Category Archives: Uncategorized

Rejuvinating Ayurvedic Oatmeal Recipe

Ayurveda is an ancient, holistic science of health, well-being and inner balance of body, mind and spirit—also known as the “sister science of yoga.” Ayurveda is a vast and remarkable knowledge base that offers us incredible wisdom to not only be free from disease, but to experience optimal health, vitality and longevity.

Ayurveda teaches us is that diet and lifestyle are considered the most important forms of medicine.

So here is a delicious, deeply nourishing, comforting oatmeal recipe with great healing and nutritive properties to balance the Doshas, one’s individual elemental constitution, cultivate a calm, peaceful and clear state of mind, and increase Ojas, the vital life force energy responsible for vitality, longevity, energy immunity, softness and glow.

This recipe is great anytime of the day, or in any season, however, this bowl is particularly nourishing on rainy days, for yogis wanting great health and well-being body & mind to receive the most from their everyday practices, or for those needing some additional nourishment to aid recovery from mental or physical stress, illness, physical overexertion or fatigue.

Comforting and satisfying, yet light and fresh, grounding and easy to digest, this delicious recipe contains a the perfect blend of flavours and aromas. Aromatic rose and vanilla, combined with the creaminess of coconut and almond, and sweetness of dates and honey – your taste buds will be simply delighted!

SERVING: 1-2 (depending on hunger) 😉

INGREDIENTS

1 cup Rolled Oats
2 cups Water
4-6 Dates (Pitted & Chopped)
2 tbsp Shredded Coconut
1/2 Organic Ghee or Coconut Oil
1/8 tsp Cardamom (Ground)
1/8 tsp Vanilla Powder
1 tsp Dried rose petals (optional)
1 tsp Almond Butter (optional)
Dash of Salt (aids digestion)
Honey or Maple Syrup (to taste)

DIRECTIONS

Boil the water then reduce the heat to low. Add the rolled oats and chopped dates.

Cook the oats on low head for 5 minutes (covered – leaving a slight crack to avoid overflow.)

Remove from heat and add the cardamom, vanilla, coconut, ghee/coconut oil, almond butter and rose petals. Stir until everything is mixed.

Serve, and when the cooked oats are cooled a bit, add the honey or maple syrup to taste.
Eat mindfully, enjoy nourish and revitalize!

ADDITIONAL NOTES TO BALANCE YOUR DOSHA

+ For Vata Dosha (people with an abundance of air & space elements in their constitution,) try adding a dash of nourishing organic milk, cashew or coconut milk, and adding a pinch of warming and grounding cinnamon, ginger and allspice!

+ For Pitta Dosha (people with an abundance of fire & water elements,) add some cooling herbs like fennel seed, and go heavy on the vanilla and coconut! Choose cooling maple syrup or agave nectar over honey to sweeten, and consider omitting the salt!

+ For Kapha Dosha, (people with an abundance of earth & water elements,) eat in moderation only, and omit the ghee & almond butter to avoid heaviness. Spice it up with some invigorating herbs like cinnamon, ginger and clove spice!

EXTRA TIPS

+ Cook when you’re in a calm, peaceful, quiet state of mind to infuse your food with these qualities. Bonus: Chant mantra over your food before you eat to supercharge your food with positive energy and divine qualities – turn your food into medicinal nectar for your body, mind & soul!
+ Buy organic when possible for the greatest healing and nutritive effect!
+ Avoid drinking too much with meals, especially cold drinks which dilute and distinguish our digestion fire. Consider drinking a small herbal tea instead best for balancing your Dosha.
+ For variety or preference, rolled oats can be swapped for white basmati rice – another very easily digestible grain known to increase life force, and promote a calm, peaceful or Sattvic mind. Another incredibly tasty dish!

Did you like this recipe? Check out these “5 Ayurvedic Eating Habits for Optimal Health & Vitality” to get the most from the food you eat here!

What’s your favourite healthy or Ayurvedic breakfast recipe? Share it in the comments below!

Categorized as Ayurveda, Uncategorized, Yogic Lifestyle

5 Classical Yoga Books All Yogis Should Read

Here is a simple but mighty selection of 5 classical yoga books all yogis should read. These top recommended classical and dharmic yoga texts help guide both the brand new yogi and the seasoned spiritual seeker into the true essence of yoga, gain inspiration on the spiritual journey, and deepen one’s understanding of this Timeless Wisdom Tradition.

1. Essential Teachings of Yoga – Shri Ramananda Mayi

The Essential Teachings of Yoga poetically, simply and perfectly outlines the four classical paths of yoga from the Upadesa Saram, one of the greatest treasures of yogic literature. It condenses within its instructions thousands of years of spiritual wisdom. The insight it offers clears many of the doubts and confusion that spiritual seekers encounter on their inner journey towards Truth.

This clear and lucid rendition into English, from the original work of Shri Ramana Maharshi, is sure to illuminate and inspire.

2. Autobiography of a Yogi – Paramahamsa Yogananda

Autobiography of a Yogi is at once a beautifully written account of an exceptional life and a profound introduction to the ancient science of Yoga and its time-honored tradition of meditation. Profoundly inspiring, it is at the same time vastly entertaining, warmly humorous and filled with extraordinary personages. A must read for all yogis!

3. Living With the Himalayan Masters – Swami Rama

In this classical spiritual autobiography, enjoy inspirational stories of Swama Rama’s, one of the greatest sages of the 20^th century as he shares his personal quest for enlightenment and gives profound insight into the living wisdom that is the core of his spiritual mission and legacy.

Discover the rich experiences and lessons learned with the great teachers who guided his life including Sri Bengali Baba, Mahatma Gandhi, Tagore, and other spiritual luminaries— have a glimpse into the living tradition of the Himalayan Masters.

4. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali – Sri Swami Satchitananda

This valuable classical text provides a complete manual for the study and practice of Raja Yoga, the path of self-discipline, concentration and meditation. These timeless teachings are a treasure to be read and referred to again and again by seekers treading the spiritual path. The ancient Sutras cover the yogic teachings on ethics, meditation, and physical postures, and provide directions for dealing with situations in daily life.

5. The Yoga of the Bhagavad Gita – Paramahamsa Yogananda

With penetrating insight, Paramahamsa Yogananda sheds a clarifying light on the deeper meaning of the Bhagavad Gita’s symbology, and the true intent of India’s timeless and universal scripture.

An inspiring and concise introduction to the spiritual truths of India’s most beloved scripture— the Bhagavad Gita explains the step-by-step methods of yoga meditation and right action to achieve union with Spirit and ultimate liberation.

CARING FOR DHARMA BOOKS

Dharma books contain the sacred yoga teachings of Great Sages and Awakened Ones and have the power to show the way towards total Freedom and Bliss. They contain deep and vast wisdom that help guide us Home on this journey of Life— to the Truth of who we Really Are.

As such, they should be treated with respect and reverence. To help preserve the sacred knowledge within these book and out of respect please:

+ Treat books with care, respect and mindfulness.
+ Never place them directly on the floor, step over them, point your feet at them or take them into the bathroom.
+ Keep in a clean place, and ideally should be covered by fabric when transported.
+ No other mundane objects should be placed on top of them (cell phones, keys, water bottles etc.)
+ If you should one day need to dispose of them, it is best to give them away to a library, or immerse them in a lake, river or ocean rather than throwing them in the trash.

Thank-you for your understanding, love and care of these classical yoga books.

Categorized as Advanced Yoga, Beginner's Yoga, Uncategorized, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

How to Create an Altar or Sacred Space

Ultimately, the whole world is one’s altar. One’s sacred space is a place within, that we can tune into at any time to feel connected to our own True Self. However, there is something so nurturing and simply sacred about having a physical altar that we can turn to for daily inspiration and energy.

So here are some guidelines and inspiration to get you started on creating your own individual altar and sacred space!

WHAT IS AN ALTAR

Altars are sacred, defined spaces used in wisdom traditions, world religions and in the personal homes of spiritual seekers of all backgrounds from around the world.

An altar is a space that one may go to daily to recharge with positivity, gain inspiration for living a spirited life. One’s altar acts as a mirror and outer manifestation of our own Divine inner world to help us stay connected with our own Highest Self and the Absolute Oneness that connects us all.

Altars are sacred spaces often devoted to spiritual practices such as yoga, meditation, reflection, prayer, chanting, introspection, ritual, worship, or enjoyed simply as a space of sheer beauty, embodying the peace and calm one may seek.

Personal altars may range from being very simple or quite elaborate, and are created with items and elements of personal inspiration based on ones own individual path or lineage, preferences and reminders of Divinity.

WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE AN ALTAR

Creating sacred space for yourself is a sure way to nourish your soul! Creating a peaceful, calm, nurturing external environment, naturally our inner world begins to make this shift also.

An altar space is a safe, inspiring, nourishing space we can go to daily for inspiration, peace, to connect with our own innate wisdom and indulge in introspection.

In time, we begin to build a relationship with our altar. As we sit before the altar in spiritual practices (sadhana,) we begin to charge our altar with positive and healing energy. In turn, the altar items build and contain that energy and reflect it back to us as we practice within its proximity.

In this way, the altar is a constant reflection of our practices, love and devotion towards living a spirited life, and we are benefited greatly from this exchange.

INSPIRATION FOR HOW TO CREATE AN ALTAR

The possibilities for your altar creation are endless— use your intuition and listen to your heart when desiring your own unique sacred space!

You can set up your altar anywhere, but ideally you might choose the most comfortable, quiet and peaceful area of your home— and preferably a space where you could close the door and not be disturbed.

The foundation of your altar can be anything from a small table, platform, plate or tray, piece of fabric or dharba mat on the floor or a shelf you have.

To adorn your altar, based on your own beliefs, traditions, inspiration and intentions, choose objects, images or substances that personally connect you to your own True Self and remind you of Divinity.

Here are some examples:

+ Images of your Beloveds— your teachers, people of inspiration, saints, deities/archetypes, your family, partner etc.
+ Idols (murthis) of your own personal form of God (Ishta Devata)— Jesus Christ, Krishna, Shiva, Buddha, Allah, Saraswati, Angels, totem animals etc.
+ Items of inspiration that you feel connected to such as a seashell or feather you brought back from a life-changing adventure, beautiful art, tarot cards, books etc.
+ Delight your senses with textures, sights, smells, sounds. For example, in your space you can have cozy pillows, blankets or fabrics you love or mala beads for touch, the smell of your favorite aromatherapy oils diffusing, nourishing sounds of nature or soothing music to bring you into harmony, and plants, beautiful things or art that feed your eyes!
+ Include colors that invoke positive feelings within you and help you to feel precisely how you want to feel in that space.
+ Words of wisdom. You may write down and include a personal prayer, intention, affirmation, favorite inspirational quote, gratitude list or favorite mantra.
+ Invite the 5 elements. For example, you may wish to include:

Water = fresh or holy water contained in a vessel, or a small water fountain
Earth = plants, flowers, gemstones, crystals, mala beads
Fire = candles, ghee/oil lamps
Air = burning incense, sage, palo santo
Ether/Space = burn camphor, the invisible scent of flowers, chant Om, singing bowl

BONUS ALTAR CREATION TIPS

+ Try to set up your altar in a way that allows you to sit facing East or North for spiritual practices— the most auspicious directions.

+ When possible, choose metals or combined metals like gold, silver, copper or brass for idols (murthis,) as they hold a charge more than substances like wood or stone.

+ Turn your personal space into a sanctuary by clearing out clutter, mess, or unnecessary items from the space around your altar.

+ Create and initiate your altar with a grateful heart and feed your altar with love and appreciation every time you see it.

ALTAR MAINTENANCE

Here are a few tips to help preserve and build the energy of your altar space so you can receive even more benefit from the altar!

+ Never point your feet towards the altar.
+ Only items that are new and clean should be put on the altar (new incense, candles, even clean the altar with new paper towel each time, or have a special cloth used only for cleaning altar.)
+ Never place sacred objects directly on the floor— you may use a cloth underneath as a barrier if necessary.
+ Avoid moving your altar or altar objects around unnecessarily. Keeping your altar fixed helps to prevent dissipating the energy preserved within it.
+ Keep it clean— regularly wipe any incense remnants, dust, candle wax drips.
+ Avoid placing mundane objects on the altar such as cups, phones, lighters, pens etc.
+ The fragrance and beauty of elements of nature such as flowers, are given as offerings to the Divine and are not meant to be intentionally smelled.
+ Put nature back into nature— altar objects absorb the energy of offerings such as flowers and give energy back to the flower – in this way, the flowers given to the altar are considered sacred and should be put back into nature, not thrown in the garbage.

Now it’s time to get started on creating your own personal altar and sacred space! What will you include on your altar?

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, Meditation, Uncategorized, Yogic LifestyleTagged as altar, meditation, sacred space

New Years Reflection, Intention & Manifesting

There is something incredibly sacred and nostalgic that the end of the year brings. It is a beautiful time to pause, reflect and steep deeply into all that we have experienced over the past 12 months. This time of year is unique with its beautiful, fresh energy of a new year and the perfect opportunity to re-focus and re-set our lives to living with intention and in our own unique truth and dharma, purpose, every day.

Below are 4 parts to New Years reflection, intentions and manifesting. Enjoy thoughtful, heart-felt journal prompts, as well as tips for bringing in the new year intentionally for the most beautiful and inspired year yet!

So light yourself some incense, brew a cup of tea, grab your journal and let’s get started!

GRATITUDE & CELEBRATE

Acknowledge the magic of the past year. Recognize yourself for all that you have done and all that you’ve learned. It is easy to notice everything you didn’t do; the should-haves, could-haves and what-ifs. But let’s take this opportunity to reflect with gratitude upon everything you did do and learn.

+ What are you most grateful for from this past year?

+ What were the best moments if the year? Top 3 moments?

+ What are some key triumphs, successes and achievements from the past year? Tip: To help prompt you, review month-by-month, or review on your Facebook to remind you. You can also Think of themes like relationships, business, self-care, travel, work or health.

+ In what ways have you grown or expanded as a person in the past year?

+ What challenges did you experience? Tip: Think of people, situations, experiences. Consider your relationships, family, friends, your health, your work, your home etc. What did you learn from these? How can you express gratitude towards these great teachers and lessons?

+ Describe 2016 in 3 words.

REFLECT & RELEASE

This is a prime time to let go of anything you ‘re ready to release the burdens of to not carry with you into the new year. When you complete journaling these, you can even ritualistically burn the paper to ceremoniously release them and help burn any karmic ties.

+ What are you ready to let go of that is no longer serving your greatest good? Think of: A self-limiting belief, a sabotaging behavior, an unhealthy situation, mental conditioning, a job or relationship etc.

+ Are there any burdens, grievances, hurts, fears or negative thought patterns that you are willing to acknowledge, heal, express gratitude towards the lessons within them, and release? What lessons can you learn from these?

+ Are there any physical or mental pains that you can acknowledge, surface, allow and dissolve? How can you heal and release those?

+ From the wisdom and experience you’ve gained from the past year, how can you do things differently this year?

INTEND & CREATE

Let’s put to rest the days of cagey goal-setting, bucket-lists, and vision boards. Let’s revolutionize these goals into crystal clear and powerful intentions built on the solid foundation of who you really are, you’re hearts true calling and your soul’s purpose.

Goals are discipline based; daily chores to eventually— hopefully, achieve a desired outcome. Discipline feels cagey, finite, external and quite frankly, exhausting.

But intention is in devotion; it is instant. It is internal and eternal. In creating a lifestyle that is aligned with your highest Self, you organically manifest that which you desire most. It is authentic and heart-centered. Intention feels open, receptive, flowy and magnetic.

You hold within you the ability to create your world; however you wish it to be. So why not make it deliberate, conscious and empowered choice?

+ How do you want to feel? What qualities, virtues and values do you wish to embody? Make a list of desired feelings. Ex: Joy, Health, Abundant, Inspired, Aligned, Connected, Bliss, Grounded, Inner Harmony, Self-Love, Wisdom, Peace, Stillness, Enlightenment, Oneness, Authentic, Energized, Contentment, Strength, Freedom, Unity, Infinite, Nourished, Beauty, Radiant, Love, Courage etc.

+ From that list, circle your top and most aligned three feelings that make your heart sing.

+ List 5 things for each feeling/intention that you can do to help you feel this way. What activities are you doing to help induce these feelings? Where are you? Who are you with? Ex: If I want to feel inspired, I know that I can a. Be with my teachers b. Go for a walk in nature c. Listen to my favorite music d. Meditate e. Spend time in silence and solitude.

+ Create heartfelt goals/intentions for 2017 to help you feel precisely how you want to feel from the above list. Ex: To feel inspired, I must be with my teachers. So my goal is to meet with my teachers 1x/week. Or go for an early morning walks in nature 2x/week. Or take 1 hour every day in total silence and solitude to nourish with inspiration.

Now, considering precisely how you want to feel, what are 3 goals you’d like to achieve in 2017 in the areas of:

+ Health (physical, mental, spiritual)
+ Relationship with yourself (Think self-love/self-care etc.)
+ Finances/Abundance
+ Social/Relationships (friends, family, romantic, cosmic etc.)
+ Work/Career
+ Education/Learning
+ Hobbies/Play
+ Environmental/Sustainability

+ Create a Self-Care menu— a list of daily, weekly & monthly activities and rituals you can do to inspire, nourish and recharge your body, mind & spirit.

Make these non-negotiable dates with yourself—mark your daytimer, set an alarm, close and lock the door so you can be undisturbed, and soak up in some quality time for yourself.

Ex: Daily = 1. Awaken in the morning and set an intention for the day. 2. Drink a tall glass of lemon or herbal water to start your day. 3. Meditation 4. Daily yoga or movement practice 5. 20 min of silence and solitude. Weekly = 1. Oil pulling 2. Have a weekly detox bath. 3. Dry brushing 4. Journaling 5. Adventure in Nature. Monthly = 1. Go for a massage 2. Go on a road trip 3. Do a new/full moon ritual to connect with your intentions 4. Have a gathering of like-minded friends in celebration

MAGNETIZE & MANIFEST

Feng Shui Your Life:

Before you can manifest and truly experience all your hearts true desires, it is important to first make space in your life by clearing out the old and making more room for the new. This is all about clearing the slate and laying new foundations to build upon.

+ What can you do to create space in your life to manifest what you truly want in life?

Here are some examples of what you can try this year.
+ Clear out your wallet of bills or receipts and change your banking passwords to positive affirmations; create space in your life for financial abundance.
+ Clear off your desktop of old projects, ideas, files and unfinished creations to make room for the new.
+ Give your kitchen a cleanse and your pantry a detox; create room in your life for ease and health.
+ Buy a new day timer that you love to lay the foundation of organization, ease & flow.

Give Ritual a Try

Rituals root us in practice. They solidify our devotion to living a spirited life and enable us to embody all that we believe  to be true.

Plus, let’s not ignore the fact that there’s something so divinely magical about an invocation whispered atop of candlelight, or the vital force that the moon, or oracle cards bring us.

Rituals amplify our manifestations, help us acknowledge and celebrate our efforts, and provide an environment in which we can accelerate through the challenges of life. It’s all about intention.

Use rituals to welcome in a new month, call upon your favorite deities, or as daily practices that remind you that you are loved, and connected, and supported.

+ Smudge with sage or incense, or buy a new crystal to energetically support you in a certain area.
+ Do an oracle card reading to provide some guidance for the year.
+ Moon ceremonies: every full moon practice releasing by taking your list of what you want to let go of and burn it, rip it up or bury it. And every new moon reconnect to or renew your intentions.
+ Have a Sunday detox bath with Epsom salts, lavender oil, and candles to cleanse your spirit.

Reflect

+ What rituals can you invite into your life to ignite and support the manifestation of your intentions and keep you rooted in your path of intention? List 3 daily, 3 weekly, and 3 monthly rituals.

+ How can you invest your resources of time, energy, thoughts, and money into nourishing and manifesting your intentions.

+ Create 3 positive affirmations/sacred mantras/personal prayers for yourself to nourish your intentions. Repeat these daily, and keep reminders of these with you always!

Extra Manifesting Tips

+ Master the art of receptivity; choose ease over effort, surrender before striving and openness over being attached to an outcome.
+ Use your focus wisely; like attracts like. It is the law of attraction. Keep your attention focused on what you do want to manifest, not on what you don’t want. Any time you notice something you don’t want, ask yourself “What lesson can I learn here, and what do I want instead?”
+ Passionately daydream with crystal clarity of exactly what you want; get excited! Talk about what you want and how you want to feel. Connect with people on the same path as you. This sends what you want out into the Universe and it will come back to you like a boomerang.
+Everything is energy. Where you invest your thoughts, time, energy and money, that is the direction you’ll head. Invest in how you want to feel.
+ Express infinite gratitude for what you receive and be open to the form in which things manifest.

May you experience the magic of yourself this year! May you rest in your True Nature— your Natural State of total joy, absolute bliss, boundless love, and infinite wisdom. May all beings everywhere be happy, free and at peace. Happy New Year!

Categorized as Uncategorized, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yogic LifestyleTagged as new years

5 Ayurvedic Eating Habits for Optimal Health

One of the primary principles that Ayurveda teaches us is that diet is considered one of the most important medicines to bring an individual into optimal health and balance.

So here are 5 simple eating habits including what, where, when, why and how to eat for greater health, balance, and vitality— body, mind and spirit!

WHAT TO EAT?

Ayurveda teaches us that every individual is composed of a unique combination of the 5 elements: fire, water, earth, air and space, in varying proportions. This individual elemental constitution is also called one’s Prakruti— and is as unique as your fingerprints or DNA.

This is why— “One man’s food is another man’s poison.”

Ideally, one would eat certain foods that encourage bringing the inner elements into balance, and avoid certain foods that will aggravate one’s constitution and take their inner elements further out of balance.

In the teachings of Ayurveda, not only is what you eat important for bringing the body, mind and spirit into harmony and health, but also where, when, why and how you eat.

WHERE TO EAT?

The most ideal environments to eat in are those that are quiet, peaceful, clean atmospheres where you feel relaxed and at ease.

Here’s why: The process of digestion is regulated by a portion of the nervous system called the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS,) which governs the involuntary functions of the body, such as heart beat, secretions/hormone production, and digestion.

The ANS is divided into two parts: the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS,) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS.) The SNS is related to our stress states— directing the bodies energy reserves to “flight or fight” responses in the body. While the role of the PNS is “rest and digest,” bringing our body back into a state of balance, or homeostasis after period of stress.

Now, have you ever experienced indigestion, bloating, gas or a feeling of heaviness after eating a meal on the go, while working or in stressful, busy environments? It’s because your body’s energy reserves were being directed elsewhere in the body— not to the digestive system and process!

So, eat in environments where you feel relaxed, calm, and peaceful to increase your ability to digest, assimilate and absorb the nutrients from what you eat!

WHEN TO EAT?

Ayurveda teaches us to follow both the body’s and nature’s rhythmic cycles, which are accustomed to our digestive secretion patterns, to determine the most ideal times to eat.

As a foundational rule, eat when you are hungry— when hungry, the body’s digestive fire, or Agni, is very active, and digestive power is high.

Additionally, Ayurveda teaches us to eat our largest and most dense meal midday, at around 12 o’clock. We are very attuned to the cycles of nature, and both the sun and the moon— like the sun, our digestive fire is biologically programmed to be strongest midday. We can also benefit from eating our lighter meals for breakfast and dinner when Agni isn’t as strong, and avoid eating after sundown or a few hours before bed.

Secret Ayurveda Tip: Eat when your right nostril is predominantly open, and drink when your left nostril is primarily open. This is a special teaching of Swara Yoga—a vast science that deals primarily with how the breathing rhythms are capable of affecting all other biological rhythms.

In our subtle energy body, when the left nostril is primarily open, the Ida Nadi (the current of the moon,) is most dominant. This has a cooling effect in the body, and has its counterpart in the SNS— “flight or fight” stress responses.

And when the right nostril is more dominate, the Pingala Nadi, (the solar channel,) is most active. This has a heating effect in the body and has its counterpart in the PNS – “rest and digest” homeostatic states.

Ideally, solid foods are taken when Pingala is more active, when the right nostril is open; this aids in digestion. Ps. It’s usually most dominant in midday— the best time to take the major meal of the day. And ideally, liquids are taken when Ida is more predominant, when the left nostril is open.

WHY EAT?

Know why we eat– to nourish and fuel our precious bodies, to sustain our physical health, to facilitate the healing and repair of our bodily tissues to remain free of pain and disease, to satisfy our hunger and to power our continued existence. Enjoy your food, but avoid emotional eating, snacking out of boredom, or obligatory social consumption of food to be “polite.”

HOW TO EAT?

Express gratitude, pray or chant mantra before eating. Infuse your food with positive energy!
Include all 6 tastes in your meal— sweet, salty, astringent, sour, pungent, and bitter to feel truly satisfied.
Sit down when you eat, and sit with a straight spine. Ps. If you can face east/north when you eat even better.
Eat with love & awareness.
Chew with your mouth closed to preserve your Agni.
Eat at a moderate pace— not to slow or to fast.
Eat until satisfied, not full.
Be present when you eat. Minimize distractions. If possible, eat in silence. Make eating a mindful meditation while engaging all the senses— sight, smell, taste, sound and touch.
Avoid drinking too much with meals, especially cold drinks which dilute and distinguish our digestion fire.
Enjoy a gentle walk after meals to help stimulate digestion.

Try these 5 simple Ayurvedic eating habits to help you choose what, where, when, why and how you eat to experience optimal health, vitality, balance and longevity— body, mind and spirit!

Categorized as Ayurveda, Uncategorized, Yogic Lifestyle

10 Daily Ayurveda Rituals for Health & Vitality

One of the primary principles that Ayurveda teaches us is that lifestyle and daily routines are considered some of the most important medicines.

So here are 10 simple, practical daily Ayurvedic rituals suitable for any elemental constitutions for greater health, and well-being— body, mind and spirit!

1. Wake up before sunrise. Waking up before or with the sun begins to sync our body’s biological rhythms with the natural rhythms of nature— allowing us to live life as naturally as possible for prevention of disease and optimal health!

2. Start your day with positivity. Allow the first thought of the day to be positive— setting the tone and intention for the remainder of the day. Sit up in bed and: a. Set a positive intention for the day. b. Invoke Spirit or say a personal prayer. c. Make a mental list of all the things you feel grateful for or d. State a positive affirmation or chant mantra.

3. Bathe and purify. The body works very hard overnight to repair, heal and purify itself— and it does a tremendous job! Waking up and taking a shower (particularly a cool one, or one that ends with cool,) will help cleanse your body, improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and is very absorptive, so it is important to use products like scrubs and soaps that are as natural as possible. Brush your teeth with a natural, fluoride free toothpaste, or add special herbs like neem or peppermint oil to freshen your breath and cleanse away impurities!

4. Move your body with sun salutations & yoga poses. Sun Salutations are a complete yoga routine in and of themselves— moving the spine in every direction. Do at least 15 minutes of your favorite yoga poses (asana) to open, strengthen and prepare the body for the day ahead. Get inspired with my free online yoga classes here.

5. Do Pranayama & Meditation. Pranayama is the valuable breathing techniques in yoga that aim to control, balance and slow down the mind. What we do to the breath, we do to the mind. So breath slowly, mindfully, balancing the inhale with exhale. Try Ujjayi Pranayama or Nadi Shodhana Pranayama. Meditation helps concentrate our awareness, and focus the mind— allowing us to experience greater states of peace, harmony and balance in life. Check out this guided meditation here.

6. Eat a light, healthy breakfast. Ayurveda recommends simple, wholesome, natural plant-based foods. Nourish your body with fresh fruit or oatmeal!

7. Live life with Love & Awareness. Both Ayurveda and Yoga teach us to live life with Love as our compass and present moment-to-moment awareness. Remain a witness to each and every moment. Allow each moment to come, and go naturally. Without attaching to pleasurable moments and in times of doubt or confusion of how to act in the world, ask yourself “what would Love do?” Do that.

8. Eat your main meal at midday. Our inner biological rhythms are a reflection of nature’s rhythms. When the sun is at it’s hottest and highest, our own digestive fire, also known as agni, is also at it’s strongest. Eating your largest meal of the day is most beneficial at this time for optimal digestion, assimilation and absorption. Avoid eating heavy foods or big meals after the sun goes down.

9. Meditate at sunset. Around both sunset and sunrise (sandhya kalas,) it is considered an auspicious time for spiritual practices due to the increased amount of prana, or life force energy on the earth at that time. These are also times of transition in which meditation is exceptionally beneficial for. These times are not merely symbolic, but are mathematically auspicious times of the day with a unique cosmic influence on our individual psychology. Meditation is also typically easier and more peaceful at these times.

10. Go to bed early with gratitude in your heart. Or go to sleep shortly after the sun goes down. Getting into this routine helps attune the body’s rhythms to nature’s cycles— the sleep wake cycle, the digestive cycle, the hormonal cycle etc. for greater health and vitality. Plus, it makes waking up early easier for a better tomorrow!

Today, try these simple and practical Ayurvedic tips and experience greater states of health, well-being and vitality— body, mind & spirit!

What are your fave daily health and wellness rituals?

Categorized as Uncategorized

Moon Magic: Secret Knowledge of the Full Moon

There is a very deep and direct connection between the events happening in the cosmos above and those happening down here on earth.

We can scientifically understand and easily witness the changing ocean tides impacted by the gravitational pull of the moon on the water.

Now—human beings are composed of approximately 60-70% water. On a physical level, our inner fluids wax and wane based on the lunar cycle. This is why many women menstrual cycles are biologically synced with the lunar cycle. Many women (especially those who individually or culturally are deeply connected with nature and live a very natural lifestyle,) menstruate on the new moon, and ovulate when the moon is full.

In the same way, some ancient lineages of yoga are very mindful of doing physical yoga practices on the full moon, or even avoid it altogether because the change in fluids in our bodies at this time, particularly in the joints, can make us more prone to injuries.

THE ENERGETIC CONNECTION

Sometimes, we can even feel the impact that the changing moon has upon us.

Much like the connection of the lunar cycle with the fluids in nature and in our bodies, there is a very intricate connection of the cosmos with our subtle energy body.

Our subtle energy body is quite synonymous to what modern science calls our Bio-Field or Electromagnetic-Field. This subtle energy body is a concentration of Prana Shakthi— life force energy residing in our physical bodies. It is energy which has descended into the matter of a living organism which vibrates at varying frequencies. Yogic wisdom has known this for centuries— and in the Sanskrit language, we know various aspects of our subtle energy body as: the Aura, the Chakras, the Koshas and the Nadis.

These aspects of our energy body typically correspond with the unique energies of the sun or the moon.

“The central energy channel that flows from the 1st to 7th chakra, through the subtle spine, is called Sushuma Nadi. The energy channel that flows through the left side of the body is called “Ida Nadi” or “Chandra Nadi” (the current of the moon). While the right current is called “Pingala Nadi” or “Surya Nadi” (the current of the sun). These names are not arbitrary, as they actually reflect the flow of solar and lunar light that humans absorb consciously or unconsciously from these celestial sources.” – Ramananda Mayi (Blooming Lotus Yoga)

THE YOGIC CONNECTION

In wisdom traditions and cultures across the globe, the full moon is considered an auspicious time. In fact, even the Farmers Almanac recommends planting seeds on the new moon when rooting force is strong, and harvesting or transplanting on the full moon when crops are in bloom to receive the greatest yield and medicinal/nutritional potency of the crops.

In the yogic tradition, the full moon has been considered a universally sacred occasion honuored for centuries by yogis around the globe— particularly for spiritual practices.

SECRET KNOWLEDGE OF THE MOON: CHANDRA VIDYA

Yoga teaches us the science of Chandra Vidya (meaning Secret Knowledge of the Moon,) and shows us how to harness the power of the lunar rays to increase vitality, mental and emotional balance, and spiritual remembrance.

Of all the lunar phases, the full moon night is considered most powerful for spiritual practices to balance the mind because of the very particular alignment of the sun below us, and moon above us—exactly opposite of one another.

At exactly midnight on a full moon night, the moon is directly above us on the earth, and pulls the lunar energy of the body upwards. Meanwhile, the sun is directly below us on earth, pulling the solar energy downwards towards the base of the spine.

“The effect of this… is that the brain is soaked with lunar rays of the moon both from above as well as from within. This makes the mind calmer, clearer, and more concentrated. Yogis report an increased state of inner peace, vitality, and lucidity as a by product.” – Ramananda Mayi (Blooming Lotus Yoga)

Sacred times, indeed! At full moon time time, the energy of the sun and moon are in perfect balance and harmony in the cosmos. This acts as a catalyst and supports us in finding our own inner balance and harmony.

“This gravitational alignment super-charges the earth with an abundance of high cosmic energy. This energy is invisible and imperceptible to us and although we may not be aware of it, our own biological and energetic rhythms are nonetheless deeply affected by it.” – Ramananda Mayi (Blooming Lotus Yoga)

SACRED FULL MOON PRACTICES + RITUALS

This full moon, we invite you to try:

1. Moon Bathing: Go outside at night and bathe in the magical lunar rays above and within.

2. Meditate: Take time to be still. Meditate— charge the body with beneficial cosmic energy and experience increased states of inner peace, vitality and lucidity.

3. Pranayama: The link between the body and mind is the breath. The breath specifically regulates the pranic currents that flow through the subtle energetic body. Specifically, at full moon time, the pranayama (breathing technique,) Nadi Shodhana is particularly beneficial as it helps to balance both the sun and moon energy channels, which balances both hemispheres of the brain for greater mental balance and clarity.

Learn Nadi Shodhana here.

4. Yoga Asana: Try a few slow, mindful, meditative rounds of Chandra Namaskar (Moon Salutations) to connect with the lunar rhythms within and above. Follow along here.

4. Chant Mantra: Try this lunar mantra to connect with the moon and the magical lunar energies. ~ Om Aim Klim Somaya Namaha ~ Ps. See if you can chant this mantra 3, 9, 27, 54, or 108 times for extra auspiciousness!

5. Connect with intentions: In yoga, we call our deepest, heartfelt intentions that resonate with Spirit, Sankapla. We can use the moons brilliance to help guide our souls intentions and amplify our manifestations that bring us closer to the remembrance of our own divine nature and interconnectedness. Use this auspicious time for reflection and setting soulful intentions!

REMEMBER ONENESS

Explore your interconnectedness with the cosmos and all beings everywhere this full moon. Experience deep inner peace, balance and harmony within and without. Recharge your body and mind, and reconnect with the spiritual consciousness that pervades us all.

Happy Full Moon, loves! Ps. Mark your calendar for 2016/2017 full moon dates in your area here!

Categorized as Uncategorized

7 Sacred Mantras for Spiritual Illumination

Mantras are powerful sacred sound vibrations from the ancient Sanskrit language that are traditionally chanted during spiritual practices in the yogic tradition.

Mantras are composed of Sanskrit letters, each infused with unique frequencies— much like scientific formulas of sound vibration known to have unique qualities, effects and energies. Similarly, Mantras act like a secret password to various aspects of our inner dimension. They are said to hold subtle knowledge in their vibration, and cleanse the body, mind and spirit.

Repetition of a Mantra is proven to have incredible benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. They are scientifically proven to help calm the mind, balance the nervous system, evoke knowledge, assist in healing the body and mind, increase physiological alertness and synchronicity of certain biorhythms, increase health and well-being and create a single-pointed, concentrated awareness in the mind.

Choose one of the following Mantras that resonates with your heart for your highest good and for the greater good of all Beings everywhere.

Om Namah Shivaya  (Aum Na-mah She-vai-yah)
Rebirth. Letting go. Healing. Surrender. Strength. Compassion.

Om Gam Ganapatayae Namaha  (Aum Gah-mm Gah-na-pat-eye-aye Na-ma-ha)
Overcoming Obstacles. Inner Wisdom. Ease. Supreme Knowledge. Awakening.

Om Hrim Dhum Durga Devai Namaha (Aum Hreem Doom Dur-gah Dev-yay Na-ma-ha)
Protection. Truth. Courage. Power. Purity. Fearlessness. Forgiveness.

Om Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu (Aum Low-kah Some-ah-sta Sook-ee-no Bah-van-too)
Peace Prayer: May all beings everywhere be happy and free of suffering.

Om Shring Hring Kleeng Mahalakshmi Namaha (Aum Shh-ring H-ring Cling Mahah-Luck-shh-mee Na-ma-ha)
Abundance. Dharma – Purpose. Beauty. Freedom. Success.

Om Aim Shrim Hrim Saraswati Devyai Namaha (Aum I’m Shreem Hreem Sara-swat-ee Dave-yay Na-ma-ha)
Creativity. Highest Knowledge. Arts. Intelligence. Beauty. Truth. Expression.

Om Aim Klim Somaya Namaha (Aum I’m Kleem Soma-Ya Na-ma-ha
Secret Knowledge of the Moon. Surrender. Peace. Receptivity. Divine Feminine.

With love, practice, and intention invite the secret power of mantras into your daily practice and life and witness great benefit for yourself and all beings everywhere.

Categorized as Meditation, Uncategorized, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic LifestyleTagged as mantra, om

Om: The Sound of the Universe

In our first few yoga classes, it may seem a little strange or awkward to loudly chant a funny “home” like sound before we begin our yoga practice— but with a bit of understanding and practice, you may just fall in love with the beauty and benefits of the incredible sound of Om.

WHAT IS OM?

Om is a sacred mantra and sound vibration traditionally chanted before and after spiritual practices in the yogic tradition.

Mantras are like scientific formulas of sound vibration known to have unique qualities, effects and energies. Repetition of mantras, including the sound of Om, are proven to have incredible benefits for the body, mind, and spirit.

Om is one of the most simple and ancient mantras, or sound vibrations. Known as the sacred primordial sound, it is said in the yogic tradition that all sound is born from Om. Om is known as the original vibration of the universe.

This sacred sound is composed of three fundamental syllables – A U M, which represents the various states of awareness, and the trinity of divine energies of Creation, Preservation and Liberation.

Within Aum, the first sound is “awe,” then the sound “oo,” then “mmm,” followed by a pause of silence.

WHY SHOULD WE CHANT OM?

All life on earth is simply energy, occupying space and matter. Everything we’ve ever known is simply vibration resonating at various frequencies. Similarly, chanting the sound vibration of Om is mathematically consistent with the frequency found throughout everything in nature and the universe.

Known as the “sound of the universe,” the sacred primordial sound and original vibration, the practice of chanting Om is like training our own vibration back to our original resonance— our True Nature. We are symbolically and physically tuning in to that sound frequency and remembering our connection to all living beings, nature and the universe.

Chanting Om is like turning on the switch to cosmic energy— it is the transmission of pure Divine Love, and therefore it is necessary to first chant Om before and after spiritual practices to both initiate and seal the energy, as well as before chanting other mantras to have the full effect.

Mantras, including Om, are indestructible positive energies— meaning they remain in the cosmos indefinitely for the greater good of all and help reduce negative karmas.

Additionally, the repetition of Om is scientifically proven to help calm the mind, balance the nervous system, evoke knowledge, assist in healing the body and mind, increase physiological alertness and synchronicity of certain biorhythms, increase health and well-being and create a single-pointed, concentrated awareness in the mind.

HOW TO OM

Om acts as bookends to the practice. It establishes the beginning and end of Sadhana, yoga or spiritual practices such as meditation, pranayama, yoga asana, or chanting other mantra. It helps to differentiate the practice from other parts of the day, and contain the energy within the practice.

To open your yoga and spiritual practices with Om, try this:

1) Find a comfortable position with an upright spine and eyes closed.
2) Take a moment to ground, center, focus with love and gratitude in your heart.
3) Take a deep breath in, and on the exhale make the sound AUM (awe, oo, mmm.)
4) Repeat 3 or 9 times total.

TIPS FOR CHANTING OM

Begin the “awe” sound of AUM at a lower resonance, and then raise the sound to a higher note as you sound “oo” and “mmm.”

Create equal length of all three sounds A,U,M. And finish the whole sound with a pause of silence as you take your next big inhalation to create the next sound.

Visualize moving the vibration from the lower chakras, up and out through the crown of the head as you feel the sound raising up through your lower belly, chest and head.

On the “mmm” sound of AUM, you may try pressing the tip of your tongue to the roof of the mouth to help rise the energy into the higher chakras.

When chanted with devotion, love and sincerity, the positive effects of the vibrations are catalyzed and made more powerful.

With a greater understanding of the meaning of Om, may you receive more from and deepen your yoga practice, remember your True Nature, and return to Oneness.

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, Meditation, Uncategorized, yoga, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

The Secret Power of Mantra

Mantras are powerful sacred sound vibrations from the ancient Sanskrit language that are traditionally chanted during spiritual practices in the yogic tradition.

The word Mantra comes from the Sanskrit root words “manas” = mind, and “tra” = to protect. Mantra means that which protects the mind from both internal and external negative influences.

Additionally, Mantras are considered indestructible positive energies— meaning they remain in the cosmos indefinitely for the greater good of all; helping to reduce negative karmas.

The physical, mental, spiritual benefits and positive effects of chanting sacred mantras are infinite and powerful for both the individual and all beings everywhere.

Here are a few yoga secrets to unlocking the true potential of mantras.

1) Intention

Chanting Mantra with the deepest integrity of intent— with devotion, love, concentration, faith, awareness, commitment and sincerity catalyzes the positive effects of the vibrations and are made more powerful than chanting mechanically. Close your eyes and chant Mantra straight from your heart.

2) Open with Om

Om, the Pranava Mantra, is an incredibly simple but powerful sacred Mantra. It is traditionally chanted before and after spiritual practices in the yogic tradition. Om is known as the sacred primordial sound, it is said in the yogic tradition that all sound is born from Om.

Chanting Om before chanting other Mantras acts as a primer for the others. Its resonance activates all other Mantras and makes them more powerful. It’s vibration is like turning on a switch to receiving cosmic energy— it is the transmission of pure Divine Love. It is necessary to both chant Om before and after spiritual practices to both initiate and seal the energy, as well as before chanting other mantras to have the full effect.

3) Correctness

Mantras may be chanted aloud, whispered at the lips or silently within, and are made more impactful when recited with correct pronunciation, rhythm and pace. Learning from a highly knowledgeable teacher or guru can help you understand how to chant mantras correctly so you can receive more from your Mantra practices.

4) Repetition

The yogic tradition has specific numbers that are considered auspicious for chanting mantra. Repeating your mantra 3, 9, 27, 54 or 108 times is considered ideal and complete in the yogic tradition for many reasons with great symbolism. Authentic prayer beads (Malas,) will have 54 or 108 beads to help you count to higher numbers of mantra repetition.

5) Initiation

When you are initiated to a mantra from a realized teacher or guru, the power of the mantra is increased immensely. Initiation is like unlocking the gate to the mantras full energetic potential and attunes the initiated one to its divine energies.

6) Practice

Create a daily Mantra Sadhana (daily mantra spiritual practice) to increase the power of the mantras. You may chant mantra during your daily yoga or meditation practice or as its own practice.

With love, practice, and intention invite the secret power of mantras into your daily practice and life and witness great benefit for yourself and all beings everywhere.

Want to learn more? Check out these 7 Sacred Mantras for Spiritual Illumination!

Categorized as Advanced Yoga, Meditation, UncategorizedTagged as mantra