look back at all the beautiful souls who helped us get here.
We challenge you to stop what you’re doing, drop everything, and celebrate
5 milestones from the past year
W hy 5? The number 5 is the most dynamic and energetic of all the single-digit numbers. It is unpre-
dictable, always in motion and constantly in need of change. Numerology states the number 5 relates to making positive life choices and decisions and learning life lessons through experience. Most importantly, we can’t wait
to celebrate 5 years of Yoga Digest, so we are planting the seed!
Are you still thinking of your 5? Need some inspiration? Check out what our Yoga Digest community had to say. In the following pages, you will see what some of the Yoga Digest pioneers have celebrated in the past year and why they believe it’s important to stop, drop and celebrate!
Stop, Drop and
Celebrate
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM12
Amy Ippoliti“I’m a big fan of celebrat-ing our achievements in life. Some might say it’s “not yogic” to focus on our success, however most of us spend far too much time looking at what’s going wrong and ruminat-ing on our failures. The only reason to look at our mishaps is to learn from them and do better the next time. When I started making a point of cele-brating my successes and wins - no matter how big or how small, not only did my outlook on life become more positive, more oppor-tunities for success and achievement came to me!
1Swam and did yoga under-water with three different species of wild dolphins as part the marine conservation work we do.
2Started rebuilding an old home with my partner. We are using sustainable build-ing materials and alternative energy which has been a dream for both of us!
3Ran our 200 hour, month long teacher training with an incredible group from all over the world.
4Submitted the final manu-script of our book to the pub-lisher - coming out in 2016!
5Traveled to the Gaia Herb farm in North Carolina, got to dig in the dirt, eat delicious home grown food, and learned all about herbal supplements and sustainable farming.
13
Brian Crawford
1As a photographer specializing in yoga, I completed an
incredible world tour of more than one hundred days vis-
iting Dubai, UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Singapore,
Malaysia, Cambodia, and Indonesia (Jakarta, Flores
Island, Bali). I met more than fifty incredible yogis.
2Being a recognized photographer specializing in yoga
photography, I had the honor of being able to collab-
orate in yoga specialized publications such as Boys of
Yoga and this wonderful magazine, Yoga Digest.
3Throughout my travels, I learned different cultures,
languages, food, and, most importantly, about myself. I
learned that I am stronger willed than I thought I was, es-
pecially, when it comes to controlling my addictive per-
sonality. When I was traveling on the road, I was a little
worried that it would be difficult for me to remain sober
and clear headed. Currently, I’ve been walking the path
of sobriety for almost four years. Trusting in my spiritual
journey and knowing that alcohol and drugs aren’t a
healthy, positive part of my life was a great reminder in
those lonely times while traveling alone.
4Learning and enjoying Yoga with this fantastic yogi
community has definitely been an accomplishment. It
has truly inspired me to improve upon my craft. After
being hospitalized for a lower back injury, I realized
one year ago that I really had to start taking my yoga
practice more seriously.
5Getting tips from some of the most respected yogis in
our community has truly been a blessing. I met beau-
tiful people around the world. I discovered generosity,
warmth, friendship, and love that filled my heart and soul
with positivity and an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
I have much to celebrate and share with you today.
Happy first birthday, Yoga Digest Magazine!
Namaste.
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM14
David Romanelli5 milestones each of which was cause for celebration in 2015:
1Became a father. I had heard that when your baby smiles at you, it awakens virgin territo-ry in your soul. That is TRUTH!
2Published a book, Happy is the New Healthy. In a way, this is like having a baby. A labor of love. Everytime I see someone post an Instagram pic with the book, i remember that life is not about reaching the multitudes, but one person at a time!
3Launched a business, Meditate ON. It’s an online meditation program that makes meditation…entertainment. Day by day, step by step, breath by breath, I celebrate and nurture it’s growth.
4Made peace with myself. Woah this has been a hard one. Each day we are faced with a decision to be happy, to be grateful, to wrap our arms around life instead of push it away. Finally i decided to be happy and embrace the journey, even when it’s a rocky patch.
5Developed a new habit. To start and end the day with breathing instead of emailing. Makes a huge difference to bookend the day inhaling life…. instead inhaling information!
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO CELEBRATE?I was in rural Alaska on a camping trip with a friend. We needed a taxi to take us back to our car. The taxi driver shared a very awakening story. He had just left hospice where his father passed away.
My friend and I said, “We’re so sorry to hear about that.”
But the taxi driver said, “Don’t be sorry. It was actually really wonderful. I got to know my dad in a way I never knew him before. We spent everyday of the last 6 months together. We talked, we listened to every pitch of opening day baseball on the radio. We bonded. But why, why, why did I wait 50 years to get to know my dad until the last 6 months of his life?”
He reminded us, “Don’t wait. Enjoy your journey. Celebrate the small victories and simple pleasures each day.”
15
DJ Drez
1This past year has been
an amazing adventure. I
mentioned in the 1st is-
sue that I was releasing
an album with my wife
Marti Nikko. We did.
2“Dreaming In Sanskrit” hit
number 1 on the iTunes
world music charts.
3It also hit number 3
on the Billboard World
Music charts.
4Its been years since
we’ve toured together
and this release provid-
ed many fresh opportu-
nities for us to share the
stage again.
5We are currently re-
cording random ideas
of what will turn into our
next album.
It’s important to
take time to celebrate.
Acknowledging my ac-
complishments, good
deeds, and to recog-
nize exactly where I’m
at keeps me awake to
the present. Celebra-
tions can be simple like
taking a walk in nature
or allowing positive
thoughts to flow. It
doesn’t always have to
be a party with gifts.
That being said, par-
ties are good, too. It
is fun celebrating each
other together.
16
Jonny KestThis year was !*@#ing amazing!
1Yoga retreat in Capri, Italy.Milla and I held our first yoga retreat overseas. Over 30 yogis attended on the beautiful island of Capri, Italy.
2Vipassana Meditation.Sat a 10 day and served a 10 day Vipassana meditation course with my 18 year old son Jonah.
3Celebrated 300 hours.Lead over 40 students through a life changing 300 hour international yoga teacher training course in Detroit, MI.
4Bar Mitzvah Party.Shared a powerful and intimate Jewish ritual with family at my sons Benjy’s Bar Mitzvah in the heart of Detroit.
5Mountain bike race, Leadville 100 Stage Race.Spontaneously jumped into a mountain bike race in Leadville, CO with LifeTime Fitness CEO Bahram Akradi, COO Jeff Zwiefel and many of my amazing friends and colleagues.
This exercise of writing out five milestones for 2015 is very import-ant for everyone. It reminds us to celebrate how far we have come instead of how far we have to go!
17
Jordan YoungerIt’s so important to celebrate our
accomplishments, excitements, re-
lationships and all around thrills of
life. If we don’t celebrate ourselves
and our loved ones, who will!? I
am a firm believer that every day
is worth celebrating, and special
occasions are worth going ALL
OUT for!
1My book, Breaking Vegan, publish-
ing on November 15th! It is my first
bool and also a memoir of a very
important and challenging period
of my life. Getting this book out
into the world and into the hands of
people who I hope it will help is by
far the most exciting and celebra-
tory part of my year.
2My kitten! Until I got Hudson this
summer, I had never had a pet in
my entire life. My parents are not
animal people, and I always begged
for a cat or dog growing up. Now I
have the best, cuddliest, sweetest
and most adorable kitten in the
universe. Find him on Instagram--
he’s @huddythekitten! He is my little
baby and he’s taught me so much
about responsibility and uncondi-
tional love already.
3I am training for the LA Marathon
this February which will be my first
ever full marathon. It terrifies me,
and I think doing things that terrify
us every once in aw while is good
for the soul! I am running on the
NutriBullet Team and I have met so
many incredible people so far.
4The growth of TBV Apparel has
been so fun to be a part of. Working
with my talented and super creative
partners Tynan Daniels and Cole
Arutian has been a dream. I can’t
wait to see where we are with the
line at this time next year!
5My website was mentioned on
Jessica Alba’s Snapchat story yes-
terday and it kind of made my life.
She’s incredible.
18
Kathryn Budig
1We actually just received our wedding album (better late than never), and are reminiscing about our growth as a couple in the last year.
2I’m so incredibly excited to share this very personal book with my readers. I’m proud of my first book, but this lifestyle book is the new direction that I’d like to continue to move into.
3I have a big year planned! Tons of travel around my book tour as well as trips to Australia and the UK.
4I’ve been sharing my recipes weekly through my blog, Yahoo Health and my Aim True Kitchen newsletter. Stay hungry—I got ya!
5I’ll be entering my 3rd year of being sponsored by Under Armour. I’m so honored to help promote strength and empowerment through their IWILLWHATIWANT campaign and breast cancer awareness through Power in Pink.
6I had the amazing opportunity to talk about body image, being a ‘real’ woman, and creating positive change at the Mind-BodyGreen Revitalize Summit which can now be viewed on their or my site. I’m hoping it will empower anyone who watches to love exactly where they are right now and shake off the baggage that holds us down.
I’m so incredibly excited to share this very personal book with my readers. I’m proud of my first book, but this lifestyle book is the new direction that I’d like to continue to move into.
19
Kino MacGregorCelebrating milestones
is a great way to take
stock of how far you’ve
come. It’s easy to focus
on what you don’t
have but every now
and then by taking
stock of what you have
accomplished you will
cultivate an attitude
of gratitude for all the
blessings in your life.
It’s been a big year!
1My third book, The
Power of Ashtanga Yoga
II was published.
2Kerri Verna and I
launched the first of many
online yoga videos on
www.yogachallenge.com
to support our monthly IG
challenges.
3Together with
@yogisheart I founded,
funded and awarded
the first ever Journey To
India scholarship.
4I started the Fifth Series
of Ashtanga Yoga with my
teacher R. Sharath Jois
5Last but not least, my
husband and I are taking
a vacation to the Turks
and Caicos.
20
Laura KasperzakIt is so important to recognize and CELEBRATE achievements or milestones in your life. These celebratory moments don’t have to be huge either, they just have to have a significant impact on your life that you will remember forever. Here are my top 5 moments of this past year:
1I was able to leave my desk job to pursue teaching yoga full-time! Talk about a celebratory moment! I will always remember walking… no… SKIPPING out of my office building on my last day. It made me realize how important being happy is and that anyone can pursue a new career at ANY age.
2I hit ONE MILLION followers on Ins-tagram. When I set up my account 3 years ago, it was simply to track my yoga progress and maybe connect with other local yogis. I never knew what impact it would have on my life.
3I stepped out of my comfort zone and overcame a huge fear… public speak-ing. It was one thing that held me back for a long time. Over the past year, I felt that fear subside and switch to excitement to teach! It is no longer fearful nerves before I start a class, it’s excitement and readiness!
4I spent two beautiful weeks in Bali and became a certified ACROVINYA-SA teacher. AcroYoga has become such an integral part of my prac-tice. Being able to connect with my husband and my children in this way has been a joy! Becoming certified to spread this joy is an event I will never forget!
5I became one of the faces for the Ga-iam apparel line at Kohl’s. It is surreal to see Two Fit Moms in ads or on displays in the store! Along with this, I have also had the honor of gracing the cover of a few magazines! These are moments I will treasure and share for the rest of my life.
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM 21
Masumi GoldmanIt’s easy to become consumed with the
negative. After all, life is often difficult
and full of heartache. But if I’ve learned
anything over the past year, as I’ve spent
countless nights in the children’s hospital
at my daughter’s bedside---it’s that life
is beautiful and worth celebrating. It is
far better for the body and soul to focus
on all that is good and right with the
world than to expend energy on all that
is wrong.
Here are 5 of my significant milestones
from the past year:
1In September, I celebrated the 1-year anni-
versary of my daughter’s kidney transplant.
I decorated the house and planned a
kidney birthday party with pizza, cupcakes
and presents. It was only fitting to mark
the end of an incredibly tough year with a
joyous celebration.
2In August, I had the opportunity to teach
yoga classes at the largest international mac-
robiotic conference in the world. It was a
full-circle experience to return to teach at the
healing center that helped me on my own
health journey over the past three years.
3One of my proudest achievements over the
past year was a collaboration to help design
a line of leggings in honor of children’s
health. A percentage of each legging
sale was donated to a children’s research
hospital. As a parent of a child that has
spent countless days in the hospital, this is
a cause that is near and dear to my heart.
4This past year was also significant from a
business perspective. My business partner
and I are now spokespeople for the Gaiam
brand. We are proud to represent their
philosophy of “yoga for everyone”, and we
were excited to help launch the new Gaiam
apparel line in Kohl’s department stores.
5Last but not least, landing on the cover of
Yoga Digest Magazine this past summer
was a huge honor. The issue was all
about yoga and family, which are two
topics that make my heart soar. My hope
is that we have inspired families to live
healthy lives and to embrace yoga.
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Rachel Brathen
1This is really easy! I got married last year! Our wed-ding day was a big celebra-tion and milestone.
2I taught a class in my home-town in Sweden. We had 1,000 people attend which is a big deal because in Sweden, yoga is not main-stream at all! The fact that we had 1,000 people come practice was really amazing!
3My first book Yoga Girl was released and became a New York Times Bestseller!
4I’m working on my second book which will be com-pletely different and is due out next year.
5I gave my first TED Talk. I have a massive fear of public speaking. It doesn’t affect me in yoga class, but the idea of preparing a talk and standing up in front of a crowd is really one of my biggest fears. Facing that feels like a big milestone.
Celebration is really valu-able. Acknowledging mile-stones is helpful in deter-mining where we go in the future as well. We’ve got to stop and acknowledge our successes and accom-plishments because it’s too easy to get stuck on all the things that are not going well. We can obsess about this one thing that isn’t working, when there are so many other things that are working. It’s im-portant energetically, too, to be grateful for what you have and not just focus on what you don’t have.
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Taylor HarknessLift Up the Day! Why Celebration is Key to Happiness
It seems every time you turn around there’s yet
another seemingly made up holiday. Human beings
are really good at celebrating, and we’re actually
wired to crave it. But do we actually need a National
Butterscotch Pudding Day (Sep. 19th) to let our hair
down? I don’t think so. And more and more evidence
suggests that those who celebrate even the smallest
of things and choose to take on an “attitude of grati-
tude” live healthier, happier, more connected lives.
Here are five things I’ve recently celebrated that you
can, too!
1Love of all kinds— this year, I found the love of my life
*cue the blushing* and we spend a lot of time cele-
brating the little things together. But even if you’re not
in a relationship, love surrounds all of us. Celebrate
the love of your family and friends with your family
and friends! Tell people how you feel. And if you need
clarity, spend time journaling to get your feelings into
words, then tell them. This matters. Love matters.
2Where you live— this year, I moved to a new city. I
wasn’t thrilled at first, but by taking the time to research
things to do in the area, I’ve now really come to enjoy
what this city has to offer, from food to art to live music
and events. It took work, but my free time is now more
well-rounded. Plus this can also help you meet new
groups of friends!
3Where you sleep— your home is your castle! We ditched
some old furniture and built new shelves all on our own,
threw around some fun pillows, and got new dishes. We
put the time in to keep our home tidy and organized so
we can relax and be ready for celebration with others at
any time. Respect where you lay your head.
4What you eat— food should nourish your body. But
even if it comes in a wrapper, take a moment to be
grateful for the effort it took to create your food, for the
plants and animals that perhaps went into your food,
and for having the means to feed yourself. I celebrate
a fast food taco in the same way I would celebrate a
homemade Thanksgiving meal. Be thoroughly grateful.
5Your Self— when was the last time you celebrated YOU?
I often make time to do the things I love and to give my-
self a pat on the back for a job well done. Treat yourself
to a massage, an unplugged day of rest, or even just an
ice cream cone on your walk home. Celebrate you!
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Dr. Wayne Dyer the Life ofCelebrating
O n August 29, 2015, Dr. Wayne Dyer passed on to his “next adventure.” At least that’s the way Dyer looked at death, merely a transition
to something new. Dyer was a self help guru who inspired millions with
his motivating and empowering advice. He was a pioneer in bringing the principles of self-discovery and personal growth alive for the masses. He will forever live on in our minds and hearts.
The spiritualist magazine Mind Body Spirit regularly listed Dyer as one of the 10 most spiritually influential people in the world. He ranked eighth last year. We agree and that is why we celebrate the life of Dr. Wayne Dyer!
His legacy lives on through his 8 children and is cel-ebrated by the many lives he influenced during his 75 years. We were fortunate and grateful that his daughter, Serena Dyer Pisoni, shared her eulogy with us to share with you. Look for it on Page 29.
BY JENN BODNAR
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM26
Here is what some had to say about Dyer’s passing
“The world has lost an incredible man.
Wayne Dyer officiated our wedding & was an inspiration to so
many. Sending love.”
— Ellen DeGeneres, @TheEllenShow
“It was always a pleasure to talk to @DrWayneWDyer
about life’s big questions. He always had big answers. RIP Wayne. You brought
the Light.”
— Oprah Winfrey, @Oprah
“Wayne will be greatly missed by those
who were fortunate enough to know him but his teachings will
live on forever.”
— Portia de Rossi, @portiaderossi
Wayne had recently returned from Australia and New Zealand right before he passed away. His daughters Saje and Skye were on the trip with him. Wayne would have Skye sing during his speaking events and he had Saje come on stage to talk about her miraculous healing from flat warts on her face as a child which she has turned into a children’s book title “Good Bye Bumps”.
Saje recently sent this note to her friend: Just wanted to share something. I was sitting in a park while babysitting yesterday and I pulled out my school planner to jot something down in it. After I finished writing what I needed to, I put my pen down and looked up at the kids playing in front of me. Out of no where a big gust of wind came and the pages in my planner started blowing around. As I looked back down I was so surprised because this is the page it stopped at:
I don’t even remember getting this note from my Dad and I have never before put anything like that in my planner. Any sticky note that is in there is just a list of things I need to do.
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Here are 10 of his most inspiring quotes that are sure to give you the motivation you
need to be a better you.
23
45
67
89
10
1“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”
“You cannot be lonely if you like the person you’re alone with.”
“If you believe it will work out, you’ll see opportunities. If you believe
it won’t you will see obstacles.”
“When you have the choice between being right and being kind just choose kind.”
“Anything you really want, you can attain, if you really go after it.”
“You have everything you need for complete peace and total happiness right now.”
“Circumstances do not make a man, they reveal him.”
“You are not stuck where you are unless you decide to be.”
“You cannot always control what goes on outside. But you can always
control what goes on inside.”
“Practice being the kind of person you wish to attract.”
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SERENA DYER EULOGYMy dad didn’t have a filter, so I am going to not filter this either. I want to share with all of you some things about my dad that you probably wouldn’t know unless you were one of his children or closest friends…
Two things stand out to me about dad, one is his sense of humor, and the other is his desire to share, whether that was share knowledge, share money, share stories... He was always teaching and sharing with everyone around him.
One summer when we were on Maui and I was about 8 years old, our family and friends took a catamaran over to the island of Molokai, where we swam, ate lunch, climbed trees, swung on vines, and played in a giant valley of mud that we used to cover ourselves in from head to toe. Some of the little kids were running naked in the mud and my brother Sands asked my dad if he was going to get naked and run in the mud too. My dad replied to us that he couldn’t get naked and run in the mud for three reasons. The first was that if he did, all the women would go crazy over his peeper (our family word for penis) and chase him all over the island. The second was that the kids would mistake his peeper for a vine and try and use it as a swing, and the last was that his peeper would drag on the ground and scrape and he didn’t want to get hurt. We were in hysterics over his responses and to this day we have never forgotten those reasons, even though this happened some 20 odd years ago.
My dad is funny, really, really funny, and every time we were together we were laughing and telling stories. My dad rarely had a simple answer for any question we may have asked. Just a few weeks ago we were taking Sailor’s pacifier out and dangling it in front of her, trying to encourage her to use her hands to reach. My dad was laying there watching and said “this is like the myth of Sisiphus, every time she gets close you take it away.” Having no clue what he was talking about he went on to explain the greek mythology of Sisiphus, and all of
this was before breakfast! He was always telling stories and teaching us, his children.
He was creative in his story telling, he had his own language, he could deliver a punch line like no other. He was obsessed with not wasting things. He never wanted to throw anything out and because of that, his fridge was full of items way passed their expiration date. He would sense Skye or myself sifting through the fridge, looking for things to throw away, and he would fly into the kitchen and exclaim, mustard doesn’t’ expire! I don’t care if it says 2009 on it that mustard is perfectly good you are not throwing that away. He went one entire summer using one paper plate for his toast every morning just to prove that could. One paper plate for breakfast for the entire summer!
He and technology had a terrible relationship. He could never figure out how to use his iPad and would call me and say something like “the Google isn’t let-ting me YouTube the website,” or “I want to send my website to someone in an email, how do I give them the password.” The first time he saw one of us put in a password on a computer he smirked and said, I know your password! And we were like oh yea dad, what is it? He was completely serious when he said “four stars.” I was at the mall with Matt recently and my dad called twice in a row, which meant a technology panic, and I answered while Matt was in the dressing room. For the next 30 minutes I had to explain to him how to copy and paste the link to a website that he wanted to email to someone. Other people in the dressing rooms were cracking up listening to our dialogue..
29
Another summer we put a couple of pictures of our family on the wall in the kitchen and when we came back the following summer, the collage of pictures was now covering the cabinets. That Christmas, when we were all there on Maui, the photos were now spreading out to the walls, but the best part about it was that about a third of the photos were of people we didn’t even know. We would say, dad, who is this kid? And he would say “I don’t know, his mom sent me his picture so I put it on the wall.” His condo on Maui is basically covered in photos of our family and friends and complete strangers. His love for people always so apparent.
Dad had an inherent sense of justice, of doing what was right, even when it may have been easier to ignore something. He is just so good, so full of love, and he did so many generous things in ways that never brought attention to himself, and I would like to share some of those with you.
He saw an HBO show a few weeks ago that highlighted a story of an el-derly African American woman named Harriett Cleveland who was 61 years old, living in Montgomery, AL and was raising her 3 year old disabled grandson . Unable to pay a driving fine as well as her medications and food, she put the bill in a pile of unpaid bills to be gotten to later. Over time, the fine compiled and built, eventually go-ing from $75 to over $3000. She was arrested in her home in front of her grandson and brought to jail, spending 2, two week sentences in a confided cell. My dad, having seen her story, was so moved that he had his assistant, close friend, and coauthor, Dee, look her up, locate her, and he wrote her a letter and sent her $3,000 to cover the fine, and additionally sent her two multiple thousand dollar checks just to make sure she was alright. The woman called him in tears, she couldn’t believe that a complete stranger sent her more money than she had ever had at one time in her life. This woman’s story aired on HBO and only one person, one person in the whole world, reached out to help her, without seeking any attention or praise, and that on person was my dad.
He received hundreds of pieces of mail a week and there were always letters asking him for money or financial assistance. Coincidentally, there was always money being sent to him from his fans as well. People who believed in tithing would
send him odd dollar amounts all the time. He had a system where, when someone wrote asking for money, he put it in a pile, and when he received money from someone, he would take a letter from his pile and send that person the money he just received. He maintained a constant flow of financial support to complete strangers just because he could.
He has paid for the education of over a dozen children unrelated to him, children of friends or even strangers just because he believed in the value of a good education and he was capable of providing one. He set up a million dollar college fund at his alma mater for inner city kids struggling to pay for school and to date over 74 inner city kids have benefited from that scholarship.
Every time we took a walk together on Maui, which often times was everyday I was there, someone would stop him to tell him that his work changed their life and
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM30
every time he would engage with them as if they were the most important person in the world to him at that time. Then, he would ask what hotel they were in and what their room number was and he would send me to deliver a few signed books to their room. This happened constantly. Daily, really.
He had an incredibly powerful platform. He attracted huge audiences all over the world and he knew how much sharing the stage with him could impact someone’s career. Every year, without fail, he would find someone whose cause or story or message he believed in and he would include them in his program for that year. He would endorse their work and if they did work together, he gave them every dollar of the royalties he collected on it, never taking any of it for himself.
As weird as this sounds, I had a longing to be near my dad. I had a longing to talk to him, to hear his voice, as he has always been the person I most wanted to be like. Incredibly kind, generous to a fault, interested in the world and in people in particular, funny. On his birthday this year I sent him a card and in it I wrote that on his 75th turn around the sun, he should be so proud of the fact that his children take all of their free time to be with him, to be around him, and that that is the mark of a great man and an even greater father. He called me after he got my card and told me he loved that, he loved that his kids always wanted to be around him. I am so grateful that he knew how much I loved being with him.
My dad and I took several trips around the world together, just the two of us, and on one of those recent trips I wrote him a letter and told him how much I loved him. He read that letter at every one of his talks afterward and my sister Skye even turned it into a song that she sang to us while we danced together at my wedding. I am so grateful to have that memory. In that letter I told him that I could feel that he believed in me, and what greater gift could a parent give their child but to make them feel how much they believed in them?
When we came up with the idea to write a book together, a book about how I was raised and what it was really like to grow up in the Dyer household, I felt daunted and thrilled. I wasn’t sure I could adequately express what it was like to have him as a father in just 10 chapters. But he was so encouraging, so loving. He worked with me, telling me over and over again, “Serena, you have a gift at telling stories, just tell your stories and it will be perfect.” At the end of writing that book together, we were both so proud of it. I felt his love and pride for me. I am so grateful he is the kind of dad who shared that. I am grateful that he taught me to go within and find God. Grateful that he taught me to be open to other people’s ideas and ways of living. He taught me to leave the judging to someone else, and instead, to just treat people with
compassion, understanding that everyone is just doing the best they can. Most importantly, in this moment, I am most grateful that he taught me that even in death, we are just shedding one coat and putting on another. He told me he would never leave me, even when he left this earthly realm, and I am most grateful that I know this to be true.
Everyone that knows me knows I am a talker. My dad is a talker too. Talking to him is and was my most favorite thing in the world. I think that is what is so hard for me about all of this. Our relationship was built on talking to each other. We spoke on the phone almost every single day. We talked so often and about so many things that for me it is impossible to narrow down who my dad is to me on a few pages
In closing, I want to tell you that Dad and I agreed to name our book “Don’t die with your music still in you” because for me, it was the most important les-son he taught me. Dad came here with music to play and he played it so loudly, it changed the world. One man, with some really big ideas, changed the lives of millions of people for the better. My dad, with his love of teaching, of sharing, of story telling, helped millions of people improve their lives. It is now my promise to you dad that I will not die with my music still in me. I carry who you are within me, and I will do everything I can to continue your message as you had just recently asked me to one day do. For me, this isn’t goodbye. I could never say goodbye to the person who is everywhere and everything for me. To me, this is just learning to see you and hear you in a new and different way, cause as you said, when you die, you will still be here, just in another room… I love you forever and ever dad. Thank you, for everything.
I AM
—Serena Dyer
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@salutethesunn
Brian CrawfordPhotos by
w w w . b r i a n c r a w f o r d p h o t o g r a p h y . c o m
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@ninieyoga
@dylanwerneryoga
Photography@ b r i a n c r a w f o r d p h o t o g r a p h y
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@iamalexdiehl
@jun_help_me
Brian CrawfordPhotos by
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@senoritayogini & @hanadoesyoga
Photography@briancrawfordphotography
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Brian CrawfordPhotos by
@blackcatwhisperer
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Photography
@dimaharani
@stefbert4
@briancrawfordphotography
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How to Have a Scent-sational
Be proactive this holiday season by supporting your moods and creating an atmosphere of choice by using
the benefits of nature’s precious gifts: essential oils. BY CARY CASTER
Holiday Season!
U sing essential oils at every step of revelry during the holiday season can help you get the most out of this valued time.
Scent Your HomeEnhance your home with smells of the great outdoors by diffusing pure essential oils of Pine, Fir and Spruce. This helps create the holiday spirit and a connection with nature that is grounding and supportive.
And if you don’t have time to fill your home with the warming smell of fresh baked goodies, you can still envelope your abode with these homespun scents by diffusing the essential oils of Cinnamon, Clove and Allspice.
Open Your HeartIt’s normal to experience a array of emotions when family and friends get together. While the messages of the season are filled with love and joy, some sit-uations can be taxing and uncomfortable if difficult histories prevail. Set a positive mood by applying uplifting essential oils before you enter gatherings, so you can greet any situation with an open heart. Some beloved essential oils for uplifting the spirit are Bergamot, Sweet Orange, Neroli and Jasmine.
Add 5 to 10 drops into an unscented lotion and apply before you greet the day to help you radiate joy at every encounter.
Boost Your EnergyIf your holiday social calendar is packed with party after party, you’re going to need reinforcements to help you manage all the fun on the run! Too many energy drinks can get you jittery, while caffeine will keep you up all night. Instead, inhale invigorating essential oils such as Rosemary and Peppermint to give your body and mind that extra lift needed to make it through all the merriment without the added side effects.
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Keep Yourself HealthyVisiting family and friends for the holidays usually requires travel to places with changes in climate. It also means being exposed to public transportation, which expands your chances of exposure to foreign germs. Add the stress of travel to the mix, and you have a triple threat for being run down and likely to come down with some bug.
You can boost your immune system before hitting the road by using essential oils that are high in antimicrobial properties, such as Tea Tree, Spike Lavender, Eucalyptus and Ho Wood. These es-sential oils all have properties that fight bacterial growth and can help you keep invasive germs in check. Saturate a cotton ball with any one or a combination of the above essential oils, keep in a plastic baggie and breathe in deeply every few hours before and during travel to keep infections at bay.
Detoxify Your BodyLet’s face it, holiday time by its very nature is cause for indulging. Using essential oils that support the body’s detoxification processes will help you recuperate before you start all over again. Supporting the liver, which is constantly cleansing impurities from the blood and managing excesses, is of utmost importance when you’re in party mode.
Lemon and Carrot Seed essential oils are wonderful for nourishing the liver while Cardamom essential oil offers a natural source of glutathione, which the
body naturally produces to rid unwanted chemicals and impurities. Juniper helps support the kidney and bladder, which both work overtime when ridding the body of imbibing excesses. I like keeping a blend of 6 drops of Lemon, 6 drops of Cardamom and 3 drops of Carrot Seed essential oil mixed in one ounce of lotion to apply to my abdomen prior to bed when the body is already working to rectify the day’s stresses and strains. Adding 10 drops of Juniper to one ounce of any carrier oil is great to rub onto the lower back where it gets quickly absorbed and helps support the kidney and bladder.
Soothe Your StomachThere are lots of sweet and savory temptations during the holiday season, so sometimes you need a little help to digest all of those delicious treats. There are many digestive essential oils that can come to the rescue. Ginger and Cardamom are warm, spicy oils that aid digestion, while Peppermint and Sweet Orange have a cooling effect to help with assimilating and settling an overworked stomach. Add any combination of these to a cotton ball and keep in a plastic baggie for a quick inhalation after meals or when your stomach feels unsettled..
As you can see, it is easy to be mindful and set your intentions when you have extra support through the holidays. The usage of essential oils can enhance all your holiday experiences for a scent-sational festive season!
Cary Caster, B.S., LMT, CCA is a Botanist, Licensed Massage Therapist and Certified Clinical Aromatherapist who is on a mission to help people be their best self every day. She believes that people can take their health into their own hands.
Cary is not only the founder and expert behind 21 Drops, an essential oil therapy company, but she is also a devoted healer who sits on the board of the Alliance of International Aromatherapists and has been featured as an essential oil expert in the Huffington Post, Vanity Fair and Martha Stewart Living, among others. Cary of-fers continuing education classes in Aromatherapy at the University of Miami’s iCAMP program, and throughout the country.
To learn more about Cary and how to work with her, please visit www.21drops.com
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4Nourishing
for
BY JEN CARTER AVGERINOSCOURTESY OF WWW.CHOPRACENTER.COM
A s the fourth season, winter is a time for stabilizing. The number four corre-
sponds to the grounding nature of all things as well as nature itself—the four seasons, the four elements, and the four directions. This founda-tional number also corresponds with the heart chakra—the fourth energy center. And the heart chakra, much like winter, is the bridge between the spiritual and the physical.
The following four yoga postures are gentle and nourishing for the cold winter months ahead and will help to support your immune system, gently squeezing toxins from internal organs and lowering stress hormones in the body. With these supportive poses in your pocket, old man winter can bring it on.
SUPPORTED
SETU BANDHA
SARVANGASANA Bridge Pose
RECOMMENDED PROPS:
bolster, blanket, yoga block
Yoga PosesWinter
Winter—the season of introspection, hibernation, and surrender—is the perfect time to go deeper into the practice of yoga or to cultivate a home practice.
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HOW?Lying supine, with knees bent,
place your feet on the mat. Press into
the feet, lifting the hips and the thighs;
place a yoga block at the desired height
under your sacrum. The head, shoulders,
and arms remain on the mat. You can
clasp your hands under your body
around the block if you want a nice
shoulder opener. Hold for 5 to 10
breath cycles or longer.
HOW?Stand with feet hips-width apart. On an exhale, fold at the waist, bending knees slightly if needed. Clasp opposite elbows and straighten the legs, if possible. Hold for 5 to 10 breath cycles.
WHY?This pose stretches the neck, the chest, and the spine. It helps to stimulate abdominal organs, improv-ing digestion. It also stimulates the thyroid and lungs and is rejuvenating to tired legs. This posture is calming to the mind and helps to relieve mild depression as well as insomnia.
WHY?This posture lengthens the
spine, increases flexibility, and
reduces pain in the lower back.
It also helps to open the shoulder
joints, stimulates the pituitary and
pineal glands, and exercises
the colon, pancreas, and
kidneys.
UTTANASANA Standing Forward Bend
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM 41
WHY?This is the vacation pose of
yoga, providing a deep sense
of rest. This pose calms the
nervous system, provides blood
flow to the lower abdomen,
stretches the inner thighs,
and helps to open
the hips.
HOW?Use a yoga bolster or a firm couch cushion. If your hips are tight, fold two blankets to place under each knee. Sit with the support behind you—in line with your lower back. Lie back over the bolster or pillow and bring the soles of your feet together. Extend arms out from the shoulders. Hold for 10 to 20 breath cycles or longer, up to 10 minutes. Enjoy!
EDUCATE 4 Nourishing Yoga Poses for Winter
SUPTA BADDHA
KONASANA Reclining Bound Angle Pose
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Jen Carter Avgerinos is a creative and passionate writer, marketer, and yoga teacher certified in the Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga, prenatal/postnatal yoga, and kids yoga. Her favorite thing about teaching is helping people connect with the present moment and with their body, mind, and spirit in order to live their most fulfilled lives. She is the author of the popular book The Yoga of Cleaning: An Essential Guide, and she blogs about yoga at www.adore-yoga.com
MATSYASANA VARIATION Fish Pose WHY?
This pose stretches the neck,
the chest, and the spine but the
focus is more on opening the chest
and the heart center. Matsyasana
also stretches the thoracic and
cervical spine and helps to cor-
rect rounded shoulders—a
serious epidemic in the
computer age.
HOW?Place a yoga block at its desired height and lie back over it. You can also place a pillow or another block under your head if the stretch is too intense. Extend your legs and open your arms out from the shoulder. Hold the pose for 10 to 20 breath cycles or longer, up to five minutes.
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM 43
An Attitude of Gratitude
AbundanceCreates
ABUNDANCE begins with a sense of self worth, self-love, and an attitude of gratitude. But what does the term abundance really mean? In our society, it is often measured by quantity of material goods and wealth. This surely is one aspect, but
there is also a simple abundance that we feel when we have “soul contentment.” I’m going to offer some strategies to
invite greater abundance into your life.
BY CATHY WOODS
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ABUNDANCE begins with a sense of self worth, self-love, and an attitude of grati-tude. But what does the term abundance really mean? In our society, it is often measured by quantity of material goods and wealth. This surely is one aspect, but there is also a simple abundance that we feel when we have “soul contentment.” I’m going to offer some strategies to invite greater abundance into your life.
Contemplate and create a list of ways you are already abundant. Perhaps you have friendships, a job, a place to live, food to eat each day, and so on.
Facilitate and manifest your heart’s desires. • Visualize them clearly• Write them down, stating them in positive and
specific terms• Affirm your intentions by reading them frequently,
either silently or aloud• Lightly introduce them into your meditations, perhaps
reading them before meditating• Practice gratitude for what is good in your life, rather
than focusing on what is wrong (more about this later…)• Contemplate what holds you back from fulfilling your
heart’s desires, and then, find creative solutions to alter what stands in your way
• Make an effort toward your desires, then let go and turn the results over to Higher Power with non-attach-ment to the outcome
Practice GRATITUDE; it actually creates more abundance and happiness. There’s a saying, “an attitude of gratitude is a prayer in action.” Feeling grateful for what we already have is essential in self-care and a spiritual life. Why are we asking for more if we are not already grateful for what we have?
Seek and notice things each day that you have to be grateful for. Keeping a gratitude journal is a powerful technique. Every morning or night, write down at least five things you are thankful for. This “homework” helps you notice how much there already is to appreciate in your life, from the blankets that keep you warm at night to the warm smile of a friend or family member.
If you’re not the journaling type, making a gratitude jar can be a fun and creative practice. Craft or find a cheerful-looking jar and leave it in a place you will see it often (like on your kitchen counter or desk). Keep a small notepad next to it and each day spend a couple of minutes writing down anything that invokes gratitude. On days you are feeling down, pull out some of your entries and remember all that you have to give thanks for.
Now you have put your intentions “out there” by iden-tifying the areas where you want more abundance, and you are practicing gratitude on a regular basis. Once these seeds are planted in the fertile ground of pure potentiality, step back with non-attachment and trust they will bloom when and if the season is right. Then, trust in Spirit’s timetable, which may be very different than the timetable you have in mind.
May you enjoy the beautiful path of Gratitude and Abundance and love the life you live.
Cathy Woods, ERYT 500, Yogini, is a long-time yoga teacher & retreat leader (of 25 years) offering yoga retreats, life-skills enrichment programs and Body, Mind, Equine, nationally. Cathy teaches yoga as awareness” practice to be used on and off the mat. An authentic, adaptable, clear teacher, assisting students to embark on their own inner journey. Though she maintains connected to Kripalu lineage, she teaches the “yoga of her heart.”
Create a list of ways you’d like to become more abundant. Choices about what we seek are best
made from a calm and clear place, rather than a scat-tered, fearful, grasping or doubtful place. We have the capacity to attain what we want by co-creating with the Universe and Higher Power (however you like to define those terms), so it is very important to be careful in our choices. A healthy lifestyle,
meditation, and yoga increase clarity of body, mind, and spirit. These practices put us in touch with our
intuition about what’s wholesome and in our best in-terest. So before you begin, take some time to quiet
your mind and body.Examine the reasons and areas where you want
to become more abundant. What is the energy or intention behind them? Are they coming from a place of clarity? Are your reasons ego-based or
fear-based? Will they serve your highest good? Will they serve the good of others? Will they create more
soul contentment in your life?
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Beating the Holiday Blues
YogawithI f you’re suffering from depression, the demands
of the holiday season can be overwhelming – from fighting the crowds at the shopping malls to attend-
ing obligatory work parties and big family gatherings. Whether you’ve lost a loved one, a job or are strug-
gling with a serious health condition, the holidays can stir up feelings of deep sadness that make it tough to get out of bed in the morning.
“If we’re grieving or we’re just out and out depressed, and we don’t acknowledge it, it’s only going to get worse,” says Amy Weintraub, founder of LifeForce Yoga Healing Institute and author of Yoga for Depression. “Yoga helps you let go and clear the space through the focused breath-ing and through the movements, so that your muscles move and you’re getting oxygenated blood throughout the body. It’s about releasing what you no longer need.”
What makes yoga so powerful is the attention to the breath and sensations in the body. It helps release bottled up emotions and opens up constrictions in your muscles, giving you a feeling of lightness and renewed energy. “You can allow the tears to flow, roll up your mat and get on with your day,” explains Weintraub.
A large number of scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of yoga in managing moods, especially depression and anxiety. According to Weintraub, prac-ticing yoga can help elevate “feel-good” hormones including dopamine, oxytocin, prolactin and GABA levels, which help cultivate a feeling of well-being and relaxation. When practiced regularly, yoga can also create healthy restructuring of the brain and increased lung capacity.
“People with depressed mood tend to have slumped shoulders and may be upper chest breath-ers,” says Weintraub. “Yoga helps to deepen the breath, so that you’re breathing more fully into your lungs diaphragmatically. It also helps
release chronic tension in the muscles.” Although yoga can help fight depression, don’t throw
away your antidepressants. Yoga is considered a com-plement to medical treatment, not a replacement. If you practice regularly, you may be able to slowly decrease your level of medication under the close supervision of your health care provider.
To reap the most benefits from yoga, Weintraub recommends practicing daily, but that doesn’t mean you have to roll out your mat for an hour every day. Even a few minutes of focused yogic breathing or a short moving sequence can invigorate your body and boost your mood.
Backbends are energizing so try to incorporate them into your longer practices. Be sure to warm up your body first, stretching the spine in all directions. Start with gentle backbends such as sphinx, cobra or bridge pose before moving into more advanced heart-opening poses like camel and upward-facing bow.
If you’re feeling anxious and depressed, try to include forward bends with an extended exhala-
tion to help calm the nervous system. Work with a qualified yoga teacher and start slowly. With time, you will feel stronger and more balanced in your body, mind and emotions.
“People who are depressed don’t really trust that they have
the tools within them to get better, but they do,” says Weintraub.
“It’s about clearing the space, and yoga does that better than
anything else I know.”For more ways to
fight depression, visit Weintraub’s website at yogafordepression.com
BY ANGELA AMBROSE
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Four Surefire Ways to Boost Your EnergyWeintraub offers a few quick tips for boosting your energy level when the holiday doldrums are bringing you down. Rest for a minute after each set of exercises and notice the sensations throughout your body.
Focused Breathing in BedIf you’re having a hard time dragging yourself out of bed in the morning, practice a couple breathing exercises when you first wake up.
Stair-step Up the Mountain: Take little steps of breath through the nose until the lungs feel full as though you’re climbing a mountain. When you get to the top, bring to mind something beautiful. Then slide down the mountain as you exhale the breath smoothly through the nose. Repeat two times.
Elevator Ride Up the Mountain: This exercise reverses the above breathing technique and is more energizing. Take an elevator ride to the top of the mountain, breathing slowly in through the
nose and imag-ine something beautiful at the top of the mountain. Exhale through the nose taking little steps of breath as you go down the mountain. This creates a gentle pumping action in the belly that cultivates higher energy. Repeat two times.
Pulling PranaThis short sequence links breath with movement and is a simple but powerful way to generate more prana, also known as energy or life force. Stand with your feet about hip-distance apart. Inhale deeply through your nose as you reach your arms overhead with your palms facing toward your body and fingers spread wide. On the exhale, make two fists and forcefully pull the hands back to your waist as you bend your knees. Repeat 10 times.
Visual imagerySit up tall in a chair with your feet flat on the floor. Close your eyes and imagine a time when you felt completely at ease and strong with a clear mind. Inhale your arms out in front of your heart and see that image in your heart’s mind. On the exhale, draw your hands to your heart and say out loud “So Ham,” which means “I am that.” Repeat three times.
Contact her at Angela Ambrose.com or on Twitter @AAHealthFitness.
Angela Ambrose is a Phoenix-based writer with 28 years in magazine, corporate and video script-writing. As an ACE-certified group fitness instructor and certified yoga teacher, she combines her writing expertise with her passion for healthy living. Angela’s yoga classes are infused with heart-centered themes that take her students beyond the physical poses to help them connect with their true nature of peace and love.
Power HaraStand with your feet wider than hip distance and place your hands on your shoulders with elbows pointed out. Fill your lungs half way as you twist to the left. Inhale deeper as you twist to the right. Extend your arms out to the sides and forcefully twist to the left as you exhale out the mouth with a “ha” sound. Forcefully twist to the right, once again exhaling out the mouth with a “ha” sound. Repeat 10 times.
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O rganic Infusions Founder and CEO - Rose Heart is a Certified Master Aromatherapist and Herb-alist - her life’s purpose was and continues to
be, to enhance one’s emotional and physical well-being through our connection to the vibration of authentic pure essential oils. With over 15 years of experience in aromatherapy - Rose educates and creates signature blends for companies all over the world. As a supplier to thousands of yoga studios and practitioners throughout the country, Organic Infusions is committed to bringing 100% pure, natural products to the community.
We had the opportunity to ask Heart to explain why all oils are not created equal, the true power of essential oils and what oils should be in every medicine cabinet!
Yoga Digest What’s the difference between your prod-ucts and what you can buy at the grocery market?Rose Heart Typically what is found in the grocery store are either synthetic or commercial grade (plants grown with herbicides and pesticides) essential oils. Organic Infusions offers certified organic and wildcrafted ther-apeutic grade essential oils that are derived from plants that are grown without herbicides or pesticides.
Organic Infusions, Inc is a farm direct, wholesale essential oil supplier committed to purity. During in-halation of an authentic certified organic or wildcrafted
therapeutic grade essential oil, you are connecting to the very life force of the plant. The energetic vibration of the plant unites with the body harmonics within each of us. Organic Infusions understands that when aromatherapy essential oils are altered by artificial means, the precious essence of those oils is forever changed.
Organic Infusions does not carry essential oils that have been diluted, altered, or synthetically modified. Over the past 15 years, I have embarked on a journey of hand selecting many of these farms and distilleries according to our stringent guidelines.
YD Why organic vs. not organic?RH Non Organic Oils are often used commercially (used by chemical companies/cleaning companies etc) and do not adhere to the stringent quality standards that Certified Organic oils must adhere to. Organic Infusions offers the highest quality Certified Organic oils that must meet strict guidelines that are outlined by the USDA – NOP (National Organic Program).
Certified Organic
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Certified Organic
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YD How are oils made? RH Organic Infusions single note Organic Oils are either Cold Pressed or Steam Distilled from the plant. The essential oil blends are infused by me.
YD Do you believe there is an oil for every ailment? RH Yes. We believe that every organic essential oil exists for a unique purpose - to bring the body, mind and spirit into harmony. Because we resonate with and connect to nature on a physical as well as metaphysical plane, our bodies welcome and honor the gift that each oil offers to us through that connection. Individuals and practi-tioners alike have been using our oils therapeutically to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
YD How long have people been using oils as well-ness treatment?RH Essential oils have been used to maintain wellness throughout history for thousands of years.
YD What made you decide to get into oils? RH After suffering many years from allergies and mi-graines from synthetic perfumes, a friend introduced me to essential oils. Not only did my allergies and migraines disappear, but my other body imbalances were restored when I connected to the life force of the true essence of the plant – therapeutic grade organic es-sential oils. I had just started attending massage school at the time and took a basic class on aromatherapy for massage. I would “play” with the essential oils and soon discovered I had a unique gift for infusing the oils together in a way that was noticed by my fellow students. Every day I would go to class and I would have requests to make them blends for massage oil. My teacher at the time said “you seem to have a gift here... Maybe you should start a little side business.” Soon, the word started to spread from fellow students to upper level staff, to friends of friends and I began to grow exponentially. Soon, my garage became too small as demand for my infused blends kept growing. Around this time, I began to attend an Aromatherapy and Herbal Studies course, where I graduated with my Aromatherapist / Herbalist Certificate. Shortly thereafter, I was hired as a chief formulator for various companies around the globe, whereby, I created unique essential oil synergies.
Then, in 2008, Organic Infusions was born!
YD: You got into oils before they become main-stream, describe your journey? RH: Before I embarked on my journey of starting Organic Infusions, I became a well-respected author-ity in the field of aromatherapy. For many years, I educated and created signature blends for thousands of massage therapists, massage schools, healing cen-
ters, medical spas, yoga studios, spa resorts, dental offices and luxury hotels. As the founder of Organic Infusions, I continue to educate and create signature blends for companies all over the world. My life purpose was and continues to be, to enhance one’s emotional and physical well-being through our con-nection to the vibration of authentic pure essential oils. My intention is to awaken in us the truth that we are One with the majestic elements through the essence of these organic sacred plants.
I have more than 15 years of experience in aromather-apy, herbal therapy, natural perfumery, custom blending, product development, massage therapy and crystal heal-ing. I’m also a member of ABMP & NAHA.
As the years unfolded, I have discovered ancient heal-ing techniques that unite pure therapeutic essential oils, prayer, and meditation to release emotional blockage, balance energy, and rejuvenate the body; thereby remov-ing obstacles to attuning to our Life’s Purpose.
Through my Vision of Purity, I have inspired her dedicated staff and thousands of devoted customers to embrace sustainable, organic farming practices that honor farms and their communities.
Organic PeppermintThis is the oil I use when-ever my head or body is achy, or my mind needs to wake up, or my nerves are shaky, or my tummy is rumbling in protest.
Organic LavenderThis is my go to oil for just about everything – calming my mind, while soothing my soul. I love to put a few drops on a tissue and stuff it in my pillow at night for a good night filled with sweet dreams.
Organic FrankincenseThis is my all-time favorite oil. The first time I partook of frankincense, I wept from deep with-in as I could feel old emotional wounds being cleared. I love to anoint my third eye with this oil just before meditation for deep relaxation and connection to the Light of my Soul.
Rose Heart’s
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Inner Peacein Paradise
Yoga Retreat? Yeah Mon!BY JENN BODNAR
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There are many types of yoga. Some yoga is very traditional, while other styles are more
contemporary. Certain yoga classes can feel more restorative, while others are quite vigorous. The same is true for yoga retreats. There is no ‘one size fits all’. Yoga retreats, like yoga practitioners
and styles, come in all shapes and sizes.
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U ltimately, your yoga retreat should leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. If you are looking for a combination of humble
elegance, timeless charm and natural tranquility, Ja-maica Inn may be the setting for you. If deep release through intense yet fluid postures is what your body is craving, then the ‘Inner Peace Yoga Retreat’ may be just what the doctor ordered. And if you have a serious appreciation for reggae legend Bob Marley and celebrated Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt, this is definitely your spot!
Jamaica is beautiful and sacred, with a strong sense of culture and heritage. The Inner Peace In Paradise Yoga Retreat at Jamaica Inn manages to pull it all to-gether to create a one-of-a- kind, exquisite experience.
THE RESORTPulling up to Jamaica Inn feels more like arriving at someone’s stately, historical oceanside home than a 5-star resort. Maybe it’s the refined yet laid back staff. Or perhaps it’s the brilliant all white on mahogany furniture against the turquoise Caribbean backdrop that makes Jamaica Inn a balance of classic comfort like no other. It might be the fact that the resort has been family owned for nearly four generations that gives it the intimate feeling. The family can often be found blending in with the guests along with their token black Labrador, currently ‘Shadow IV.”
Jamaica Inn is prestigious, not pretentious. Passion, pride and preservation can be felt throughout the entire island, and Jamaica Inn brings it all home.
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Whether you choose to play a game of crick-et, relax in one of the hammocks or take it to the ocean for stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) or snorkeling, there is something for everyone. Leave your cell phone at home, or at least in your room, because Jamaica Inn is a technology- free environment. Also, there are no TVs, radios or clocks in the rooms to distract you from the tranquility and peace of this boutique hotel. The award-winning spa boasts three ocean-view treatment rooms with local aromatherapy products that will leave you feeling renewed and refreshed.
THE YOGAThere were two yoga classes a day: 7:30 am and 5 pm. Classes were led by E-RYT500, Sarah Yukie
Gingrich. As an assistant to Baron Bap-tiste and Shiva Rea, Gingrich’s infusion of power and clarity with creative inspiration and fluidity was felt in every moment of the practice. Dynamic contrast was a recurring theme within the resort, and Gingrich’s unique combination of structure and grace carried out the balance of opposites in class as well. Whether this was intentional or not, it was noted and only added to the heightened sen-sation of the entire experience.
There were all levels of practitioners within the group of 10. Gingrich’s intuitive guidance offered practices that were both therapeutic and empowering. Sequencing was unique and specific to common issues in the hips and shoul-ders. The different variations of pigeon and fire log mixed with lizard lunges and gate poses kept the body guessing! Confident hands-on adjustments from Gingrich and her assistant, Christina, created a sense of deep healing, con-nection and restoration.
Classes were held on a private veranda that overlooks the crystal waters of Caribbean. Gin-grich gave gentle reminders to take in the beauty of the island: the breeze, the sun and the waves. “Remember, this beauty around you can always be found within, it’s part of you, even at home” said Gingrich.
re·treat | /rəˈtrēt/ | noun• an act of moving back or withdrawing
IS A YOGA RETREAT* FOR YOU? For some, the idea of driving around the corner to the local yoga studio for a one hour class can be daunting enough. Making the commitment to travel and attend multiple yoga classes for days in a foreign place may seem down right frightening. For many, however, the idea is exhilarating. Experienced and new practitioner’s can all benefit from joining the yoga retreat movement. If the following list describe you, a yoga retreat may be a great option for you:
You want to deepen your practice. Intention goes along way. Simply eliminating the daily grind and immersing yourself in a space entirely dedicated to yoga will open you up to many aspects within the practice, not just the physical. Reflection, mindfulness, self care and new perspective are all parts of getting away from it all.
You want to unplug from technology. Many retreats and facilities are technology free. Depending on your location, you many not even have service. This can be a little scary but also very empowering and clearing.
You want to indulge in a good way. Self care can be challenging at home. Many retreats will offer spa treatments, excursions and activities as well as time for medi-tation and rest. Meals will be more mindful and healthy. Spoiling yourself with some self love and care can be invaluable.
You want to try something you never tried before. With many side activities included in yoga retreats like SUP Yoga, Acrobatic and partner yoga it’s likely you will experience yoga like never before. Most places will offer activities and excursions like swimming with dolphins, zip lining or cooking classes.
You want to be inspired. Learning about a new culture can open up creativity. Routine can literally rob the mind of creativity. We spend most of our days completing tasks for someone else. We wind up one step behind and never reaching our full potential. Getting away from it all, unplugging and clearing your mind opens you up to creativ-ity that lies deep inside you if you quiet the chatter around you enough to hear it!
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THE FOODEating, like everything in Jamaica, is much celebrated. Meals at the resort were decadent, formal, and full of vibrant, local ingredients that tantalized the palette. A trip to the nearby farmers’ market is included in the retreat. Guests sample and learn about the many different native produce like June plums, jack fruit, naseberry and sour sop.
Upon our return, Chef Maurice Henry prepared a traditional fresh caught snapper dish called Escovitch. As we watched, he sautéed peppers and onions in oil seasoned with fresh thyme, salt, pepper, vinegar and sugar. His secret: a dab of cold butter to tie all the rich flavors together.
A variety of traditional Jamaican dishes were served throughout the stay, like ackee and salt fish, bammy, pepper pot stew, jerk seasoned meats, fried plantains and curried vegetables. Vegetarian and gluten-free diets can be accommodated and are respected by the staff.
Breadfruit A prickly football-size pod that is full of nutrients and energy. Known for being somewhat bland and resembling the taste of unseasoned potatoes, it can balance the otherwise spicy and flavorful Jamaican dishes.
Jackfruit Sweet tasting fruit recognized for its unique shape, size, and delicious flavor of its bulbs. (See article: Health Benefits of Jackfruit on page ???)
Jerk seasoning Style of cooking native to Jamaica in which meat is dry-rubbed or wet marinated with a very hot spice mixture called Jamaican jerk spice. Jerk seasoning is traditionally applied to pork and chicken.
BEGINNERS GUIDE TO EATING IN JAMAICA
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Ackee A fruit rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin A, zinc, and protein. It contains four pods inside, is considered toxic in the United States and is used in a traditional Jamaican dish with salt fish.
June plum Egg sized fruit that grows in clusters of up to a dozen or more. They drop from the tree while green, once ripe they turn yellow and have flavors similar to pineapple, mango and apple.
Escovitch Fish (usually) that is seasoned, fried and marinated with a peppery vinegar-based dressing made colorful with julienned bell peppers, carrots and onions.
Callaloo Known as a Jamaican green superfood vegetable that tastes like a cross between broccoli and spinach.
Meat Pattie A pastry that contains various fillings and spices baked inside a flaky shell, often tinted golden yellow with an egg yolk mixture or turmeric. It is traditionally filled with seasoned ground beef, but fillings can include chicken, pork, lamb, vegetables, shrimp, lobster, fish, soy, ackee, mixed vegetables or cheese.
Bammy A traditional Jamaican cassava flatbread made from bitter cassava (also called yuca in American cultures.) They are mostly commonly about 6” in diameter and served baked or fried. As a treat they can be soaked in coconut oil and fried with cinnamon and sugar.
Naseberry Exceptionally sweet, malty flavor fruit that grows on large trees. Similar in size and look of a fuzzy, brown-skinned kiwifruit. It’s flavor resembles caramel or a pear candied with brown sugar.
PearKnown as avocado in American cultures.
Pepper pot stew A classic Caribbean soup. Ingredients vary, but com-monly you will find callaloo, yams, coconut milk, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves, thyme and various meats when not vegetarian.
Plantain Hard, starchy bananas used for cooking, as contrast-ed with the soft, sweet dessert varieties. Jamaican plantains are a staple food and found in most tradi-tional breakfasts served fried.
Sour sop Widely promoted (sometimes as “graviola”) as an alternative cancer treatment. There is, however, no medical evidence that it is effective. The flavor has been described as a combination of strawberry and pineapple, with sour citrus hints contrasting a creamy flavor like coconut or banana.
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LOCATION It’s good to start with an idea of where you would like to spend your days. If you love warm weather and water activities, a lake, beach or island location could be a place to start researching. If you prefer cooler temperatures and the moun-tains, there will be a whole different set of retreats to choose from. You can stay local or travel to the other side of the world. Decide what’s best for you.
BUDGET While a two week trip to a private island can be enticing, it’s important to be realistic. Remember there are many to choose from. There are options from fine dining to kitchenettes for preparing your own meals. Do your research and find something that will be mean-ingful and reasonable to your specific needs and desires.
THEME Some yoga retreats will have a lot of yoga, some will not. Some will be more of a spiritual journey while some are solely focused on having a
good time. There is nothing wrong or right about either, again it’s a personal preference.
TIMING While there is rarely such thing as perfect timing, it’s important that you are in a position to take time away from work, responsibilities and obligations. Planning a yoga retreat the same weekend as your sister’s wedding could cause more stress than it’s worth. Check your calendar, look at your schedule and pick a time frame that makes sense.
TEACHER Many people will join one of their regular teachers on a retreat. If you are looking for a new and different experience be sure to check credentials, read their bios and research the studios they work at. Most teachers are on social media and have websites. You can get a baseline vibe there. Talk to them beforehand! They would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have to make your experience exquisite!
How to Choose Your Yoga RetreatYoga retreats have become as popular and diverse as any other element within the yoga world. There are as many yoga retreats to choose from as there is yoga attire, studios and styles of practice. With so many choices you may be wondering whether a yoga retreat is right for you. If you decide that a yoga retreat is part of your journey the selection process can be overwhelming. Here are some very basic guidelines in no particular order:
THE ACTIVITIESIn addition to a decent supply of stand-up paddle (SUP) boards, including Boga Yoga boards that are perfect for taking your practice to the ocean, there is amazing reef snorkeling literally right on the shoreline of the property! Kayaks, a fishing boat, an award-winning spa, garden tours and cricket are available for guests to use at anytime. You can also take it down a notch and chill in a hammock on the beach, at one of the two bars, or in the study where photographs of Marilyn Monroe from her honeymoon at Jamaica Inn adorn the walls.
There are amazing side trips and excursions as well. Konoko Falls is just down the road and boasts a fact-filled, guided trip through the falls, zoo, museum and botanical gardens. There is also a restaurant at the top to make it a day! Other excursions include the Dunn’s River Falls, zip lines, swimming with the dolphins, golf and other usual tourist fare.
We were lucky enough to assist in a live sea turtle hatching! While these can rarely be planned, summer and fall is considered the nesting season for sea turtles in the Caribbean. Jamaica Inn supports the preservation of the sea turtle population in Jamaica. When there is a turtle hatching nearby, General Manager, Kyle Mais is notified and can let the guests know it’s an option.
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CONCLUSIONWherever you go, go with an open mind. You don’t have to be an ‘advanced’ yogi to attend a yoga retreat. Whether you travel near or far, take notes, journal and stay connected to your new friends. Write down even the smallest of details, as these will be big when you look back. More importantly, plan another one as soon as possible!
The Inner Peace in Paradise retreat is held annually in September. The four-night package includes round-trip airport transfers, an ocean-view room, three meals daily, two daily yoga classes, two excursions, compli-mentary water sports, and a massage. Prices start at $1,445 per person. Find more info and 2016 dates at www.jamaicainn.com.
Turtle Season If you have booked a vacation to the hotel this sum-mer, chances are high that you will either spot a moth-er sea turtle crawling ashore at night to lay her eggs in the sand, or possibly see the baby turtles hatching and make their way to sea.
Mel, our turtle expert from the Oracabessa Turtle Project, has already come in a few times to mark the nests and track the expected hatchling dates.
A turtle’s journeyFrom the time the Leatherback sea turtle slowly makes her way ashore and finds the perfect spot on the beach to lay her eggs, you should realize the thou-sands of miles she has traveled. Turtles will always re-turn to the same beach each year to nest, but usually it is also the same beach on which she hatched!
False crawlsSea turtles will most often only nest at night, but occasionally you may see some nest during daylight. Sometimes the turtle will crawl out of the ocean, but for unknown reasons decide not to nest. This is called a “false crawl” and it can happen naturally or be caused by artificial lighting or the presence of people on the beach. Most turtles will nest at least twice during nesting season, although some species may nest only once and others more than ten times. Sea turtles are generally slow and awkward on land, and nesting is exhausting work.
Digging the nestOnce the female turtle has found the spot where she will lay her eggs, she begins to construct a “body pit” by digging with her flippers and rotating her body. After the body pit is complete, she digs an egg cavity using her cupped rear flippers as shovels. The egg cavity is shaped roughly like a tear drop.
As the process of nesting and laying her eggs is so sensitive for the sea turtle, Mel cautions guests to please be careful and not use lights or flashes on cameras or cell phones as it may disturb the turtle.
Our Security guards and Beach patrol are trained to know how to react around the turtle and to wait pa-tiently until she leaves so that the area can be marked properly. They will then call Mel Tennant to mark the area and track the dates.
HatchlingsApproximately 60 days from the nesting, the turtle hatch-lings are expected to emerge. Because we have such a certain idea of when this will happen, we will let our in-house guests know ahead of time, so they can take part in the experience of releasing the baby turtles to the sea.
You will get to play a part in helping us prepare the beach by raking the area from the nest to the sea to flatten out the “bumps” in the sand. Mel will inspect all of the baby turtles and those that are deemed “healthy” are placed on the sand where they then waddle their way to the ocean. Some of the hatchlings may not be ready and are placed back into the nest for another 24-48 hours.
Many guests are now booking over certain times in the summer so that they can be here to witness this spectacular experience.
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Lake ChelanYOGA GETAWAY
in Beautiful
WashingtonLocated in the heart of Washington’s Cascade Moun-tains, Lake Chelan is a spectacular Pacific Northwest waterfront destination three hours east of Seattle. The region is primarily known as a summer hotspot with its gleaming waters and breathtaking mountains. With hills sprinkled of orchards and vineyards, Lake Chelan is home to a thriving winemaking community with nearly 25 wineries. Come winter, Lake Chelan is transformed into a picturesque, white-clad wonderland.
Lake Chelan is characterized by its crystal clear, blue water; sunny, semi-desert valley climate; and sprinkled horizon of orchards and vineyards.
Described as one of the most beautiful lake settings in the world, generations of families have been mak-ing the journey to Lake Chelan to enjoy year-around
recreational opportunities in a world-class setting. Visitors experience a combination of breathtaking scenery along with a long list of activities including boating, water sports, golf, hiking, fishing, snowmo-biling and cross country skiing. A thriving community of boutique wineries operate as members of the Lake Chelan Wine Valley that are attracting attention from winemakers, grape growers and wine enthusiasts. Downtown Chelan is home to a classic American Main Street with galleries, retail shops, a variety of dining options and the crown jewel, Ruby Theatre offering visitors a look back into the history of small town America. The Lake Chelan Valley also encompasses the quaint Village on the Bay in Manson and a variety of premier dining options.
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Snowga in WineCountryDuring the winter, Yogachelan offers a unique retreat with Snowga – an innovative combination of snowshoeing and yoga. A unique alternative to the traditional snow sport, Snowga-goers will enjoy a two and a half hour excursion as they snowshoe up the mountain through vineyards on the Echo Ridge Trail. Along the way, stops are made overlooking the stunning view of Lake Chelan and the Chelan Valley for yoga poses in the snow. At the top, attendees bask in the view with hot Yogi tea and delicious treats provided by the local Bear Foods Market. The retreat is offered on two separate weekends in January, during Lake Chelan’s Winterfest, an annual festival that boasts family-fun activities, ice sculptures, wine tasting, beach bonfires and more.
Yoga Digest FavoritesFood
Marcela’s Cocina Mexicana • Local Myth Pizza • 18 Brix
AccommodationsGrandview on the Lake
ActivitiesChamber of Commerce Visitors Center • Grape StompingElectric Bike Rides to Tsillan Cellars and Tunnel Hill Winery
Heal Wellness Studio Massage • Benson Vineyards
As a Yogi, I see the Chelan Valley as a place for connec-tion to the environment. Dipping my feet into the deep blue waters of Lake Chelan and seeing the reflection of the clear blue skies above. Walking the paths and trails in the hills and enjoying the changing seasons of the apple orchards and the vineyards. And then there is nothing more beautiful than the snow covered mountains that reach all the way to the shores of the lake and the snow and the water meet. Yet, we are also a playground of activities. It is these activities that bring so many visitors to our small town of 4,000: nearly 30 wineries to explore, water skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, biking, running, parasailing, electric biking, restaurants (vegan specials), shopping, and of course, YogaChelan with classes, events, and adventures.
YogaChelan combines yoga with a variety of outdoor events: snow shoeing (Snowga), paddle board yoga, yoga at the wineries, hiking and barefoot yoga walks, zip lining, horse back riding, river rafting; and indoor events: candlelight yoga, spa yoga, wine tasting, yoga in the dark, wedding and bachelorette party yoga.
We believe that yoga is for more than the yoga studio, it is part of life. Our mind, our body, our breath, our spirit.
-Lynda Kennedy, Owner of YogaChelan
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I had the honor of sitting down with Dallas Brown,
Chopra Center Marketing Director and Producer of
Deepak Chopra’s 2015 Global Meditation. When I asked
her how this global event came to be, she said, “It was
the perfect accident. When we launched the first Global
Meditation in the summer of 2014, we had no idea that
it would go viral. We were all overwhelmed by the state
of the world and desperate to do something to help.
Connection and healing was so needed in that moment.
140,000 people from nearly every country in the world
participated. We set the Guinness World Record for the
largest synchronized meditation in history. It was magic.”
Brown went onto say, “This past June 2015, we live-
streamed our 2nd Global Meditation for Compassion
in English and Spanish. People organized their own
community events in cities around the world. That
was amazing to us but we realized that it made so
much sense. People come together for Super Bowl
and to watch the results on election night, so why
not come together and meditate for a cause we all
The World is
Waking Up“We are riding a wave right now, and that
wave is ‘the ocean of consciousness’,”
says Sara Harvey, Chief Operating Officer,
The Chopra Center. BY KIM BAUMAN
WWW.YOGADIGEST.COM60
care so deeply about? There were 240 satellite events
organized world-wide.”
So what is The Chopra Center’s Global Meditation? It’s
what happens when you get people from all around the
world to stop whatever they are doing, listen to Deepak,
and learn about meditation. It’s literally hundreds of
thousands of people meditating at the same time, sharing
the same intention to create a more peaceful world by
finding more peace in themselves. “We can’t offer any-
thing we don’t already possess so it’s got to start with
us. That’s Deepak’s teaching,” says Brown.
Next year, 2016, is The Chopra Center’s 20th anniversary.
Brown says, “Everything we do is driven by Deepak and
his work in the world. Deepak has a vision of creating a
critical mass that will push us to a tipping point of social
change. Our work is to share meditation with one billion
people. The idea is that if you know who you really are, then
it’s impossible to do harm to yourself or to others because
the truth of who we are is love, compassion, divinity, and
pure consciousness. When we meditate we remember who
we are, and when you know that, there’s no conflict. Now
is an exciting time to be alive, the world is waking up.”
Brown says, “We’re all about proof. Don’t take my or
Deepak’s word for it, come have your own experience.
People are afraid to get quiet and go inward. It’s a scary
thing because in our culture there is no space for silence
in our busy lives. However, it is the essence of who we
are, it’s how we get to know ourselves and find answers to
questions like, Who am I? What do I want? And what’s my
purpose? These are everybody’s questions and you already
have the answers, it’s just about getting quiet enough to
hear. No matter your age, background, income, or belief
system, we’re all seeking to know ourselves. And we could
all use a few tools and techniques to help us get there.”
When Brown said these words, my heart beamed
and my body goose-bumped. This is the magic the
world is waking up to. This is what it is to change the
world. So often we want to look outside of ourselves
and fix people. We think the way to change the world
is to stop terrorism or pass new laws, but what if we all
healed ourselves first? As Deepak says, “to create a more
peaceful world, we must first find peace from within.”
For more information on The Chopra Center, please
visit: www.chopracenter.com
Kim Bauman Founder, The One Love MovementThe Chopra Center is located in Carlsbad, California.
It was created to be a space for healing with the mission
to be the global source for balance and transforma-
tion. “The number one way we do that is by sharing
meditation with the world through live events, teacher
trainings, our 21-Day Meditation Experience with Oprah
& Deepak, and online education,” says Brown. “We’ve
also launched our first kids meditation app called, ‘My
Light Shine Bright.’ The app is composed of 22 guided
meditations focused on gratitude, connections, celebrat-
ing differences, and embracing who you are. Imagine if
all kids had access to yoga and meditation growing up?”
C onnection. Study after study provides endless data illustrating that more than anything as hu-man beings, we want to be seen, felt and heard.
We buy books, we go to seminars, we race to our yoga mats in search of it. Yet oddly enough, as much as we go looking for it, we find and create new ways to avoid it. Settling instead for surface intimacy, co-dependence, or isolation.
What is this paradox about? To be truly seen, felt and heard is the deepest longing of the soul and yet we resist it as much as we crave it.
Like anything worth having, the road to it is marked with effort, requirements and a leap of faith.
Taking risks At some point in life, our choices went from what felt right in the moment, to what will and won’t cause harm, embarrassment or loss.
Sometimes in crow pose it’s fun to remind students who glance nervously around the room and are hesitant to even lift one foot up, that they are safely hovering about 6 inches off the ground. The only thing that tends to get hurt if they fall is their ego.
We think the risk is solely in taking a chance, but there is also risk in not doing anything at all. It may not end up like you thought, but every outcome serves you. Is there a more valuable teacher in life than experience? If asked about the moments that really shaped and defined us, we
How To Get WhatWe Really Want
BY MELANIE TAYLOR
It’s amazing what people will do for scraps of love. The struggle, as they say, is real.
62
would surely recall the moments we were stretched far outside our comfort zone. Of all the emotional costs to pay, regret and living small can be a steep price indeed.
Managing FearThere is fear in being truly seen. I’ll never forget a training I went to years ago. We were lined up in front of each other and we weren’t to speak or touch. The exercise was to simply stand 6 inches apart and take turns looking each other in the eyes for several minutes. The initial fear in the room was palpable; it was like we suddenly didn’t know what to do with our arms and hands. Some later went on to describe they would have been happier if the earth had suddenly opened up at their feet and swallowed them whole rather then look into a stranger’s eyes. Compare it conversely with looking into the eyes of a child or even a pet. Kids and animals are so present, so grounded in their bodies that the desire to connect feels as natural as breathing.
Looking someone in the eye, letting others see into our hearts, flaws and all produces an overwhelming fear that can be hard to navigate through. However letting ourselves be exposed in the face of fear is a high frequency vibration that instantly resonates and allows people to feel safe and grounded.
VulnerabilityWhen we stand back we see that forming connections in ways that are meaningful is vulnerable. It requires us
to step off an internal cliff and can create a feeling of falling with no net.
The idea of rejection or failure holds us back. How-ever the stories we love to share with others typically revolve around an individual or group of people that was brave. Think about it! No great story ever included the phrase, “I was too nervous so I just sat back.” Or “We thought about it, but ultimately decided against it.”
Reaching out to each other leaves us exposed, but it’s where we encounter the shared qualities that actually make us more alike than different. American philoso-pher William James may have explained it best when he said; ‘We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.’
Taking risks, choosing action in the face of fear, let-ting go of what others think and standing in our truth not only gets us what we want, but empowers others to do the same.
And just like that we get what we actually want: Deep, whole, meaningful connection where we are truly seen for whom we are and we no longer settle for the scraps.
Melanie Taylor is a 500 ERYT who teaches athletic, sweaty, light-hearted but inspirational power yoga classes designed to lead people to their true nature. Her teaching focuses on restoring and nourishing mind, body and soul through active meditation.
“When we step into the unknown with the intention to truly connect, we end up coming
Toward HappinessHow I Approach My Career Like Yoga
BY JAMES McCRAE
I still remember the first time I tried yoga. It was the dead of winter in New York City and, as I walked into the dimly lit yoga studio, I felt a little out of
place. Casually looking around the room, I watched an array of bearded, beaded yogis giving each other greetings and salutations I did not comprehend. I must have missed the memo because I was the only person not dressed head to toe in white. My five o’clock shad-ow and Nike sneakers stood out amidst the draping white linen and prayer beads. Some of them even wore turbans. “Where do you even buy something like that?” I asked myself, making a mental note to check Amazon later. It was my first yoga class and I didn’t know what
to expect. I was a little uncomfortable, but the steady rhythm from the brass gong in the corner kept me relaxed, even uplifted. “Here goes nothing,” I thought.
Midway through the session, everything clicked. I could feel my muscles stretching, expanding, and re-leasing pent-up toxins as I down-dogged only a little behind the rhythm of the group. I felt connected with my body and with myself.
Afterwards, I was tired. My muscles had left their com-fort zone and stretched into uncharted territories. It felt fulfilling, but it was not comfortable. This is expected. Expanding yourself, whether in life or in yoga class, is never comfortable. But this soreness ultimately feels great because it is life affirming. It is an indication of personal growth.
I try to approach my career like yoga. I stretch and bend myself to test the limits of my ability. When I get too comfortable, I stretch myself further, learning new mental postures that expand myself beyond my comfort zone. Stretching ourselves beyond what we know is how we grow. Challenging ourselves and embracing uncer-tainty is how we remain fresh, alive, young and inspired.
We can only grow (as people and professionals) by challenging our personal status quo. When we stopping stretching we become stiff, immobile and stuck. Toxins build up and energy stops flowing. We even start to look downtrodden in our faces and body language. Why is that? Because everything in life is connected, and how we approach one thing affects everything else, including our appearance, our happiness and financial abundance. How we do one thing is how we do everything.
Whenever I have a meeting in my office, I often remember my first yoga class. I ask myself, “How can I stretch my talents further? What new posture can I try on this project?” While it might be easier to simple go through the motions and approach each day with the same proven methods, doing so does not allow us to grow. We make progress by testing the limits and stretching beyond our comfort zone. You may get a little sore, but your body (and your career) will thank you.
James McCrae is a Hay House author and creator of Simple Strategies to Overthrow Your Ego and Become the Hero of Your Story.
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AUTOSEAL® Kangaroo Water BottleFor those tired of fumbling with their keys, credit cards and gym pass while working out, Contigo is here to help you shed the extra weight with the AUTOSEAL® Kangaroo Water Bottle with Pocket. The innovative built-in pocket allows you to stay hydrated while keeping your small personal items close by. This inventive bottle eliminates the annoyance of hauling a cumbersome bag or leaving your belongings out-of-site in a locker.
www.ihomeaudio.com
$19.99
iBT55 rechargeable Bluetooth mini-speakerBring the music wherever you go with the iBT55 rechargeable Bluetooth
mini-speaker. Stream wireless audio from your Bluetooth-enabled mobile
device (iPhone, iPad, iPod, Android, Windows and more). Pairing is simple
with the 2-color charging/pairing LED indicator. You’ll keep the music play-
ing for 6 hours with the long-lasting rechargeable battery. The special de-
sign provides surprising volume and bass response in a small space-sav-
ing speaker that fits in your hand, on a keychain or clips to your belt or
backpack. A micro USB cable is included for charging speaker. The iBT55
from iHome. Portable design and sound beyond size. Audio zen.
www.gocontigo.com
$13.99
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2015
Organic InfusionsCalifornia-based Organic Infusions offers an
extensive selection of certified organic, wild-
crafted aromatherapy oils, from grounding and
balancing Sandalwood Essential Oil to soothing
and calming High Altitude Lavender Essential
Oil. Founder and Certified Master Aromather-
apist Rose Heart hand-selects organics from
more than 20 countries around the world to
create 100% pure, therapeutic grade aroma-
therapy oils with the intent of bringing harmony
to individuals, communities, farmers, and the
planet. The company’s “Harmony Guarantee”
ensures customers are 100% satisfied with the
balance, calm, and rejuvenation its products
deliver. Organic Infusions’ clients include some
of the country’s top spas, yoga studios, and
alternative medicine practitioners.
Sundara Holistic: Ayurvedic SkincareSundara Holistic: Ayurvedic Skincare Launched by NYC-based Ayurvedic practitioner Kiera Nachman, this skincare line is formu-lated for each of the doshas. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or oily skin, you will find a product suited to your needs. The line also features several Tridoshic products, meaning compatible with all skin types. The line features botanical face oils, body and hair oils, and a unique lip balm and undereye cream, both made with ghee, turmeric, and saffron. Bring some healing into your loved ones’ lives this holiday season with some aromatic, non-toxic, food-grade skincare, to bring beauty and radiance from the inside, out.
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$78.50Starter kit
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ndaraholistic.com$45Editor favorite,
Vata Face Serum
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Ahnu - Chenery BootHit the urban terrain in style and comfort with the Chenery Boot. The contemporary design fuses our iconic Montara Boot DNA into a metropolitan lifestyle boot, with heavy deco-rative stitch details, padded suede collar and outdoor-inspired hardware. Beyond the rich, waterproof full-grain leathers and water-resistant textured suedes, we’ve included out-of-the-box comfort with a memory foam footbed, layered on top of an EVA midsole and flexible rubber outsole, while the lace up system and medial side zipper provide a custom fit and easy on/off solution – perfect for travel or any city expedition.
Tanya-b LifewearTanya-b is a grassroots yoga lifewear brand
founded by Tanya Boulton and Anna Chung,
two NYC yoga teachers who created a world-
wide yoga tribe. Their collection is designed
to be sexy yet functional, inspired by the busy
urban lifestyle, so each piece can go from
the studio to “real life”. From Hong Kong to
New York, the collection has become a hit,
gaining momentum through their collabora-
tive partnerships with the people, brands, and
charities that align with their vision. Their sig-
nature halter top and colorful leggings have
quickly become an athleisure staple, perfect
for vinyasa, spin, and everything in between.
www.ahnu.com
$180
tanya-b.com
$86tanya-b.com
$89
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YUNIYUNI is the first natural beauty brand designed to enhance the Yoga
practice. With a collection of products, YUNI brings the goodness of
Yoga to everyday life. The plant-based formulas are made with organic
ingredients sourced ethically from around the globe. This set is complete
with travel size products that enhance and prolong the effect of your Yoga
practice while on-the go! This travel kit includes: No-Rise Body Cleansing
Foam, Rejuvenating Hand Cream, Concentrated Body Cleansing Crème,
Aromatic Body Mist, and Hydrating Body Conditioner. Also available at
YogaWorks, Credo Beauty and other yoga and specialty retailers.
Yoloha Yoga MatDiscover the world’s first yoga mat to utilize a natural cork surface. Yoloha hand builds their yoga mats in the USA with an unmatched grip that increases the more you sweat and a naturally antimicrobial sur-face. Made from 100% recyclable, eco-friendly materials that contain no PVC’s or harmful chemicals. Plus, have a name, initials or short quote laser engraved on the mat. Makes the perfect gift for your favorite yogi!
yunibeauty.com
$39
yolohayoga.com
$119Starting at
2015
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The Yoga Poses stationary setCelebrate your love for yoga with stylish stationery adorned with your favorite poses! Add your name for a personal touch. The Yoga Poses stationery set by Bloom Designs includes original artwork on 10 cards and 10 envelopes packaged in a clear box. Cards measure: 6 x 4.5 x 1 inches. $14. Available at bloomdesigns.com
BuddhiBoxKarma in a Box. Yogi-inspired
gifts that give back. At Buddhi-
Box everything we do is based
on the three principles of yoga:
discover, compassion and
union. You’ll discover mindful
living essentials that enhance
your yoga practice on and off
the mat. And all our products
are made with compassion.
That means they’re ethically
sourced, cruelty-free, and creat-
ed with intention. Plus a portion
of our proceeds are donated to
a different charity every month.
We can’t wait for you to join
our community. Together we’ll
make life buddhiful.
bloo
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$14
buddhiboxes.com
$27.95Starting at
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Light and LotusAt Light and Lotus we believe jewelry can serve a purpose on your
journey. Our name Light and Lotus inspires you to rise and bloom
like the Lotus flower. Through muddy waters, the Lotus flower trans-
forms into a beautiful flower just like we often shine after we have
experienced struggle in our lives. Pictured: Beach Goddess Trio, a
set of three calming bracelets inspired by the ocean and Affirmation
Bracelets, each with a positive message intended to serve as a
reminder to the wearer. 10% of proceeds go to the Animal Rescue
League of Boston.
One Year Wiser: 365 Illustrated MeditationsOne Year Wiser: 365 Illustrated Meditations by Mike Medaglia, a zen Buddhist practitioner and a Huffington Post writer who draws a monthly meditation comic. On every page of One Year Wiser are words of wisdom from thinkers both ancient and modern - from the Buddha to Abraham Lincoln to Anne Frank. Brought to life by Mike Medaglia’s stunning artwork, the spiritual teachings that fill this book will inspire readers to make reflection and meditation a daily habit.
I n early August Yoga Digest went to Salt Lake City, Utah, for the annual Summer Outdoor Retailer show. This is one of the largest athletic wear and
gear trade shows in the world. And as always, it drew hundreds of vendors representing every major (and many minor) US sportswear and equipment brands.
They were there to showcase their new products for 2016 and after three days of perusing the aisles and talking with product reps, retail buyers, merchandis-ing managers and company owners we learned that the options available for yoga wear and yoga gear are simply exploding with potential. Yoga attire, for example, has become so popular outside the studio that brands that normally specialize in other types of sportswear –for example, running shoes or winter jackets –are unveiling full yoga lines in 2016. This included brands like Columbia, which is known best for cold weather jackets.
In other words, if you are one of those yogis who like to wear their yoga clothes running errands – or even on days when you aren’t even thinking of stopping by the studio for a class – then know you are riding the wave of a hot new trend. As we have written about before, athleisure, as that fashion phenomenon is known, is a big deal.
From a general style trend perspective, several yoga lines introduced products made from very soft fabrics like bamboo. Tasc, which has headquarters in vibrant New Orleans, is introducing a yoga/athleisure line made from bamboo. These fabrics feel better than silk, plus have natural wicking and antimicrobial properties (translated: help reduce that post-workout sweaty feel and smell). This line features bright colors and eye catching patterns.
But most of the other brands we saw featured muted colors and classic black basics, including Columbia and a new brand called Coliseum. Cory Vines, a Ca-nadian-based designer, is introducing a Spring Sum-mer 2016 line that combines soft bamboo fabric with elegant black meshing and burnouts. Pieces from that
line could easily be worn at night on the town. My favorite piece from that line (and possibly in general at this point) is a black mesh zip jacket that perfectly drapes one’s curves.
Another general trend we noticed was that the higher price point brands offered pant pr legging materials that were fairly compressive. Lower rend brands seemed to have more give, but also less stretch recovery. In addition to yoga clothes, we looked for accessories and supportive gear.
Below are a few of our favorites.
The Planet Zak “Hydra Trak” Water Bottle www.zak.com OK, I know, this is a water bottle. But it’s a really great one. Whether you are doing hot yoga, or conventional, you need a good water bottle. This one has an insulated double wall, a straw, a flap that can seal the straw hole to prevent spills, and movable multi colored rings to help you track how much water you’ve consumed in a given day, or the number of yoga classes you’ve attended in a given week. It’s awesome.
Altra 2.5 Zero Drop Running Shoes www.altrarunning.comYes, I know, these are running shows. But with more and more yoga workouts being tied to other activities like run-ning or circuit training, you need an athletic shoe versatile enough to work in multiple environments plus fashionable enough to look great with your sassy new yoga ensemble (more on that later).
This shoe is designed for multi use and has what Altra calls a “Zero Drop” footbed , where the heel and toes are equidistant from the ground. It also has a wide toe box, so that your feet won’t feel cramped after a good yoga work-out. This shoe is also lightweight and available in a variety of colors.
Cobian Footwear www.cobianusa.comWith the growing popularity of Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga as well as beachside yoga classes, we were curious to find out if any of the sandal brands popular with surfers were venturing into the yoga attire space. It seems like a natural fit, given the styling of many yoga clothes, and the overall causal nature of yoga attire. While none seemed to be zero-ing in on yoga-philes, several are offering shoes that make an ideal companion to one’s favorite yoga attire, on beach or dry land, plus can slip on or off easily.
At this show, Cobian was a standout, pun intended. We tried on a new version of their Braided Bounce line called the Lalati. It was like walking on a cloud, with arch support. The top straps were snug, but not too tight, and the cushy feel underfoot was just right, plus this shoe is available at a lower price point than many other brands. In addition, the heel bed is slightly higher than the toe bed, giving this shoe a slightly dressier look than a typical pair of flip flops.
Ahnu Yogasport www.Ahnu.comAhnu is traditionally known for boots, sandals and perfor-mance wear. A few years ago the company introduced a shoe for wear to and from yoga called the Karma. This was one of the first shoes specially designed to go with yoga togs and has become one of the shoes most seen in yoga studios. For 2016, with the growing interest in all forms of yoga attire, as well as demand for shoes that can fit differ-ent types of workouts, Ahnu has introduced an entire yoga line of shoes called “Yogasport.” This includes a workout shoe designed for those days when you need to transition quickly from the gym to your yoga class and a new line of yoga clothes.
Yopgasport also includes apparel, and that’s a big a big deal. This is the first time Ahnu has offered yoga pants or tops. Through a collaboration with a brand called Nux, Ahnu is
ushering in a full line of yoga attire for 2016 that includes bras, sleeveless and long sleeved tops, a variety of fashion forward leggings and a gorgeous hoodie with a back cut out to die for.
Lucy Women’s Activewear www.lucy.comWe have talked about Lucy before in this column, and yes, we will again because their new line for 2016 says some very interesting things about the future (or at least near future) of yoga wear. While some brands are going crazy colorful, Lucy is staying put with more subdued hues, includ-ing our favorite blacks and grays. But they are also adding in a new line of fuller, looser yoga bottoms designed to be worn all the time.
The new line for 2016 showcased at Summer OR, as it’s known, included culottes, palazzo pants and blousy pants that have “stay-put” ties at the cuff. This is a versatile line that you can dress up or down, depending on the day and your activities. At the show we spoke with the line’s mar-keting manager, who just happened to be wearing a pair of Capri’s from that line.
While at the show, she was staying up in Park City – a mountain town 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, best known for the Sundance Film Festival. Park City is also home to wonderful mountain hiking and earlier in the day she wore that same pair of Capri’s while hiking in the Rocky Mountain foothills. After we spoke she took in a yoga class wearing the same outfit. She says the focus for Lucy’s 2016 line is on pants, tops, bras and other pieces “you can wear everywhere” that are designed for style but also performance. Their 2016 line is keyed into what she called the “loose trend” that helps you just get going, wherever that may be, without unnecessary downtime making costume changes.
That’s just a sample of the many new clothes and accessories we saw. We’ll have more for you in future issues of Yoga Digest in my “Fashion & Function” column. So stay tuned!
Glenna can be reached at [email protected] or www.linkedin.com/in/glennamusante
I t’s the most magnificent time of the year, an enchant-ed time of merrymakings, feasts and generous gifts. Every holiday has a ritual, a history that enlightens
the reason for rejoicing it. In day-to-day life people are busy working and dealing with pressures. That’s why in every culture, holidays provide an indispensable break. It’s also the best time to appreciate your family and friends. Unfortunately it also can be a time for over-eat-ing, over-drinking, over-working and over-stressing.
Between the never-ending shopping adventures, traveling, and festivities; one is likely to spiral themselves into a season of out-of-control activities and stress binge.
Of course, none of this is inescapable. With a little help from Ayurveda and your own mindfulness, we can stay happy and healthy throughout the chaos that the holidays may bring. Whether you are traveling or staying home, these simple reminders will keep you energized and fit all season long.
Ayurveda This Holiday Season
Maintain Harmony With
BY MEENAKSHI GUPTA
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Stay in a routineNothing creates more anxiety than an inconsistent routine. When there is certainty, there is less anxiety. Start by waking up and going to sleep at the same time; try to have meals at the same time every day, and set a time for a daily walk, meditation or yoga. Trying to keep an optimal sleep cycle, eating schedule and exercise routine is a very effective way of keeping balance throughout this season of celebration.
Make healthy digestion a priorityDuring this season of parties, potlucks and Christmas cookies it is easy to over tax our digestion; leading one to sluggishness, toxic build-up and ailment. Some humble ways to keep digestion sturdy are to avoid grazing, eating without hunger, overeating. Eating well-cooked, flavorful meals will help to aid digestion. Avoid raw foods and eat local, seasonal foods that are fully cooked and served warm. Stews and soups are all excellent options during the winter months. Turmeric and ginger are anti-inflam-matory and help to strengthen the digestive fire (agni). Cayenne is especially helpful in eliminating mucus and flushing toxins from the body. Garlic is also heating and supports heart heath. Avoid iced beverages, opting for room-temperature or warm drinks.
Meditation and YogaMost yoga poses can be relaxing when done slowly and with breath awareness. Shoulder stand (sarvangasana), plow pose (halasana), half spinal twist (ardha matsyendrasana), locust pose (shalabhasana), and lion pose (simhasana) are great for stress relief. Meditation is different for everyone. Choose the one that fits you. Take a 5 min Shavasana, enjoy a 10 min Yoga Nidra or do a Deep Breathing exercise. What-ever you choose to do, concentrate on being in the present, being aware of your body, and your breath.
Warm Oil MassageUse warm sesame or almond oil and add a drop of lavender essential oil to calm the mind and nervous system. Do self-body massage and wrap yourself in a warm bathrobe. Rest for at least 15 minutes and concentrate on your breathing. A warm oil massage will boost energy level during the day and induce peaceful sleep at bed time.
Herbal TeasAge-proven plants like chamomile, brahmi (gotu kola), tulsi (holy basil), peppermint, licorice root, or valerian root have a calming stress relieving effect. Ginger is a vital daily necessity during these times of heavy foods, drinking and overall sluggishness. This sharp and penetrating root is a great way to keep your digestion robust, your metabolism strong, remove toxins and keep the energy flowing.
Letting GoWe tend to hold on to memories, experiences and feelings and more so to the negatives. The similar festive setups and individuals can at times stir back memories, experienc-es and, feelings causing of grief. Gently remind yourself of your strengths, love and compassion. The art of letting go and forgiveness is the best gift you can give it to yourself.
Namaste and Happy Holidays! Meenakshi Gupta was classically trained in India and has been practicing and teaching Ayurveda worldwide since 1998. She has natural flair for a life devoted to the study and practice of ancient Indian science. Her specialties are wellness counseling, lifestyle man-agement, and Panchakarma therapies (natural detox & rejuvenation).
Ingredients16 small red potatoesSalt and pepper½ cup sour cream3 tablespoons snipped fresh chives ½ cup shredded cheese
Procedure1. Scrub potatoes well, place in a
pan and cover with cold water by at least 1 inch. Add 1 tsp. salt, bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until potatoes are tender and a knife can be inserted easily, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain; let cool.
2 Cut each potato in half crosswise. Trim a small slice from the bottom of each half so it stands upright.
3. With a melon baller or teaspoon, remove center of each potato, leaving a ¼-inch border. Put potato flesh in a bowl and mash with sour cream; season with salt and pepper. Fill each potato half with sour cream mixture and sprinkle with chives and cheese.
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Hot Curried NutsServes - 12Serving Size - 2 tablespoons
Ingredients24 button mushrooms2 roma tomatoes, diced1 cup of spinach, finely chopped¼ cup red onion, diced½ cup crumbled feta cheesebalsamic glaze
Procedure1. Preheat oven to 350. 2. Wash and remove stems from mushrooms and place on a baking sheet.3. Toss next 4 ingredients in a small bowl until evenly blended. Fill each mushroom cap with mixture.4. Bake for 10 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
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Easy Spinach Artichoke DipServes - 12Serving Size - 1/2 cup
Ingredients½ cup sour cream¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
6 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded and
divided (about 1 ½ cups)
1 ounce fresh Parmesan cheese, grated and divided
(about 1/4 cup)
Procedure1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Combine first 7 ingredients in a large bowl, stirring until
well-blended. Add 4 ounces (1 cup) mozzarella and 2
tablespoons Parmesan; stir well. Spoon mixture into
a broiler-safe 1 ½-quart glass or ceramic baking dish.
Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup mozzarella and remaining
2 tablespoons Parmesan. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
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Ingredients8 oz. cream cheese, softened½ cup (2 ounces) grated fresh Parmesan cheese½ cup finely chopped seeded tomato2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro½ teaspoon sea salt16 jalapeño peppers, seeded and cut in half lengthwise
Procedure1. Prepare grill to medium-high heat.2. Combine first 7 ingredients in a bowl,
stirring well. Spoon about 2 teaspoons of cheese mixture into each pepper half. Place pepper halves, cheese side up, on grill. Grill peppers 5 minutes or until bottoms of peppers are charred and cheese mixture is lightly browned. Carefully place peppers on a serving platter. Serve immediately.
B efore we had pharmaceuticals, plants were our medicine for preventative and healing pur-poses. Many of the herbs and spices found in
everyday cooking have powerful and positive effects on our health, and can be an integral in avoiding or recovering from a disease. Sometimes, though, trying to consciously incorporate these beneficial plants into our everyday meals proves to be more challenging and time-consuming than we are prepared for. Luckily Ground 2 Table, an organic food company, has made
this task so much simpler by developing 12 perfectly portioned sugar, salt, and GMO free blends to add flavor and accessible wellbeing to all of your meals.
All twelve blends are packed with beneficial herbs and spices, loaded with delicious, superior flavor, and are an effortless addition to any meal or snack. Who knew healthy living could taste so good – and be so easy? If you are interested in getting your hands on your own set of these fabulous blends, you can find them at www.ground2table.com.
Benefits of SpicesBY JAY FISHMAN / CEO / GROUND 2 TABLE
Wondering which herbs or spices will start your body off right? Here are a few of our favorites.
Cayenne, one of the predominant ingredients in Spice Blend 3 – a dynamic and zippy taco seasoning – is a warming circulatory stimulant and is also a powerful aid to immune support, making it a must-have spice during cold and flu season. Add this blend to hummus for a little extra kick or use it as part of a dry-rub or marinade for meat or tofu.
Basil and Rosemary, two of the primary ingredients in Spice Blend 9 have powerful effects on the digestive system, with basil relieving pain and bloating, and rosemary facilitating the digestion of fats and starches. Add this highly aromatic herbal blend to your healthy homemade tomato sauce, roasted vegetables, or mid-week chick-en dinner for an added flavorful flair.
Fenugreek, one of the key spic-es in cinnamon-spice Blend 12, has been shown to lower blood sugar levels making it a must-have food in a diabetic diet. Mix this delicious sweet or savory blend into your morning oatmeal or post-workout smoothie to start your day off right and filled with energy.
W inter. Just the thought of it can make us want to flee to the trop-ics until the first sign of spring.
When we are faced with the long, cold win-ter months, we immediately get the urge to hibernate. This may not be the worst idea - there is good reason for our bodies to be sending us this message.
While summertime is often filled with a busy social calendar and time spent basking in the sun, winter is the perfect season to look within, and nurture your body and mind. Ayurveda, the ancient holistic system of health and healing - and yoga’s sister science - teaches us how to live within the laws and rhythms of nature.
As humans, we are actually inseparable from nature. According to Ayurveda, we are made of the same material as the rest of the universe: we are a microcosm of the macrocosm. So, as the seasons shift, so do our bodies. In order to stay in balance, stay healthy and avoid disease, we must follow a seasonal routine, or Ritucharya.
WHAT TO AVOIDRAW FOODS AND SALADS These are difficult to di-gest in Vata season, and will unbalance you during this time. Summer (Pitta season) is the best time to eat raw vegetables.
Bitter, astringent and pungent foods. Indulge instead in sweet, salty and sour tastes, which will balance Vata.
LEFTOVERS, RAW FOODS, CANNED FOODS, PRO-CESSED FOODS These will aggravate Vata. Eating fresh, homemade, sattvic meals is best for Vata types.
COFFEE AND CAFFEINATED TEA Especially for Va-ta-dominant types, these are too stimulating. Consume in moderation.
DRY SNACK FOODS This includes chips, popcorn, crackers, and dry, cold cereal.
In the wintertime, when we look around us, our environment is cold, windy, and dry. A fundamental rule in Ayurveda is that like increases like. So, if we are in a season that has certain qualities, we want to bring the opposite qualities into our diet and lifestyle, so that we don’t fall out of balance - and fall prey to disease.
Vata season lasts from approximately mid-October to the end of February. Since our external environment during this time is light, cold and dry, we want to avoid these characteristics in the foods we choose. Instead, incorporate heavy, warming, moist, and nourishing foods and remedies into your daily life. Also, digestion is stronger in winter, so please stay mindful that our bodies can consume larger portions of food than in other seasons.
Let’s take some time for ourselves this winter season, by incorporating some Ayurvedic Ritucharya tips into our daily life. The health benefits will last into the spring and beyond.
Kiera Nachman is an Ayurvedic practitioner based in New York City, where she has a private practice. Kiera created Sundara Holistic, an Ayurvedic skincare and wellness brand, with a commitment to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. Sundara Holistic products are 100% natural and non-toxic, using only food-grade and plant-based ingredients. W
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Comfort ZoneIt happens almost every time I go. Even as I drive to my favorite place, I know later that evening I’ll be rummaging through the fridge for a snack. I under-stand that for many, sushi is problem-atic. I have friends, particularly those who enjoy hunting and fishing, who say, “sushi’s no more than overpriced bait.” And yes, when you break it down by cost per ounce, sushi doesn’t seem like a very good value.
But hey, I love sushi and it’s a great example of yoga!
That doesn’t mean that you’re going to find the best pose for digesting raw and exotic foods here. No, the elements of yoga I see on display at my favorite purveyor of Japanese cuisine are some of the deeper -- yet most often overlooked -- variety. They are elements at the very heart of the true nature of yoga: pure awareness and simple enjoyment.
The awareness is apparent as soon as you walk into a true sushi restaurant. Right away, the busy yet agile knife-wielding masters pause from their work to recognize your arrival and greet you with a respectful bow. There’s a classic yoga opening: paying attention to someone walking and offering a bow as a sign of greeting and respect. It’s just another form of Namaste or “the divine in me honors the divine in you.”
As you watch them create each piece of sushi, it be-comes apparent that they are truly focused, or as we say in yoga, fully present. The cleanliness and meticulous organization of each workstation demonstrates the same deep caring, absolute attention, and discipline that are the cornerstones of a yogic life. As they slice, perfect and uniform pieces of the highest quality ingredients, we can see that they display our true currency of life: attention. Attention to every movement and, indeed, every piece of fish. When finished with each ingredient, they thoughtfully place it where it can wait for the next individual to enjoy.
As for me, it all starts with the respect I bring to these establishments. I know they will recognize and acknowl-
edge me so I come ready to connect (connect, yes, yoga). I’m not rushing in on my cell phone, indicating with a couple of fingers the number of chairs required. I recall the words of the ever concise and a bit enigmatic, Lao Tzu, who advised us to be “courteous, like a houseguest.” I nod to the talented men behind the counter and reserve a smile for the ever-polite server who hands me the menu. The offerings are actually quite simple, usually made up of just a few ingredients. Like the poses and practices of yoga, the simple yet very deep combinations are profound and powerful.
While here, I try to refrain from my usual style of eat-ing (which, I’ve been told, closely resembles a seagull eagerly gulping down a meal). When surrounded by so many examples of yoga I adjust and slow everything down, taking time to first notice and then appreciate the look, smell, feel, and taste of every morsel, one at a time. Just as I teach in my classes, I try to slow life down to a breath – or in this case, a bite -- at a time. In sushi, as in life, quality overrides quantity every time.
Kurt Johnsen is the founder of the nationally recog-nized yoga system, American Power Yoga, and host of Yoga for Life. He is the CEO of Simplified Genetics, a health and lifestyle company offering proprietary genetic tests which generate actionable results for maintaining optimal fitness and assessing the genetic risks of traumatic head injuries.
The Yoga of Sushi
Out of Your
Interact with Kurt at YogaDigest.com/Kurt-Johnsen
With Kurt Johnsen
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