Living Well Is Eating Well September 29, 2011

What we place on our plates, in our bowls, and in our glasses is a direct reflection of the quality of health we posses, as well as the quality of life that we live.  In this fast paced world we are lured in on every street corner to surrender to that made to order meal.  Or, we become convinced that we need that latte, and scone to get through the afternoon slump.  I’m in the boat with you….the staff at our local Starbuck’s knows me very well; hence the title chubby yogi.   

In this past week I watched the movie Forks Over Knives.  It was recommended to me from two people who I value within the same week.  Now I feel it appropriate to share the message with all of you.  This movie really sent home the message that our health, and quality of life is ultimately up to ourselves.  If we have children it is our responsibility to in steel healthy eating habits, along with a healthy lifestyle choices.  The other message that I got from this movie is that it’s never too late to begin….no matter you goals, or your situation.  There are no magic potions, except making healthy choices that nourish your body, and eventually your spirit. 

I highly recommend you watch this movie…it’s not filled with a lot of hype, or scare tactics….just facts of what is, and what could be.  I rented it on Amazon for $3.99 (7 day rental).  I hope that you take the opportunity to watch this film, and I wish for you the best of health, along with all the  enjoyment  life has to offer.

Make The Steps You Take More Meaningful September 27, 2011

With Fall truly upon us what a wonderful time to get outside to indulge in nature’s cooler, crisp days.  A walk around the park, your neighborhood, or a local lake sounds like a perfect escape at anytime of the day.  Typically when people go for walks there is usually some combination of a music player, a friend to talk to, and possibly a cute doggie tagging along on their leash.  This sounds like a pleasant arrangement….getting exercise, taking in the tunes, spending time with that special someone, while having your furry little buddy tagging along by your side.

However, what if you could take those 20-30 minutes and make them even more meaningful for yourself?  How is this possible you might ask? Well, it’s known as walking meditation.  Yes, you can meditate as you walk.  In fact, such a meditation can be possible for almost anyone at anytime.  It’s not necessary to have a sacred space, or a special time…you just need to bring awareness to every step you take.  It is truly that simple. 

During a walking meditation you have to maintain some awareness to what’s happening around you, but the goal is to move most of your awareness inward towards the actions of your body.  First begin with your steps.  Feel the action of the foot and ankle.  Slowly move your awareness up your body towards the calves, knees, thighs, pelvis, torso, arms, shoulder, neck, head and breathe.  Notice how the body moves forward; working in opposition with every extension of the legs, swing of the arms, and sway of the torso.

Then take notice of your gait, or length of steps.  Are they even, or are they different?  The goal is to be aware, not critical.  After body awareness has been established see if you can notice any sensations happening.  Maybe an article of clothing brushing against your skin, or a cool breeze working in unison with the sweat developing on your brow.  Also, notice how you’re feeling.  Once again, not being critical just simply taking notice.  During times when I’m feeling tension, or stress with each step I repeat to myself slowly; “All things have a beginning, and an ending.  Everything is, and will be alright.” 

Lastly, take in the happenings around you.  What do you see, hear, smell, or touch?  How does that make you feel more connected to your surroundings?  How does that make you feel more connected to yourself?  Remember any form of walking is wonderful for your body, but a walking meditation is a simple way to unplug from the worries of the world as you take a little time to do something meaningful for yourself simply by taking each of your steps with awareness.

Namaste

For more information on this topic visit: http://www.wildmind.org/walking/overview

Notes From The Students September 26, 2011

“Ericka is a wonderful yoga teacher. I’ve taken yoga for ten years and she’s easily one of my favorite teachers.  Her style is unique as are her classes.  They are never the same. The poses might be ones you’ve done for years but the way she structures and choreographs her classes makes them fresh and new and always fun.  She is a wonderful blend of empathetic and patient with new students and yet interesting and challenging for long timers. Yoga would be infinitely more popular and accessible if there were teachers like her out there.”

–Denise

Sunday Inspiration 11 September 25, 2011

“What lies behind us, and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

YOUYOGA Is Not Just A Concept….It’s NOW A Yoga Space September 20, 2011

Yes!  It has happened, and we couldn’t be more excited.  YOUYOGA has been given the opportunity to offer yoga classes in its very own space in Overland Park, Kansas.  YOUYOGA  will be sharing a variety of classes including Chair Yoga, and Gentle Yoga.  Please check class descriptions, schedule, and pricing for further details.  Remember at YOUYOGA our goal is to offer classes that are student centered.  It is our pleasure to be a part of your practice, and we enjoy having the chance to enhance our students, as well as ourselves as individuals, while being a part of a yoga community that holds no judgement, or expectations.  Everybody is welcomed at YOUYOGA…..just bring your curiosity, and allow the possibilities to unfold.  We told you great things were happening at YOUYOGA…thanks for staying tuned, and special thanks to Mr. McDaniel at AKKA for believing in our yoga approach.

 

***Classes Begin First Week Of October*** 

 

September Specials:

In honor of Yoga Month all passes (excluding 6 week yoga session) will be 50% off on Friday, September 30 in honor of  The Time for Yoga.  We will also be holding two mini yoga sessions at our new space at 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm.  Take part in a bite size of yoga, a bite size of  sweet treats, and save big in cash!   Please check schedule for details.  Looking forward to seeing you soon! 

 

October Specials:

YOUYOGA will be offering a 6 week session of Monday evening classes beginning October 10 – November 21 (no class on October 31).  We will be flowing from pose to pose in this class building heat to detox the body.  Everybody is welcomed!  Bring your water…because you will be sweating.  There are two options of payment: Pay $10 Drop-In each class.  Or, purchase pass $48 ($8 per class).  Please register prior to Friday, October 7.

Notes From The Students September 19, 2011

 “I’ve been practicing yoga for over 10 years so have met more than a few
instructors.  Ericka’s delightful, positive personality makes it fun.  But,
more importantly, her instructions are clear and she is attentive to proper
form and alignment.  While challenging students to their edge, she
encourages them to listen to and respect where they are at any given time.
Her classes vary from week-to-week in structure and content making the
interesting, never rote.  And, she gives voice to the mind-body-spirit
connection.  With her, the practice of yoga is more than just an exercise or
a work-out class.” 

– Mary

Sunday Inspiration 10 September 18, 2011

“When you expect things to happen – strangely enough – they do happen.”

J.P. Morgan

Your Practice…Is YOUR Practice September 16, 2011

I can’t even count the number of times that a person has shared their story of a bad yoga experience.  Sadly, the bad story is almost always linked back to a stern instructor.  Some instructors believe that yoga should only be practiced in the true sense of the ancient art.  Or, practiced exactly to the teachings prescribed from a specific yoga style such as Bikram or Iyengar.  So, if you can’t inhale or exhale solely through the nose during your practice due to sinus issues…..I guess yoga isn’t for you.  Or, if you can’t perform Half-Lotus due to a knee injury…..you’d best roll up your mat and try swimming instead.

Does this sound a little bit off to anyone?  Well as a yoga instructor my response is, YES!  I whole-heartedly believe that yoga is for everyone.  As a student you need to believe that too.  We are all individuals that step on our mats with individual lives, individual needs, and the individual right to share in a practice that is reflective of self.  I don’t think the world is going to stop spinning if an exhale escapes from the mouth versus the nose.  The more important point is that breath is moving, and you’re aware of it.

My belief is that a yoga practice should allow you the opportunity to explore the possibilities, and to gain a better understanding about your body’s functions.  In time you should find more balance, more strength and more awareness of your actions.  Some things will become more possible….some things simply won’t, and that is more than alright.  The goal is to connect with self not to be pushed into actions that do not grow your practice, or benefit yourself.

The next time you enter a yoga class come with an understanding that your practice is yours, and yours alone.  You know your body better than anyone; therefore, if it doesn’t feel right don’t do it.  Move at your own pace and things will unfold when they unfold.  Continue to move with breath, continue to improve your form, continue to grow your awareness of self, and in time your practice will become more and more a reflection of self……..as it should be.

Namaste

New Beginnings September 13, 2011

Great things are happening with YOUYOGA…..stay posted for more details coming soon!

Sunday Inspiration 9 September 11, 2011

“The greatest thing a man can do in this world is to make the most possible out of the stuff that has been given him.  This is success, and there is no other.”

Orison Swett Marden