tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15208272458461818652024-03-12T19:40:24.499-04:00Yoga Girl goes VeganA new yogi documents the ups and downs of lifestyle transformation from omnivore to Raw Vegan.Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-54846482481794393182019-04-11T09:27:00.000-04:002019-04-11T09:28:51.684-04:00Toes in the Grass<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been attending a free online engagement, the <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2019/04/embodied-shakti-summit-april-5th-19th.html" target="_blank">Embodied Shakti Summit</a> as both a presenter and a participant. How alive I feel! I had forgotten how enriching it can be to interact and share with a group of positive-energy based souls. It has provided the motivation to revive Yoga Girl goes Vegan writings. One of the most recent activities was a live on-line poetry reading session. Many of you are familiar with this blog and the Yoga Girl goes Vegan posts presented on social media platforms, what was unknown until now, is the poetry written.<br />
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Some of it is personal, some of it is expression of emotion, some of it needs to just "come out" as the words build and build wanting release into the atmosphere. Writing poetry is something we all can do. It doesn't have to rhyme, it doesnt' have to follow a pattern, it doesn't have to be structured, it just has to "be". Let your inner thoughts flow out into the universe. Share or not sharing is your choice - the activity is what is key.<br />
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Didn't think you have a voice? You do. We all do. We just don't always recognize nor realize it. I've several sources of poetic inspiration. One such soul is my aunt, author Mamie Harvin Black. She wrote a series of poems each at different stages of her life spanning from a very young girl to her current wisdom filled maturity. She published her experiences in her first book "Living Poetry, Poetry in Living" several years after realizing its never too late to release into the universe.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Living-Poetry-Poetry-Expressions-Everyday-Experiences/dp/1491788577">https://www.amazon.com/Living-Poetry-Poetry-Expressions-Everyday-Experiences/dp/1491788577</a><br />
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Despite this incredible matriarchal inspiration, I still held my poetry close to my heart, sharing only bits and pieces with those within my very private intimate circle of friends. <br />
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The Embodied Shakti Summit inspired me to share one such poem live with others. I'll share it with you here. May it inspire you to return the gesture with some poetry of your own. May your pen flow with your words of emotion, connection, and inspiration as you release your inner poet.<br />
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"Toes in the Grass"<br />
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background: #c4e3e9;"><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-size: xx-small;">COPYRIGHT©2018
Yoga Girl Goes Vegan</span></span></span></div>
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<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Toes in the grass</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Face
in the sun</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Taking
the time to come undone</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Undone
as in unwind. Unwind as in unravel.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Finding
a free space to visit, to travel.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
travel with literal physicality far or near.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
travel with mind figuratively visiting those most dear.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Dear
as in close to the heart. Heart as it creates a smile.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Allowing
time to realize that not done in a while.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
while of brief decadence to experience the present.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
while of indulgence to grasp with great intent.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Toes
in the grass</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Face
in the sun</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Taking
the time to come undone</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Undone
as in limitless. Limitless as in free.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Letting
go of boundaries to sit, to just “be”.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
be with positive vigor, who you really are.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
be with positive splendor, to propel you far.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Far
as in embracing the quiet silently. Silently as in appreciating the
solitude.
</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Using
the gift to grow boundlessly with prosperous gratitude.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
gratitude moment of solace in which to reflect and to savor.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
gratitude moment of revel in all that you love and favor.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Toes
in the grass</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Face
in the sun</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Taking
the time to come undone</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Undone
as in silliness. Silliness as in complete folly.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Comforting,
rejuvenated with laughter, wit and jolly.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
experience jolly without care nor embarrassment.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
experience jolly without fear nor discernment.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Discernment
gone as judgment dissipates.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Relaxing
with a clarity of knowing its never too late.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
An
opportunity to reconnect with your tribe.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
An
opportunity to reestablish your true vibe.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Toes
in the grass</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Face
in the sun</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Taking
the time to come undone</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Undone
as in relinquish. Relinquish as in release.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Exhaling
with disappearance into your personal inner peace.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
meditate with full function, minus consternation.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
To
meditate with full focus and with re-dedication.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Re-dedication
of renewal of your purpose, of what is germane...and uniquely true.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Accepting
yourself as you emerge a spanking brand new...and uniquely you.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
new you, complete, refreshed and founded.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
A
new you, complete, beautiful and grounded.</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Leaping
up, toes strong in the grass</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Eyes
open, face awash in the sun</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Soul
valuing the time undone</div>
<div class="western" style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Refreshed
and ready for what is next to come.</div>
<br />
Namaste.</div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-41642737231773410722019-04-07T14:05:00.003-04:002019-04-14T10:47:22.594-04:00Embodied Shakti Summit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Yoga Girl goes Vegan is happy to participate as one of the presenters in this year's Embodied Shakti Summit sponsored by the Womb Centered Healing Temple.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Presenters will discuss health, wellness, nutrition, transformation, yoga, motivation, reiki, and relationships.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The summit will run April 5th - 19th, 2019.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Sign up for the free online summit at www.embodiedshaktisummit.com</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Transitioning to a plant based lifestyle will help energize your mind, body, and soul. </span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">Tracy of Yoga Girl goes Vegan will present how what we input affects our output and overall health.</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span><span style="color: #0b5394;">All summit participants will receive a free copy of Yoga Girl goes Vegan's latest eBook "Getting Started - Beginner's Guide to Plant Based Lifestyle Transition" </span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">#embodiedshaktisummittreasurehunt - Clue 15</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">She motivates, inspires, and shares</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">Because she feels, loves, and cares</span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;">For Clue 16: </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/181851085349188/?ref=bookmarks" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">https://www.facebook.com/groups/181851085349188/</span></a></div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-70545207984357311332014-12-31T19:43:00.001-05:002014-12-31T19:43:45.873-05:00Time Away...and Back<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It’s been a while since my last post. My
most recent time away demanded
more engagement in my physical
work than the virtual. I do not apologize
for the absence as the time away was well spent and desperately needed. I used my time away wisely. I enhanced my education, mentored, released, healed, and welcomed. It has provided rich fodder for upcoming
posts. I look forward to sharing it with
you. It is good to take time off the
grid to disassemble, disengage, and disappear to address disarray,
distraction, disassociation, disregard, and
disparagement.</div>
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In our world of
convenience, we have come to
expect constant communication, contact, and conveyance. It almost seems unconscionable to remove
yourself for an hour, a day, week, or few
months as we are led to believe we need to be constantly fed or stimulated. Think for a moment. How
much time do you really need or have to actively participate in the daily fast
paced world? Is it more important to be bombarded
daily with shallow vanities or to have meaningful interactions of
substance? When you find yourself
seeking pleasure or gratification from constant electronic connection, time to
take a break. Time to stand still
amidst chaos to regroup and reconnect with the simple beauty of naturalness
that surrounds us each day. Time to go within the simple beauty of silence.</div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Mauna</span></i></b><br />
In Yoga, the practice of silence is called Mauna. <a href="http://mydailyyogapractice.wordpress.com/2011/12/30/the-practice-of-silence-mauna/" target="_blank">My Daily Yoga Practice</a> describes mauna best:<br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">" <b>Mauna</b> is not just limited to the restriction of speech, but it is also about reducing and restricting the senses, inputs and stimulations of the mind. It is calming down the thought current and free the mind from restlessness. It is not merely practicing silence of speech, but also silence of the mind. It helps to purify the mind to a deeper level." </span></i><br />
<br />
The practice of Mauna is just what I needed to go inside, to cocoon myself as I set upon the path of metamorphosis.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">met-a-mor-pho-sis</span> </i> </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into</b></span><b style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: right;"> a completely different one,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: right;"> in two or more distinct stages by natural means.</b></div>
<br />
<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></i>
<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stage 1 - Cocooning</span></b></i><br />
Funny, your body will talk to you and tell you what you need to do...if you take the time <br />
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to listen. I had developed a terrible pain in my left knee - a result of repetitive, overuse and abuse of the sciatic nerve. My practice and daily regimen was affected. I visited a local studio for help where I met an incredible being and yogi, whom I had never met before, Empress Thandi. She immediately "felt" me in the midst of my chaos and told me I was in conflict. That the pain I had begun to feel was physical manifestation of my internal chaos. The Empress was correct, she had "read" me in just a few seconds. She could see what I had not been able to...conflict in my within my professional world, fear to embrace the next stages of my life, failure to release what needed to go, resistance to move, failure to grow. Her objectivity was just what I needed to initiate cocooning, to heal, to reflect, to resolve...to unplug and tap in. I needed to go away, I needed to go within.<br />
<br />
I started by releasing of a paragraph of a personal writing I had been holding close for a few years. It glimpse of my most intimate and personal work. I shared it with a distant, respected friend. The freedom and exhilaration of revealing a vulnerability felt good. While it opened me up to feel empowered, I questioned why I needed the acceptance in the first place. It was evident that I needed to unplug. So I did. I just went "away" mentally and physically. I made it "real". I stopped everything - writing, practicing, doing, "participating", and producing. I went silent. For eight months, I enveloped myself within the cocoon of Mauna. I made my unplugging tangible.<br />
<br />
I challenge each of you to unplug from the electronic world for a moment, Disassociate to take a cleansing breath. Tap in to your true self. Actually look, see and feel what is real and true. You will realize you now have the time to accomplish that what you seek. I used my time away to do just this very thing. Go within. Listen to the "voice" of wisdom. In the short span of these past eight months while I was “away”, I have been able to achieve two of the aspirations which blessed my list. Along the way, I was able to meet new people, with new focus, new agenda, new path facilitating growth and strengthening my “return”. I now do so with eager veracity, void of negative influences, infused with gratitude, and ready to share with a clearer focus of where I am to “go” next.<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Stage 2 - Cleansing</i></b></span></div>
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Time away cleanses the mental, physical and spiritual
self. It is the foundation of retreats
and vacations. The purpose is to remove
yourself from the very things which took you off track in the first place. Start your cleanse. Address your conflicts, one at a time. Initiate your healing. Jump start your success - purge. Remove negative influences - physical, mental, people, situations and "things". With your new clean slate, during your time away, revisit your one, two, five or even 10 year goals. If you never had one, use this time to create
them. What are your aspirations?
Where do you see yourself within those time bands? What do you need to get there? Is each goal positive to help you be the
best you can be? Does each objective
help you help others with servitude and humility? Do they promote your growth and the growth of
those around you? If you have already pre-established
a few dreams for yourself….where are you in the timeline of
accomplishment? Have you started? Have you procrastinated? Or… have you achieved? Time away from detractors and distraction enables focus on
what is real, what is truth. This cleansing opened me up to acceptance of what I am to BE. I emerged from my cocoon ready to heal my body to embrace my new self. </div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stage 3 - BE it. (Embracing)</span></b></i></div>
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I realized that I can just "be" and I don't have to make any specific choices. I can DO anything I choose. I can do it all or I can do none or just a few. It doesn't matter as long as I continue to "BE". Being is true self acceptance. It is true existence in the present with clarity. The respite I experienced during Mauna fostered personal "growth". I have accepted new life, let go that which did not suit me, and decided to physically "wear" it by letting the truth show through the gray and silver stands intertwined in my hair - no more covering up the truth of my years. I am happy to BE. I have returned to my practice, resumed my writing. I am Yoga Girl goes Vegan, I am a matriarch, a lover, friend, yogi, hippy, bohemian, vegan, and powerful earthling. I affirm my healing as the pain slowly subsides and ebbs away from my physical self. I embrace that I walk my talk, I don't have to conform, I don't have to conflict, I don't have to do or be anything I don't want to be. I am successful and incredible just as I am. <br />
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Yes, with a smile, as I’ve said so many times before,
affirm your success. Say it, believe it,
do it….BE it. Put your plan in
place. Make your dreams come true. Who will you BE when you return from your
time away? With positive intention and
supportive patience, I bid you happiness as you leave. Enjoy your trip as you revisit your “self”. Rejoice!
Upon your return, abundantly and
selflessly share the gifts you received during
your time away as I freely, now share with
you.</div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stage 4 - Emerging</span></b></i><br />
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As this year ends and the new one reveals itself, I eagerly emerge and return as a new creature ready for the next chapter of my writings, with gratitude, healing, growth and the beauty of the new creature I have become. I am ready to spread my new wings of love over all I encounter with a brilliant kaleidoscopic bursting with bright light and color.<br />
With exuberance, I wish you a colorful cocooning and an emergent, freedom-filled Happy New Year!<br />
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<i style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Yoga: Om Namah
Shivah</b></i></div>
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Om Namah Shivah is a mantra which means to honor and be
true to Shiva or “self”. When distracted, we lose focus of our purpose
and who we are. Taking time away to
discover ourselves awakens the Divine bestowed within us. It initiates the stages of our metamorphosis, reestablishes the purity of our truth, fosters our personal path to growth, and allows us to
use the light of our individual gifts to selflessly give to others. </div>
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Namaste.<br />
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-58676235705939521832014-03-03T02:10:00.001-05:002014-03-03T02:10:43.532-05:00Be the Lighthouse<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I recently reconnected with friend whom I've known for 35 years. Although our contact has been intermittent and we've often experienced time lapses extending years of non communication, it feels as if it were just a moment ago the instant we speak again. This is due to his intense gift of light and how he uses it. For this reason, I, like many others, find myself drawn to him and enjoy engaging within the light he so generously shares. Even as a young man, my friend, author Mark Aycox, possessed the gift of patience, listening, and guidance often speaking from a vantage point infused with wisdom. To me, he represents more than just light - he is a light<i><b>house</b></i>, one who stands quietly still in the midst of chaos, using the light from within to guide the wayward to safe harbor. I am grateful my path has continued to be blessed with his sagacity.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">One More Rep</span></b></i><br />
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Mark recently published his first novel, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-More-Rep-Mark-Aycox-ebook/dp/B00HZETL1S/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393816863&sr=1-1&keywords=mark+aycox" target="_blank">One More Rep</a>. He describes it as "Schwarzenegger meets Siddhartha". It is the coming of age story of a fitness trainer faced with selecting the correct path as he directs others during the fitness craze some years ago. Mark does not profess any allegiance to veganism however, I highlight and support his work here because he "gets it" championing the same cries as many of my vegan colleagues. Mark's inner yogi brilliantly uses this book, under the guise of fiction (cleverly interwoven between character interactions), to introduce readers to various real-life thought provoking subjects which impact our physiological health and psychological wellness:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>importance of regular physical movement</li>
<li>respect for our bodies (they really are our temples)</li>
<li>impact of poor nutrition</li>
<li>importance and frequency of bowel movements (yes, twice a day!)</li>
<li>detrimental affects of milk, dairy, and excessive intake of protein</li>
<li>harm of processed foods, sugary drinks and dietary supplements<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>rejection of genetically modified (GMO) foods and conglomerate corporate manipulation of fruits and vegetables (which is solely for profit-not our health)</li>
<li>the unnatural "synergistic relationship" between meat, chemical, dairy industries and political, lobbyist-laden, so-called food regulatory agencies (again, for profit only)</li>
<li>reducing technological dependency; unplugging - replacing with intelligent reading material and preservation/appreciation of the arts and literature (expand mental stimulation)</li>
<li>reducing our carbon footprint; living simplistically; get off the grid</li>
<li>importance of finding resolution and solace with the unrequited including self awareness/image/esteem</li>
<li>respect for nature, all creatures and beings </li>
<li>learning lessons from the small things in life</li>
<li>the value of patience, quiet listening and growth</li>
<li>the importance of giving and receiving grace and guidance</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Be more than the Light...</b></i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Js_juwybcSxmImL7A_lx5lB4AT4y02mAszsP-M_rHtME7RX4w0F-spGVNZz3A407shQLxQhm2V5aec6R8N6Rl_2cV3ic2L4B7THV-8p9aVhVYBh0MosTOW2LLSHAv1JUYsLHI9-zuaOm/s1600/Lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Js_juwybcSxmImL7A_lx5lB4AT4y02mAszsP-M_rHtME7RX4w0F-spGVNZz3A407shQLxQhm2V5aec6R8N6Rl_2cV3ic2L4B7THV-8p9aVhVYBh0MosTOW2LLSHAv1JUYsLHI9-zuaOm/s1600/Lighthouse.jpg" height="148" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Be more than the light...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am entertained, emotionally moved, awestruck, and proud of the work of my friend. He has managed to use the wisdom hidden in his light for the betterment of others. Each of us will recognize someone or a part of ourselves in one of his characters. For some in the book, it's too late. Yet, for each of us reading, there is still a chance... a chance for redemption, a chance to change - to realize that as we are guided, we too must guide - to recognize, use and share our gifts, our path, and our light to discover that we too, have been blessed with the ability to shine from within with rejoice, resilience, humility and servitude to guide through to smooth seas. Use your chance to rise, use it to be more than the light...use it be the Lighthouse.<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Be the Light (Mantra Mala)- Aykanna ©2012</span></i></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Be the Light, be the Lighthouse</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Stomp your feet and clap your hands</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Lift your hearts to chant</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">We've got to come together</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Serve your neighbor</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Serve your friend,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Serve each other till the end,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Live for one another.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">I am thine in mine myself, Wahe Guru</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Humee Hum Tumee Tum Wahe Guru</span></i>!</div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Yoga: Ahimsa</i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Revered in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism, Ahisma means love of all living thi</span><span style="color: #134f5c;">ngs. It also means respect for all beings. A true yogi practices ahisma and exhibits love regardless of a station, title, category, or status. Guiding lights have no judgment for they shine for all who seek. </span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;">Namaste.</span></div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-2551449928118771092013-12-08T16:07:00.001-05:002021-02-13T19:51:10.483-05:00Time Away<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It’s been a while since my last post. My
most recent time away demanded
more engagement in my physical life than the virtual. I do not apologize
for the absence as the time away was well spent and desperately needed. I used my time away wisely. I enhanced my education, mentored, released and welcomed. It has provided rich fodder for upcoming
posts. I look forward to sharing it with
you. It is good to take time off the
grid to disassemble, disengage, and disappear to address disarray, disassociation, disregard, and
disparagement.<br />
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In our world of
convenience, we have come to
expect constant communication, contact, and conveyance. It almost seems unconscionable to remove
yourself for an hour, a day, week, or few
months as we are led to believe we need to be constantly fed or stimulated. Think for a moment. How
much time do you really need or have to actively participate in the daily fast
paced world? Is it more important to be bombarded
daily with shallow vanities or to have meaningful interactions of
substance? When you find yourself
seeking pleasure or gratification from constant electronic connection, time to
take a break. Time to stand still, in the midst of chaos, to regroup and reconnect with the simple beauty of naturalness
that surrounds us each day. Time to
cleanse.</div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cleansing</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sPjYrFf_vBQ92tanZxmPzFmDz7M2bKz1abdHLfWq9aINZU3lzlWmu_vVDKzZ95hyRVgJhyqPcFBeW3P7EcNiVJ52AxW1lTkrCJI-CsOcRNxcq-QtZAIfhcTXrOQUkWuMF1Wk-XsLO6Gq/s1600/take-time+off.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sPjYrFf_vBQ92tanZxmPzFmDz7M2bKz1abdHLfWq9aINZU3lzlWmu_vVDKzZ95hyRVgJhyqPcFBeW3P7EcNiVJ52AxW1lTkrCJI-CsOcRNxcq-QtZAIfhcTXrOQUkWuMF1Wk-XsLO6Gq/s320/take-time+off.jpg" width="240" /></a>Time away cleanses the mental, physical and spiritual
self. It is the foundation of retreats
and vacations. The purpose is to remove
yourself from the very things which took you off track in the first place. Start your cleanse. During your time away, revisit your goals. If you never established any, use this time to create
them. What are your aspirations?
Where do you see yourself within future time bands? What do you need to get there? Is each goal positive to help you be the
best you can be? Does each objective
help you help others with servitude and humility? Do they promote your growth and the growth of
those around you? If you have already pre-established
a few dreams for yourself….where are you along your path of accomplishment? Have you started? Have you procrastinated? Or… have you achieved? Time away from distraction enables focus on
what is real, what is true. </div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Unplug and tap in</b></i></span></div>
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Unplug from the electronic world for a moment. Disassociate to take a cleansing breath. Tap in to your true self. Actually look, see, and feel what is real and true. You will realize you now have the time to
accomplish that what you seek. I used my
time away to do just this very thing. In
the short span of these past three months while I was “away”, I have been able
to achieve two of the aspirations which blessed my list. Along the way, I was able to meet new
people, with new focus, new agenda, new path
facilitating growth and strengthening my “return”. I now do so with eager veracity, void of
negative influences, infused with gratitude, and ready to share with a clearer
focus of where I am to “go” next.</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>BE it</b></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwVzTT1pPH4-Wj7v2NGrH4rO676TDiaQRa3lmXIDHQyk8WR3DnEY59vttLZoewm-eljbq6rgB9Y1jTZDdfCjs_WV36GR7X3jTOQrY8sw9HyUL1bOTwozyFG1Tr8KBtgGddiSBLlmtkNeM/s1600/be.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwVzTT1pPH4-Wj7v2NGrH4rO676TDiaQRa3lmXIDHQyk8WR3DnEY59vttLZoewm-eljbq6rgB9Y1jTZDdfCjs_WV36GR7X3jTOQrY8sw9HyUL1bOTwozyFG1Tr8KBtgGddiSBLlmtkNeM/s320/be.jpg" width="320" /></a>Yes. With a smile, as I’ve said so many times before,
affirm your success. Say it, believe it,
do it….BE it. Take the time to find and put your plan in
place. Make your dreams come true. Who will you BE when you return from your
time away? With positive intention and
supportive patience, I bid you happiness as you leave. Enjoy your trip as you revisit your “self”. Rejoice!
Upon your return, abundantly and
selflessly share the gifts you received during
your time away as I freely, now share with
you.</div>
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Namaste</div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Yoga: Om Namah
Shivaya</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;">Om Namah Shivaya is a cleansing, redeeming mantra which means to honor and be
true to Shiva or inner “self”. When distracted, we lose focus of our purpose
and who we are. Taking time away to
discover ourselves awakens the divine bestowed within us. It reestablishes our truth, our personal path to growth, and allows us to
use individual gifts we have to selflessly give. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"> </span></div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-17045799973599315312013-08-31T23:59:00.002-04:002013-09-01T00:48:26.050-04:00Love Belongs to Everyone<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This past month has been month filled with Love. Love of practice, Love of beings, Love of life, Love of Love. I was honored to BE in the presence of two love ceremonies, feel new love through new friendships, and cherish the embrace of the love of old all in the midst of yogis who love yoga. It was appropriate to me that all of this occurred during this month of "Rawgust", celebrating love of raw veganism. I have had an incredible month full of Love. As I reflected, I thought, "wow, this feels so good, everyone deserves to feel the way I do". Then it hit me, everyone CAN feel this way because Love belongs to everyone.<br />
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The revelation of this brought tears to my eyes. Leading up to the first ceremony, I had been listening to the song "Love Belongs to Everyone" by David Newman (Durga Das). I loved the song. It starts with the Gayatri mantra, one of the oldest and most powerful mantras for cleansing and purification. It loosely translates "May all beings on earth reach enlightenment." It is a mantra of unity and love of fellow man. It is comprised of three (3) parts: praise, meditation, and prayer.<br />
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At the time, I had no idea why I was to drawn to this song. It was on my playlist. I knew of David briefly years before but I was not ready to receive his message. During the first love ceremony, a four-day Bohemian Hippy Yogafest Love Ceremony, we attended a kirtan with him. The music he and his wife brought to us was a testament and demonstration of their love. As we sang along, it flowed through each of us. This love now belonged to each of us.<br />
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Love Belongs to Everyone/Gayatri <span style="font-size: xx-small;">David Newman©2012</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Om Bhur Bhuva Svaha Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i> Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat.</i></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Love belongs to everyone, love belongs to everyone, love belongs to everyone…</i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">we belong to Love.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Frame by frame, here and now, yours and mine is just a stepping stone, love will </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>never let you go, it will satisfy your soul!</i></span></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Number Three</span></b></i><br />
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It was not lost to me that this experience felt very spiritual for this month was a month of three's:<br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">* 3 Celebrations: Love of friends, love of family, love of raw life </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">* The Gayatri is comprised of three parts: praise, meditation, and prayer. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">* It marked the beginning of the 3rd year since I decided to pledge fully to a vegan life</span><br />
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In Yoga, according to the Bhagavad Gita, there are 3 paths to yoga: Karma, Bhakti, Jnana (selflessness, devotion, knowledge). I spoke with my soul twin who also revealed that she too is attracted to the number 3. It is significant in many religions:</div>
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Christianity - Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Ghost)<br />
Hindi - Trinity (Purusha, Shakti, Own/self); 3 is also the base of the sacred number 108 for mantra and prayer<br />
Buddhism - 3 precious jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha)<br />
Islam - 3 stages in Life/faith<br />
Judiasm - 3 symbolizes a harmony synthesizes two opposites<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Grounding and Witnessing</span></i></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuSKFxGOBrV7EhI6BZC1atYB58MJWKoxdqBrheUsRWxriCxWHYekPvEtMsGQCrscBPqorjrv3167Nbckezecrczel2QvoEd9T3idDkez5-rA5kZgJavq7rgyK7kMH69-K8Zw0bXZhFWog/s1600/Danelle+&+Bobby+Wedding+073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyuSKFxGOBrV7EhI6BZC1atYB58MJWKoxdqBrheUsRWxriCxWHYekPvEtMsGQCrscBPqorjrv3167Nbckezecrczel2QvoEd9T3idDkez5-rA5kZgJavq7rgyK7kMH69-K8Zw0bXZhFWog/s320/Danelle+&+Bobby+Wedding+073.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honored to witness the grounding of this love</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I feel grounded and embraced within these threes. I feel free to love all and to BE demonstrative to show that we all are responsible to care for the portion of love entrusted in our care. In the span of just 3 weeks, I witnessed acts of love of those who realize their belonging:</div>
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<li><span style="color: red;">the love of the childhood friend that feels like just this mmorning when it was actually 27yrs</span></li>
<li><span style="color: orange;">the two love partners together for 19yrs who expressed their love by dancing openly for the first time</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;">the anesthesiologist that loves to spread joy with her song and dance</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">the skydiver who welled up when he spoke of his love for his yogini queen</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">the holistic oncologist who illuminated her new mate in new light never before seen</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #073763;">the corporate engineer who is still just the girl from around the way with the big smile and humble heart full of love</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">the man who expressed love and honor of his friendship to the Supreme Goddess Mama</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000;">the man who held fast and patiently waited for his love of 29 years</span></li>
<li><span style="color: orange;">the owner of <a href="http://www.pumphousebandb.com/" target="_blank">Pump House Bed and Breakfast</a>who with a labor of love created a beautiful respite in the woods in the middle the mountains</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;">the gentlemen from India who selflessly came to help transitioning vegans from the love of their hearts</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">the <a href="http://jenmcgown.com/" target="_blank">soul twin yogi sister</a>who speaks as I speak, thinks as I think, feels as I feel, loves as I love and is as unconditional as unconditional can be</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #3d85c6;">those who every day post, write, inspire, teach help support and love those whom they do not know.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #073763;">the two yogi partners who with love, hosted our Kirtan with,<a href="http://peaceofmindyogastudio.moonfruit.com/" target="_blank">Peace of Mind"</a></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">the Durga Das and his wife who reminds us that we all have love to share.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000;">the Minstrel who found his Goddess the 4th time around</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #f1c232;">the photographer whose love of love captured most precious of moments and spaces</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #6aa84f;">the niece who traveled 1100 miles by car round trip in 3 days to say goodbye to love that transitioned</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #0b5394;">the raw vegan now raising a calf and a goat in need of love</span></li>
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<i><b><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You Are Love</span></b></i><br />
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What love have you witnessed? How have you cared for the love you've been entrusted with? As you acknowledge the love you receive? How do you share it? As you show your love, feel the love you deserve and remember the compassion of the threes:<br />
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Love belongs to me, I am Love<br />
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Love belongs to you, You are Love<br />
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Love belongs to everyone, We are Love.<br />
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Embrace it, let it fill you, let it surround you, then give it graciously and freely.<br />
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Namaste.<br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Trikonasana - Triagle Pose</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">Trikonasana is said to make the sacrum feel comfortable. The sacrum is a large triangular bone at </span><span style="color: #073763;">the base of spine and houses the kundalini -the center of our power and desire to love. Triangle pose teaches 3 lessons: stability, grounding and expansion. </span></div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-86559613127659467512013-08-01T01:13:00.000-04:002013-08-01T01:13:34.150-04:00Raw Inspiration<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
RAWGUST (Raw + August) is here. It's one of my favorite times of the year. This year marks the third Rawgust anniversary for me. As I reflect, I am grateful for growth. While I still have much to learn, I've begun the transitional journey from student to teacher in such a short period of time.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Paying it Forward</i></b></span><br />
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In my initial post, <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2011/07/ready-for-rawgust.html" target="_blank">Ready for Rawgust</a>, I spoke about creativity and personal commitment. This year, my focus is to teach, guide and inspire as many as I can. I've been fortunate to study under those who have inspired me, whom I now consider friends. What each of these individuals has done is to pay it forward - giving in order to give, reaching in order to reach, sharing in order to share, teaching in order to teach. <br />
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Rawgust for me this year is all about spreading inspiration - to be a source in the same manner as those who have inspired me, to give as freely as I have received. This year, instead of just participating, I am set to inspire with raw determination, to lead by example, to help. I've decided to co-coach a juice cleanse and to offer free, compassionate support to anyone who wishes to replace at least one meal per day with fruit and vegetable alternatives, and to provide physical health awareness and suggestions. With good fortunate, I do so with the assistance of a few wonderful souls who, daily, seek to positively awaken "the being within" by evoking the simplistic enormity of their hearts with humility, grace, peace and love. These kind earthlings inspire as they offer their tremendous light to all they encounter. I am grateful for their selflessness.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Not A Gimick</i></b></span><br />
Rawgust is not a gimicky play on words. It's an opportunity to introduce the concept of incorporating and increasing whole, live foods back into daily meals. As stated previously, it takes twenty-one days to effect change. The true spotlight of Rawgust provides the platform for the time needed to jump start the behavior modification process. Rawgust is not designed to force "conversion". It's purpose is to educate. It's more of "try it, you will like it". Those who try will be able to compare the differences in their lives, measure the increase in energy, the improvement in health, the overall feeling of well-being, and in some instances, the loss of weight.<br />
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Rawgust is a tool to inform and to expand knowledge bases. If a few individual life-time converts develop along the way, awesome!<br />
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However...if just a few people, made a few changes, for a few days, then celebration of the first step should be championed with the same zealousness for it sometimes takes more courage to take first step than to dive straight in, especially if one has had a previous negative experience with other "first steps". First steps take conscious thought, much different from the impulsive, impromptu nature of diving in.<br />
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Try It Out</i></b></span><br />
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Try it out. Join Rawgust. Seek assistance, put together a collaborative, realistic plan - it can be as simple as replacement of an order of chips with a piece of fruit 3 days per week or a two-day juice fast jump start. Rawgust is not just for August, it can be anytime. Regardless of when, Rawgust is for you, Rawgust is for me, Rawgust is for everyone.<br />
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Namaste.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Raw Resources for Raw Inspiration:</i></span></b><br />
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<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><u>Documentaries</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Fat Sick and Nearly Dead</span> <a href="http://www.fatsickandnearlydead.com/">http://www.fatsickandnearlydead.com/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Forks Over Knives</span> <a href="http://www.forksoverknives.com/">http://www.forksoverknives.com/</a><br />
<u><b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></b></u>
<u><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Getting Started</span></b></u><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Cooked to Raw Conversion Chart</span><br />
<a href="http://www.thebestofrawfood.com/raw-food-diet-conversion-chart.html">http://www.thebestofrawfood.com/raw-food-diet-conversion-chart.html</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Getting Started Simple Meal Suggestions</span><br />
<a href="http://www.thebestofrawfood.com/raw-food-diet-recipe-index.html">http://www.thebestofrawfood.com/raw-food-diet-recipe-index.html</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">5 Ways to Get Started </span><br />
<a href="http://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/5-ways-to-get-started-with-raw-food">http://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/5-ways-to-get-started-with-raw-food</a><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span>
<span style="color: #073763;"><u><b>Physical Health/Fitness</b></u></span> <br />
<span style="color: #990000;">SuperFit Vegan</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jeffsekerak">http://www.youtube.com/user/jeffsekerak</a><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span>
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><u><b>Resources and Recipes</b></u></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Plant Powered Living</span> <a href="http://www.plantpoweredliving.com/">http://www.plantpoweredliving.com/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Raw on $10 a Day or less</span> <a href="http://www.rawon10.com/">http://www.rawon10.com/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Sexy Raw Food and Fitness</span> <a href="http://sexyrawfoodandfitness.com/">http://sexyrawfoodandfitness.com/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Young on Raw Food</span> <a href="http://youngonrawfood.com/">http://youngonrawfood.com/</a><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><u>Support and Assistance</u></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Yoga Girl goes Vegan</span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/340272802668884/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/340272802668884/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Rawgust </span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/211503295564544/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/211503295564544/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Raw and Delicious Lifestyles</span><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/rawanddelicious/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/rawanddelicious/</a><br />
<span style="color: #990000;">Kalavati Health-Be Alive </span> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KalavatiAlive">https://www.facebook.com/KalavatiAlive</a><br />
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-50458944793485570942013-07-15T17:24:00.000-04:002013-07-15T17:24:02.700-04:00Sun SHINE<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Sunshine is our friend. It is the catalyst to health and wellness and the best natural source of Vitamin D. We all know what can happen if we spend too much time in the sun, but are you aware of what can happen if you don't get enough? Do you of the wonderful benefits of the sun?<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let the sun SHINE in</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_6IcV3fanRzsEXqE9dm5_-W-q6Hohyg7G97jObIAGT2BSyLnt0wMMm4YJwsCVN0Clgx3bhPNMQyLeX7BPNgh8wX2hO71zAfg8YHU3-C48qUceLBoMOyL6pFAQDUPtqe5n70HgJ5xcERI/s1600/sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_6IcV3fanRzsEXqE9dm5_-W-q6Hohyg7G97jObIAGT2BSyLnt0wMMm4YJwsCVN0Clgx3bhPNMQyLeX7BPNgh8wX2hO71zAfg8YHU3-C48qUceLBoMOyL6pFAQDUPtqe5n70HgJ5xcERI/s1600/sun.jpg" /></a></div>
In our recent history, we have been taught to shun or stay away from the sun. For thousands of years however, our ancestors worked, exposed daily, in the sun for hours, and our ancient predecessors actually worshipped the sun, never suffering from the sun-based ailments we suffer from today. So what happened? How did we transition from loving to fearing the sun? It is simple, our diets changed. When we ate diets heavy with whole fruits and vegetables, the sun was our friend, the catalyst to health. Now, as our diets are laden and clogged with processed and animal based foods, we have poor cell health and deficiencies which block our ability to naturally absorb the benefits provided by the sun. We need to let the sun shine and thrive within us in the same manner as our ancestors, and as a few native cultures which continue to do so today. We have to allow the sun to SHINE:<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>S</b></i></span>un <span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>H</i></b></span>elps <span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>I</b></i></span>nitiate <span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>N</i></b></span>atural <span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>E</b></i></span>quilibrium</div>
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When we let our life SHINE, the Sun:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>lowers cholesterol</li>
<li>improves sleep</li>
<li>provides natural protection against disease</li>
<li>promotes cell generation and growth</li>
<li>improves immune system</li>
<li>enhances well state of mind/mood and being</li>
<li>helps break down toxins</li>
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<i style="color: #c27ba0; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Vitamin D </b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf071IqEO9XxXDpb-0sqLiOrKsUst0F0oQN9atqeAJ2ftT9z2ofWL5uDtw8LGe4lCyGw0ttjbBSzyezeLOgipVYbmFKozCSfRJ5HADl1nOyg7b1Bnt7EMu7u0PiJ8ODERdhmhCAmKOj3kz/s1600/sun+tree+pose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf071IqEO9XxXDpb-0sqLiOrKsUst0F0oQN9atqeAJ2ftT9z2ofWL5uDtw8LGe4lCyGw0ttjbBSzyezeLOgipVYbmFKozCSfRJ5HADl1nOyg7b1Bnt7EMu7u0PiJ8ODERdhmhCAmKOj3kz/s1600/sun+tree+pose.jpg" /></a></div>
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The best source of Vitamin D is the Sun. Lack of Vitamin D can lead to cancer, however too much sun exposure is also a cancer source if you are not eating properly. Early morning sun establishes calmness and peace, but does not produce Vitamin D. Mid-day sun is optimum for Vitamin D absorption. This is also when deadly UV rays are the highest point as well. Over exposure can lead to illness and dis-ease. Daily, all you need to do is spend a solid 10-15 minutes in the mid-day sun to absorb Vitamin D. So it's a balancing act to understand when and how to spend time in the sun to reduce your risk of cancer instead of increasing it.<br />
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In addition to increased risk of cancer, deficiencies in Vitamin D can contribute to many illnesses including diabetes, elevated blood pressure (hypertension), heart dis-ease, weakened bones (osteoporoses), and multiple sclerosis.<br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Watch the Sun Screen</b></i></span><br />
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Sun screen products block the harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays. However, they also block the ability to absorb and produce natural vitamin D. Remember, for healthy sun absorption, you only need 10-15 min per day, unless you are already suffering from a melonoma, let the sun block go for a few moments to initiate the Vitamin D and cell growth processes.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sun Bathing</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyq3xnP68MWrg6dSRees2G8EQpRimYBA3dFohHkYcGAQDtpK1iTLIC46imzrl06Sc4E1rT4ECCoHpo_-lFSh4fvC1vSZLKd3E5CPp2CFg1pesLBpCJvlhY8medAHTedrF0wJ-LyYxmkavB/s1600/sun+bathing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyq3xnP68MWrg6dSRees2G8EQpRimYBA3dFohHkYcGAQDtpK1iTLIC46imzrl06Sc4E1rT4ECCoHpo_-lFSh4fvC1vSZLKd3E5CPp2CFg1pesLBpCJvlhY8medAHTedrF0wJ-LyYxmkavB/s320/sun+bathing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The purpose of sun bathing should not be for vanity. It is not about getting a "tan". If done properly, sun bathing has great health benefits. It contributes to clear skin, reduces risk of heart attacks, and high blood pressure. The key is to do so responsibly. Steps for safe and effective sun bathing are:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>hydrate, hydrate hydrate</li>
<li>eat properly - reduce or eliminate animal and processed foods. A clean body will reduce risks of cancers and sunburn</li>
<li>bathe in the mid-day sun between 11am and 3pm when the sun's rays are at peak levels. </li>
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Many argue this is the most dangerous times for sun exposure. However, exposure times should be based upon consumption habits, health history, and skin tone. The fairer your skin, initially, you need to spend the least amount of time, perhaps 2-3 min, the darker your skin, you can stay out a little longer. Daily maximum times to spend in the sun varies for each person. For some it is 15 minutes per day, while for others, a few hours. Regardless of where you begin, you can gradually increase your exposure safely by adding a minute or two per day. Sunburn occurs only when time in the sun is not spent wisely, causing overexposure.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Sun Gazing</i></b></span><br />
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Sun gazing is the age-old act of staring directly into the sun. For some it is spiritually based, while for<br />
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others, it is to increase energy levels. The best time to sun gaze is different than that of sun bathing. When sun gazing, it is best to do so before 11am or after 3pm when the rays are not at peak levels. If not done properly or during high sun (mid-day), you run the risk of permanently damaging your eyes or causing blindness. To sun gaze, stand barefoot or in a restful pose. Look initially for 10 seconds, gradually increasing by 10 seconds each day for up to 1 hour. Why do this? It is said that sun gazing promotes hormone growth by stimulating the pineal gland, increases production of serotonin and melatonin which are the body's natural endorphins that help us feel "good" or exhibit positive mood. If you are interested, please research and seek the guidance of a practioner who can help facilitate the process safely to avoid detrimental results. <br />
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We are graced with the awesome powers of the Sun. Accept its gifts with gratitude. Spend a day in the sun. Plan activities based upon optimum sun exposure times:<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Morning: </i></b></span>Sun-Salutation<br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Mid-Day</span></b></i>: Sun Bathing and Vitamin D absorption<br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Afternoon:</span></b></i> Sun Gazing<br />
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Enjoy the resulting euphoric mood and positivity. Rejoice, bask, and SHINE!<br />
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<b style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Surya Namaskar - Sun Salutation</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngyo8x_Fa_vC582xZ2vQkshnIB2EPbpGlb2bphmmdO-TcO-lUi2FnAnvr7SD2NMmJr9_fbEnWCo-pVj1_J0ZuML7i1bUS1PMvMwojGzRYXq-HH_kd1LpwA0R8N_p1IIoINnUf7HtGECrP/s1600/sun+salutation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngyo8x_Fa_vC582xZ2vQkshnIB2EPbpGlb2bphmmdO-TcO-lUi2FnAnvr7SD2NMmJr9_fbEnWCo-pVj1_J0ZuML7i1bUS1PMvMwojGzRYXq-HH_kd1LpwA0R8N_p1IIoINnUf7HtGECrP/s1600/sun+salutation.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">The purpose of the Sun Salutation is to honor the sun. Surya Namaskar means to bow to the sun). It is a series of 12 asanas practiced together in a flow which many use to start their day. Surya Namaskar is traditionally practiced at sunrise, facing the sun. It is sometimes practiced with recitation of mantras for honoring the Sun, honoring nature and to obtain spiritual balance...a beautiful way to start each day.</span></div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-65967545298697223052013-03-27T22:57:00.000-04:002013-03-27T22:57:42.368-04:00Eat your Vitamins!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep Green Leafy Vegetables - Source of multiple vitamins </td></tr>
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Where do you get your protein? Do you use supplements? Do you suffer any deficiencies? Do you take vitamins? These are some of the questions I am asked on a frequent basis. Let me answer: I get protein from my fruit and vegetable intake, I do not consume supplements, I am not suffering from any deficiencies and I don't take vitamins.... I eat them. Yes, I eat my vitamins. Fruits and vegetables provide an abundance of the vitamins we need for health. For every animal based "vitamin" source, there is a natural, plant-based alternative. So here's a jump start for you:<br />
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Vitamin A</span></b> - dark green leafy vegetables (especially spinach), carrots, pumpkin, squash, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes for: immune system, bones & teeth; aids vision<br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>Vitamin C</b></span> - berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupes, peppers, lettuce, papayas, mangoes, kiwi for: bones, teeth, gums, blood vessels, antioxidants; aids iron absorption; immune system health<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwFLGavBGfM7z5Z8jphb0R7fOMUwvzKWDYny-0WGp_eZW7-k8g2fH9i-A_CI3NlWgTvMjnD7fSvkJZfOspkmkzeQwEFpxBgmlUWgTQyyONKI_Z-1CSnRg7iBavrLImFojYGQPoey2CwB7/s1600/vitamn+c+sources.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwFLGavBGfM7z5Z8jphb0R7fOMUwvzKWDYny-0WGp_eZW7-k8g2fH9i-A_CI3NlWgTvMjnD7fSvkJZfOspkmkzeQwEFpxBgmlUWgTQyyONKI_Z-1CSnRg7iBavrLImFojYGQPoey2CwB7/s400/vitamn+c+sources.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few Vitamin C Sources</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Vitamin D</span></b> - sunshine 10-15 minutes/day calcium<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOjJt0lqqYhkBBLnPsVH1JyO6Auip73JqBNwuCCMkslgztgDVJJ6ssC3K10Gq7Hm1R3C-XMAZvPdf0esiSbpb3DqaHNMoYGIimpHr54PDqpRdUnuJBnv46M6ddKZVj7wKe8ubVQyF1d_F/s1600/practice+in+the+sun2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmOjJt0lqqYhkBBLnPsVH1JyO6Auip73JqBNwuCCMkslgztgDVJJ6ssC3K10Gq7Hm1R3C-XMAZvPdf0esiSbpb3DqaHNMoYGIimpHr54PDqpRdUnuJBnv46M6ddKZVj7wKe8ubVQyF1d_F/s320/practice+in+the+sun2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vitamin D - Enjoy this gift from the sun. <br />
Spend time daily, in practice, basking in the rays</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #073763;">Vitamin E</span></b> - avocado, nuts, seeds, dark green leafy vegetables for: cell protection, red cell growth, skin/tissue repair, hair, and antioxidants <br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><b>Vitamin K</b></span> - dark green leafy vegetables, cabbages for: bone formation, blood clotting and repair<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6y5Ub14mUzp78lxWA9ivlBcHC0Qd3T9vz0OLZpjjT8dUVnQXHPcXeO5GDiLfyAhqaIfgDSZKQEjAJXPQ0VjfjALIKngacozJX4tGRX42pUKAtfeSMGg2YVTolfL48gjo488qXYJEWB-q/s1600/kale2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju6y5Ub14mUzp78lxWA9ivlBcHC0Qd3T9vz0OLZpjjT8dUVnQXHPcXeO5GDiLfyAhqaIfgDSZKQEjAJXPQ0VjfjALIKngacozJX4tGRX42pUKAtfeSMGg2YVTolfL48gjo488qXYJEWB-q/s320/kale2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King Kale: Vitamin A, B, C, E, K</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>The Mighty B's</b></i></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #274e13;">Vitamin B</span> </b>- bananas, seeds, deep green leafy vegetables for: energy; nerve growth; red blood cell regeneration<br />
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B1 - nuts, seeds</div>
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B2 - deep green leafy vegetables</div>
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B3 - mushrooms, asparagus, deep green leafy vegetables<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsmEsRYQ0zJAUOp6fJeAkLNqt-xWiUrpGAZ3cEjLa2SyJ1h-yZ-PMwbqGQX9FzjGBvtv0pQtDBngOf9xDgQICl578XAnyQWuruDPsITtmvZadshYRDq-TA4ahaWYZ8_RmjjDckBJTHw0H/s1600/asparagas+mushrooms.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsmEsRYQ0zJAUOp6fJeAkLNqt-xWiUrpGAZ3cEjLa2SyJ1h-yZ-PMwbqGQX9FzjGBvtv0pQtDBngOf9xDgQICl578XAnyQWuruDPsITtmvZadshYRDq-TA4ahaWYZ8_RmjjDckBJTHw0H/s1600/asparagas+mushrooms.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B3- Asparagus, Mushrooms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
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B6 - fruits, vegetables</div>
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B9 (Folic Acid) - deep green leafy vegetables</div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">B12 - yes, there are Vegan sources:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-W82Xc7aSC8Ce7Bmg_h1APvsPvQ2LcoYSjFJC9MmlZ6uXw8fOjtdE-LzEfogpN99Yx_IEKF9-NoJpZ1xed0xM9GYDC05sh0IvID_q1iRjYCUAyqCS0tvbspGq4K2ELtw6yOpOC7g53WR/s1600/seaweed+n+kelp.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI-W82Xc7aSC8Ce7Bmg_h1APvsPvQ2LcoYSjFJC9MmlZ6uXw8fOjtdE-LzEfogpN99Yx_IEKF9-NoJpZ1xed0xM9GYDC05sh0IvID_q1iRjYCUAyqCS0tvbspGq4K2ELtw6yOpOC7g53WR/s320/seaweed+n+kelp.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seaweed & Kelp noodles-Vitamins B12, A, C, E, K and folate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">green vegetables</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">kelp and seaweed</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">sprouted soybeans</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">sprouted seeds</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">root vegetables</span></div>
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<div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b> Other Goodies:</b></i></span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GR2siwZ8RJQ5PwjecYCiLAxh2XFTPrjkdMP8ZO2N4ocw3NGkWt7CMX9WE22kVVp_rGLZqSFMgoLIJ0WX27vTNkm88pahu38WNcO1dZgKJB3VueDgv4i1e9uSqrlUS3c2tHQNi1wXZ0tn/s1600/flax+smoothie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0GR2siwZ8RJQ5PwjecYCiLAxh2XFTPrjkdMP8ZO2N4ocw3NGkWt7CMX9WE22kVVp_rGLZqSFMgoLIJ0WX27vTNkm88pahu38WNcO1dZgKJB3VueDgv4i1e9uSqrlUS3c2tHQNi1wXZ0tn/s320/flax+smoothie.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banana smoothie with flax seeds: Omega 3, <br />
Potassium, Vitamin B</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Omega 3 - flax seeds; walnuts<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviXbFHh2Dg5PUn2gN3nEnxhQGFshC4Y3Vf-oyd5x34nxOSi-z1jD_b1lLpZh4eX6_83KvbQdkeAUb2SeDLGqWnlitjqVezyjso0H-NFxMuLNrfHZXF_jr56Nuken0uP4mnWg59sCcY3ws/s1600/protein+sources2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviXbFHh2Dg5PUn2gN3nEnxhQGFshC4Y3Vf-oyd5x34nxOSi-z1jD_b1lLpZh4eX6_83KvbQdkeAUb2SeDLGqWnlitjqVezyjso0H-NFxMuLNrfHZXF_jr56Nuken0uP4mnWg59sCcY3ws/s320/protein+sources2.JPG" width="320" /></a> <span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b> </b></i></span><br />
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We've got your protein coming right up!!!<br />
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These examples are just the tip of iceberg, do your homework, research and put together the fruits and vegetables you like. Examine your vitamin intake. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmHrMyitENI0uEozKOkgovhOZsdffdJdcPMijBMkLkUjpMpOnYB8TRmqcAmSiC1ICTlzEnAK0oT2TaARpmdludKPLefrbY5NEYhEd2oDq9KkhaiiUKTXZarHXTH4pJb_fWqGdSYZF7TgO/s1600/bitter+melon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmHrMyitENI0uEozKOkgovhOZsdffdJdcPMijBMkLkUjpMpOnYB8TRmqcAmSiC1ICTlzEnAK0oT2TaARpmdludKPLefrbY5NEYhEd2oDq9KkhaiiUKTXZarHXTH4pJb_fWqGdSYZF7TgO/s200/bitter+melon.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Try something new...Bitter Melon<br />excellent source Vitamin C</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Recognize those you are consuming. Identify what you are missing. Be adventurous. Try a new fruit or vegetable to experience a complete compliment of natural foods to facilitate all of the protein and vitamins your body needs. You don't have to supplement vitamins or proteins...all you have to do is eat them.<br />
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Live Life. Eat Raw!<br />
Namaste.<br />
<br /></div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-85259238067030474272013-02-28T23:58:00.002-05:002013-03-01T00:16:33.864-05:00RE-lease<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bb2ggH6hCtgk_luyF1P69EzsQUpvBoiMRO7NDNNT8eyWTGPRBeKBz6LKXdwXJPH7VMvTfeGAUnD_fYekL7HfwkVHNg5sbok0jMVdQukj7QGf1dOcw3P_Swt1Yt9TQMFT67oNwg5imLPE/s1600/refresh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0bb2ggH6hCtgk_luyF1P69EzsQUpvBoiMRO7NDNNT8eyWTGPRBeKBz6LKXdwXJPH7VMvTfeGAUnD_fYekL7HfwkVHNg5sbok0jMVdQukj7QGf1dOcw3P_Swt1Yt9TQMFT67oNwg5imLPE/s1600/refresh.JPG" /></a></div>
I've been <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>leasing. At first it was unintentional. My new work consumed the majority of my time every day for the past five months. I dedicated a lot of energy to it. This dedication took me away . Soon, I found myself letting go of the very things near and dear to me. I lost priority. I love my new work. I don't notice the 12-16 hours days. I like the feeling of that I am affecting change. It is a new project for me. I love the thrill of contributing to stories of success. Unfortunately, along the way, I realize that the more I <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>lished in my new found joy, the more lost I became in my "new" way of life - the very <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>ason I am working so hard in the first place<br />
<br />
<i><b><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Losing the Way</span></b></i><br />
When it became clear that I was<span style="color: #38761d;"> re</span>leasing my day to day touch and connection with my vegan community, no longer having time to create <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>cipes, post pictures, write, or coach others, a few things happened: First, one of my vegan idols reached out to me with an amazing, international offer. I accepted, adding to my already overloaded basket. The offer never materialized and was silently withdrawn, presented to someone else. My idol had <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>leased me, seeing what I could not see - that there was no way in which I could truly dedicate any <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>sources and that perhaps a better suited candidate is the way to go. Second, one of my vegan mentors, with no knowledge of my vegan idol, offered me an incredible opportunity to travel within the states, yet once again I could not partake. This time, my mentor just let me know the offer will wait for me. Once again, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>leased. These two things allowed me to look back into the bubble from whence I came to look with clarity, objectivity, and truth. I was on the outside looking in. Many had moved on and I lost touch. I had lost the way. However, the third occurrence put everything into a perspective. <br />
<b><i><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></b>
<b><i><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Finding the Path</span></i></b><br />
My yogic community was the one constant that embraced and supported. It was through this connection that I as able to <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>connect with myself. My sisterfriend soulmate Jen who is forever tapped into my psyche sent me a care package. In it was a mirror with a personal inscription to <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>MIND me of who I am, sweet grass to cleanse my environmental BODY, and some music filled with the sounds of gongs to <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>sound balance of SPIRIT. What a catalyst. the <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>connection of the three key elements of Yoga proved to be. Yoga for me is the way to my vegan path. It is who I am. What an epiphany. This connection caused me to look again at my "<span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>lease" with positive instead of negative to change the paradigm of "<span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>lease" and instead to see <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-lease. <br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Establishing Meaning</span></b></i><br />
This experience caused me to examine the prefix "<span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>". It means "again". It is typically a positive prefix. I pondered how the word "release" became associated with letting go? Perhaps <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-lease is just the opposite. If to "lease" is to obtain for a period of time, then perhaps <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-lease is to <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>-establish, to obtain again. Think about it. Many words that start with the prefix "<span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>" mean just that: <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>fresh, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>novate, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>-do, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>start, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>-engineer, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>new, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>juvenate, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>-claim, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>bound, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>calculate, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>-animate, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>group, etc. Of course there are words to the contrary, however this is the common meaning for <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>. So, I decided to go with the positive.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>RE-Leasing</b></i></span><br />
The joy and excitement of <span style="color: #38761d;">ret</span>urning was exhilarating. Many of my yogini sisters helped me find the way to my other love - my open, vegan life. As I coach others and experience in their <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>velation, I decided to get a coach of my own, someone who can objectively hold the light while I find my way out of the dark. Fortunately, I was able to sign up with a certified health coach. With serependity, my new health coach is a yogi. In just two coaching sessions, she has helped me <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>work my schedule, prioritize my daily workouts, and design how and when I'll practice yoga, do cardio/aerobic workouts, and <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>sume my strength/body building training. I am <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-leasing "me". I have actually begun to take my days off and work only 5 days a week. I have shortened my work days to about 10 hours. I have begun to write again and post pics of my fruits and veggies.<br />
<br />
As I <span style="color: #38761d;">ret</span>urn, I do so as a new creature. Nutritionally, my health coach and I decided I needed a <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>boot. I am on a 5 day juice feast to rid my body of the sluggishness I obtained from eating high fat raw vegan such as avocados, nuts, seeds,and almond milk banana smoothies daily. The detox will get me back on track to low fat raw vegan, energy and vitality - to as she puts it "to give me the energy to do the very things I wish to do". She helped me to find my balance and for that I am grateful. It's working. It's day 2 of my fast. I am writing, have completed a chakra cleanse, and went outside yesterday and ran for the first time in weeks.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What about you?</span></b></i><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiSzJDKBkohg47VsigB-QmPJu21PvAENcq7-IlLzgisffZTcsthh0gnwGLT6lfooduZGF2yHQOkhpAjyAfVrM_CGhjggCldO57s2tNVIviVQU1k4bctPfbtysj2kOr6zY3DPR2lbxPyvn/s1600/fall+colors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNiSzJDKBkohg47VsigB-QmPJu21PvAENcq7-IlLzgisffZTcsthh0gnwGLT6lfooduZGF2yHQOkhpAjyAfVrM_CGhjggCldO57s2tNVIviVQU1k4bctPfbtysj2kOr6zY3DPR2lbxPyvn/s320/fall+colors.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rebooting and Removing: Juice Feast/Fast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
How are things for you? Do you need to jump start? I <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>commend:<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Retrea</span>t-Yoga, spa, massage<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Reboot</span>-Watch movie Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Rework</span>-routines, re-prioritize<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Remove</span>-toxins (mental, physical, and spiritual)<br />
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If you don't need to <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-lease, then pay it forward with gratitude, <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>ach out to be a coach to someone else, help them find their way. Either way, look at any negative and turn it into a positive to know that some times you have to let go in order to gain, that you have to <span style="color: #38761d;">re</span>lease to find <span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span>-lease<br />
<b style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></b>
<b style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Utthita Hasta Padangustasana -Standing Big Toe Pose</i></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FZXiy1jyLK76_IQqeDfNzpTME8ZxX2wivv9Qk1F3PT7VPedaY9QxSlxZt_MRJYpc96ibpc2vvxVxx64Cf07_OEBlsUZLE-EnenvKb4q5AFJX86sXfJz93mxrwLsWbaP7m8uow9ULBCMT/s1600/rejoice+in+new+day.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FZXiy1jyLK76_IQqeDfNzpTME8ZxX2wivv9Qk1F3PT7VPedaY9QxSlxZt_MRJYpc96ibpc2vvxVxx64Cf07_OEBlsUZLE-EnenvKb4q5AFJX86sXfJz93mxrwLsWbaP7m8uow9ULBCMT/s320/rejoice+in+new+day.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">A pose that is grounding, balance, yet </span><span style="color: #38761d;">RE</span><span style="color: #073763;">leases to look toward a new direction, allowing you to be present and grounded in the present moment, yet rejoice in the newness of each day and as my dear friend says, to "expand outward"</span></div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-77363676192438830402012-12-31T21:57:00.000-05:002012-12-31T21:57:16.002-05:00Be IT<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As one year ends and another one begins, so many reflect over what they could have, would have or should have done. They "resolve" to be better, bigger, brighter, or anything associated with overcoming that which they failed to accomplish previously. <br />
It is commonly known that many do not achieve what they resolve and many fail resolution within the first weeks or months of declaring intentions.<br />
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Why? Very simple. A resolution is a wish without any plan to actually achieve it. It's just something simply said. In a previous post <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2011/09/affirmation.html">Affirmation</a>, I discussed how resolution is just a part of the formula. Instead of resolving, we must also affirm, to realize the words of our resolution to fruition.. To visualize it into reality.<br />
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To affirm successfully, you must continue pass the initial resolution stage of "say It". You must also, believe It, do It, and be It.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Saying IT</span></b></i><br />
Please do not think that I am minimizing the importance of resolution. Saying it is the first, crucial step. If we don't first say it, we can not proceed. It is key to verbally express your intent. Saying it incorporates reflection of where you have been, recognizes your present moment, and introduces where you plan to go. Saying it truthfully is the next step. If you distort any component in saying it, you are destined to break your resolve which is why many never move past this point. The problem is that most resolutions are passive intentions. For example, to say "I resolve to loose 30 lbs" without truthfully acknowledging how long it initially took you to gain those pounds, the habits that placed you 30lbs up or the real reason why you wish to loose it, will become burdensome and you may give up before you actually get started. Perhaps you really don't need to loose 30lbs. Perhaps you are only trying to loose weight for an artificial event or reason, or perhaps the real root cause is your health and to loose 30lbs is a by-product. So instead of resolving, say your intent with affirming truth "I reduce my pre-diabetes risks".<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Believing IT</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7OgL5qgZl77MP5D9G15S2xyyEbUcjIlVQKeqsEEq9l61RV785-JQ6uDW04EHIW2o83YVmTy6j-mD95oFdnf9gP1Nf9q4vf14sdKJKaQOBfWbcLaM_FnESD9OskvWc-bLtJ4msygKs9Y6/s1600/believe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH7OgL5qgZl77MP5D9G15S2xyyEbUcjIlVQKeqsEEq9l61RV785-JQ6uDW04EHIW2o83YVmTy6j-mD95oFdnf9gP1Nf9q4vf14sdKJKaQOBfWbcLaM_FnESD9OskvWc-bLtJ4msygKs9Y6/s320/believe.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The reason most do not get past the Say IT stage is because they either set a superficial resolution or they don't believe it themselves. A realistic statement that exemplifies your truth will lead to successful realization. You say what you believe and believe in what you say. When you believe your statement, you will exhibit it and those around you will believe it also. As said in the past, imagine yourself not failing. Believe in your success.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">"You must be the change you wish to see in the world"</span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">~ </span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Gandhi</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Doing IT</i></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZ6HktD2CGOOgsBoQpkl9j4M6S4kEa1Upt846_7hqZlnz7kWGcEQttmSQYS35X9sstX0Fn5yINhuDO6MYSpc_v1s2LhNzn3F56ChYIE3hc3ujcb1Ostv5vKTSHqJyfdBDmZsmINlyo05N/s1600/I+can+do+it.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZ6HktD2CGOOgsBoQpkl9j4M6S4kEa1Upt846_7hqZlnz7kWGcEQttmSQYS35X9sstX0Fn5yINhuDO6MYSpc_v1s2LhNzn3F56ChYIE3hc3ujcb1Ostv5vKTSHqJyfdBDmZsmINlyo05N/s320/I+can+do+it.JPG" width="252" /></a></div>
Saying and believing your statement is the catalyst. Remove the passivity of resolution - instead, do it. Actually doing It is the action to bring it to be. Remember<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>"Actions speaks louder than words"</b></i></span> </div>
Put your words into place. Prioritize the steps needed to accomplish what you desire to be. Address each step an item at a time. For example: "I live cruelty free". Begin by believing you are cruelty free in your actions and intentions. Make a list of things you will no longer do and those which you will: get rid of all of your animal based products, replacing each one-by one with cruelty free items - start with your pantry, the move on to your refrigerator, then your closet. As you move through the steps, acknowledge that you are "doing IT", say your affirmation out loud as you "do". Remember, no artificial or stressed-filled created/generated deadlines. Work through doing IT, one day, one step, one moment at a time.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Being IT</b></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8YtvAkk7dZ-KUvXNeS_5qyVMVCvhyWSbG9C3JvmjUWoaHaNcLwq8qEcpOOdqy5xDl-Giw6W9NMWen9Ue339y5IJtZrhOPWl23rKVHXdebzhbVGDKfk1UboP3lh8tI7U5AfPbu0qMv4Ew/s1600/affirmation2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8YtvAkk7dZ-KUvXNeS_5qyVMVCvhyWSbG9C3JvmjUWoaHaNcLwq8qEcpOOdqy5xDl-Giw6W9NMWen9Ue339y5IJtZrhOPWl23rKVHXdebzhbVGDKfk1UboP3lh8tI7U5AfPbu0qMv4Ew/s320/affirmation2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After you have done it, the final step is to actually Be IT. Being it is reinforcement and the physical manifestation of the original words "said". It is accomplishment of objective. Successfully being IT reinforces your belief in yourself and allows you to proudly state who you now are, for example: "I am vegan", "I climb mountains", "I run marathons", "Today is a great day", "I help the homeless", "Absolutely nothing is out of my reach", etc. Being IT transforms resolution into affirmation and affirmation into a positive self-fulfilling prophetic truth. When you have become that wish you sought to be, a euphoric empowerment washes over you, giving you the ability to "say it" again, to move on to do and be the next thing.<br />
So, whatever IT may be for you, as one year ends and a new one begins, remember to realistically wear the realization that "it" is more than resolution, "it" is affirmation. Proudly say it, believe it, do it.....BE IT.<br />
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Happy New Year</div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-39865617577389570402012-10-29T22:26:00.000-04:002012-10-29T22:26:23.538-04:00Being Super<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I apologize. I've been away for the past two months. I've been busy....busy taking on a full time project directing a group of health and wellness representatives. It has been hard, work, the hardest I've worked in recent years. I love it though. I feel as if the 12 to 16 hour workdays will be worth it, that the reward shall be realized through the positive results of those involved, to know that I am physically making a difference. Two weeks ago, after a particularly long, arduous yet successful task, my colleague commented that she felt as if the two of us were standing strong, each side by side with a huge "S" on our chests, capes flying in the wind....that we were incredible, that we were.... "super".<br />
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<i><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Super, Fit, and Vegan?</b></span></i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWYiejerbx21oqjLetUr9ZecjLHsZJD_MqOwLnS1iGnEhGY_Ornucy55OfRPOPFWw9mzEzuFekwSWqs1NqF6naHlNYpMUmHGkOhOnbRuM9PkKfCd8q0xmRrvLwPHQex0A0aQvBMdE2s0n/s1600/jeff+sekerak.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYWYiejerbx21oqjLetUr9ZecjLHsZJD_MqOwLnS1iGnEhGY_Ornucy55OfRPOPFWw9mzEzuFekwSWqs1NqF6naHlNYpMUmHGkOhOnbRuM9PkKfCd8q0xmRrvLwPHQex0A0aQvBMdE2s0n/s320/jeff+sekerak.JPG" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeff Sekerak, Super, Fit, and Vegan</td></tr>
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Wow. Super. The statement was true. We had worked hard and tirelessly because we believed in that in which we were engaged. As with everything in my recent life, I immediately applied the thought to my vegan path. How does the act of being super apply? Is there such a thing as a Super Vegan? When it comes to coaches, activism, cooking, nutrition, and education, many can think or name several super vegans. However, when it comes to the image of a vegan super man or super woman, not too many come to mind. That is due to the common misconception that vegans are scrawny and very thin in physique. There are many however, who proudly promote to the contrary. Along this journey, I've met many strong vegans who exhibit physical strength and fitness. Once such being is my friend, Jeff Sekerak, the Superfit Vegan. Jeff who daily runs several miles, practices yoga, completes intense workouts, and is the epitome, of fitness states there are: <br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><u>5 Proven Keys to being Super Fit for Life</u>:</span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #38761d;">Eat a 100% plant based diet (with emphasis on raw fruits
and greens)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">30-60 minutes of uninterrupted calisthenics per day</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">Fast walk, bike or run everywhere you go</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">Aspire to greatness in all you do (cultivate true
friendships, stand for something)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #38761d;">Enjoy silence (turn off the television)</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
Jeff practices what he preaches. He, along with his partner, Megan, are committed to:</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Humility</b></span> -
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PowerOfSimplicity?fref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/PowerOfSimplicity?fref=ts</a></li>
<li><span style="color: #990000;"><b>Love </b></span>-
<a href="http://veganplusvegan.com/">http://veganplusvegan.com/</a></li>
<li><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Education</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></b>-
<a href="http://superiorbodyhealth.com/blog/">http://superiorbodyhealth.com/blog/</a></li>
<li><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Power/Fitness </b></span>-
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jeffsekerak">http://www.youtube.com/user/jeffsekerak</a></li>
</ul>
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Belief in these things are evident in the countless posts, pictures, books, and videos he generates. There is a sweet, genuine aura about Jeff, who has now begun to spread his message internationally as he travels around the world. He takes each of us along for the journey as he selflessly sends daily posts of positivity from where ever he has roamed that day, promoting that we all can be the best that we can be, as strong as we can be, and as super as we can be. His super-human approach to body weight exercises have transformed me into a strong, lean, vegan, machine. Many often marvel at how I can be as slender as I am yet exhibit the strength that I have. Through Jeff's numerous <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/jeffsekerak">videos</a>, I have learned how to workout smart, hard and simple. I am grateful to know this super being with a super humble soul.</div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="font-size: 16pt; font-style: italic;">su-per (soo</b><sup style="font-size: 16pt; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">.</sup><b style="font-size: 16pt; font-style: italic;">per) </b>adjective<i style="font-size: 16pt;"> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="font-size: 16pt;">of the highest degree or power; first-rate; </i></span></span><span style="font-size: 21px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>excellent</i></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>More than just physical.....</b></i></span><br />
<br />
Being super is also more than just physical. It is tapping into your personal source of power to become the best that you can be in all that you do. Innately, we all possess the ability to excel, to utilize our power. What is it for you? What makes you super? The discovery can be just as amazing as the very gift itself. Last evening, I spoke with my aunt. The conversation reminded me that while growing up, she was always my example of superwoman. She was strong, smart, beautiful, creative, sophisticated, independent, and successful. As I watched her from afar, I wanted to be just like her. I wanted to look like her, dress like her, act like her. I wanted to be...her. It took years to realize that as much as I wanted to be, I could not be my aunt. I had to be...me. The realization that a superwoman was lying dormant within me was phenomenal and awakening. Now that I have brought life to my own super being, my aunt, as I spoke with her, told me she thought that I was strong, smart, beautiful, creative, sophisticated, independent, and successful. <br />
<br />
How ironic. The entire time I focused upon her, she focused upon me. We both saw and marveled at the same thing within each other at the same time not realizing that we were looking at ourselves. Are you missing the picture of the truth of your nature? Are you overlooking the super entity that lies within you? I challenge you . It is more than just physical. When you are super, you can be a writer, baker, candlestick maker. It doesn't matter as long as what ever it is, it is that which awakens you to fulfill your purpose. Awaken to the being within. Awaken to your superness, put on your cape, and allow it to flow confidently in the wind.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQZiV6i6RefO1a8vgucLuBJtB1tn7Guasby_ZFkcyAfaavaXe_hF7e7IsXqYJGZcGouYwGzOKixRKo53jr4U6ZmCvr4b2sKtjuYZx33djBnjKENGvWuyevP4Cc3VIwrTjJEOtuLza4KTS/s1600/powerful+mountain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQZiV6i6RefO1a8vgucLuBJtB1tn7Guasby_ZFkcyAfaavaXe_hF7e7IsXqYJGZcGouYwGzOKixRKo53jr4U6ZmCvr4b2sKtjuYZx33djBnjKENGvWuyevP4Cc3VIwrTjJEOtuLza4KTS/s200/powerful+mountain.JPG" width="111" /></a></div>
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Yoga: Tadasana -Mountain Pose </i></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #073763;">Tadasana is often used in grounding. However, this quote says it all:</span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>"Mountain pose is an affirmation. You can conquer anything </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>with</b></i></span><i style="color: #073763;"><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> your natural boldness and resolute strength" </span></b></i><span style="color: #073763;"> ~Terri Guillemets</span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #073763;">Namaste.</span></div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-24046011420546150852012-09-18T11:50:00.002-04:002012-09-18T11:54:04.608-04:00ABC's and 123's<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
September. In this country, it is a month that traditionally marks change - students return to school, seasons transition, and the final quarter begins signifying the end of the year is near.This month also marks a personal change – it is the
anniversary of this blog and my conscious decision to eliminate all
animal-based products from my life. It
has been an extraordinary two years. If
you have followed from inception, you will note the ups and downs happiness,
disappointment, growth, and lack thereof… however through it all, the
consistency of elated forward movement and positive energy through the power of education has carried me and holds me with strong steadfast along this path.<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Easy as 123</i></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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The key to any successful transformation is
simplicity. The less complex you keep
things, the easier it becomes to maintain.
As I reflect on the eve of year three, I take with me and present to you
three simple things that I’ve learned up to this point:</div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b>1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->KISS
yourself every day.</b></i></span> (I know I’ve
said this many times before, but I can not express enough how important it is
to Keep It Short and Simple). If you are transitioning to veganism, whole,
live foods are the ultimate fast food.
Just pick up a piece of fruit or vegetable and go. Keep meal preparation within 5 minutes or
less with 5 ingredients or less. If you
are transitioning in another area, KISSing yourself each day will facilitate
your success.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Never underestimate the importance of daily
movement and exercise. </i></b></span>Movement, as
simple as a brisk walk or as challenging as a two-hour workout, makes such a difference in your overall wellness. Get up, get your blood circulating, oxygenate your system, increase
your brain cells, introduce your body to a little perspiration. The more you exert, the more overall energy and strength you will gain.<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #38761d;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Embrace calm.</span> </b></i></span> Calming down and introducing breath into your
day detoxifies your body and remove stress. Take the time
to p<span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">ray, meditate, chant or do whatever it is you do to</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> rest, restore, renew, and re-nourish the whole self. Express gratitude and humility each day. Calmness changes your demeanor and
your approach to life. In the end, everything will always be alright.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>The ABC’s of it</i></b></span></div>
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As I reflect, I thought I’d have a little fun to measure
how many new things I’ve embarked upon during this journey. The best way to
categorize is to find a place amongst the alphabet for these great
tidbits. Although previously aware
of some of areas listed, I soon discovered there were more things about them
that I did not know as opposed to what I did.
I figured I’d come up a few things, however,
to my surprise, I have actually accumulated a wealth of information. Let me share just few with you, a small fraction, of that which has brought new awareness:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZt9SgszevULNavZnOw-PhOYm12St-ZIb293ZhDwvfFoxhGbO2GHJ_UBiHuzsgiJVE-fs0n8nK-vgVAvOeS9az-N89vy1RH5Hmz9SeCJvIZyISQFXW69H78Fgy3ADc8gHR-Mw-ZSiBB0qc/s1600/bitter+melon4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZt9SgszevULNavZnOw-PhOYm12St-ZIb293ZhDwvfFoxhGbO2GHJ_UBiHuzsgiJVE-fs0n8nK-vgVAvOeS9az-N89vy1RH5Hmz9SeCJvIZyISQFXW69H78Fgy3ADc8gHR-Mw-ZSiBB0qc/s320/bitter+melon4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bitter Melon & Cucumber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="color: #cc0000;">A</b><span style="color: #cc0000;"> – Affirmation (be it), </span><a href="http://jenmcgown.com/" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Awakenings</b></a> <span style="color: #351c75;">(goodwill and balance by Jen McGown)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> , Alkalization</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">(ultimate cellular state; dis-ease can not live here!), </span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Apple</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (yes, one a day does keep the doctor
away. See malic acid below), </span><span style="color: #cc0000;">Avocados</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">(vitamin C, K, folate)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>B</b> – Body Weight Exercizes; Breathe </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(key to life);</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Bananas </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(best fast food ever!- fiber, vitamin c, b6, potassium, mangaese)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">, Beets</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (lowers
chlorestrol), </span><span style="color: #cc0000;">Bittermelon </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(strengthens immune system)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Bok Choy </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(folic acid, vitamin C, antioxidant, potassium) </span><a href="https://www.google.com/search?aq=f&sugexp=chrome,mod=16&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=badassvegan" style="color: #cc0000; font-weight: bold;">BAV</a><span style="color: #351c75;">(it's ok to go bold by John Lewis)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>C</b> – Chia seeds</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (a super –dooper super food);</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> Cucumbers</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (who knew?-too many good things to mention)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">; Coconut water </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(natural electrolyte - perfect to rehydrate or to start your day)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">; Cleanse</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (detox regularly)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>D</b> – Dates </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(medjool - best natural sweetner! and great treat);</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> dry brushing </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(surprising aid to digestion)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>E</b> – Embrace </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(yourself as well as others)</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">, emote, energy, eggplant</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (yes, you can eat it raw)</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYWt-e4KUdKt2Pf8Up4BfPVAP6cqukSYxrbrlMlDJ0iAwzztf_RlCj10gWQ6xFX-CFJEjozGk8Q_uxARLch335A-0dTHW6eV_tedTOrEWSWoZgCbc6PaJNt6aUKU-YGFL-eCQhTJxfqiO/s1600/jicama.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYWt-e4KUdKt2Pf8Up4BfPVAP6cqukSYxrbrlMlDJ0iAwzztf_RlCj10gWQ6xFX-CFJEjozGk8Q_uxARLch335A-0dTHW6eV_tedTOrEWSWoZgCbc6PaJNt6aUKU-YGFL-eCQhTJxfqiO/s320/jicama.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jicama "Sandwich"
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFVe0MSJRuk">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFVe0MSJRuk </a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>F</b> – Fennel<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, serif; font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span>(awesome source of source of iron, calcium, magnesium, folate, fiber, vitamin C; <span style="color: #0b5394;">Focus; Folate </span>(crucial B vitamin essential to cell growth and reproduction) <span style="color: #0b5394;">Food Combining; Fitness </span>(one of the key factors to wellness that provides cohesion)<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>G</b> – Greens (</span>deep greens - perfect to eat raw!)<span style="color: #0b5394;">; Guava; Grapefruit; Guru </span>(become experienced; get help; give help)<span style="color: #0b5394;">; </span><span style="color: #0b5394;">Gratitude</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>H</b> – Happiness & Harmony</span> (key to well being - bring your internal sunshine out by <a href="http://asantegeorge.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>AsanteGeorge</b></span></a>)</div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>I</b> – Indian Cherry</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> </span>(fiber rich, potassium, vitamin C, A) </div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>J</b> – Jackfruit; Jicama</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> </span>(pronounced "hic-ca-ma") sweet root vegetable -fiber, potassium, vitamin C); <span style="color: #0b5394;">Juice Fast</span> (nice way to cleanse detox and jump or re-start)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9cJC9B7L2L6NzV59S8zeHqgTI7xduJotyIvV0qxkSsnMc_VgtqoX6MpNv2nePzS8yM0iFdN7UEl9tWB3JrdM1yv_c-aTk6NS_3-ucF6cH29MjIZWEUXvNhO22oZNr68YSrxH0OUOGZL8/s1600/kale+wrap.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9cJC9B7L2L6NzV59S8zeHqgTI7xduJotyIvV0qxkSsnMc_VgtqoX6MpNv2nePzS8yM0iFdN7UEl9tWB3JrdM1yv_c-aTk6NS_3-ucF6cH29MjIZWEUXvNhO22oZNr68YSrxH0OUOGZL8/s320/kale+wrap.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kale Wrap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>K</b> – Kombucha; KISS; Kale</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">(superfood king; 45% protein; vitamin
A, K, calcium)</span><span style="color: #38761d;">; Kundalini yoga </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(unites the mind, body and soul) </span><a href="http://www.kalavati.org/"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Kalvarti </span></b></a><span style="color: #351c75;">(raw vegan and life coach, Jo Ann Hazelhurst)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>L</b> – Live Food; Lemons</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (secret wonder food-cleanses inside and out)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>M</b> – Metta </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(the state of lovingkindness and good will)</span><span style="color: #38761d;">; Meditation; Malic acid </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(key
ingredient in apples-provides energy and promotes muscle health);</span><span style="color: #38761d;"> Mango</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (mm mm good)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>N</b> – Nectarine; <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/NaturallyHealingInc/"><span style="color: #38761d;">Naturally Healing</span></a> </b></span><span style="color: #351c75;">(Pele Chen-healing through holistic consumption</span><span style="color: #38761d;">; Newsletter </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(the next step I'll share)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b>O</b> – Om</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (reminder that universe is within)</span><span style="color: #38761d;">; Oranges </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(super fast food #2)</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMLeapClHIj-S-sztKhUh1zKQ3_O5zdpL3FPOXykIbx9D4LFZTqUH2c30HmN-5fkDYp_OtrJhD_ih9Ixxad0SjGTybdCaiCq58HkB2U5AlaKmsIFserVO9bwa4kqOUiF1uFOGc03CSyqsi/s1600/sunflower+seed+cheese.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMLeapClHIj-S-sztKhUh1zKQ3_O5zdpL3FPOXykIbx9D4LFZTqUH2c30HmN-5fkDYp_OtrJhD_ih9Ixxad0SjGTybdCaiCq58HkB2U5AlaKmsIFserVO9bwa4kqOUiF1uFOGc03CSyqsi/s320/sunflower+seed+cheese.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quinoa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>P</b> – Presence; <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan.com/e-books--resources.html"><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Pulp Madness</span></b></a></span> (growth, my first e-book)</div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>Q</b> – Quinoa</span> (pronounced "kee-wah"- a seed not a grain; considered a complete protein- contains all essential amino acids, iron, calcium)<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>R</b> – Radish </span>(copper, manganese, folate, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin C) <span style="color: #a64d79;">Raw veganism; Rest;<b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/rawanddelicious/"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Raw & Delicious Lifestyles</span></a></b></span> (raw vegan education Toni Allen)</div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">S – Sabbe satta suku hontu </span>(pali chant - May all beings be well)<span style="color: #a64d79;">; Sprouting; Starfruit </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(vitamin C, fiber, copper)</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">; Sunflower
seeds </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(too many to name -here's a few: copper, magnesium, selenium, vitamin E)</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">; Sun baking; </span><a href="http://sexyrawfoodandfitness.com/"><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Sexy Raw Vegan</span></b></a> <span style="color: #351c75;">(my coach Drew McCall Burke, who first believed)</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">; <a href="http://extrememinimalistfitness.com/"><b><span style="color: #a64d79;">The Super-Fit Vegan</span></b></a> </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(body weight expert, Jeff Sekerak)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>T</b> – Tumeric </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(powerful root spice-great for anti-inflammation)</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">; Transformation; Transition</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8r4buUZoTDB8me3N4k8mPyU_YEGSE7gCPapriwd6e4OjSbrSXWC9jkgf-PeQseCcLuQB-C2A_naqsjwhnS3TidjdJNknsFQfl0wVkyxdN5rwqEDj2IUiPI3-MJZPSdKqqvrtBQPfnMA1p/s1600/zucchini+sliders.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8r4buUZoTDB8me3N4k8mPyU_YEGSE7gCPapriwd6e4OjSbrSXWC9jkgf-PeQseCcLuQB-C2A_naqsjwhnS3TidjdJNknsFQfl0wVkyxdN5rwqEDj2IUiPI3-MJZPSdKqqvrtBQPfnMA1p/s320/zucchini+sliders.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zucchini Sliders</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>U</b> – Uncooking; Ujjayi breathing </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(cleansing breathe of fire)</span><span style="color: #b45f06;">; </span><a href="http://ubraw.com/"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">UBRaw</span></b></a> <span style="color: #351c75;">(raw chefs Ronnie & Minh Skurow)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>V</b> – Validation</span></div>
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>W</b> – Wellness; whole food; water</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (brain food; re-energizes; drink it for life)</span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>X</b> – Xigua </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(Chinese translation for watermelon; full of vitamin A,C)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Y</b> – <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan.com/"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Yoga Girl goes Vegan</span></b></a> </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(tangible dreams come true)</span><span style="color: #b45f06;">, Yams</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (yes, you can eat them raw);</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"> Yoga</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> (my base, the trigger that started it all)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Z</b> – Zen </span><span style="color: #351c75;">(learning to be present in the moment), </span><span style="color: #b45f06;">Zucchini</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">(protein packed, vitamin C, K, B6, Folate, Magnesium, fiber) </span> </div>
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Whew! That's quite a bit. For as much as I listed; there is much that could not fit. The information obtained in this short span of time demonstrates that you can increase your knowledge if you obtain, apply, and adapt it into your daily life. Take a moment to reflect upon your own journey. Marvel at how the mass of what you have learned has become integrated into your new way of doing things. In the beginning, the goal was to execute change for 21 days - the magic number to create a new habit. Wow! In no time, it's now a little over 21 months. The same shall be true for you. You'll realize that all it takes is a little education to go a long way. As you think about your personal season of change, remember that continuous education, repetition, and building upon newly established foundations will guide your steps. The amazing part is that each day you learn a little more and it will just seem to become easier and easier. As easy as ABC's and 123;s.</div>
Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-37953516188835773762012-08-31T14:05:00.000-04:002012-09-01T04:21:40.138-04:00Possessing Power<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Points, objectives, tasks, initiatives, projects, destinations, alterations, changes, transitions, reformations, transformation all equal the same... goals. Each of these represent things we would like to achieve. Sometimes just observing it becomes overwhelming and we loose the ability to see successful implementation. Other times, we over think our approach - the "how" or method by which we will achieve that which we desire. It cripples us and stops us from accomplishment because we simply do not realize that we each possess the power to make it happen.<br />
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In prior posts, <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2010/09/chain-reaction.html">Chain Reaction</a> and <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2011/09/affirmation.html">Affirmation</a>, I have referenced the quote by Robert Schuler, "What would you do if you <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">knew</b> </span>you could not fail? It is a very strong statement that provokes deep thought. Let's change it a bit. Ponder this:: What would you do if you knew <b><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">you possess the power</span></i></b> to do anything you set your intentions to do? WOW! A jolt of strength and energy should be coursing through your bloodstream right now, awakening your mind.</div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>The Power of ONE</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;">"<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The Power of ONE to change a few, </span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">the Power of a few to change many,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">the Power of many to change Nations,</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">always begins with....the Power of ONE." </span></i></div>
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~ <a href="http://sexyrawfoodandfitness.com/sexyrawveganbio/">Drew McCall Burke</a> </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpV3_HCmuKAUh_bKoXVptEenBtrZcNKbUxFZKbVBxEYbeEP7KOgK3Ew-CGFag3duDziAXMpkFmNY072_smiL86QqhvkAsNlCU6wFv78Ap7to-HsT7QluOyNFWHzY2Hy7SiyKzyJQwzCdXs/s1600/africa+engo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpV3_HCmuKAUh_bKoXVptEenBtrZcNKbUxFZKbVBxEYbeEP7KOgK3Ew-CGFag3duDziAXMpkFmNY072_smiL86QqhvkAsNlCU6wFv78Ap7to-HsT7QluOyNFWHzY2Hy7SiyKzyJQwzCdXs/s320/africa+engo.JPG" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suzanne Africa Engo</td></tr>
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Last week, I was fortunate to experience this first hand. I watched <a href="http://www.facebook.com/suzanne.africa">Suzanne "Africa" Engo's</a> documentary <a href="http://act.mtv.com/iloveafrica/">"I Love Africa"</a>* which chronicles her journey to raise Aids Awareness. I met Africa through social media without any prior knowledge of her "power". I immediately found her to be a bright, shining light, humorous and an inspirational raw vegan chef. What I did not know is that this wonderful human being decided to raise awareness for this devastating dis-ease by dedicating her life to veganism, incorporating fitness, and then move with her power possession, to change the world...and she did it. She initially started off on a run from New York to Chicago. The success and notoriety propelled her to then run across the world, from Milan, Italy to Cameroon, Africa on behalf of her cause. Prior to becoming a raw vegan, she weighed 250lbs. She used her power to transform herself, loosing 110lbs. Africa then took this power, sharing and spreading it through her infectious smile and positive energy to share with one, many and thus, nations on behalf of her cause. Her power has become international. She demonstrates that all you need is you to start using your power. </div>
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"If you build it, they will come" ~Field of Dreams ©1989 </div>
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Africa's added another initiative to her "plate", encouraging Americans to eat healthy and vegan in the <a href="http://www.actionagainstobesity.com/NationalActionAgainstObesity/National%20Action%20Against%20Obesity.html">National Fight Against Obesity</a>. As a raw vegan chef, she loves to keep it simple. Here is my take on one of her dishes:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuiD1CJy_m0Wxp9rbPFl82r8T7QsoFdgxr9cjGqEhUhIEv9XX5MJ7AcC0E2NLCrHTbrdnhjGxq-xjmhSKf-jroW5hV72rBATNHBqq6tsbDXVEdVpKqYgHzArhAk_hEUPWj_Uj4k__rs_R/s1600/sweet+potato+walnut.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEuiD1CJy_m0Wxp9rbPFl82r8T7QsoFdgxr9cjGqEhUhIEv9XX5MJ7AcC0E2NLCrHTbrdnhjGxq-xjmhSKf-jroW5hV72rBATNHBqq6tsbDXVEdVpKqYgHzArhAk_hEUPWj_Uj4k__rs_R/s320/sweet+potato+walnut.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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1 sweet potato</div>
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handful of walnuts</div>
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1 tsp cold pressed coconut oil</div>
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Shred or with a noodle tool, make sweet potato noodles, sprinkle nuts and drizzle with coconut oil. Simple, nutritious, and tasty</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">*for those in the United States, the documentary via this link: <a href="http://act.mtv.com/iloveafrica/">I Love Africa</a>, is avail for free viewing until the end of the year at which time it will be produced into a DVD for international distribution. May her story inspire you.</span></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Power to say NO</span></b></i></div>
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Sometimes, you don't need power to start something new or to transform the world Sometimes, you need the complete opposite - just a little power to change an element in your surroundings for your well being. Sometimes, you need to possess the power to say "no". Many of us are people pleasers. I am guilty. For many years, I worried about providing the right answer, the right solution for acceptance or judgment. So, I always said "yes" to people, situations, and things that I should not have. It wore on me down both professionally and personally. Everyone else was happy because I took on their projects and goals. I made it happen for them. Yet, I was not happy. I had not taken the time to please myself. I had not said "yes" to me. It was not until I learned how not to be co-dependent, that I learned how to say "no". Sometimes, if we remember to say "no", we will remember to say "yes" to those elements we need for our well being: air, sun, water, freedom, tranquility, positive energy, and light, each of which empower us to be the best we can be. Begin to say "no" to situations and things that drain and wear you down - that steal your power. Regain possession, realize there is a difference between giving and doing with selfless humility and giving away that which fuels you. Initially, practice saying "no". It's okay - the world will still be standing after you say it. Look into the mirror to see how you look saying no. As you say it, observe how your jaw bones move. "Feel" it physically. After you say it, smile and remember that in order to achieve your goals, sometimes you have to say no in order to say "yes" to make things happen, and that you must first realize that not only do you possess the power to do so, but that YOU are the only ONE who can, and the rest of the world will follow.</div>
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Namaste. </div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Yoga: Ardha Chandrasana Half Moon Pose</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4FRwIjdI_ZmVAB87tarZw7pfTsoO0mM8MbjxZ9gZOVrgZl1fMGKc7NGX2Y9TqRB6HHTADivJqFuocJYX30bp88Lae-oW-UFPExQq1PJRPuCDBUWJ6pueY_gVXzzFYN12l_PdufT9bS3-/s1600/half+moon+pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4FRwIjdI_ZmVAB87tarZw7pfTsoO0mM8MbjxZ9gZOVrgZl1fMGKc7NGX2Y9TqRB6HHTADivJqFuocJYX30bp88Lae-oW-UFPExQq1PJRPuCDBUWJ6pueY_gVXzzFYN12l_PdufT9bS3-/s320/half+moon+pose.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #073763;">Highlights the power of one. It is an alignment or standing pose in that improves balance, flexibility and anchors grounding of legs and ankles. The possession of this one pose, is powerful enough to strengthen the core of the entire body.</span></div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-73132847760160037882012-08-22T14:48:00.000-04:002012-08-22T15:13:08.121-04:00Environment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have come to the realization that your environment truly effects your wellness. If what surrounds you is desolate, it will lend to feelings of destitution. If you alter the picture to create a personal space of light, you will brighten that which initially began as darkness. This simple action infuses energy into any place devoid of positive aura and empowers you to reverse or reject negative vibes that threaten your success. Changing environment can be as complex as moving to another part of the world, seeking other employment, loosing or gaining relationships, or as simple as painting your bedroom a calming color, planting flowers outside your window, or smiling at one who frowns. <br />
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I found that this also applies to your workplace. What does your work environment look like? Is it conducive to your well being? Does it allow you to be the best you can be? There are many things in our specific jobs we can not change: who we work with, the times we work, the tools we need. However, there always is something that you can do to make your environment work for you, to embrace your productivity and to foster your creativity whether you paste a flower inside of your hardhat, post a picture of your favorite oasis on your dashboard, or wear a smiley face pin on your lapel, there is always a way to remind yourself to just "be" in your moment within your environment, doing the best that you can with positive flow.</div>
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I work from home at a desk. My "office" is painted in a warm tone which reminds me of cinnamon spice. I love the taste and aroma of cinnamon. It makes me"feel" warm. I have pictures of goals and family members, a meditation stool, and full, uncovered windows which welcome open views of trees and the sky. I created my space to be calming to allow me to be "me". Sometimes however, we forget these things when we set about our tasks. As like most people, when I am working, can not always look around my room to "see". Sometimes I need tangibility right in front of me. So, I remind myself, each day. I used my desk to create a mini-environment within my larger one:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmerVOZ4SdMsU50ppHtQyPor5kP9QpxQ-GMdsJNZt98utDl2hyPpbRij8LdBkjmtcgIM7FBHXhxVI1stCIMgUBI-tWmWd_Fbv7Yimw-TnVYUx0xgcN6YiPgKzzKhZnSrRU9J6y2IrLT9E3/s1600/desk1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmerVOZ4SdMsU50ppHtQyPor5kP9QpxQ-GMdsJNZt98utDl2hyPpbRij8LdBkjmtcgIM7FBHXhxVI1stCIMgUBI-tWmWd_Fbv7Yimw-TnVYUx0xgcN6YiPgKzzKhZnSrRU9J6y2IrLT9E3/s400/desk1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My desk is strategically set with subliminal messages to massage my spirit and thoughts to remind me to be calm and free as I work. It is divided into three areas: inspiration, relaxation, and meditation. I believe that you can not have one without the other. One can not meditate if one can not relax and one can not inspire if one can not become grounded through meditation. The combination of these three elements lead to creativity. </div>
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<span style="color: #351c75;">The first portion of my desk is</span> <i><b><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Inspiration.</span></b></i> <span style="color: #351c75;"> It reminds me to:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3kV_TzFYgho1rUmaAYMFH9uhwVC_JSuWxkTbtmDGb1qX7JqRsHLBm8IskXScEYPbTO0xt1F6L_DCnAdVAxmIDoheh7tdcD8jSh6eoMCCjeeDMs-q7oyE4frWiBJYXNUbGtdR18Zuvd9f/s1600/desk2a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3kV_TzFYgho1rUmaAYMFH9uhwVC_JSuWxkTbtmDGb1qX7JqRsHLBm8IskXScEYPbTO0xt1F6L_DCnAdVAxmIDoheh7tdcD8jSh6eoMCCjeeDMs-q7oyE4frWiBJYXNUbGtdR18Zuvd9f/s200/desk2a.JPG" width="91" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>always have </b></span></i> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3vJiWTmybFV8ScO_ztgMh0Ey5htaD_UVRamxJvSaM0nYi91t2Dj006H4OaDzjV5KtULOFiCbVnReogH3zxRQSDxkUFCHC07iL2juGEiDBhpoLJV0J-p53HY-VTj5xiFhbPK816P6DIFq/s1600/desk5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3vJiWTmybFV8ScO_ztgMh0Ey5htaD_UVRamxJvSaM0nYi91t2Dj006H4OaDzjV5KtULOFiCbVnReogH3zxRQSDxkUFCHC07iL2juGEiDBhpoLJV0J-p53HY-VTj5xiFhbPK816P6DIFq/s200/desk5.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">time for love maintain balance</span></i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiwbTD_8oiz0a6gCCfHNcLcgvqcNOUTE1rgmUDtfYErtdHvglU4Fk1u2h1pNJteNs1NZByQH1O8lZom8d3GZxZjMZ8HMj4q-yUQyn3am3Ah3iWsD1JUuxJeBzDAyRw5KxB0vrKBnhwKlS/s1600/desk6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiwbTD_8oiz0a6gCCfHNcLcgvqcNOUTE1rgmUDtfYErtdHvglU4Fk1u2h1pNJteNs1NZByQH1O8lZom8d3GZxZjMZ8HMj4q-yUQyn3am3Ah3iWsD1JUuxJeBzDAyRw5KxB0vrKBnhwKlS/s200/desk6.JPG" width="82" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>grow new ideas</i></b></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYYbmCxDWLW_I1YC5GD_j8o3UCLsOXWj8HtB_xWX5LhIOuElu9xxuNIhE-hcXQTPE3YeUa0dHAErC3b6N_azftsRu4Wsx-BTbG-e1kkZce4E7_a-u7WaVM9a23UMvhruLX7CQByItm2N3/s1600/desk7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYYbmCxDWLW_I1YC5GD_j8o3UCLsOXWj8HtB_xWX5LhIOuElu9xxuNIhE-hcXQTPE3YeUa0dHAErC3b6N_azftsRu4Wsx-BTbG-e1kkZce4E7_a-u7WaVM9a23UMvhruLX7CQByItm2N3/s200/desk7.JPG" width="183" /></a><span style="color: #351c75;"> <i><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">remember I possess</span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></b></i></span><i style="color: #351c75;"><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> the resources I need</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;">When I reach a blockage in the flow of my work, I always look to inspiration for empowerment. With exhalation, I am ready to forge forward to complete the tasks at hand.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">The middle section of my desk is</span><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b> Relaxation.</b></i></span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaD9Gv_ygKn5emFG34DW8gtHNm92tTJJb33Jmjw1K7LYNbCbjGkvfLongxN-OoaUb0i5GajCandseCgC6-rrPthGoFpR3DWTPZyaDGCg6y1WvcVNCj6Sqik7ceU4O8VKv1-MsbhXwBajQo/s1600/desk4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaD9Gv_ygKn5emFG34DW8gtHNm92tTJJb33Jmjw1K7LYNbCbjGkvfLongxN-OoaUb0i5GajCandseCgC6-rrPthGoFpR3DWTPZyaDGCg6y1WvcVNCj6Sqik7ceU4O8VKv1-MsbhXwBajQo/s320/desk4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #0b5394;">When stressed, I take out a little rake and make waves in the sand. This zen based activity is very soothing. This relaxation exercise is intentionally placed in direct correlation above the keyboard. It reminds me that nothing is more important that a relaxed spirit for you will not be productive nor rational if you are not able to approach your situation with a calm demeanor.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000;">The anchor of my desk is</span> <span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Meditation.</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;">It is the grounding basis for which I can be the best I can be. It restores positive thought, removes doubt, and increases flow for creativity. If I have an arduous task before me, I light a candle, take a whiff of crystal rocks that have been soaked in citrus and flower scented oils, and pick up my mala beads to either recite a cleansing prayer or recite a mantra for restoration, healing, and power. I often meditate before I write as I wish my words to flow with truth, clear conscious and without malice in my heart. Sometimes, I meditate after I work, in gratitude for productivity and for the gift of the skills with which I work.</span></div>
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When I close my door at the end of my day, I am grateful for this space. It is a representation of the environment in which I can find solace, peace, prosperity, happiness, one in which I can give, share, extend, provide, one in which I study, learn, and grow. </div>
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It doesn't matter where or what your environment "is", whether it is home, work, with whom you interact or otherwise. The question is - does it encourage your progression? Does your environment encourage you to "be" the best you can be, foster your beliefs, one that can bring a smile to your face, and a warmth to your being? If it does not do this, then think about incorporating a few simple things to evolve your environment to that which will bring light, incorporates things you love, create positivity, enhance your wellness and affirm your success. </div>
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Namaste.</div>
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Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-91835149371166777792012-07-30T12:57:00.000-04:002012-07-30T12:57:08.789-04:00Guru...In Progress<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Originally, this post was entitled, "Redemption and Resurrection". It was going to describe the healing process that began after the pain of my last post. It was going to:<br />
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reveal regurgitation, regent rescue, restful respite, resilient renewal, replenished revival, regained rejuvenation, revenue realization, respectful reflection, resplendent responsibility, resurgence. </div>
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Alas, this post was not to be for as these words swirled around in my head, I struggled with "how" to hasten healing hurt, harbor hope and hone happiness. Despite receiving honest refreshment from friends I still could not formulate the writing. As I neared 30 days with thoughts held captive, floating around in my head, another friend, gave me the most wonderful gift of all which helped me realize and remove my blockage. She gave me these simple words:<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"It is so easy to get caught up in raw gurus or individuals who may lead many in the raw industry because for the most part they are just incredible. But when they fail, we get so very disappointed and even disillusioned with the movement. Follow no one but yourself as you embark this awesome journey but glean from, listen to and enjoy all. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Learn for yourself, be your own guru and enlighten your whole experience."</span></i></div>
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Eureka! It was just the spark to re-ignite my flow. All month, I had received yet not realized how the gifts that carried me through were linked and that each that help awaken the guru budding within me:<br />
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<a href="http://jenmcgown.com/">Jen</a> - sight </div>
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<a href="http://ubraw.com/">Ronnie</a> - humility and selflessness </div>
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<a href="http://www.plantpoweredliving.com/2011/08/12/my-story-jason-velick/">Jason</a> - support</div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/rawanddelicious/">Toni</a> - mission and affirmation </div>
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Equipped with these new gifts, I moved to research, revive, and re-establish who and what I am to discover my own inner guru. It is my responsibility to remain human and humble; to learn and to embrace. While it is important to learn from teachers, leaders, idols etc, it is our responsibility to continuously build upon our own foundations to evolve, to establish and respect the guru that lies within us. Education is key. We all possess the gift of knowledge and the ability to learn; the gift to teach and the ability to share; the gift of realization of as- is and the ability to expand beyond with the gift of of intuition and wisdom. It is important to remain to embrace humility throughout the process for we will never know all or be all. That is not the objective of the guru. A true guru does not ask to be such. The meaning of the word guru is teacher, power, being, presence, counselor, and adviser. It is a position of pure love.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Becoming a Guru</span></b></i><br />
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How does one become such? The answer came to me as I thought about Stacey True. Stacey has started a social media page, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/ConfessionsofAFatVegan">Confessions of A Fat Vegan</a> She is just beginning. She is, as she puts it, "on a mission to be completely plant-based and fit". There is much she admits she does not know. She admits she does not know what she does not know but she is willing to learn. She is willing to publicly display her transformation and addresses questions before being asked - as she states "Yes, vegans are fat too" . I love her candor and observing as she learns, shares, and evolves. It is beautiful to witness, for example, the honesty and proud posting of a midnight snack of strawberries instead of previous choices. I don't know if Stacey realizes it yet, but I see she is well on her way. She is becoming a guru. With grace and brutal honesty, she is already teaching that what she has learned in six short weeks.<br />
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This past month, I also reflected upon my newly forged friendship with Dina Stewart. Last year, she decided to follow her passion and started a year long dedication to practicing yoga every day which led to her recent certification as a yoga instructor. When she set out, she did not design herself to be guru, yet that is exactly what she is becoming. She has started a blog, <a href="http://loveyourlifeyoga.wordpress.com/2012/07/12/hello-world/">Love Your Life Yoga</a> in which as she describes that "Yoga helped me to save my life, my body and my spirit." The awakening goddess in her is now reciprocating that which was gifted, "I am teaching yoga to share this gift with as many people as I possibly can.We pray, laugh, cry and become real on our mats." It is soothing to feel the love, passion, and desire to give.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzlYXawVGIuJfIVnYInlrDY_rohpaNeG4jw2DMmB7BHBOszRlTGtza6OnmArgBkvmcvbExNozf_zsZpjjvOw1J3VUCgt8MzE-y-2B2VfW0GsgL91JGwnd5AQQQEoVv9H5Ta0q3CRHxLEv/s1600/free+your+spirit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzlYXawVGIuJfIVnYInlrDY_rohpaNeG4jw2DMmB7BHBOszRlTGtza6OnmArgBkvmcvbExNozf_zsZpjjvOw1J3VUCgt8MzE-y-2B2VfW0GsgL91JGwnd5AQQQEoVv9H5Ta0q3CRHxLEv/s320/free+your+spirit.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture from Dina's page..guru in progress.</td></tr>
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<i><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Finding your inner guru</span></b></i><br />
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I applaud these individuals and their willingness to share, yet remain present in their moments. It inspires me to rouse the goddess within. How about you? What motivates the awakening of your inner guru? Are you still leaning or holding on to your teachers? Are you ready to let go just a little? A great teacher does not provide for one, they provide for many. Let them go. Allow them to use their gifts to help the next student coming. It is now your turn. Time to grow. Time to become the example your teacher set forth for you. You now know what you know. Use it, expand it, share it, move it, multiply it. It is okay not to be a guru on Day 1, it's okay to be afraid. It's okay to ease into it and feel the strength it provides. Embrace it, do it, be it. Your greatness awaits.<br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Urhva Dhanurasana - Wheel Pose</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">Urhva Dhanurasana or Chakra Asana is the wheel pose. It is a form of a backbend which revitalizes the nervous system, improves breathing, and provides an energy boost. It also opens the 4th chakra , Anahata - the heart center. As you work and begin to release your inner guru, remember to do so with an open heart for all actions must come from your </span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;">heart with lovingkindness. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">It is only then that you will be able to embrace, emit, and evolve. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763;">Sat nam.</span></div>
</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-84968792602367402712012-06-20T16:39:00.000-04:002012-06-20T16:39:43.764-04:00Light and Sight<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My husband was born with the gift of sight. His grandmother always said he was born with "a veil over his face". It is believed that if this occurs during birth, once removed, the ability to "see" is gifted upon the recipient. The veil is called a "caul". It is a thin membrane of tissue that covers an infant's face and is removed immediately after birth<i>, </i>In many cultures it is considered good luck and an indication that the child is destined for greatness. I can not attest to the gifts of the caul, however, I can say for certain that my husband can definitely "see". He has an uncanny ability to look at people or situations and impart a brutal honesty. Over the years, I have both cherished and cursed his gift. He has saved me from situations I had no clue I was in and he has told me things I reluctantly had to accept although I did not want to hear them. I am grateful for his gift and for the humility he exhibits as he acts always from a position of love. He has one of the largest hearts of anyone I know as he passionately and selflessly gives to any, many times to strangers. His words are often received as wisdom. I realize he does this so easily because he can "see". I have learned over the years to take heed when he is cautious of someone, that in time, the light of truth tends to prove him correct. Never abusive of his sight, he uses it to shed a light in areas once dark bringing a truth where none previously exists.<br />
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I do not possess this gift. I perceive, as one who hears and feels. I am a recipient of those who see. It is important for those of us who feel to become quiet in order to hear what the seer is saying to understand what they see and to allow them to shed a light in dark areas. When I can not see clearly, I often seek the advise of my husband or others gifted with sight to help me see. Recently, this very task was presented as I became involved in a situation in which I had to become quiet and seek sight.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"The quieter you become, </span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">the more you will be able to hear"</span></b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">~</span> Rumi</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Becoming Quiet</b></i></span><br />
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I have rapidly learned that human kind in the vegan world is no different than those outside it. I had a naivete that somehow, those who do not consume animals had a softened sensitivity of all beings. While I have met many who are sweet, sensitive souls, I have discovered that some of the intricacies of interaction that are not pleasant also rear ugly heads in the vegan euphoric world. Unfortunately, I have discovered that many are not as they present themselves to be. I do not purport to be or do anything more than what I am. Why people say one thing publicly and secretly do another perplexes me and causes pain. Why I believed that vegans would not do so is, again, being naive. I always want to assume that people have good hearts and intentions. After realizing that all are not as I think they should be, it became time to remove my judgment, to stand still, to become quiet, to hear, and to allow the light of the seer to shine.<br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The Light of Truth</span></i></b><br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"whatever happens in the dark shall always be </span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #f1c232; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">revealed in the light"</span></b></i></div>
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My mother and grandmother would always tell me this statement as a warning to be just in all my actions, even when no one is looking, for one does not want to be caught in the light revealed unjust, to take heed for no matter how long, how deep, or how much time you are in the dark, the light always, inevitably, will come. This proverb comes from the bible scripture "For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest, neither is anything hid that will not be known and come to light" (Luke 8:17) I guess I have lived not trusting the cloak of darkness therefore, ever cautious of any actions that would consume me with negativity as I walked in the light. So as I sat with the hurt and pain that all are not as they appear to be, I prayed and meditated in a dark quietness to listen and to hear and to be prepared to see as the light of truth began to shine bright. <br />
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I experienced a revelation - I realized hurt and experienced pain because I was looking and seeing through eyes void of objectivity. A true seer looks without judgment, they just "see". My mistake is that I had not thought about the variables that I did not see, that many people show you only what they want you to see leaving you to fill in the rest with your opinion, judgment and thoughts of how you think they are. For the most part, we don't care. Our society loves to build people up and then tear them down. It's only when we become more intimate with them as friends, lovers, partners, or fans that we attach emotion to our views and become hurt when vision does not match actuality. For the majority of us who were not born with a caul or the ability to perceive with sight, we must remember - when the light of truth is revealed, instead of being angry or hurt (as I was) we need to begin to look at ourselves. What variables existed all along lurking in the dark that we did not,could not, or "chose" not to see? We, just as those we feel disappointed in, will emerge from darkness to address challenges not by anyone else's accord, but within our own light. As light shines upon you, look at your own truths and make adjustment. It is not up to us to do anything but to stand in the truth of our own light. When the light of your truth shines upon the darkness of someone exposing something you did not wish to see, do not be upset, be grateful for the lesson. Do not linger upon it, for it is a waste to time. Be quiet, listen and hear. Allow the light to reveal, to help you see who and what you are dealing with. Embrace new sight, let it heal, let it help you move in a different direction - one that you never saw coming.<br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Chakra cleanse... Third Eye-Openng</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">The dictionary defines the expression "eye-opening" as: "<i>causing one to suddenly learn or understand what was not previously known" </i>. In my yogic mind, this expression comes from the opening of the third, all seeing, eye which is located above the brow in between the eyes. When it is blocked or unbalanced, one can not "see". It then must be "opened" to remove barriers which block sight. The third eye can become blocked from emotional situations, when being judgmental, and after suffering grief or pain. If it remains unbalanced, it is said that one can become manipulative. Physically, a blocked third eye chakra can lead to headaches, ear, nose, throat problems and even difficulty with normal vision.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">According to <a href="http://www.chakra-centers-heal.com/3rdeye_balancing.html">Chakra Balancing</a>, when the third eye, represented by the color </span><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b>purple</b></i></span><span style="color: #073763;">, is open or balanced, it provides the gift of intuition or "second sight," and allows one to see beyond physical, material things. A balanced third eye facilitates congruence between thoughts, words and deeds... allowing whatever is occurring in the dark to parallel in truth with that which occurs in the light.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">A simple, introductory way to open the third eye is to sit in lotus, hands in guyan mudra, eyes closed but looking up at the third eye located between the brows in the middle of the forehead, and recite OM or AUM which manifests the spirit of God.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">Namaste.</span><br />
<br /></div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-28973957810327852512012-05-31T11:31:00.000-04:002012-05-31T11:42:26.522-04:00Simplicity<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As I have walked this journey, many have often expressed how difficult it is to transition to a raw vegan lifestyle and marvel at how I seem to have adapted with ease. My response is honest, it is not difficult. It is about making simple choices. Right now, I am 99% raw. I occasionally have eaten a prepared hummus while dining out or consumed a few nuts that were not raw. I do not concern myself with this overall percentage as each day, I am on target. This because I start daily with a focused simplicity to eat whole foods. Throughout these postings, I have previously referenced keeping it simple and short, sweet, or satisfying. (KISS). "Kissing" yourself if the best approach to not only raw vegan transition, but to anything you face in life. Of course, there will always be fancy, decadent, complex dishes that mimic cooked or animal based meals which requires some form of talent to create, however, just a piece of fruit or whole vegetable will suffice. Worrying about converting exquisite, complex works of art with way too many ingredients can lead to failure as one can easily begin to walk the path of procrastination while attempting to obtain everything they think they "need" to create mini masterpieces that will just be eaten in less time than it took to construct.
Save the fancy for every now and then. Treat it no differently than consumption of a special dinner during an<br />
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evening out. Realistically, how many of us, raw or not, eat fancy gourmet meals every day? That being said, let's get back to kissing. Make an honest effort to keep things easy. Focus on just one simplicity and expand as you master it, one at a time. As simple as life seems to be, we've all somehow managed to bog and burden ourselves with materialistic, unnecessary objects and artificial deadlines. It is important we learn to un-complicate our lives. Apply the Kiss to every aspect of your life - keeping each component simple will relieve your stresses. Kissing your life is loving yourself. A peace-filled, zen based life will calm your soul and quiet your being. I believe we were intended for simplicity. Yes, I enjoy some technology as much as the next person, however, everything should be placed properly in its place and not take precedence over the simplistic way of life.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Fast Food for Real</span></b></i></div>
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In our modern world, fast is the way, steadily increasing its pace. We want everything quick, we want it fast and we want it convenient. I find it perplexing that the very people who obsess with the fast life do not consider fresh whole fruit and vegetables "fast food". How is it not? Live food is the same as the "value menu" cholesterol</div>
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increasing, artery clogging, fat filled burgers and fries when it comes to convenience: no prep time, easy to pick up and take on the go, relatively cheap and you can feed your entire family for less than $10. The crucial difference is that whole, live, raw foods are actually GOOD for you, free of fats, sugars, increasing instead of decreasing energy. When eating real fast food, you don't have to worry about triggers, dis-ease, and illness. The first stumbling block when converting to veganism is always trying to figure out what to eat. My suggestion is simple: stop worrying. Nothing complex to determine. Pick up some real fast food - an apple, bananas, celery, cucumbers, dark green leafy plants, etc. </div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Life Uncomplicated</span></b></i></div>
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As you simplify when, how, and why you eat, begin to apply these techniques to the other aspects of your life. It doesn't make you different, it just makes you uncomplicated.</div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>"Instead o</i></b></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>f thinking outside of the box, get rid of the box" </i></span></b><i>~<span style="font-size: x-small;">Deepak Chopra</span></i></span></span></div>
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Uncomplicate your life, remove your boxes, get off the grid and make your life as easy as you can. Reduce your stress and any object that you associate with it. For example, people find it strange that I do not own a cell phone. It was the first thing I got rid of when I began to simplify my life. I understand the practicality of a cell phone, however for me, it represented the stress of always being on call. I admit, when I first let it go, I felt I had made a mistake, yet I felt compelled to stick with it. Quickly, as I re-educated and re-programmed my needs versus my wants, I discovered I no longer needed it. I haven't had one for nine years now and enjoy the freedom of not being attached to it. Except for the younger generation, most of us grew up without a portable phone and life was grand. This simple exercise led me to begin to align my thought processes in tune with needs and wants. The stress and complications come with forcing wants into needs. Mastering the ability to distinguish between the two is empowering.</div>
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>The Power of Simplicity</b></i></span></div>
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John Lewis, the <a href="http://badassvegan.com/">Bad Ass Vegan</a>, first introduced me to the concept of active simplicity during the <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2011/07/ready-for-rawgust.html">Rawgust</a> raw food celebration in the summer of 2011. He created a mental challenge to eat simple. It spoke to me.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appreciate simple life....</td></tr>
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It fell in sync with my walk. It became my mantra. This past month, another friend, raw vegan super athlete, Jeff Sekerak, launched a new initiative, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/PowerOfSimplicity">Power of Simplicity</a> in which he highlights how empowering it is to live, eat and be simple. When you live simply, you gain a power. It allows you to "see" for as you stand present in your moment, you are able to observe all around you and make conscious decisions with wisdom instead of in haste or in stress which most often leads to more stress and waste of valuable time. A simple life is a powerful life. It gives you appreciation of the gifts provided to us through nature - grass, trees, water, air, love, life. Use this power to make choices to transition from complication into simplistic hedonism. Enjoy the taste and smells of sweet succulent fruit, the burst of energy from pure nutrients, the feel of natural clothing, the quiet from unplugging the television, the sound of crickets at night, birds in the morning, the satisfaction water provides, the tranquility of release. Taking one step toward simplicity will envelope and cleanse every other aspect of your life. Give yourself a kiss...think about what you can do right at this moment to simplify your life, it can start with eating an apple and instead of a bag of chips. </div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">"The journey of a thousand miles begin with a single step" </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">~Lao Tzu</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Pranayama - Breathing Techniques</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763;">The simple act of breathing is one of the most crucial components in any yogic practice. Breath is the key to life. Without it, we cease to exist. Breathing is one of the most simplistic things we can do effectively. Pranayama literally means control of lifeforce. Yogic breathing techniques balance the mind and the body. Control of breath oxygenates, creating greater levels of consciousness as well as reduces stress, improves mental clarity and aids digestion. </span></div>
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</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-26144818698352660312012-05-17T11:49:00.000-04:002012-05-17T12:05:20.255-04:00Essence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Essence, by definition is the basic, real, invariable inward nature, substance or constitution of any "thing". In elementary terms, it means, what are you made of? The more I learn about living clean, the more I pondered the word "essence" and its meaning which has led to an increased desire to continue learning. When I started this journey, my intention all along has been to live with a clean mind, body and soul. I now am at the place where I ponder what is my essence, what am I made of? This has become a walk not just about eating. <br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>All the Way</i></b></span><br />
It is now about going all the way. It is about discovering who and what you are and finding balance within. I have found true balance through yoga, meditation, and veganism. It swirls within me:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLQQx3ueufgH_AR7NS4nGThFRwqC_Bg9WBeocsNxNN-AZuUUtcFtAQ4OzrYXARbitjlbJDld_16UUZvxqQ5EmTv2GY_1p5AlutrWUbyGyUDLYc4fMciyhO-WQdWiBfz7OTqZNm_q-QVXE/s1600/Essence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLQQx3ueufgH_AR7NS4nGThFRwqC_Bg9WBeocsNxNN-AZuUUtcFtAQ4OzrYXARbitjlbJDld_16UUZvxqQ5EmTv2GY_1p5AlutrWUbyGyUDLYc4fMciyhO-WQdWiBfz7OTqZNm_q-QVXE/s320/Essence.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Essence and formula for success. What is yours?<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>Yoga</b>.........</span></i><span style="color: #741b47;"><b><i>body</i></b></span> & <i><b><span style="color: #990000;">mind</span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Meditation</b><span style="font-style: italic;">........</span><span style="color: #990000;"><b><i>mind </i></b></span>& <i><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">soul</span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Veganism</b>...................</span></i><i><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">soul</span></b></i> &<b> <i style="color: #741b47;">body</i></b></span><br />
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I have found my essence which feeds my mind and soul and ultimately my body. It is my formula for success. It is my grounding and a happy cycle that overlaps each continuously as I work steadily towards going all the way. Looking at the word essence again, I found it also has a second meaning: a substance obtained from a plant. Ah-ha! That is the answer I was seeking. In order to go all the way, the logical next step is to begin looking, from a plant-based perspective, not only at what put in my body, but also about what I put on it and what it is surrounded by. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Research</i></b></span><br />
After my ah-ha moment, I began researching natural, plant-based alternatives for everyday products such as toothpaste, deordorant, soaps, detergents, and remedies. Within two weeks of this decision, an opportunity to conduct a product review for a natural, raw vegan company flowed across my path. I found this to be no accident. I had previously received solicitation to look a products that did not align with my objectives and I had respectfully turned each down. This time was different. The facilitator did not contact me directly. She made a simple, humble request available to anyone who wished to participate freely. This time, with no prior knowledge of her products, I felt an urging to try it out. As I began to research the company she represented, everything began to align. Once I spoke with her, <a href="mailto:laceyswartz@verizon.net">Lacey Swartz</a>, I found a sincerity in her desire to provide natural products for her family which led her to become a representative for the company Miessence<br />
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I discovered that the company Miessence (pronounced "my-essence") proudly touts itself as the "world's first certified 100% organic company with products ranging from skin, hair, body, nutritional, and cosmetic products." It's logo is the "heart-shaped leaf of the bodhi tree, symbolizing wisdom, unity, prosperity and longevity". This information felt good. I felt comfortable to delve a little further.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Trying it Out</span></b></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixVF78YLiGxucSNtAh2QEs0Ys-1tW5VEnYWlrwhQyyok6pgOy4ylTc2qT6Gos_HUX8PcHZ9GCiubxFIItX8AeyjwWwHg6-T2X3YW6_PufdzIylQzJwW0aJRNIcEKvG4W8XPZU2AbtCPZN/s1600/Miessence-Deep+Gree.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixVF78YLiGxucSNtAh2QEs0Ys-1tW5VEnYWlrwhQyyok6pgOy4ylTc2qT6Gos_HUX8PcHZ9GCiubxFIItX8AeyjwWwHg6-T2X3YW6_PufdzIylQzJwW0aJRNIcEKvG4W8XPZU2AbtCPZN/s200/Miessence-Deep+Gree.JPG" width="135" /></a></div>
Of the choices, I immediately decided try out the <a href="http://kvorganics.mionegroup.com/en/product/15121">Deep Green Alkalising Superfood</a> because it is a 100% raw, vegan, certified organic and an alkalizing product. Alkalization of the body fights dis-ease and wards off illness from a cellular level. This product turned out to be my favorite of the two I tried. I am sure my love of dark green leafy vegetables biased this opinion. The product is as its name suggests - it is a deep rich green powder comprised of 12 ingredients including blue-green algae (spirulina), spinach, kale, and parsley. The powder can be used by the teaspoon to make super juice or smoothie as well as a "seasoning" to boost dishes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GWRtCS9tUlchPmbVxCZfiqvMRBcdr-bTInj9tBjqY9llRveN-AuVHjTZTDghlMJyM2mJhsig2McCp-OMpvnhhjKd4m7FvqdSBT335aBVAWHMK8tpvwhhyphenhyphenrwYVLmjl5ZpBF69evBdiNBV/s1600/Deep+Green+Kale+Drink.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_GWRtCS9tUlchPmbVxCZfiqvMRBcdr-bTInj9tBjqY9llRveN-AuVHjTZTDghlMJyM2mJhsig2McCp-OMpvnhhjKd4m7FvqdSBT335aBVAWHMK8tpvwhhyphenhyphenrwYVLmjl5ZpBF69evBdiNBV/s200/Deep+Green+Kale+Drink.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
I first used it with a kale juice, adding one teaspoon. The powder thickened the juice yet its earthy taste softened the strong flavor of the kale. I found it to be tasty. Lacey provided a cleansing recipe in which you juice 1 lemon and add 3 teaspoons of Deep Green to 4 cups (or 1 liter) of water three times per day for three days. <br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>Pros:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Ideal for those who do not eat deep green leafy vegetables</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Algae is a source of B12 and iron</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Has sources of Vitamin E, K, and beta-carotene</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Product is versatile, can be used in many ways </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqVYS4X2vB_shaLuqhgbjNr7CH-VOuWZU7l6LVDstiOY01ioFIBnfo5BDL8tdqJhPNwanP6aGt4JxWBTOHXOaoOru5g_3O8umUMce5ImVdCLHFr653btc9bnEgXq0OXq1tZWZdKcZk8Q4/s1600/Deep+Green+Carrot+Avocado.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSqVYS4X2vB_shaLuqhgbjNr7CH-VOuWZU7l6LVDstiOY01ioFIBnfo5BDL8tdqJhPNwanP6aGt4JxWBTOHXOaoOru5g_3O8umUMce5ImVdCLHFr653btc9bnEgXq0OXq1tZWZdKcZk8Q4/s200/Deep+Green+Carrot+Avocado.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>Cons:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Contains grasses including oat and wheat</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Price is a little costly, however, see it as an investment</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* Be aware that this is a supplement, not meal replacement</span><br />
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This aside, I recommend the product. For those interested in the grass aspect, the company states that they use <i>"only grass juice powders, not the pulverized grass powders that are completely useless for humans!"</i> Just making a quick juice is ideal for those who find it difficult to eat at least 5-7 servings of vegetables per day on a regular basis. I also used the product to make a salad dressing (1 teaspoon Deep Green, 1 pureed zucchini and 1 pureed cucumber) and a tasty dish consisting of 1 cup shredded carrots or pulp, 1 diced avocado.<br />
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The other product I sampled was the <a href="http://kvorganics.mionegroup.com/en/product/15113">Berry Radical Antioxidant Superfood</a>. Initially, I was a little skeptical after I immediately noticed it contained raw cacao. While true raw cacao<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwjFLQOWeX8vO_Kcx6ibr7oFz6F_71Lvn1oVANOowgtpoxp1hmpP2-aShtO1bUnEVJkNQPc4G3N06j7iyT387PratYOEeyGPexfHUv11NeZxHbHZJ1JW_FSkVCsBYwJEZCYPj0fRBgyMg/s1600/Berry+Radical+Choc+Mousse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwjFLQOWeX8vO_Kcx6ibr7oFz6F_71Lvn1oVANOowgtpoxp1hmpP2-aShtO1bUnEVJkNQPc4G3N06j7iyT387PratYOEeyGPexfHUv11NeZxHbHZJ1JW_FSkVCsBYwJEZCYPj0fRBgyMg/s200/Berry+Radical+Choc+Mousse.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div>
can be consumed on a raw vegan diet, generally is not found in its true state. Most companies which claim naturalness usually offer a processed version. Lacey checked with the Miessence creator to confirm the true 100% raw vegan nature of the cacao used in this product. So, with that in mind, I tried it on faith of her word. I made a chocolate mousse and ice cream. It was delicious! <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b>Mousse Ice Cream </b> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>3 plantains 6 bananas </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>2 bananas 2 teaspoons Berry Radical</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>3 tsp Berry Radicals 1/4 cup pureed strawberries</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><u>For each:</u> Freeze bananas and plaintains overnight. In a food processor or blender, whip bananas and plantains. Mix in additional ingredients according to recipe. <u>For Ice Cream:</u> serve immediately; <u>For Mousse: </u> prior to serving, let sit 20 - 30 minutes allowing it to thicken to "mousse" consistency cording to recipe. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i>Pros:</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* includes superfoods such as pomegranate, acai, goji, and blueberries</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* antioxidants neutralize free radicals which damage cells</span><br />
<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Cons:</b></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* raw cacao</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">* coffee fruit (fruit of coffee plant which in raw form has potential to go rancid)</span><br />
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The cons are more of a personal taste and objective as these are things I do not normally consume. That aside, I found the overall taste of the product to be more "chocolate" than "berry" which makes it, in my opinion, more feasible to use or blend into dessert recipes or smoothies.<br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Next Steps</span></b></i><br />
This exercise has rewardingly reinforced my path. I am excited to discover who I am by trying new things. I have found that there are products, companies, and organizations which strive to feel, see, and just "are" the way I "am". I started with internal consumption. These next steps, however, will facilitate going all the way with external products as well. In time, and through research, I will continue to meet more and more <a href="mailto:laceyswartz@verizon.net">Laceys</a>* of the world. As I evolve, I work grounded with confidence, knowing what I'm about is in tune, with my essence. For this, I am grateful. Namaste.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">* If you have questions or are interested in more information regarding Miessence products, please contact: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"> Lacey Swartz</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"> Independent Representative, Miessence</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"> email: <a href="mailto:laceyswartz@verizon.net">laceyswartz@verizon.net</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">store: <a href="http://www.kvorganics.miessence.com/">kvorganics.miessence.com</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">blog: <a href="http://www.kvorganics.com/">www.kvorganics.com</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga - Muladhara, Root Chakra</b></i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_ovKOMnx2WGm4C78v4Id-FUurnamrrv0A5D2LPd4065U23MrU0rkOffAiuA6pVqjQwYc8wAvMcT1bZX6N6813tpCbak9qiKSIEho-cdOD2tVt4t7oIqVc9sA5QFkqnoIy47U1CQ7G4lV/s1600/head+to+knee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_ovKOMnx2WGm4C78v4Id-FUurnamrrv0A5D2LPd4065U23MrU0rkOffAiuA6pVqjQwYc8wAvMcT1bZX6N6813tpCbak9qiKSIEho-cdOD2tVt4t7oIqVc9sA5QFkqnoIy47U1CQ7G4lV/s1600/head+to+knee.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janu Sirsasana (head to knee) pose<br />
one of many to open the Mulahara</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #073763;">The Muladhara is the base, first, or root of the seven chakras recognized in the western world. This chakra sits at the base of the spine and is the root of the physical body. It houses personal energy. According to <a href="http://www.yoganidhi.com/">Yoganidhi.com</a>,</span><span style="color: #073763;"> the muladhara "</span><span style="color: #073763;">bestows breath and mind control, knowledge of the past, present and future." Practicing poses which open the Muladhara will stimulate alignment of body, mind and soul facilitating </span><span style="color: #073763;">grounding, stability, and security which provides the ability to go all the way. It represents awakening and essence. </span><br />
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</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-87055514320171909812012-04-30T12:14:00.000-04:002012-05-01T09:41:25.553-04:00Losing Control<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #555555;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have lost control. This is a new feeling for me for I was always an "in control person". I was always the one to be on top of affairs, run things, coordinate, orchestrate, conduct, facilitate, manage. This proved very successful during my corporate years as I was rewarded and sought out because I could "make things happen" and "get things done". I ran every aspect of my life and those in it with diligence. I easily managed multi-million dollar budgets and several hundred employees in the same manner I orchestrated family trips and play dates. I was always the "go to girl" for corporate projects, functions, baby showers, or weddings. Everything always went off successfully. I thought fast on my feet and always had a back up plan or alternative to ensure a final successful objective. I recall how proud I was at the "astonishment" of other parents when I gave them a typed Agenda of Events for my son's 5 year birthday party. It never dawned on me that their reaction may not have been in accolade of my "accomplishment". I did not notice because my focus was centered on controlling the situation. It was important that I even dictated or at least influenced how others even thought of me and what I was doing. I was always intent on controlling how I thought I appeared, not realizing that the tight, overbearing grip does not align nor appeal with a peaceful, zen-filled life. It took a simple act of waste disposal to send me spiraling out of control with a blissful gratitude</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><i><b><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Throwing it all away</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last week, my area was scheduled for a long awaited disposal of yard waste and debris. After a long winter, it was great to clean up loose leaves, dead shrubs, and grass clippings. As we are in the process of cutting down a dead tree, we had accumulated quite a bit of branches and twigs for disposal. Since the pick up is not a regularly scheduled event, I had written it on the calendar a month in advance to ensure we would not miss pick up. Since my town has strict rules about when and what you can put out on the curb, to place the waste out the night before was not feasible. It was important to put things out first thing in the morning. All day prior to pick up, I literally calculated how and why I would bound the branch bundles and determined where each would lay. I went to bed ready to get up to get things out bright and early. When I awoke, I immediately prepared to go outside to start my task. To my utter surprise, for the first time in years, I had slept longer than I wished to. I immediately began to panic, feeling the control slip from my grasp. My house was quiet. My family had already left for the day. I had missed their departure, something I had not ever done. When I opened my front door ready to get back on track, lo and behold, to my utter surprise, the waste was prepared and placed at the curb, ready for pick up. My family had taken care of it. No, they did not calculate how, why or where to do it; nor did they "consult" with me, they just did it. I went back in and sat down. This simple act became an earth shattering revelation for me. The objective was accomplished and I had nothing to do with it. I had no control over it. I had lost control and all was still standing. With no control, I had just learned how to rely and how to depend.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #555555;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">When I started practicing yoga, as I first began my vegan transition, I never hesitated to accept the assistance of others. I naturally sought out others for help in areas I had no knowledge. Perhaps the humility of the practice and the quieting of my mind allowed my heart become open to dependence. In this instance, I came to the realization that y</span></span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">ou can not control that which you do not know and that is it okay not to know. I discovered a new found freedom in accepting the guidance and reliance of others, discovering that as I became more agile in poses and more knowledgeable in raw vegan consumption, I find I need not be in control, that things will eventually fall into place exactly where and as it should at the precise moment it is meant to occur. Being present in the moment and acceptance of self "as-is" was wonderful in my yogic vegan life however it took the trash episode to break the grip of mental control I still maintained on everything outside of the vegan, yogic circle. I am finally beginning to loosen up.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i><b>Loosening Up</b></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">In my past, the worst in the world that could ever happen would be to lose control. The epiphany of last week has shown that loosing control is not a terrible thing at all. It is something we all can do on a regular basis. Loosen up and let it go. For in reality, you never were in control of others anyway. You can't control other people or other things. There is an arrogance somewhere hidden within the thought of being "controlling" that facilitates such thought. Let it go. Imagine an empty glass on an empty table. Allow the glass to fill up slowly with water. See the water fill the glass to the brim and feel the water spill over the sides onto table and run in all directions off of the edge. Imagine yourself as the water. Imagine you filling up glass to the brim as you slowly begin to spill out in all directions, all over the place with no control...dispersed. Instead of focusing on self, become so full of yourself that you have had enough, that you now must spill out into the unknown to spread and share that which you used to try to keep contained in the one glass on one table. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYvJmG3B-axfQ3fHThDrvbxub4IYjB_KYmHhYXgqbmAmA3KGNYWaFW8IRqQN7NH4GHxNM6dcF9Lfeh03gFLNXh3wanXnCMovMufPgy6H26CE-4bCOlqPAWA5JAsNXo14rZr_2GZ5m3t3S/s1600/let+go.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYvJmG3B-axfQ3fHThDrvbxub4IYjB_KYmHhYXgqbmAmA3KGNYWaFW8IRqQN7NH4GHxNM6dcF9Lfeh03gFLNXh3wanXnCMovMufPgy6H26CE-4bCOlqPAWA5JAsNXo14rZr_2GZ5m3t3S/s320/let+go.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">As you lose grip of that which you held too tightly, let it go, as well as what others may think of you, of expectation, of objective if each is something that continues to keep you bound and wound around artificially created stresses and desires. </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">If your hands are in, on, and around everything, it is time. </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;"> Time to l</span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">earn to look to see your true self. </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">Realize that a typed agenda for a "party" of 5-year olds is absurd. Realize that attempting to manipulate your view upon others in an the attempt to influence their view of you is selfish and inconsiderate. </span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">Stop, r</span><span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;">eflect, look through your trash for your "ah-ha" moment. Realize that sometimes, it is okay to be out of control, to throw it all away, to accept dependence. Understand t</span></span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">hat you don't have to know or do everything, to touch everyone, or to always be in control.</span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> Accept that t</span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">hrough meditation and breath, you can let your mind drift to free your spirit, releasing the grasps and tensions that kept you up on your toes, holding up shoulders, eyebrows, hair, heart rates, agendas and schedules</span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">. Know that when you return to your physical state, you will see just as I have, that the earth is still rotating on its axis, that objectives were met, that others helped and that everything is fine, just as it should be.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><b><i><span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Yoga - Partner Poses</span></i></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuCGIM_5cn_otjjphuhzupbgrWG_p7BtgcQBWMyQZyM3SjcXXZ3cSI14_asjWcI8D0EoJk8LjNELSpNT0-oKkShlYzQf3AnnAGg5lCdLJcXLcrsyrwI57va0O3mBCghh4Q5gjQFpn8ynew/s1600/partner+poses.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuCGIM_5cn_otjjphuhzupbgrWG_p7BtgcQBWMyQZyM3SjcXXZ3cSI14_asjWcI8D0EoJk8LjNELSpNT0-oKkShlYzQf3AnnAGg5lCdLJcXLcrsyrwI57va0O3mBCghh4Q5gjQFpn8ynew/s320/partner+poses.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When practicing yoga with a partner, one practices dependence as the full benefit of the posture can not be realized without release of personal control. Instead of focusing on "self", the focus is to be reliable to and to rely upon "other". Partner poses provide deeper stretches, connectivity, challenge, and increased strength. Partner practice facilitates awareness of letting go of control, letting go of self, and encourages reliance, bonding, sharing, and awareness. </span></span></div>
</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-55004748126141268092012-03-24T12:47:00.000-04:002012-03-24T13:39:29.134-04:00Unmasking<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzG46VFvq8QZ-yAha_Xc3JD6UIsROUML4V68GeJye0PqZpSwAzaEmJGX-IotW9q-yF2JB3Erxb16l6D6echiA1567ZCSpDMTeHJe8DnKE7548cRaxCSCDAiPS1oPYIqlIr8asiTB69ud6N/s1600/unmasking.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzG46VFvq8QZ-yAha_Xc3JD6UIsROUML4V68GeJye0PqZpSwAzaEmJGX-IotW9q-yF2JB3Erxb16l6D6echiA1567ZCSpDMTeHJe8DnKE7548cRaxCSCDAiPS1oPYIqlIr8asiTB69ud6N/s320/unmasking.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Last week I posed for my first professional photo shoot. In anticipation of the event, I purchased a make-up foundation for my face. It is a cosmetic that conceals imperfection and evens complexion tone. It is artificial. I was quite familiar with this application as I used to wear it daily. It is called foundation as it is the base upon which additional makeup is added. The night before my shoot, I put on a "full face" makeup with all of the cosmetics usually applied for "the camera". As a former modeling student, I was taught how to "properly" apply the products on my face. When I looked in the mirror at the "finished look", I no longer saw myself. Instead, I saw the mask I had created. It was an epiphany. It was not me. I had changed. The makeup mask no longer represented a look of beauty. For the past two years, I have been walking this personal journey of truth seeking and could not find any truth in the caricature that stared back at me. Although I immediately wanted to remove it, I decided to leave it on for a little while thinking I needed re-acclimate myself with it only to discover that the longer I left it on, the more unnatural it became. This mock face no longer defined my look....I had changed my definition of beauty. It was time to remove the mask. It seemed to take longer to remove than it was to put on. As soon as I washed my face, I felt liberated, refreshed, and "clean". At that point, I decided that I would shoot the photo session au naturale, in my truth with a clean scrubbed face. This exercise led me to ponder what else in my life have I covered with old thoughts and old methods. What else needed unmasking?<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Fears and Facades</span></b></i><br />
When we embark into new territory, we sometimes fall back into old ways out of fear, creating a fabricated reinforcement, leading us to forget acknowledgment of the new ways that made us stronger and wiser. We must remember that we can use our new found strength to foster the power to project our truth, to remove our masks. Many of us hide behind the mask of our responsibilities, job titles, wealth or excuses creating a facade of competent falsehood to avoid facing that which we should face. Other times, if we find challenge with our self-esteem or our freedoms, we conjure ourselves into alter-egos, super beings and larger than life entities to create a mask of security. The main reason we create facades is fear of acceptance or fear of rejection. This fear, whether acceptance or rejection, is one and the same. Either way, by focusing on the unknown, we cultivate this fear. Many of us live our entire lives never once thinking about removing our mask. It makes a hard and difficult path for therein lies the problem. <br />
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<i><b><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The Problem with Masks</span></b></i><br />
Masks in and of themselves aren't a bad thing - they can be sometimes be whimsical, wild, adventurous, sexy, playful, fun, exciting. The problem is that masks are meant to be worn temporarily. When forced to wear them every day, it becomes a distortion of true selves. It is a hard and sad occasion living untrue each day. When worn all the time, we fool ourselves that the unnatural image is more beautiful than our own. How vulnerable one must feel when they remove their masks in private for regardless of what mask you wear, you have to take it off sometime. You can't sleep in it, you can't bathe in it, you can't breathe in it, you can't heal in it. You can't live artificial all of the time. If you imagine a freedom without your mask, do you know that everything will be okay? Life is not meant to be lived dependent upon the acceptance or rejection of others. Light and truth will attract truth and light. Realize that:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">One single light still shines bright </span></b></i>~Zhu Shuzhen</div><br />
<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Who Are You?</b></i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBRSZYmjws0q6r4rMdojkb1ZYi3dUM22TaRdByknQW1DmX3ggYlFsXnZ5R5OEpTz90aubZdsKdg0T0AD5wxA4_6D91yOvVIYucIC-cEZlJbZlFSp5Z1CASJ5Rw7aLzAXfHBsCmvudgRVM/s1600/I+am+Me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGBRSZYmjws0q6r4rMdojkb1ZYi3dUM22TaRdByknQW1DmX3ggYlFsXnZ5R5OEpTz90aubZdsKdg0T0AD5wxA4_6D91yOvVIYucIC-cEZlJbZlFSp5Z1CASJ5Rw7aLzAXfHBsCmvudgRVM/s320/I+am+Me.JPG" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unmasked - I am Me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For me, the practice of Yoga and the transition to raw, whole, live foods helped me remove my masks. Yes, "masks" plural. I, like many others wore more than one mask. When you first begin this process, you discover or "learn" who you really are. It is an amazing and very enlightening feeling. One-by-one I removed my masks and became settled and more comfortable walking the steps of my "facade-less" path. For the first time in my life, I am unmasked... I "see" myself. I have clear skin, clear mind, and clear focus. I accept myself and my truths. I no longer seek acceptance or fear rejection of others. I do not wear foundation to mask my clear skin or who I am. If I wear a little kohl on my eyes or gloss on my lips, it is a fun, temporary mask that I take off for days, or even weeks, at a time. I am happy to wear my face just as it was given to me.. <i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">unmasked</span></b></i>. I now know who I am... I am "me". <b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>"Who"</i></span></b> are you?<br />
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<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Unmask Yourself</b></i></span><br />
Take off whatever mask(s) you have been hiding behind whether you wear it everyday or just once in a while. Face your fears. You will be surprised. For every rejection, there will be an acceptance, most often from where you least expect it. Your path to revealing your true self doesn't have to be solitary. If you are afraid, look in the mirror and admit to yourself that you are; this act is the first step to breaking down the wall you've been hiding behind. Take the guidance or hand of the one light that shines bright, that attracts and accepts your light. Confess your truth, ask for mask removal assistance. Break old ways and methods. Wash off the fake foundations. Rejoice as it dissipates. Feel and grow in your empowerment. Embrace the beauty of your true, exposed, naked, self - become the real "you".</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-15831945846905457182012-03-05T13:27:00.000-05:002012-03-05T13:27:33.810-05:00Mindful Meditation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: justify;">This month has started with an infusion of positive energy. I am fortunate to have two friends, unbeknownst to each other, establish this month as an opportunity to dedicate time to practice mindfulness through meditation. Prior to this, I started each day with a moment of meditation, however, I now realize that I may not have put my "mind" into it, not feeling the full effect of that which I had hoped to achieve. I am grateful to these two people who have brought clarity and grounding to my practice.</div><div><br />
</div><div><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>The Company You Keep</b></i></span></div><div><br />
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2_8zpMQOyJmxjzoCg5SbJ9CcuAGVHwYgiyK3KQPMGAJhXO1hfLTvtgbLhpxxbHVjLq-dGDRVqjEpVZs4irX71itaoEuMOL8Ta-OFxxp0eSBp5oTyfq99haKm912044_KhR3zIooDkHzw/s1600/circles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2_8zpMQOyJmxjzoCg5SbJ9CcuAGVHwYgiyK3KQPMGAJhXO1hfLTvtgbLhpxxbHVjLq-dGDRVqjEpVZs4irX71itaoEuMOL8Ta-OFxxp0eSBp5oTyfq99haKm912044_KhR3zIooDkHzw/s1600/circles.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all have a "circle of friends". Sometimes it is just an all-inclusive sphere in which we lump every person we interact with. Other times, we have categories of circles, where we place different people in respect to their "place" in our lives. We don't mean to do so, however, we all tend to mentally sort the people we come in contact with in the same manner we sort and and store any other piece of data or information. It is sometimes not so good to do this as we may inadvertently cause pain to someone through exclusion. Other times, it is critical to do so for someone may wish to cause us harm, bring negative energy, or ill-will. In each instance, it is our interaction with each of these individuals which influence our actions and "who" we are. It the becomes important to reflect upon the company we keep as each circle overlaps and aligns, they shape the nature of our lives. </div><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>March Meditation</i></b></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">I had have the providential opportunity to have in my company, two beings who were in two separate circles now congruent. This month my friend, yogi Jen McGown, infectious smile, strong hug, and peaceful earthling, introduced <a href="http://oneyogaphilly.com/classes/21daymeditation/">"21 Minutes for 21 Days"</a> which is just as the title describes. For twenty one days during the month of March, Jen will lead a meditation program to guide participants through "a sustainable way to incorporate mediation into your busy lifestyle". Jen is a teacher, not by trade, but by natural gift. In this video, she uses this gift to teach us about our brain, the physiological changes during meditation and how our we benefit when we are mindful in our meditative practice: </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">S</span><span style="text-align: left;">imultaneously, another wonderful earthling, my friend, vegan athlete John Lewis, strong, compassionate, inspirational, positive-energy, and motivator, launched a group </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/255224721224009/" style="text-align: left;">"Meditation in March"</a><span style="text-align: left;"> in which to establish the practice of meditating just five minutes per day for the month of March. John also teaches. He has written several documents which motivate, yet instruct on how to prepare yourself and how to quiet your mind. In this video, he introduces his Meditation in March initiative:</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br />
</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xY9-Hf5OUuw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe>I </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Completing Circles</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I don't know if John or Jen know each other. What I do know is that the blessing of the interaction of their circles through the mutual connection of my acquaintance has sent the message to me that we are all linked. It through this link that we grow stronger, both mentally and physically and that we do so when we are in the company of friends. I have benefited from solitary meditation as it is something you do personally within, however, the overwhelming physical connection when you meditate knowing that others in your circle are doing the same has changed my view and "way" I meditate. I am more cognizant of the others in my circle during meditation as if I "feel" them. I am experiencing a deeper connection as I delve deeper into my practice. This month, thus far, I have begun to be more "mindful" as I conscientiously "think" about the practice and set an intention before I begin, something I had not done previously. I am discovering a sensation of loosing track of time as I meditate and experience more clarity when I arise from it. It is a peaceful feeling of "wholeness", as my circle is complete.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Give yourself an infusion of positive energy. Set an intention to be grateful for your circles. Mindfully look for overlaps and rejoice in the empowerment and growth they provide you. Experience the benefit of going deeper to realize completeness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Namaste.</div></div></div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-44861265377786871862012-02-29T20:58:00.002-05:002012-03-01T10:07:46.032-05:00Leaping<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_urRaXAk_7VVrtO1OsbP8ZprrYv_tkRTcxw08dl6ZSm_ei2pH0VcvssYTRx4hl7pD-cBkpxXG-kJimLMJ3TwcN7X7UfRafaZLTTYAc7bOxfqLowm78j5rOdgMZG_3xRfSYuy9vZBHGTKi/s1600/feb+29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_urRaXAk_7VVrtO1OsbP8ZprrYv_tkRTcxw08dl6ZSm_ei2pH0VcvssYTRx4hl7pD-cBkpxXG-kJimLMJ3TwcN7X7UfRafaZLTTYAc7bOxfqLowm78j5rOdgMZG_3xRfSYuy9vZBHGTKi/s200/feb+29.JPG" width="200" /></a>Today is February 29th. It is a leap year. As we all know it comes once every four years. It is reason enough for many to do something they have never done before, to break with tradition. The purpose of leap year is to adjust our perception of time in tune with nature. It was meant to help farmers plant crops appropriately. In modern history, leap year has been associated with doing something unconventional, for example, "Sadie Hawkins Day" in which women propose marriage to men instead of the other way around. While the idea of doing something different on a day that only comes around once every four years, sounds interesting, the concept is something we should adapt to our lives daily.<br />
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<span style="color: #20124d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Carpe Diem - Seize the Day!</b></i></span><br />
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Every day can be Feb 29th. Use each day to adjust, to adapt, to become in balance with nature. Don't wait for a specific time or a reason to seize the day. Carpe diem baby - take a daily leap! Each day can be an opportunity to do something jubilant and unconventional. Get up, be silly, have some fun. Smile, laugh, be tickled for absolutely no reason at all. Eat a treat that makes you feel good that is also good for you:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2zpLnEnfaXobGUwXG6dyZ0MYU4oWFpkihQ3CfDWdiqpojxN1HWFhe87E_kB8Oz2rlEk9IAd8zBiZ7Hh9GWUWZvq78VaiwyqmTWPqm1DAk2gw6RMOXGoJof53Yk9NAJ6lNOvbx6W2ygxX/s1600/strawbery+ice+cream.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY2zpLnEnfaXobGUwXG6dyZ0MYU4oWFpkihQ3CfDWdiqpojxN1HWFhe87E_kB8Oz2rlEk9IAd8zBiZ7Hh9GWUWZvq78VaiwyqmTWPqm1DAk2gw6RMOXGoJof53Yk9NAJ6lNOvbx6W2ygxX/s200/strawbery+ice+cream.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZKsXubM_BXsczxXLvNxmBh4lJzeKWyIWuJY1smxImCMGszz1BaKTjIEOODvciFOeO-0FgDroPC8i8gGymZI6icudJDaHaatPijn_b6lSESyWOQaQOtFhhacKOOS1fgOsgx2Vpc1XufVq/s1600/IMG_3679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"></span></b></i></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Raw Vegan Strawberry "Ice Cream"</b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">4 frozen bananas or 2 frozen plantains</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">1 cup frozen strawberries</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chop and puree strawberries in a blender or food processor. Set aside. Next, chop and puree the bananas/plantains in the same manner until thick </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> and smooth. Add strawberries. Blend well. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> Enjoy with a smile on your face.</span></div><br />
As you can see, taking a daily leap doesn't have to be a complex task:<br />
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Wear silly socks, a whimsical tie or your favorite cartoon character t-shirt under your business suit. Remember you have it on in the middle of a meeting and mentally tickle yourself with a smile at the thought.</li>
<li>Try skipping down the block or through the park every now and then. When was the last time you did that? Double your fun, bring a friend.</li>
<li>Sing along with your favorite song out loud at the top of your lungs.</li>
<li>Play a few of the games you played as a child.</li>
</ul><div><br />
</div><div>After you've had some fun, smile in gratitude for being able to remember how to experience innocent, personal amusement. Be grateful for the courage to have taken a bold, high, strong leap, knowing that after you've experienced silliness, you will still safely be the same, competent <u>(fill in the blank job description, duty, or responsibility)</u> that you always were, just a little happier. </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfuMs7dCzlCUQWXbRR_6-Zo1HIuYPbPFJD4KwuheAEr-vCO0oixiqSh9lJlAl8X-gZeLGDHdliAspAyCE5kcLdM3fjM50oHSg7Yryjpx9jjeAx7TALZS1yec_pyInCllhi2m3OFxW6jq6/s1600/frog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfuMs7dCzlCUQWXbRR_6-Zo1HIuYPbPFJD4KwuheAEr-vCO0oixiqSh9lJlAl8X-gZeLGDHdliAspAyCE5kcLdM3fjM50oHSg7Yryjpx9jjeAx7TALZS1yec_pyInCllhi2m3OFxW6jq6/s200/frog.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><span style="color: #0c343d; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Mandukasana - Frog Pose</b></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #0c343d;">Although there are more than one way to practice Mandukasana, each version helps tone the thigh muscles, opening the hip and abdominal regions, assisting the digestion process. The frog pose strengthens the legs, providing full flexibility and the ability to....leap.</span><br />
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</div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-58566340925415036392012-02-24T12:54:00.001-05:002012-03-01T10:07:15.129-05:00Starting...Again<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"How do you start over?" </span></b></i>This question was presented after my last post regarding <a href="http://yogagirlgoesvegan2.blogspot.com/2012/01/power-of-will.html">willpower</a>. "Do not start over", I replied, "Start again".<br />
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You see, there is a difference. You can never really start over. When you initiate any "thing", you do so with the knowledge you have acquired up to that point. You make choices and decisions based upon it. When you set out to re-initiate a task, you will do so with the history of your previous attempts in an effort to either recreate or avoid it depending on your perception of the results.<br />
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Starting over fosters failure, a missed opportunity, dream deferred, an objective not reached. It is a negative reinforcement which focuses on the possibility of falling once more as it establishes a cycle of disappointment and let down. If you failed initially, you will do so again. This occurs when you think the same thoughts, using the same tools in the same manner toward the same goal. Starting again produces a different outcome. It is a positive approach as it acknowledges previous setback. When you start again, you move along a path you may have traveled previously with knowledge of prior obstacles and the ability to make adjustment for them. Even if you once again do not arrive where you wish to be, you still arrive that much closer. In this instance, you will not face a brick wall, you instead face new possibility with additional data. You will add this new information to the foundation you've already established.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again"</span></b></i><span style="font-size: x-small;">~Thomas H. Palmer,1847</span></span></div><br />
New found knowledge obtained through starting again allows you to correct mistakes and calculate a new formula for success. As I continue to learn how to live a low-fat raw vegan lifestyle, I find the need to restart "how" and what I eat. Things I first thought suitable to consume are not so and have led me off of the path as they trigger cravings of food I need not partake or creates a void of those I should. Here is a list of a few things I used at the beginning of this walk thinking it was "safe" and healthy only to discover myself "back at start" after realizing that these things do not serve wellness nor beneficial consumption:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What I used to eat and why I no longer eat them</span></b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zcljB3EnMJAcfBPvCyME1E0Cby8TyO52_l5bV-EfYMp7Tgys6Pt-EBKkgGwdV3Ys60ZPR1rnRBsS1hyphenhyphenMfmOZJnbXhRpMShinCjd5zBo7QBIV0k5h-NQKSTwhmnBDZg7RL-wWqWYVbai3/s1600/bad+things+thought+good.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4zcljB3EnMJAcfBPvCyME1E0Cby8TyO52_l5bV-EfYMp7Tgys6Pt-EBKkgGwdV3Ys60ZPR1rnRBsS1hyphenhyphenMfmOZJnbXhRpMShinCjd5zBo7QBIV0k5h-NQKSTwhmnBDZg7RL-wWqWYVbai3/s200/bad+things+thought+good.JPG" width="194" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;">apple cider vinegar</span></b> is made from fermented apples. All vinegar contain a diluted acetic acid which is poisonous in its natural form. Vinegar is not good for the kidneys, thyroid glands and produces mucous within the body.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">olive oil</span> </b>simple, Oil = fat. A waste of calories. There is no need to add fat to your meals. The total daily fat intake needed per day should not exceed 10% according to Dr Graham of the 80/10/10 Diet. You can have a serving of nuts or seeds to obtain this objective naturally.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">liquid amino acids</span></b> contains a naturally forming high salt content that occurs during processing and glutamic acid which is the same chemical in MSG and is processed with hydrochloric acid in a procedure called hydrolization to separate and isolate the aminos. I've learned that you can get the required aminos (protein) from eating a balanced whole fruit and vegetable diet.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>agave nectar</b> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> concentrated fructose (yes, even those that tout they are "natural or raw"). Because of its low glycemic index many think it is "healthy". It is not. It is simply, </span><i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">processed sugar </i><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">not much different than a tablespoon of refined white sugar.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #741b47; font-size: large;">soy</span></b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> too many to tell. This link sums it all up </span><a href="http://www.foodrenegade.com/dangers-of-soy/" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">http://www.foodrenegade.com/dangers-of-soy/</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">cacao</span></b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> a stimulant derived from heating up and extracting the fermented result from the cacao bean pod. In its natural form, it has an unpleasant taste and must be processed in order to produce the "chocolate" effect. Cacao has some nutrients however it contains more toxins than nutrients</span></div><br />
This is but a short list as I have also cut out many other things. The point however, is that the knowledge gained of how these things effect me enables me to propel myself forward should I find myself faltering. This knowledge provides the "starting" point for the next leg of the journey.<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Jumping Ahead</span></i></b><br />
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Each of these items landed me back at square one. As I began again, I utilized the knowledge obtained previously to jump ahead, actually beginning at the last drop off<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztSW2zCo09agZukpIXd5WWooCKQEdNMWQXK8kZtlOHL61WHZ8GHVd60ScYp_FCJJDxOBVPeHBcd5EM4UJ79aZJqizvolFbIuvk3FLETfn6IqL4LMK9UdhdkhcBGi8AqzaQyUxemj2U_d1/s1600/jump+ahead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztSW2zCo09agZukpIXd5WWooCKQEdNMWQXK8kZtlOHL61WHZ8GHVd60ScYp_FCJJDxOBVPeHBcd5EM4UJ79aZJqizvolFbIuvk3FLETfn6IqL4LMK9UdhdkhcBGi8AqzaQyUxemj2U_d1/s200/jump+ahead.JPG" width="182" /></a></div>point instead of doing everything "over". This method can be used for any initiative you seek to achieve whether it is weight lifting, eating raw vegan, or learning how to fly a kite. I recently spoke with someone who admitted to me that they were not being honest when asked the question "How are you doing?". This person would respond "Great". Secretly, in silence, that was not the case. In a need to "come clean" this individual confessed to me that they had indeed not been doing all that well. After thanking this awesome human being for trusting me with their honesty, I informed that there was nothing wrong with their answer as sometimes the question is asked rhetorically, or as a gesture of politeness. If this is the case, then the inquisitor really isn't looking for an answer. When the person answered the question, everything in their life was not great however, a few components were. Focusing on the positive aspects will help deal with the points in life that are not so great. Sometimes the question is asked as a litmus test for your failure if the person asking is not in your corner. In this instance, the answer would still be "great" since the objective is to steer away from negativity and to embrace that which is awesome in your life. I am not advocating lying, I am advocating focus and communication of your positive truths in which to feel and express goodness. This will always be true for no matter what you are in the midst of, you are capable of good and great. It is always in your possession. It is up to you to recognize it. Use it to jump ahead over past transgressions and setbacks, arm yourself with your new knowledge to begin once more with different thoughts and different ways to thrust yourself exactly to the point where you left off, starting again, moving forward along your path.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GLtHQY_o3Lxus8JTlgkQ2iyEGtabteaFwB5zfgLrbgBebuWfsDfXU5H5cJWerQbVgoi6OeuP8DPeRk8AoxjmPJQ4RwHRA6fqBFNLZeoY_x-DcOb1Vmfyc5fMdvo4EW4dZsbbNOnQZGmZ/s1600/forward+fold.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_GLtHQY_o3Lxus8JTlgkQ2iyEGtabteaFwB5zfgLrbgBebuWfsDfXU5H5cJWerQbVgoi6OeuP8DPeRk8AoxjmPJQ4RwHRA6fqBFNLZeoY_x-DcOb1Vmfyc5fMdvo4EW4dZsbbNOnQZGmZ/s200/forward+fold.JPG" width="143" /></a></div><i style="color: #073763;"><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Yoga: Uttanasana</span></b></i><span style="color: #073763;"> - <b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Standing Forward Fold or Bend</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #073763;">Purpose of forward fold is to open and strengthen the hamstrings and hips. </span><span style="color: #073763;"> It requires strong legs and fosters humility by introducing a quiet mind. It is sometimes called the pose of surrender. In this instance it is surrendering to gravity and breath. As you practice uttansana, surrender breath, acknowledging that which did not work; surrender gravity, expressing gratitude for positive opportunity to jump ahead with strong legs to begin again.</span></div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1520827245846181865.post-6453583568482783682012-01-12T12:18:00.000-05:002012-03-01T10:03:50.394-05:00The Power of Will<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This past month, I have been struggling with the will to rise each morning with focus on a newly established physically demanding workout regiment. While I readily enjoyed the results of an arduous workout, I realize that I had been viewing it as a formidable task. The challenge I created for myself left me no longer able to enjoy the training. The issue lies in the will to initiate the process as I found that I was forcing work that I perhaps needed to view differently. This realization came surprisingly when I received an observation from someone after I expressed gratitude to a friend for the motivational boost to workout despite lack of enthusiasm. He mentioned that although I received a push to move, in the end it was still up to me to do it. It was an eye opening moment that I was grateful for. It was the shove instead of push that I needed. He was correct. No matter what inspiration you receive, it is still up to you and you alone to muster the power of will to achieve anything that you seek to do - no one or no thing can do it for you.<br />
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<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Problem with Perfection</b></i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNOdVQHSrl2s5o9GKdEcreGsxYXNwuE5Z2LPJ33qVM-ZwQGHRWjBgzWMvtHzTswkN3XV0pstC9VrpaMq9S5uMntDZ653weZCWD5mmyOSxsS-GNU9xkHxOSOB3I7-2xaja43A4xTtazsCZ/s1600/reality+check.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMNOdVQHSrl2s5o9GKdEcreGsxYXNwuE5Z2LPJ33qVM-ZwQGHRWjBgzWMvtHzTswkN3XV0pstC9VrpaMq9S5uMntDZ653weZCWD5mmyOSxsS-GNU9xkHxOSOB3I7-2xaja43A4xTtazsCZ/s200/reality+check.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>This "aha moment" led to a personal examination of why I felt so compelled to do all and "be all". The answer was simple. I was seeking perfection, wanting too much too fast, and becoming impatient. I had forgotten my yoga training of self acceptance in the moment, as you are, where you are. I wanted the results of such a workout to be evident immediately instead of taking the time to build toward the goal. I was mentally and unrealistically imposing someone else's definition of "success" over a picture of myself. Therein lies the problem with perfection. When you strive and push yourself too hard towards someone else's goal, you will burn out, crash and fail, achieving nothing even close to your original objective. Humbled by the truth of this reality check, I started over with clear focus.<br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>The Will to Live</b></i></span><br />
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During this will power challenge, I was fortunate to view the movie, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1315981/">"A Single Man"</a>. The movie was about life, that despite all we may do to self destruct or move toward the alternative, when faced with it, most of us fight with frenzied passion to survive, exercising a tremendous innate force - exerting the will to live. I was so moved by the ability we all possess to breathe the breath we breathe. When faced with the possibility not being able to do so, we will ourselves to the very end to cling onto it yet, we take it for granted, focusing on things not at all important in the grand scheme. It is the during the quiet time when we are alone with ourselves, in the small instance when we think about these things and make the effort to exert the will to live is when we are most powerful. It is that instance which struck me with awe and moved me to tears. I came to the understanding that, will power is but a mechanism to demonstrate the will to live.<br />
It is very humbling and reminds us to get rid of artificial goals, deadlines, and New Year's resolutions...be grateful for simple things, be grateful for who you are, be grateful for where you are, be grateful for what you <i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">can</span></b></i> do.<br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Lifting Weights</span></b></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9Vuu7aS4mc46Lkt85hZuerS9iTBmPEPPgGlZXfPr4TUP6iwJ0jZi5aXdyBQG-9tNlfijjBDVg2FAhaWodYanPHQ38LNch7awV_3szEVzPGvD5fimB2anmB5CVNM4Sx0-I_wJOUTeDrO2/s1600/lifting+weight.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9Vuu7aS4mc46Lkt85hZuerS9iTBmPEPPgGlZXfPr4TUP6iwJ0jZi5aXdyBQG-9tNlfijjBDVg2FAhaWodYanPHQ38LNch7awV_3szEVzPGvD5fimB2anmB5CVNM4Sx0-I_wJOUTeDrO2/s320/lifting+weight.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
All of this started as I had created a weight lifting and muscle toning regimen for myself. Trying to do all each day. As I mentally cleansed, I began to lift the "weight" of feeling that I had to work until exhaustion. I was able to think clearly and obtain a new focus with a realistic plan -a plan just for me. It was time to "recoup, regroup, and restart". Ahhh....what a beautiful exhalation. The first step I took was to stop "wearing", trying to "fit" other people's goals and began to wear my own, changing the paradym of what "success" looked like for <i><b><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">me</span></b></i>. <br />
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When you think of lifting weights, you think of moving or manipulating something heavy. In this instance, as I physically lifted the weight of the bench press or dumbbells, I changed my thought process from negative to positive as each weight lifted is also the lifting of the burden of not wanting to do that which would benefit me, to learn to appreciate what is best for me. It is acceptance of what I can lift right now, today, at this moment with the understanding that as I do what I can in this instance, I will grow stronger and perhaps tomorrow, I will be able to lift more for a little longer. Whether I will be able to do more is not important. The key is recognizing that I, along with each of you possess the will and the power to do whatever it is we are doing in the present moment and that each of us have the capability to generate the fuel to do the very same tomorrow. <br />
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It is only at the end of a task will you be able to determine if you are able to do more. So instead of biting off more than you can chew, accept what is in your mouth today and savor the flavor with gratitude. If you are fortunate and have an opportunity to take a second bite then do so. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">"It is not enough to take steps which may some day lead to a goal; each step must be itself a goal and a step likewise"</span></b></i> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXoS3URbBTaU4mfMoGOU23J2ZvpMPzRi1M97oWEMfaaIPcXggRm7dbJlu6Hqnq5erNCLaXYkU932onBvrsGKGja63ntBIFDYbNFqvGz8zpHLzlp70Bn_fEXqAozW1WUldIii9zHpBCKFJ/s1600/steps.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXoS3URbBTaU4mfMoGOU23J2ZvpMPzRi1M97oWEMfaaIPcXggRm7dbJlu6Hqnq5erNCLaXYkU932onBvrsGKGja63ntBIFDYbNFqvGz8zpHLzlp70Bn_fEXqAozW1WUldIii9zHpBCKFJ/s320/steps.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>If you realistically establish your goal for what you can do within the moment, you soon will discover that in time, you will you have advanced far more quickly than you would have if you remained focused on outcome. Instead, accomplish one step at a time as each step will eventually deliver the overall objective. Slow and steady wins the race. Taking small increments will ensure goals are realistic and obtainable. Use will power to address each step with the enthusiasm of the will to live. This revelation has opened my eyes, lifting the weight of the albatross I had hung around my neck, freeing my power, releasing my will. With new found fervor and renewed power of will, I awake happy for the present day with passion to climb just the one step I will climb today knowing that each day as I climb this one step, I am one step higher than the day before and one step closer to the step for tomorrow. <br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Yoga: Balasana - Child's Pose</b></i></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JKZy0SzWP6Ss3Pxy8sWshWzIVXx2nKONT9wPo7I_3qIHytCPX1aqhQuQeb_UUNAw0a39TvkuEeEZMTUVe00K3pkAIXjfGX46A_2Y73__kXZdirL39-YMBluVwrXyplghfa_gnm9Ze_VA/s1600/child%2527s+pose.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #073763;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_JKZy0SzWP6Ss3Pxy8sWshWzIVXx2nKONT9wPo7I_3qIHytCPX1aqhQuQeb_UUNAw0a39TvkuEeEZMTUVe00K3pkAIXjfGX46A_2Y73__kXZdirL39-YMBluVwrXyplghfa_gnm9Ze_VA/s200/child%2527s+pose.JPG" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #073763;">In gratitude for reality checks and restoration of self-truth, Balasana or child's pose. In yoga, the child's pose is a rest between challenging postures. It humbles, cleanses, calms breathing, settles the mind and the body. The child's post is an exhaling opportunity for respite, providing the balance and gravity necessary to facilitate the ability to take one step at a time.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763;">Namaste.</span></div>Yoga Girlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08254036359391515653noreply@blogger.com0