Moving Slowly

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Sometimes the practice is about savoring the journey.

The point is not to strike a perfect pose or to cure your mind of wandering.

The process itself is the true experience.


What does my breath sound like?

How does it feel to raise my arms gracefully above my head? To stretch my fingertips wider on the mat?

What can I let go of in this moment?


In class today, try moving slowly, more slowly than you normally do. Savor the way your body feels as it moves toward a pose, or as you transition out of it. 

Is there anything you are avoiding by rushing?

Experience the yoga in a new way, one where you are at peace with the process.

Yoga at Lake Tahoe (And Falling More in Love with My Life)

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I am a big fan of taking my practice out of the studio. Often being in a new location can bring new perspective. When I am

in nature

, I feel more grounded, more connected to the heart of my practice.

I see my yoga with clear vision.

I am not caught up in the little habits that come with a familiar class.

I allow myself to move freely through the postures, listening for what my body needs.

Yesterday I hiked down a little path not far from Hidden Beach at Lake Tahoe and rolled out my mat on the pine needles. I had an amazing view of the water.

I sat on a flat rock, breathing, letting my mind settle.

I meditated on the power and beauty of the physical world. I let my heart fill with gratitude for the chance to be present in such a gorgeous place. I did not hurry to move from stillness into the postures.

I slowed down my flow between postures, pausing to notice alignment. I let each breath be full and deep, feeling the difference from the elevation and the subtle smell of pine and water.

The sound of the lake lapping at the shoreline.

The sunlight falling through the trees.

I am grateful for days like these, when the yoga feels natural, grounded, true. 

I am grateful to wake up sore the next day, my muscles reminding me of the efforts I made, reminding me that I am strong.

Over and over, I am falling in love with this experience we call

yoga

. Yoga simply teaches me to hold a perspective that is peaceful, loving, aware, grateful.

At the end of a practice like yesterday's, my heart full and my head clear, I realize: the asana is simply a way for me to fall even deeper in love with my life.

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Reflections on dipping in 30-something-degree water.

Alive in the Fire
Alive in the Fire

On why I was inspired to name this blog Alive in the Fire.

Holding Space for Gratitude

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What are you seeking today? Shape your experience by setting an intention.

Today my intention is to let go of negativity that does not serve me.

Today my intention is to resonate peace to those around me.

Today my intention is to let go of fear.


This practice can also allow you to open up new space for gratitude.

I am grateful for time on the mat.

I am grateful to carry my practice into my day to day life.

I am grateful for the journey in yoga-- that it is an ongoing learning process instead of a one-time occurrence. I am grateful that yoga is more than performing a posture.

Celebrating 1,000 Posts at Alive in the Fire

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Photos via Pinterest.

Wanna know something crazy?

I've posted over 1,000 times on Alive in the Fire.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pretty exciting, right?!

I think we should all celebrate. :)


Hopefully I'll have my act together and be back to regular posting again soon, lovelies! It's just been a whirlwind of enjoying life to the fullest lately... which often means less time camped in front of the computer screen.

Thanks for your patience and namaste!


Why Do You Love Yoga?

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Video via Lululemon on YouTube.

I love this video from Lululemon featuring Wanderlust yogis speaking about their love of yoga.

How has the practice changed you?

How does yoga wake you up? Help you fight through challenges? Bring you home? 

It is through the challenge that we discover a new space or a new pathway to change. I come right back to myself.

PS Read this for more inspiration on how yoga is a true love story, one that sometimes requires walking through darkness before you can find new consciousness.

The Good Life (Hello from Tahoe)

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Happy Labor Day weekend, yogis!

I am enjoying great vibes in Tahoe...having an amazing time listening to live music on the beach, hanging out with friends, going for walks at King's Beach, playing a little guitar, and definitely checking out a new studio tomorrow.


Thankfully the air has cleared a little today. A couple days ago it was pretty smoky around here!


I hope you're having a peaceful, energizing time wherever you are. Wishing you much love and happiness!

Yogi on the Move

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Hey lovelies! Hope you've been having a beautiful weekend. 

I just returned to California after an amazing road trip to Chicago. It was quite an adventure driving all the way across the country (solo on the way out, and with my sister on the way back)! I woke up this morning feeling so grateful to be back and to have had the chance to do some summer traveling.


4,000 miles of driving definitely did a number on my body though...let's just say my sad, sore upper back and shoulders and my tight hips were very excited for a hot vinyasa class today!

Stay tuned for a post on yoga for long road trips. I'll give you some advice for postures that will help keep you limber and give you great energy for those long days of sitting.


This week I plan to share a mix of exciting posts... highlights from the road trip, updates on my new job and upcoming yoga teacher training (!!!), and some reflections on recent insights from teachers during class.

Thanks for your patience and see you around the blog again soon!


Namaste.

Tasty Bite: Healthy Indian and Pan-Asian Meals on the Go

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 Above photo by me; below photos via Tasty Bite.

Are you a healthy eater?

 I've recently been opting for pescatarian choices and trying to avoid heavy meals. I was excited when the team over at Tasty Bite reached out to me about trying some of their all-natural Indian and Pan-Asian heat-and-eat meals.

 Their entrees are perfect for days when you don't have time to pack a lunch for work, or you're too tired to fix an elaborate meal for dinner.

 

  

Tasty Bite sent me a sampling of their 1-step 1-minute entrees, including the Lemongrass Ginger noodles, the Pad Thai noodles, the Kashmir spinach and the Ginger Lentil rice. All were delicious! 

I was a little surprised at how the noodle dishes were spicy, but I enjoyed the fact that they had a little kick :)

I would highly recommend this brand to anyone interested in a quick option for a tasty, healthy meal without preservatives. Their packages don't have to be refrigerated, either, which is convenient. 

Thanks, Tasty Bite, for sharing the love! 

A Guest Post on Aloe Vera

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Photos via Pinterest.

Oh, summer sunburns. I recently suffered a bad one, and was reminded of the healing properties of the aloe vera plant.

Today I bring you a guest post from Louise Ross on the many wonderful benefits of aloe vera, which go beyond just treating sunburns. Happy reading, and be sure you wear sunscreen while it's still hot out, yogis!


Aloe Vera: It's More Than Just a Plant

I often blog about natural remedies for many medical conditions because they're easier to apply, are highly effective, and have less side effects on our health. Today, I bring you the 'plant of immortality', as the Egyptians referred to it thousands of years ago, aloe vera plant.

Used as a beauty regimen, a cure for insomnia, and a solution for baldness, it is even considered as a potential AIDS and cancer fighter. Scientists and researchers are still studying its antiseptic properties but aloes definitely sound promising. 


To give you an idea, here are the highlights:

1. It has soothing effects on skin.
If Cleopatra is known to be the most vain woman that ever lived (she regularly bathed in fresh milk, mind you), then her use of aloe vera is a certain sign that it's a good routine. She used the succulent juices on her skin as a daily beauty regimen to, you know, keep away wrinkles and keep herself looking radiant.

Plus, aloes have a cooling effect that's great during summer. I once applied this on my son's sunburns and the results were instant. It's the perfect first aid for rashes and sunburns.

2. It has healing properties for scars and tattoos.
Ever been victimised on a drunken night at 17 and ended up with an Elmo tattoo on your tummy when you woke up? Well, you don't have to suffer endless ridicule and horrible memories of that night because aloe vera is your go-to. Although it can't fully erase inked skin, it can assist tattoo removal cream in getting rid of your tattoo. You don't have to go through painful laser treatments just to erase your barbwire arm ink.

I haven't tried this routine myself because thankfully I don't have embarrassing tattoos, but it's certainly a must try.


3. It moisturizes and exfoliates skin.
When I was 5 months pregnant with my 1st, I was desperate for an anti-stretch marks lotion. All I found in cosmetics stores were creams promising smooth skin but without any assurances of 'no side effects'. Fearing risk for my baby, I looked for an alternative. It was a relief I discovered aloe vera. Sure, I knew about aloes good for the hair and all that, but I wasn't aware that it was good for baby bumps as well.

Now, I have no stretch marks and my tummy is even smoother and wrinkle free. Try applying raw aloe vera juice gently on your belly after you bathe and before you sleep. Notice the difference in just two days.

4. It helps with digestion problems and boosts immune system.
Anybody who's had digestive problems should keep a pot of aloe vera plant close to their kitchen windows. It's a natural remedy that can sooth your tummy and, well, help with any digestion issues you have.

Plus, it's the perfect boost for your immune system, it has high levels of anti oxidants, and it stimulates white blood cells, essentially the ninjas of your body.

It really doesn't get any better than this. 

Photo by me.

Aloe Vera can also help with:
  • Skin troubles
  • Burns and irritations to the skin
  • Removal of scars and blemishes
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Digestive problems
  • Detoxification
  • Cardiovascular health
You'll find a lot of cosmetics products like lotions, creams, deodorants, and even makeup feature aloe vera in the ingredients list. It's a world renowned plant with terrific medicinal and healing properties.

Conclusion 

Aloe vera has been here for thousands of years, and yet we're only scraping the surface of its potential for medicine. Given studies and researches about this plant for many years now, who knows what it can do in the next few months, years?

About the Author: This article is written by Louise Ross for Lazer Cream - a leading provider of a quality tattoo removal cream in the UK. You can find success stories and photos from customers found on their site.

Night Yoga

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Sometimes I practice yoga late at night. There is something very calming about being in the backyard, stars overhead, light breeze, hardly any sounds.


There is nothing but my mat and the breath, the flow of prana within.

I reach fully, stretch passionately, move only with intention.


I play, trying new postures, testing the waters to see what's possible. I laugh when I fall out.
  

I connect in fully to the heart center. Where is my true self?

Savasana is a release. Full rest. I have reconnected. Namaste.

Listening

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Yoga does not see you as broken, ugly, imperfect, weak, or insecure. You see you as those things.

Learn to let go. Learn to listen to the yoga instead.


Come to your mat and let your heart be softened. Let your breath be heard. See the ways in which you are beautiful, strong, worthy.


Walk away changed.

Sat Nam: truth is my name.

PS Special thanks to Tess at East Wind Yoga for teaching the class that inspired this post.

Why Do We Practice?

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We practice yoga because it works.

No matter who you are, what kind of shape you're in -- physically, spiritually-- if you come to yoga on a consistent basis, it will change you.

You will learn to follow the breath. To stretch. To deepen your understanding of your own body. To grow your compassion for others. To learn patience.

Come when you are tired.

Come when you don't want to.

We practice because yoga works. Simple as that.

Summer at the Lake (Happy 4th of July!)

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Did you have a happy 4th of July?

Mine was beautiful! I spent the day at Folsom Lake with my sister, brother-in-law, and my nephew. Then we joined my mom for dinner and watched some neighbors set off fireworks.


My favorite part of the day was just being in nature, swimming and playing in the water, and laying in the sun.

The California landscape and the heat of the day made me think of a NeedtoBreathe song I've been listening to lately:

Come down to the river
Come and let yourself in
Make good on a promise
To never hurt again
If you're lost and lonely
You're broken down
Bring all of your troubles
Come lay 'em down


Granted, we were at the lake, not a river... but anyway :)


What did you guys do for the holiday? Are you celebrating all weekend? Traveling somewhere fun? 

 Whatever you're up to, I'm hoping you find happiness and the relaxation you so deserve. Namaste, beautiful ones!

Yoga For Busy Moms

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Photos via Pinterest.

Yogini goddesses, I couldn't be more excited to share this beautiful guest post from health writer Virginia Cunningham with you today. Virginia shares her thoughts on why yoga is great for busy moms, the benefits of practicing, and advice on how to get started.

Being a mom is one of the most stressful jobs in the universe. It’s not just one full-time position, but at least five. Moms find it difficult to manage without acting on the urge to pull out all of her hair. It’s important for even the busiest mom to find some time for herself to relax.

Yoga is the perfect activity to manage your stress.

Why Should I Spend My Precious Time on Yoga?

-Quick Workout

Most workouts take at least 30 minutes, 3 times a week to see and feel any results. For somebody who works and deals with the needs of their kids, 90 minutes a week is a luxury she might now have. Some yoga workouts only require 15 minutes and you’ll feel results sooner.

-Stress Relief

Stress is a major cause of many health ailments, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. You owe it to yourself and your family to stay healthy. Yoga can lower your blood pressure by relieving you of the stress that weighs heavy on your shoulders.

Give Yourself Alone Time

As a mom, there’s always someone who claims to need your undivided attention. Being around people all day, every day, can eventually feel like a burden. If you don’t give yourself time to be alone, you could end up resenting the people you love most. Yoga can be the solitary experience you sorely need.
Teaches You to Relax

Relaxation is one of those essential subjects we never learned in school. The more work you have to do in a single day, the more tension builds up. Without learning to relax, you could find yourself with chronic aches and pains. Part of yoga is learning how to breathe and take time to relax. These are tools you can use in any situation when needed.

Energizes You

One long day of hard work can zap the energy from you for the whole week. Fifteen minutes of yoga in the morning just might be enough to kickstart your day in the right direction. You’ll have more energy during the day, which will make it easier for you to deal with whatever challenges life throws at you.

Yoga Tips For Beginning Moms

Plan Your Weekly Routine

Even if you decide on making yoga your new regular activity, it’s too easy to let time slip by you, therefore, you should plan for when you’re able to fit yoga in. Start by thinking about what time of day you’ll have the energy and time to devote to at least 15 minutes of yoga. If you choose the wrong time, you could end up too exhausted to participate.

Learn from an Instructor

Some yoga poses can be dangerous if you attempt them for the first time on your own. Learning yoga from a book might seem like a time and money saver; however, it will be more effective to learn from a trained professional.

Whether you go to a yoga class or buy an instructional DVD, it’s important to learn the basics from somebody trustworthy so you know that you’ll gain all the benefits from your yoga workout.

Listen to Your Body

Not every yoga pose is made for every person. People come in all different shapes, sizes and levels of flexibility. Anyone can participate in yoga, but some poses can be dangerous or uncomfortable. Let your body tell you what is comfortable and don’t try to force yourself.

Yoga is a very relaxing exercise that anyone, especially busy moms, should incorporate into their daily routine.

Virginia Cunningham is a freelance writer from Southern California whose writing specializes in a range of health topics, including personal fitness, family health and vitamins and supplements. She practices yoga each morning to get a kickstart for the rest of her day.

Thanks, Virginia, for such a great post! Namaste.