Spoiled Yogi

My Thoughts on the Recent Yoga Hubbub

2012-01-25T17:33:00.000-08:00

I've been keeping to myself lately, so I haven't weighted in on all sorts of interesting yoga news. Most everything has been said already.. but here's an abridged version of my two-cents on the biggest yoga stories to break in the last few weeks.

1. Yoga can wreck your body. No shit! That's why teachers are so careful to tell you to bend your front knee at a 90 degree angle in standing poses, get the guidance of an experienced teacher before you try an advanced pose like Headstand, and never EVER move your head when you're practicing Shoulderstand. Why are people acting like this is a breaking news story? I'm tired of reading about it. Stop. Please.

2. Companies use sexy yoga models to sell stuff. Yes.. And this is different from companies using sexy non-yoga models to sell things how? I just don't see why this is a big deal. BTW, I know the point of this spoof video (below) was that yoga actually is NOT sexy. But in fact, I think it's way sexier than the first video. It's a dude... doing yoga.. and being funny at the same time. It wouldn't make me buy anything, but I still think it's pretty sexy.

3. T-Rex hates Chaturanga. T-Rex, T-Rex, T-Rex... Didn't your teacher tell you that the poses you hate most are the ones you need to practice the most!? Try using a tower of blocks under your little hands (paws? claws?) Poses were meant to be modified after all. Or maybe just start with Plank.. and work your way up to Chaturanga. I think you'll get there.

YogaDawg.blogspot.com

The Yoga of House Hunting

2012-01-22T17:48:00.000-08:00

Finding a new place to call home is a strange and wonderful task--especially when you're looking for a home that you'll be able to call home indefinitely.

Like yoga, house hunting is a practice of self exploration.

Through a long and tedious process of looking into other people's homes, you discover what's most important to you in life. Are you more worried about having the best flooring and appliances, having great outdoor space, or being close to town? Are aesthetics more important or functionality? Are you the kind of person loves a project or would you rather have exactly what you wanted from the get-go? If you examine it closely, it can give you some profound insight into the person you are and the life you live.

House hunting is also about balance. You have to balance the perception of who you think you are with who you want to be in life, and how you want others to perceive you. Do you want to be one of those people who pay much more for a home just so you can say live in a particular neighborhood--the upwardly-mobile neighborhood, the artsy-fartsy neighborhood, or the hipster neighborhood--or are you OK with less prestige?

You compromise on some things to set yourself up for the life you want.

It took my husband and I almost a year to find the house we finally (FINALLY!) moved into a month and a half ago. We're not in a posh neighborhood near a yoga studio (drat!), but we have hardwood floors (so I can happily unroll my mat in any room in the house!), a fenced in backyard where our doggy can run like the wind, and a kitchen that makes me so happy to prepare food it's OK that our dining out budget has been drastically reduced.

After living in cramped apartments for last decade, I feel incredibly blessed to have a house that with a little elbow grease (and a TON of paint) we can make our own! But I feel even more lucky for the lessons that I've learned along the way. I'm sure there will be many, MANY more. :)

Where Have I Been!?

2012-01-21T05:07:00.000-08:00

When I started this blog, I had one mission: To inspire people who read it to incorporate yoga into their lives. But a few months ago, I stopped feeling inspirational. There were bad things happening all around me. It felt like my world was collapsing.

Nobody wants to read about that shit.

So I put Spoiled Yogi and my online social life on the back burner, and I started looking for inspiration. I tried new, more spiritually-based styles of yoga. I meditated. I read books. I made an attempt to spend more time with friends. I took more baths. I ate more vegetables. I went to all the appointments I'd been putting off.
I took care of myself.

I'm happy to report that I'm feeling a lot better these days. And there have been plenty of wonderful things to balance out the bad that's happened. I bought a house! I made a baby (ETA April 20!)! I got an iPad!

There are so many things to catch you up on. In between my full-time job, getting ready for baby, painting the rooms in our house (OK, providing moral support for the painting), my fulfilling and gratifying freelance work, and continuing to make time for myself and my practice, I think I can start blogging a little more.

There are a lot of great nuggets of inspiration in my life again, and I can't wait to share them all with you. I've missed you!!

How to Choose a Yoga Mat + Manduka Giveaway

2012-01-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

I've finally succumbed to the realization that my beloved yoga mat is no longer meeting my needs. The giant hole that made me so proud when I unrolled the mat at studios--it represents 6 years of daily practice!--was becoming a little bigger with every practice. Bits of purple rubber flaked off everywhere and stuck to my hands and feet. I found myself having to stop what I was doing to wipe off excess pieces of mat.

When your mat is becoming more of a distraction and a hindrance to your practice than a useful tool, it's time to move on. If I've learned nothing else from my yoga practice, it's how to let go of the things that are no longer serving it. It is time for a new mat.

Now, I'm kind of a yoga products whore. I love mats, props, clothes, books, magazines--anything that reinforces my dedication and love for this practice. That said, I take the task of choosing a new yoga mat seriously. A yoga student's relationship to her mat is surprisingly intimate--not only does she rely on it to provide support and keep her safe, there's a lot of energy moving around during a yoga session and a mat collects that energy.

What do I look for in a mat?

Good karma. I want to do as little harm as possible as I can to the world.
Durability. My last mat lasted me 6 years, which is a great run. I want my next mat to last even longer than that!
Thick and cushiony. I'm bony, so I want a mat that will be kind to my knees, wrists, ankles, and other bony parts when they're connecting with the ground.
Grippy (Not Slippery When Wet). Yoga turns me into a sweaty mess. I need a mat that will
Personality. Choosing a mat color is kind of a big commitment if you plan to use your mat every day for the next 10 years. I wanted a soothing color with some personality, too.

The kind folks at Manduka must have known it was time for a new mat. They were kind enough to send me an eKo mat to try out--they have several new colors Azure, Smokey Quartz, Sage, Maize, Amore, Dublin. Poseidon, Sienna and Thunder and they all fit my criteria to a tee.

HOW TO WIN
It's easy. Now that I have a new mat, I need some advice for what to do with my old one. Comment below and tell me the most creative way you've reused an old yoga mat. I'll choose the winner based on creativity and usefulness. I'll announce the winner here next Monday, January 9th and you'll have until the following week to email me to claim your prize. Sound good?

AND THE WINNER IS...
Thanks for all your great advice! So many great ideas here!

Steph R! Congratulations!

Email me at spoiledyogi@gmail.com with your full name and address and I'll get a mat sent out to you!!

Happy Howl-o-ween!

2011-10-31T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well, happy is a relative term, I suppose...

Home Practice

2011-09-18T18:10:00.000-07:00

I asked my friends on Twitter how they motivate themselves to practice at home when they're in a rut. Their answers were so insightful and helpful, I wanted to share them with you.

Frenzy36

@spoiledyogi re home practice: schedule it like you would an appointment. I also have 10 diff playlists ready to stay fresh, plan asanas b4

Parisonista

@spoiledyogi Set goals! Something that can be measured, maybe a particular pose you are striving for & work on it X times per week.

Tulaflow

@spoiledyogi keep it simple and see what unfolds. allow yourself to be playful and work on specific poses. when in doubt, ashtanga. :o)

Alignment_Yoga

@spoiledyogi I value just showing up and responding to how I *really* feel with the postures. That's how I stay connected to home practice.

donnersup

@spoiledyogi Home practice allows you to practice what you need. It's addicting.

jaxx14

@spoiledyogi it helps to invite someone over to practice w you. My sister-in-law and I have a standing date every Thursday night #yoga

larahkennedy

@spoiledyogi I'm having trouble with this atm, so pls share the responses :) Music always helps me when I don't feel motivated to practice.

MeganMarks13

@spoiledyogi To stay motivated I remind myself how good I will feel after I practice. Hope that helps :)

All such great advice! Do you have any to add?

From the Ground Up: Tadasana

2011-08-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Image: Iyogalife.com

My feet press strongly into the ground. Balls? Check! Heels? Check! Outside edges? Check! I try to feel my arches lift--as if to suck that grounding, stable energy of the earth up like I would suck the last drops of lemonade out of the bottom of a glass through a straw. My toes lift and spread.

Planting my feet firmly into the ground lifts the crown of my head just a little closer to the sky. For just a moment, I feel tall... regal... powerful!

I firm my calves, then my thighs. My femur bones spiral in just slightly, but at the same time press away from each other. I feel my bones stack.

I lengthen my tailbone toward the floor and firm my belly.

My chest lifts toward the sky as my shoulder blades descend.

I feel that same energy that I draw from the ground shine out through the top of my head and extend through my fingertips, pointing toward the floor.

But after a few moments of pulling and pushing, firming and gripping, aligning and realigning something almost magical happens: A softening--not of the muscles, but of the mind.

This is my experience of Tadasana.

Review: Writing Yoga

2011-08-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

There are two things in life that I can count on to make me feel uplifted, positive about life, and (dare I say) joyful: My yoga practice and writing about my yoga practice.

It's not surprising, then, that I devoured Writing Yoga: A Guide to Keeping a Practice Journal by Bruce Black. In this gem, published earlier this year by Rodmell Press, I discovered chapter after chapter of inspiring ideas for expressing my yoga through writing.

I could also relate to Black's stories about his own yoga practice, and how writing down his experiences before and after he unrolled his mat changed the way he thought about his practice. I've had similar experiences through this blog. Writing adds a whole other contemplative level to an already very contemplative practice. I'm a firm believer that when I sit down and actually put my experiences onto paper (or computer screen as the case may be) I gain a new perspective on things. Yoga practice in no exception.

If you haven't already read through Writing Yoga, I encourage you to grab a copy and let Black be your guide as you explore what beautiful, complex emotions you can uncover through writing about your yoga practice.

Fancy Pants

2011-08-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

There are lots of great new clothing lines for Fall this year, but on my most coveted list are two pair of pants that I think are incredibly innovative.

I'm really impressed with Lululemon's new Acro Crop. It's such a great idea to put a little sticky silicon paint on the pant legs to give you some extra traction in arm balances and balance poses like Vrksasana (Tree Pose) that is, if you practice with the lifted foot below the knee, anyway! Admittedly, I haven't seen these in person, but from what I can tell they're pretty neat. That said... I have one major concern about these nifty pants: If you manage to get your leg behind your head while you're wearing these, will you be more likely to get stuck?

I'm also really into the Knee Pad Yoga Capri by Fila. Sometimes my knees get sore from those Pigeon Pose variations and Camel Pose. My solution has always been to fold the edge of my mat over to give me some extra padding... I think it's genius that someone decided to put discreet pads in yoga pants so the padding is built in! I haven't seen these in person yet, either, so I can't tell if they look totally dorky or not.. but the pictures look sleek.

Have any of you tried either of these pants? Did you love them? I'd love to hear your reviews!

Inspiration Station

2011-08-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

In this somewhat fuzzy picture of my desk at work.. you will see several things that inspire me beyond belief and get me through my work day.

The highlights are:

- A woman with grey hair on a surfboard... because if I'm half that cool when my hair is all grey, I will consider this a life well lived.
- A card that a coworker from a past job gave me that says "Tolerance". I think she was trying to tell me something.
- Cute shoes. For without a regular paycheck I could not afford life's simple luxuries.
- An illustration of Parvati, my favorite Indian goddess. She's the epitome of girl power, but in a totally soft, approachable way.
- A picture of a mala to remind me of my meditation practice.
- A cute kitten. So. Freakin. FUZZY! I just want to squeeze it! Oh yeah. It also reminds me to be gentle and kind and stuff.... and that I like kitties.. and doggies!
- Om.

Do you have an inspiration board? What's on yours?

So Hum: For Those Moments When Your Coworkers Are Jerks

2011-08-09T18:15:00.000-07:00


Model: Abbie Dutterer; Photography: Faern

"As I’ve become more devoted to my practice, I have tried to bring more of “my mat” into my workplace. I hope that what I am trying to cultivate in terms of calmness, curiosity, and peace in my life – both at work and at home – adds something to the people around me." – Abbie

I SO relate to Abbie!

It's easy to focus on the present moment when you're in the middle of your asana practice, but what really matters is if you pay attention to your breath in a moment when you're late for a deadline…. Or in the middle of an argument with a loved one … Or having one of those days when nothing seems to go the way you think it should.

I have a particularly difficult time remembering my yoga practice when I'm at the office. This is why I have to have reminders everywhere!

Surround yourself with inspiration. I have an inspiration board up on my cubicle wall with quotes, notes from friends, and pictures. When you're surrounded by things that inspire you, it uplifts everything you do.

Find ways to incorporate yoga clothing into your work wardrobe. I wear a mala to work nearly every day. I also wear yoga tops in the place of camisoles. That way even though I am conforming to my office culture and look "professional" I have little reminders of my practice even when I'm in meetings away from my desk. (And it makes changing for yoga after work a breeze!)

Take stretch breaks often. There are lots of poses you can do right in your desk chair. My favorite desk stretches are seated twists (using the arm rests for extra traction), Cow Face Pose, and--when no one is looking--seated Cat-Cows and Tolasana from my desk chair!

Listen to kirtan. I love listening to music while I work, but songs with lyrics are distracting when you work with words. Kirtan is soothing and reminds me of my yoga practice, and the fact that I don't understand the words is a bonus because I can just enjoy the vibrations.

Take a deep breath every time you get a phone call or email. This is my trick to manage stress and communicate mindfully.

Most of all … in those moments that you want to grab your boss by the neck and shake some sense into her, remember that yoga teaches us that we're all one and she deserves to be treated with compassion and understanding as much as anyone else… especially when she's a giant pain the ass. We're all just doing the best we know how to do for ourselves, our families, and our careers.

Read the rest of Abbie's interview here.

Faern is an artist, yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Besides making as much time for tea as possible, you can find Faern in a yoga class, at her current art show or wandering the city via public transportation. You can visit her in various places online: FaernWorks website, Twitter, Facebook, Faern in the Works Blog.

Spoiled Yogi Interviews Kristin McGee

2011-08-08T17:54:00.000-07:00

Tell us about your favorite yoga outfit. What do you love about it?

My all time favorite yoga outfit is the copper ring supplex cami tank and supplex straight leg capri by FILA. The fabric is so comfortable; yet still supportive. The tanks always come out in beautiful colors (I have one in each!) and I love wearing them on air for when I work at HSN. They are feminine and classic and they still do the job when I'm exercising. The black capri pants make my legs look good and are the perfect length for me in my yoga and Pilates class. They are just the best staple pant to have.

You're not just a yoga teacher--you're also a Pilates and fitness instructor. How does Pilates fit in with your yoga practice? Does one inform the other?

I certified to teach Pilates after teaching yoga for a while at the gyms and health clubs--where they kept asking me to sub Pilates classes (not knowing the difference!). I started taking classes and fell in love with Pilates, it as a great compliment to my yoga practice. I really like teaching both disciplines. They are different in many ways so it is good cross training for my body and my students. I find concentrating on my core and powerhouse in Pilates reminds me to keep it strong when practicing yoga. Sometimes doing ab work in Pilates I forget to breath so using my yoga breath and flow when I'm teaching Pilates helps me not get too rigid. The flexibility and mind/body connection from both methods is really great. I am a gym girl and I love all forms of exercise I think it's great to keep informing my yoga and Pilates with as much as I can.

What's your secret to keeping calm amidst all the chaos of city living, busy schedules, and never-ending to-do lists?

I just really try and give myself a chill day. Before I got married to my awesome husband, Tim, I'd often work Monday-Sunday it seems there is always something to do and I could see clients or teach classes all week long. I could also teach until 8 or 9pm then have a 6am the next day! Tim has really helped me slow down and take a day off on the weekends. We might go for a bike ride or to a museum or see a play or musical. Or we might take a hike or a day trips to the beach, botanical gardens, Central park, etc. I've also learned to be kinder to myself and not over do. I like waking up early and seeing my clients and doing my classes. But I realized that at night I'd rather be home with a good book or have a nice meal and glass of wine or see my friends and husband.

I am using the balance that we often refer to so much in yoga and incorporating it more in to my daily life. It is really important to find a nice rhythm between work and play, and yet it's an ongoing journey. There are times when I just have to put in my dues and have many projects going on, and I work my butt off. Then, I go out to Idaho and force myself to take a week off ,and be in the outdoors with my amazing family. I'm so lucky I have that outlet!

What's your favorite pose at the moment? What are you learning from it?

I think my favorite pose right now is Hanumanasana, splits. I've always loved headstand--I could do it right away and it feels awesome being upside down. I always hated the splits, I could never do them as a kid, I was super inflexible and it is one of those poses that I always felt so far from accomplishing. Yet, this summer while practicing Hanumanasana, I really decided to just relax and not worry about getting in to the full posture; and I'm actually finally able to feel really good on both sides. I've noticed the skill it takes to stay centered and not get too caught up in the front leg but to really sit back a little and open up the front of my back thigh. Now I'm able to melt down in to the floor and not freak out about shoving my front leg hamstring open and to the ground.

I've been practicing now for over 17 years, and my body is opening up now in places I thought I might never have the range of motion. It is a true testament to the practice to see that if you keep breathing and keep exploring the postures and your body and the alignment, you really can go further than you ever thought possible. Yoga isn't a sprint, it's a marathon.

Things change and move at glacier speed, not lightning speed. But that's great! Anything worth doing takes time and doing splits right now has helped me realize that patience and perseverance really do pay off.

Tell us what inspires you so we can be inspired, too?

Children inspire me. Seeing the little girls I teach or watching my little nephews play and explore and giggle and have fun and be curious about life, that is really touching. Old people inspire me as well, learning from their wisdom and experience of life. The mountains inspire me, I love being home in Idaho and skiing or hiking and just looking at the unbelievable expansive beauty of the mountain ranges. Rivers, oceans, lakes, streams, forests anything outdoors makes me happy and inspired.

My yoga and Pilates practice and really good yoga/Pilates classes and teachers inspire me. Great teachers of anything really inspire me--I love to learn. Music definitely, I can't imagine my life with out songs or singing. When I hear an awesome lyricist like James Taylor sing or hear my dad play the piano, or go to an incredible musical in NYC and can't stop tapping my feet--that is inspiring. Art, great novels, new inventions, traveling to new places, all inspirational.

The Big Apple--thus the reason I moved here, it's one big playground of inspiration. I can't walk down the street without being inspired every day. My students and clients inspire me and remind me to keep doing what I'm doing and to be the best teacher I can be and continue to come up with creative new ideas in my teaching and practice. I see them progress and stay consistent with their practice, and I feel so very grateful. My husband and family make me want to be a better person every day I'm alive, and they support and inspire me in new ways every day.

Visit Kristin's website www.kristinmcgee.com.

Steal From Your Teacher (And Other Good Advice That Sounds Bad)

2011-07-25T18:30:00.000-07:00

Steal from your teacher. No, I'm not talking about her credit card or that shiny new yoga mat... When I'm in a difficult situation--whether it's at work or in my daily job, I think about how my mentors would respond. I imagine what her words would be, her body language, I see her composed and cool ... My yoga teachers don't get flustered when they make a misspeak in front of a class. They laugh it off gracefully and move on. I want to be like that in my interactions with people. So I steal their persona for a bit (I can't call it borrowing because I can't give it back!). I say what I think they would say. I might even talk the way they would talk. I make it my own. It helps me through it, and don't think they'd mind.

Do the bare minimum. In our culture, we're taught to give 110% to everything we do. We work as hard as we possibly can. We always strive to do more. When we take this approach in yoga, we end up injured. When we take this approach in life, we end up burnt out, exhausted, and uninspired. I've noticed that working smart (not hard) is the way to get the most accomplished over a long period of time. And by saving energy, I'm able to accomplish more over the long run, be more creative, and am much happier as a whole.

Be selfish. I know.. the word selfish sounds so bad! We have the perception that when we take things for ourselves, it comes at the expense of someone else, but this isn't always true. If we don't take care of ourselves, how can we take care of anyone (or anything) else!? Take time for yourself. Do your daily yoga practice. Meditate. Eat foods that make you feel alive! Then, shine your light on the people around you.

How Fashion Changed My Life (Or at Least My Mornings)

2011-07-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

My love for fashion helped me develop a regular meditation practice. Yes, I said fashion!

I've taken amazing classes--and lots of them. I've studied with some of the best yoga and meditation teachers in the world. I've read countless books. I've blogged in an attempt to hold myself accountable. I think I ever made a chart at one point. Did any of this help me to develop a consistent and regular yoga practice? Nope! It would work for about a week.. then.. Poof! Something happened (I have no idea what) and I just couldn't do it anymore. It was my fashion obsession that changed everything for me.

I was in the habit of standing in my closet every morning for a good 10 minutes scratching my head. I have SO many choices, and yet, I would think to myself, "I have NOTHING to wear.. I hate ALL of my clothes." Often, I'd put one one outfit... decide it's not the right one and change several times before I actually made it out the door. All of this takes a ridiculous amount of time.

Ironically, even though I spent so much time getting ready in the mornings, I realized I still wear the same outfits over and over again. This is unacceptable for someone who loves clothes as much as I do. Determined to make better use my closet and dresser (both ridiculously full), one Sunday afternoon I decided to find five creative new outfits for the week. I tried everything on. I laid out every outfit--even the jewelry.

The following week, I was astonished by how much time this saved me in the morning. I felt fabulous in my newly-constructed wardrobe and ready for work with 15 minutes to spare.. So I thought, what the heck? I sat down to meditate. That was almost three months ago, and I haven't missed a day since.

Since I just happened into my meditation practice this time, I had no expectations and no worries. It wasn't forced--just a happy accident. This means I've been able to watch it all unfold organically, without judgment. I really am noticing a difference. I'm calmer, more connected, and yes, better dressed!

So Hum: Expressions of Unity

2011-07-15T18:48:00.000-07:00


Models: Jeremy Simon and Seren Rubens; Photography: Faern

"Yoga has taught me how to live in harmony with myself and those around me. Practicing challenging poses, especially in partnership, has helped me to find the path of resistance."

– Jeremy Simon

It's impossible for to look at this photo of AcroYogis Jeremy Simon and Seren Rubens without thinking about trust, partnership, and unity. It takes some real trust to let someone hold you upside down like that with your head that close near the pavement. One slip and… well, it would not be pretty.

This same sense of partnership and unity is one of the things I love most about being a part of the yoga community. It takes the effort of all involved to make the beautiful shapes we see Acro Yogis practice. If any one person doesn't fully commit, the whole could come crashing down like a delicate house of cards.

We support each other—literally and figuratively. Yoga philosophy teaches us to see the world in a holistic light. When you help a neighbor, you help yourself and the whole world as a result! We lean on each other when we need help with a pose, but we also lean on each other when we need advice or just a laugh. Each little action impacts the world in a positive or negative way. It's really beautiful if you think about it.

Does this mean that we never let someone down or get really REALLY annoyed by the person who Oms too loudly or makes every discussion about herself? Of course not. But just as no one gets Scorpion Pose on the first try, it takes years and years of practice to master the art of true community. I am the first to admit that I have a long, LONG way to go … but I'm learning about myself and the world along the way, breathing into the struggles, and enjoying it as much as I can as I go.

What do you love about yoga community? What do you struggle with? How has yoga changed the way you relate to people?

Read Jeremy's complete interview here and Seren's here!

Why Go to Yoga Class?

2011-07-09T14:16:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I went to a weekend workshop led by Jason Crandell, one of my long-time teachers. I had been feeling pretty bad about my yoga practice because (as I'm sure I've mentioned on this blog) I work nearly every minute of every day and I don't make it to yoga studios nearly as often as I'd like. In the workshop, Jason talked a lot about developing a personal practice and he mentioned that right now it just doesn't work for him to go to a yoga studio. He gets more out of practicing at home because it gives him the freedom to take his time and experiment with the things that he finds interesting and helpful, and he goes to a teacher a few times a year when he feels he needs to. It makes perfect sense.

Of course, it made me feel better about my practice to know that one of the yoga teachers I respect most in the world doesn't attend regular yoga classes. My home practice, no matter how irregular, at least gives me the opportunity to go inward, which is what the practice is all about. It's liberating to feel like when I go long stretches without setting foot in a studio, I don't have to feel guilty or disappointment with myself! This is what I love about yoga. It's good stuff.

But I will always love a good yoga class. I want to go to class when I can ... not because I need to or because I can't get what I need out of a home practice, but because it just feel right to me.

Here are 10 reasons I make every effort to go to yoga classes whenever I can ...

1. I like it.
2. I still have a TON to learn.
3. It inspires me--gets my creative juices flowing.
4. It's fun to meet new people, especially other yoga students!
5. I benefit from the positive energy of the collective group.
6. It makes me practice poses I know I'd never work on on my own.
7. Classes challenge me to hold poses longer, work a little harder, and push my limits. It's in classes that I'm capable of more than I ever thought possible.
8. A different perspective gives me new things to work on later.
9. Two words: Yoga Buzz.
10. Sometimes it's nice to let someone else guide you through the practice so you have to think less and really feel the present moment.

Why do you go to yoga classes?

When I Grow Up ..

2011-07-08T18:40:00.001-07:00

... I want to be like her.

108 Blessings: A List of Gratitude

2011-07-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a great week. I'm sick, worn out, and just feeling bad. Bad things are happening.

Tonight, I took the dog for a walk, and as my sweet Penny was playing with a neighbor puppy when one of my most prized possessions, a special set of mala beads from my friends at Tiny Devotions, snapped. Beads flew everywhere.

It was the last straw. I freaked out.. Is this a bad omen? Are there worse things to come?

It's times like these that it's important to remember all the things that are good about life. So I'm making a list.. 108 things that I'm grateful for (in honor of my mala). Alternatively, this could be a list of a few of my favorite things and what makes me feel alive.

1. My family
2. My friends
3. My furry friends
4. My home
5. My health
6. My yoga practice
7. The sunshine
8. Air conditioning
9. Plenty of food to eat
10. The beach
11. The ocean
12. My beach umbrella
13. Fluffy little clouds
14. Rainbows
15. Unicorns (I just like the idea of them.)
16. Ahhhhh-vocado
17. Blueberries
18. Watermelon
19. My nieces and nephews
20. My online community
21. The sweetest and most supportive husband in the world
22. My job
23. My creative outlets
24. This blog
25. My education
26. The many opportunities I've been given
27. My mentors
28. My teachers
29. Challenges that help me grow
30. That feeling right after a great yoga class
31. That adjustment... you know the one.. in Down Dog
32. My breath
33. Snuggling with furry friends
34. Making new furry friends at the park
35. Watching furry friends frolic
36. Frolicking
37. Cupcakes
38. Ice cream
39. Popsicles
40. Sweet tea
41. Porch swings
42. Wooden rocking chairs
43. The fact that I live somewhere that I might actually be able to own a house with a porch someday
44. The fact that I live in a nation that let's me choose where I live
45. My eye sight
46. Hearing
47. Taste buds
48. Flower buds
49. Music
50. Laughter
51. Bright colors
52. Cool breezes
53. Soft bedding
54. Feet that connect me to the earth
55. Technology that connects me to the world
56. A brain that allows me to understand and connect with others
57. The ability to communicate
58. A washer and dryer in my home!
59. My dishwasher
60. Running water
61. Flushing toilets
62. Litter boxes
63. Clean drinking water
64. Clothes on my back
65. Clothes that make me feel fabulous
66. Shoes... I love shoes.
67. Being bare foot
68. Swimming
69. Tire swings
70. Good memories
71. Funny stories
72. Inside jokes
73. Peace and quiet
74. A good night's sleep
75. Hammocks
76. Savasana
77. Child's Pose
78. Poses I hate (that make me appreciate the ones I like that much more!)
79. Arm balances
80. Inversions
81. Good books
82. Fancy cheese
83. Kale chips
84. Cat naps
85. Down Dogs
86. Coffee. Mmmm.. Coffee
87. Chocolate Croissants
88. Learning new things
89. Holidays with family
90. Christmas ornaments
91. Dangly earrings
92. Fun printed fabrics
93. Handbags
94. Pictures on the walls
95. My magazine collection
96. Walks in the park
97. Moonlight
98. Candle light
99. Being silly
100. Making people laugh
101. Helping people
102. Sharing yoga with people
103. Finding creative solutions to problems
104. Watching things grow
105. Playing in the sand, dirt, and/or water
106. Epiphanies
107. Looking on the bright side
108. Seeing beauty everywhere

Do you count your blessings? What would you add to the list?

Quality vs. Quantity

2011-07-01T18:55:00.000-07:00

This morning I sat down to meditate. I turned on the video I usually stream as a guide, closed my eyes. and took a deep breath.

Then, I tuned out my guide and my mind wandered through my daily to-do list, thought about what outfit I should wear for the day, and other random thoughts about life. The next thing I knew, I was being cued to open my eyes and start my day and my 10-minute meditation was over. Oopsy!

Now, I know it's normal for your mind to wander during meditation, but can you even call it meditating if you don't even have a few moments of mindfulness mixed in there somewhere?

I've been thinking a lot about quality vs. quantity lately--and meditating is just a part of the equation for me. I go back and forth on whether it's worth it to practice meditation, yoga, writing, and all the other things I am dedicated to for just a few minutes every day or if it would be better to practice it more fully and deeply a couple of times a week?

In the yoga community, the conventional wisdom is that if you practice just a few minutes a day it makes a huge impact. But, for me, it's nowhere near as satisfying as a nice 90 minute class at a studio.

Does anyone else struggle with this? I'd really rather have enough time to get a good thorough practice in every single day, but it's just not going to happen.

5 Things My Cat Taught Me About Yoga (Best of Spoiled Yogi)

2011-06-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

1. There's no shame in taking cat naps. Savasana can happen anytime, anywhere. If I took Savasana as frequently as my cat Gracey does, I'd be diagnosed with narcolepsy. But that doesn't mean I can't be inspired by her natural tendency to rest when she needs to. There's also no shame in resting in Child's Pose or skipping a Chaturanga or two during your yoga practice. It's a sign of wisdom.

2. Be patient. Gracey has a lot in common with advanced yoga postures. For example, they both come to me when they are good and ready--and not a moment sooner. The best thing I can do is have patience, let go of expectations, and when that sweet moment finally comes, be ready to delight in the purring.

3. Be persistent. When my cat gets a glimpse of a little red dot of light, created by my laser pointer, moving across the carpet, she chases it relentlessly. Even when the dot disappears, she will sometimes spend a very long time sniffing and pawing at the carpet looking for it. It's with that kind of determination, we should approach our practice. We know the peace we're seeking is there because we've seen it before. And if we keep working at it, we'll find it again!

4. Have faith. I could never be a pet. The concept of having complete trust in someone else to put your food out and provide you shelter and love is so foreign it's hard to imagine, but my kitty has no problem with that. She just trusts that her dinner will come. She doesn't have to know every detail about where it came from or what's coming next. She's just grateful to have another meal. In yoga, I might not always know when the next lesson is coming, but I trust that it will come when I need it.

5. Take care of yourself. You know what the best part about having a cat is? They clean themselves! I never have to chase Gracey around or think of clever ways to trick her into getting into the bathtub as I do with my dog. The yogic equivalent is when you have an injury, and you take the time understand it enough to explain it to your teacher, modify poses when you need to, or skip a pose altogether. (Of course, bathing yourself regularly is a good idea, too!)

What yogic lessons have you learned from your pets?

This was originally posted as part of my Top 5 Tuesdays blog at YogaJournal.com. Read more here.

5 Things My Dog Taught Me About Yoga (Best of Spoiled Yogi)

2011-06-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

1. Be present. Don't miss the opportunity to chase a squirrel because you're daydreaming about tomorrow's kibble. Likewise, don't miss out on the quality of your breath in a pose because you're worried about how you look, or what pose is coming next, or what's for dinner, etc.

2. Be curious, and when it doesn't work out - keep trying! I can't tell you how many times I've seen my little 15-pound dog, Penny, (that's her in the photo to the left) go up to a 70-pound lab, jump right up into his face, and lick his nose. Sometimes it goes well, and she instantly makes a new buddy. Other times? Well, let's just say some dogs don't want to be licked by a strange little dog. Either reaction does not phase my dog. She just waits for the barking to stop, and then tries again. This is how I try to approach my yoga practice--I never quite know how it's going to turn out, but I come to my mat with curiosity again and again.

3. Get your energy out. If my dog doesn't get enough exercise she wreaks havoc on my home. She chases the cat, chews my slippers, and barks like there's no tomorrow. So I take her for long walks or to the dog park as an outlet for her nervous energy. To manage my own anxieties, I go to my yoga mat. We're both a lot saner when we make time for ourselves--and the cat is a lot happier, too!

4. Don't force it. They don't call it Downward-Facing DOG for nothing! We yoga students could definitely learn a thing or two about stretching from our dogs. When my dog wakes up from a nap, she glides so effortlessly into Downward Dog it's like a dance. She sticks her tail in the air like it belongs there, but then it's over--that simple. What she doesn't do is analyze it to death and make a big fuss about it.

5. Play dead. OK, so my dog doesn't play dead on command, but she does know how to take Savasana like an old pro--and she doesn't need anyone'spermission. She listens to her own intuition and rests when she's tired. No guilt. No worries. Just bliss.

This was originally posted as part of my Top 5 Tuesdays blog at YogaJournal.com. Read more here.

Fearless

2011-06-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Despite the many insecurities I still struggle with, I've used to cope with my fear both on the mat and in life. Here are a few things that help me.

Just do it. (Nike got it right.) Remember the first time you kicked into Handstand? The fear of doing it can be debilitating, and whole lot worse than actually doing it. Rip the band-aid off fast and JUST DO IT.

Keep doing it. The more you practice anything, the less scary it seems. If you practice Handstand five times every day after a week or two, your hesitation will subside and you'll be able to kick up without even thinking about it.

Give yourself advice. Whenever I start to freak out about something, I think about what I'd tell a friend who was having the same problems. Most of the time my advice would be to take a deep breath and realize that it's not as big of a deal as it seems in the moment. (Then I think... Gosh, I'm a smart girl... wise beyond my years... )

How do you overcome your worst fears?

Fear and Loathing in ... Yoga?

2011-06-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

While I am physically capable of balancing in inversions like Handstand and Pincha Mayurasana in the middle of the room, you will most always find me inverting about six inches away from a wall. Why? Let me be frank: I'm terrified of falling over.

Fears of falling are very common in the yoga community. But you know what? That's not very interesting to me any more. It's the deeper fears that have been bubbling up for me that are really interesting.

Here are a few other things that are scaring the living daylights out of me right now.

1. Losing my way. I'm scared that I won't have the dedication or commitment or attention span to do this for the rest of my life. It sounds cliche, but before I started practicing yoga I was a different person... and I don't want to be that person again. I know how life can change nearly over night, and I hope that nothing ever changes that takes me away from my practice.

2. Injury. The practice of yoga has made me more mindful of the little creaks and tweaks in my body. But I'm pretty scared that I'll be injured in some way that inhibits my yoga practice. (See number 1.)

3. Finding a Teacher. I'm jealous of people who say "guruji" because I don't have one. To be honest, I don't know if I even want one. But how do I know if I want something I've never really experienced? I study with every teacher I can, and I know I can learn something from every one of them.. but I am scared I'm missing out by not having ONE teacher.

4. Being a Teacher. It's hard to admit this here (since I really REALLY do want to teach again some day) ... but .. I'm scared of leading others. I'm scared that I don't know enough and that someone who knows more than me will call my bluff. After a couple of bad yoga teaching auditions recently, I have less confidence in my teaching abilities than ever. Yoga has helped me build confidence better than anything else I've ever done in my life, but when it comes to teaching... I'm just not there yet.

5. Not Being Good Enough. When people find out that I'm a yoga enthusiast, they often assume I'm a vegan who gets up at 4 am everyday to meditate... I might aspire to this some day, but I have a LOOOONNG way to go. I might never get there, but I have to keep reminding myself that yoga isn't about some end result, it's a process.. and a big part of the process is having compassion and understanding for everyone--especially yourself. When you're used to being hard on yourself, that can be pretty scary, too.

Be honest. What REALLY scares you about this practice?

An Ode to Swimsuit Shopping

2011-06-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Shopping for swimwear today I am.
Oh yes, I am, dear store clerk ma'am.
But, alas, I do NOT like swim suit shopping plans.

I don't like looking short and small.
I don't like feeling big or tall.
I do not like it--especially at the mall.

I do not like it store clerk ma'am.
I just don't like it. It's not who I am.

This one's too skimpy.
That one looks like a dress.
This one is obviously for a woman with a very large chest.

I do not like it store clerk ma'am.
I just don't like it. It's not who I am.

Would you like it here or there?
Here, try it on over your underwear.

I do not like it store clerk ma'am.
I just don't like it. It's not who I am.

Would you like it for the beach?
Or maybe in the color peach?
Would you like it for a boat?
Or maybe on a floaty float?
Would you like this one with a tan?
Or maybe for your Uncle Sam?

I do not it like them on a beach.
I do not like the color peach.
I do not like them for a boat.
And certainly not on a floaty float.
I do not want to have a tan.
I do not like it for Uncle Sam.

I do not like it, store clerk ma'am.
These swim suits just aren't who I am.

So Hum: Express Yourself

2011-06-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

Model: Hydi
Photography: Faern

"Through yoga I have learned that I am exactly who I want to be, and as long as I keep it real nothing else can be expressed!" – Hydi

"Keeping it real" is a lesson that many of us have to be beaten over the head with… figuratively, of course (most of the time). After all, it's hard to really be you when you don't really understand who "you" is in the first place. I've found that yoga is an amazing tool for peeling back the layers of stuff to reveal more of the true "you."

After years of practicing yoga, one thing I've learned is that there really is no constant "me." Like a yoga pose that feels great one day and yucky the next, who I am is always evolving. There are no constants to identify with except for who I am in the moment. The past is just a memory – and who knows what the future holds? All we can do is to "keep it real" and express ourselves in the present.

That's exactly what Hydi is doing in the image above (read her interview here)—and that's exactly what the So-Hum photo blog project is all about!

5 Ways to "Keep it Real" with Yoga

1. Don't worry about what other people think. Do your own thing, experience the pose fully, and OWN it!
2. Never do anything that doesn't feel right in the moment in yoga class. Never EVER do anything that hurts. Modify your poses to work for your body, mind, and spirit.
3. Wear clothes that fit your body and your personality and make YOU feel great.
4. Embrace your strengths. Embrace your weaknesses even more—these are opportunities for learning. Never be ashamed of your flaws.
5. Never feel guilty. Never apologize. Never ask for permission. Just follow your intuition, breathe deeply, be mindful, and let life unfold.

What ways do you "keep it real" with yoga?

Faern is an Artist, yoga practitioner and Photographer in San Francisco. Besides making as much time for tea as possible, you can find Faern in a yoga class, at her current art show or wandering the city via public transportation. You can visit her in various places online: FaernWorks website, Twitter, Facebook, Faern in the Works Blog.

A Love Affair: Supta Padangusthasana

2011-06-11T08:05:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid to tell you this because I might jinx it ... but here goes...

I've been meditating again. Every day. In the mornings before work. This is something that has seemed like an impossible feat for me--someone who always wakes up a few minutes late, then rushes the dog out the door, and can never find the right thing to wear. Here's a trick I've learned. If I meditate before I start rushing around like a mad woman, the need to rush kind of evaporates and I make it work on time even though I'm moving a little slower as I do my morning rituals.

The most surprising part of my new morning meditation ritual (knock on wood) is that after I've focused on my breath for 10 minutes, I take just a few more to do an asana or two.... and my pose of my choice has been Supta Padangusthasana (Reclining Hand to Big Toe Pose). This is an odd choice for me. I've been obsessed with arm balances for the last year and have had very little interest in any pose that works on my already flexible hamstrings... And although I typically get bored of practicing the same poses every day, I've been coming back to this one (and only this one) again and again for the last few weeks.

Image: YogaJournal.com

Guess what? It's SO much more than a hamstring opener! Guess what else?! The twisted variation is my pose nemesis--Revolved Triangle! (I seriously hate this pose when it's a standing pose, but reclined it's pretty awesome.)

Anyway, I'm not sure if my meditation is giving me intuition to work on a pose that my body needs (rather than an arm balance or backbend that feeds my ego) or what the deal is, but right now I'm loving my practice!

What pose are you obsessed with right now?

My Summer Bucket List

2011-05-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Beach Bum by ejrodefer featuring flip flop shoes

I live in paradise. I'm a short drive from some of the most beautiful beaches in the country (maybe even the world). It's gorgeous, sunny, warm, and friendly everywhere you go here. (Trust me, I'm not bragging..) Do you know what do I spend the majority of my time doing? Sitting in front of my computer, of course ....

I want to sit in front of my computer less this summer. This is what I'd like to accomplish instead.

1. Practice yoga by the beach.
2. Buy a boogie board and a beach umbrella. (And learn to use them both!)
3. Read my entire stack of magazines.
4. Try 3 new yoga teachers.
5. Worry less about things I can't control.
6. Buy a plant for my porch.
7. Drink more pina coladas.
8. Spend more time with my husband and pets.
9. Meet friends for coffee/tea/lunch more.
10. Make more time to do things that inspire me to create.
11. Go to the dentist.
12. Sew a dress.
13. Fly a kite.
14. Read more books.
15. Take more pictures.

What's on your list for the summer?

Yoga + Feng Shui = Harmony?

2011-05-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

I can relate mostly anything in life to my yoga practice--changing seasons, grocery shopping, job drama... you name it! There are teachers and lessons everywhere. Even so, I am always a little skeptical when yoga studios try to combine things that aren't obviously related to yoga into a class. There's always the potential that it could be gimmicky... Of course, there's also the potential to teach us something new that's more related to yoga than we ever realized.

Image: Homedit.com

ZenSpot, a hot yoga studio in Eugene, Oregon, is launching a new teacher training program this summer that includes Feng Shui as part of the teacher training curriculum.

"We are sponges, absorbing energy everywhere we go," says studio owner Michael S. Bittner, Ph.D., E-RYT. "Unlike Vegas, what goes on in yoga does not stay in yoga. Energy emitted by the studio be it the layout, materials or personnel cling to your mind, body and spirit. A well thought out studio, designed with Feng Shui principles enhances the mind, body spirit connection. It does so by establishing balance in energy that affirms, enriches and comforts. Would you choose a hospital that is unfriendly, dirty, haphazard and poorly lit? Why settle for a yoga studio that is just that?"

What do you think? Would you be interested in this kind of training? Should Feng Shui be a legit part of teacher training, or is it ancillary and just a trendy hook to get trainees in the door? Do teachers really need to know Feng Shui, or would their time be better spent going more in-depth into the sutras or into anatomy?

For more information click here.

Barre Fitness: It's Not Ballet

2011-05-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

Of all the fitness trends that have popped up in the last few years (Zumba, Crossfit, P90X) none have been more intriguing to me than barre fitness classes. I thought it would take me back to the days when I'd put on tights and a leotard and practiced twirling and stuff (I took ballet when I was about 5-7 so twirling around and dressing up for recitals is really all I remember).

If you had the same perception about barre classes that I did... be warned! This is not like the ballet class you remembered from your childhood. No, no, no. It involves squeezing a ball between your thighs for hours--it seems like hours, anyway. And there are weights! (For the record, I don't do weights.) It gets worse. No one wears a tutu or even a leotard. I did NOT feel like Natalie Portman in Black Swan... but that's probably a good thing.

When I got past the shock that this was indeed a fitness class that would kick my ass, I learned a few things about myself and (of course) my yoga practice.

It's OK to focus on your exterior sometimes. They were shameless about the fact that they were doing this to look better in their bikinis. You never hear, "I hope the instructor is feeling fat today," prior to a yoga class. Nor would a yoga teacher ever say to you, "You're so tiny! I'm sure you'll be just fine in this class." Hmm... I often get the impression that people go to yoga classes because they want to look better in a bikini, but they'd never say that. It was strangely refreshing to be surrounded by women who were totally honest with themselves and each other about their motives. There's nothing wrong with wanting to look good and working toward that goal.

You use totally different muscles to "pulse" than you use to hold yourself in one position. It was interesting to look around the studio and see that other people in class seemed to struggle with the parts of class that involved holding yourself in one position--Plank, Utkatasana, etc. That part was no problem for me, since that's my practice.. but all the lifting and lowering by one inch had me shaking like a leaf within just a couple of seconds. It became very clear to me that my muscles were not accustomed to working in that way.

My back is kind of awesome. This studio had mirrors everywhere. I think the idea is that if you can watch yourself you can correct your own form and get a better work out. I've been practicing yoga for the better part off a decade and have never actually SEEN my back body working (few yoga studios have mirrors). This class changed that. I liked what I saw -- I had no idea that my back looks so strong and defined! I know I have my yoga practice to thank for that.

Next, I think I'll try Zumba.

Have you ever tried a ballet barre fitness class? Did you reach any of the same conclusions I did?

That's Hot: Athletic Skirts

2011-05-29T06:49:00.000-07:00

It feels like summer Charleston, SC with temperatures reaching 90 degrees some days. And even though I'm not exactly a "hot yoga" kind of girl most of the time there's no getting around it these days. I can't even walk from my front door to my car (20 feet away maybe?) without working up a sweat, and it's not even June yet. It's going to be a long, hot summer.

This poses a bit of a problem for my wardrobe since I do not like to wear shorts. Not ever. There's just something about shorts that isn't aesthetically pleasing to me and they leave me feeling a little too exposed. During the hottest of summer days, I opt for a breezy dress or skirt instead. And when it comes to my yoga practice? Well, I've been known to just suffer through it and wear my tried-and-true yoga pants anyway.

Luckily, this year there are more options for my yoga practice: many of my favorite athletic wear companies are making skirts that offer more coverage than shorts but are still cool and breezy.

My favorite is this skirt/skort by MPG, called Leap.

It might have been designed for running or tennis, I don't know. But the built-in shorts underneath this adorable skirt makes it perfect for yoga! You don't have to worry about giving the lucky person on the mat behind you a peep show when you practice your Down Dog.

Inversions? No problem. You're covered.

To and from class is OK, too. Since there's no clingy spandex you don't have to bring along a cover up.

I've been living in this skirt for my yoga practice, walking the dog, grocery store runs, and most anything else I'm doing that's doesn't require me to go into the office.

What do you wear to yoga during the hottest months of summer?

A Lesson for Teachers

2011-05-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

I went to a workshop for teachers today, and I learned many great things about how to communicate the practice of yoga in a more meaningful way. (I'll share more about the workshop later.) But I also noticed something that's been bugging me about yoga teacher workshops for.. well, as long as I've gone to them. When a group of yoga teacher get together to talk teaching techniques, there's usually also at least some energy given to criticizing other teachers (and broadcasting how much more competent WE are).

In part of the workshop we were asked to voice our personality strengths and weaknesses as a teacher. For the weaknesses, a common theme emerged: Insecurity about making mistakes. When a brave soul spoke up about how she beats herself up when she said left instead of right, every head in the room nodded with understanding. We've all been there!

Later, the conversation took at turn for the worse.

Several people talked about their experiences in other people's classes. There wasn't enough instruction. There was too much instruction. This one teacher would NOT shut up... Yada yada yada.*

I bit my tongue.

All I could think is that there's no wonder we beat ourselves up over our teaching mistakes when we sit through this kind of critique of other teachers. I mean, come on! That's one of us you're talking about! God (and anyone who's suffered through one of my classes) knows I've made a TON of mistakes in my teaching efforts.

I have a better idea. The next time I'm in a yoga class and I can tell that the teacher is struggling. I'm not going to roll my eyes and make a note to bring it up in my next teacher workshop. I'm going to smile at her. I'm going to devote my Sun Salutations to her. I'm going to look around and see that even though this might not be working for me, someone else in the room is hearing exactly the message they need to hear in this moment. And when class is over, I'm going to make a point to tell her how much I appreciate her efforts--even if she didn't teach her class the way I would have.

*To be fair, the critique segment was very short compared to others I've endured.

5 Things Yoga Poses Have Taught Me Aboout Life

2011-05-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

1. Alignment, alignment, alignment. In yoga asanas it's important to align your body properly to avoid injuries. I know it sounds cheesy, but I'm learning that if I don't align the way I live my life with my values, I put myself at risk of injuring my spirit.

2. Don't create unnecessary tension. When I get into a pose that challenges me a great deal, the first thing I do is clench my teeth and tense my shoulders. This does not help me achieve the pose. When I face challenges in my life, I tend to panic, rush, place blame, and over-react. This does not help me to

3. If something isn't working, you have the power to change it. I love that joke where a man goes to the doctor with the complaint, "It hurts when I do this," and the doctor says, "Stop doing that, then." Sometimes it really IS that simple. If it hurts when you practice a pose a certain way... change the way you're practicing it. If you have a co-worker who is bringing you down with his constant negativity, you have the power to change the way you relate to that co-worker.

4. Little changes can make a HUGE difference. My practice completely changed when I learned not to jut my ribcage forward, lengthen my tailbone toward the ground, and engage my core. Seriously. Every pose felt different--stronger, more grounded, and all around improved. I don't have time to practice for two hours a day right now, but I can devote 30 minutes to my yoga, and 30 more minutes to writing, reading, and doing other things that make me happy. It's not much, but it totally shifts the entire day.

5. You are capable of more than you ever thought possible. I have to believe that whatever my goals are, I can accomplish them if I approach them determination, hard work, and persistence. Just a few years ago, I saw someone do a challenging arm balance and thought that I'd NEVER be strong enough to do that no matter what. But I can do them now (at least for a brief moment) because I just kept practicing, gaining strength, and learning the technique little by little. It did not happen over night. I remind myself of this when I get discouraged by the small paychecks that trickle in from my writing projects or rejections yoga teaching auditions. It's only a matter of time... so we might as well enjoy the process.

So Hum: Self Expression Through Yoga

2011-05-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

Model: Megan Windeler

Photography: Faern

Writing: Erica Rodefer

"I am kinda a no-frills yogi. I love the practice. I love the holding the basic shapes for a long time, exploring the spaces until some deeper, more blingy variation grows."
– Megan*

Yoga is deceptively simple. You unroll a mat and you stretch a little. What could be simpler than that?! But once you get into the practice you can see there's so much more beneath the surface. The poses are just a very small part. The simplest of poses can be extremely complex at the same time when you pay attention to the little nuances and the energy that make it special.

Like Megan, many of us see ourselves as no-frills yogis—the human equivalent of the simplest poses: Triangle, Warrior 2, Downward Dog. Through the practice of yoga, we get to know ourselves better. We notice how just one little tweak—a stronger grounding of the back foot or a more completely engaged thigh—can change everything. We feel the subtle shifts of energy inside of us. Suddenly, we see how that basic pose is more complex and amazing than we ever dreamed it could be. That's how transformation happens. In life, the yoga is in seeing that we are simple and complex at the same time—that we are perfectly imperfect no matter how we present ourselves in this world.

*Read a complete interview with Megan here.

So-Hum is a series of blog posts and photographs that celebrates individuality, style, and deep self-refection that naturally evolves from the practice of yoga. Models are asked to pose in everyday attire that expresses who they are as a person and yoga practitioner.

Would you like to take part in this project as a model? Please be in touch by emailing this address sohum.selfexpression@gmail.com and we’ll send more information. If you are not in the Bay Area or planning a visit, do not worry, there are travel plans afoot, subscribe to the blogs http://www.faern-in-the-works.com and http://spoiledyogi.blogspot.com to keep in touch and get updates on travel plans”

Faern is a yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Visit her website, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

Yoga Is ...

2011-05-09T17:46:00.000-07:00

Yoga is staying in Savasana even when your dog is licking your face and your husband comes home from the grocery store with cupcakes ...

Yoga is learning how to let go of tension you don't need in your body, then learning how to let go of tensions you don't need in your life...

Yoga is failing a hundred thousand times at a pose, but practicing it anyway with faith that eventually, when the time is right, you'll get it ...

Yoga is being OK with the fact that the time might never be right in this lifetime ...

Yoga is about fooling yourself into believing you are actually calm and centered until it actually starts to be true (if only just for a moment) ...

Yoga is genuinely loving and appreciating the feeling of breathing oxygen into your lungs ...

Yoga is .... (It's your turn! Comment below!)

Stress ... I'm Opting Out

2011-05-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

Stress is stupid.

I've been paying close attention to the things that stress me out lately. What I've noticed is that I get in a tizzy over things that don't actually matter--a typo on a blog post or press release, failing to reach some arbitrary goal at work, not meeting some family member's expectation. These things that I get SO upset about don't put someone's life on the line. They don't threaten someone's job. They don't even cost a lot of money.

So why on earth do I get so stressed out about things that I can't control and that don't matter anyway? I don't know... but I've decided not to do it any more. That's right. I'm opting out. I can't control many, many things in life, but I can control the way I react to them. So the next time something trivial seems like a life-or-death matter when it's really not that big of a deal I'm going to close my eyes, breathe deep, and try to see it as an objective observer. And if that doesn't work, I'm going to work it all out on my yoga mat.

What dumb things do you stress about? How do you put it into perspective? What do you do to

5 Things You Should Never Say to Your Teacher

2011-05-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

1. My other teacher says you should never do it that way..

2. OUCH! My back!! ...(Teacher comes running)... Just kidding. Bahahahaha!

3. Don't touch that. My fungus might be contagious.

4. You're really flexible.. I bet your husband likes that.

5. It may not look like, but my shoulders ARE relaxed. Promise.

Mindful Monday: Unveiled

2011-05-02T18:42:00.000-07:00

It's wedding season. I just returned from my second of two out-of-town weddings in the past two weeks. I traveled far and near. I bought a new dress. My bridesmaid duties have been fulfilled.

But all this wedding business has me thinking a lot about veils. In a traditional white-dress wedding, the bride's veil is symbolic of the bride's purity.

From Wikipedia: "The lifting of the veil was often a part of ancient wedding ritual, symbolising the groom taking possession of the wife, either as lover or as property, or the revelation of the bride by her parents to the groom for his approval."

Romantic, huh?

I don't have any statistics to prove it, but I think all this virginal bride stuff isn't very common today. Brides do the whole veil thing because it's tradition or fashionable ... but it's usually kind of a facade.

This past weekend, as I traveled for a wedding, I read an article by Sally Kempton about avidya, meaning delusion or ignorance. It's like we're walking through life with a veil in front of our faces, unable to see who we really are. We're not trying to fool our friends and families into thinking we're virgins, but we're fooling ourselves. As humans, we identify with our emotions, thoughts, and feelings, but that's not who we really are. When sadness emerges, we think "I'm sad." Kempton suggests a change in that inner dialogue. Instead of thinking "I'm sad," what if we thought, "Here's some sadness"? Instead of identifying with feelings (both good and bad), just notice them and observe without judgment. It's only when we lift the veil that can we can begin to see that we are much more than our emotions and thoughts. I think it's still OK to wear them as a fashion statement, though.

Princess Pose: A Royal Affair!

2011-04-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

I am perhaps the girliest of girly girls. I like pink, tutus, and tiaras. I have been known to wear high heels to the grocery store. I doodle flowers, rainbows, unicorns, and Care Bears in the margins of my notebooks. And I have been looking forward to Prince Williams wedding since I was 14 years old. Of course, at the time, I had envisioned it going down a little differently... For one, I was going to be there.. in a tiara.. You know, Princess Diaries style (I was recently told I look like Anne Hathaway, after all.)

Anyway, it recently dawned on me that I will never be crowned the princess of Wales. I will never be Miss America. I will not be a ballerina, Olympic ice skater, or even homecoming queen. My childhood ambitions are slipping away before my very eyes. (Sigh.)

But I can still be a yoga goddess!

Image: Womenfitness.net

There are plenty of poses that make me feel like a princess. I feel pampered every time I get on my mat because I'm doing something that's just for me. But no pose makes me feel more princess-y than Supta Baddha Konasana. When I'm propped up on blankets and bolsters, I even feel like I'm sitting on a throne. There better not be a pea under those blankets....

Image by Flickr User: roxanneparker

What pose makes you feel like a princess?

5 Ways to Make Your Lunch Break More "Yogic"

2011-04-25T18:15:00.000-07:00

To-Go Ware

1. Take one. Sometimes I work right through lunch without even noticing that I missed it. This is very, very bad. It makes for a very long day and a head ache. I am going to start setting an alarm so this never happens again.

2. Meditate. I don't go sit under a tree outside my office and meditate because my co-workers already think I'm weird because I sit in Lotus at my desk... But I do try to at least get out of the office and take 10 deep breaths. And I've always felt a bazillion-kajillion times better afterward.

3. Stretch. Oh, how I long for the days when I could practice yoga every single day during my lunch breaks! Alas, I am no longer spoiled in this way. I practice yoga at my desk all day long by taking a lot off stretch breaks. Lunch is the perfect opportunity to squeeze in a few extra ones.

4. Do something that fulfills you. For me, sometimes it's blogging or tweeting with my pals. Other times, it's thumbing through a fashion magazine, taking a walk, or logging into my puppy cam to see what my sweet Penny is up to.

5. Do nothing. When you finish eating before your hour is up... don't you DARE go back to your desk! Put your legs up the wall. Close your eyes. Take a Siesta. But don't short-change yourself by going back to work early. If you don't take care of yourself, no one else will.

Besides, the next time you take a nice, refreshing break in the middle of your day, notice how productive you are in the afternoon. I've noticed that I actually accomplish MORE by taking a full hour lunch break than hen I try to power through it and get everything done.

How do you make the most of your lunch break?

Yoga Idol

2011-04-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

OK.. I admit it. One of my guiltiest of all pleasures is American Idol.

I'm the first to admit that my time would be better spent if I devoted some of the time I've wasted watching mindless television to something more productive... yoga, meditation, community service, blogging...

But this show has caused me to think a lot about what makes a great performer and great leader. Contestants on American Idol have many of the same qualities that great yoga teachers have... Coincidentally, I think they are also characteristics that yoga can help cultivate.

1. Voice. Will practicing yoga give you an amazing singing voice? Nope. But it can help you become more clear about the message that it conveys.

2. Confidence. If you don't believe in yourself, why should anyone else? To be an idol you have to be Nothing makes you more confident than arm balances.

3. Grace. It takes a special personality to take criticism in stride. It takes incredible resolve to believe in yourself no matter what anyone else says.

4. Charisma. How can yoga give you more charisma? It makes you more comfortable in who you are ... so you stop holding back and let it all hang out--your humor, goofiness, flaws and failures. That's my definition of charisma.

5. Empathy. If you want others to relate to you and your stories, you have to be able to put yourself in their shoes. When you start to understand yourself more clearly through practicing yoga, helps you to understand how others feel. Whether you're looking to connect with people as a performer or just in your everyday life, this is what makes people shine.

Do you agree?

Dear Hamstrings ...

2011-04-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

Image: http://www.padma-yoga.net/

Dear Hamstrings,
Are you mad at me? I know I haven't been paying you enough attention lately. I'm sorry I'm always sitting for long hours at a desk without taking enough stretch breaks. But it's not very mature of you to stand your ground like that when I finally have a few minutes to practice my Paschimottanasana. Your behavior really hurt my feelings.. and it didn't help my ego much either. Let's make a deal. If I promise to stretch with you every night this week, and let you take as much time as you need to open... can we be friends again?
xoxoxoxo,
Erica

So Hum: Self Expression through Yoga

2011-04-14T17:42:00.000-07:00

Model: Jody Greene

Photography By Faern

Interview By SpoiledYogi

The only instruction you were given prior to this photo shoot is not to wear traditional yoga clothes! Tell us why you chose your outfit. What does it say about you?

I wear jeans and boots pretty much every day. I keep exploring the possibility that yoga doesn't have to be something that occurs in a special place--a yoga studio--in a special outfit--what you call here "traditional yoga clothes." So if I want yoga to permeate my life, I'd better be able to practice in jeans and boots. And the leather jacket? Well, that's just for fun. And it prevents road rash if you tumble out of an asphalt inversion.

How does yoga help you to express who you are and who you want to be?

Yoga doesn't help me access who I am; it helps me take apart and look at who I think I am, bit by bit, piece by stubborn piece. Through yoga I find again and again that my fixed ideas about this person, this one, are just an assemblage of stories I've collected over time. And when I don't know who I am anymore, I can begin to experience wonder and curiosity and true open inquiry about who I might become.

What important lessons have you learned about yourself through your yoga practice?

Not knowing is the most intimate. OK, that's a famous zen aphorism, but I get to study that lesson, that koan, every day when I climb onto my yoga mat or when I just wake up and take a new breath. I have no idea what will happen. That I should have ended up deeply immersed in these spiritual practices--in zen and yoga--well, if you'd met me a dozen years ago, you wouldn't have predicted that this was the turn my life would take. Not in a million years. And if you'd told me this is what my life would be, I would have laughed in your face. And not in a nice way. No ahimsa aspirations for this one. So--what have I learned, what am I learning? Everything is up for grabs, nothing is predictable. Take care of your life, yes; set intentions and take care of this precious life. But know that tomorrow, the life you have been taking care of could be transformed beyond recognition. And have faith that your practice and your teachers will sustain you through that transformation and all those that follow.

What's your favorite pose? Why?

Padmasana, Siddhasana, Sukhasana: these are the original yoga postures-- the ones for which all the others are, more or less, designed to prepare you. I came to yoga through sitting, in order to ease and support my sitting practice, so these postures are very dear to my heart and central to my practice. When I practice, I set an intention to take care of my body so I can sit in peace. I practice from that place. Beyond these, I have an ongoing love affair with anahatasana--it's a deep, forehead to the floor bow and a heart opener at the same time. What's not to love?

Tell us what inspires you so we can be inspired, too.

When I get on my mat at sunrise to sit for a few minutes and perform a handful of sun salutations, maybe chanting a few rounds of the gayatri mantra, I remember that for the last few thousand years, countless numbers of humans have done these same simple actions every day. Talk about inspiration. Sadhana has not stopped, not once. And it doesn't have to be complicated, and you can always feel supported and companioned when you do it. Listen to this: for thousands of years, there has never been a sunrise without Surya Namaskar, there has never been a dawn without voices chanting the gayatri, there has never been a new day without the sangha gathering, in groups or alone, to take a few moments to breathe in silence and prepare for whatever arises in the hours to follow, known or unknown. That simple fact still blows my mind, and I feel grateful and so blessed to have stumbled onto this path, this dharma lifeway, in lycra and leather, to join in. Get up, light a candle, take a breath, and become part of the great stream of practice awakening. It's

irresistible.

Faern is a yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Visit her website, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

Would you like to take part in this project as a model? Please be in touch by emailing this address sohum.selfexpression@gmail.com and we’ll send more information. If you are not in the Bay Area or planning a visit, do not worry, there are travel plans afoot, subscribe to the blogs http://www.faern-in-the-works.com and http://spoiledyogi.blogspot.com/ to keep in touch and get updates on travel plans”

Yoga is Friendship

2011-04-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

"Yoga is like a friend--and you want to keep friends for a long time," said the amazing Cora Wen during the Friday night workshop I had to pleasure of attending. "Sometimes you might get mad at your friend and not talk to her for a while. But if you're good friends, you will usually come around. That's how it is with yoga, you might drift away for a while, but yogis almost always come back."

It's an extremely comforting thought.

I am incredibly blessed ... but after moving across the country a few months ago and starting a demanding job there are two things I could use more of in my life: yoga and friends. One brief encounter with Cora Wen gave me a healthy dose of both! She taught me yoga AND invited me to dinner with a group of amazing (and local) yogis! (See? I told you I'm spoiled..)

I've had a yoga crush on Cora ever since the first time I laid eyes on her amazing headstand pictures. This woman has no problem inverting (and having her photo snapped) in front of all kinds of beauty--in nature, in the city, and across the world! Of course, she also has the most amazing presence online through blogging and social media. All of her personality and enthusiasm for life had me fooled into believing she must be a younger teacher... After all, there aren't many older teachers out there sharing their teachings through tweets or standing on their heads at street fairs. But she brings so much experience and knowledge to her teachings, it's mind-blowing.

Much of what's written about Cora talks about how she bridges the gap between the East and the West, and I certainly agree. But to me it's more interesting how she bridges the gap between the traditional, old-school yoga and the emerging, new yoga community. Tradition is important to her. She passes down the legacy of her teachers with such honor and respect, but brings those teachings to the rest of us through Tweets, blog posts, over cocktails, or wherever she is. I, for one, am immensely grateful for teachers like her, who take yoga seriously ... but not so seriously that it's hard for us to relate to them.

Review: Mishoga Wear

2011-04-10T18:48:00.000-07:00

For me, yoga is more than a practice. It's an art form. So when I look for yoga clothes, I look for something that can help me to express the beauty, originality, and serenity I feel when I practice.

That's exactly what I found when I got an unexpected package in the mail from a Twitter friend, Mish Volonino, the founder and designer at MishogaWear. She sent me the most sophisticated pair of tie-dyed yoga pants I've ever seen! (And you KNOW I have a lot of yoga pants!) The image above shows the hand painted Buddha on the pant leg right beneath the Tibetan writing that says "Om Mani Padme Hum," the universal mantra of Tibet. This is admittedly a foreign concept to me, but I love the sweet sentiment. My photography does not do it justice.

You see, Mish is more than a designer... She's real artist. Mish paints the designs onto her custom-made yoga clothes by hand. She also does hand embroidery, screen printing, drawing of designs, and crystal embellishments. The result is a unique, but totally wearable work of art!

Mindful Monday: An Update

2011-04-04T18:47:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make...

Mindful Monday has taken a backseat to, well, life. I'm not proud of it.. but it's the pattern for me. I have never been able to make time for meditation every single day for an extended period of time. Maybe I'm just not ready. Maybe I'm not disciplined enough. Maybe I don't have what it takes. But for whatever reason, I've fallen off the wagon once again. It was nice while it lasted.

I take a lot of deep breaths during my work day. And I've been practicing standing on my hands a lot lately.. II practice mindfulness every time I take my dog for a walk.

Does that count?

America's Next Top Yoga Model!

2011-04-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

YJ contestant Geri Girardin

The yoga community is all a-flutter about Yoga Journal's Talent Search model contest. In case you don't follow the on-goings of YJ, they asked their readers to submit pictures of themselves to be voted on to determine a winner, who will get to fly to California for a photo shoot.

Needless to say, there has been a lot of controversy about the contest. The lovely Anna Guest-Jelly from Curvy Yoga encouraged all the curvy yogis out there submit their pictures in an effort to show the editors that beauty can come in all shapes and sizes. Nancy Alder from Flying Yogi and Core Power teacher Sadie Nardini took exception to the "tighty brighty" wardrobe mentality and protested to the focus on external appearances by submitting their picture in seated meditation with their backs to the camera. Meanwhile, Yoga Dork is hosting a photo contest of her own in response: "For our version, it’s not so much a contest as a declaration of satya (truth): We ask you send a photo of who you are, as a yogi, a real person, in any shape, size, age, gender or color/clinginess of clothing. We’re not selling magazines. No fancy poses required, but by all means go for what speaks YOU."

Now that the photos have been submitted and the voting has begun, my inbox has been flooded with emails and Facebook messages (all from ladies who are more than deserving to be in a magazine) urging me to vote for them.

Whether they want to win this competition to challenge the status quo or just think it would be really cool to live the glamorous life of a yoga model for a day... everyone wants to be a yoga model -- or at the very least to feel represented in the yoga community!

Last week, I posted a status update on my Facebook page about how conflicted I am about voting--torn between so many deserving people who I also consider friends. Within seconds a teacher I really admire posted a response, "because yoga is all about being beautiful and modeling." He deleted his comment before I could reply, but it made me think... Is yoga about being beautiful? No, of course not! But is feeling beautiful, accepted, and validated a part of the practice? I think it is! I know I always feel great when a teacher tells me one of my poses is beautiful.

I don't love the competition aspect of YJ's contest (because I don't think that's very aligned with yoga philosophy)... But I'm thrilled that I can look through all the gorgeous photographs that were submitted and rate every one of them as highly as I possibly can. Because seeing beauty in each other (no matter how precise the pose) IS what yoga is all about as far as I'm concerned.

So Hum: Self Expression through Yoga

2011-03-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

Cityscape

Photography by Faern, Faernworks.com

Writing by Erica Rodefer

Model: Regina Franco

“Yoga reminds me that we, as humanity, are ONE—that our fears, desires and dreams are all actually the same. So when I see the world, I see a reflection of myself and yoga reminds me to approach all of my human interactions and relationships whether it’s romantic, friendship, familial, professional or casual from a place of loving compassion. We need one another. We need to lift each other up as we truly are better together than we are apart.” – Regina Franco

It’s funny that in a place like San Francisco, you could walk through the streets naked, singing at the top of your lungs, and people will barely even look up at you as you walk past. The city mentality is that the actions of others are none of your business… but yoga teaches us that the truth is, our combined actions impact each other and the world as a whole in a profound way.

A thriving cityscape is the perfect illustration of how we’re all inter-connected. I love this shot of Regina in San Francisco’s Union Square because it’s a beautiful reminder of just how connected we are.

It takes all kinds of people, with various passions, to make a city work. The CEO in a fancy business suit depends on the MUNI bus driver to get to his appointments on time. The San Francisco storeowner depends on the tourists from Nebraska to make a living. The pigeons, walking all bobble-headed on the sidewalk, depend on the crumbs left for them by the people. We might think we’re someone’s complete opposite, but if you look closely, we’re all just looking for love and acceptance… doing the best we can with what we’ve got.

In a city, a smile from a stranger on the sidewalk can brighten your mood and put a smile on your face. If one happy, smiling person passes 100 people on the way to work, just imagine the impact it can have! It’s a comfort to know that when you’re kind to yourself, you’re kind to others and when you’re kind to others you’re kind to yourself. That’s what the practice of yoga is really all about.

Faern is a yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Visit her website, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

Erica Rodefer is a writer and yoga enthusiast in Charleston, SC. Visit her blog, Spoiledyogi.com, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

Would you like to take part in this project as a model? Please be in touch by emailing this address sohum.selfexpression@gmail.com and we’ll send more information. If you are not in the Bay Area or planning a visit, do not worry, there are travel plans afoot, subscribe to the blogs http://www.faern-in-the-works.com and http://spoiledyogi.blogspot.com/ to keep in touch and get updates on travel plans”

Obsessed

2011-03-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

wholeliving.com

I have a new yoga obsession. Handstand. I can't stop it. I just kick and kick and kick up every chance I get. I'm not even sure why.

Handstand is not a new pose for me. I've been able to kick up at the wall for years. After the first time I tried a Handstand in a yoga class, I didn't have too much trouble because I remembered doing it when I'm little. I've been obsessed with arm balances for ages, but Handstand was kind of ho-hum.. until recently, that is...

What's different now? I stepped away from the wall and something magical happened... I balanced!

I'm not ready for the middle of the room stuff yet, but I can hop up and stay there for a few seconds before I either fall out of it or end up with my heels against the wall. If this isn't something you've experienced before believe me when I say it's an AMAZING feeling! The weightlessness! The freedom! The power!

I'm addicted. Seriously, I think I've tried (to varying degrees of success) 500 times just today. It's so exciting because I think once I've mastered balancing in Handstand a whole world of new and exciting poses will open up to me.. I'm stoked!

What pose are you obsessed with right now?

5 Tips to Avoid Muffin Top

2011-03-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

Since I started this blog about a year ago, I've gotten a few fun questions from readers. Sometimes people ask me where to find inexpensive yoga gear or what classes I recommend for beginners. But the one question I've received more than any other really doesn't have much to do with yoga at all: How do I avoid the dreaded muffin top!? Yoga pants are fitted and sometimes even the thinnest among us sometimes notice a little flesh spilling out over our waistbands. Let's get one thing straight. I think women should embrace their bodies, feel confident, and love every little curve, bump, and lovely lady lump (to quote the Black Eyed Peas). Frankly, that's one of the most valuable lessons I've learned from my yoga practice.

That said, I've learned a few tricks to minimize this problem. So I thought I'd share them with all of you!

1. Avoid Elastic Waistbands at ALL Costs. If you're worried about muffin top, opt for a drawstring or foldover top yoga pant.

2. Check Your Undies. Panties are a BIG issue for me. If you wear underwear to yoga class, make sure they fit correctly. If you're underwear is giving you muffin top it doesn't matter what pair of yoga pants you put on over it.

3. Buy a Bigger Size. Sometimes all you need to do to banish muffin top is buy a bigger size! I will admit to having a problem with this some of the time. It's silly, but it's pretty important to me to buy the size that I think I should wear (even though I know sizes vary drastically between brands and styles). So.. I simply won't buy a pair of pants if there's not plenty of room for movement (and bloating after a big meal) in the size I think I should wear. It's dumb, though, so don't be like me. Just buy a bigger size... and cut out the tag if it makes you feel better.

4. Try a Higher Rise. Most muffin tops are the result of low rise pants that sit on the fleshiest part of the body (between the natural waist and the hip). Avoiding it could be as simple as finding a style with a slightly higher rise. Also, make sure your top is long enough to give you full coverage--especially when you bend over for Uttanasana!

5. Eat Fewer Muffins. I'm kidding! If you take nothing else away from this blog, understand that the muffin top phenomenon is NOT YOUR FAULT! It doesn't mean you're fat. You certainly don't need to go on a diet or do more crunches. I blame poorly constructed pants and clothing designers that don't understand real our bodies!

To Cleanse or Not to Cleanse

2011-03-19T17:59:00.000-07:00

In yoga we talk a lot about detoxing. I guess the theory is that we collect harmful things in our bodies, and we want to move them out as soon as possible. We often think of these toxins as physical things we've either put into our bodies (pesticides lingering on conventionally-grown produce, hormones from meat or dairy, caffeine, processed foods) and from the environment we live in (pollution, radiation, etc.). Of course, we also tend to hold negative emotions--stress, fear, anxiety--in our bodies. So to rid ourselves of these toxins we build heat hoping to sweat them out. We twist and churn our bellies, trying to kick our digestive systems into gear so toxins exit through, well, our digestive track.

Image: Yoga-Abode.com

If you think that sounds gross, just wait until you hear some of the things ancient yogis did to cleanse themselves! They'd drink saline water to get things "moving" if you know what I mean. They'd put a string up their noses and pull it out their mouths to "floss" their sinuses (if you use a neti pot--it's the same idea!). My favorite one is a kind of dhauti, where the practitioner swallows a long strip of cloth (all except the end), then pulls it back out taking impurities from the stomach out with it. All I can say is that I hope they threw that cloth away when they were done. Yuck-O!

When you hear about that type of cleansing, today's popular dietary cleanses seem kind of mild. Today, when you hear a yoga student say he's cleansing, it probably means he's restricting the foods he takes into his body and takes in only cleansing foods and beverages instead. There are kinds of cleanses--juice cleanses, fruit cleanses, and the Master Cleanse (nothing but lemon water, cayenne pepper, and maple syrup).

I'm telling you all of this because I'm contemplating a cleanse of my own. I did a cleanse a couple of years ago where I gradually worked my way to eating only fruits and veggies for a few days. I had heard that cleansing would make me feel energetic, clear up my skin, and help me get on the right track to healthy eating. When it was all said and done, I'm not sure if I felt "cleaner" or not.. I almost want to do it again because knowing what to expect, I might be able to understand it all a little better.

I like the idea of getting rid of toxins, but at the same time... a cleanse sounds a lot like a crash diet. And the whole idea that there's something wrong with our bodies--that they're unclean--is kind of contradictory to the philosophy that we're all perfect just as we are. And that's my favorite yogic philosophy! Plus, it seems pretty silly to go all out with a cleanse for a couple of weeks if I have no intention of giving up cupcakes in this lifetime...

So, I need some feedback.. Should I try it again? Have you ever done a cleanse?

Time Management

2011-03-14T18:03:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't noticed.. I haven't had much free time lately. It feels like I don't have time to do anything--not enough time to blog or practice or read or tweet... It's left me scratching my head, wondering what happens to the 24 hours I have every day.

I recently started a new job that requires me to commute 30 minutes each way, which means I'm away for 10 hours every day. It takes me an hour to get ready for work in the morning. I walk the dog for at least 30 minutes. It takes another hour or so to make and eat dinner. I sleep for 8 hours. That leaves me about 4 hours of free time at the end of the day. That should be enough time to practice, chat with my husband about his day, and watch an hour of some silly reality television show. So why does it feel like I can't even catch my breath at the end of the day?

I don't know!

But something's got to give so I can get back on track and start to feel normal again!

How do you get back into the swing of things when it feels like time is working against you?

10 Things You Shouldn't Think About During Savasana

2011-03-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

I have all sorts of inappropriate thoughts during Savasana that never pop into my head any other time. Here just a sampling of what I thought about during my Savasana today.

1. What I should have said to that lady who over-charged you for grapes at the market.
2. Taxes. I hope that accountant has all the info he needs.
3. Laundry. I wish my mom still did mine so I could just hang out in Savasana
4. Song lyrics -- Baby, I was born this way!
5. Commercial Jingles -- Sa-ki House. For today and tonight.. The most original, traditional, Japanese delight.
6. I wonder what the other people in class are thinking about...
7. Cupcakes. I love cupcakes!
8. I really wish I had a cupcake right now..
9. It's weird that one of the top search terms for my blog is "cupcake".. Do I really write about them that often?
10. I should definitely write a blog when I get home!

Speaking of Savasana thoughts, this is my favorite yoga video on Youtube:

Oh, and in case you're curious about the commercial... Here it is! Now you can have it in YOUR head during Savasana, too!

Review: Manduka eQua Plus Towel

2011-03-01T17:56:00.000-08:00

There are few things in life that give me more pride that the giant hole I have worn in my yoga mat. Every time I look at it I beam thinking about the hours of yoga practice it took to cause such a gaping hole in my high-end yoga mat. It's been by my side through many break-throughs and break downs. So, obviously, I am not interested in throwing it out or replacing it with another one.

But, lately, I've been feeling just a little bit self conscious about my old, stinky, worn out mat when I go to studio classes. I try not to worry about what other people think of me, but nobody wants to be perceived as the smelly person in class (or, in this case, the person with the smelly mat). Of course, my mat doesn't stink, but I think it looks like it might. You know what I mean?

So when Manduka offered to let me try one of their eQua Plus Towels, I thought it might be the perfect solution for me. The towel is big enough to cover my hole!! Plus, it turns out it's pretty useful, too. In a hot and sweaty class, it kept my hands and feet from slipping. I also love the girly color--I chose pink, obviously!--and the soft, velvety feel (which was really surprising to me because it's made out of recycled coconut shells). And Manduka promises their coconut fabric is a technology that eliminates bacteria and will never stink! I also love that this is a product with tons of uses. I plan to take mine with me to the pool, gym, and wrap up in it when I'm chilly for my morning meditation session.

Glamorous Yoga Poses

2011-02-27T16:44:00.000-08:00

As I write this blog, I'm watching the Oscar Awards red carpet... There are glamorous movie stars in fabulous sparkly dresses and neat tuxes, many of whom are living out their dreams before our eyes. It's the stuff that dreams are made of.

I can make a yoga metaphor out of anything, but this one is almost too easy--all the hard work, the failed auditions, beaming confidence, and all the many people it takes to create the actors (not to mention the films themselves!). Choose your own metaphor.... Tonight, I'm more interested in the glitz and glamor.

Yoga students are glamorous in our own right. There are a few poses that make me feel kind of like an Oscar nominee, myself. Here are my choices for most glamorous yoga poses. What are yours?


HeatherYoga.com


YogaDestin.com


MagicTimes.com

YogaJournal.com

A Yoga Story: Meredith

2011-02-22T17:47:00.000-08:00

1. What made you decide to take your first yoga class? Describe the experience. Yoga was a calling. I starting taking yoga in 1996 when I was living in Las Vegas. There was not a single studio in the city at the time but the voice in my head kept saying yoga. I really had no idea what yoga was other than seeing Lilias Folan on PBS a few times as a kid, and what I remember of that was being impressed by her matching leotards and tights. But the voice would not go away. Having a few friends into astrology and homeopathy I asked around and was directed to my teacher Sherry Goldstein. What was neat was she was teaching in random places such as apartment complex rec rooms and dance studios - spaces devoid of yoga symbols and decoration. Even though our practice spaces weren't yoga'd out, there was no hiding the spiritual aspect of the mind, body, spirit connection. I was hooked immediately.

(Sherry still teaches yoga in Las Vegas in her 2 beautiful studios, the Yoga Sanctuary.)

2. Tell us about one of your biggest yoga a-ha moments.
I have lots a-ha moments in yoga, but the biggest came in 2007. By this time I was back home in Rhode Island and practicing yoga with an old grade school friend who had opened her own studio (where I now teach). One evening before class and she said to me, "Hey, I'm doing I teacher training starting next month, you should take it." Before I had a second to think about it I heard the words, "OK, sign me up" come out of my mouth.

Normally I like to ponder things a little before committing plus this required good size financial and time commitment too, so I was surprised by my quick answer. A few months earlier my grandmother had passed leaving me a small inheritance that would cover the tuition. Also, at the point I was doing freelance makeup for weddings (weekends!), so I decided to retire my brushes. I honored what weddings I had contracted and figured ways with my teacher to make up the class time I would miss. I had known since my first class with Sherry that someday I would teach, thus began my next yogic journey balancing time, money, studying, and teaching.

3. Besides the teacher who is supposed to teach you yoga, who or what is your best yoga teacher? (Think unconventional teachers here... nature, your dog, your kid, your dentist...)
This one is easy: my dogs. My heavenly angel Nicki, who graces my twitter pic, was the great quiet sage. She taught me how to fully give in love, how to be patient, how to be still, and how to live what is in my heart. Scarlet, my Facebook pic, teaches me everyday to live joyously in the moment, how to be heard, and how to let go.

4. Where is the craziest place you've ever done yoga?
When I moved cross country back to Rhode Island I drove. I did yoga at every rest stop to keep my body from getting stiff. I got plenty of interesting looks as I did sun salutes and headstand in the grassy patches.

5. Describe your yoga journey in 3 words.
Living in presence.

Meredith blogs at The Pondering Yogi.

5 Props Every Beginning Yoga Student Should Have

2011-02-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

One of my first yoga teachers kicked my ass with props. (No, not literally! Although, I once dropped one of those wooden blocks on my toe, making the nail black for months.) Anyway, when I was a wee beginning yoga student, I thought props were for sissies. Or people who were too out of shape to touch their toes. Or for people seeking a "gentle" practice. Since I did not want to be any of these things, I would just struggle through every pose without any help, thank you very much. When my teacher suggested some of the people in the room might benefit from use of a prop, I'd just smile because I knew she was clearly not talking to me. It went this way for months until one day my teacher made a sweet suggestion to use a block. I ignored her. Then, she looked me in the eye and suggested a block again, this time a little more firmly. I still ignored her, sure she wasn't talking to me. Finally she stood up, walked across the room, picked up a block, walked back across the room and put it in my face. "Here! You need this!" I was embarrassed. I was also mad for at least a week. But I decided that in her class I might as well just use the blasted prop so she wouldn't embarrass me again. After a few more classes I realized that props were actually helping my practice--I was able to go deeper into the pose, feel things I'd never noticed before. I had been converted!

Guess what!? I've been practicing for eight years now and props are STILL a necessity. Only now I know that props are not a sign of weakness--they're a useful tool and EVERYBODY needs to use them sometimes.

That said, here's my list of yoga props every beginning yoga student should have in their homes. If you practice in a yoga studio you probably don't need to lug all of your props with you (they will have plenty there!), but it's nice to have your own stuff for your home practice--which is where most of the transforming takes place!

1. Yoga Mat. Yoga mats are important to keep your hands and feet from slipping as you practice. I think it's important to have your own for two reasons. 1-Renting a mat is icky. There's sweat, germs, bacteria, and I don't even want to know what else on there. 2-It's an investment in your commitment to the practice. It's also a physical reminder to practice when you see your yoga mat propped up in the corner of a room somewhere.

2. Eye Pillow. Eye pillows are my favorite prop ever! Sure, they're great for Savasana. But there are a lot of different uses, too. (Click here for a list.) If you don't want to spend the $20 on a cutesy one in your yoga studios boutique you can easily make your own. You don't even have to sew! Just fill up one of those socks you have laying around without a match and fill it up with rice, beans, or flax seeds.

3. Strap. Straps are important--not just for those times when you can't reach your toes--but also for those times when your hands can almost clasp or when you can ALMOST back bend so deeply you can ALMOST touch your foot to the back of your head. Everyone needs one. But you don't have to have a "yoga" strap. If you're at home a plain ol' belt that holds your jeans up will work just as well in most cases!

4. Blocks. Blocks bring the floor closer to you when you can't quite reach. But they also are great for giving you a little extra lift when you're learning arm balances or jumping through. I recommend you get two sturdy wooden blocks (just make sure you don't drop them on your toes!). The foam ones are too squishy and feel like they might collapse if you put your weight on them. Of course, if you don't have blocks yet I'm sure you have some things around the house you can substitute--a stack of text books, maybe?

5. Blanket (or 2). Blankets are another versatile yoga prop. You can fold them so they're thick or thin, long or narrow. Two blankets stacked on top of each other make a suitable alternative for a bolster for restorative poses. Blanket Folding 101 -- Lie or sit over the side with the fold not the blanket's edges so you'll be even and more supported.

3 Ways to Wear Yoga Leggings -- A Guide for Petite Girls

2011-02-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

For years I avoided leggings like the plague. Like many women, the last thing I wanted to do was draw attention to my hip and thigh area. I thought that anything with a tapered leg would just bring attention to how wide my hips and thighs are--in relation to my calves and ankles, anyway. I'm all about using yoga fashion to accentuate the body parts I feel good about, but I think I got this one wrong.

Not only do boot cut yoga pants tend to make petite people look like they're swimming in Spandex--and make it harder for your teacher to see your alignment--they also make already-short legs look even shorter. Add to this the extra hassle of taking a new pair of pants to get it hemmed and it's almost enough make me a total leggings convert.

Hemming isn't necessary for leggings--even if they're way too long! Here are three adorable ways I've found to make leggings even more flattering (and more versatile) on a petite frame-and they utilize the most current yoga fashion trends!

I Gathered That

I Am Beyond Gathered Leggings

Almost every yoga fashion line includes a pair of gathered leggings. (My favorites are these by I Am Beyond, formerly Beyond Yoga, because they're soft, squishy, and super flattering.) But if you're on the shorter side, you can just as easily buy a regular length pair of leggings and simply use your fingers near the ankle to make the gathers where you want them, and Voila!

(Just to clarify, my suggestion is for gathered leggings that are pant length--if you try to do it to the capri length (so it looks like the picture) they WILL slide down and drive you crazy the whole time you practice!

Cold Feet

Kathryn Budig rocks a long legging

Is it a sock? Is it a leg warmer? Are those stirrup pants? No! It's just a yoga legging that's a few inches inches too long hooked over the curve of the heel! It's great for cooler weather, keeps your leggings in place, and leaves most of the foot exposed to provide plenty of traction and feedback from the floor.

Covered Up

Zobha's legging look for Spring 2011

One of my favorite things about having yoga leggings is that they are so versatile! You can easily get away with wearing them under a skirt or dress in your everyday life, too--and no one will even question if you're on your way to or from the yoga studio. That means more bang for your buck and more creative mixing and matching options. For me, that's a win-win.

What's your favorite way to wear leggings?

Mindful Monday: Yes, I Know It's Tuesday

2011-02-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

I was busy yesterday so Mindful Monday is going to happen on Tuesday this week. I hope you don't mind. I stumbled upon this video, which made me laugh because so many of my meditation sessions are like this. It's good to see that I'm not the only one who has such trouble. Anyone else?

Anyway, I've been meditating daily for three weeks now (although, I admit to skipping a day this week)... I'm back on track. Here are a few observations from the last week:

Not Helpful:

Caffeine
Chewing Gum
Dog and/or cat in your lap, licking your hand, or staring at you
People outside your window mowing
The dog barking at people mowing outside your window
Stomach that is too full or too empty

Helpful:

Writing a to-do list before you sit.
Imagining a happy thought on the inhale (for you) and on the exhale (for the world)
2-3 Sun Salutations first
Knowing that I have to blog an update every week.
Knowing that my online community supports and encourages me every time I blog!

Yoga, Love, and Other Mushy Stuff

2011-02-15T06:39:00.000-08:00

Oh hey! Did you guys know that yesterday was Valentine's Day? The holiday of red hearts and flowers and chocolate and teddy bears? I think it's supposed to be about something else, too.. Oh yes, love and other mushy stuff...

Now, to someone who thinks that yoga is just an exercise that involves stretching, it might seem like a leap to connect yoga with love. The rest of us know that in a lot of ways, the practice of yoga IS love. It's an expression of love for ourselves--we love ourselves enough to take care of our bodies and minds. But yoga is an expression of love for the people around us, too.

This is one of the reasons I don't like when yoga gets lumped in with spa services. Some people think that yoga is something they do only for themselves, a little luxury that makes them feel good about themselves. But the truth is your loved ones get a lot out of your practice, too. They see your example of self care. They see the radiant light that you exude in the minutes and hours after your yoga practice. You are more fun to be around, more patient, more kind, and more giving after your practice--and that makes it the best gift you can give to the people you love.

How did you celebrate Love Day?

A Yoga Story: Sofia

2011-02-12T06:01:00.000-08:00

Yoga discovered me a couple of times in my young life, but I was only truly captivated by its immense power within the last year. Growing up I was an extremely active kid: I was an avid gymnast, karate kid, skier, and softball player. After a couple of years of inactivity in high school, I discovered running and became fanatical in my pursuit. Running became my passion, my raison d'être, it was the sport I grew to love for its anxiety-reducing benefits and that wondrous runner's high experienced after a long, hard workout.

Upon entering college, I immediately joined the cross country and track teams and built my life around a schedule of running, studying and traveling with our team. Everything in my life at that time depended upon my ability to run, and when I developed stress fractures and other injuries early on in my running career, I knew that the sport was wreaking havoc on my body. Yet I was resolute in my belief that I needed running to de-stress: I had high anxiety levels throughout high school and college that I was incapable of controlling except through long runs.

During my injured periods a fellow runner on my team, Shannon, encouraged me to try yoga. With her encouragement, a few members of our team took classes together every once in aw hile. This class moves too slowly, I thought. I'm not even getting a workout! I viewed yoga as a waste of my time while my tight runner's hamstrings struggled through the simplest of poses. Yet I had been reading all about the benefits of yoga and knew a small dose of it couldn't hurt, so I took classes once every couple of months with the company of fellow runners during their injured periods. Yoga had found me early on, but I wasn’t yet ready to embrace it.

Upon graduating from college, I ended up landing a job at Lululemon Athletica, the high-end yoga and athletic clothing store that at the time was unknown to most New Yorkers. One of our job perks was unlimited access to yoga classes in New York City at any studio. Lululemon’s marketing scheme was smart: we'd wear the clothing, chat with the teachers after class, and spread the word about our growing corporate-yoga empire. I was still an avid runner at the time, fighting off injuries and training for half-marathons, but I knew I would find a way to fit in at least three classes a week, especially knowing they were at no cost to me. I worked the yoga classes in around my running schedule, being found once again by a normally pricey yoga habit that was handed to me in exchange for selling stretchy pants. I still wasn’t ready to catch the yoga bug just yet: I struggled through yoga classes, itching to leave early every single class. I still had that excess of nervous energy I couldn’t shake without running.

Two years later, after leaving yoga in the dust for the most part (save for a three month stint as a marketer for a local studio that in exchange gave me free classes), I found myself trapped inside my Brooklyn apartment for two months on crutches. I had developed a stress fracture in my right femur, leaving me on crutches that were nearly impossible to get around on in New York City. Sitting at home day after day, I had a great deal of time to reevaluate my so-called exercise-related “passions.” What did I love so much about running that I felt I couldn’t let go of? I liked the exhaustion after a tempo run. I liked the feeling of pushing my body to its perceived limits. I liked seeing marked improvements in something I put effort into. Why couldn’t I attain these good feelings through another form of fitness? And why didn’t I listen to my body and simply stop running when I was repeatedly being told that my body couldn’t handle the strain of the sport?

And then, when I was finally ready, I allowed yoga to find me. Or rather, I discovered the desire to practice once again, buried deep within, or simply underneath my bed amidst miscellaneous items where my old lime green Gaiam mat was collecting dust. I made the connection between body and mind: my body’s desire to stay active and healthy and my mind’s wish to lessen the anxious thoughts and overwhelming waves of emotions I experienced on a near-daily basis.

In my extreme all-or-nothing fashion I started buying every yoga deal I could find online and taking classes several times a week. If my body wouldn’t let me run injury-free, yoga would be my workout drug of choice, and I’d practice as often as I could. I also started writing more about my experiences since I’ve always felt drawn to the written word. Like the girl who finally comes around to that old guy in her life she thought she would never be involved with (this analogy works here – just bare with me), I gave yoga a chance – a real chance, one with vigor, dedication and readiness.

Since I’ve finally surrendered to yoga, a practice that repeatedly tried to captivate my spirit over the years, I have gained a renowned sense in the power of not only my body but also my abilities to make a dent in the world. I feel a new sense of physical strength that I never had attained from running – the exhausted yet calm sensation after a tough yoga class, and a renewed sense of energy and vitality to effect change in the most powerful of ways. My mind is calmer, and I am finally becoming – with much focus and doggedness – the calmer, more relaxed person I know I am destined to become. With body and mind finally aligned, yoga has taught me exactly what I am capable of in the present moment.

Sofia blogs at InsightfulAppetite.com.

Do you want to share your yoga story on Spoiled Yogi? Email me at spoiledyogi@gmail.com!

Yoga Book Club: Poser

2011-02-09T16:08:00.000-08:00

What makes a good yoga book? In my opinion, it's the same thing that makes a good yoga class: honesty, stories the audience can relate to, and humor in all the right places. And that's exactly what I found Poser: My Life in 23 Yoga Poses to be. The only thing that can improve upon the experience of reading a great book is reading it with a group of friends!

So obviously I was thrilled when my Twitter book club friends expressed an interest in the book. (Yes, I've already read it.. but I still intend to participate! And, no, I don't think it's cheating.)

If this is your first time tweet book clubbin' with us, here's how it works:

There are no rules, no time restraints, and no pressure!
Tweet the stuff that you find interesting at your leisure.
Include the #YOBC hashtag so the rest of us can find your tweet and respond!

It's as simple as that!

More on Poser:

There's a list of questions for reading groups here.

This video has very little to do with the book as far as I can tell, but I guess it's kind of funny ...

Mindful Monday: Oh, Now I Remember...

2011-02-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

Last week, I kept thinking to myself how silly I have been for not meditating regularly all these years I've been a yogi. I knew how beneficial meditation can be for managing stress, increasing focus, and overall health. And it just takes a few minutes!

Well, this week I remembered why I've never been able to stick to it: It's really hard! There are always other things I want to do instead of sitting there. When I make myself sit it, I just think of all the other things I could be doing instead. And then my nose itches. I think maybe I forgot to hit "Start" on my timer ... obviously I've already been sitting for 15 minutes. When I peek at it, I see that I had, in fact, only been sitting for 3... 5 minutes left. Damn!

What is wrong with me?

I'm not giving up, though. I know if I keep at it, it will get easier. Going into this week, I'm going to stick with 8 minutes of daily meditation (clearly, I have not graduated to 10).

I'm going to try a few things to clear my mind before I sit--like write down my to do list for the day and set it aside. I'm also going to do at least a 10-15 minutes of asana first to get into the right frame of mind and put the timer behind me so I can't look no matter how much I want to!

Ugh. Do you have any other tips?

Satya and the Evolution of Yoga

2011-02-05T07:34:00.000-08:00

Yoga's history is fascinating because associations with the practice have evolved and shifted so quickly in recent years. Let's look at the history of yoga--and perhaps more important--the perception of yoga.

Alone Time
At one time, the word yoga brought up the image of loin clothes and caves. It was all about getting away from society and giving up all earthly belongings, so one could meditate, reflect, and become enlightened.

Rebellion, Self Study, and Togetherness
And then came the hippies. The yoga of hippies was pretty far from the idea of ancient yogis meditating in a cave. It was about self-study and freedom from the social norms. The hippies in practiced in groups. (Didn't hippies like the idea of communal living, too?)

Beauty and Perfection
Ten or 15 years ago (give or take a few), yoga finally became an accepted part of American culture. It was added to gym group exercise class schedules and become synonymous with healthy lifestyle and self-care. Instead of associating yoga with loin cloths or smelly hippies, people began to associate yoga with spas, massages, and lavish retreats... Somewhere along we way, we got the idea that yoga practitioners should be impeccably healthy, flexible, balanced, calm, stress-free, beautiful... perfect! (Talk about a shift!)

Greenery & Activism
At about the same time, yoga students also became increasingly interested in activism--environmental issues, animal rights, human rights, and more. Ahimsa (non-harming) is the basis and it goes hand-in-hand with yoga as a healthy lifestyle. Yogis weren't just supposed to be beautiful and in perfect health, they were also supposed to be leaders in creating a more perfect and beautiful world.

Satya - Truth & Realism
Lately, I've noticed another shift. Where it used to feel like serious yoga students had to be a part of this idea of external and internal perfection, now it's becoming more and more accepted to admit your faults and ask for support and guidance. I'm not just talking about sassy yoga bloggers. Even seasoned yoga teachers are getting in on the act. In the November 2010 issue of Yoga Journal, veteran teacher Patricia Sullivan writes candidly about an injury she sustained because of her daily practice of headstand. Of course, teachers who are embracing new media write about their struggles on a daily basis. And you know what? We LOVE them for it!

Maybe it's because yoga has become so accepted in recent years. (Finally! There's nothing left to prove!) Maybe it's just the rise of online media and the fact that now we are all free to share our feelings about yoga more openly. (We'll be our own editors, thank you very much.) But it's pretty clear that yoga students don't need the practice to be all air-brushed and pretty to see it's value any more.

Yoga is a great tool to help us deal with life's challenges, but it's not a magical cure for everything and those of us who practice are no closer to perfect than anyone else. I hope we'll all look back at this time in history, and recognize it as the time we all got a little more realistic and honest about the practice of yoga.

Woof! Be Mine.

2011-02-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is just around the corner...

Mindful Monday: Upping the Ante

2011-01-31T11:55:00.000-08:00

Image: Flickr User Last Zolex

I actually meditated every single day this week! Here are a few things that I noticed:

1. Since I'm new at this and easily distracted, it's easier if I face the wall. That way when I can't stand it any longer and I have to peek, all I will see is a white wall. If I peek and see something shiny or colorful ... it takes a lot longer to recover and go back to my meditation.

2. Five minutes is a really REALLY long time sometimes--like when you're 5 years old or learning to meditate. Just think of all the precious five-minute spans I waste staring into a computer screen every day... It's kind of appalling.

3. I have felt happier this week than I've felt in a long time. I don't know if it's the placebo effect or what (I've been reading a lot about the magical benefits of daily meditation lately... but five minutes a day for a week hardly seems like long enough), but I've decided not to question it.

Next week, I'm meditating for eight minutes daily. My goal isn't to sit for long spans of time, but instead to notice the impact of a daily seated practice. However, it seems like five minutes is just long enough for me to get settled.

If you meditate, how long do you sit? Is your goal to sit longer?

Be Featured on Spoiled Yogi!

2011-01-27T18:27:00.000-08:00

There's nothing I love more than hearing how other people got interested in the practice of yoga, their first a-ha moments, and the thing that keeps them coming back to the mat time and time again. I get little glimpses into who you and what you practice from your comments, but I want to know more! And I'm sure I'm not the only one...

So this is what I propose:

Write a story about how you came to be a yoga student. Tell us all about the fateful day that you decided to pop into a class for the first time, and why you kept coming back.

Or if you're not the story-telling type, answer these questions:

This is my picture in one of my favorite poses. It's only fair.

1. What made you decide to take your first yoga class? Describe the experience.

2. Tell us about one of your biggest yoga a-ha moments.

3. Besides the teacher who is supposed to teach you yoga, who or what is your best yoga teacher? (Think unconventional teachers here... nature, your dog, your kid, your dentist...)

4. Where is the craziest place you've ever done yoga?

5. Describe your yoga journey in 3 words. (Yes, you may answer with ONLY three words, or you'll be hearing from me!)

Send your story or answers and a photo of you in your favorite pose to SpoiledYogi@gmail.com, and I'll feature you in a blog entry!

I can't wait to read your stories!

Young Does Not Always Equal Inexperienced

2011-01-26T16:07:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of experience being the youngest. I am the youngest in my family. I've been the youngest student in my class, the youngest intern, the youngest yoga teacher trainee, the youngest teacher... Being young has its advantages and disadvantages--particularly in the yoga community. The older students might smile at the youngsters--possibly envious that we got an early start on the practice, possibly envious that our backbends are deep and effortless (though, that's not always the case.) It's all fine and dandy until a youngster decides he or she knows enough the practice to share it with others.

When I decided to blog about my teacher training as a sweet and innocent 22 year old, I was kind of crushed when I received a critical email from someone I'd never met who was "sick and tired of these 20-somethings" who think they can teach something to someone--anyone!--for that matter. I'm still thankful to my editor who smiled and said, "Don't listen to them."

When I read the criticism of fashion-model-turned-yoga-mogul Tara Stiles following her recent story in the NY Times, it all came back to me. Of course, I expected the criticism about Stiles breaking from tradition, focusing on the physical benefits/weight loss, and wearing clothes that show her model-icious body (the scandal!)... but I was a little surprised by the collective attitude toward her age. I mean, come on! She's 29, not 16.

Image: NYtimes.com

In case you haven't been following, here's a sampling:

That someone so young, with so little training, but with a big megaphone due to her celebrity, is off training yoga teachers? Sounds like hubris to me. -- comment on YogaDork.com

And even with a pro-yoga business plan, the emphasis on youth and beauty puts such young teachers in a position where they don't have the time to naturally develop their practice to the place where they're really absorbed a lot of the wisdom that's come before and then really honestly decide that it's time to innovate. If they take this time, they will miss their marketing moment, and the lucrative contract will go to someone else. -- comment on ElephantJournal.com

Maybe one of these days a little light will shine on in her head and she’ll 'get it.' Probably not until she’s 40, but you never know. -- comment on FlyingYogini.wordpress.com

What's with all the age-ism when it comes to yoga teachers? Is it a jealousy thing--that they get to be young, beautiful, talented, AND successful that rubs people the wrong way? I just don't get it. Some young yoga teachers devote years of daily practice with their teachers (hours every day) and log more time on the mat that teachers twice their age. It's entirely possible that teachers like Tara Stiles (29), Kathryn Budig (28), and Alanna Kaivalya (30) have more experience teaching and more wisdom than older teachers, too. And thank goodness for them! And even if the younger up-and-coming yoga teachers don't have more experience, they're more relatable to a lot of people! I've studied with a lot of older, more seasoned yoga teachers ... and while they have lots of experience and knowledge to offer, I can't relate to their experiences at Woodstock or their contentious objector status during the Vietnam War. But here's the thing.... even though I can't relate to all of their teachings, I realize that I can still learn something from them. And I certainly don't go around questioning their teachings. That would be disrespectful, wouldn't it?

I admire Stiles for saying her teacher training wasn't up to snuff--many teacher trainings aren't. I admire her even more for choosing not to publicly disclose what teacher training that was (just because it wasn't what she was looking for doesn't mean it won't work for someone else). And I'm glad she's a successful teacher now with the opportunity to teach every single day if she wants to--because just think about how wise and amazing she's going to be in a few years!

For the record, I'm 27 ... and I've spent the last five years of my life (eight hours a day) practicing yoga, reading about yoga, writing about yoga, studying yoga, and pondering yoga. That's about 10,000 hours if you DON'T include my nights and weekends.

Introducing: Mindful Monday

2011-01-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

This is what I image prolonged meditation should feel like.. floating on a cloud... in a bathrobe..

In the last few days, it seems there have been little reminders to meditate everywhere I look...

Mindfulness Meditation Training Changes Your Brain
Meditation, Your Key to a Stress-Free Life
The #1 Health Habit You're Not Doing ... Yet

OK, Universe, I get it! Meditation can change your brain ... It will help you calm down, manage stress, and focus--not to mention a whole slew of other positive benefits! So, why is it so hard to commit to just a few minutes of quiet reflection every day? I don't know... It shouldn't be so difficult, should it? I'd like to think I can do ANYTHING for five minutes.

This week, I'm starting a daily meditation routine--not because I feel guilty, but because I want to see if it's really lives up to all the hype! (The last time I was able to meditate every day it was only for about 30 days, and I really enjoyed it.. but what if I could do it for 60?) I'll start with just 5 minutes a day, and I hope to build from there. Every Monday, I'll let you know what I'm focusing on and update you on my progress! Sound good?

Do you sit to meditate daily? Do you just sit in silence following your breath or follow a guide of some sort? Do you have a mantra? Do you use mala beads? What changes have you noticed in yourself after long stretches of daily meditation?

Cancer Recovery, Yoga Style

2011-01-24T08:01:00.000-08:00

Guest Post by Amy Annis, cleanspirityoga.com

In August of 2009, I was diagnosed with invasive lobular breast cancer during my first regularly-scheduled mammogram. It was completely unexpected and pulled the rug out from under my world. As yoga teacher who had consistently valued and promoted good health, it was a severe blow to my emotional psyche. Part of the road to recovery included much more than the nine month process of chemo, radiation, and surgery. That was critical to my physical body of course. But after that last radiation treatment wrapped up I began the process of caring for my emotional well-being, which is where the true nature of yoga revealed itself to me.

I began teaching in 2003, understanding that it provided me the opportunity to maintain my love of the practice as well as speak to my four young children about the connection of a healthy mind and body. I adored teaching and attended trainings whenever I could fit them in to my very busy, yoga-mama world but would often feel guilty and restless when I was away from the kids.

Fast forward to the cancer diagnosis, and, admittedly, I didn't practice throughout most of the chemo....I too sick (headaches and nausea) and too weak. I'll never forget the first Downward Dog after the second surgery. My arms wobbled and the lack of mobility in my left shoulder from the mastectomy rendered a pretty imperfect asana. And yet, as the breathing instinctively returned, there was a feeling of relief of being on my mat, a familiar place, knowing that my recovery was ahead.

What I did next was uncharacteristic. Cancer forces you a raw glimpse of your mortality. The benefit: a renewed desire to live my life at a different level. I put aside my feelings of mama guilt (all mamma's have it) and enrolled in a teacher training program at The Yoga Center of Minneapolis understanding that the 2 1/2 hour commute and the year of Sundays spent away from my family was a major sacrifice, both in time and in finances. Thank God for my husband, who I know thought I was a little crazy, not to mention realized pretty quickly that after a long work week he would be pulling single Daddy duty all weekend. Looking back, I think he was probably just so grateful for my survival that I could have told him I was going to India for 3 months and still received a feeble OK.

So there I was attending trainings every week and yoga became my new medicine. I would imagine that all of that chemo and drug that I reluctantly pumped into my body would release with my breath. My mentor, Monique, gently but firmly (and that's not an oxymoron in her case) didn't give me too many breaks or excuses why I could not do an asana. But she warned me that the emotions may present themselves during the hip openers, and sure enough I spent a few Pigeons head down weeping on my mat.

School unwittingly became an extension of my therapy. I gained a deeper appreciation for the culture and history of yoga. More than the Sutras themselves, but how they applied to my life and my practice. I'll ever have the eloquence of some of the great teachers who guide us on the Yamas and the Niyamas, but I feel as though the understanding of them, as well as the insight of a mother and a survivor, that I can speak of them in real world words.

Oddly enough cancer was a gift. One that I never wish to receive again, mind you, but it nonetheless forced me forward on many levels. The benefits of my newly created yoga community inspired me to take some huge leaps of faith. I re-discovered my love of writing and speaking, there is a deeper appreciation for my family who won’t disintegrate in my absence, and it was the springboard to take my dreams to the next level and develop my yoga retreat business on the beautiful Madeline Island.

There is much mention lately in the news as to the benefits of yoga in cancer patients. In fact, cancer patients may want to read the book Cancer Fitness by Anna L. Schwartz; it is very good. But in my journey of recovery yoga was much more than a traditional exercise. It healed my heart.

Amy Annis has taught yoga while raising a small army understanding that her practice not only gave her balance in a hectic life but also spoke to her children about the connection of a healthy mind and body. After a bout with crazy cancer in 2009, she decided to take her dreams to the next level and developed her yoga retreat concept on beautiful Madeline Island, WI. She also found her writing voice and recently launched her own blog. As a yoga mamma, wife, outdoor enthusiast, and dog lover she delights in life a little off balance. Lately, she is very grateful for hair. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.

Just Say No -- To Yoga Guilt!

2011-01-22T16:51:00.000-08:00

Image: Canada.com

When I first started practicing yoga, I had this idea of what a yoga student should be like. They're obviously health nuts who are incredibly fit, morally and ethically responsible, and have amazing self-discipline. Somewhere along the line I got the idea that yoga students should be, well, perfect. So I spent a lot of time feeling guilty about the fact that I, in fact, was very far from perfect. When classmates discussed their raw food diets or recent trips to an environmentally-friendly spa, I would be quitely (pardon the expression) sweating like a hooker in church. After a few years of yoga under my belt, I now know that this was really REALLY stupid.

Feeling guilty doesn't help us reach our health goals. It doesn't make us happier. And it certainly doesn't help us to change our habits or make us better, more balanced people. In fact, feeling guilty about the things that make you who you are is directly contradictory to the practice of yoga. Instead of feeling guilty about something, I'm trying to learn to accept it, admit that no one is perfect, and move on! It doesn't mean that I stop striving to be better. It just means that I stop beating myself up about being who I am.

Here are 5 things I'm choosing not to feel guilty about any more...

1. I am not the picture of health. I guess the most unhealthy thing I do is consume mass quantities of sugar. I'm a Southern gal that grew up on sweet tea ... and it goes straight to my thighs. However, I consider it as much a part of my culture as Krishna is to the ancient yogis and I will not (EVER) give it up completely. Don't even THINK about trying to talk me into it. Oh, I also love potato chips, and and I watch more television than really any person really should. But, this is all a part of who I am. And yoga teaches us to celebrate who we are in this moment, not some fake, idealized version of who we want ourselves to be in the future. So, there it is.

2. I do not meditate and/or practice every single day. My television habit could be partially to blame, but there are days when I'm simply not in the mood for all this yoga crap (yes, I did say yoga crap and no, I'm not sorry). It's usually just when I've had a bad day and, admittedly, need my yoga practice the most--but I'm not always rational enough to see that in the moment. I almost always remember why I love this practice so much the next time I get to my mat and realize I was crazy for skipping a day... which is punishment enough.

3. Sometimes, I'm not nice. Here's the thing about being human... It's not always pretty. Sometimes people are jerks, and yoga students are people, too. You get where I'm going with this? No one should expect you to be perfect just because you practice yoga. And those people who might expect perfection, like I did when I first started practicing, don't know much about yoga ... so screw them! (See? I told you sometimes I'm not nice!)

4. I hate reading ancient yoga texts. They're just so ... boring and hard to understand! I'd rather read a yoga memoir, magazine, or blog any day of the week. I learn better from my peers who write in normal, clear, easy-to-understand English. As of now, I see no reason to sit and torture myself with the Yoga Sutras when I can be inspired, educated, AND entertained by the works of a modern writer instead.

5. I like things. Shiny things, stretchy things, new things, old things, big things, little things... I just like things! I know, I know.. Shocker! And I like people, too (most of the time). So I'm never going to be like the ancient yogis who gave up all their material things and went to live in isolation in a cave somewhere. I keep aparigraha (non-grasping) in the back of my mind--which helps me come to a place of balance. But I believe I can can live a modern lifestyle and still reap at least some of the benefits of yoga, and that's good enough for me.

What things have you felt guilty about since you started practicing yoga, and how has the practice helped you to overcome your feelings of guilt?

Rise and Shine!

2011-01-20T12:52:00.000-08:00

I always wanted to be one of those people who could wake up before the sun rises and have a green smoothie, meditate, and hour-long yoga practice. What a great way to set the tone for a the day! Unfortunately, my body (or is it my mind?) doesn't think it's such a good idea. Every time I've tried it, I have a dialogue with myself that goes like this:

"What is that wretched noise? Why is my alarm going off at 5:30 in the morning? Am I supposed to go to the airport or something? Oh. I'm just supposed to get up and do healthy things. OK. I'll start with Savasana. A quick 30 minute Savasana.. then I'll get up and practice."

I hit the snooze button for the next hour.

"Ah... Screw it. I can do healthy things at 8 instead." (End scene.)

What can I say? I love to sleep.

But all of this is about to change. Tomorrow, I have to get my butt up and teach a yoga class at 6:30 am. That means I have to actually wake up at 5... in the morning! If everything works out as planned, I'll be teaching that early once a week regularly. (Gosh, I hope writing that doesn't jinx it.)

That said, I've got a few things to figure out. How do I become not only a cheerful, happy morning person, but a cheerful, happy morning person who can stand in front of people and guide them through Sun Salutations with a smile on my face?

I'm hoping maybe my faithful readers can help me out. Please share your morning yoga rituals with me. What do you love to practice first thing in the morning? What motivates you to get out of bed and get it on the yoga mat? What time do you go to bed at night? And what benefits have you noticed from getting up early and practicing first thing in the morning?

A little support would be nice, too. I can do this... Right?

So Hum: Self Expression through Yoga

2011-01-17T18:16:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Faern

Model: Sean Haleen

Writer: Erica Rodefer

It's already been a brutal winter in some parts of the country. In the last few weeks, I've seen my share of cold, snow, ice, travel delays, and my personal nemesis, days and days of seemingly endless Grey skies. It all leaves me feeling a little blah.

Many yoga teachers have told me that winter is a perfect opportunity for self-reflection—a chance to go inward and probe around a bit so you can learn more about who you are and the meaning of life and all that… The usual suspects for self-reflection are long held forward bends and restorative poses. But for me, as relaxing and soothing as these kinds of poses can be, they still seem like a kind of consolation prize. I like to move and build heat—preferably in the sunshine.

This image of San Francisco yoga teacher Sean Haleen is a reminder that no matter how dark and dreary things might seem in the moment, the sun is shining somewhere. He really does look like a sundial doesn't he?

Luckily, there are a few poses that always make me feel warm and cozy—even when it's cold outside. Sundial is one of them—when I practice it I can nearly feel the sunshine! Of course, Sun Salutations are another, more traditional way, to build heat in the body. Core strengthening poses like arm balances and Boat Poses (Navasana) bring new meaning to the phrase "put a fire in your belly."

What are some of your favorite ways to warm up with yoga in the coldest, darkest, winter months?

Faern is a yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Visit her website, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

P.S.
Would you like to take part in this project as a model? Please be in touch by emailing this address sohum.selfexpression@gmail.com and we'll send more information. If you are not in the Bay Area or planning a visit, do not worry, there are travel plans afoot, subscribe to the blogs http://www.faern-in-the-works.com and http://spoiledyogi.blogspot.com/ to keep in touch and get updates on travel plans"

8 Ways to Put the Fatshion in Yoga

2011-01-16T11:03:00.000-08:00

Editor's Note: I've gotten tons of requests from readers to talk about yoga fashion options for the curvy yoginis among us. Now, I've been called a lot of things in my day... but curvy is not among the most common, so I deferred to an expert on this one. My friend Anna Guest-Jelly from CurvyYoga.com was gracious enough to share her insights. Enjoy her guest post, and don't forget to add any of your own tips by commenting below! -- SpoiledYogi

8 Ways to Put the Fatshion in Yoga
By Anna Guest-Jelly

Anna Guest-Jelly, CurvyYoga.com

Yoga is for every body, right?

Tell it the major yoga clothing retailers.

I may rock the curvy party in yoga class, but looking cute while doing it is no easy feat. Some of the major yoga clothing companies (*cough*Lululemon) only go up to size 12. For sheer bottom-line reasons alone, this doesn’t make any sense. The last time I checked, the average American woman is a size 14, so these companies are missing out on a lot of curvy moolah. And, of course, from a yogic standpoint, only making clothes for people up to size 12 sends an unfortunate message that if you’re bigger than that then yoga isn’t for you.

Well, guess what I say to that?

Screw it--and embrace yoga fatshion! (Nope, that isn’t a typo.)

The great thing about yoga is you can wear whatever you want. If you’re in my class and you roll in in your PJs, that’s fine by me (as long as they’re not stinky, but that’s another story for another day). But if you want to up your curvy cute factor on the mat, here are eight ways to give it a go:

Look outside the fitness section of clothing stores. I’ve gotten quite a bit of my yoga outfits from the non-fitness sections of clothing stores. I look for clothes that are cute and easy to move around in (go ahead and give it the Down Dog test in the dressing room); if I find something in the wear-to-work section instead of fitness, that’s okay by me.
Shop online. It can be painful to scour the mall for plus-sized yoga clothes (or, really, anything). Shopping online gives you so many more options, and more and more places are offering free shipping. I’ve got a great list of places I like here; if you know another one, please send it my way! (Bonus: very few clothing items at these places require a co-signer to purchase.)
Determine what you need to feel comfortable: You don’t want to worry about your clothes during yoga class, so make sure you look for clothes that fit that bill. On a related note,
Don’t settle: If you hate your outfit or feel self-conscious about what you’re wearing, it may be harder to relax into your practice.
Accessorize: If you’re not loving your clothing options, you can always add in something that makes you feel fabulous. There are plenty of choices that won’t get in the way of your practice, including scarves and rings. As long as what you choose won’t clatter together (bangles) or put someone’s eye out (pointy ring), you should be fine.
Get Creative: If your pants have that stretch-out-too-quickly problem, try tights or a leotard underneath to avoid getting to know your neighbor too well too fast. If you’re worried about your boobs popping out and suffocating you during inversions, try a tight-fitting, high-necked tank (under another top, if you’d like).
Make Your Own: There’s no way I could do this because it literally took me six months just to figure out how to thread my sewing machine. But if you’ve got the skillz, put ‘em to work! (And then call me and let’s start a clothing line together!)
Remember How Curv-riffic You Are: Sometimes curvy clothes shopping can get a gal down, but don’t let it. More and more companies are making clothes for us every day. Keep giving your dollah bills to the ones who get it and girlcott the ones who don’t.

Moral of the story? Yoga fatshion doesn’t have to be a time-consuming, soul-sucking, body drama-creating endeavor. Figure out what makes you feel fantastic on the mat, and then wear it with all the curvy confidence in the world. After all, if our yoga practice teaches us anything, it’s that what we need most is already inside us. How we dress it up from there is up to each of our uniquely glamorous selves.

Anna Guest-Jelley is a bit of an anomaly: a curvy woman who practices and teaches yoga. Despite not dreaming of putting her leg behind her head (without going to the hospital, at least), she learns/practices/teaches yoga because of its transformative powers in her life. For more Curvy Yoga goodness, visit Anna’s website or connect with her on Facebook or Twitter.

Review: Blake BrodyIn-Studio Footwear

2011-01-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

If I tell you a secret, will you promise not to judge me?

About a year ago, I realized that the ball of my right foot was a little tender when I walked. Upon closer inspection, I was horrified (and a bit disgusted) to find out that I had a plantar wart! How could this be? I wear shower shoes if I take a shower in a public place... I am adamant about using my own yoga mat, and it's not like I walk around barefoot! Wait a minute ... I do walk around barefoot. Every time I go to a yoga studio, I leave my shoes on a outside the studio door (because it's a sacred space) and I wander around looking for a nice spot to unroll my mag. Just think of all the germs I encounter during that walk! How many other bare-footed folks had walked there that day? I guess it was only a matter of time.. I'm all bet
er now, but I never want this to happen again--to me or anyone else for that matter.

Luckily, there are products out there to diminish the risk. When I first heard about Blake Brody's In-Studio Footwear--a shoe meant to be worn ON your mat--I was skeptical. Sure, they're adorable vegan ballet flats, I thought, but there are reasons we practice in bare feet, right? As usual, I caved to the cute and agreed to try these bad boys out to see if they could be as functional as the website's description says they are. I was pleasantly surprised. Not only did the shoes provide extra grip for my feet on my holey, worn out yoga mat making standing poses more stable, it also offered a unique support for my feet unlike anything I'd experienced before. My feet are flat, and the arch support in the shoes reminded me to ground through all four-points of my feet. For some reason I can not explain, these shoes also made it easier to roll over my toes as I moved from Up Dog to Down Dog, which is something I've always had a little trouble with. The only negative I could come up with is that practicing in shoes that are so fitted does make it a little more challenging to lift and spread the toes. So when that's the practice, I'd recommend taking them off and putting them to the side (in a clean, dry spot, of course). But given the extra support, cuteness factor, and hygienic value I'd say they're well worth the $98 price tag (some styles go up to $135). Plus, wearing them reminded me of taking ballet class when I was little, so I'll give an extra bonus point or two for nostalgia. All in all, I think I might have stumbled upon the next trend in yoga fashion!

Read more about Blake Brody and her amazingly cute yoga shoes at blakebrody.com.

What do you think? Would you ever try in-studio footwear? Have you ever gotten a wart or Athlete's Foot or some other horrible foot ailment from a yoga studio? Would you admit it if you had?

The Science of Stress

2011-01-14T06:34:00.000-08:00

If you follow me on Twitter, you might already know that I recently signed up for Netflix and am currently enjoying my free trial. a few night ago, my husband and I watched a documentary called The Science of Stress. I learned a few things I wanted to share with all of you.

The documentary compared the stress humans experience with the stress other animals--monkeys, of course--face. Scientists have noticed a connection between hierarchical societies and stress. Meaning the most dominant monkeys have less peer-induced stress than than passive monkeys because, basically, the big guys pick on the smaller, weaker guys. We know that stress adversely affects the health of the monkeys in the study because the dominant monkeys live longer, have less build up in arteries, and are in overall better health.

The scientists in the documentary drew parallels (based on a different study) between the dominant monkeys and the people at the top of the totem pole in the office (the CEOs and upper management-types). The more power a person had in his office environment, the better his overall health.

I have a few issues with the research as it was presented. There has to be more at play here than just stress, right? Besides, don't we usually think of the top management jobs as the MOST stressful because of the huge responsibility and longer hours?

What I took away from it is this: 1. Stress drastically impacts our health and well-being, so it's important to find a way to manage stress (ahem, yoga). 2. Your outlook on life is more important than your career, environment, or station in life. As the scientist in the documentary said (and I'm paraphrasing here): You could be at the bottom of the hierarchy, but the captain of the company softball team. If you decide that's more important to you than your time in the office, you're playing by a different set of rules.

Besides yoga, how do you manage stress?

5 (More) Signs That You Might Have a Yoga Addiction

2011-01-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

1. You will buy anything—and I mean anything—with an Om sign on it.

2. You suddenly find yourself empathizing with that jerk that cut you off on the freeway. After all, he is a spark of the Divine, too.

3. You'd rather attend a yoga class than do other things you once did for entertainment, such as going to a bar or a movie.

4. You practice yoga awareness when you eat, talk, work, rest, and play.

5. When you finally wear a hole in your yoga mat you are so proud of yourself you show it off to all of your friends—like a yogic badge of honor.

How did you know when you'd become addicted to yoga?

Be sure to catch 5 more signs that you might yoga addiction tomorrow on my blog Top 5 Tuesdays at YogaJournal.com.

Hello, Light!

2010-12-31T08:12:00.000-08:00

Last week, I taught yoga to a very enthusiastic group of 5-year-old Daisy Girl Scouts (my niece's troop) in Tennessee. It was great fun! We hopped like frogs, soared like butterflies, stood like mountains, and giggled like, well, little girls. But I really wanted to give them a taste of what yoga really is, the deep underlying meaning into the practice. At the end of the class, I did my best to explain to them the meaning of Namaste in a way they could understand.

"It means that we all have a little shining light inside of us that connects us to each other. When we say Namaste, that little light is saying hello to the little light in other people around us." Err... It's kind of a hard concept to explain to little girls, I thought to myself.

I was thrilled by what happened next. One little girl looked at me with a smile on her face and beamed, "Hello, Light." Then, a few more chimed in looking this time looking from side to side at the other girls in the circle, "Hello, Light!" I was elated. They got it! And it didn't have to be so complicated, after all.

So, on the last day of 2010, I wanted to share this story as a reminder that while there's so much more to the practice than we sometimes even realize, there are also truths that are so simple they can be summed up in two words. My wish for the New Year is that we all reap the benefits of both the profound complexities of the practice and those sweet little nuggets of truth that are accessible to us all.

"Hello, Lights!"

What is All Levels Anyway?

2010-12-30T08:36:00.000-08:00

Image: Lululemon Athletica

Yesterday, I checked out a really cool yoga studio in Nashville, TN. I'm here staying with my mom as she preps to donate stem cells to my uncle who is fighting a battle with leukemia (more on that later). When I told my mom I was going to a yoga class she said, "What if I wanted to come, too?" She's never done yoga before so of course I wanted to encourage her! The website said the class was open to "all levels," so I told her she should come along. Ultimately, she decided against it.

It was a good decision.

Of course, I knew that an all levels vinyasa class might be a bit much for my middle aged mom with no yoga experience... But this class was HARD! It would have been a disaster if my mom had come.

It made me wonder how often that happens... Someone totally new to the practice of yoga decides to go to a yoga studio just to see what it's all about. He chooses an all levels class because he doesn't know where he fits in. He unrolls his mat... and WHAM! The teacher leads them through inversions, arm balances, and super hard balance sequences with very little discussion of alignment or instruction on how to get in and out of the poses. This would make any beginner feel confused, frustrated, and like yoga is definitely NOT for him. If my first yoga experience had been like that, I would probably never have gone back!

I don't mean to pick on Nashville. I've noticed that all levels classes at studios in San Francisco and other places I've practiced could be just as hard. It seems to depend on what kind of yoga studio (all levels at an Ashtanga studio is probably a lot different than an Iyengar all levels class) and the students that show up (after all, teachers try to tailor their classes to the students who are there and if only advanced students show up it might be silly to teach a level 1 class).

I'd love to do a little informal research here... Please share: What's involved in an all levels class at your home studio (and be sure to tell us where your studios is!) Should studio owners make more of an effort to explain what all levels means at THEIR studio? Or is it OK to leave it open-ended and teach who shows up?

What do you think?

Happiness is ...

2010-12-29T12:39:00.000-08:00

I picked up my new issue of Real Simple today, a magazine that always gives me great ideas. This issue's theme is all about happiness with the main feature story about how to be happier in the New Year. There's nothing ground-breaking here. It's in the ability to enjoy the little things that really makes our lives more joyful. As one reader wrote, "When I catch several green traffic lights in a row, I feel certain my day is going to be a good one." Everyone can relate to that. As yoga students, we already know the importance of taking joy in the little things: The amazing feeling we get from one good, deep breath or the radiant after-glow of a great practice session. It's too easy to forget, though. This is especially true this time of the year when we make promises to ourselves that at their core sound a lot like: "I'd be happier if only I could ... (lose 10 pounds, get a better job, run a marathon... pick your favorite resolution)."

I've noticed that I feel happier when I look around and see all the blessings in front of me--instead of pining away for something that I don't have. So my resolution this New Year is going to be to notice the little things that make me happy more often. Things like:

Seeing my husband lay on the couch with both the dog and cat curled up on top of him...and seeing the cuddle up with each other.

The first time I'm able to feel what an advanced pose feels like.

YogaJournal.com

Learning something new--like how to take a cool photograph + noticing how much beauty is in little things (see both in my photo below).

Getting an unexpected package in the mail.

Image: Flickr user Uzbeckistan

What little things have made you happiest in 2009?

Ice, Ice, Baby!

2010-12-18T08:55:00.001-08:00

Ice, Ice, Baby! by ejrodefer featuring a yoga activewear

Ho! Ho!--Holy Crap! How Am I Going to Survive The Holidays?

2010-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

I have a lot in common with Santa around the holidays. Well, actually, maybe just one thing: I have to travel--an INSANE amount--in a short period of time. (When I call it the East Coast Tour, I'm not exaggerating. BTW, it kicks off tomorrow.)

I also have something in common with the Grinch and Ebenezer Scrooge: I do NOT like it! Not one bit!

There's the incredible amount of time of sitting in one place during the drive. The awkwardness that comes with being someone's house guest for a little bit too long. (Can anyone tell me how to NOT offend family members who slave for hours preparing meaty family favorites because every year they manage to forget that I am a vegetarian?) Then, there's the impossible-to-avoid drama over which family gets the honor of hosting the festivities on the coveted day OF Christmas, and the guilt that follows by the side of the family that gets the pre- or post-holiday celebration. (Dear Family, Please understand that I can only be in one place at a time. When my yogic skills have advanced to the point that I am able to duplicate myself, you will be the first to know.)

It is just impossible to please everyone! Oh, and it's a pretty big challenge to fit any asana practice into the packed schedule of activities. But there are little ways to fit yoga into these busy days.

Here are a few tips I use every year:

Breathe. Obviously, this is the one that you don't even have to find a corner alone in a crowded room. Just pay attention to the inhale and exhale, and remember to be present.

Take Little Breaks. When you're camping out on someone's couch because all the guest rooms are filled with family members, it can be nearly impossible to find a moment alone. But it's completely necessary for your sanity. Take little walks. Shut yourself in the bathroom. Do whatever you need to do to re-center yourself for just a few minutes when you feel overwhelmed.

Stretch. If you can't shut yourself in a separate room by yourself for an hour every day for your asana practice, get a few stretches in whenever you can. Stretch and breathe. Breathe and stretch. This can be your yoga.

Bring Something that Reminds You of Your Practice. If you bring a yoga mat (or something else that reminds you of your yoga) in your suitcase, you'll think of you practice every time you sift through it to find your toothbrush. You might not always have time to take it out and use it, but if nothing else, it's a reminder that you will survive the traveling just like you survived the last time your teacher made you hold that Warrior I for more breaths that you thought you could handle.

Think of the Intention, Not the Impact. This one doesn't really have that much to do with yoga, but I had to include it because, well, every time you spend this much time with family it's inevitable that someone will say something rude that pushes buttons and hurts feelings. So your grandmother has pointed out the chicken pock scar on your face every time you've seen her since you were 11 years old and it drives you nuts.. or you dad thinks you look SO much better now that you've put a little extra meat on your bones (just what every girl wants to hear!)... Can you see that they are trying to show that they care even though it comes off as... well... the wrong thing to say? Try to look at the intention and let the rest roll right off your back.

How do you cope with the stress that comes with the holiday season?

Ask Spoiled Yogi

2010-12-16T17:17:00.000-08:00

Q: I was wondering if you could give me any suggestions for affordable yoga clothes. I love Lucy and Lululemon, but I cannot pay those prices! In addition, I would like to find something that is created ethically.

A: This is a great question. It can be hard to find functional, stylish yoga clothes that are reasonably priced. I'd like to think a big reason for this is that yoga clothing companies care about the same things you do--ethical business practices and environmental impact. That is a good thing, of course, but it can also drive up their costs making the clothes out of reach for a lot of people. And that's just not fair.

I have a few tricks, though, that I'm happy to share with you!

Check out Beebliss.com. (Full disclosure: I know the owner.) It has a big selection of cute yoga clothes that are ethically manufactured with sustainable fabrics. Beebliss.com does offer slightly lower prices than competitors on Alo, Hyde, and Beyond Yoga--three of my favorite brands. They also offer sales every now and then. (Get on the email list!)

Zobha is my other go-to brand. I know fair labor is important to the company, and they give back to the community through their work with charities. It is also one of the more expensive brands, but they put items on sale every once in a while, and these are huge markdowns. Lucy and Lululemon have sales like this, too! (It's the only time I buy!) If you have a popular size.. just make sure you're on their email lists and like them on Facebook so you can have first pick. :)

What do you think? Do any of you have other tips for getting the best bargains on stylish, ethical, sustainable yoga clothes?

If you have a question you'd like me to answer, comment below or email me at SpoiledYogi@gmail.com.

If I Owned a Yoga Studio ...

2010-12-14T13:57:00.000-08:00

... I'd have at least one free class a month. And when I say free, I mean FREE!, not donation-based or almost free. Why? Because people who would have never tried a class will show up. And we all know it only take a couple of classes to get hooked! And I think that would make the world a better place.

... I'd mop the floors between every class. I would not allow entrance to the next class until it is spic and span. I hate walking through puddles of sweat!

... I'd have free tea and lots of cozy couches in the lobby to encourage students to stick around, talk yoga, hang out, and make friends. A yoga studio is only as good as its community.

... Oh! And a library of great yoga reference books that my students could check out!

... I'd host a free monthly yoga book club.

... I'd offer free classes to anyone who is mayor of my studio on Foursquare. It would inspire healthy competition and get all the Foursquare-hooked kids coming back again and again.

... I'd offer free classes to the city's actual mayor, too. Because I think that would make the city a better place.

... I would sell chocolate in the boutique... And cupcakes... And hot chocolate in the winter.

... My teacher training program would have a yoga community service requirement. It would be a double-whammy because the more you teach, the better you get at it. And yoga should be shared with everyone, not just those who can afford it.

I think that's all. If you owned your own yoga studio, what would you do?

Review: Mondetta Performance Gear

2010-12-07T19:15:00.000-08:00

As you might know, I'm a bit of a yoga clothes and products connoisseur. I love trying new styles and brands. It's so exciting to see the creative and innovative designs each season. So, of course I was thrilled when Mondetta Performance Gear invited me to try some of their pieces! A yoga /active wear brand I'd never heard of!?, I thought. How can this be?

Radiant

I was even happier when I felt the high-performance fabrics--soft, supple, stretchy.. maybe even a little bit squishy (and trust me, that's a good thing!). The colors are bright and friendly. The fit? Fantastic. And the designs are inspired, out-of-the-box, and fashion forward.

I immediately fell in love with the long sleeved number pictured on the right. The print is super-cute, and it's the perfect layering piece for a yoga class or a quick jog on a chilly day.

Affluent

I'm also a big fan of the Affluent 2 Tank (left) because its design is unlike anything else I've seen. It has a unique neckline (a mixture between a V-neck and a square neck) with gathers. It's nice and long so it offers full coverage and I love the feminine A-line fit--just make sure you tuck it in before you invert! Did I mention how SOFT the fabric is?

However, I might be most impressed by the company's efforts to make the world a better place. As a yoga student who wants to do as little harm as possible, it's important to me to support companies that make an effort to do the same. The Mondetta Charity Foundation provides assistance to children in East Africa who have either have AIDS or have been orphaned by the disease. MPG pays for the administrative costs so all the money the foundation raises can go straight to the cause. Plus, one percent of every garment MPG sells goes to the foundation.

Check out the rest of the MPG line here. And read more about the MPG Foundation here.

Have you ever tried MPG clothes?

I wanted to blog tonight but ...

2010-12-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

... Penny had other plans.

Eye Pillows: Not Just for Savasana!

2010-12-05T15:29:00.000-08:00

Image: Carolman.net

A soft, cool eye pillow is my absolute favorite yoga prop. For me, an eye pillow offers instant relaxation by providing a little bit of pressure on the Third Eye point (that's the pressure point in the middle of the forehead). I also love that eye pillows are often scented with lavender or other soothing aromas. Plus, they're small enough to throw in your purse and take with you anywhere.

But if you think eye pillows are just for helping you relax for five minutes at the end of yoga class when you're in Savasana (Corpse Pose)--Think again! Eye pillows are extremely versatile if you simply know how to use them.

Sleep Aid. For all the same reasons an eye pillow helps calm the mind during Savasana and restorative poses, it also helps when you've got trouble quieting the mind to sleep. I almost always drift off to sleep with an eye pillow over my eyes (mostly because my room isn't dark enough!), but it helps me let go of the day and drift off to sleep.

Extra Support (When You Need Just a Little). Maybe your knees are just a few inches away from the floor when you sit in Sukhasana (Easy Pose) or your thigh is just an inch away from the floor in Pigeon Pose. There's not enough room for a block and it can take a long time to fold a blanket to give you the support you need. An eye pillow is the perfect solution.

Shoulder Soothers. If you're lucky enough to have two eye pillows try putting one on each shoulder the next time you feel tension set in. The light weight of the flax seeds and the soothing lavender will work together to remind you to soften and gradually melt the tension away.

What's your favorite use for an eye pillow?

What Not to Wear: Yoga Teachers

2010-12-03T17:52:00.000-08:00


Not meant to be an example.

1. Cleavage. I don't mind a little cleavage peeking out of a flirty little black dress, but for yoga teachers this is a big no-no. As a teacher, your job is to help your student shift his focus internally. And that might be hard for him to do when your goods are on display.

2. Too Tight or Too Loose. See explanation with no-no Number 1. This is not the place to let it all hang out.

3. Body Hair. Some teachers can get away with this one.. Like men (which is SO not fair.) Or yoga teachers from foreign lands where shaving is not the cultural norm... But on the rest of us... body hair just looks kind of icky. If you don't feel like shaving your legs, please just choose full length pants over capris or shorts--especially if you know you give a lot of up-close-and-personal adjustments.

4. Funky Feet. I have been guilty of this one a time or two.. You don't have to have perfectly pedicured toes for every yoga class, but polish chipping off or thick calluses can be a distraction. Oh, and no toe nail fungus... EVER!

5. No Personality. I think one of the biggest fashion mistakes a yoga teacher can make is not letting their personalities speak through the way they look. A lot of teachers buy basic yoga pants and tops, and just throw them on and head to the studio. But if they had an office job, they might put a little more thought into their accessories. Don't let the yoga clothing companies dictate your style! Once you have enough basics think of creative little touches you can add to your look that lets your personality shine--scarves, jewelry, wraps, bags, and leg warmers will all make your look more interesting and unique in a totally appropriate way!

What is the worst fashion mistake you've ever seen a yoga teacher make?

Must... Touch... TOES!

2010-12-01T11:03:00.000-08:00

Image: WholeLiving.com

You know that student in a beginning yoga class that can't touch her toes? The one who the yoga teacher smiles knowingly at as she advises to relax and soften ... But you see this look of frustration in the student's eyes as she grits her teeth, furrows her brow, and tries to force her hamstrings to open because, by God, she IS good at this no matter what that teacher says and she WILL touch her toes if it's the last thing he does!!? Sometimes determination looks a lot more like constipation... and this kind of determination causes injuries and wrinkles, too. It's not worth it.

I hate to admit it, but even though I know better, I'm a lot like that student these days. I'm not trying to force my hamstrings open (I've already learned that lesson), but I'm trying with all my might to make other things happen in my life. The problem is, the harder I try, the more tense, tight, and challenging everything gets (like those stubborn hamstrings). And, as we all know, forcing is no way to approach a challenge on the yoga mat or in life.

On the mat, the answer is to stop judging, soften, back off the stretch, and just let the flexibility come organically when the time is right. I'm sure that's probably the right answer in life, too, but I wouldn't know because I can't get past the struggle to find out what would happen if I just chilled the F*&@ out! It's much harder to apply yogic principles to your life ...

So... that's my meditation for the week (and possibly for the rest of my life). Trusting, letting go, not trying so damn hard.. and, hardest of all, allowing all my judgments to float on by... Where I am right now is exactly where I'm supposed to be, and no amount of reaching will bring my toes closer to my fingertips. Obviously, there are lessons for me right now in this moment, and if I keep trying to move past them and on to the next thing before I'm ready I'll be stuck here forever.

Just in Time for Thanksgiving: A Yogic Feast!

2010-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

Wild Turkey

Wild Turkey Yoga Pose

taniabondyoga.co.uk

Fancy Thanksgiving Gravy Boat

Fancy Thanksgiving Gravy Boat Pose*

*Do not attempt directly after Thanksgiving dinner.

Festive Pumpkin Pie

Festive Pumpkin Pie Pose

Flickr User: YogaMama.co.UK

I hope you all have a great holiday! I'm thankful for each and every one of you!

Top Dogs and Their Yoga Humans: A Collective Lesson in Living in the Now

2010-11-22T08:42:00.000-08:00

I love my furry friends. They teach me SO much about life and yoga. How to be content, how to love unconditionally, how to be present ... I could go on.. The point is, my animals make my life better.

As you might already know one of my hobbies is stalking--I mean, reading about--other yoga students and teachers on the web to glean as much inspiration as possible. It's obvious that I'm not the only yogi who gets schooled by her pets. So I thought I'd pull some of the best yoga + dog writings I could find online and share them with you in time for Thanksgiving. Maybe it will make you want to give a few extra table scraps to the pup you love!

Image: Gwen Bell

1. Dog: Redford
Human: ElephantJournal.com Founder Waylon Lewis
Breed: Rescue Mutt

Waylon is thankful for: "My puppy, because he’s cute and listens to me most of the time, and because he teaches me more about patience and myself than anyone except my guru, Trungpa Rinpoche, or my guru, Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, or whatever girlfriend happens to be putting up with me, or not, at any given time."

Read more here.

2. Dog: Scarlet
Human: Meredith LeBlanc
Breed: Rescue Pug

"Scarlet, our Pug, has been a huge catalyst for change in our home. Her enthusiasm and joie de vivre is contagious. Every moment to her is worth savoring and she is totally right. We'd kind of forgotten that until she moved in with us."

Read more here.

3. Dog: Ashi

Human: Kathryn Budig
Breed: Puggle

"She knows what is important in life: good food, and lots of it. Getting excited about the smallest things like the phone ringing. It means someone interesting is on the other line. Most importantly, good love and the ability to give and recieve it all day long."

Read more here.

Image: cyndisphere

4. Dog: Leroy
Human: Cyndi Lee
Breed: Chocolate Poodle

"Leroy and I went to the park yesterday but when I started turning right to leave, he pulled hard to go left. He is a stubborn poodle so I said, “Okay, we can walk around the fountain that way today,” and to the left we went. Where there was a huge crowd gathered around and lot of buzzing conversations. Then I saw what was going on — there were literally hundreds of boxes sitting on the ground under the big famous arch at the end of Fifth Avenue. Every box was wrapped in a coral colored cloth with a bow on top — a Japanese kind of wrapping thing. It looked amazing and beautiful. People were all excited and taking the boxes. I looked around to see if it was a giveaway from some big company like Revlon or something but, no. No big promotional thing happening. So I thought, I’ll take a box, too. I picked one up and then I thought, “No. I don’t want this. I don’t want more stuff.” So I put it down and started to walk away and then I saw a tiny sign that said:

EMPTY IS NOT EMPTY. FULL IS NOT FULL."

Read more.

5. Dog: Schmutzie
Human: Dave Romanelli
Breed: Rescue Toy Poodle

"Schmutzie's training doubled as a personal growth seminar. And Schmutzie was no less than a furry sort of spiritual companion. In order to get to a point where I could walk Schmutzie without a leash, I learned that I needed to practice pulling my mind out of downward spirals of negative thinking; to prevent my mind's foolish foolish scampers into dark, foggy reals; to quell my mind's ADD-driven spastic leaps from thought to thought. Only when my mind stabilized and relaxed would Schmutzie truly respect me."

Excerpted from Yeah Dave's Guide to Living' in the Moment. Click here to read more.

And, of course, I am most inspired by my sweet rescue mutt Penny and cute, deaf kitty Gracey.

5 Things My Dog Taught Me about Yoga

5 Things My Cat Taught Me about Yoga

What lessons have you learned from your furry friends?

Spoiled Yogi's Holiday Gift Guide

2010-11-21T15:39:00.000-08:00

What do you get for the yoga student who has everything? It might seem impossible to get your loved one something you know he'll love if you know he already has the mat and all the fixin's (that means props, clothes, etc.). Here are a few fabulous presents for the yoga student who only seeks presence. (Get it!? I know, I'm hilarious, right?)

1. Infinity Scarf. Perhaps your yoga-obsessed friend already has two dresser drawers so full of yoga clothes that she can barely shut them. (Not that I know anyone like that...) She could probably still use a few things to help her stay warm and stylish to and from class. My favorite accessory of the season? The infinity scarf! It gives you the look of a trendy cowl neck sweater but with a lot more diversity! They're warm. They're cozy. And they can double as an eye covering during Savasana! I like this one.

2. Namaspray. Most yoga students have their own yoga mat for sanitation reasons--communal mats have been known to spread unpleasant things like Athlete's Foot and plantar warts. Personally, I'm not that excited about smushing my Third Eye into my own funk either, which is why I love the mat cleaner Namaspray. It disinfects, smells great, and it's the perfect size for a stocking stuffer.

3. Meditation Mala. This is my newest obsession. A mala is stylish as well as functional. I love my Tiny Devotions mala because you can pick your stone based on a virtue you want to cultivate (ie. balance, communication, love)

4. Local Yoga Studio Gift Card. This might be the best gift you could possibly give a yoga student. And it's SO easy. Just find out where she practices, give them a call, and you're done! A month of unlimited yoga is pretty much the holy grail of yoga gifts if you really want to impress. Otherwise, just pay for a couple of classes and you'll be golden.

5. Online Subscription. What if your yogi is so remote there are no studios close to them? There are a ton of online yoga video instruction subscriptions that will give him the feeling of being in a class from the comfort of his own home! I like YogaGlo, Yoga Vibes, and iHanuman.

What's on your wish list this year?

What Does Your Favorite Pose Say About You?

2010-11-16T16:59:00.000-08:00

Standing Poses
You love to stand tall, with your feet grounding into the earth and the crown of your head reaching up toward infinity. This might mean you're naturally a grounded person. You are firm in your beliefs and convictions, but open to the limitless possibilities in life, too.

Backbends
You're a lover, not a fighter. Your friends might describe you as vulnerable, real, open, loving, compassionate, and maybe a little emotional, too. You let your heart lead the way--even though sometimes the path is not comfortable. Your personality is energetic, bubbly, and warm.

Twists
If your favorite pose is a twisting pose, it might mean you that your body needs more fiber (just kidding!). But twists are great for digestion! They are also cleansing and healing. Not to mention, they make your back feel great. If you love twists you might be fun-loving and adventurous, too.

Forward Bends
Forward Bends are soothing--and they're also great stress-relievers. If your favorite pose is a forward bend (this includes Child's Pose and Downward Dog), you are likely a well-rounded yoga student. You take your practice seriously, and use it as a tool to find your center. You might be even-tempered, studious, and smart.

Arm Balances
Arm balance lovers tend to be playful and a little bit sassy. If you're one of them, you like testing the limits and feeling strong, but you aren't scared to fall on your face every now and then, too. You're also confident, stubborn, and you don't back down from a challenge.

Balance Poses
When it comes to Tree Pose, Eagle Pose, and Half Moon Pose -- people either love them or hate them! If you love them, it could mean that you're either a naturally balanced person or a person who has improved their balance through yoga. Either way, you enjoy teetering on the edge, testing your equilibrium, and you feel triumphant on days that you feel solidly rooted into the ground. There's also a good chance that you have a great sense of humor (because it's hilarious when you fall out of a balance pose).

Inversions
Inversions are the king and queen of yoga poses. If you love inversions, you might be of noble blood yourself! But you rule with understanding, compassion, and vitality. Inversion lovers are also (so I'm told) very crabby if they aren't in a place that allows them to go upside down--but other than that, they're pretty nice. You might be a little quirky, unusual, and fun.

Savasana
Aaaahh.. Savasana. Perhaps the most relaxing pose of all. If Corpse Pose is your favorite, it might mean you need more rest, relaxation, and quiet time in your busy life! Or it could just mean that you love the gratifying feeling of knowing you did your yoga practice and love lingering in the after-effects.

Of course, it's important to note that most of us have more than one favorite pose, or our pose combines two or more categories (i.e. Downward Dog is kind of a forward bend and kind of a standing pose)... It's also important to note that I just pretty much pulled the above generalizations out of my ass (just for fun!). Was I right? What's your favorite pose, and what do you think it says about your personality?

5 Reasons to Pamper Yourself

2010-11-15T17:30:00.000-08:00

'Tis the season... But before it gets into full swing and you find yourself braving lines at the mall, shaking your head at your credit card bills, and worrying about you'll wear to the obligatory office holiday party give yourself a little love. Need an excuse? I'll help you out! Here are 5 Reasons to Pamper Yourself!

1. You work hard. You give so much to other people in your life. Take care of yourself. Re-fuel so you'll have more to give and you can continue to make the world a better place.

2. Just think of all the amazing things you're missing while you're zooming around from Point A to Point B! Slow down. Look around. This is your life! Are you enjoying it? Do something that makes you feel vibrant!

3. If you don't take care of yourself, who will? As an adult, you're the only one who can set priorities and make sure you're healthy, strong, and happy. Your mom would approve!

4. It's easy! It doesn't have to be expensive or even time-consuming. Take a breath. Ask yourself, "What do I need in this moment to be inspired, motivated, and feel good about life?" Maybe it's a few minutes on the yoga mat or meditation cushion, to curl up with a book in the bathtub, or a night out with the girls. Don't be too busy to take care of yourself.

5. Set an example for your loved ones. You want them to pamper themselves every now and then, right? Show them how it's done!

When was the last time you pampered yourself?

Meditation Tools

2010-11-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

This is what I look like when I'm trying to meditate. Do I look calm? Serene? Focused?

Yeah, right!

On the inside, it's a different story. Anyone who has attempted to meditate knows how hard it can be to sit there and calm your mind. I've always tried to focus on my breath, and occasionally a simple mantra. But it doesn't take long for my mind to start spinning into stories... I re-live conversations I've had in the past, thinking of what I should have said. I think about what I'm going to say next time. I think about my grocery list or my overdue library books. You know, all kinds of really annoying stuff that could easily drive a person bananas.

But lately, I've been experimenting with meditating with a mala. I have a gorgeous meditation mala by Tiny Devotions with a turquoise bead meant to enhance communication, healing, and balance. (All things I can use more of in my life right now!) I've been wearing it as a necklace to remind me of my meditation practice during the day as I run errands and do chores. But it's also been a useful guide to help me focus on a mantra (I've been using So Hum) as I sit to meditate. Instead of sitting there restlessly until my kitchen timer beeps at me, I just keep going until I've been around the mala once, twice, or three times (more if I have the time!). And it keeps my mind (and my fingers) just busy enough to allow me to begin to settle by the end of my practice.

Do you use a mala for meditating? What's your mantra? Do you have any other meditation advice?

Don't Fail Miserably, Fail Joyfully!

2010-11-10T07:26:00.000-08:00

When I first started practicing yoga, I'd look around to see if anyone in class noticed when I lost my balance in Tree Pose or brought the wrong foot forward in Warrior 1. I was embarrassed when my teacher corrected a mistake or even offered an informative adjustment. Great!, I'd think to myself. Now everyone knows I suck at this!

But somewhere along the line, I realized that it's the failures that teach me the most and shape who I am as a yogini and as a person. No one comes out of the womb able to do a Funky Pincha Mayurasana. Advanced postures take thousands of failed attempts (millions for some of us) before you get the hang of it. And guess what? My philosophy on my yoga mat is to fall on my face as often as possible, and I laugh when it happens because I know it's just a matter of time before I nail it! Maybe after I've failed to meditate for the 4,559th time, I'll finally be able to quiet my mind. Maybe after I make a fool of myself in front of yoga class for the 1,598th time I'll actually start to look like a real teacher up there. Maybe after I pitch story idea to an editor for the 552nd time, someone will take a chance on me.

One thing's for certain, you never know until you try -- and when you fail you really haven't lost anything at all.

This is the most valuable lesson I've learned from my yoga practice. Failing is not just OK, but it's awesome. And even though it's hard sometimes, when it happens, you should delight in it because it's just a necessary step to get you where you're headed.

BTW, the following video is my favorite yoga failure on Youtube! This woman is committed, and she knows how to laugh at herself. (We've all been there--and that's why it's so funny!)

Yoga Book Club

2010-11-08T15:56:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by Bob Weisenberg's interview with author Lucy Edge over on Elephant Journal. I tweeted about it and--no surprises here--I found out that I wasn't the only one.

So here's the deal. We've formed a little Twitter yoga book club! And I'd love for you to participate! If you want to read along, just make sure you add #YSDO to your tweets. We'll check in with each other on the weekends for discussion. (And of course, if you're not on Twitter, you can still read with us, just comment your thoughts below.) Who's in?

So Hum: Self Expression through Yoga

2010-11-07T07:19:00.000-08:00

Yoga doesn't just happen on the yoga mat. If you're a yoga student, your practice goes with you during your commute, at the dinner table, and, yes, even when you're waiting for the train. Just close your eyes, take a deep breath, and Voila! Yoga! In fact, if you just broaden your definition of yoga a bit, there's a lot more yoga happening out on the streets than in yoga studios. I love seeing people practice in unconventional places.

As a yoga teacher, I can tell a lot about a person by watching their poses—their body's strengths and weaknesses. But I still think I can tell more about the essence of the person when I run into them on the sidewalk. People's personalities really shine through their choice of clothing, accessories, where they spend their time, and how they present themselves. Since yoga is really all about letting that essence, your authentic self, shine through into everything you do, I thought it would be fun to combine yoga, fashion, culture, and art.

Every month, we'll feature one stunning fabulous photograph of a yoga student practicing in a place and wearing clothes that she feels represents her true essence.

I can't think of a better way to kick off the project than with San Francisco yoga teacher Janet Stone. Urban chic meets feminine grace in her vinyasa classes in the legendary Castro District in San Francisco—a part of the city that's a mecca for self-expression!

Come back often to see more inspiring yogis practicing yoga their way.

Oh, and we're looking for fabulous, fashionable, yoga models who are interested in being a part of our project! All you need is an idea of how yoga helps you to express your essence and a willingness to be photographed doing your favorite pose. Email Faern at faernworks@gmail.com if you'd like to participate!

Faern is a yoga practitioner and photographer in San Francisco. Visit her website, follow her on Twitter, or like her on Facebook.

How to Find the Perfect Yoga Top

2010-11-05T17:02:00.000-07:00

Pictured: Benita Tank by Devi (Beebliss.com)

A great yoga top will offer style and support in the yoga studio and in your life. When you have the right top, you can wear it for all kinds of athletic pursuits from running to dancing. Wear your top as a layering piece under a sweater, with dangly earrings and a great pair of jeans, and you're ready for a trip to the coffee shop or even a night on the town. The possibilities are endless!

But with so many yoga clothing brands and styles out there, choosing just one new yoga top can be a daunting task. Here are a few things to think about before you begin your search.

1. Know Your Body. When you're in the market for a new yoga top, you can save yourself a lot of time by knowing which parts of your body you want to emphasize and de-emphasize.

Big chest. Look for supportive styles with thick straps and full coverage. If you're busty, it's important to take your top for a test drive in Downward Facing Dog and Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend). If the top holds you in and makes you feel comfortable in these poses it will probably work for you!
Bigger in the middle. If you feel self-conscious about your tummy area, choose a style that emphasizes your smallest part (usually the ribcage underneath your bust) and floats away from the body as it approaches your waist.
Small chest. If you have a small chest you've got an advantage in shopping for yoga tops. You can probably pull off light to medium supportive tops like spaghetti strap tanks or halter tops. But if you want your top and bottom half to look more balanced, try wearing a brighter colored top with a darker colored pair of pants, capris, or shorts.

No matter what your body type, look for a yoga top that will be long enough that you won't feel exposed when you're poses like Downward Facing Dog or Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend). There's nothing more distracting than having to constantly tug at your top to make sure you're not mooning the person on the mat behind you!

2. Know Your Colors. Yoga tops come in many different colors from basic to bright, so it's important to find colors that match your skin tone and your personality. If you have a larger-than-life personality and love being the center of attention, you might feel comfortable in a bold color or print. However, if you want to get the most bang out of your buck, choosing a solid or neutral color might allow you wear your top more often or mix and match it in more ways.

3. Know Your Lifestyle. Are you planning to use your top just for yoga? Or do you want a piece you can use for other activities, too? If you want your top to double as a running top, you'll want to find one with wide straps and a supportive built-in bra. If you want to wear it out on the town, to the grocery store, or other day-to-day tasks the appearance of your top might be as important as the functionality.

What are your tips for finding the perfect yoga top? Comment below!

Luon the Musical!

2010-10-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

Our friends at Lululemon created a musical touting their stretchy fabric, luon.

luon. the musical from Andrew Michael Dolgin on Vimeo.

I'm conflicted on this one. What do you think? Is it funny? Hip? Weird? Cheesy? Or are they trying just a little too hard?

Watch Me Do Yoga

2010-10-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

For me, yoga has always been about monkeying around! I just get on my mat, and I play. I think: Can I make this shape? Yes, but not without falling over. Can I stand up if I do this? Nice try! Not today. I approach my asana practice as an experiment--a game even--and I usually can delight in the outcome. Yes, I know that mindfulness, meditation, philosophy, history, therapeutics, tradition, and so much more is important, too.. but if I'm really being honest with myself, I like to practice the physical yoga because I think it's fun.

It's a childlike approach, and that's what I love about it! (And if you don't like it, just remember: I'm rubber and you're glue. And also, Na-na-na-booboo! So there!)

Children are amazing teachers. They look at the world with awe, and see limitless possibilities everywhere. Personally, that's the attitude I strive for when I get on my mat. I'm working toward finding that attitude in the rest of my life, too.

A couple of weeks ago, I got a children's book that reminded me of all of these things. Watch Me Do Yoga (2010, Rodmell Press) is a darling book illustrated and written by Iyengar teacher Bobby Clennell that beautifully captures the child-like spirit of exploration and joy that practicing yoga can elicit. Children will love it because of the cute illustrations and the many invitations to mimic animals and nature. Parents will love it because it provides a fun and creative way to spend quality time with their children. I loved it because it reminded me to appreciate the little, simple things--something that kids do so naturally.

What's your favorite children's book?