Trying Softer
What if the path to transformation isn’t accomplishing more, but cultivating receptivity? Not trying harder, but trying softer. We live in a culture of progress, momentum, striving. And yet, sometimes the deepest work isn’t something we do, but something we allow. The last time something was canceled, did you feel a flicker of relief? Embodied […]
Cultivating Nourishing Patterns – Part 1
In yoga, we have a concept called samskara. These are impressions left behind by our past experiences, actions, and responses. Some call them “soul scars.” They are often described as grooves or imprints in the mind, not unlike a neural pathway. Most often, samskara are subconscious patterns that show up in how we perceive and […]
Pratipaksha Bhavana Defined
Pratipaksha bhavana means “cultivating the opposite.” Practically this looks like making a different choice when habitual patterns no longer serve us. Of course, we first have to realize that something we are or aren’t doing is not serving us anymore! This idea of pratipaksha bhavana is given in the Yogasūtra of Patañjali, the first text to gather […]
Ritucharya Defined
What If your self-care had a rhythm? Rhythm is food to the nervous system, whether we’re talking about movement practices or your daily, weekly, or seasonal schedule. In the Christian tradition, the concept of a “rule of life” is an ancient practice that’s about creating simple, sustainable patterns to live a more integrated, meaningful life. […]
The Seasonal Gift of Rest
As the days grow shorter (in the northern hemisphere) and we get closer to the hubbub of the holidays, it’s important to honor the body’s natural seasonal rhythm. There is a natural draw to slow down and rest, while the culture pulls us in the opposite direction. Stillness practices in particular can help us move […]
After Sitting Practice
Here is a nice way to nourish your body after a bout of sitting (such as when spending time on the computer building your business).
Klesha Defined
Klesha is a Sanskrit word that the YogaSutra (an ancient text defining yoga) presents as a cause of suffering.
Salutogenesis Defined
Salutogenesis is the study of what contributes to well-being. Salus is the Latin word for health, prosperity, or safety.
Sthira Defined
The Sanskrit word we’re looking at this time is sthira. This is one of 2 qualities the Yogasutra posits as necessary for asana practice.
Squat with Weights
Adding weights to movement has many benefits for the body and mind. Clearly, it can contribute to upper body strength and a well-rounded practice.