As we begin our last week of 2021, I have no special words of wisdom to share with you. I know it's typically the time when we review the events of the year, and begin to think about the year ahead.
But 2021 has been different. We don't know what the future brings. I think it's good enough just to acknowledge that we have survived. Pat yourself on the back for being here, just as you are.
No New Year's Resolutions for me (except maybe to stop eating so many cookies!), only gratitude for life and wishes for healthier, happier times ahead.
If you would like to explore yoga to support you through life, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Adult Temper Tantrum?
There are so many stories on the news about people acting out in public: on airplanes, in stores, or on the roads, just to name a few. It seems that some people believe that anger and frustration are a justifiable reason to act terribly.
I think the constant change and uncertainty over the past 2 years have taken their toll. Personally, I've been a little stressed figuring out all of the schedule changes as more in-person classes return (it's actually a good problem to have), plus all of the extra holiday activities and traffic.
Do you know that there's a way to handle frustration and stress, without suppressing feelings, or lashing out at others? There's actually a practice called Tantrum Yoga:
https://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/yoga-trends/let-it-out-with-tantrum-yoga/
The yoga teacher in the article encourages "students to let out their stresses and frustrations by screaming, yelling, stomping, chest-pounding and, inevitably, laughing."
All you really need to do is yell while you move your body in any way you want. (You may want to warn the members of your household, or close neighbors first). Then take a deep breath and let it go with a sigh, pause and notice. It's a good emotional release and can be done in the privacy of your home (or car, as needed).
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you release stress, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Happy Holidays!
Eva
Grounded
Remember when being "grounded" was a bad thing? As kids we didn't want to be still, so being told we couldn't do an activity or be with friends was a terrible punishment!
As an adult, the idea of staying still actually sounds great to me. Maybe it's just because I travel around teaching yoga classes in multiple communities, in addition to my Zoom virtual classes. To be honest, when I'm not teaching, grocery shopping, or cooking (oh yes and walking Lulu), I'm really a couch potato!
In the yoga world, we use the term grounding to refer to a sense of stability, being present in your body and connected to the earth. We sometimes use the words "centered" or "balanced" for this concept as well. There's even a practice called Earthing, which involves stepping into nature with bare feet, which is said to transfer electrical charges from the earth to our body for positive effects.
You don't have to stand in dirt, or do yoga to feel grounded. You can simply pause whatever you are doing and just notice anything that is touching the floor, the chair you're sitting on, or even your bed. Feel how gravity holds you on the earth, and let your mind stay in the present for a few breaths. Grounding is a great way to take a break from holiday and year-end activity, and recharge.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you feel more grounded, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be well,
Eva
I Did 1 Pushup!
In all of my yoga classes I talk about how important it is to stay out of our ego, and just practice with the body we have today. The most common phrase I hear from almost everyone begins with "I used to be able to. . .," but that doesn't help where we are NOW.
This is why it's embarrassing to tell you that back in May 2020 I hurt my left shoulder doing a push-up in an online yoga class. Even though I knew I hadn't really been doing much strength work since the pandemic shutdown started, I decided to go for the full chaturanga pose (really a reverse push-up, where you bend elbows and lower to the ground from plank pose with legs straight). I heard a CRUNCH, and felt pain immediately that kept going for weeks.
My doctor did X-rays and confirmed I hadn't done any serious damage (unlike my injury many years before that required rotator cuff surgery and many months of rehab, after guess what? Push-ups!) Most likely I had a micro tear, sprain, or impingement. Over the past 18 months or so I've been doing my shoulder strengthening exercises, resting when it became inflamed, and testing out gentle push-up variations.
One day last week in my own practice, I explored by doing some standing pushups with my hands on the wall, then tried another version on the ground with my knees down, and felt good. I finally tried the straight-leg version, and was excited to maintain the proper form all the way down. Then I rested, deciding not to "push" it anymore that day.
It's not that it's important to do a push-up - I can live without them just fine for the rest of my life. What's important is to have functional mobility and strength that helps with everyday life, like lifting a bag of groceries, or getting something down from an overhead shelf. To have this, you have to listen to your body, and give yourself permission to progress gradually.
Recently I've been integrating some strength training to some of my classes, using optional dumbbells, resistance bands, or a block. I keep it simple and slow so everyone can find their own version that works for their body.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you move better in YOUR body, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be strong,
Eva
Supporting Small Business
Happy Thanksgiving weekend! Are you recovering from all the food and activity? Are you being bombarded with "Black Friday" advertisements? I know I am!
Even though we're all affected by the "supply chain" problems (just look at gas and grocery prices for proof), we're really still so blessed to have so many things available to us conveniently. With just a simple click of the mouse we can have food ready to pick up, and nearly anything delivered to our door.
Last Wednesday I stopped at the Flower Market near me and bought a beautiful fall bouquet. I was really pleased by the quality, price, and selection. The service was personal, efficient, and super friendly. The woman who waited on me also reminded me that I'm supporting a small local business.
As a small yoga business owner, I am so aware that there is a TON of inexpensive or free yoga available out there. My business coach once told me not to worry about all the competition, because most people prefer to go to someone they already know and trust. That advice has served me well over the past 6 years of teaching, and I'm honored and humbled that many of you continue to support my business.
I often joke that what I choose to teach is about me, but in reality it's about YOU! I believe that if I find things that help me ease back stiffness, build steadier balance, or even cope with anxiety, then it may benefit you too.
Here are some ways you can continue to support me in my efforts:
* Send me a note telling me if I've helped you in some way. These really make my day! (Email is great, or my mailing address is below if you want to "snail" mail something). You can check out some student testimonials here.
* Check out FREE videos on my YouTube channel; like and Subscribe to the channel to be notified of new videos
* Leave a good review for my business on Google
* Tell your friends and family about me. I offer private sessions as well as group classes.
* Sign up for classes - here's my schedule
* Sign up for, or gift, a Video Library Membership to access 100s of videos to practice whenever and wherever you want
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you feel better in your unique body, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be well,
Eva
Making COVID Adaptations Work in Your Favor (for the Long Term)
Image via Unsplash
Today’s post is from a featured guest writer. Emma Grace Brown lives her life by her rules; and it works! When she's not snuggling puppies, Emma promotes female empowerment through her website. Her mission is to help those who live with self-doubt to realize they don't have to mold themselves to conventionality.
Amid the inconveniences and disruptions the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to our everyday lives, there have been quite a few silver linings discovered along the way. In some ways, living a healthy life has been made more convenient for the average person!
There are more resources for exercising and eating nutritiously at home. There are more remote work opportunities for employees and business owners alike. And for many people, there is a stronger sense of urgency to spend time outdoors, which comes with a plethora of health benefits. Below, are some practical ways that the COVID adaptations could improve your life for many years to come!
Working Out at Home
Gone are the days when you have to join the gym or fitness center to get into a comprehensive fitness routine. Now, there are so many online resources to help you create an at-home regimen that works for you.
Whether you like to walk, go cycling, lift weights, or do any number of other activities that get your blood pumping, you can easily stay fit by making a small space in your home and investing in minimal equipment. And if you need guidance or resources for mindful movements, breathing exercises, and more, be sure to consult Nourish Yoga & Wellness!
Eating More Nutritiously
In recent years, more and more food delivery services have surfaced. And since the pandemic restrictions have limited restaurant and grocery operations, the food delivery industry has flourished even more than it was before. Not only does this make it more convenient to get the healthy meals and groceries you need, but ordering online also makes it easier to make healthy decisions while shopping because you see the entire order on your screen!
Changing Course in Your Career
A lot of people have made serious career changes during the pandemic. In many cases, businesses have offered employees telecommuting and remote work opportunities in order to survive and stay relevant. Furthermore, a lot of entrepreneurs have chosen to start home-based businesses. Here is the moral of the story: Technology has made it more practical than ever to work from home.
If you think it’s time to change your career to something more fulfilling, starting a business could be the ideal path. You will have to handle a lot of tasks as you prepare to launch your company, including establishing a legal structure. As you choose between several structures, consider the benefits of forming an LLC, which can protect you from liability and save you money come tax time, among many other perks. Here’s a great service to help you get it done: https://www.zenbusiness.com/florida-llc/.
Picking Up a Hobby
Spending more time at home has also led a lot of people to start new hobbies. Along with adding fulfillment to your days and helping you feel more productive, engaging in a hobby can significantly reduce stress. Think of activities you could do throughout the week that are unrelated to your work and other obligations, and carve out time to do them. You might be surprised by how much a hobby can improve your everyday life!
Breathing Fresh Air
Lastly, spending more time at home tends to reveal the harmful effects of staying cooped up indoors. Sunshine is critical to one's overall health and well-being, so try to get outside as much as you can in the months ahead. Simply going for a 20-minute walk in your neighborhood or at a local park can give you the vitamin D boost you need. And if you want to take it to the next level, consider investing in an outdoor living space where you can enjoy meals, have coffee, read books, or simply take in the sunshine and relax.
Some of the changes of routine that have occurred during the pandemic could prove useful in helping you maintain a high quality of life in the years ahead. Consider the ideas above for making the adaptations work to your advantage, and keep researching other ways that you can develop healthy daily habits. We all want to live our best lives, and we now have more tools and resources than ever to help us accomplish that!
Would you like to read more helpful content or schedule a free 20-minute health coaching consultation? Visit NourishYogaWellness.com today!
What's STRONG With You?
I saw this FitBit ad on TV last week, and was struck by the message. At first I even thought I heard "what's WRONG with you?" Even though it is fitness-based, it shows a diversity of different bodies and activities, and implies that we all possess an INNER strength that fuels us.
I've noticed that we often focus on what's wrong in our world, lives, or bodies. The squeaky wheel gets the grease, as the saying goes. What if we focus instead on what is RIGHT, what is STRONG?
Here's a simple exercise for you: start by taking a moment to sit comfortably.
* Consider the things you have survived in your life - we have come through the past (almost) 2 years of a pandemic. Even before that I am sure you have experienced events, big and small, that have challenged and shaped you.
* Take a look around you and become aware of your surroundings. Can you find something that makes you feel good?
* Observe your body in this moment, notice what functions well.
* Realize that you woke up today and are breathing.
By beginning with what's right, good, and strong, we can find a sense of steadiness, and maybe even contentment. We can enjoy that steady place, and even let it propel us to take action when it is needed.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you recognize and build on your strengths, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be strong,
Eva
Happy Feet?
How are your "tootsies" these days? The feet are so important for all that we do each day in getting around. If our feet are healthy, it helps us feel more grounded and steady, yet ready to move. But, if the feet aren't happy, the whole body can suffer. That's because the soles of the feet connect to the entire back of the body!
It's no secret to my students and people close to me that I had problems with my feet earlier this year that lasted for months. Severe plantar fasciitis, due to heel spurs, returned with a vengeance after a 12 year absence. (Believe it or not, it began after I worked at a temp job at Michaels setting up a huge new store, while waiting for a permanent job to start.)
It was a huge deal for me, because for many months I felt pain every time I was on my feet. I had to stop long walks to the beach (my favorite thing), and it limited many of my favorite standing yoga poses. I was desperate to avoid cortisone shots and possibly even surgery.
Thanks to help from a great podiatrist, an in-depth consultation with a fellow yoga teacher who specializes in alignment and orthopedic rehab (check out https://www.maleahwilsonyoga.com/), and continuing diligent practice on my part, I am now almost completely pain-free!
If you're in any of my classes, you know that I almost always incorporate feet work, including many of the things I do for myself. In fact I like to say that we work from head to toe. Here's to Happy Feet!
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you feel good from head to toe, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be well,
Eva
Happy Halloween
Do you have Halloween plans? We'll probably just watch our neighborhood golf cart parade, maybe go to Pirates' Fest downtown, and watch a spooky movie at home. I don't think we'll get many trick-or-treaters in our neighborhood (we just moved to a 55+ community).
As soon as Halloween is over (or even before), plans go directly to Thanksgiving, and even Hanukkah or Christmas. So many of you have told me you're travelling, and/or have travel plans over the next 2 months.
Speaking of plans, I'm also beginning to hear of local communities talking about opening back up to activities, and maybe resuming in-person yoga classes. I will let you know as things develop.
One thing I learned from the pandemic is that I need time for my own yoga and healthy life practices that I had begun to neglect pre-pandemic. I need to treat, not trick, myself!
I may not be able to accommodate every class request I receive, but will do my best. I will probably keep some virtual options going forward (Zoom and/or video recordings).
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you treat yourself well, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, be well,
Eva
Head Shoulders Knees & Toes
https://www.musicinkirklees.co.uk/
This children's song is to get kids moving, and to teach very young ones to identify body parts. (By the way, the adult version is "wallet, glasses, keys, and phone .) I think it's a great reminder that everything on our body is connected.
As I was moving and unpacking last week, I found myself feeling sore and stiff in many parts of my body. I normally do a personal yoga practice every morning that incorporates the whole body, but I skimped on it when things got busy. I only did stretches for the specific areas where I have the most tension (back and feet).
This was a reminder to me that you really can't "spot treat" body areas. Big muscles have smaller assisting muscles, nerves, tendons, and connective tissue. Joints have connections to muscle via ligaments. As we are complex 3D shapes, what we do on one side of the body also affects the opposite side.
So for example, when dealing with low back pain, there's no one magical pose that does everything. Instead, what's needed is a combination of movements for mobility, strength, and flexibility that address the back and everything surrounding it.
That's why each class I teach, whether chair or mat, includes a well-rounded practice from head to toe. Just don't ask me to sing!
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you feel better from head to toe, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay safe, keep moving,
Eva
Can’t Go to the Gym? Here’s How You Can Stay Healthy at Home
Image via Pixabay
I am in the process of moving to a new location, so I am featuring a guest writer in this week's post.
Justin Bennett is an author and the creator of Healthy Fit, which collects valuable fitness resources from across the web.
Can’t Go to the Gym?
Here’s How You Can Stay Healthy at Home
Even though gyms and yoga studios have been open for some time, the uptick in COVID cases has many people retreating to their homes again. And this can make staying on top of your healthy habits a bit more challenging. To ensure you get the movement you need, setting up a home workout space is a great way to stay in shape while you wait out the pandemic. However, you’ll also need to find ways to keep eating healthy and focus on your mental health while you’re stuck on lockdown. To get started, check out the following tips from Nourish Yoga & Wellness.
How to Take Better Care of Your Physical Health at Home
There are ways to eat well and fit in a workout, regardless of whether you have any equipment.
Sign Up for a Video Membership with Nourish Yoga & Wellness
Everything You Need to Create the Perfect Home Gym
Yes! A Gym Space Could Boost Your Home’s Value
10 Exercises to Tone Every Inch of Your Body
How to Build a Healthy Meal That Actually Keeps You Full
Where Does Costco Deliver? Costco Delivery Online Near Me
Creative Ways to Practice Self Care at Home
Exercising and eating well are both ways to practice self-care, but these ideas can give your routine more variety.
How to Start a Meditation Practice: A Guide for Beginners
Why Decluttering Is Important for Self-Care
Could Housework Be the Secret to Good Self-Care?
Invest in Functional Loungewear and Undergarments
9 Ways to Use Art to Practice Self-Care
The Healing Power of Laughter: Ways to Use Humor as a Part of Self-Care
Whether you’re staying home because you’re at risk yourself or want to prevent spreading disease to others, it’s important to look for ways to stay healthy indoors. A great way to start is by exercising, practicing self-care, and cooking good meals with your pantry foods.
You can learn more about Justin's health resources on his website.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you maintain your health, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Stay healthy, be well,
Eva
Stop "Should"ing Yourself!
We have so many "shoulds" thrown at us: brush your teeth and floss daily, exercise at least 3 times a week, drink more water, eat more vegetables, cut down on TV/device time. . . you get the drift.
If you find yourself thinking about what you "should" be doing often, and it's not motivating you, then you may feel inadequate, reluctance, or guilt when you don't follow through. It's as if it's never enough no matter what you do.
Enough of that! I like this idea better. Tell yourself: I choose to do this, because . . . I think it's much more empowering. Examples:
* I choose to drink a glass of water because it hydrates me.
* I choose to take a yoga class because my body feels better afterward.
* I choose to do nothing and rest, because that's what I want!
What do you think? Try it out and let me know how it feels.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you feel better in your body and mind, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Choose well, be well,
Eva
Autumn Change
I love fall - it's my favorite season. Despite the continuing heat in south Florida, I still think of it as a time to get cozy, anticipating cooler (but shorter) days ahead.
I was researching the symbolism of autumn , and ran across a great article on Bustle.com. I'd like to share just one quote from it with you:
Change
"Autumn reminds us that our bodies, minds, and surroundings are always developing. It focuses on the impermanence of life, emphasizing how vital it is to embrace the present. By doing so, we can savor what we have before it is gone."
Here's the one thing we can come back to when navigating change (autumn or anytime): Santosha. Translated as Contentment, Santosha invites us to stay present to what IS, and find appreciation for what is GOOD in our lives, even as changes swirl around.
I know that there are more changes ahead for me, both personally and professionally. It it my intention to continue to practice and provide yoga sessions with gratitude at the core, and I hope you'll join me.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you flow with the changes in life, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Happy Fall Y'all,
Eva
Snack Time
My birthday weekend plans are under way, so I'll make this short and sweet.
One of my favorite "guilty pleasures" is snacking. I love cashews, fruit, or these chips with some salsa or guacamole. (I also can't turn down pie, a homemade cookie, or a cupcake!)
Just enough to hit a pause on hunger in between meals, or to satisfy a craving. If I'm not careful it can get out of control, but when I snack mindfully it can be a nice lift in the day.
I just want to remind you that you don't have to do an hour of yoga to get a lift in your mood, or to feel less crunchy in your body. Even picking one movement you remember from class, or that you make up, and doing that for 5 minutes can give you the boost that you need.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps your mind and body feel good, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Be Well, Snack Well,
I Feel Your Pain (sort of)
Empathy Is My Super Power
One of my students told me recently that she likes my classes because she thought that I could relate to how the students feel.
This particular lovely lady is in her 80s. She loves that I moan and groan along with the group, and sometimes fail at a pose. I share adjustments I make for my own body, and suggest some for them, or invite them to explore.
At 57 (about to be 58 next week), I know that my body and experiences are different from my students, but there are many similarities. Here's just a little of what I have dealt with in my life - and much of it is ongoing:
😧 Neck and Back pain from bad posture and sitting at a desk for too many hours/years in my previous career
😧 Plantar Fasciitis foot painthat acts up randomly
😧 Rotator cuff surgery / shoulder injury
😧Anxiety that keeps me awake sometimes
😧Mental fog
😧 Worries about loss of strength and balance as I get older
I don't claim to have all the answers, but I DO know that mindful yoga, breathing, and meditation helps me live a better life. Yes, I do have 300+ hours of ongoing training and probably 1,000s of hours of teaching experience. But I also feel much of what you feel.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you live your best life, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Be Safe, Live Well,
Eva
What Do You Want?
How you spend your time shows what is important to you. We make time for what we really want.
Did you know that according to Statista: "estimates suggest that in 2021 U.S. adults will spend an average of three hours and 17 minutes watching TV each day."?
I'm guilty of a lot of TV watching too (although not that many hours). However, this doesn't necessarily mean that I love TV per se, but that I value leisure and entertainment - who doesn't?
In order to enjoy any activity, though, we need for our bodies and brains to work well. To be mobile, pain-free, our mind functioning and clear. Yoga can help with all of that.
So even if yoga isn't your favorite thing to do (obviously it is for me), it can help you enjoy what you do love most, whether it's golfing, quilting, walking, reading, or yes, even TV watching.
If you would like to explore yoga and breathing that helps you enjoy your favorite activities, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Be Safe, Be Well,
Eva
A Funny Way To Breathe When You're Stressed
What if the energy and peace you need is as "plain as the nose on your face"? (What a strange expression, right?)
I love this quote by body wellness author Geneen Roth, which probably refers to finding gratitude for what you already have. However, it really fits what I want to introduce today: Alternate Nostril Breathing (also called Nadi Shodhana in yoga).
This is a mindful breathing practice used, not only in yoga, but in mindfulness and relaxation practices to help the body and the mind. By breathing through one nostril side at a time, our nervous system moves into a more restful and balanced state. Other benefits, according to WebMD:
* Lower blood pressure
* Improved breathing
* Lowers fear and anxiety
If you have any respiratory conditions, a stuffy nose, or the practice makes you uncomfortable, you can still receive the benefits without closing off a nostril. Simply breathe gently and slowly, imagining the exhale and inhale on one side, then the other.
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you learn how to breathe and relax, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.
Be Safe, Breathe Well,
Eva
P.S. Check out my FREE 3 minute video tutorial on Alternate Nostril Breathing
3 Steps to Self Care
I'm just returning from vacation and wanted to share this post about self-care from a guest contributor.
Carla Lopez kept her entrepreneurial spirit even after retiring a couple of years ago. She created Boomerbiz.org for retirees who still desire to work and achieve - a site that offers business resources for people in their golden years.
https://www.boomerbiz.org/
Whether you are ready to venture out into the world or you would rather continue to stay at home, there is still something to be said for putting in the time and effort to look and feel your best. You should take the time to incorporate a new routine (or reinforce old habits!) so that you can ensure that you are putting your best self out there.Nourish Yoga & Wellness presents some tips for improving your relationship with your body and mind as the pandemic continues.
Take care of your skin
As we have moved through the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to have an effective routine for taking care of your skin. “Maskne” (or acne under your mask) has been a common complaint so far since we all started wearing masks in public, but the damage to your skin is something you can reverse. You should clean and moisturize your face daily to avoid some of these issues, along with applying lip balm and making sure you skip makeup on the days you have to wear a mask for longer periods of time.
Take care of your body
Feeling good and looking good are two sides of the same coin. The same goes for eating well and exercising. What you’re putting in your body has an impact on your mental wellness — so make sure your new routine incorporates some nutritional guidelines. Diets focused on the consumption of fresh foods have been shown to have the greatest positive impact on depression-related issues.
When it comes to depression, there are several foods to take into consideration aspowerful allies. These allies include avocados, carrots, chicken, and walnuts — along with a host of other ingredients that you can turn into nutritional meals. Walnuts, in particular, are agreat sourceof good fats and Omega-3 acids and offer a good amount of protein, which helps keep your sugar levels in check. There are also great ways to find recipes online that incorporate these depression-fighting foods; for instance, you can incorporate avocados into breakfast meals, appetizers, or salads.
Exercise is good for your mental and physical well-being, as well. It supports your ability to think clearly and achieve mental stability. Yoga is a perfect example. This one-two punch benefits you physically through your asana practice, while tapping into the mindfulness angle helps you feel more grounded and centered. If you’re a yoga beginner, connect with Nourish Yoga & Wellness for classes that are created for all abilities.
Take care of your mind
Mental health and stability have been a priority that you should focus on throughout the pandemic and beyond. The connection between your mind and body is apparent, as well. Just as exercise improves your mental health, mental stability can improve your relationship with your physical self, and you should take steps to achieve ultimate mental wellness.
One proven way to improve mental wellness is to ensure your surroundings reflect the calm and comfort you are trying to exhibit. Environment has a huge impact on your brain. The external stimuli of our homes could have a negative effect on our minds, and making sure your environment is as calming as possible is key.
If work is taking a toll on your mental wellness, it’s in your best interest to find a new job or even switch careers. Take stock of your skills, and look for available opportunities that not only offer a job but also a culture that values its employees. If a new career is in order, you can pave the way toward a better future through an online degree program. Virtual learning makes it easier for working professionals to meet their obligations while enhancing their professional skills. For example, if you’re an RN wanting a post-licensure degree, an online university can help you achieve the necessary credits for a BSN without infringing on your work shifts.
Making yourself a priority, and putting whole-body wellness at the forefront, is key to providing the nourishment you need to live your best life. With these tips, you can easily implement changes in your life; changes for the better.
You can reach out to Carla at carla.lopez@boomerbiz.org for more information
Be safe, take care of yourself,
Eva
Vacation Stress?
Fun at the beach last week
Sometimes it seems more work than is worth it to take a trip. There's the prior planning, packing, arranging for Lulu care (a good friend who loves her is taking her in). Then the actual travel day of getting to the airport and our destination - air travel these days isn't fun, especially as we need to stay masked up. Finally, there's the disruption of our habits, as we'll be staying with family.
However, it's been a long time since we visited family in Michigan (now in Ohio), and we're due for some time off. In the end I know it will be worth it. And isn't the "disruption of habits" really the point? We'll be able to sleep in, stay up late, see some new sights, and just be with loved ones we usually only get to visit by phone.
I'm grateful we have the opportunity and means to take this trip. I'm also hopeful that I will be refreshed and happy to get back home at the end of the week.
Be safe, be refreshed,
Eva
Savasana: The Best Part of Yoga
SAVASANA POSE
According to Merriam-Webster: Definition of Savasana (also Shavasana)
: a meditative posture in which one lies on one's back that is typically considered the final resting pose in yogaSavasana is a pose of total relaxation—making it one of the most challenging.— Yoga Journal
(Note: it is often translated as corpse, or final resting, pose - eek!)
It seems strange that relaxation can be called challenging right? Yet I know from personal experience that it can be difficult to quiet the mind and enjoy doing nothing at the end of class. It's when it is difficult to relax that Savasana is the most important!
With all that is happening in the world right now, it's easy to feel anxious and helpless. Savasana is so powerful in helping move the body's nervous system from a state of fight-or-flight (doing and planning) to rest-and-digest (being comfortable in the present moment).
Although it is traditionally practiced reclined on the back at the end of a mat yoga class, we also end chair yoga by simply resting at the back of the chair.
There's no right or wrong way to practice Savasana, but you might observe that different visualization techniques may help you slow down the "monkey mind."
If you would like to explore yoga that helps you learn how to relax more completely, you can work with me in group classes or 1-on-1 sessions via Zoom or in-person, and video recordings.