Tips for Improving Your Posture

Hi, yogis! I hope your pre-Thanksgiving week is going well and that you're staying as stress-free as possible as the holiday season heats up. :)

So, I have a question for you...

I'm curious: how do you feel about your posture?

If you practice yoga regularly, chances are you're pretty aware of your spinal alignment and stance during standing poses, and things like whether you're lifting your chest, rounding your back, or lacking muscular engagement in a pose.

But how is your posture while you're off your yoga mat? Do you notice your posture when you're working, watching TV, driving in the car, or otherwise moving about your day? Do you spend a lot of time on your feet, or seated at a desk? 

And do you have friends, family, or colleagues who suffer from discomfort or pain which might be related to poor posture?

This post is for you! I believe this post is for every one, actually... we all have moments where we forget to notice our posture, and it can lead to feeling stiff or uncomfortable, straining our bodies unnecessarily, or aggravating old injuries. Here are some simple ways to improve your posture, starting today.

5 Simple Ways to Improve Your Posture

1. Notice your body. Check in with the following areas: your head, neck and shoulders; your arms and legs; your torso; your hips; your upper, middle and lower back; your feet. Where do you notice pain or discomfort? Where do you feel most stable, or unstable? Which areas feel tight or like they've been neglected? Start paying close attention to these areas, and noticing your body alignment.

2. Increase your daily movement routine. Posture is linked to your overall health, and so is the amount of movement you're getting each day. Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, whether it's walking, running, biking, yoga, swimming, or whatever other activities you enjoy.  By improving your mobility and flexibility, your body will become more comfortable in standing and sitting positions, and you'll have a stronger sense of body awareness.

3. Try LumoLift. I've been using this amazing posture coach tool and I love how effective and simple it is. I simply clip the little magnetic device to my shirt or collar and wear it around throughout my day; if I start to slouch for 15 seconds or longer, the LumoLift vibrates for a moment, reminding me to sit up straight. I find this is especially helpful during my workday, so I remember to have great posture while I'm in front of the computer. What's awesome is that I can also track my daily steps using the LumoLift app on my phone! I'll definitely be suggesting the LumoLift to my yoga students and highly recommend checking it out. It would make a wonderful stocking stuffer this year, too (and it comes in a ton of different colors)!

4. Talk to your yoga teacher, fitness coach, chiropractor, doctor, or other health professional about your posture. Ask for information and insight from those you trust.

5. Track your progress. Keep a checklist or small calendar with you, and mark down some notes each day about how your posture is improving. Set specific goals for yourself, and ask others to help you stay accountable. You could also consider having a friend take a daily or weekly photo of you, so you can see how your posture is looking.

Do you have any tips for improving your posture? I'd love to hear!

Photos by Ken Johnson of CKCImage.com (1, 5), Brynna Bryant of Respiro Photography (2, 3, 6), and Lucid Reflections (4).

Yogi Surprise October: Celebrating Abundance

This is a wonderful time of year to cultivate gratitude for the abundance in our lives.

The air is colder and the nights are longer, giving us a stronger desire to turn inward and spend time in our cozy homes, share sweet moments with loved ones, and take more rest.

The theme for Yogi Surprise October is harvest celebration. These were my favorite items from the Yogi Surprise October box, all of which give me reasons to celebrate fall, to find gratitude for abundance, and to take time to reflect and rest.

rareEARTH Naturals Meditation Travel Tin Spa Candle

I've been lighting this candle in the evenings when I write in my journal. I love the invigorating scent of balsam, lavender and sandalwood; the candle helps me feel calm and present.

Banyan Botanicals Daily Massage Oil

This oil is lovely! Do you practice abhyanga, or a daily morning ritual of self-massage with warm oil? Truly a life-changing practice that can help set the tone for your day and help to calm your entire nervous system. If you've never tried it, read this article from Banyan Botanicals on Ayurvedic self-massage.

Living Raw Organic Coconut Karma Truffles

These are amaaaaazing. Best chocolates I've had in a long time, not only flavor wise but you can tell the handmade truffles have high-quality raw cacao. I went to order more but they're already sold out on their website! (No surprise.) Highly recommend!!

First and last photos in this post by Brynna Bryant of Respiro Photography.

Calling All Yogi Cyclists

Hi yogis! I hope your week is off to an awesome start.

So, I'm curious: do you ever bike to yoga class? Do you like to take cycling adventures on the weekend, so you can practice yoga in the park or take your mat with you on a hike?

Practicing outdoors is an amazing way to change up your practice, and connect inward without any distractions.

When Sponsored Yogini Kels and I heard about the new incredible invention called MyMogi, I was stoked. 'How has someone not created this yet?!' I thought, reflecting back on my days living in Chicago when I biked everywhere.

A perfect yoga mat carrying bag that connects effortlessly to your bike rack?!

YES. Yes. (Duh!)

I was excited for Kelsie to have the chance to try out the Mogi bag, and she absolutely loves it.

If you're a cyclist who loves yoga, or a yogi who wants to get more into cycling, this Mogi bag is definitely for you. I can think of several friends and fellow teachers who would adore this bag as much as any other yoga prop, so I'm setting my intention to share as many of these as I can!

Mogi is currently on Kickstarter and I encourage you to check out the brand and support a fellow entrepreneur who is out changing the world for the better.

A big heartfelt thanks from Alive in the Fire and the Sponsored Yogis team for sharing Mogi with the world, and cheers to all you cycling yogis out there who are going to love using Mogi!

Namaste.

PS Learn more about Mogi on their website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

What to Look for In a Pair of Yoga Pants

Yogis, I'm sure you've been there before: you're at your favorite studio, five minutes into class, and you realize... "Sh*t. These yoga pants suck!"

Or maybe you're new to yoga and trying to decide where to shop.

Well, let me help you out a little bit 

:)

What makes a pair of yoga pants awesome?

To me, finding a wonderful pair of leggings to wear to yoga is about three things:

1. Comfort.

I like my yoga pants to fit snugly, but not so snug that they're uncomfortable. Yoga pants should be comfy enough that I can wear them for half the day, or more. 

2. Performance.

Do the yoga pants move around too much while I'm practicing, or do they stay put? Do I feel hot when I wear them, or is the material breathable, so if I start to sweat I don't feel stuffy or overheated? Consider how well your yoga wear will perform as you practice, especially if there's heat involved.

3. Fun design.

Let's be honest-- the new trends in yoga wear offer a variety of fun, creative print designs. Long gone are the days of boring yoga pants!

My new favorite yoga pants?

Ginger Orange

. I've been wearing my awesome

purple leggings

 a lot lately and I've noticed that they are super comfortable and they stay put when I practice. Plus, they're gorgeous!

On the Ginger Orange website it says that their brand offers "activewear for rebel yogis, urban nomads and barefoot hippies." Now that's an awesome approach for yoga pants, if you ask me!

Photos in this post by Ken Johnson of CKCImage.com, featuring

classic royal purple Ginger Orange leggings

What to Look for in a Pair of Yoga Pants: A Guide to Style, Comfort, and Functionality

Finding the perfect pair of yoga pants can feel like searching for the holy grail of activewear. They need to be comfortable, functional, and stylish—all while keeping up with your most dynamic moves. With countless options on the market, how do you choose the right pair for your practice?

Whether you're flowing through vinyasas, holding a warrior pose, or lounging post-practice, here’s a guide on what to look for in a pair of yoga pants.

1. Comfort Is Key

Comfort is non-negotiable when it comes to yoga pants. Since yoga often involves bending, stretching, and holding poses, your pants should move with you without causing irritation or restriction.

What to Consider:

• Soft, Breathable Fabric: Look for materials like cotton blends, bamboo, or high-quality synthetics that feel soft against your skin and allow airflow.

• Seam Placement: Flatlock seams prevent chafing and ensure that the pants feel smooth against your skin.

• Stretchability: Opt for fabrics with four-way stretch, which allow for maximum movement in all directions.

Pro Tip: Always try them on or check return policies if shopping online. Walk around, bend, and stretch to ensure they don’t dig in or feel restrictive.

2. A Flattering and Functional Fit

The fit of yoga pants plays a significant role in both your confidence and your performance. The right pair should hug your body without feeling too tight or too loose.

Types of Fits:

• High-Waisted: Provides tummy control, stays in place during movements, and offers a sleek silhouette.

• Mid-Waisted: A versatile option for those who prefer less coverage without risking slippage.

• Compression Fit: Great for high-intensity or power yoga, as they provide added support and muscle recovery.

• Relaxed Fit: Ideal for slower practices like yin or restorative yoga, offering more room for ease of movement.

Pro Tip: Avoid pants that feel overly tight at the waistband or around the knees. They should feel snug but never restrictive.

3. Fabric Matters

The fabric of your yoga pants determines how they perform, especially during sweaty sessions or challenging poses.

Key Features to Look For:

• Moisture-Wicking: Keeps sweat away from your skin, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable during intense practices like hot yoga.

• Breathability: Lightweight and breathable fabrics prevent overheating.

• Durability: High-quality fabrics maintain their shape and color, even after multiple washes and stretches.

Common Materials:

• Nylon-Polyester Blends: Known for their stretch, durability, and quick-drying properties.

• Cotton Blends: Soft and breathable but may lack moisture-wicking abilities.

• Eco-Friendly Options: Bamboo and recycled materials are excellent choices for sustainability-minded yogis.

Pro Tip: Check for a gusseted crotch (a triangular or diamond-shaped piece of fabric) to prevent tearing and enhance flexibility.

4. Length and Style for Your Practice

Yoga pants come in various lengths and styles, each suited to different preferences and types of yoga.

Length Options:

• Full-Length (Leggings): Great for cooler weather or providing full coverage during inversions.

• 7/8 Length: Hits just above the ankle, offering a modern and versatile look.

• Capri-Length: Perfect for warmer climates or more dynamic practices.

• Shorts: Ideal for hot yoga or when you want maximum breathability.

Style Features:

• Minimalistic Designs: Solid colors or subtle patterns work well for a classic, versatile look.

• Bold Prints and Patterns: Express your personality and add a playful vibe to your practice.

• Pockets: Functional for carrying essentials like your phone or keys (especially if you’re wearing them outside the studio).

5. Waistband Design and Stay-Put Power

A good waistband can make or break your yoga pants. It’s essential that the waistband stays in place, especially during inversions or flows.

Types of Waistbands:

• Elastic Waistbands: Lightweight but may dig in or roll down during movement.

• Wide Waistbands: Provide a secure, flattering fit and prevent rolling or slipping.

• Drawstring Waistbands: Allow for adjustability, though they may not be as sleek.

Pro Tip: Test the waistband by performing forward folds, backbends, and side stretches to ensure it stays put.

6. Transparency Test

No one wants to worry about see-through yoga pants during downward dog! Ensuring your pants are squat-proof is a must for confidence during practice.

How to Check for Transparency:

• Bright Lighting Test: Stand in bright light or natural sunlight and bend over to check for visibility.

• Fabric Thickness: Thicker, higher-quality fabrics tend to be more opaque.

• Double-Lined Material: Some yoga pants include an extra layer in key areas for added coverage.

7. Durability and Longevity

Yoga pants are an investment, so you’ll want a pair that lasts through countless sessions and washes.

What to Look For:

• Reinforced Seams: Ensure the pants won’t unravel or lose shape.

• Pilling Resistance: Choose fabrics that resist pilling, especially if you use a mat with a textured surface.

• Shape Retention: High-quality materials should snap back into shape after stretching.

Pro Tip: Read reviews to see how the pants hold up over time, particularly in high-use areas like the knees and waistband.

8. Sustainability and Ethical Practices

For eco-conscious yogis, choosing sustainable yoga pants aligns with the practice of ahimsa (non-harming). Many brands now offer options made from eco-friendly materials and ethical labor practices.

Sustainable Materials:

• Recycled Polyester: Made from post-consumer waste like plastic bottles.

• Organic Cotton: Produced without harmful chemicals or pesticides.

• Bamboo: A renewable resource that’s soft, breathable, and biodegradable.

Pro Tip: Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fair Trade labels to ensure ethical production.

9. Versatility Beyond the Mat

The best yoga pants transition seamlessly from the studio to your everyday life. Look for styles that pair well with casual tops or sweaters so you can go from class to errands with ease.

Versatile Features:

• Neutral colors like black, navy, or gray.

• Pockets for convenience.

• Stylish patterns or details that elevate their look.

10. Budget and Value

While premium yoga pants often come with a higher price tag, they’re usually worth the investment for their durability and performance. That said, there are affordable options that deliver great quality if you’re on a budget.

Budget Tips:

• Look for sales, discounts, or end-of-season deals from trusted brands.

• Consider multipurpose leggings that work for yoga, running, and lounging.

• Test affordable options but pay attention to transparency, durability, and fit.

11. Brands to Explore

While personal preference plays a big role, here are a few brands known for high-quality yoga pants:

• Lululemon: Famous for durability and sleek designs.

• Athleta: Offers inclusive sizing and eco-friendly options.

• Alo Yoga: Combines performance with high-fashion aesthetics.

• Girlfriend Collective: Sustainable and stylish, made from recycled materials.

• Old Navy Active: Affordable options with great performance.

Pro Tip: Read customer reviews to find the best pair for your body type and practice.

Conclusion: The Perfect Yoga Pants for You

Choosing the right pair of yoga pants comes down to your unique needs, preferences, and practice. Prioritize comfort, functionality, and durability, and don’t forget to test them in real-life movements before committing. The perfect pair will not only enhance your yoga practice but also make you feel confident and at ease, whether you’re on the mat or off.

Happy practicing—and happy pant hunting! 🧘‍♀️✨

Don't Be Stinky After Yoga Class

Do you sweat a lot in yoga? Do you practice in a heated studio?

Well, this post is for you :) 

(And by the way, I do both of those things, too!)

Here are some ideas about how to refresh before and after a sweaty practice.

Come to class having showered and brushed your teeth. You can also do oil pulling or use a tongue scraper. 

Please refrain from eating pungent foods right before class, smoking a cigarette on the way in, or wearing unwashed clothes from the previous day's practice.

Simple saucha practices go a long way!

Use a yoga mat spray like Mat Mist. This amazing, aromatherapeutic spray comes in scents such as Sandalwood lavender geranium, Thyme Douglas fir, Lemon myrtle peppermint vetiver and Colloidal silver water.

What's especially rad about Mat Mist is that all you have to do is spray down your mat after class, roll it up, and go. The essential oils will disinfect your mat without requiring you to wipe it down, plus, next time you practice, there's a little scent there to awaken your senses and encourage deep pranayama breathing.

Sponsored yogini Kelsie recently tried the product... she took it to class and not only did she love it, but she said all the yogis around her loved it and were asking where they could find some :) She also sprays it around her house because it's that good (!!) and she loves that it is all organic and natural.

Shower right after class, and do a pre-rinse of your yoga clothes, towel, and headband before washing them in the washing machine. You can wring them out by hand and also consider having a laundry detergent with baking soda.

Once every few weeks, let your mat air out. Some mats do well in the sunshine and others don't, so be sure to check whether your mat should be left in the sun (you can usually find this info on the manufacturer's website, and I know for sure that Jade yoga mats do not like sun!).

What other things do you do to stay fresh before and after a yoga class?

Photos in this post by Tom Huynh.

PS 4 tips to naturally control body odor.

Bringing saucha, one of the niyamas, into your life.

“The body is your temple.  Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in.” – B.K.S. Iyengar

Energizing Snacks

What are the best foods for yogis to eat before and after class? 

This is a question I often return to, especially on days when I have intense, sweaty workouts and need to keep my energy levels up.

Recently lovely sponsored yogini Kels was given a chance to try some yummy GoMacro macrobars, and these may be our new favorite pre- and post-yoga snacks...

GoMacro loves flavor. Healthy, wholesome, flavor. They’re macrobiotic, meaning they’re made from wholesome ingredients. 

They are minimally processed and help you maintain health and balance in your life. 

Go Macro’s mantra is that if nature didn’t make it, they don’t use it in their bars. They’re delicious, nutritious and life-giving.

My favorites are the GoMaco Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and the Apple Walnut. Trust me on this one.

What snacks do you like to eat before or after a workout?

I'd love to hear! 

A heartfelt Namaste to the team at GoMacro and to Kelsie for sharing her review :)

Photos in this post courtesty of Kelsie and from GoMacro.

Finding Time in Silence (A Book Excerpt to Get You Grounded)

Do you spend time in silence?

I love being in a calm, quiet environment, whether I'm practicing yoga or just relaxing. I tend to be very noise sensitive so taking time away from sounds helps me feel calm, both physically and mentally.

Recently I read On the Verge: Wake Up, Show Up,and Shine, a great book for inspiration about how to settle the mind, shift out of 'overthinking' mode, and live purposefully. Here's a lovely little excerpt from author Cara Bradley on how to make use of time in silence.

Finding Time in Silence

An Excerpt from On the Verge: Wake Up, Show Up,and Shine

I’ve grown to appreciate that silence truly is golden. It settles and steadies me in a matter of minutes. I didn’t always feel this way. I used to surround myself with noise. I’d fall asleep with the television blaring, have music playing in my car and home, and talk, talk, talk until my throat was sore. Now I seek silence every day.

There are two types of noise and two types of silence — outer and inner. It’s important to understand the difference.

Outer Noise

Outer noise is the stuff you hear in your environment: talking, music, machines humming. Are you aware that there’s noise almost everywhere you go these days? Music plays in stores, restaurants, and hotel lobbies. Beeps, gongs, and whistles sound all around us. News is broadcast 24/7. Our species is overstimulated with outer noise. We are conditioned to require constant music and entertainment. It’s become the norm.

Inner Noise

Inner noise is the phenomenon of being in a quiet room yet feeling as though a whole crowd of people are talking to you all at once. It’s the voices in your head continually reminding you to do this or to figure out that. Inner noise is your busy mind in action, continuously bouncing around from one thought to the next and filling your mind with constant chatter.

Outer Silence

You can stop the incessant outer noise by finding pockets of outer silence. Turn off the noisemakers such as your laptop or television. Your mind and nervous system will naturally settle down. Your car is a great place to find outer silence — this means turning off the news, music, and your phone. Drive in silence, and you turn your car into a four-wheeled Zen center. Take a few minutes of peace and quiet. Take control of outer-noise pollution in your car, office, and home, and you’ll notice a shift in your energy right away.

Inner Silence

Inner silence cannot be found by shutting down your computer or by being alone in your bedroom. Inner silence emerges from the space beyond your busy mind. You can’t force it to emerge or make it stay. Inner silence arises from your natural state — when your mind is calm. It’s a sense of being quiet from the inside out, when your mind is steady and your body is relaxed. You can learn to access inner silence through practice.

Inner silence leaves an indelible mark. It feels like coming home. It feels so good to be steady and stable. It feels so good to be energized and in harmony. It feels like home to be in sync. Once you get to know inner silence, you’ll want nothing else but to live in that space all the time. 

Cara Bradley is the author of On the Verge.  She has taught yoga, meditation, and fitness internationally for more than thirty years and is the founder of Verge Yoga.   Visit her online at www.carabradley.net.  Excerpted from the book On the Verge: Wake Up, Show Up, and Shine. Copyright © 2016 by Cara Bradley. Printed with permission from New World Library. 

If you're looking for ways to make positive change in your life, I'd highly recommend checking out On the Verge! The book is approachable, encouraging and filled with lots of creative ways to get out of your own head and start living your life in a way that is fulfilling and engaged.

Photos of me in this post by Jobi Otso. 

Fun, Funky Shoes for Summer

Summer is here!

Well, not officially... but it sure feels like summer here in northern California :) 

Which for me means it's time to be barefoot or wearing comfortable, lightweight shoes. Recently I found the perfect pair from Iguaneye -- these little slip-ons are perfect for around the house, walking, hanging out on the beach, and kayaking (my favorite!).

I also like to wear them to and from the yoga studio, since they're perfect for on-the-go since they slip on. 

The other thing about Iguaneye that's rad is that these little shoes were inspired by the Amazonians. As the Iguaneye website reads, "Amazon Indians dipped their feet in the latex from hevea tree and smoked them in a fire to coagulate the rubber first tennis shoes...”

So cool!

Last weekend I wore these on our little kayak trip and was grateful to be comfortable during our walk on the trail down to the water.

These seamless slip-on shoes are lovely, and you can customize your order to pick any color combo for the sole and outer part of the shoe.

Plus, Iguaneye shoes feature little slits on the side for ventilation which means they don't get stinky and they dry out quickly. You can even opt to leave the sole part out.

Apparently the shoes are a big hit among minimalist runners, too, and are made from all recyclable material. 

I love my Iguaneye shoes and will definitely be rocking them all summer long!

What fun, funky summer shoes are you wearing?

Honoring the Divine Within (Yogi Surprise May Review)

Do you ever pause to honor how truly amazing you are? :)

I love that this month's Yogi Surprise box is themed around honoring the divine within.

As we transition from spring to summer, this is the perfect time of year to take a pause. Honor the changing energy, the momentum that picks up as summer arrives, with its heat and ferocity. Give yourself a moment to breathe and simply sit with what is.

Honor the changes that have happened to you so far this year, and recognize that the space you're in is only temporary; things will change again.


This may even be a good time to take a break from some of the activities and plans that have been keeping you in a rush. If you slow down and savor the moment, what do you notice?

Here's a lovely quote from the Yogi Surprise box -- maybe take a few minutes to sit somewhere quiet and reflect on it.

This is a moment to savor. A space between the day's demands to give yourself nourishing time to dive inward and shake off any mental turbulence that you've picked up throughout your day.

...Allow yourself the extra space to connect with your pure divine self that is connected with all living things.

It is from this place that true balance, creativity, and nourishment are alive and reside in us all.

Here my two favorite items from the box:

Energy Muse Chakra healing stones

These are lovely! I'm always grateful to add stones to my collection, and this set is complete with one for each chakra.

• root chakra: red jasper for stability
• sacral chakra: carnelian for creativity
• solar plexus chakra: citrine for willpower (citrine is my absolute favorite!)
• heart chakra: aventurine for love
• throat chakra: sodalite for communication
• third eye chakra: amethyst for intuition
• crown chakra: quartz crystal for clarity

Acure Organics Lip Lush lip gloss

This lip gloss makes me feel so pretty! :) I love that it's a subtle color and adds a lot of shine. It has argan oil and echinacea and has a really nice texture, too. My new favorite makeup item (and I hardly ever wear makeup).

Be kind to yourself! XO

PS In these photos I'm wearing my favorite necklace from The Sattva Collection. If you like it or are interested in finding a beautiful piece of high-vibration jewelry, check them out! And save $10 on your order using the coupon code ALIVEINTHEFIRE. Namaste, loves.

A Book for Finding Peace and Letting Go of Disappointment

Do you find it challenging to manage your expectations? How do you react when things don't turn out the way you hoped they would?

In her book Expectation Hangover, author and life coach Christine Hassler explores these questions and other ideas related to accepting disappointment, going through life transitions, and finding emotional healing. The book is filled with useful exercises, guided meditations and personal stories.

Today on the blog sponsored yogi Yani shares her review of the book :) Enjoy!

A Review of Expectation Hangover by Yani

I'm a person that fills her time with the many things she obsesses about and is passionate about. I'm also a person that is really bad at slowing down to read, drink warm lemon water, and kind of just slowing the fuck down (though sometimes I do love to relax, be a homebody, and kick it). Another note about me, I have a hard time finishing an entire book through- unless I have absolutely nothing to do, and can get lost in a new world. I read it part by part, slowly. I tend to read when it's calling me; I don't like to force a good read. 

Expectation Hangover: Free Yourself from Your Past, Change your Present & Get What You Really Want had been sitting on my glass table, along with a few other books, waiting to find their way in my to mind. I picked it up one day and carried it around with me so that when the moment called, I would be ready. I drove up to the DMV, without an appointment, grabbed the book in my AmeriCorps bag, and got lost in a new world while I waited in line and sat awaiting my number. 

As always, I read what was destined to find its way in to my mind. I felt moments of epiphanies; I felt my worlds coming full circle. One of the greatest lessons I took away from my short escape was: holding onto expectations is setting the heart and mind up for failure. Goals and ambitions are in place to guide you, but to expect is to put all your eggs in one basket. Create, have faith, and see what finds its way to you as a reality in your world. We have full control of ourselves, but limited control of life.  

In my reading I found a humbling mindset, a mindful way of being. It allowed me to make peace, let go, and ground myself. 

I love that this is an interactive reading, encouraging you to journal and reflect. I look forward to moving onward with this journey, and what this book shall reveal to me. 

One of my favorite quotes from the book:

"We all love control because the unknown is downright scary. In fact, I think control has become the master addiction. But the truth is we really don't have complete control over our lives, and nothing illuminates that truth more brightly than an Expectation Hangover."

Thanks, Yani, for your awesome review and a big thanks to the team at New World Library for offering the opportunity to check out this book. Namaste.

PS Learn more about the author Christine Hassler and check out her interview with Huffington Post about how to overcome falling short of your expectations. Or take her quiz to find out if you have an expectation hangover.

Yogi Surprise April

This month's Yogi Surprise box is themed around nature, which fits perfectly with my recent relocation to the north coast of California :)

I'm living in the coastal town of Eureka, near beaches and really tall redwood trees. It's certainly a gorgeous area and I can't wait to do more exploring as I get settled in.

 

I'm so grateful I had my Yogi Surprise box goodies to enjoy during these last few weeks, especially with all the chaos and stress of moving! I was also happy to use several of my old beautiful lavender boxes for packing small items, like my essential oils and some spices from the kitchen ;) Thanks, Yogi Surprise!

Here were my favorite items from the April box:

Organic tangerine ginger tea from Rishi

This yummy blend is perfect for rainy mornings, or in the evening with a spoonful of local honey mixed in. I love the vibrant color that the hibiscus brings out, too!

Go Raw Choco Crunch Sprouted Cookies

and

Stoneridge Orchards Montmorency Tart Cherries

Healthy snacks for on-the-go? Perfect for a long drive or a long day packing and unpacking boxes. Both of these were delicious!

Rescue Plus Stress Relief Lozenges 

Love the citrus-y taste and the way these instantly make me feel a little calmer. 

How has your April been going, yogis? Sending a heartfelt namaste your way...

Life is Good (A Post on Gratitude Lists)

Do you ever make gratitude lists?

This is one simple practice that I find to be immensely helpful, especially during times of transition or struggle. Simply by taking a few moments each day to focus on what I'm grateful for, I can re-center.

Today my gratitude list is inspired by Life is Good, a brand that knows how to focus on happiness ;) I'm a big fan of the new shirt they gifted to me, which says, Dream until your dreams come true.

Life is Good: Today's Gratitude List

1. My yoga community. Feeling loved and supported.

2. Having mentors-- especially strong women who are wise and generous-- and having their ongoing support.

3. Being open to change. In just a few weeks, my family and I will be moved north to the coast in Eureka! More updates coming soon :)

4. Sunshine.

5. Teaching a class and hearing afterward what the impact was for the yogis in the room.

6. Headstands.

7. Being able to talk to friends and family when I'm stressed.

8. Dog hugs.

9. A glass of wine in the evening.

10. Hugs from people I love.

Photo by Brynna Bryant of Respiro Photography.

What are you grateful for today?

Spring Cleaning (Yogi Surprise March Review)

This month's Yogi Surprise box is all about spring cleaning, which I love. Lately I've been working on projects around the house to declutter and organize, and I'm noticing that afterward I feel a sense of accomplishment, and I feel more at ease and more focused when I'm working.

Do you do spring cleaning at this time of year, yogis? Here are my top five spring cleaning projects to do.

Photo by Brynna Bryant of Respiro Photography.

5 Simple Spring Cleaning Projects

• Donate old clothes. Go through your closet and find clothing that no longer fits or that you don't use much. Give it to friends, family, or Goodwill.

• Scrub your yoga mat. Give your mat a good deep cleaning. See below for some great mat spray ideas, or just use a simple vinegar, water and essential oil mix. Enjoy practicing on a clean surface that's inviting :)

• Declutter one room at a time. If you've only got 15 minutes to spend cleaning up or organizing, be efficient with your time. Focus on one area of a room until it's complete, then move on to the next. 

• Clean your fridge. Also consider cleaning up your diet for a few days, incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables, drinking a smoothie for breakfast every day, or taking a break from alcohol. Write down some new recipes. Commit to a new health goal, and give yourself permission to be imperfect in the process of accomplishing it!

• Write about what it's like when things are clean and uncluttered. What does it feel like to have this new space? What happens to your thoughts and emotions when your physical space is well taken care of?

Photo by Brynna Bryant of Respiro Photography.

My two favorite items from the March Yogi Surprise box, which are also helping with my spring cleaning:

The Little Red Book of Yoga Wisdom, edited by Kelsie Besaw

This little book has lots of great yoga quotes. I like opening it to a random page in the morning for an idea to ponder, or an idea for themes for when I'm about to teach a class. My two favorites this week:

Let your practice be a celebration of life. 

- Seido Lee DeBarros

Mindfulness helps you go home to the present. And every time you go there and recognize a condition of happiness that you have, happiness comes.

- Thich Nhat Hahn

I like the idea that spring cleaning also declutters your mind, and this little book is a daily reminder of that!

Gypsy Soul Organics Aromatherapeutic Natural Yoga Mat Cleaner 

This stuff smells amazing, and it works so well at making my mat feel clean after a sweaty class! Highly recommend it.

Best of luck with all your spring cleaning projects, and feel free to suggest more ideas in the comments below :)

PS More spring cleaning ideas:

Awesome de-cluttering tips from Zen Habits. 

Spring cleaning tips, room by room.

And a post on how cleaning at the yoga studio is like a form of meditation.