Posts In: self-care

from our Studio Manager, Missy DiDonato

I feel like I need to say this at the beginning: I don’t do New Year’s resolutions. I don’t think about resolutions for the New Year, and I definitely don’t write them down. With that said, here’s my take on resolutions…

My life does not radically change on January 1st and I’m pretty sure that’s true for most of you. But I like the idea of taking a moment to assess the trajectory of my life and deciding if that direction is compatible with my vision of who I want to become.

So here are some of my on-going resolutions: thought processes I’m working to build, relationships I’m actively deepening, and physical practices that root me in the here and now. Hope these resonate with you!

1. Forgive Myself More. I want to give myself more grace when I make mistakes. I want to be free of my own demanding expectations for my work load and mental bandwidth. I want to let go of that feeling that I need to be everything to everyone.
2. Laugh More. Little moments often mean the most. Sometimes a smile from a friend can lift your whole day. I want to be present for more of those moments of joy and laughter.
3. Walk More. There’s nothing like being outside in nature and feeling the rhythm of walking to bring my mind and body into focus. Like yoga, walking can be its own form of moving meditation. I say yes to more opportunities to walk! Want to walk the neighborhood with me?
4. Keep Learning. I always love taking yoga classes from different teachers. The poses might be the same, but each person has their own unique perspective. I learn something new from every teacher. I want to keep stretching outside my comfort zone.
5. Make More Art. I love to create – drawing, cutting, gluing, anything artsy-craftsy. It’s magic to take ordinary materials and make something beautiful. It fills my soul when something I’ve made brings a smile to the face of someone I love.

So those are my thoughts as we approach 2022. I have faith the new year won’t be as crazy as the past two years, but I’ve been surprised before! Spending time with the people you love is what truly matters. Wishing us all more of those moments. <3

by Laura McCorry

Yoga doesn’t care if you have tattoos… or not.

Yoga doesn’t care if you wear glasses or dye your hair.

Yoga doesn’t require a specific gender or identity or weight or mobility…

Yoga means union.

Yoga means all are welcome, just as you are.

Yoga means following the breath, this moment.

Yoga means small glimpses of the oneness of the universe.

Yoga is for you. And me. And everyone.

Because we are all one.

Yoga One Teacher Training – January 2022
Go deeper – Become ONE

This monthly workshop led by Missy DiDonato fills up fast! While you’re supported in restorative yoga poses, you’ll receive Reiki and a concert of vibrations from crystal bowls, Koshi chimes, rain sticks and more. This meditative experience will leave you feeling centered, balanced and focused.

Join us Monday, November 15th at 7pm

But don’t take our word for it, here’s what past participants have to say –

“The first Reiki & Sound session I went to was amazing. I left feeling rested, peaceful, and full of positive energy.” – Lydia B.

“As a busy mom of two young kids, Reiki & Sound has given me the time and space to truly relax, unwind, and take care of myself. I look forward to having the dedicated time to connect with myself.” – Dain M.

“A few weeks ago at Yoga One, I attended the Reiki & Sound Bath workshop. It was a completely new experience for me and I had no idea what to expect. After settling in and quieting my mind, I was able to completely relax. The sensations I felt during the session were both warm and calming. For me though, it wasn’t until I went to sleep that night and woke up the next morning that complete inner peace ran through me. It was magical.”- Dana H.

 “My Reiki & Sound Bath experience at Yoga One was both relaxing and transforming. My body released all tension as my heart/mind was transported by the cosmic sound vibrations! Awesome!” – Dawn F.

“Basking in the Reiki & Sound Bath is like absorbing the warmth of the sun in winter or the divine cool of the moon in summer. I leave serene, as if I’ve just had a beautiful massage!” – Chris F.

Do you remember your first yoga class ever? We’d love to hear about it!

“My first yoga class was in San Francisco, on the recommendation of an ex-boyfriend. In my mind, “yoga was for hippies” lol, but I went to a local YMCA and enrolled for a month. After my first class, I was in love.

“Before that, I had been working for my state’s Human Rights Commission. I was 21, fresh out of college, and I wasn’t ready to see the reality of my country, Mexico, first hand. I became extremely anxious, depressed and got into toxic behavior with myself. 

“But then a small miracle happened. As part of my job, I went to an orphanage where most of the kids had been taken away from their parents because of addiction or legal custody battles. I thought to myself, I can’t come in here looking like this. The kids need to see healthy people around them.

“I stopped drinking and smoking on the weekdays. It took me two or three months until I decided I needed to quit my job for the sake of my mental health. And I wanted to travel – which brought me to San Francisco. I went back to that YMCA for yoga every day for six months. Then everywhere I went, I enrolled in classes.

“I started to think seriously about taking a yoga teacher training. I realized I wasn’t interested anymore in trying to help the people around me with politics and social work. I wanted them to feel the way I did after every single class. So I looked for a good yoga teacher training in San Diego and the rest is history…

“It’s been almost seven years since I took my teacher training at Yoga One. Every day I go to work with so much happiness and fulfillment that I can’t put it into words. Thanks Yoga One!”

– Yoga One Teacher Training Graduate, Alejandra García Mac Naught

by Laura McCorry

Everyday Mindfulness: 108 Simple Practices to Empower Yourself and Transform Your Life

by Melissa Steginus

Summary: Everyday Mindfulness is designed as an active workbook to help increase self understanding and mindfulness habits. For 108 days (and perhaps beyond), Steginus encourages you to keep the book close at hand. Each day is divided into a brief explanation of the purpose, then the mindfulness practice, followed by space for reflections, comments and notes.

Why I Love It: It’s designed to be read slowly, just one page a day. You don’t slog through paragraphs and long passages to get to its core truths. One of my favorites is Day 31 Engage in Play:

“Make yourself laugh today. Practice ways to express yourself and goof around a little! Schedule at least 10 minutes of play, during which you do something simply for the sake of enjoyment. Even if it feels silly or uncomfortable, do it anyway. Life is too important to live without play!” 

Recommended For: Readers ready to take a journey through the physical, emotional, rational, spiritual, occupation, and network realms of self-study. One of the lessons I’ve gleaned from this past year is that true self-inquiry is always rewarded with greater insightful clarity or with more acceptance for circumstances outside our control. Those seeking a systematic approach to examining mindfulness in all its aspects might find this book to be just the tool they’ve been looking for. 

Everyday Mindfulness is published by TCK Publishing.

Laura McCorry
Contributing Writer

Yoga and Laura had an on-again-off-again relationship from 2004 until 2009 when they decided to move in together and there’s been no looking back since. Passionate about both yoga and writing, Laura loves to introduce others to the joys and benefits of yoga and healthy living.

Contact: laura(AT)yogaonesandiego(DOT)com

by Amy Caldwell

“A piece of old cloth, especially one torn from a larger fabric, used typically for cleaning things.”

Although likening meditation to a rag is not a common metaphor, we are living in uncommon times.

Each one of us is a piece of the whole. And while we aren’t necessarily “old,” we have some amount of human experience under our belts. In our regular daily lives, we can sometimes feel separate or “torn” from the whole.

Right now, we have an opportunity to deeply see and connect to the reality that we are part of a much larger fabric.

Especially under the current circumstances, the importance of cleaning takes on a powerful relevance  – why not use this time to investigate our perceptions, what filters and lenses we employ to see the world? Can we allow ourselves to be more open, curious, and loving?

R.A.G. This simple acronym can serve as a daily meditation in as little as three minutes (one minute each):

R      Relax
A      Awaken
G      Gather

Relax. Enjoy a few deep breaths. Move in any way that helps facilitate relaxation: Exhale with an open mouth, roll the shoulders, tense, and relax the face.

Awaken. Bring awareness to anything in the present moment: sound, smell, thoughts, emotions, body sensations. Meet whatever you find with curiosity and love – as you would a cherished friend.

Gather. Locate an area in your body where you feel the breath: i.e, the torso or nostrils, etc. Choose one location and gather your full attention there. Each time the mind wanders away, return to watching and feeling the breath. Remain here, in the present, and enjoy the experience.

Amy Caldwell
Contributing Writer

Amy (E-RYT 500) has dedicated herself to the practice, study and teaching of yoga since discovering its joys and benefits in 1997 while backpacking throughout Asia, Australia, and parts of Europe. Amy is a Co-Founder of Yoga One and lead teacher for their yoga teacher training program.

guest post by Heather Fenwick

How does your meditation practice look and feel? We’re highlighting stories of meditation in everyday life to help de-mystify this life-changing practice and share simple meditation techniques with those just getting started. Share your experience in the comments or by email, info@yogaonesandiego.com

My meditation practice lately is not as regular as you might think – some days on, some days off. I meditate for up to 20 minutes, or as little as 3 minutes. Even just three minutes, (as Amy Caldwell reminds me, “any amount”) is helpful.

I have a meditation altar, which I love. It’s a place that always invites mindfulness when I see it. Kuan Yin, the goddess of compassion, sits atop the triple India guide book throne. The Dalai Lama, Chinese medicine accoutrements, and Himalayan salt lamps (to neutralize the ions put out by electronics) complete the scene.

Sometimes I just observe the monkey mind in disbelief (when your thoughts are restless and swirling) and I try to cultivate amusement or acceptance, or some combination of both.

Other times, I drop into a breathing practice that I learned from Sarah Clark:

Breathe in and feel the height of the inhale in the upper palate, lifting to the crown.
Exhale, engage a light root lock, feel the seat heavy on the ground.

Breathing is so simple and so profound.
~ Heather

Even just enjoying a conscious  breath can be meditation. Give it a try?

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by Olivia Hughes

I don’t know about you, but 2017 has been an intense year! To bring myself back into balance, I consciously practice gratitude during the holiday season. Gratitude not only for all my blessings, loved ones, health, and happiness, but also for my challenges and opportunities to expand my heart and awareness.

This Yogi Gift Guide shifts the focus from buying material things to practicing self-care and sharing the gift of presence with those you love. Let everything you do this month be sacred.

1. Yoga One Gift Card

Give the gift of yoga!!! This is hands-down the best yoga studio in the heart of downtown San Diego. They offer a range of classes every day of the week, from never-stepped-on-a-yoga-mat beginner level to an intense sweaty and pretzel-y advanced level. They also have a wonderfully relaxing massage room. This could be your one-stop shop for wellness!

2. Meditation Cushion from Sittin’ Pretty Still

Helping people stay calm one cushion at a time. Each one is made with love and intention and they are truly the most gorgeous meditation cushions ever made! They also double as a comfy yoga block or bolster and are 25% off until December 31st. Check out their awesome natural soy candles while you’re at their website, too.

3. Homemade Coupon Book 

Take the holidays back old-school by creating a coupon book redeemable for all your loved one’s favorite things, big and small. You can include anything from a back rub to offering to pump their gas because you know they hate doing it. Coupon books are a great way to show someone you’re paying attention and that you care about them.

4. Crystal Muse by Heather Askinosie and Timmi Jandro

This will be my first Yogi Reads review of 2018! Crystal Muse: Everyday Rituals to Tune in to the Real You includes different rituals and grids you can create to manifest the energy you desire in your life. I loved learning new techniques for staying connected to my crystals, the moon cycles, and their energy all year long.

5. Quinntessentials Yoga & Beauty Products

Organic essential oil products for yoga and life. Owner Julie Quinn crafts each product with intention. My favorite right now is her Palo Santo room spray – it’s perfect for yoga classes and at home. She also makes a rosemary oil for your hair, stash wax for men, and a yogi bones salve that will soothe everyone’s tender spots. Check her out online or in person at different markets around San Diego.

6. Momma Pots

Buying from local, small businesses is one of the best ways to give back to your community. Instead of buying candy or sweets for a stocking stuffer, how about a small potted (low-maintenance) succulent plant? All of Momma Pots products are hand-poured and painted concrete, right here in San Diego. Her pots are truly beautiful, with a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

“Elegant pots, hand crafted by a mom, inspired by all things that grow.” – Blaine Tiongson, owner

7. Passion Planner

Most of us keep our calendar on a mobile device these days, but there’s still value in putting pen to paper. A passion planner goes beyond a list of activities each day by providing prompts for your dreams and goals. It’s the perfect tool to help you think big and stay accountable for creating and living the life YOU want.

“It’s designed to be a safe space for you to dream, reflect, and grow.” – Passion Planner Team

8. Morse Code Malas

Handmade in San Diego these mala beads are intended to evoke a feeling or ignite a purpose when worn. Each one is carefully crafted with you in mind. A one-of-a-kind gift that helps to calm your mind and connect to your spirit. Follow them on Instagram @morsecodemalas

9. Donate Time or Money to the ONE LOVE Movement

The ONE LOVE Movement is a non-profit dedicated to supporting children in impoverished areas. Founder Kim Bauman is a local San Diego yoga teacher whose passion was sparked by a trip to Haiti where she realized how blessed she was, having been an orphan herself who was adopted from South Korea at only 9 months old. She has now dedicated her life to helping other children in need. The ONE LOVE Movement is currently looking for ambassadors in any city, as well as accepting donations of time, resources, or money.

10. Host a Party for Your Loved Ones with Al Fresco Events

For the host or hostess who loves the joy of community and a shared meal, but not all the work of preparation and clean up, Al Fresco Events will pull off an unforgettable holiday (or anytime) party. Your biggest concern will be picking out your outfit, because all you have to do is show up and enjoy! Jennie Niezgoda brings the decor, creates an amazing vibe, and tops it off with her infamous grazing platters, filled with goodies that will leave your guests talking for weeks! Check out her Instagram page to see for yourself @alfresco_events

11. Energy Healing Sessions with Antoinnette Chirinos

A Peruvian modern day Medicine Woman and Angel Tarot Reader, based locally in San Diego. Sessions with Antoinnette will leave you feeling validated within and connected to your spirit. Antoinnette has a deep connection to nature and creates essential oils, herb offerings, and elixirs with intention to support you after her sessions. She also mixes in crystals, and energy clearing kits to help you stay aligned and protected.

12. Yoga Retreat with Olivia and the OM Experience

Give the gift of a retreat! Getting away from it all for a few days in paradise by yourself or with a loved one can be an incredibly healing and restorative experience. Join me for daily yoga, waterfall hikes, snorkeling, relaxing, hydrotherapy, and more! This retreat is one-of-a-kind in its luxury and service, hosted by The Garza Blanca resort in Puerto Vallarta, a five star hotel that offers an all-inclusive experience. Learn more at The OM Experience.

*These recommendations were chosen by the author from her personal life experience and do not reflect any paid advertisements. 

Olivia Hughes
Contributing Writer

Olivia’s yoga journey began in 2003. She is certified in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Aerial Yoga and holds a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. She believes the mind, body, soul connection is sacred and encourages her students explore and expand within their own bodies and consciousnesses.

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guest post by Jennifer Scott

For busy people, stress is a constant force. In its most positive form, stress can motivate us to work harder and achieve great things. But at its worst, too much stress can lead to health problems and bad habits.

After a stressful and tumultuous breakup, I had allowed several bad habits to make their way back into my life. Pair that with a big move across the country, and my stress snowballed out of control. Making the switch to a wellness-focused lifestyle isn’t easy, but I found reducing stress was vital to living a happier and healthier life – even if it’s still busy.

Healthy Habit #1 – Take time to disconnect

One stressor that could be plaguing you is over-connectedness. Sometimes, we all just need to disconnect from technology for a little bit of peace of mind. This is especially true when it comes to work. Healthy habit #1 involves turning off those email notifications after work hours. Like many people, I’m notorious for having my phone glued to my hand, but I made it a goal to turn my phone off by 7:00 p.m. every night. I found that by disconnecting, I was able to relax and wake up rested and ready to tackle the day.

“Researchers .. have found that although we may resist it, we really do need down time after work to mentally recharge for the next day … continuing to communicate with colleagues after hours not only creates stress, but it prevents your brain from relaxing and recouping from a long work day in preparation for the next,” notes Forbes.

This can also be applied to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media. If you have a habit of browsing your feed in bed – stop! Disallowing electronics in your bedroom will teach your brain that the bedroom is a place for sleep and sleep only, and it will lead to more restful, higher-quality sleep.

Healthy Habit #2 – Don’t make all your free time family time

You love your family. We all love our families. But every single second of your free time doesn’t have to be family time. In fact, the stress from kids and relationship issues can cause great mental fatigue. Alone time is good time, and you should make time every day to do something with the person you know best – yourself. Even if you can’t necessarily escape, you can create a solitude space in your home using relaxing decor and a comfy chair. Let family members and partners know that this space is for uninterrupted alone time.

In the end, your alone time will likely strengthen your familial relationships too. “By spending time with yourself and gaining a better understanding of who you are and what you desire in life, you’re more likely to make better choices about who you want to be around. You also may come to appreciate your relationships more after you’ve spent some time alone,” says Psychology Today.

Healthy Habit #3 – Choosing healthy coping mechanisms

People under a lot of stress have a tendency to look for whatever they can to help them deal with it. Oftentimes, the first solution we try is to escape and dull our senses. While having a drink now and then to unwind isn’t usually a problem, using drugs or alcohol as a crutch to deal with stress can become a dangerous habit.

There are many healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress. You can practice yoga, meditation, and/or focused breathing. Put your energy into a hobby or project. Spend your free time in nature. You might be surprised to learn that the method you choose has benefits beyond stress relief. For example, yoga provides immediate benefits such as improved brain function and flexibility. After a few months, you may notice lower blood pressure, improved sense of balance, relief from chronic pain, and anxiety relief. Years of yoga practice can also lower your risk of heart disease and build stronger bones. When you switch from trying to escape stress to actively reducing it, you reap the benefits in your overall health.

Healthy Habit #4 – Focus on eating right

Stress makes you want to eat unhealthy foods. It’s science. “Stressful events – and they don’t even have to be big, just the daily hassles of life – cause our cortisol levels to rise. Cortisol causes food cravings, and … those cravings tend to be strongest for carbs, especially sweet foods,” says Prevention.com.

You have to be aware of this, and do what you can to fight it. Be prepared. Always have healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, and yogurt handy. Plan your meals and get ahead with your prep and cooking. Always take your lunch to work. Don’t skip breakfast. Eat foods rich in omega 3s like fatty fish, which can help give your brain a boost to help you fight high levels of stress.

Stress isn’t always a bad thing, but too much of it can lead you down a dark path of unhealthy habits. Instead, focus on adopting healthy habits which will help you manage your stress levels on a daily basis.

 

Jennifer Scott

With SpiritFinder, Ms. Scott offers a forum where those living with anxiety and depression can discuss their experiences. 

An interview by Yoga One student Stacey Ebert with Yoga One owner and co-founder, Amy Caldwell. 

As a practicing yogi, I’ve seen and felt the benefits of sharper awareness, greater strength and flexibility, better posture, and overall improved health firsthand. The more than 5,000-year old philosophy encourages a practice of health, wellbeing, and attention. No, you don’t have to flexible. No, it’s not super expensive. Yes, you can practice anywhere. Yes, it offers something for everyone. Never once have I regretted a moment spent on my mat.

To see what someone with more detailed knowledge had to say, I chatted with Amy Caldwell, who along with her husband, Michael, owns Yoga One in San Diego, California. In addition to practicing, studying, and teaching yoga for two decades, Amy has collaborated on the best-selling iYoga Premium for iPad and iPhone. She also leads the annual yoga class aboard the historic USS Midway, is the head teacher for the acclaimed Yoga One Teacher Training, and has twice been featured on the cover of Yoga Journal. Here’s what she has to say about yoga and its benefits.

SE: How does the idea of ‘getting out of your own way’ merge with the practice of yoga?

AC: Yoga, an ongoing practice of inner listening, works to find a balance between being grounded and remaining open. These tools help us “get out of our own way” by deeply connecting to our Self (“Self” with a capital S indicates big energy and spirit, a higher self). By the time the student makes it to a yoga class, she has already taken the first pro-active step towards self-care.

SE: How do you encourage students to “take their first steps and then leap?” 

AC: Life happens during our present moments, and the practice of yoga teaches people to consciously participate in those present moments. Students are invited to notice with increasing attention what is happening here and now. The next step is to balance that awareness with relaxing into what is: meeting yourself where you are each and every day, and moving forward from there.

The intentions and tools experienced and developed in a yoga practice carry off the mat into daily life.

SE: What are some beginning, advanced, and intermediate actionable steps women can take to lessen fear and add more joy to their life?

AC: Practice self-care. Take a few minutes every day to simply “be” rather than to “do.” This can be going for a walk, a few yoga poses, five minutes of meditation, or really, doing anything at all with the intention of being fully present.

Schedule something weekly that strengthens the muscles of careful listening and being present. This can be as simple as listening to whomever is speaking to you without interruption and with full attention, a yoga or meditation class, or any art form that encourages mindfulness.

Make time for things that bring you joy (for me it can be spending quality time with my family, being in nature or taking a fun dance class). Pay attention to whatever it is that helps you connect to a deep sense of vibrant aliveness and make time to do it! We can all carve out an hour or two a week for our well-being and healthy enjoyment.

by Olivia Cecchettini

Healing 

by David Elliott

“My primary work as a healer is to remind and reconnect people to the power of love.  Self-love is the starting point for anyone seeking healing in their life.” – David Elliott

Summary: Healing provides wonderful inspiration for empathic individuals to embrace and pursue whatever form of healing speaks to them. David Elliott’s matter-of-fact writing makes this book an easy read. Though the work he prescribes – through meditations, worksheets, and journaling – might not be as simple to master. The information Elliott provides about the healing process can help you dive deeper into yourself and better see your patterns and blocks.

This book spoke truth to my soul. When we seek out healing, we must first recognize the pain, addictions, and trauma that require healing. This process might not be for the faint of heart. I believe everything we experience in life can be turned into a tool for growth – but it is hard work to release pain and look for meaning. Elliott’s words felt familiar and safe while I worked my way through his book.

We need healers like Elliott who are ready and willing to ignite the path for others and that’s why I feel his book is so important to share. Healing gives you tools and exercises to dive deep within, to identify old wounds and to care for yourself.

Why I Love It: I believe healing comes in many forms and I’ve witnessed the power of David Elliott’s approach while reading Healing and through the personal testimony of my longtime friend Melodee Solomon. I have always known her as someone with a lot of passion and drive, but I knew there were fears and doubts holding her back from sharing her gifts with the world. As her friend, I knew she was a powerful healer, but she wasn’t yet in touch with this part of herself.

About three years ago, Melodee began taking breath work trainings with David Elliott to expand upon her yoga training. As she went deeper into her studies, I saw a shift occur. She was able to release doubt and see her worth in a way she hadn’t before. Today she offers weekly breath work classes along with monthly workshops all over the United States. I’m not saying one book, one workshop, or even one breath work training will heal you and change your life, but it may start you on the path.

Recommended For: People who wants to experience healing in their life starting right away. We are all born to be healers. Most people barely scratch the surface of their lives, but if you start digging you will uncover so many layers.

As a yoga teacher, one of the most important things I do is hold space for others to awaken in their bodies but also in their minds and spirits. The space where healing occurs can be a supportive group or it can be a book in your hand.

Every teacher needs a teacher; and as I’ve seen in my friend Melodee, David Elliott’s approach creates more leaders and more healers. This is what the world so desperately needs, more people tapping into their purpose and making the entire planet come alive. I invite you to begin today, with love and compassion. Namaste.

Olivia Cecchettini
Contributing Writer

Olivia’s yoga journey began in 2003. She is certified in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Aerial Yoga and holds a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. She believes the mind, body, soul connection is sacred and encourages her students explore and expand within their own bodies and consciousnesses.

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by Laura McCorry

When my military husband was deployed, I kept a list on a whiteboard of things I could do to boost my spirits when I was feeling down and lonely. Some were aimed at fostering good mental health, like connecting with other people, while some were simply indulgent treats I was giving myself pre-permission to have and enjoy.

I highly encourage everyone to make your own list and keep it handy! It doesn’t matter if you’re going through the toughest season of your life or if you feel on top of the world –

No matter who you are, no matter what’s going on, you are here and you are deserving of love, especially from yourself!

Here are some suggestions if I had to re-write the list today:

1. Call a friend
2. Buy a treat at a bakery
3. Go for a walk
4. Get a massage
5. Take a yoga class
6. Make a coffee date
7. Make a wine date
8. Write a letter
9. Make a pot of tea
10. Be a tourist in your own town
11. Go outside
12. Visit a state park
13. Video chat with family
14. Make art
15. Read a book
16. Go to a museum
17. Listen to music
18. Meditate
19. Start a gratitude journal

Laura McCorry
Contributing Writer

Yoga and Laura had an on-again-off-again relationship from 2004 until 2009 when they decided to move in together and there’s been no looking back since. Passionate about both yoga and writing, Laura loves to introduce others to the joys and benefits of yoga and healthy living.

Contact: laura(AT)yogaonesandiego(DOT)com

 

Laura McCorry
Contributing Writer

Yoga and Laura had an on-again-off-again relationship from 2004 until 2009 when they decided to move in together and there’s been no looking back since. Passionate about both yoga and writing, Laura loves to introduce others to the joys and benefits of yoga and healthy living.

Contact: laura@yogaonesandiego.com

by Laura McCorry

Anti-resolutions for the modern yogi

It’s good to reflect on where you’ve been and where you’d like to go – to identify the areas of your life where you’d like to see change. But too strong a focus on these things draws us into regret/shame about the past or anxiety/pressure about the future. 

Here are five things I don’t want to do in the coming year. The only way I can avoid them is by not doing them this very moment. There is only here. There is only now. The stroke of midnight will come and go, but the present moment is always with us and always extends the promise of change and of living life more abundantly. 

May you find balance and harmony, right where you are, right now.

1. Dream about things I want instead of doing them.

If you never take the risk, you can never be disappointed. It’s easy to talk or think about the big, incredible things you want to do or experience in life but not take steps towards accomplishing them. Almost any goal can be broken down into concrete small steps that will set you on the course to accomplishing it. Even if your goal is an experience like traveling, you can consciously save a little bit of money each week to work towards this goal.

2. Put off until tomorrow something that can be accomplished today.

On a related note – there’s almost no task more onerous than the repeated experience of thinking about and dreading it. The more you practice embracing the present moment for action, you practice cutting off anxiety at its source. Do your chores. Have the hard conversation. Make an appointment with the dentist. There’s no time like the present moment – in fact, yogis know that’s all there is.

3. Blame someone else for not doing the thing I expect or would like them to do. 

This one sounds ridiculous when you put it in words but it’s very common. Your partner didn’t do something the way you would have done it. Your friend hasn’t called to check on you and you’re feeling lonely. The weight of all these hidden disappointments is too much to carry around embittering your own heart. In the now-immortal words of Elsa, Let it go, let it goooo…

4. Try to adhere to a strict new schedule of eating/exercising/meditation/reading/etc. 

There’s a reason most people fail to keep up with their New Years resolutions by February – it’s because habits are so very strong. Do I want to eat healthy, delicious food, do more yoga and make a bigger dent in my reading list? Hell yeah! But trying to use January to force myself into compliance just isn’t going to work. There are other ways to bring about positive change in your life and all of them require attention throughout the year and not just on January 1st. Marianne Williamson captured the yogic philosophy by stating, “You must learn a new way to think before you can master a new way to be.”

5. Continue to think and operate on the scarcity mindset. 

All too often, we confuse abundance with scarcity. For example, scarcity thinks: I won’t invite my friend over because my house is messy. But focusing on abundance thinks: I have friends, a house, and everything I need and want for daily living. Each day you’re presented with the opportunity to view your life as a scarce commodity or an abundant one. You can guard, protect, and parcel out the best moments or you can celebrate, share, and be fully present for them. I know which one I need more of in this new year.

Laura McCorry
Contributing Writer

Yoga and Laura had an on-again-off-again relationship from 2004 until 2009 when they decided to move in together and there’s been no looking back since. Passionate about both yoga and writing, Laura loves to introduce others to the joys and benefits of yoga and healthy living.

Contact: laura@yogaonesandiego.com

by Olivia Cecchettini

“The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga”

by Bernie Clark

Summary: The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga provides a great in-depth look at the practice and benefits of Yin Yoga. All forms of yoga provide benefits on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual levels but Yin Yoga is practiced at a reduced pace. Poses are held for up to five minutes at a time, which allows deep access to the body’s connective tissues, ligaments, fascia, joints, bones, energetic channels, meridians, nerves and even the blood system. Now that’s some serious body work!

The Complete Guide to Yin Yoga includes break downs of over 30 yin poses, making this book the perfect tool to help you slow down and bring your home practice to life.

Why I Love It: This book helps me slow down, a lesson that has never been easy. Over the past year and especially in the past six months, my life has become very full as I take on more classes and responsibilities. I couldn’t be more excited about all of this growth, but it can feel overwhelming at times. A Yin Yoga practice helps me stay grounded, balanced and clear. 

Recommended For: Anyone who needs some time for themselves (and isn’t that everyone during the holiday season?)

I remember taking a Yin Yoga class with a friend a few years ago. I thought it was so wonderful to finally slow down and be in my own energy. She, on the other hand, said the hour long class had felt like five hours! She found it so challenging to stay still and focus on her breath.

Whether you can relate to me or my friend, the benefits of Yin Yoga are still the same: improved range of motion, ease from chronic pain and an excellent opening guide to seated meditation. My suggestion is to try different styles of yoga and be open to new experiences. Welcome the ebbs and flows in everything you practice and remember, “life is a journey, not a destination.” Hope you enjoy taking some time to connect with yourself this month!

Olivia Cecchettini
Contributing Writer

Olivia’s yoga journey began in 2003. She is certified in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Aerial Yoga and holds a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. She believes the mind, body, soul connection is sacred and encourages her students explore and expand within their own bodies and consciousnesses.

by Olivia Cecchettini

“Yoga & Ayurveda: Self-Healing and Self-Realization” 

by David Frawley

Summary: Yoga & Ayurveda is an excellent primer for those new to either topic. Known as the “sister sciences,” Yoga and Ayurveda have been practiced together for centuries to bring the whole person into a state of health and wellbeing. This book summarizes the most important tenets of each practice and gives intelligent ways to implement its teachings into your everyday life. It also contains enough pictures of yoga poses to support a beginning home practice.

Why I Love It: With the rising popularity of Yoga in the western world, I believe it’s important to show how Ayurveda is a necessary and hugely beneficial complementary practice. From the seasoned practitioner to the brand new beginner, both disciplines are relevant to contemporary spiritual practice and healthy living.

I especially enjoyed the chapter on chanting – finding my voice as a teacher has been a journey of constantly going deeper and accessing that true connection within. Using the techniques from Yoga & Ayurveda, I’ve learned so much more about my unique constitution and how I can best support this body from my diet to my skin care routine.

As they say, knowledge is power. Empower yourself to heal yourself.

Recommended For: Anyone wanting to know more about the harmonious interplay between Yoga and Ayurveda and their healing magic for the human body and experience. Even though the two practices are different and unique, it is their combination that will catapult growth and change into your life.

These practices may come and go or may become part of your routine – either way, this book is a good reminder to keep coming back to self-love and self-care. This “coming home” into our own hearts ripples out through our environment and the practice of healing oneself becomes the practice of healing the world. 

 

Olivia Cecchettini
Contributing Writer

Olivia’s yoga journey began in 2003. She is certified in Vinyasa, Hatha, and Aerial Yoga and holds a Masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. She believes the mind, body, soul connection is sacred and encourages her students explore and expand within their own bodies and consciousnesses.

by Laura McCorry

It’s easy to get caught up in living a moment to moment existence (which is not the same as existence in the present moment). You do the things that must be done to move from one day into the next – putting off until tomorrow everything but the essential. Until there is only enough space in the crowded shuffle of your brain to process the next step.

This is when life is hard. When a deep feeling of unease settles around your heart. If you could step back, you might see the problem, but you feel stuck. The body will tell you something is wrong and its strongest language is pain. 

Yoga helps. Get on your mat and start to move with your body. Listen. Find your alignment by what feels good and not how it looks. A hot cup of tea can do wonders. So can a phone call to a friend. Breathe in. Breathe out.

Do whatever it is you need to do to let the light back in. 

Open your hands and release everything you’ve been grasping and clenching tight. Turn your face to the sun, which can be the actual sun or your closed eyes summoning up all the loves in your life –

Your romantic partner. Your mother. Your dog. Anyone who has ever shown you kindness.

Think of them and feel the corners of your eyes crinkle. Let the light shine deep and illuminate the furthest reaches of your heart.

Laura McCorry
Contributing Writer

Yoga and Laura had an on-again-off-again relationship from 2004 until 2009 when they decided to move in together and there’s been no looking back since. Passionate about both yoga and writing, Laura loves to introduce others to the joys and benefits of yoga and healthy living.

Contact: laura@yogaonesandiego.com

guest post by Missy DiDonato

Remember this beautiful prenatal yoga reflection written by Missy back in June? Well her baby, Olive, is now five months old. Missy shares how her practice has evolved yet again after the birth of her daughter!

by Olivia Cecchittini

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

by Don Miguel Ruiz

Summary: Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, “The Four Agreements” is a book that connects the reader to simple yet powerful tools that can transform their consciousness. Using everyday life concepts combined with a compassionate heart, Ruiz connects the reader to their own inner light. Each agreement moves out of the mind and into the heart space, taking readers from needless suffering to creating more joy, inner peace and freedom within their own lives. Here are the Four Agreements: 1. Be impeccable with your word 2. Don’t take anything personally. 3. Don’t make assumptions. 4. Always do your best. They are simple but if practiced with intention they can truly transform your life.

Why I love it:  I love this book because it is easy to read and simple to process but the affects of Don Miguel Ruiz’s words run deep. They continuously stay with me and bring me back into alignment time and time again even years later.

Recommended For: Anyone and everyone! We are all connected – as we deepen our understanding of ourselves, we create space for others to do the same. Our relationship with others is an outer reflection of our relationship with ourselves. As we surrender to the lifelong lesson of  healing, learning, and growing these simple agreements create mindfulness to live with integrity and joy.

Don Miguel Ruiz’s book is a roadmap to enlightenment and freedom.” — Deepak Chopra, Author, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success

Olivia Cecchettini
Contributing Writer

Olivia is a yoga teacher based out of San Diego. With a love for people, life, spirituality, reading, and, of course, yoga she spends her days connecting with students and nature. Getting outside whenever she can to enjoy all the beauty this life has to offer.

With social events and family gatherings right around the corner, it’s easy to stop doing some of the things you usually do, including established habits. It’s even easier to stop doing the new activities you’d like to transform into habits. Your yoga practice, whether fully integrated into daily life or a new-found activity you’d like to continue, is in danger of suffering this December. For some, the knowledge of having been dedicated to their practice for a long time can feel like permission to do less and focus on other matters. For others, yoga can feel like a personal luxury, one that can easily be picked up after everyone else’s problems and needs have been resolved.

We all struggle with the decision of what to do with the present moment. Most of us can only do one thing at a time; therefore a choice must be made between many tasks or activities of differing priority levels. Normally, there exists a careful balance between the things that need to be done and the things we would like to do. But during times of stress, we’re all guilty of compromising on the things we would like to do, the self-care activities that keep us happy and balanced, that we mortgage our own well-being. The parent who puts off treating themselves for some magical day in the future when they won’t have to drive half the soccer league to practice. The student who sacrifices good nutrition for convenience during finals week. The working professional who hasn’t taken a day off in years. We’ve all seen these people and we’ve all been these people.

I would like to put forth the outlandish proposal that healthy, well-cared-for people are happier people. More productive people. Even sexier people. In the midst of all the swirling activities and demands that December brings, make two lists for yourself. One you already have, whether it’s in your mind or written down on a scrap of paper. The other is a list of all the things you usually do for yourself or all the things you’d like to do for yourself. Add yoga to the top of both lists.

Beyond the realm of exercise, yoga calms the nerves, deepens the breath and establishes a mind-body connection to counteract all the spinning the mind does on its own. We all know that yoga makes us feel good, but yoga is also something we need, especially when life gets chaotic. When you carve out time to care for your own well-being, both physical and mental, then you’ll find that you command such superpowers as increased energy, more focused attention, emotional empathy to spare, and that rarest of all gems, peace of mind.

Go forth. Do yoga. Spread Joy.