Deepen Your Practice With Kristin Campbell
“I am in love with my life path as a Mama, Yoga Educator, Teacher Trainer, and Mentor for Teachers. My classes are a transformative and raw-come sweat and laugh with me! Ultimately, my work is about supporting yoga-practitioners and yoga-teachers in their journey to becoming the best possible version of themselves."
We are incredibly excited to welcome back Kristin Campbell for on June 13, 2014 for two sessions: Teacher Development & Hot Master Class.
Kristin currently teaches at YYoga in Vancouver and Shala Yoga in Squamish. She is Co-Head of YHot Programming, on faculty for YYoga Teacher's College, and Gaiatri teacher trainings. Kristin is the founder/director of Tapasya Hot Yoga, an alignment-based Hot Yoga program informed and inspired by her love of Baptiste Power Yoga, Bikram and Anusara Yoga. Tapasya Hot and Tapasya Power inspired classes are now offered throughout Europe and North America.
"Once we meet, you will come to know immediately that I am passionate about teaching yoga and teaching people how to teach yoga. I am easy to connect with, I keep it real, I make it playful and I am full of moxy. I will find a common thread for us to weave our story with from a place of total authenticity and love." - Kristin Campbell, http://www.kristincampbellyoga.com/
With depth, concision, compassionate Mama energy, a buoyant personality and a knack for holding space, Kristin teaches sustainable, alignment-based yoga: freeing the strong, and strengthening the free.
Click here to register for Kristin's upcoming sessions on June 13th at Yogalife South.
Zoran Speaks On His Science
Check out what Zoran had to share with us and what he intends to share with you this weekend at The Science of Vinyasa Workshop.
This Saturday, May 17, 2:30-6:00, Yogalife Studios South
The Science of Vinyasa from Yogalife Studios on Vimeo.
Stay in tune with all our offerings here!
The Science Of Vinyasa
The following is an article from Zoran Glamoclija, the man offering The Science of Vinyasa this weekend at Yogalife Studios South. Zoran will share Learn how to utilize the energy that is constantly emanating from the nervous systems. Advance through your practice and direct the flow of energy towards greater awareness and progress!
The Science of Vinyasa: Re-Structure and Re-define
1. Adopting beliefs, personality traits, and behaviours through absorption while growing into adulthood
Do you remember, as a child, when you couldn’t help but repeat all the silly things you heard from your parents/television? At the time, it was all so innocent. It was all so seemingly harmless to mimic the voices and styles of our favourite characters on TV, and to repeat swear words with a huge grin when father hurt himself repairing something. This kind of adoption is natural; it’s the way we all learn to absorb information so that we can understand concepts. This understanding indubitably leads to developing certain behavioural and personality traits. And, over time, after we have practiced rehearsing how it is to be “cool” in front of the mirror, all of those moments of practice turn into habits; creating sub-conscious tendencies.
2. Recognizing the process of absorption
We continue our lives for quite a period of time not really recognizing how we have set ourselves up for future decisions and reactions to circumstances. We usually think the way we respond is based on our own personality and unique method of inquiry to whatever dares to be confrontational, or inquisitive. However, let’s take a look a little closer with what has been stated above.
If the innocent and naïve practices of our youth have become sub-conscious habits, that means that we are operating from beliefs and traits that really aren’t ours, without even knowing it.
They are given to us at a time when we are in a mode of absorption. So, what does that say about our unique personality and behaviours? It means, it is a construct that we, personally, have not consciously constructed through awareness. Thus, once such awareness is exercised, the nature of our energy is revealed; namely that, scientifically speaking, we must have a negative polarity which draws ideas, concepts, beliefs, etc. inward so that we can practice outwardly expressing what it is the external world is composed of. And as we know, some parts of society love expressing that ‘the world is our oyster’. At this point in a child’s life, when he/she is steadily growing into a teen and young adult, absorption begins to slowly decline while outward expression increases. Remember earlier about the idea of not really recognizing how we set ourselves up for the future? Well, when we believe that we are confident with how well we grasp ideas and concepts, naivety continues to operate, bringing us into a future that sometimes seems to have happened without us wanting it to. This time our outward expression becomes the practice and we add to our beliefs, behaviours, and personality traits of what it means to be active in a community. Thus, as our beginning stages were to absorb traits, our later childhood/teen/young adult stages are adding traits to what we have absorbed without bringing awareness to the fact that the first traits were not ours to begin with.
3. Yoga and the process of re-structuring and re-defining
What can be done about all the habits that have been created from childhood that now operate sub-consciously? How can the imbalance between all that has been absorbed and all that has been expressed equalize? What am I even talking about?
The answer to all of those questions is Yoga. There is a literal re-wiring that occurs when yoga is practiced regularly.
Remember that one time in pigeon pose when suddenly you got this ridiculous rush of frustration, anger, sadness, and glimpses of moments of your childhood? Yeah, I don’t really either, because really no one wants to remember traumatic experiences. Well, in case you have, those ‘emotional releases’ are coming from your nervous system. When we target areas of our body, a sensation arises, which we classify as pain or discomfort, but what is actually happening is that the muscles have been torn in micro-segments which allows for the nerve endings to release whatever energy was stored in that area. Because our brains are fantastic machines, they pick up the energy signals and interpret them. Each one of us is different, so we will interpret the sensation in multiple ways. I know I’ve been told repeatedly to focus on a rhythmic breath, but why? Here is why.
When you consciously control your breath in a rhythmic rate you active the parasympathetic nervous system. This increases serotonin and begins to calm the brain during fight of flight mode/the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. So, as energy is leaving the nervous system through whatever area of muscles are targeted, simultaneously new nerves are being created to support the higher levels of serotonin that are produced from the conscious breathing.
As the restructuring is occurring from releasing pent up energies with happy fresh energies, it is also necessary to redefine how it is you operate with your body. Instead of not knowing the impact the adopted beliefs will have, you can fully know and be aware what impact a yoga practice can have on your entire being because the balance between energetic release and circulation pulls your mind to focus in on what is occurring during the yoga practice.
4. Acute awareness and dynamic forces, absorbing and emitting consciously
The more yoga is practiced, the more re-wiring occurs. As you turn every muscle that once was tense and tight into flexible happy strings of goodness, your brain also completely re-wires. This occurs because where ever there are nerve networks in your legs, for example, there are neurological pathways that correlate in your brain. So think about it.
As you release every muscle from the grip of tension and toxins into openness and serotonin filled, your whole body operates on the higher vibes that you consciously restructured into your being. As you practice conscious control and awareness, you will naturally begin to observe how your body operates and switches between positive and negative fields of energy.
Just as the planet has a negative and positive pole, and like the sun, and like the galaxy, we also have negative and positive poles. However, our poles flip much more frequently than our celestial hosts. Tracing back for a moment, when we transitioned from childhood to teen/young adult, we weren’t aware of the pole flips. When you bring awareness to the pole flips, you realize how to utilize the energy of the dynamic forces. Thus, you begin to absorb and emit energy consciously. For example, after a period of time practicing yoga and bringing awareness to the nature of energy from your body/mind/emotions, you find that when someone is acting rude or negative in some way, you don’t react to it. Instead you listen and contemplate, and absorb consciously the way that person was standing, the tone of voice they used, and the nature of language used. Then, you consciously choose to use the energy that was absorbed to inspire a change of heart so to speak, so you express yourself in a way that will aid in their pole flip to embody a more positive outlook. That is the process of having an acute awareness to absorb and emit energy consciously through the faculties of the body.
5. Unity consciousness and functioning subconsciously as a whole being
Just as we all practiced absorbing and emitting ideas, beliefs, and tendencies that turned into sub-conscious tendencies and habits, when we consciously re-write and re-wire those tendencies through the practice of Yoga, we begin to operate from a unified state of consciousness sub-consciously. After all, Yoga does literally mean Unity. That means, that the body will maintain a balance between absorption and emission. This not only occurs with the body, it includes the fluctuating energy in the mind and emotions. Furthermore, when all of these are unified and in balance, wholeness ensues.
At this point it is now up to you to do the work. Practice yoga, and don’t just sit there day dreaming. Focus on the breath, make it rhythmic, and talk to your body. Tell your body that changes are being made for the better. Tell your body to relax and allow the old patterned energies to release to make way for fresh new high vibe charged pathways.
Observe the sounds the body makes, and the movements that occur. The more awareness the better! This way, you learn from a form of existence that holds all the knowledge you need to truly know of yourself.
That’s enough out of me for now! Hope you enjoyed the read, and see you on May 17th for The Science of Vinyasa!
Click here to register, space is limited.
Dipping In: The Art of Seeing
I had no idea what to expect from a blindfolded yoga class. I assumed that I would love it, which I did, but the assumption came more from the silliness of the idea: the group giggle factor and how clumsy and childlike it would be... which it was.
What I found under the blindfold (within the first 90 seconds or so) was a whole new playing field that I hadn't touched in with for some time; simply forgotten. As a yoga instructor and general enthusiast of self-exploration, I am constantly reminding myself and those around me: look within.
KNOW THYSELF! Dip in! Get into you! It's all in there.
Under the blindfold I became totally aware of how inherently programmed we are as humans to rely on our senses and how far you can actually dip without just one of them. Even standing in tadasana or moving into a childs pose took so much inner detail and refinement because I couldn't just "go there". And that's where the fun began...
The giggles I was seeking were there in that room; trust that 35 people wobbling and fumbling around on their mats is a good time. The sense of community in the room was heightened because, although you are constantly surrounded by community in a yoga class, this time we all shared a common challenge. The sense of realization was awakened. The new understanding. There was no opportunity for comparison or latching onto stories of why other people are better at some poses than you. Not once did I think "I wonder if lululemon has those tights she's wearing in stock... I should pop in after yoga... blah blah blah."
It became clear to me how much visual information facilitated my personal process. Yes, the physical practice of yoga may be easier when you can see what you're doing at times, but in the darkness of the blindfold I really had to check in constantly and remain radically present to let the practice flow.
I like to think that it was this grounding and mindfulness that kept me somewhat upright, not the sneaky wall spot I snagged for the workshop...! I swear I only grabbed onto it during 7 poses.
To dip inside your vessel and really sink into your underground is an illuminating and important place to be. We all practice yoga for different reasons with the underlying desire of calming the mind. When it's just you in there, no help nor distraction from the outside world, you are connecting with your source.
I truly believe that is yoga.
So eventually the blindfold comes off and we all blink a few times and just sit. I wiped away a few tears of joy and really just sat there, looking at my hands. Ah, those hands!
And then we all gathered round and talked about it. Hearing everyone's sensations with this process was humbling and exciting.
The experience was so unique I feel we could have talked all night.
International photographer and crazy eye ninja, Pete Longworth, showed us his view that night. His art of seeing. After we took that time within, totally void of sight, we re-entered back into the visual field with a new wonderment. Pete explained this as his art. This can be all of our art. To revel in the beauty of everything just by paying a little closer attention, that is the Art of Seeing.
Here's a lovely video recap of the last Art of Seeing event at the studio.
The Art of Seeing + Blindfolded Yoga from Pete Longworth on Vimeo.
We are ecstatic to have Pete back in the building this Friday, May 9th joined by Myrah Penaloza to lead us through this experience. Click here to register for the second instalment of The Art of Seeing.
For more information please email info@yogalifestudios or connect with us on Facebook.
Core Shri
Core work has the potential to place us in moments of spontaneous and unavoidable vulnerability. It’s that quality of the practice alone that has me so drawn to it. My core practice has unraveled parts of myself that needed to be loved, seen and acknowledged.
Through the offering of ‘Core Shri - Core Work As A Spiritual Practice,’ my intention is to offer tools for you to empower yourself. In the winter months, I was granted an opportunity to put the teachings of yoga into practice, and what I was given as a result of my willingness to go into the discomfort, was massive self empowerment. My body craved deep core movements. However physically demanding my practice would be, the energetic quality of those movements helped me redefine what being in my center meant for me.
Through that willingness to be in discomfort, and surrender into the pain and tenderness of what I was going through, I had discovered an enormously powerful place within. For the first time, maybe ever in my life, I fell in love with myself.
Core work as a spiritual practice means allowing yourself to be so in the flow with Spirit that you are constantly empowered in each moment. However that may look or feel. Through getting into your core practice more deeply, you not only strength your body, but your capacity to hold space for your own radical transformations and shifts in life. Getting grounded in your body with a core practice is such a powerful tool to be consistently living the life you deserve. The tools offered in this workshop can be translated into your yoga practice, as well as the way your create your own reality off the mat.
The goddess archetype Lakshmi is the embodiment of radiance and luxurious self love. So, in the midst of core intensity, the invitation in this workshop is to soften into that place within that is inherently self nurturing and accepting.
Where can we lovingly invite awareness into places within that may have been disowned or pushed aside and instead, fearlessly acknowledge those shadow aspects of the self? We’ll invite this powerful archetype into the practice with some mantra and a short meditation. Simply tools to invite the remembering of that which all ready is.
You are already abundant, radiant and magnificent!
As movement is highly medicinal, so is knowledge. Charging the core is valuable, but so is an understanding of how these muscles work to get to that place of strength. Simple break downs of your core muscles and the way they work with your breath will be offered to build an even more clear foundation for empowerment. I’ll provide you with take home worksheets that will complement your existing yoga practice, whether it be in studio or at home.
How can we each stand stronger within ourselves to offer the gifts and radiance we were truly meant to offer this planet? Where are we holding back from standing in our power and really owning our strengths? Choose to step into yourself and boldly offer your gifts. All via your core practice!
Join us for an afternoon of transformation and empowerment Sunday, April 20th from 2:30-5:30 at Yogalife Studios South.
If you’re seeking any clarification or have any questions on this workshop, please contact Brittany at b.rudyck@gmail.com
In the empowered radiance of Spirit,
Brittany
Getting Rooted with Muladhara
Our thoughts and emotions are vibrations that move like a current through our subtle body. Think of the physical body as what you can touch and see and your energy body as your subtle body: your vibration. Chakras are points along the subtle body located at the physical counterparts of the major arteries, veins and nerves. The Sanskrit word chakra means "wheel" or "turning" and the yogic concept refers to a vortex or whirlpool of energy. There are seven main chakras in the body, each governing a different host of connections to one's health and harmony with self and environment.
Each of the seven chakras are governed by spiritual laws, principles of consciousness that we can use to cultivate greater harmony, happiness, and wellbeing in our lives and in the world.
- Deepak Chopra
Chopra shares the following information on our first chakra:
The First Center: The Root Chakra
The root chakra, known in Sanskrit as muladhara, is located at the base of the spine. It governs your most basic survival needs. When this chakra is clear and energy flows through it freely, we feel secure and confident that we can easily fulfill our needs. However, blockage in this area can cause us to feel anxious and worried.
The spiritual Law of Karma governs the first energy center. On the physical plane, every action you perform results in a corresponding reaction. To maximize the possibility that your actions generate evolutionary reactions, you can use your body as a choice determining instrument.
Consider the possibilities in front of you and listen to signals from your body. These sensations generating from the root chakra are either comfortable or uncomfortable. Your body evaluates every possible decision in terms of its likelihood to meet your needs for safety or increase the level of threat you experience.
The first chakra, which connects you with the earth, provides essential information as to the potential nourishment or toxicity that is available to you as a result of the actions you are taking.
If you are interested in chakra work and knowing more about these energy systems in the body, join us tomorrow, March 8th, at Yogalife Studios South for the first session of Asana & Acupuncture: The Root Chakra. We will draw awareness to the energy center, move through a stimulating practice, and rebalance with acupuncture.
Muladhara Chakra is the most instinctual of all the chakras and our survival center, and the center that connects us to the earth and to our ancestral past. When excessive, we often feel egotistical, a need to be in control, and a need to possess. When blocked, often a lack of confidence is present, or feelings of no direction or purpose.
Through an asana practice, we will move through postures that directly stimulate and work to balance out our root chakra. After finding a deep awareness of that energy center, we will settle into an extended savsana, where acupuncture points directly linked to our first chakra, namely the conception vessels, governing vessel, and kidney & bladder meridians will be administered.
Namaste Patrick!
Over the past few days Yogalife Studios North and South hosted a series of workshops led by Patrick Creelman, Whistler-native/Hong Kong-residing yogi extraordinaire! These classes, entitled "Strength and Intelligence", taught us totally new ways to our old tricks. We learned a refreshed intelligence that got us out of our comfort zones and into our bodies, upside down and backwards included!
Here are some of the highlights from the sessions.
Jenn sets up in standing half lotus.
...and flips it upside down!
Caren demonstrates this different approach to handstand prep that we practiced tons.
Caitlin gets an assist in pincha mayurasana.
Getting creative with hanumanasana.
From the entire Yogalife community, thank you for sharing these past few days with us Patrick. Stay tuned for next year! Namaste.
Patrick Creelman: Strength & Intelligence
Patrick is a certified Anusara teacher, masterful and well-versed with advanced alignment. Through years of dedicated study he has developed a high level of personal practice and an expert eye in helping students achieve new levels in their own physical yoga practice and philosophical understanding.
Patrick is widely considered as one of the most experienced and inspiring "Teacher's Teacher" in Asia.
Well established throughout China and Asia, Patrick has a global community that also extends throughout Europe, North America, and South Africa. His classes include a philosophically based thematic focus, clear anatomy, and alignment for both simple and complex poses within a strong fluid practice.
Patrick will be at Yogalife Studios South on February 10th for an evening practice at 7pm-9:30pm, Two Practices on February 11th at 1pm - 3:30pm and 7pm - 9:30pm. He will also be teaching at Yogalife Studios North on February 12th at 1pm-3:30pm and 7pm-9:30pm. Click here to register!
Patrick doesn't post a lot of videos, but here's a sneak peak of him in action!
Have a Laugh!
Laughter yoga teaches you how to laugh about everything in your life that isn't really funny, in other words to laugh for no reason. It combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing which invites more oxygen to the body and brain making one feel healthier and more energetic.
The concept is based on a scientific fact that the body cannot differentiate between real, and fake or forced laughter, one gets the same physiological and psychological benefits. Laughter Yoga is a simple routine which reduces physical, mental, and emotional stress simultaneously. It can change your mood within minutes by releasing "feel good" hormones from the brain cells called endorphins. It also strengthens the immune system and is a powerful antidote for depression. It reduces blood pressure, increases blood supply to the heart, reduces symptoms of allergies, asthma, arthritis, and increases self-confidence and communication skills.
Laughter is truly the best medicine!
Laughter Yoga sessions start with gentle warm-up techniques which include stretching, chanting, clapping and body movement. These help break down inhibitions. Breathing exercises are used to prepare the lungs for laughter, followed by a series of ‘laughter exercises’ that combine the method of acting and visualization techniques with playfulness. These exercises, when combined with the strong social dynamics of group behaviour, lead to prolonged and hearty unconditional laughter. Laughter exercises are interspersed with breathing exercises. Twenty minutes of laughter is sufficient to develop full physiological benefits.
The goal of Laughter Yoga is to bring good health, joy and world peace through laughter. Laughter is universal with no language and cultural barriers.
Yogalifer Franklin Paul speaks of his Laughter Yoga journey.
I was introduced to the concept of laughter yoga in 2006 at a time when I practiced Ashtanga, Sivannanda Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Okido Yoga. I was curious to learn the concept so two months later I signed up to be a laughter leader. A laughter yoga leader can only lead not teach. So in September 2008 I enrolled and successfully completed the laughter yoga teachers training lead by Dr. Madhan Kataria who started the concept in 1995. Since graduating, I have led many into laughter.
If you are looking to laugh, Franklin will be hosting a workshop at Yogalife Studios North, Saturday, February 2, 3:30-5:30 pm. Click here to register!
Warriors of Change
Brandon Jacobs Introduces Warriors of Change from Yogalife Studios on Vimeo.
Yogalifer Brandon Jacobs shares his vision and inspiration around his upcoming workshops, Warriors of Change. His goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our yoga community to come together and bring love and acceptance to issues that may be holding us back or affecting our lives negatively.
Warriors of Change will explore the link between asana, journaling and meditation, with many societal issues.
Brandon, will lead you from the heart in authenticity, to show you the power of vulnerability, and how it can assist you in opening to the possibility of moving towards a higher version of yourself. Through the POWER of asana, and deep self-awareness, we can become raw and unmasked. We can truly see ourselves, forgive ourselves, and learn to love ourselves.
Through acceptance, transformation becomes possible.
Pre-register for this amazing workshop soon, space is limited!
January 25/2:30-5:30pm/Yogalife Studios South
3 Reasons Why You Need a Restorative Yoga Practice
Adapted from Mind Body Green
Restorative yoga has a wonderful way of allowing our entire physical body to relax. This practice is an “active relaxation” class where we purposely support the body in yoga postures with props so we can stimulate and relax the body towards balance. Muscle and joint tension melts away, the endocrine (governor of hormones) system will be restored and any residual stress in the nervous system washes away. We are left with better digestion, energy levels and a good overall sense of well being.
I asked the class to set an intention to focus on ahimsa during their practice that evening. I asked them to imagine, with every inhale, filling up with a bright light, or an energy, that represented non-violence and loving kindess. With every exhale I encouraged the class to release everything else that wasn’t serving them right then in that moment, to allow for focus and attention on ahimsa.
Yogalifer Emily McNicoll shares her personal insight on this nurturing practice:
"My passion around restorative yoga lies not only in helping people heal their body and mind but to provide a sacred experience in which they can shine a light on the shadowy sides of the self and ultimately feel more comfortable in their own skin."
Our upcoming "Rest & Restore" workshop, hosted by Emily, is full to the brim! If you would like to stay in the loop for the next workshop please email us at info@yogalifestudios.ca
Learn To Fly
Summer Solstice Meditation Workshop
Celebrate the coming summer solstice with a yoga and meditation practice! Slow the breath, calm your mind, relax and allow your body to stretch, heal and feel a sense of inner peace. Using ting-sha's and Tibetan singing bowls, Neil will guide you through a deep, healing practice.
We will gather in the Sun room for a meditation to prepare for the upcoming Solstice by joining breath, asana, and meditation to focus on one's self - Sadhana, a way to change a behavior, or add a daily practice, or focus on healing through making a choice, a commitment and aspire to create a different result in one's life. It becomes a self discipline process. It is a way to remove blockages and develop prosperity, internal strength and enjoy a deep and rewarding meditation.
Smooth Moves with Cole Williston
Join us Saturday, April 27th from 2:30-5:30 for a Vinyasa/Acro Yoga Experience!
Learn to move smoothly through postures and challenges with guided breath. Within this workshop, you
will develop integral strength for each individual and we will expand your individual practice into
a shared group practice.
Cole Williston has been instructing for seven years, and is home to Edmonton. His training is in Chakra
Yoga and his style of guidance reflects aspects of Iyengar, Hatha, Vinyasa, and Pranayama. Cole is
passionate about building community and creating evolutionary group experiences. He organizes yoga
adventures through his company PLANit Adventure.
To learn more about Cole, you can check out his blog.
Or you can look at his full bio here.
The Yoga Code - With Jackie Dumaine
What is The Yoga Code™? An incredible and thorough description is below.
Yoga is so much more than looking good in a pair of black stretchy pants!
The 10 Sacred Principles of The Yoga Code™ are based on the ancient wisdom found in The Yoga Sutras an ancient yogic text written approximately 2000 years ago by the Indian sage Patanjali. They have absolutely nothing to do with the physical postures.
REPEAT: They have absolutely nothing to do with the physical postures.
In our body-obsessed Western world, we seem to simply focus on the postures, neglecting the true transformative powers of the yoga tradition. The 10 Sacred Principles are known as The Yamas & Niyamas in yoga philosophy and serve as the absolute foundation for the practice of living a yogic lifestyle.
Pantajali believed that before you even step foot on a yoga mat, these principles should by studied, practiced and applied into your daily life. Each principle is not independent of one another but rather weave together to form a beautiful tapestry.
“Even as education in the primary school level is important, since it paves the way for one’s further mental build, the Yamas and Niyamas are the rock-bottom of Yoga.
The tonic of Yamas & Niyamas will provide the power and courage needed to face all obstacles. The Yama-Niyama process constitutes the instructions in yoga psychology, which should give us sufficient warning on the path and make us vigilant pilgrims on the spiritual journey. ~ Sri Swami Krishnananda. What are the 10 Sacred Principles? Here is a brief overview for you in both traditional Sanskrit language and translated into the Western meaning.
1. Ahimsa
Kindness and Compassion
Non-Harming towards all living things. In thoughts, in actions, in words. This must first begin with ourselves in the form of self-love. Practice loving kindess towards yourself first and the energy of those around you becomes more gentle and kind.
2. Satya
Truthfulness
Living in integrity. Speaking your truth and living an authentic life without trying to be something or someone that isn't in alignment with your values. Not lying to yourself or others. Acknowledging that truth is not rigid, it flows and changes just as you do.
3. Asteya
Non-Stealing
Taking only what is yours. In a world addicted to consuming, we often take more than what we require which takes away from others who lack basic needs. It also can lead to a negative effect on our environment. Not stealing opportunities from yourself or others by not living up to your full potential.
4. Brahmacharya
Non-Excess or Moderation
Embracing life’s pleasures without reckless abandon. Seeing the Divine in everything. It allows you to indulge in the pleasures of life but having the awareness to know when you've had "enough". By seeing the Divine in everything we can appreciate what we have and will experience unlimited abundance.
5. Aparigraha
Non-attachment, Non-Greed
Letting go of the need to control thoughts, people, situations and outcomes. When you let go of things/people/circumstances that hold you down, you create space for lightness and unlimited opportunity. In this non-attachment, you are also asked to not define yourself by your possessions. If you attach your identity to your "stuff" who will you be if your "stuff" goes away?
6. Saucha
Purity and Simplicity
In all things: Body, Mind, Spirit & Surroundings. Simplify the way you nourish your body, the way you consume information, the roles and responsibilities you take on, the way you live your life. Declutter your home and create a sacred space. Become friends with silence and stillness to purify the mind and spirit.
7. Santosha
Contentment
Find true joy and happiness with where you are regardless of the external circumstance or challenge. Become fully accountable (and thus empowered) for where you are in your life. Practice gratitude for what you have and embrace each moment exactly the way it is. Stop wishing things were different than what they are.
8. Tapas
Burning Commitment, Self-Discipline
The determination to go on when faced with obstacles and challenges and welcoming the struggles that lead to growth and expansion. Understand that the mind likes to give up before our spirit does. Follow through with responsibilities and keep the commitments and agreements you've made to yourself and to others.
9. Svadhyaya
Self-Study
Observe your actions, your ego and continuously seek out opportunities to learn about your Self. Live in a state of awareness to notice and question all of your decisions and behaviours (both positive and negative). Read spiritual texts to continuously learn and grow while you develop the skill of self-inquiry and self-reflection.
10. Ishvara Pranidhana
Surrender
Acknowledge that there is a Divine force at work and have faith that it will lead you on the right path. Learn to live in the “Flow” of life rather than fight against the current. Surrender isn't about giving up or quitting, it's about the powerful freedom that comes with knowing we are all part of a bigger plan.
To learn more about The Yoga Code™ you can visit Jackie's page here
Breathing the Exquisite Breath
Brittany
Please join us for an amazing breath journey on Saturday, March 30th from 2:30-4:30.
To learn even more about Brittany, you can click here
Patrick Creelman - February 12th!
Patrick is a certified Anusara teacher, masterful and well-versed with advanced alignment. Through years of dedicated study he has developed a high level of personal practice and an expert eye in helping students achieve new levels in their own physical yoga practice and philosophical understanding.
Patrick is widely considered as one of the most experienced and inspiring "Teacher's Teacher" in Asia.
Well established throughout China and Asia, Patrick has a global community that also extends throughout Europe, North America, and South Africa. His classes include a philosophically based thematic focus, clear anatomy, and alignment for both simple and complex poses within a strong fluid practice.
Patrick will be at Yogalife Studios South on February 12th. The Master Class runs from 2-5pm (for teachers and dedicated students) and the Strength & Intelligence workshop runs from 7-9pm (open for all levels of practitioners). Click here to register!
Patrick doesn't post a lot of videos, but here's a sneak peak of him in action!
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