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.

PS Regardless of what yoga pants you're wearing, I think you're beautiful.

Summer Sun Salutation (Yogi Surprise July Review)

Are you enjoying your summer, yogis?

I can't believe July is already halfway over! Hope you're enjoying slow, sunny days whenever you can. The summer season is one of my favorites, and I've been especially grateful for cooler weather on the coast lately.

I made a trip to visit friends and family in the Sacramento area last week and it was over 100 degrees-- too hot for me! When we returned to the green forests and cool breezes up here in Humboldt County, I felt quite relieved :)

I love that summer encourages us to celebrate. To be outdoors. To invigorate our hearts, be creative, and strengthen our determination!

I believe with all the heat and passion of summer, it's also important to find ease and balance even in this active time of year.

What are some of your favorite ways to wind down on warm summer nights?

I absolutely love my new Yogi Surprise July box, which was filled with summer essentials to help me relax and unwind.

These are my three favorite products from the box:

Shea Radiance whipped shea butter with apricot oil. Oh. My. Goodness. This stuff is incredible! I've been using it on my feet at bedtime and it feels so luxurious. It's also great for moisturizing my feet, especially the area around my heels which has been dry and a little cracked lately from walking around barefoot and going to the beach. I'll definitely be buying a new stash of this amazing butter after I run out.

Gypsy Soul Organics sun salutation salve. This little guy is my new favorite lip balm. It's now at home in the easiest-to-reach-pouch of my purse -- 'nuff said :)

Manduka Equa yoga hand towel. This super-soft microfiber towel absorbs sweat quickly, and is now an essential in my gym bag or whenever I take a sweaty hot yoga class. It's perfect for someone like me, because as you know, I sweat a lot! :) I'm grateful that Yogi Surprise has partnered with Manduka because I believe they're one of the best brands out there for yoga gear (you can read my review of their lightweight travel mat, or check out how much the Sponsored Yogis team loved their cushy, supportive eKo mats.)

Cheers to keeping cool, calm, and refreshed all weekend, and throughout the rest of summer, too! Namaste.

Have a Beautiful Weekend

What are you up to this weekend? I'm excited to get a haircut, spend time outside in the sunshine, and go for a cruise on the water in Eureka and taste oysters. 

Hope you have a refreshing summery weekend, and here are a few fun links from around the web...

Are you traveling this summer? Here's a great 30-minute yoga practice for travelers from The Journey Junkie. Sneak it into your day, between driving or flying, so you don't get stiff.

A fun and simple dating tip for keeping the sparks alive.

Pranayama for introverts.

Building your brand as a yoga teacher.

Iced vanilla bean matcha latte. Um, yes?!

5 yoga postures for creativity.

And a few Alive in the Fire posts from this week, in case you missed them:

On setting goals.

Four little life-changing words.

Advice from real-life yoga teachers on how to sequence a class.

How do you define abundance?

Cheers to a fun weekend!

Benefits of Warrior I, II and III (Virabhadrasana I, II and III)

Photos by Respiro Photography featuring Sporti Studio neon nights leggings from Yoga Outlet.

Do you ever wonder why we do Warrior poses in yoga class?

Today I wanted to share some info about the benefits of Virabhadrasana I, II and III, as well as some tips for safe alignment in these postures.

Benefits of Warrior I, II and III (Virabhadrasana I, II and III)

• Warrior poses build strength. In these poses, you cultivate a sense of joyful determination; even while your muscles quiver, you have the opportunity to tune in to your breath and set your focus on the present moment.

• Warrior poses increase flexibility in the hips.

• Virabhadrasana I, II and III tone the muscles in the legs, ankles and feet.

• The Warrior poses allow you to practice a balance between effort (sthira) and ease (sukha). There is major effort happening in some muscles of the body, yet the breath remains slow and even, and the gaze (dristi) is steady. 

Alignment Tips for Warrior I, II and III (Virabhadrasana I, II and III)

• Keep length in your lower back. Concentrate on lifting your abdomen and knitting your lower ribs together. Engage navel to spine; while your legs are doing a lot of work, your core is doing a lot of work, too. By removing a forward tilt in your pelvis, you'll avoid crunching in the low back.

• Be aware of where your knees and ankles are in space. The safest position for your knee joint is to stack it directly over your ankle. Notice if your knee is collapsing inward rather than tracking out toward your middle toes of your foot. 

• Press down through both feet. Notice that both your front foot and back foot are active in the pose.

PS My new favorite leggings to wear to yoga are the Sporti Studio Neon Nights leggings from Yoga Outlet. So comfortable, colorful and functional! I highly recommend shopping at Yoga Outlet or following them on Twitter or Instagram for fun workout clothes ideas.

Badass Women: Brittny

Photos courtesy of Brittny.

Today, I'm excited to share a new post in the Badass Women series.

Meet Brittny, an entrepreneur, artist, and yoga teacher. Brittny and I connected through her yoga apparel business, Twin Flame. Immediately I felt drawn to her positivity, her genuine smile, and her inspiring passion for life...plus, how awesome is it that we both love yoga and have a project with a name centered around 'fire?' :) It's an honor to share your story here on Alive in the Fire, Brittny!

What makes you a badass? 
I am not afraid to take risks. Not that long ago I quit my job and became my own boss. I had already started my own yoga apparel line, Twin Flame, and was surviving on income as a waitress. In March of this year I completed a crowd-funding campaign using Kickstarter and Twin Flame was funded just over $18,000. 

But I didn't stop there. The apparel business isn't easy and I needed a way to create a stable income while promoting Twin Flame. I created Bloom Branding which is an organic marketing, graphic design, retail merchandising and social media service for small businesses. Why not do for others what I have done for myself? I am also a yoga and fitness trainer working one on one with several clients every week. I am the CEO of my own life. 

How did you get where you are today? 
Manifestation and guidance from within! I knew the first time I opened my eyes from Savasana that I was going to take control of my life. 

Yoga has given me confidence, will power, freedom and pure love. 

Yoga guided me to my truest friend, myself. It wasn't until I fell in love with myself that I found my Twin Flame, the love of my life, Adam. 

Life isn't about money or success. Life is about love. I created business endeavors because the world we live in unfortunately runs on money. But it was my passion and devotion to live a meaningful life that brought me to where I am now. My intentions as an entrepreneur are to help others to do the same.

What do you do for yourself to rejuvenate? 
I practice yoga, of course, but I have a serious case of wanderlust! I absolutely crave new places and the unknown. There is nothing more refreshing than an adventure. At home I rejuvenate by spending time outdoors and surrounding myself with crystals and natural scents. I often seek divine guidance by pulling oracle cards and tapping into my spirituality.

What advice do you have for others who are looking to find happiness and become fully empowered? 
Stop looking for happiness. Happiness is already within you. Start following your heart, take risks and start living for YOU! 

How do you plan to continue your baddass-ery? ;) 
Currently I am working on an ambassador program for Twin Flame that will not only help the business grow but bring like-minds together for a beautiful cause. I have encountered some obstacles launching our non-profit program for youth yoga. But I will continue to press forward with an open mind and heart. Right now it is hard to see the future but I like surprises! ;P

Many thanks to Brittny for sharing her inspiring post! For more badass women, meet Sam, Sarah, and Justine.

Yoga Wear and The Ripple Effect

Photos by Respiro Photography.

'I just want to live a meaningful life.'

Isn't that a beautiful way of describing what happens when you follow your heart?

Yoga blogging is a lovely way to connect with like-minded souls. Over the years here at Alive in the Fire, I've discovered many brands created by yogis. 

Recently I connected with Brittny of Twin Flame yoga wear. As Brittny says, she was inspired to create Twin Flame as a way to share love. She didn't just want a profitable business, but she also wanted to create a more vibrant community and fund-raise to create a kid's yoga program. She wanted a more meaningful life.

Twin Flame is a lifestyle brand inspiring a happy, healthy and soulful life. While the clothing itself is beautiful, high-quality and functional, the passion behind the business goes much deeper than that.

What I love most about Brittny's story is that it reminds me of the ripple effect we have on everyone around us. Brittny sharing her passion for life and for yoga encourages those around her to do the same. Her students, her customers, even her contacts on the other side of the country -- we are all inspired by what she's doing.

In a similar way, my Sponsored Yogis program directly impacts amazing women who are near and far. I share love and compassion with them, and they share it with others.

As soon as I told Brittny about Sponsored Yogis, she was happy to share a shirt both with me and with Keyla from the Sponsored Yogis team. Her immediate response, in fact, was 'I manifested this!' It made me smile, knowing that she had invited this opportunity for us to connect, and to support each other.

We both hopped on Instagram and shared a little Twin Flame yoga love recently, and that love has a ripple effect out into the online yoga community as well.

I also shared Brittny's awesome website and story with my friend Brynna, who is a talented photographer I work with on a lot of shoots for Alive in the Fire. At our recent photo shoot on the Tower Bridge in Sacramento, I wore the Hamsa Racerback tank. 

Brynna loved hearing about Brittny's story and seeing the comfortable tank in action, and so she placed an order for a Twin Flame shirt. While this story isn't all that revolutionary or mind-blowing, it again points to some simple truths...

We are all connected.

And every action we take, every act of kindness we share, has an impact on those around us.

Now when I wear my Hamsa shirt, I am reminded of these beautiful yoginis who inspire and encourage me.

I am reminded to stay true to my passions, to live a meaningful life.

Life is way too short for us not to spend time doing the things we love, and sharing kindness and compassion with those around us.

We all have so much love to share.

Whether we're on our yoga mats, blogging, wandering the streets of Sacramento for a yoga shoot, or hanging out in sunny Florida creating custom yoga clothes... let's remember to have a positive impact on those around us.

Thank you, Brittny and team Twin Flame Yoga Love, for all that you're doing. Thank you for the awesome tank and for sending one to Keyla so we can dress like twins even though we're miles apart. :) Thank you, Keyla, for being a part of Sponsored Yogis. Can't wait to take a photo with you some day wearing our matching tanks. Thank you, Brynna, for capturing these lovely heartfelt moments. Maybe you can take that photo with me and Keyla, and we'll get Brittny in there too :)

Namaste, loves!

PS Follow us on Instagram:

Brittny of Twin Flame Yoga Love: @twinflameyogalove and @twinflameapparel

Brynna of Respiro Photography: @respirophoto

Keyla of Sponsored Yogis and Eat 2 Live 2 Day: @yogabgirl

Rachel of Alive in the Fire: @aliveinthefire

Eco-Friendly Yoga Wear

Photo via Balini Sportswear on Kickstarter.

As a yoga blogger, I'm always grateful to connect with other yogis who share an entrepreneurial spirit, and a giving heart.

Ada from Balini Sports is one such yogini. When she emailed me about her yoga wear company, I was immediately impressed by her passion for yoga and her generosity in sending me some sports bras to try out. It's a gift to be able to connect with people like Ada, and that's why today I'd love for you to check out her Kickstarter video. She's raising money so that she can continue to grow her business and generate awareness around the importance of creating environmentally friendly yoga wear.

Photos via Balini Sportswear.

The Balini Sports collection of yoga wear is incredibly comfortable, functional, and stylish, and made by a team who truly care about what they're doing. Ada is truly a gem, and I couldn't be happier for her and the incredible impact she's making in the yoga wear community. I hope you'll support her Kickstarter and check out the awesome clothes, too! Thanks, Ada, for all you do. Namaste.

PS The video features some incredible underwater yoga photography... and if you're into hot yoga, these clothes are perfect for you!

Holiday Gift Guide 2014, Continued

Photo via Pinterest.

Hi, yogis!

Today I’m bringing you more goodies for the 2014 Alive inthe Fire Holiday Gift Guide. I keep finding awesome gift ideas… and, maybe you’re like me, and you’re having trouble figuring out what to get for those few hard-to-buy-for people on your list :) Hope you enjoy these!

 

Sac Sierra Yoga Pass

If you’re a yogi living in northern California, this is an awesome deal to check out. For only $40, you can visit over 30 different yoga studios in the area, from downtown Sac all the way up to Auburn, Grass Valley and Placerville. The pass gets you a single drop-in at every participating studio between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2015. That’s an incredible deal, when you do the math! I just bought a pass and will be gifting some this year as well.

The Raw Food Beginner’s Deck

These handy cards feature simple, delicious raw food recipes. I love that they’re easy to carry and include information about the benefits of a raw food diet. Great stocking stuffer or gift for friends who are looking to be healthy in the new year!

You Are Beautiful

 

This project carries a simple message: You are beautiful! What a great reminder to have on a fun little silver sticker, t-shirt or mirror. I was lucky enough to receive the t-shirt from a friend, and it’s super comfy.

 

Kari Gran Skincare

Be kind to your skin: that’s the idea behind this lovely brand of beauty products. Love it! Their Starter Kit is amazing, and features a two-week supply of the Kari Gran skin care system. It includes essential serum, rose hydrating tonic, and cleansing oil in lovely little travel-size containers.

A Fun Bottle Opener

Nothing says ‘Let’s celebrate’ like this cute bottle opener!

A Darling House Plant

Wouldn’t this little guy look adorable in your kitchen, or even on the front desk at the yoga studio?

Yoga Mats, Blocks and Props

Every yogi knows the value of a great yoga block and a comfortable yoga mat. I am a fan of JBN WoodCraft and Manduka, which are fairly pricey, and if you're looking to shop for a wide variety of mats and props, try IYoga Props! The brand carries a wide variety of yoga mats, props, and yoga videos to help  you stay supported in your practice. I also love their blog as a wonderful resource on all things yoga!

Hurraw Lip Balm

Because it comes in dosha-specific flavors, and is the yummiest version of chapstick I’ve ever had.

YMX Yoga Gear

I know I mentioned YMX in the previous gift guide post, but wanted to include a quick update… YMX is featuring a wonderful holiday sale right now, featuring a free gift with purchase and free returns and exchanges! If you’d like to save an additional 35%, use my ambassador discount code at checkout: XMAS5. Cheers!

PS Here's the first part of the 2014 Yogi Holiday Gift Guide.

Weekend Announcements + Giveaway Winners!

Photo by Jobi Otso.

Happy Friday, lovely yogis! I have some exciting things going on around here at Alive in the Fire... first off, I'd like to announce the winners from the Black Friday week giveaways! :)

Congrats to Beth, the winner of the yoga and meditation apps, Jose, the winner of the yoga book, and Caro, the winner of the Yoga Download subscription. Please email me at aliveinthefire at gmail dot com to claim your lovely prizes!

I'm also excited to present the launch of my new blog design. I collaborated with the talented Rebecca Hawkes on the gorgeous watercolor-style header and absolutely love her work! I highly recommend her if you're in need of any graphic design :)

I'd love to hear your feedback, and as always, thank you so much for following along.

Finally, I'd like to invite you to stay tuned for an upcoming announcement about Sponsored Yogis 2015! I'll be accepting applications starting later this month, and I hope you'll check out the program.

Have a kick-ass weekend, and much love to you :)

PS If you missed it, the 2014 Yogi Holiday Gift Guide has some cool ideas for Christmas gifts.

Badass Yoga Gear from YMX

Photos by T. Libertiny.

Hi yogis :) Have you heard of YMX? It's one of my new favorite yoga and fitness apparel brands.

YMX makes high-performance workout gear that’s great for yoga, biking, running, and even skiing and snowboarding. I love that their style pairs perfectly with mine – functional, comfortable, sexy and a little badass!

I’m really stoked, too, that in being a part of their community, I’ll get to connect with other yogis who are passionate about being healthy and happy. Win-win!

During my trip to Park City last weekend, I was able to do some yoga and get a few photos while wearing my awesome YMX tank top. I love that the design reminds me of a lot of floral tattoos I’ve been seeing lately.

Do you usually like to wear yoga gear that’s bold and colorful like this?

Please stay tuned for more YMX updates and awesome chances to try their gear. Namaste!

PS You can connect with YMX on their website, Facebook, and Twitter.

What Does It Mean to Be a Yogi?

There are two steps on the spiritual path:

1. Begin.

2. Continue.

This rings true... the more I surrender to the practice, and the more I stick with it, the more yoga changes me for the better.

Recently a lovely friend of mine said, after taking my class, "You're not just a person who practices yoga. You're a yogi. You're actually living yoga in your life."

It meant a lot to me, especially since I often reflect on what this practice really means, and I keep coming back to the moments when I'm able to be more patient and kind with myself and others -- not really the yoga postures.

Yoga reminds me of how powerful it is to give: to offer help to those in need, to say thank you to those who support me, to treat myself and others with kindness and respect.

Yogi Bhajan says it this way: You are here to serve, here to lift, here to grace, here to give hope and action, to give the very deep love of your soul to all those who are in need.

Sometimes we get caught up in doing yoga 'perfectly' or having our poses look good... we forget that what we're really after is love. Love for ourselves. Love for others. Love for the moment, exactly as it is.

Next time you're on your mat, pause for a moment. Put your hand over your heart and notice everything that's happening, right now. Go within, and see what's really fueling your practice.

Both of the shirts in this post were given to me by the generous team at Yoga Outlet. I love that the seva shirt reminds me to give, and that the gold Ganesh shirt reminds me that the obstacles have been cleared out of my way, and that I am walking the path of my dharma. Both are comfortable and fit well, and when I wear them, I invite ease. Thank you, Yoga Outlet team, for helping me dress the part of a true yogi!

Introducing Sponsored Yogi Sam (Plus a Review of Prana Vida Yoga Wear)

Photos via Sam.

Hey all... happy weekend :) Hope you are relaxing and enjoying time with those you love.

Today I'm excited to introduce you to Sam, one of my lovely sponsored yogis. Sam has been practicing yoga for over 8 years, in a variety of styles: Bikram, Kundalini, Dhyana, Hatha, Dahn, and Yin. She also enjoys Pilates, cooking, working out, dancing, traveling, writing, painting, photography, and learning new languages.

When I read Sam's application for Sponsored Yogis, her compassion really resonated. As she says:

What is unique about me is my love for people and the ability to connect with anyone I encounter. I am an open spirit and I am willing to lay it all on the table. This characteristic easily puts others at ease, often moving them to do the same. 

My ability to connect with people from all backgrounds in short periods of time is partially due to growing up as an Air Force brat and living everywhere from Tucson, AZ to Incirlik, Turkey. My friends, family and coworkers are throughout the world. 

My background is in international security, Middle East, religion and sociology. I currently work for a government contractor in a typical DC job, and do freelance translation and editing on the side. 

As part of the Sponsored Yogis program, Sam received some rockin' yoga wear from Prana Vida. Here are her thoughts on the gear...

I was so excited when I received my package from Prana Vida! Amelia sent a pair of flow capris in Evergreen and a headband, racerback tank, and leggings in Fireside. Everything was true to size, great quality, and the material was so soft and lightweight.

I’m usually hesitant about buying pants or shorts with a foldover waistband, but I was pleased with the flow capris in Evergreen. The foldover waistband stays put throughout my practice, and the slit on the side keeps me cool and comfortable.

Prana Vida sells such fun patterns! I found the patterns to be a nice change from my usual black tank and black yoga pants. If you see a pattern that you like on the site, don’t wait to order what you have your eye on because the pattern choices change frequently as new ones become available.

I definitely recommend checking out Prana Vida Style! 

Sam has some awesome posts in the works about gratitude and life coaching -- stay tuned for those. Much love to all my sponsored yogis, and all of the amazing sponsors who donate to the program. Namaste.

Outdoor Adventures and Sports Gear for Yogis, Climbers and Hikers

With spring just around the corner, I'm starting to get excited for some adventures in the mountains. It's been far too long since I went camping, went hiking, or rock climbed outdoors!

I've always wanted to try mountain biking, too. Do you guys like going on outdoor adventures?

I recently discovered this awesome site called The Clymb, where you can find sports gear for a wide variety of activities -- everything from yoga clothes to cycling gear, camping supplies and running shoes. 

If I could pick any outfit for my next yoga in the park session, I'd have to go with this sexy top and sweet pair of leggings:

 

And for hiking and biking:

 

The site carries a lot of high-quality brands like Patagonia, PrAna, Lucy, Columbia and Adidas, but with discounts of up to 70% off retail prices. Very helpful for someone like me who would rather spend a reasonable amount on gear, and have more of my budget for traveling to cool locations to enjoy nature! :)

I'm thinking a trip to Tahoe is in order in the near future... and eventually I'd like to plan to take a few vacation days for a trip down to Yosemite, Death Valley or the coast up near Mendocino. I haven't gone exploring in forever, and it would feel really good to be away from the city and in a place where it's quiet enough to hear the wind through the trees, and dark enough at night to see the stars :)

Since I was a little girl, I've always loved being outdoors and traveling. When I was a kid, my dad would always take my brother, sister and me camping. I loved having no set schedule, and the way we'd let our days be determined by the sunrise and sunset rather than any specific plans. We'd wander on the trails and listen to him tell stories. We'd search for animal tracks and unusual birds. We were always on the look out for bears and poison oak, and we didn't mind when the red dirt got on our shoes.

Nothing quite compares to being away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and free from cars and noise and screen time :)

A few trips that are on my list for sure:

• climb in Moab with my friend who's grown up in Utah
• do a bicycle tour (1-2 weeks cycling and camping)
• hike in Alaska
• see the Grand Canyon
• explore the beaches in Thailand
• climb Half Dome
• teach yoga abroad as a guest teacher (at a studio or retreat center)

What excursions do you want to take this year?

PS What's the coolest place you've practiced yoga outdoors?

Gifts from the Heart: For Yoga Dudes

Photo via Yoga Dudes.

Today's shopping guide features gifts for guys who practice yoga...perfect for all the dudes who aren't afraid to roll out their mat, and for any guy who's into sports but hasn't tried a class yet!

Yoga Gifts for Men

The Ultimate Yogi DVD series (for a killer at-home workout for any yoga dude seeking a six pack).

A license plate surround (because he know's what's up!).

A t-shirt he can wear to class and to football parties (and because he loves beer and/or whiskey as much as rolling out his mat).

Some PrAna pants he can practice comfortably in (so he can stretch farther than ever).

Real Men Do Yoga: 21 Star Athletes Reveal Their Secrets for Strength, Flexibility and Peak Performance by John Capouya (for inspiration from athletes who practice).

Hell-Bent: Obsession, Pain, and the Search for Something Like Transcendence in Competitive Yoga by Benjamin Lorr (for a fascinating look at one Bikram yogi's wild journey).

 

A heavy-duty mat and towel from Manduka (so he won't slip after getting sweaty in class).

Photo via Pinterest.

Major props to all you dudes who yoga! You guys inspire me.

PS For more shopping ideas, see Alive in the Fire's gift guide for beginner yogis.

Marika Athletic Wear for Yoga, Skydiving, and Rock Climbing

Illustration above via Pinterest. Other photos via Marika.

When it comes to yoga wear, I tend to look for a couple of key things:

• Is it comfortable? (and hopefully flattering)
• Is it functional? (meaning it won’t get in the way or slip down as I stretch)
• Is the style unique? (good colors, fun design)
• Can I wear this outside of yoga class? (bonus!)

 

Marika women’s active and yoga wear fits all of these categories. Their products are the kind of athletic wear that makes you feel like a million bucks, and that gets out of your way so you can focus on your practice.

I am so grateful I connected with their savvy, passionate team. They sent me an awesome new outfit to try:

The Balance line dream sequence seamless tank

 

…and the Balance line divine intervention flat waist capri.

 

Both fit wonderfully—the material is soft, stretchy, and snug without being bunchy. The capris are the perfect length for a hot yoga class, and I love the fun printed waistband. And I love that the print on the shirt looks like a heart, but every time I wear it someone comments that it looks like an owl! :)

And my favorite part about this new outfit?

Not only have the tank and capris been perfect for yoga class, but I’ve worn them skydiving and rock climbing, too! And I’m pretty sure I could pull off wearing the top under a hoodie at work, or out to dinner with friends (which makes for an easy transition if you’re in a hurry to get to the studio for class, by the way!).

If you’re looking to find high-quality yoga wear from a stellar company with great customer service, add Marika to your list. Highly recommended!

PS You can browse their new items here: Marika New Arrivals. And their tie dye tops are fantastic!

Free Shipping at Sweaty Betty

 

Are you shopping for new yoga gear this weekend?

Maybe some winter apparel? I'm looking at you, all you yogis who ski, snowboard and snowshoe! :)

 

I highly recommend checking out Sweaty Betty. They're offering FREE shipping on everything until the 21st, and they've got so many cute options of warm, cozy outerwear that's functional and stylish!

Use this code at checkout: FREESHIP 

Happy shopping, lovelies!

Get Free Delivery with code FREESHIP at SweatyBetty.com

Sweaty Betty Mid-Season Sale

Photos via Sweaty Betty.

Starting tomorrow, Sweaty Betty is launching their mid-season sale. Some of their best sellers will be featured with savings up to 50% off.

 

Check out some of their featured sale products, which include sports bras, yoga tees, outerwear, dresses, yoga pants and more.

 

Their sales will be expiring on 3/25/13, so get shopping, yogis!

 

Wild Yoga Wear

We all get tired of plain, boring black yoga pants. Personally, I'm a fan of bright colors and fun patterns. I couldn't have been more excited to wear my wild print and tye-dye pants and tee from CoutureTeeDotCom to class recently.

I got several compliments on the fun dream catcher and lotus flower designs.

Best of all, these pants are comfortable and provide great coverage around the waist area (the band there is adjustable, so you can fold it down if you like). 

I love that the shirt is stylish enough to wear out for dinner with friends or a date, too!

I highly recommend you guys check out CoutureTeeDotCom for stylish designs and great holiday gift ideas.

Ad Space Available

Photos via Robert Sturman Photography.

Alive in the Fire is an award-winning blog all about yoga, but we also love fashion, green goods, spa and massage, and creative companies with a passionate approach.

Looking for a great deal on ad space for the pre-holiday season? Contact me at aliveinthefire at gmail dot com today! Prices are super affordable and you can get great above-the-fold coverage.

Alive in the Fire's audience is an organic fit for those hoping to reach an active, hip, green, fashionable and largely female audience. The blog is a great fit for companies who sell yoga and fitness gear or apparel, healthy food or drink, and green goods.

By becoming a sponsor with Alive in the Fire, you will reach a lively community of readers who love yoga and who care about taking good care of themselves, each other, and the world.

For more info about the types of companies I've worked with in the past, see the Sponsors and Ad Space page. And for details on ad spots in 2012, email me at aliveinthefire at gmail dot com. Namaste!

Tie Dye Yoga Pants

Photos via Iluka Activewear.

I won't lie: I'm a big sucker for tie dye :)

I'm seeing it more and more this fall. Would you guys wear wild yoga pants like these to class? 

Or do you prefer to dress down in standard black stretchy pants and a big t-shirt?