New Years Day

City Snow-ebo Gallery

Welcome 2010! Snowy and chilly outside while were settled in warm and content. In the background I can hear the sound of radiators giving off heat. The dogs are curled up having a snooze, steaming cup of coffee in my hand, breakfast cooking in the kitchen, a quiet sleeping neighborhood and a feeling of well being in my heart. Life feels here and now and just right. Jamaica was calm and restful. Hey mon, no problem! Gorgeous beaches, inviting and smooth ocean water and a warm sun. This little journey was exactly what a holiday is meant to be, relaxing. My little foray to the Caribbean gave me time to decompress and reflect. I am content with my personal state of affairs. I have no resolutions for the new year, nothing to radically re change or make new or different or better. Time to just to continue on with life. I feel it would serve me well to take each day as one and concentrate on the small things, breaking down my many projects to smaller more accessible tasks. My struggle with over maxed appointment books, overextended scheduled and an over obligated life cannot be solved in one year or in one resolution. One day at a time, one task at a time, one breath at a time, everything else is optional. aaahhhhh.

Blessing in the New Year to everyone.

Family Holiday

I'm off for a bit to relax, do yoga and be with loved ones.

Wishing everyone a very merry holiday.

Shalom,

See you soon !

Just one more

I was going to post Adam Sandlers Hanukkah song just for fun when I stumbled upon this, just a good vibe sort of moment. The kids are from the PS22 chorus in New York City. 70 fifth grade students, jewish, gentile, atheist or whatever. I like that very much....... enjoy

Happy Hanukkah

Tuesday

I have got to get a grip.

First Snow

Snow angels

White side walks

untouched by feet

Calling for the waiting children
in all of us

To lay in its perfection
To make tributes to our
every watching guardians

Becoming one with
nature
a feeling of belonging
in a universe full of mysteries

Look at earths creation
meshed with your own
fused
until shovels
scoop
or spring blooms

Snow angels
more than fun
its life

Vincent Armone

The Art of Racing in The Rain

To my beloved Cisco and all canines I have known who have brought such bliss and meaning to my life.

The Art of Racing in The Rain by Garth Seth chronicles one family's story as told through the eyes of their dog, Enzo. We are first introduced when his owner Denny Swift returns from work to find Enzo lying on a kitchen floor in a pool of urine, trying with increased panic to stand, mortified and determined to retain dignity. Enzo nearing the end begins his story, reflecting the personal meaning of this lifetime. He started as a young pup living with Denny in Seattle Washington. Denny has a vision of succeeding in the world of race car driving. They daydream of moving to a location closer to the action, perhaps even Europe. He and Enzo are well suited for each other and spend many happy hours watching races on TV, running in the park and letting the world unfold in all it's many splendid ways. Soon Eve enters, and their lives shift and expand to three, then four, with a little girl named Zoe. Dreams are replaced by a sweet reality, followed by ups, downs, tears, laughter, inconceivable events and heart wrenching outcomes. The Art of Racing in the Rain is one family members perspective while trying to come to terms with dramatic personal changes, family dynamics and the reality of adult life. For anyone who has ever loved a dog this is an exceptionally moving read.

In Memoriam

It's been one whole year since you left.

You are so dearly missed.

Not a day goes by without missing you, feeling your absence.

It's not the same without you.

You are always in my heart, my soul.

my sweet Mr. Snufaloveagus.

Cisco

October 10, 1995- December 2, 2008

Something for Monday

Enjoyment feeds my soul.

Judith Hanson Lasater

Tadagi Mudra

Tadagi Mudra

It's official! The holidays are upon on. There are all kinds of ways this merry little season can make life a challenge. Holiday get togethers, parties, big meals, and nibbles around the house and office can leave us feeling lackluster and bloated. Tadagi mudra is excellent for the digestive system, respiratory system, muscles of the pelvis and abdomen. It also has a good generalized effects on the organs and glands of the abdominal cavity by stimulating blood circulation.

Lean forward, grasp the big toes with the thumbs, index and second finger, head facing forward. Inhale expanding the abdomen to the fullest extent possible. retain the breath for a comfortable length of time( 5 count) then exhale slowly. Repeat 10 times, release the toes sitting upright. This is considered one round of tadagi mudra, complete 3 to 5 more.

This mudra should not be practiced under the following conditions intestinal ulcers, hernia, high blood pressure heart disease, glaucoma, menstruation, pregnancy.

Practice this mudra alone or before beginning your practice to stimulate the digestive energy in the abdomen.

Peace, love and Jai bhagwan everyone.

Thanksgiving hike

Burren Yoga, Galway Ireland

"There is nothing like walking to get the feel of the country. A fine landscape is like a piece of music; It must be taken at the right tempo. Even a bicycle goes too fast. "

Paul Scott Mowrer

Thanksgiving

Gratitude

is at once

Beautiful

And

Fruitful.

Sri Chinmoy

The Good American

Julia Child

Appetite for Life by Noel Riley Fitch is a thoroughly absorbing biography portraying the professional home chef and educator Julia Child. Fitch captures this woman's essence, bringing forth a vivid picture of her tremendous life drive. Julia had energy to burn and a deep desire to leave an imprint. She felt she had something special to give the world but needed a little time and space to figure out exactly what that would be. Two areas really struck a cord while reading about her life; destiny and capacity for joy.

Julia Child grew up in a conservative Brahmin household. She was expected to marry well, make a good wife, and uphold the conservative traditions inherited from her class and family. Julia was all for it, but obstacles lay in her way, for starters she was over 6' feet tall and finding a suitable man at the time proved daunting. She remained single long past what was considered a marriageable age. This allowed her to travel, explore life and eventually meet Paul Child. Without Paul there would be no Julia Child. He introduced her to passion and encouraged her brilliance and creativity. Julia was educated at Smith and worked at a variety of jobs before entering the secret service. The OSS offered her the opportunity to travel the world. As you read this biography you begin to see how all these experience wove together and were essential components. A strong message that even though we do not always know why we are where we are, or why what we want has not occurred, there is a reason for it. Julia Child needed the skills she acquired along the way to do what she eventually would. Even though these activities seemed unrelated, in the end we see they were essential to her eventual success. If she had married early in life, which was her desire, we would not know her, as she would have never found her passion and - to quote Maslow- self actualized. It really brings the point home, everything happens for a reason.

Julia had an insatiable capacity for joy. She was a social animal by nature, loving people, groups, and community. She loved living life and found great pleasure in whatever was happening. This woman saw the cup half full to overflowing at all times. She was quintessentially American and embodied the American spirit and what is really good about us as a people. A powerful reminder to have confidence in your individuality and shine on.

Bravo Julia and thank you

Autumn

Autumn Movement

I CRIED over beautiful things knowing no beautiful thing lasts.

The Fields of Cornflower yellow is a scarf at the neck of the copper sunburned woman, the mother of the year, the taker of seeds

The Northwest wind comes and the yellow is torn full of holes, new beautiful things come in the first spit of snow on the Northwest wind, and the old things go, not one lasts.

Carl Sandburg

In loving memory of Jeff Beatrice.

Time of your life

( borrowed from Sarah at Do Restorative Yoga)

I'm on a quest to heal my rotator cuff, at least that's what I thought when I began this little self help journey. Its been a frustrating exploration and the internal ache persists. My practice continues on a slow trajectory and expectations have been revised repeatedly. I teach a restorative class but rarely give myself the time to do my own medicinal practice. I preach healthy lifestyles but do not place enough emphasis on the healthy in my own lifestyle. Day after day dashing about like chicken little with a cell phone in my ear, too much coffee in my system and half the continents of my purse falling out while I'm running to my next appointment does not align with what I teach or ask of others. I want to slow down but never have enough time to get it all done, I tell myself, " I'm going to slow down and have more time once this is finished." How many of us have said that but once the next project or obligation rolls around were more like Bart Simpson “I don't know! I don't know why I did it, I don't know why I enjoyed it, and I don't know why I'll do it again!”

The universe is telling me something important, so I've shifted things a little and am trying to be still and put my listening ears on so I can hear what's being said, its important, but its hard being such a small voice among a lot of loud clatter.

The rotator cuff is connected to the arm and thus associated with the 4th chakra called Anahata. The 4th chakra is located in our heart center. It governs our intuition and love. It is also known as the heart chakra. Among other things Anahata is associated with lack, loss, less than, never having enough or some way limited. This is really profound for me since I spend a great deal of my life wishing I had more time. I am in a constant race to find time to get things done. I constantly complaint that that I do not have enough time and lack the ability or energy to get it (whatever it is) done in the time I have. This summer my father was quite ill and I found myself in a state of rage that the universe would take him away from me. No more time.

I cannot change the things that I cannot change. Self help advocates say we should delete the things that are sucking all our time away and return to a simpler place. Unfortunately this solution is not the right one for me at this point in my life. I do not need to take away anything more in my life, this is what got me into this psychological and physical mess in the first place. It's time to add a few things like acceptance of my abilities, bringing a slower pace to my daily existence, allowing myself time to feel the joy and the love I experience in what I do each day, cherishing what time I have with my father while he decides to stay a while longer, and yes absolutely adding more blocks, pillows and blankets to my personal yoga practice. Oh yes, its time.

Wishing much peace to everyone

Jai Bhagwan

A kinder, gentler season

About a month ago I was walking one of my dogs and took a nasty little fall and ended up with a slight injury to my rotator cuff. Added to this I have had a bit of a chest cold which has left me feeling tired and wanting to crawl in my comfy bed with a good book. Gentle is the word of the day this season. Gentle, slow flow. After a month hiatus from yoga I'm starting back, dropping frequently into child's pose. As the season changes I feel a deep appreciation for the colder weather, happy to slow down watch the leaves turn color and fall to the ground. Slowing down, listening to my body and actively seeking more peaceful days has brought the realization I have not been listening to my own needs or following the rhythm of my body. Once again its time to step back, spend time in the kitchen, do more breath work, drink less coffee and spend more time being instead of doing.

Wishing everyone a passive gentle day.

Reflection on Change

10,000
Ten thousand flowers in spring,

the moon in autumn,

a cool breeze in summer,

snow in winter.
If your mind isn't clouded by unnecessary things,

this is the best season of your life.

We Men

I love you Julia

This is the introductory sentence in the forward to Mastering The Art of French Cooking. "This is a book for the serventless American cook who can be unconcerned on occasion with budgets, waistlines, time schedules, children's meals, the parent-chauffeur-den mother syndrome, or anything else which might interfere with the enjoyment of producing something wonderful to eat." ............... Excellent.

Al Big Guy Yoga

The man sitting on all those blankets is Alan Haines. At the time this photo was taken Alan and I were part of a wonderful group of people doing our yoga teacher training at Kripalu. In November Alan will be giving a men only workshop called Big Guy Yoga. "At 6’2” and over 230 lbs he understands only too well the perception that one has to be extremely fit, thin or flexible to practice yoga. In his class the only thing that needs to be open and flexible is the mind. With a light hearted banter and regular reminders of the union of breath and movement, Alan emphasizes the "feel" of a posture more so than the look. His every-person approach to yoga and his gift of putting people at ease provides a comfortable environment for practitioners of all builds, backgrounds and ages to explore the benefits of yoga. He is a certified Kripalu and Yoga Ed k-8 teacher and has also completed the David Swenson 40 Hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training." This is going to be a fantastic workshop and I cant recommend it highly enough.

I am so proud of you Alan, you go big guy!

Reflection

"My beloved child, break your heart no longer.

Each time you judge yourself, you break your own heart.

You stop feeding on the love which is the wellspring of your vitality.

The time has come. Your time. To celebrate. And to see the goodness that you are.

You my child, are divine. You are pure. You are sublimely free.You are God in disguise.

And you are always perfectly safe.

Do not fight the dark. Just turn on the light.

Let go, And breathe into the goodness that you are."

Swami Kripalvanandaji (Bapuji)

Time and Patience

The Big 108!

Jarvis Chen Iyengar yoga teacher

Today I attended our local global Mala project. 108 sun salutations given by nine different yoga teachers from a variety of disciples. We did salutations in the form of Forest Anusara,Vinyasa, Kripalu, Iyengar and to our own funky beat. We got down into adho mukha svanasana with lady Ga Ga, and breathed and stretched to MC Yogi and in the end we danced in celebration to krishna das. It took about three in a half hours to get through it and there was a good deal of dropping into child's pose going on, but we made it! Each teacher had there own special way and all brought the love into the day. I highly recommend participating in your own mala be it at home or in a group. It's wonderful, albeit I'm so sore right now and just know its going to be rough going crawling out of bed the next few days.... but ah...... well worth it.

Peace to all,

Miss. S.

Shana Tova

Blessings and good cheer to everyone in the new year!

Yoga in Africa

This is so beautiful, its what heaven must be like. Actually it's a photo of Arusha National Park in Tanzania. OK here is my offer to you. A. get up EXTRA early, get out a shovel, wrap up like Nanook of the north you bastard its cold out there! Start shoveling your car out of that ice ridden snow infused driveway or parking space. Make the commute from hell to work. B. pack light but durable clothing, bring a yoga mat, your camera, and Hemingway's The Snows of Kilimanjaro and bring yourself to Paradise. Linda Sama of Meta Yoga will be leading a yoga retreat in the acacia forest, in Tazanzia, February 26,27,28. 2010. Linda is an old soul, peaceful and living in the light. She really has a way of making you feel good and know that no matter what is going on everything is going to be OK. Check out her blog and you'll see what I mean.

In the meantime here are some details. Tanzania (United Republic of Tanzania) is located in eastern Africa between Kenya and Mozambique, bordering the Indian Ocean. With an area twice the size of California, Tanzania contains spectacular landscapes and abundant natural resources. To name a few, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro are famous tourist destinations.

The full details for the retreat can be found here. There is an option to extend your stay and safari or stay in a beautiful hotel by the sea. The fee is amazingly reasonable and part of the proceeds will go toward The Seva Foundation. Good travels while building good karma, can't beat that!

Bon Voyage!

Peace on a Sunday Morning

When the mind is steady, we can see a little truth.

When the mind is disturbed, we can't see anything.

Growth allows a portion of the mind to remain

an objective witness even in the

face of disturbance. The witness is always there,

if we can keep a wakeful attitude.

Swami Kripalu

My Family and Other Animals

I just finished Gerald Durrell's completely enjoyable memoir of his childhood years on the Greek Island of Corfu between 1935 -1939. My Family and Other Animals is Durrell's study of wildlife on the Island as well as a comical sketch of his family. He, his two brothers, sister and mother head off to Greece where the climate is sunny and the culture more suitable to their offbeat personalities. Corfu opens up a world for the author which in turns effects the living planet. Gerald Durrell grew into adulthood to became a naturalist, zookeeper and environmentalist and eventually brought forth a new standard in zoo's. As an adult he eventually founded his own zoo on the premise that they should act as reserves and regenerators of endangered species. This was a new idea and veered substantially from zoos at the time where caged animals were treated more like circus entertainment. The Jersey Zoological Park founded in 1958 evolved into the Jersey Wildlife Preservation becoming a leading zoo in the field of captive breeding, championing the cause of such species as the Lowland Gorilla and various Mauritian fauna. Durrell's policies on a zoo as a preserve built for educating the general public, preserving a species and housing the animal in the least restrictive environment were new ideas for which he paid dearly in criticism and for a period of time even blacklisted from his professional community. By the time of his death in 1995 wildlife preserves, programs to save endangered animals, conservation trusts, and vast programs to educate the general public had been established and his policies are now the standard worldwide. His ashes are buried at the Jersey Zoo with this inscription by William Beebe.

"The beauty and genius of a work of art may be re-conceived, though its first material expression be destroyed; a vanished harmony may yet again inspire the composer; but when the last individual of a race of living beings breathes no more, another heaven and another earth must pass before such a one can be again."

Life in all its Beauty

"Dancing is silent poetry"

Simonides (556-468bc)

Yoga Month

Sometimes its not easy to get into our groove. A multitude of obligations and people dragging us away from our personal pursuits, into the abyss of checklists, must do now items and social interactions all pull us further and further away from our mats and toward the crossroads of hellish overindulgence and depression which intersects stress and ill health. (horrible place, get stuck there and you'll wait forever for that light to turn green!) With the best of intentions it can still be really difficult to sustain a regular practice. For some of us its the obligation of family, especially when our little ones are quite small. (This is a big discussion and one for another day.) I'm thinking more of extra work, work projects, demanding family members, obligations which take all our time and busy seasonal pursuits which can easily replace a class or even a home practice. Perhaps this Summer you thought you might be able to do a little something more on the mat but found only a limited amount of time, or perhaps you've been away. When your practice becomes a fond memory of something you used to do and really enjoyed its time to begin again. Start slow and choose your times wisely. I strongly feel if you can schedule in a class once a month SO BE IT, there's your practice! Just do it and make sure you schedule at least three sessions at a time in your agenda planner. Its quite possible once a month may very well turn into more, but only if you commit each month. Many of us are a little like a rolling stone that gathers no moth. Once we get going were likely to stay the course as long as there aren't too many obstacles in the way. The real challenge is picking up those first few classes.

I have a suggestion which may make it a little easier to get your practice rolling again. September is national yoga month. Once you have registered with the yoga month Internet site you can select a studio from their list which includes a multitude of studios from everywhere on the planet. Yoga month will email you a card to print out which you can use at your selected studio for one free week of yoga! The only hitch is you must be a new student to the studio. I selected a rockin' little place in my neighborhood I've been meaning to check out but haven't had the chance. My card is good for any week in September.

So come on, grab your mat, get your groove on and start the fall off on a good note.

Namaste and peace and love and a hug and a kiss too!

Global mala project

I know its summer but I think this is the coolest photo and really captured the essence of something I want to pass on to everyone. September 19, 2009 is a great day for yoga, It's a fantastic time to get your group groove on and sweat out 108 sun salutations with your fellow yogi's. You can do this with a couple of hundred yogi's or as a solitary practice in the comfort of your own home. The Global Mala Project is a peace project which incorporates all things right with the practice of yoga; asana, meditation, Seva and collective consciousness.

"The purpose of the Global Mala is to unit the global yoga community from every continent, school or approach to form a mala around the earth through collective practices based upon the sacred cycle of 108 on sept 19th or 20th, Fall Equinox as the yoga world's offering to further the UN International Peace Day."

Each center or student offers a form of Mala which includes:

• 108 sun salutations
• 108 rounds of Mantra
• 108 rounds of kriya
• 108 minutes of meditation or kirtan

Each center or student dedicates the practice to what they believe in. This may be in the form of donation or intention. Come on join us, its going to be great fun!

Beach Time

Anyone who knows me well or maybe even just a little soon understands my true love affair with beaches. I LOVE the beach and would happily spend my days in a bathing suit traipsing in the sand with dogs, frisbee, yoga mat, book or whatever. I can't say I'm the happy go lucky, any beach, any time kind of person. Since I grew up with plenty of sunshine and a backyard of silky sands I have a certain expectation. Some beaches just don't add up because there are too many people or the beach is too polluted or perhaps nice for a hike but not quite what I had in mind or frankly they are just too stupid for words. That said Summer finally came into my life for a little while. The man and I packed up and headed east. Each day I have been fortunate to take a yoga class (on the beach) from two wonderful teachers with extraordinarily open heart chalkras. This has been a blessing and desperately needed medicine.

It's been a tough Summer and I haven't been feeling any joy or lightness. My nerves have been a wreck and I've felt trapped by a black cloud of confinement. I'm not so sure about doing another Summer like this one. Actually I can defiantly say I'll be making alternative choices in the future.

This week I have been playing outside, out of cell reception to everything and enjoying my time tremendously.

So three cheers for sun salutations on the beach and feeling the joy!

Somewhere over the Rainbow

This Summer has been unexpectedly quite stressful. I find myself trying to get a mental foothold but without success. Each time I grasp for something to anchor myself another storm blows me off center. My life, my routine, my hopes my dreams are all unavailable to me at this time. Things I have come to count on to bring stability and footing into my daily life are barely present. This is a trying time. There is a reason for everything, and all things revel themselves accordingly. For now I hope to stay calm and perhaps spy a rainbow down the road.

Namaste and peace to you.

Yoga Y Movie

I recently watched Y Yoga Movie a documentary by Filmmaker Arthur Klein. He searches for meaning and philosophy in yoga following the aftermath of September 11th. Klein traveled the world to explore yoga's affect and possible relief. Chicken soup for the soul and body exploration. "From a charter school in South Central Los Angeles to wrestler Diamond Dallas Page's yoga class for American soldiers in Iraq, Klein reveals how this ancient practice continues to bring harmony to the world." It was well worth watching, a peaceful way to spend an hour and a half.

Live peacefully and with love.

The itty bity shitty committee will not rule my life

Judging me positively or negatively, puts me in a box.

Labeling me as bad or beautiful is a judgment that makes it harder for me to change in your eyes. Today practice your yoga by telling others what they did or said that enriched your life instead of how you have defined them.

A year of living your yoga by Jusith Hanson Lasater

I have elected not to travel this Summer and perhaps I'm paying the price or perhaps the universe just wants me to deal with some issues that have long sat on the shelf. It seems at every turn there is a challenge with lots of negative energy, viewpoints I don't value and people I will never embrace. lately, I have had more than my share of folks surround me with their negative vibrations. When trapped in a negative stream of energy it can be quite painful for me to engage fully in (life) chest openers, as I am repulsed by what surrounds me and simply want to shut down. I feel at this moment, in this small pocket in time, chest openers are exactly what I need to be doing. I need to open up to my own feelings of love and happiness and let other work out their miserable existence on their own. Absorbing others negative energy is toxic and detrimental both physically and emotionally.

I would like to give just a small piece of advice to a small group of people I have limited contact with this Summer. Hope your out there, here goes; One may be quite negative without having ever said a direct negative word to anyone. Its the crappy attitude, the complaints from A-Z, the never ending scowl or lack of civil affect, no eye contact and the gossip behind others backs. In reality your silent actions are not decent and the feelings you emit are toxic. I pray you win a billion dollars so that you go away and I never have to feel your presence again. In the meantime I will be content and say my gratitude each day that I only have a few more weeks of you in my life. I will continue to work on keeping a strong heart and cover myself in a protective cloth of white light. I thank you for the opportunity to point out how blessed I am with the lovely people in my personal and professional life. I hope you get your act together someday, if not for your sake then everyone else.

Namaste

My own private Idaho

When I was a child I used to go to the this beach.  I still feel much love for this beach, for me it was cypress trees on a sandy beach. The perfect place to just sit and contemplate anything or everything. When engaged in yoga, feelings can rise up in our bodies which are powerful and consuming. I think its best to move through the feelings, allowing them to surface and then release. It can be a similar experience when we find a pleasing and comfortable place to sit and relax. A safe place to feel and let go. Someplace personal and unique to quietly allow feelings to rise up in our body then release. I like to remain till I feel ready to move on. For me this is an important piece of the practice of living and retaining good mental health. There are many ways to maintain good mental health, this is just one exercise. I fully intend to find my own personal place for meditation and retreat as absolutely soon as I can manage. For now, I have been FULLY engaged in the process of home gentrification and simultaneous construction. I have family coming to stay this week, so I have spent the past three weeks engaged in house beautiful projects. The really great aspect of this is after the visit, the lions share of stuff I will have needed to do will be done, giving me time to find my cypress tree.

May you find yours as well,

Miss.S.

Care a little about somebody other than yourself

This past weekend was packed with lots of sun, outdoor time and socializing. It was a wonderful holiday weekend. I haven't been in the States for a national holiday in some time and many years since I celebrated the 4rth at home. It felt good to be festive and celebrate something uniquely American in the country instead of out. Sunday we took an excellent hike in the woods. The weather could not have been better and we were feeling quite jovial and expansive when we stumbled across a huge stockpile of used fireworks. In the middle of this fiasco was an empty liqueur bottle.

We just stood and stared. Is this 1976? WTF? Whoever decided to light off fireworks in these woods managed to get everything in, but couldn't figure a way to carry it out. It was ugly, stupid and a realization of how far we haven't come since the Keep America Beautiful commercials in the 70's. Uuh....

Happy Birthday America, God Bless and Good Luck.

Vitality Through Veggies

I have been reading This Crazy Vegan Life by Christina Pirello. I first discovered Christina through her cooking show on public television. Christina Cooks was on at four in the afternoon on weekdays. I would dash home and stare fascinated by what this woman was doing......suggesting. I would sit completely enthralled, but also totally overwhelmed. This was way more than I had ever ventured to do!   My introduction to a vegetarian lifestyle came when I moved into a non meat eating household and later through Neal Barnard's food for life. My housemates were all practicing at different levels, some were eating junk cereal all day and only one was cooking.  She relocated to San Francisco shortly after I moved in but by the time I moved out, vegetarianism had kind of stuck and I moved on to fuller cooking and a vegan approach. That's when I  discovered Food for Life, I cooked up a storm from that book. I have always enjoy the kitchen and I cook a great deal.  By the time I discovered Christina Cooks I was preparing all my meals from my own kitchen and felt I had seen and done it all, but she introduced new concepts and I realized I had never eaten so clean or consciously. Christina talked about sustainable living, buying organic and local, and living green. With time, my schedule became over crowded and my life unbalanced.  Eventually I lapsed back into red meat and other sundry.  As yoga grew into a larger part of my life, vegetarianism has ebbed back in. This time around things are very different.  It's not an all or nothing venture and I am no longer cooking for one. In order to make this work I need a balance and there lies the challenge . The past four days I have been cooking vast meals from her book. I have been unable to get past the first two days of recipes although I have cooked large meals every day for the past week! Unfortunately I do not have the time to shop and cook at this level every day. We are all feeling energetic and healthier and I fully intend to keep moving in this direction but at a realistic pace for my lifestyle.  I'll cook a bit, freeze a bit, store a bit and concentrate on dinner. I can't do it all, I can't even do half, but I can do something and that's enough for now.

Good health and happy cooking everyone!

June 30, 2009

The June 30th advice for a year in living your yoga states Chocolate is one of the sacraments.
Being truly alive to our sensations is to be truly alive to life. Sit in a quiet place and take a bite of your favorite chocolate. Hold it in your tongue: let it melt slightly. Taste it fully. Enjoy the smell. It is not the chocolate that is the practice; it is the ability to be fully alive to each moment. Cultivate this practice today.

Very nice, very nice.....

Heart of Change

lately I have been saying to myself, " Be the change. Be the change" I walk my dogs, go about my day, grocery shop, write reports, go to meetings , pay the bills and I tell myself over and over" be the change... be the change." There is something internal going on inside of me. Something profound that I am at this point unable to articulate yet feel in every fiber of my being. So Friday I am in yoga class, burning off my karma and opening up my heart chalkra and my teacher Jenna says,

"If you wanna make the
world a better place
take a look at yourself and
then make the change."

ahh.... thank you girl, that was perfect and to you Mr. Jackson, I really didn't know you very well but I am very sorry things were so terribly painful for you. I hope the next time is much better. Thank you for the message, I'll take it to heart.

Sweetness

Goblin Market

Morning and evening

Maids heard the goblins cry:

"Come buy our orchard fruits,

Come buy, come buy:

Apples and quinces,

Lemons and oranges,

Plump unpeck'd cherries,

Melons and raspberries,

Bloom-down-cheek'd peaches,

Swart-headed mulberries,

Wild free-born cranberries,

Crab-apples, dewberries,

Pine-apples, blackberries,

Apricots, strawberries; -

All ripe together

In summer weather...

Christina Rosetti

The Finish Line

I don't need to win, I just need to cross it. One more week, one more slightly insane seven days with a lot of small finish lines in between. Keep breathing, stay cool, concentrate and then I'm FREE!

In the coming months I'll be checking out some interesting yoga teachers and sharing my impressions. Exploring This Crazy Vegan Life with Christine Pirello, adjusting to the new and exciting changes in my ever changing life, and studying for my qualifying exam.

OK! Yeah! Lets do it!

Have a good, good feeling week everyone.

I can do it!

It's a bit like this for a while. lots of meetings, paperwork, construction on the house ,massive changes in the personal life and a cracked car window. Looking forward to breathing in a green Summer with lots of yoga. See you soon !
Miss. S.

Balance

"Our life is frittered away by detail... simplify, simplify."

Henry David Thoreau

Guruji Sri K Pattabhi Jois

Guruji Sri K Pattabhi Jois

1915-2009

With deep respect I bow my head to the founder of Ashtanga Yoga. My sympathy and love go out to his family and many students. Thank you Pattabhi Jois for your outstanding contribution to humanity.

"Do your practice and all is coming."
Pattabhi Jois, originator of Ashtanga Yoga

Repose

There's a lot going on in my life and a lot to accomplish in a short period of time. This time of year has always been hectic for me and this year is no exception. With so much to do it can be overwhelming. I suspect I am not alone in feeling the tidal wave of obligation and time constraint. Everyone has a different coping mechanism and lets be honest, most are pretty ineffectual. I personally run about trying to multitask as fast as I can and by the end of the day I am completely fried. Pushing myself to do more is a bit like moving a stone wall with a feather. It's just not going to work. To add to my frustration my overfilled mind becomes fuzzy and forgetful which results in disorganization and panic. This time around I've decided to try something new. I'm going to slow down and release control of the urge to get it all done immediately and to my (at times) unrealistic standard. Focus and clarity are needed, not a frazzled, fried, over panicked lady. It's time to take on my many tasks one at a time, and focus on getting one thing done at a time. It's also time to throw out guilt about not doing more at night. Just go to bed, get a good nights sleep and begin again tomorrow. Focus, breath, rest and move at a slower pace thats my plan for doing more in May.

Sunday Morning

Poem From A Beautiful Day
Open.

Wide, far, so high

And deep - I know it is.

Filled with Free,

Glad with Real.

Blue.

Sunshine, breeze, so warm

And meaningful - I know it is.

Satisfied with Relaxing,

Delighting with Fresh.

Life.

Glimpse of Heaven

Realization of Love.

Beautiful.

Zoe MacRae

Sun Salutation Mantra

During each class this past summer we would chant this Suryanamaskara mantra before each sun salutation. We did a lot of sun salutations and this gave a little rest and a reminder to take a breath. It's quite lovely and fun to chant.

Om Rham Mitraya Namaha
Salute to the friend of all
Om Rhim Ravaya Namaha
To the Shinning one
Om Rhum Suryaya Namaha
To the one who induces activity
Om Rhaim Bhanave Namaha
To the one who illuminates
Om Rhoum Khagaya Namaha
To one who pushes quickly to the sky
Om Rhah Pushne Namaha
To the imparter of strength
Om Rham Hiranyagarghya Namah
To the golden cosmic self
Oh Rhim Mirichaye Namaha
To the lord of the dawn
Om Rhum Adityaya Namaha
To the lord of creations
Om Rhaim Savitre Namaha
To the one who is fit to be praised
Oh Rham Bhaskaraya Namaha
To the one who leads to enlightenment

Om Shri Savitre Suryanarayanaya Namaha
Oh Rham Rhim Rhum Rhaim Rhoum Rhay
Mitra Ravi Surya Bhanu Khaga Pushan Hiranyagarbha
Marichi Aditya Savitru Arku Bhaskarebhyo Namo Namhaa

Hari Om everyone.

May 1, 2009

Happy May Day!

Japa

For forty days total I will be doing a japa. A japa is a meditative repetition of a mantra or name of God. The mantra or name may be spoken softly, enough for the practitioner to hear it, or it may be spoken purely within the mind. Japa may be performed while sitting in a meditation posture, while performing other activities, or as part of formal worship in group settings. The repetitions are counted using a string of beads known as a japa mala. The japa is best performed for forty days, 108 times at each session.

The particular mantra I will chant is one commonly used to remove obstacles standing in the way of your progress. I began this mantra two days ago with members of my YTT group. We will each perform our japa at 9:30 each evening. It is my sincere hope this helps bring release and easy passage to our YTT brother.

Om Gum Ganapatayei Namaha

(ohm goom gana-pa-tie-ay na-ma-ha)

Today

It's ironic that I have looked forward to this day for many, many months. On a personal and professional level I have had this date etched in my calender with happy anticipation. Life had other plans and I find myself in an unexpected place, standing in disbelief. Rather than embrace return, I must celebrate a life once lived and now over. The hottest day of the year, fire blazing hot. Another irony, did he plan it this way?

I'm going to repeat a poem I have already placed on my blog. Please know its about you and me and everyone we know, and everyone we will never encounter.

You

You may not think the world needs you,

but it does.

For you are unique, like no one that has ever come before or will come after.

No one can speak your voice,

say your piece, smile your smile or shine your light.

No one can take your place, for it is yours alone to fill.

If you are not there to shine your light,

who knows how many travelers will lose their way

as they try to pass by your empty place in the darkness.

Anonymous

Brothers and Sisters be at peace and love yourself.........

Gabe

Gabriel Feld

July 20, 1985- April 24, 2009

Be well dear man and know that you are loved.

You are loved. You have always been loved and you always will be.

Dear sweet fellow yogi, as Priti told us that fateful first day,

we came together for a purpose

its karma

and it is good.

In your own words to me

shine bright and be a beacon of peace.

Until the next time

but oh I will miss you so.....

jai bhagwan baby

Musing

Virginia in Spring
Damn those roses—
They’re gossiping again,
Vain old ladies in their red hats!
Look at that ring of thorns—some necklace!
Their chatter fills the leaves of the pear tree,
Riling the mocking-bird,
Scolding the yucca,
Shaking down pear-blossoms.
Jack Peachum

Meditation

Today was a stunning day. Beautiful, warm with that feeling of knowing you could finally peel off your long worn winter clothes and venture out without a coat or even a sweater. It was a glorious day for a hike and off we went with the addition of my best friends dog Katie. Everyone was in good spirits and a short hike turned longer while we drifted in the sunshine. We came across a lovely pond and spied a family of turtles sunbathing on a rock. It was quiet and peaceful and inexplicably we slowed down by the edge of the pond and one by one sat down loosing ourselves in silence and peace while gazing....just gazing at this little family enjoying the sunshine on this lovely Spring day.

jai bhagwan and peace to all,

Miss.S

Akash Mudra

According to the Tatav Yog Mudra Vigyan, the five fingers represent the five elements, and the middle finger represents akash, the space or sky element. Akash enables sound and thought to travel. This happens through the placement of the fingers and has an effect on the two hemispheres of the brain. by centering your energies and assisting information to flow through both hemispheres of the brain. When used with a tongue placement is has a positive effects on the limbic system. The beneficial effects include an energy charge helpful in developing noble and elevated thoughts and reducing feelings of annoyance. It strengthens the bones, is helpful in heart disease, and is said to be a cure for toothache and reduces ear pain by relieving congestion. For those of us looking to drop a few extra pounds and add a little lost energy from long cold snowy days and heavy evening meals this mudra can be quite helpful as it detoxifies the body by the elimination of metabolic wastes (through exhaled air, sweat, urine and stools), helps overcome a feeling of fullness/heaviness in the body or body-parts, and is helpful in overcoming discomfort caused by over-eating

Akash mudra is best practiced 45 minutes every day, either at one stretch or in three parts(i.e for 15 minutes, three times a day) If this is not possible practice when in a reclined asana for as long as you can. The ideal time is between 2:00 to 6:00 am/pm although you can practice at any time of the day. Do not practice this mudra while walking or if you have a hyper thyroid.

To form the Akash mudra join the thumb and middle finger. The index, ring, and pinky fingers are extended. The tongue placement can be added by placing the tip of the tongue to the upper roof of the mouth.

Be well and a happy and healthy practice to all.

Life..... Green and Beautiful

April 22, 2009 is Earth Day. This day was created to increase awareness, and appreciation of our planet and the environmental issues we all face. Senator Gay lord Nelson, the originator began the first earth day by holding a "teach in" on April 22, 1970 to increase awareness of overpopulation and its effects on the planet. Over 20 million people participated. According to the Earth Day network, the April 22 observance is the largest secular holiday in the world, celebrated by more than a half billion people in 175 countries.

I would like to suggest five great activities anyone can do to celebrate this wonderful planet we all live in. These activities take little to no money and can be done in Paris France, Bute Montana or Tilwadi India and all can be wheelchair modified.

Go outside and have a walk, focus on breathing fully.

plant something , it's good for your brain.

(no space, plant something in a pot in your apartment)

Make your yoga green.

If you haven't already make a commitment to recycle.

practice a few sun salutations outside.

Be well and have a wonderful day!

Miss. S

Book Review

The Yoga Teacher by Alexander Gray is a novel about mid life change, coping with loss and coming to terms with the reality of life. We are introduced to Grace, a successful professional in the pharmaceutical industry. Although her external life is stable, her internal life is filled with grief and mourning. A widow, she has little in the way of human companionship. Her life is empty and the few people who occupy her time are empty as well. The only place she feels filled and comfort is the inside of a yoga studio. Through self reflection and honest appraisal she makes a dramatic decision to quit her job, obtain a teacher training certificate and become a yoga teacher. Through her journey we see Grace begin to fill internally. The shift is subtle, and the writer manages to convey this which is clever genius. The yoga teacher has a somber tone, which can be an accurate reflection for many who take on a new life. Although I enjoyed this read I was conflicted. Her emotional journey was realistic enough, but the flawless transition to financially independent yoga teacher was wholly unbelievable and disappointing. In all fairness the author was a yoga teacher herself and did have some rather high end clients. I suppose she tapped into her personal experience but its really not the norm for most of us. Placing that aspect of the story aside it was a good read especially on a rainy Spring day.