tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25930795176897578872024-03-13T07:59:38.950-04:00Jenn Falk Yoga Mama to 2 boys~ wife~ E-RYT~retreat leader~ artistic spirit~moon goddess --
www.yoginijennfalk.com--
@jennpfalk on Instagram
Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.comBlogger203125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-6961625017713683922016-11-17T14:09:00.002-05:002016-12-04T21:52:03.281-05:00Yoga As Body Love -- For Sacred Self-Care Women's Well<div class="gmail_default" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">This practice is for accepting your body in its current shape and moment. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">Connect to your self-worth through a short sequence of shapes and breath that will remind you who you are. This sequence includes postures that open energy lines through the lower chakras and also the channel to the spleen, which when healthy helps us feel more at home in ourselves. The practice of yoga can be a most beneficial practice to aid in feeling what we need to feel and finding the acceptance needed in the present moment to keep going toward our purpose. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">*I apologize for the 3 videos instead of one long one. Unfortunately, this is how they could fit. If you click to view on You Tube, they will play in sequence. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">In part 1, you can fast forward to around 2:20 to jump right into the practice and skip my opening discussion. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">Enjoy and here's to slowing down and loving these forms that take us places and make us who we are!</span></span></div>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-54275683209534380942016-07-09T15:00:00.002-04:002016-07-09T15:05:12.733-04:00Nantucket Women's Retreat--June 2016<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For the 4th year in a row, I brought a group of women over to Nantucket island for four days of connection through yoga medicine, ocean/island medicine, yummy food, ritual, and fun! This retreat has taken many forms and each year has a different energy, different group and theme. The way things flowed and worked out this year meant that I was flying solo (no co-teacher) to plan, gather food, hold the space, and offer it all up. With that, it worked out that all of the women who came have been long-time yoga students on this path with me. There was no "getting to know you" period since it's been 7+ years of that with each of them! What a joy to be able to get deep and honest with fellow sisters in this life. And to have the most fun and extreme goofball-ness!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I know I will continue to offer this special retreat for Women…and we shall see how life and each year continues to manifest it and bring magic together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here's my photo diary from our retreat this past June:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPRb6jzftFA/V4FF8k_kl9I/AAAAAAAAB0Q/OUtsBkZdh-8VSRgQlZx2dahAtbdN0jmZACK4B/s320/IMG_5897.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setting up our altar space. This view from the cottage never gets old!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EwnArObt2Fg/V4FGnBImvNI/AAAAAAAAB20/1rRZBM2riWUr4lYSpcV72Z5II81pU7a1gCK4B/s1600/IMG_5896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EwnArObt2Fg/V4FGnBImvNI/AAAAAAAAB20/1rRZBM2riWUr4lYSpcV72Z5II81pU7a1gCK4B/s320/IMG_5896.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everyone got <a href="http://www.bryoniewise.com/" target="_blank">Bryonie Wise</a>'s book, Heart Roar, and <a href="http://katebartolotta.com/directory/" target="_blank">Kate Bartolotta</a>'s book, Choose Joy! Plus little wrist malas by <a href="http://claytwombly.com/" target="_blank">Clay Twombly</a>. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0ZFuSCGftg/V4FGiJWM1LI/AAAAAAAAB2g/J5feEMQ-XDQWCHztPEnR0syua8M_d_5FgCK4B/s320/IMG_6006.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favorite shop in Nantucket town…with the best chocolate ganache-infused treats and spices/teas! <a href="http://ambrosianantucket.com/" target="_blank">Ambrosia </a>Nantucket. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MECLVVtb_K8/V4FGDbrfkaI/AAAAAAAAB0g/vJjpafRSwBAv0Yt4pbDRH9nu26RT4Y4jgCK4B/s320/IMG_5903.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first dinner together was a picnic! I made homemade veggie burgers, and we had a salad of local strawberries and lettuce! Plus, rose wine. So good. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVN1MeP6sSM/V4FGFVYe95I/AAAAAAAAB0o/uZPFpVRV4WMgAgO7rEvd9ZdMpdZs069zgCK4B/s320/IMG_5905.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picnic dinner on our first night. Divine. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DvZx9V-LYTY/V4FGJyUifBI/AAAAAAAAB04/bl0vvQ6_x9AxM6Bxp9RsFG1PK3PrLQyvQCK4B/s320/IMG_5910.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Yoga everyday. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1Rc4ju6LDM/V4FGIXBRwGI/AAAAAAAAB0w/Mr2iBg4ALi0qdK6b2lkeJfCYSWKtqbnzwCK4B/s320/IMG_5909.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First yoga practice! Partner relaxing legs work. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMMqeIekZ_c/V4FGL0YtYiI/AAAAAAAAB1A/hyBVWrFNePsHRWuHjrgNAw5j7Rp7aZmqACK4B/s1600/IMG_5931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMMqeIekZ_c/V4FGL0YtYiI/AAAAAAAAB1A/hyBVWrFNePsHRWuHjrgNAw5j7Rp7aZmqACK4B/s320/IMG_5931.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner out in Nantucket town at Proprietor's! Thumbs up. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMXnDuMnvxk/V4FGM2k_RyI/AAAAAAAAB1I/PHNVpvxkXQcmo2N81HEzbSPzzBRg28ClACK4B/s320/IMG_5933.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then, ice cream time!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5tusU64EQZs/V4FGkU-XquI/AAAAAAAAB2o/gUSVxMjGeBkkEmMjTIh0rTBIau_oivo-wCK4B/s1600/IMG_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5tusU64EQZs/V4FGkU-XquI/AAAAAAAAB2o/gUSVxMjGeBkkEmMjTIh0rTBIau_oivo-wCK4B/s320/IMG_6018.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My five year old would give me bird poses to teach each day…here he is teaching me about Osprey pose.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9J7-e4Cpss/V4FGOXtzzlI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/NuM6iZpinSwiBTh1In5a-74keCN8MgnPACK4B/s320/IMG_5937.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect weather each day. So lucky!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cuIxvXJUEZs/V4FGPlgo78I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/E6RhBgyaLYIjK2fd21vOCBMZ0zTI9BQCACK4B/s320/IMG_5949.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome afternoon at Steps Beach!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3oCCz2Im5PU/V4FGRe-WPcI/AAAAAAAAB1g/gWSPhIzmL4wmAxPlh-kVzmpphaBSB30jgCK4B/s320/IMG_5942.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Steps Beach. Magical. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCpbZdaS_mQ/V4FGWGVVa1I/AAAAAAAAB1w/4TJ8nhFtGOUZgCELAyvRLcG4c1ZJijlwgCK4B/s320/IMG_5952.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had a waning moon just after the full moon. Can you see her faintly above our cottage? It was nice to see her in the mornings. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzeR_gbFsts/V4FGXoPmmqI/AAAAAAAAB14/nRzWXLeINLYEzMuTeFxRCH96Tfcp6lejgCK4B/s320/IMG_5953.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yin Practice in the shade.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsbmON2WlqU/V4FGSzXkeaI/AAAAAAAAB1o/JdbsmdffpxQ6KaIcnv2Uwqtn8SbxNBS2wCK4B/s320/IMG_5944.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teamwork dinner that we all worked on together. So cozy. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0eNjuj7ut8/V4FF-XAYh4I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/qgcyNzrhVlUeU8nOnHX0NQP0rqbFAzXdQCK4B/s320/IMG_5888.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hi <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>! Thanks for your magical woman's tea! We miss you!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oMazIHb6zY0/V4FGcyHcRaI/AAAAAAAAB2I/0T37AJ13r5sMO1tc1E06VqmYedLSN7wbwCK4B/s320/IMG_5972.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last night, we always do a beach ritual. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kN_8Bh1Ihw/V4FGeEqzDTI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/qN66ygbtrnEHEQ1hVdp1SX8pE9X9R5P4ACK4B/s320/IMG_5986.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our found beach object mandala creation infused with our personal prayers and ready for release.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kjanKjDk24c/V4FGfpBQVyI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/TLF7ylq93Y8ZfGSA1A4ekmP1L25vEj0sgCK4B/s320/IMG_5993.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The LOVE I have for these women is beyond. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVpT6kN9RAw/V4FGb87S7JI/AAAAAAAAB2A/D0SMZhsGg1YyPfy63e0qG6QeHCd6W_34wCK4B/s320/IMG_5970.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild rose flower essence soaking in the solar and lunar energies so we can take some of the retreat vibe home with us.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">**Stay tuned for next year's Retreat details! There's a solid chance that I'll be offering it in late September next year instead of June. Be in touch via <a href="http://www.yoginijennfalk.com/" target="_blank">my site</a> for more information. </span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lPRb6jzftFA/V4FF8k_kl9I/AAAAAAAAB0Q/OUtsBkZdh-8VSRgQlZx2dahAtbdN0jmZACK4B/s1600/IMG_5897.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0eNjuj7ut8/V4FF-XAYh4I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/qgcyNzrhVlUeU8nOnHX0NQP0rqbFAzXdQCK4B/s1600/IMG_5888.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MECLVVtb_K8/V4FGDbrfkaI/AAAAAAAAB0g/vJjpafRSwBAv0Yt4pbDRH9nu26RT4Y4jgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5903.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVN1MeP6sSM/V4FGFVYe95I/AAAAAAAAB0o/uZPFpVRV4WMgAgO7rEvd9ZdMpdZs069zgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5905.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1Rc4ju6LDM/V4FGIXBRwGI/AAAAAAAAB0w/Mr2iBg4ALi0qdK6b2lkeJfCYSWKtqbnzwCK4B/s1600/IMG_5909.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DvZx9V-LYTY/V4FGJyUifBI/AAAAAAAAB04/bl0vvQ6_x9AxM6Bxp9RsFG1PK3PrLQyvQCK4B/s1600/IMG_5910.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMXnDuMnvxk/V4FGM2k_RyI/AAAAAAAAB1I/PHNVpvxkXQcmo2N81HEzbSPzzBRg28ClACK4B/s1600/IMG_5933.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9J7-e4Cpss/V4FGOXtzzlI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/NuM6iZpinSwiBTh1In5a-74keCN8MgnPACK4B/s1600/IMG_5937.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cuIxvXJUEZs/V4FGPlgo78I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/E6RhBgyaLYIjK2fd21vOCBMZ0zTI9BQCACK4B/s1600/IMG_5949.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3oCCz2Im5PU/V4FGRe-WPcI/AAAAAAAAB1g/gWSPhIzmL4wmAxPlh-kVzmpphaBSB30jgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5942.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsbmON2WlqU/V4FGSzXkeaI/AAAAAAAAB1o/JdbsmdffpxQ6KaIcnv2Uwqtn8SbxNBS2wCK4B/s1600/IMG_5944.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QCpbZdaS_mQ/V4FGWGVVa1I/AAAAAAAAB1w/4TJ8nhFtGOUZgCELAyvRLcG4c1ZJijlwgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5952.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzeR_gbFsts/V4FGXoPmmqI/AAAAAAAAB14/nRzWXLeINLYEzMuTeFxRCH96Tfcp6lejgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5953.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVpT6kN9RAw/V4FGb87S7JI/AAAAAAAAB2A/D0SMZhsGg1YyPfy63e0qG6QeHCd6W_34wCK4B/s1600/IMG_5970.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oMazIHb6zY0/V4FGcyHcRaI/AAAAAAAAB2I/0T37AJ13r5sMO1tc1E06VqmYedLSN7wbwCK4B/s1600/IMG_5972.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9kN_8Bh1Ihw/V4FGeEqzDTI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/qN66ygbtrnEHEQ1hVdp1SX8pE9X9R5P4ACK4B/s1600/IMG_5986.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kjanKjDk24c/V4FGfpBQVyI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/TLF7ylq93Y8ZfGSA1A4ekmP1L25vEj0sgCK4B/s1600/IMG_5993.JPG" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0ZFuSCGftg/V4FGiJWM1LI/AAAAAAAAB2g/J5feEMQ-XDQWCHztPEnR0syua8M_d_5FgCK4B/s1600/IMG_6006.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><br />
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-20070587919444803312016-03-09T13:19:00.000-05:002016-03-09T13:19:07.468-05:00Early Postnatal Snack IdeasNew Mamas (and friends to New Mamas)!<br />
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I'm passionate about sharing the importance of Postnatal support for new mamas in the community or in my family. The first 3 months, or even 6 months is a huge transition for the mama in her body, her mental and emotional state, her lifestyle...everything. Our culture is not equipped with the same "village" that many other cultures depend on. In America it's often an attitude that the mom feels pressured to be able to do it all on her own. It's less likely that she'll ask for support because well, everyone is so busy, and we all have to fend for ourselves. Wrong! We do have a culture that tends to make us feel like we're not enough and builds our expectations on how things should be as new parents. But, it's simply not the case. We can be there for each other and we can lay our guards aside for a bit to step out of of our "busy" days and help some friends in need. Also, every woman is in a different and unique current cycle in their life when they have a baby. This is another thing to remember when it comes to postpartum healing and needs.<br />
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When I teach prenatal yoga and share with my mama community, we talk about ALL of the things. The unspoken topics, the nitty gritty of the body stuff, the transitions in spirit, the baby stuff. It's all worthy of sharing and staying open to all of the options and energies available.<br />
For new moms, typically there are friends and family visiting on/off within the first month of giving birth. Or that's when neighbors bring food by and people are the most helpful. This is necessary. BUT...I urge you to remember your new mama friends in the months after that. This is when they most need you. This is when they might feel forgotten. They are stuck on the couch to nurse a million times a day. They may need help getting out of the house or feeling a bit like themselves again. They may be having a hard time feeding themselves. Or feeling into their bodies again. Especially if breastfeeding...the body is crazy ravenous during this period. Way more than when pregnant! The mama needs good nutrition throughout the day, but often she can't prepare it easily or is too tired/stuck in a certain position holding the baby.<br />
(Mamas, stay gentle with yourselves. You are cared for and loved and you are a superpower of a being simply by caring for your baby or babies and showing up for them each and every day. Nothing else matters, and though hard to remember...the time WILL go faster than you think.)<br />
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My advice? Bring your new mama goddess easy snacks or help her grocery shop for them. Don't comment on how she looks or ask about sleep. Ask her how she's feeling about her current moment, or if there's a great podcast to listen to, or something fun to watch, or ask how she feels as a mom. Ask her what she needs. Love up the baby and give her time to eat or go to the bathroom. Listen. Be compassionate and loving and remind her that every new mama has their something. Their thing about their body that changed. Their thing about their lifestyle that has changed, or their job or their relationships. Every single new mama has a thing. Don't forget it.<br />
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Anyway, new mamas, I love you. I remember. And at 18 months postnatal after my second...I still struggle sometimes to feed myself well and to find moments of real self-care. We all struggle with the balance and the overwhelm. If you hear a mom say she doesn't or you see her perfect instagram life...it's some smoke and it's not real life. We all have meltdowns. We have binge-watching days. We all eat too many cookies sometimes. We all get angry and yell at our kids or our partners or ourselves. And we're all doing great. We are. You are. If you're reading this, you care and that caring is where the love moves out of your mind and into your heart.<br />
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<u><b>My go-to snack ideas for throughout the day when you're a new mama or have little ones and not much time to cook:</b></u><br />
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-<b><u>smoothies </u></b><br />
(my favorite go-to is made with ice, frozen blueberries, frozen greens of choice, banana, spoon of nut butter, hemp powder, cacao powder, chia seeds, spoon of local honey, and then combo of water or coconut water with your milk of choice (I usually do either full fat coconut milk or a nut milk of choice).<br />
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-<b><u>quinoa</u></b><br />
quinoa is fast to cook (around 15 minutes once brought to a boil) and full of protein and nutrition. Once it's cooked, I add a bunch of olive oil, salt and pepper, some za'tar spice. Then whatever you have around. Some days I add sunflower seeds or pine nuts, some avocado, some greens, or dried fruit. Whatever floats your boat.<br />
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-<b><u>Icelandic yogurt (if you're eating dairy)</u></b><br />
my favorite kind is Icelandic, but it could be Greek or other protein-rich yogurt or kefir. I like the Smari organic brand. Siggi's is pretty good. Look for what you can find.<br />
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-<b><u>granola</u></b> with low sugar and healthy nuts. I love the Purely Elizabeth brand and there are some other local brands I get at my local health store. When I have time, I might make my own...but hey, I'm over a year postnatal...so don't push it, mamas.<br />
Easy to throw any granola in a bowl with your favorite milk to munch.<br />
<b>Trail Mix</b> is also a good choice.<br />
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-<b><u>Rice cakes or Toast with any of these toppings are my go-to's:</u></b><br />
nut butter and banana<br />
butter, cheese and jam (Icelandic style)<br />
olive oil, avocado and spices<br />
hummus or other spread<br />
goat cheese<br />
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-<b><u>cheese and crackers </u></b>of choice<br />
you can get gluten-free crackers if needed, or non-dairy cheese or whatever works<br />
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-<b><u>hard boiled eggs</u></b><br />
A bit easier to manage as an egg-eater...I eat them with salt and pepper and other spices, or on toast. That said, I'm more of a scrambled eggs fan and if you get the chance, you can get fancy and create a yummy eggs, greens, cheese combo for nourishment. This is sometimes my mid-morning meal...or brunch.<br />
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-<b><u>beef jerky or other meat sticks</u></b> if you're a meat eater. Pre-made chicken every now and then might not hurt, if you need meat. Bone broth to make easy soups with.<br />
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<b><u>-sweet potatoes</u></b><br />
throw in oven at high heat for at least 30-40 minutes and then you can top with whatever you want. Butter, coconut oil, olive oil, nut butters, hummus, spices...endless options.<br />
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-<b><u>chocolate!</u></b><br />
when nursing, I crave sweets like nothing else. It's nuts. But I make sure to have all the good dark chocolate around. My favorite brand is <i><b>Theo</b></i> Chocolate. A nice daily treat.<br />
Also, <a href="http://apothekerskitchen.com/" target="_blank">Apotheker's</a> mallows and chocolate bars make me feel healthy eating them to some extent. Super yummy.<br />
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-<b><u>herbal teas and tinctures</u></b><br />
there are bountiful herbal concoctions you can use as a new mama that might be of the right physical or emotional support for you. I use flower essences daily, and drink teas with minerals that will build my blood and immune system to be of proper health. You can refer to my gal, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph,</a> for more information, among other wonderful herbalists in your area.<br />
A favorite tea blend safe for new mamas includes: nettles, tulsi, and rose.<br />
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There ya have it. Some of my favorite go-to eats as a busy, breast-feeding mama who is always hungry and eating. ;) I'm sure I'm forgetting something. Here are some other resources for you:<br />
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**My awesome friend, <a href="http://findyourbalancehealth.com/" target="_blank">Michelle</a>, has started something on FB called <b><i>1 Meal Mom Community</i></b>. For tips on how to feed your family. She's inspiring and real and her website and energy might be just the insight you need.<br />
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**My other friend, Mischa, also just posted a <a href="http://www.wildcarrotherbs.com/blog/fridge-freezer-and-finger-food-for-newmoms" target="_blank">wonderful blog post </a>with other great snack ideas. She's an herbalist, doula and compassionate woman and this was a great find of the moment for more new mama snack ideas!<br />
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Finally, if you're a new mama or know of one looking for postnatal support, please don't hesitate to be in touch. I'd love to share or connect you to the right resources as needed.<br />
I also host a sometimes monthly meet up out of my home that I call <i><b>Yoga for Mamas</b></i>. I offer yoga (without your baby present) to reconnect to yourself, and then we drink tea and eat yummy things while we talk about stuff.<br />
I'm hosting a <b>Women's Urban (4 hour) Retreat at <a href="http://borealisyoga.com/workshops--retreats.html" target="_blank">Borealis Yoga</a> in May</b>... and the annual<br />
<b>Women's (4 day) <a href="http://posesandplants.weebly.com/retreats.html" target="_blank">Retreat </a>to Nantucket in June</b>. In case you're a mama who can get away either time for some connection and self-care.<br />
Info on my <a href="http://www.yoginijennfalk.com/" target="_blank">website</a> or on social media.<br />
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Big Love.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MjeIVlZaMM/VuBmcLl01BI/AAAAAAAABu4/SQrZfA2-oLY/s1600/POR-JPiciFalk-Trimester4-76.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0MjeIVlZaMM/VuBmcLl01BI/AAAAAAAABu4/SQrZfA2-oLY/s640/POR-JPiciFalk-Trimester4-76.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gus and I between 2-3 months postpartum. <br />Photo copyright Cara Brostrom. </td></tr>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-78421866798183275822016-02-20T21:17:00.002-05:002016-02-21T13:28:24.356-05:00On popularity and vulnerability, as a yogini in 2016...Virgo Full Moon reflection <div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've noticed over the last few weeks that many of my peers and friends have been wanting to discuss social media, branding, marketing themselves...the do's and don'ts of it all. For me, this brings up the themes of vulnerability and popularity. This discussion seems to come around every few months, actually. It must be a very relevant theme for those of us that are yoga teachers or artists or writers (freelancer-independent contractors--insert your field here). In this time we are living in with social media, and with so many people out there who have marketing prowess for prolific content, it can be so challenging to strike the right balance of what's true (authenticity) to what will get people to see your truth (marketing). There ARE many who have been able to do both in lovely ways, but typically there tends to be much more image projecting in order to share valuable words. Meaning, it takes an image for the majority of people to read the words. I've been doing my own silent research in this area...and have found that yes, it's true that more people will "like" my posts if there's an image of a smiling me in a nice posture, or of my cute toddler in a close up. This can break my confidence at times and make me want to quit it all, but then I realize those images and things uplift people to see in these strange times...and it's not always a bad thing that those images get more attention. This doesn't mean I've been sharing more or less of those things, necessarily. I'm trying to share what's current, in real time, in my life, and sometimes that resonates to people while other times not. However, I realize that perhaps I could have better strategy and post more images that people want to see. Or not. Oy. Who's noticing? What we feel about it comes purely from within and the pressures and ego we put on ourselves to aim for what we think is success. Maybe I have people gently nudge me to do more with my image and brand, but it's me who has to be at ease with it all in the end. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see, I believe in every bit of what <a href="http://brenebrown.com/" target="_blank">Brene Brown’s</a> work on <i>vulnerability and shame </i>have uncovered. And in learning more about it over the last 4-5 years…plus studying with my teacher, <a href="http://elenabrower.com/" target="_blank">Elena Brower</a>, it’s been part of my mission as an individual and as a yoga teacher to stay honest, and to stay in my vulnerability. This is so very hard in our culture at times, but it’s completely shaped my life in a new way. I think (well, I've had some nice feedback) it’s been helping others when I share in this way…though I’m certainly not “popular" in doing so. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I truly believe that once the majority of humans can learn to <b>embrace vulnerability as a strength and necessity towards more love</b>, then the Earth will finally start healing again. For me, the way there is through getting connected and in rhythm with the natural cycles (both external and internal). But if you “follow” me, you know that and I’ll leave it at that. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see I’ve never been “popular." Nope. Not in my school years and not now. I’ve always been somewhere in between. Able to stride the lines of friendships with the introverts AND the extroverts…because hey, I’m actually a little of both. Which has its own awkward qualities and has always had me just “weird” enough to our society’s standards that I never quite make the “hip” list. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">A couple of years after I began teaching yoga in Boston, I started desiring to be a more popular teacher because I thought that was what success looked like. We are projected that idea so much. It seemed like everyone else was doing it and that was how I’d achieve x, y, z to be able to host retreats and do the things I craved. Plus, the popularity and increase in this field of yoga has brought about that want and need in all yoga teachers to stay consistent on social media, with websites, photoshoots, cool gigs, and so on…in order to get students, jobs, etc. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But, the more I evolved to my truth, I saw students come and go. Some wanted to keep me in a pretty little box and others stuck with me. And I realized this was going to be the path and always has been. Basically I’m not the type to agree to teach a certain way in order to get bodies in a room…but that’s a whole other (though related) topic for another time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see, I could go ahead and only ever post perfect professional photos to social media. Ones that stuck to yoga and showcased my practice. Or maybe if I stuck to just motherhood and yoga. Or just women’s yoga. Or just my moon insights. Maybe that focused and neatly artistic presentation would get me to 1,000 followers, finally. Maybe I’d sell out my retreats faster or get more people interested in these ideas that I’m passionate about. I see that that is how to do it. I know there are tactics and tools I could be using to achieve this and be in the popular crowd. Or what if I simply taught more classes a week, or got myself into some more well-known studios. What if I had only signed up for B-school with Marie Forleo (or insert any other popular self-help/business school for the spiritual folks). Or if only I got myself in Mantra magazine…then I’d be worthy of more “followers.” This is not just what I’m writing about here, but what I’ve heard and seen around me, and continue to hear and see. There is SO much judgement, opinions, and ideas of what success looks like that we all swim against a current of shame on the daily. I’ve noticed this conflict among my friends and peers, and at times within myself, too. This idea all around us that we for one reason or another are not worthy to be hip, popular, well-liked, followed, respected, trusted in...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's the ebbs and flows of our time and so we have to stay vulnerable and take breaks when we need to, or share about it all when we need to, in order to manage the feels and allow ourselves the chance to get back up and share again. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">**Vulnerability alert! I just shared again how I sometimes feel unworthy. Let the strange judgements and feelings surrounding this post commence!** </span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">With it all, as I set out to finally create a real website (one that someone other than my non-techie-self builds), in addition to creating a book, I see the need for a logo and a sort of “brand.” Yet I want to do it in my way. I don’t care to spread it all over the world, but I do hope to share my passions to a deeper tribe when the timing is right. And I know SO many wonderful people who I do "follow" and who offer such tools that could help me expand or market myself better...but what if I don't really want to at this time? What if I'm (trying to be) okay with who I am and what I'm sharing in the moment? Perfectly imperfect musings on the perfectly imperfect life of mine. </span><span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">I don’t want to stress over my image! I simply don’t. At least not right now and that’s okay! I don’t want to portray something that I’m not. I believe that the right people will find me as needed, and me to them. That my path will keep going whether I’m widely known in my city, or elsewhere, or not. Not playing small or big. Not playing at all. I’m much more interested in posting images (a mix of professional and amateur), words, and thoughts that are a part of my life in the every day, because my life is my yoga practice and my yoga practice is my life. It’s all one collaboration that influences the other and how I teach. There is no separation. This for sure leads to people unfollowing me. I’m certain of it. The non-yogis don’t want to see all the yoga stuff, and the yogis want to see more. Maybe posts about motherhood or self-inquiry, or questioning different themes (such as this post) turn people off. Well, it also turns people on. There is absolutely no major method to how I present myself out there…meaning how I market myself. I’m just ME. Not sure if this smart or not, but it’s what always feels right. I’ve “rebelled” over the years and never set myself up with a Jenn Falk Yoga Facebook page or separate IG account. For me it’s a combo of simply not wanting to spend extra time managing various accounts (if you have young kids or another job in addition to teaching yoga, you understand), coupled with this fact that all facets of my life is my practice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The various accounts and pages on social media, the strategy, the scheduling it in, the detailed marketing...this works for so many of you. And thank you for your work and your inspirations! I do follow you, too. And I enjoy your success! This is why our world is beautiful because we are all different. The question and the issue arises when we start stacking ourselves up against everyone else to measure our success, instead of asking ourselves what it is we really want from the sharing, the posting, the images. Do we want to be published in an online forum? Do we want someone to comment that they feel the same and that resonance allows us to release our own shame? Do we simply want to get our stuff out to get it out and then keep moving forward, no baggage? It's so valuable to learn from our motives and how we can grow into ourselves with ease. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">What I’m sharing here is to shine a light for those of you out there who resonate with this strange balancing act and the inner struggles over the years to conform, or to not do what every one else is doing. Maybe you’re somewhere in between, which is how I think I am. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So, I share this to say that your ability to rise strong, to achieve your dreams, to honor who you are…may come at a slower pace. It may not look like everyone else’s. You don’t have to share only the most gorgeous, artsy photos or the most perfect yoga shots. If that’s not YOU, then stop stressing about it and share your heart! If you want. If it IS you and your aim is for recognition and perhaps, fame, and you want to take the time to curate how you present yourself, then do it! If you want. Neither is better than the other and both are worthy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Mostly, keep aiming to recognize the power in each of us! To own our shame, our imperfections…because we all deal with it, and see if that not only empowers yourself but your peers. We ARE all in this together even if sometimes it doesn’t feel like it. Love on up and through and out of what you share to bring necessary change and energy to the world through your own small, medium, or large circles! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And if you notice the fluctuations of "followers"…breathe in some loving kindness and know that at least you’re being you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">AND, I didn't even read this before writing my own post...but check out the marvelous <a href="http://chaninicholas.com/" target="_blank">Chani Nicholas</a>' full moon post for more beautiful insight into the balance of being yourself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"We can know that even in the most intense struggles to become ourselves and to find our way, we are still, and will always be, a perfect fit for our own lives. "</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">- See more at: http://chaninicholas.com/you-belong-here-full-moon-in-virgo-2/#sthash.BYL8XgCn.dpuf</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">#beyou #stayweird #socialintroverts #sensitiveandstrong #fullmoonenergy #vulnerability #courage #findingyourownbalance </span></div>
Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-2345626354099905402016-01-07T12:27:00.001-05:002016-01-07T12:28:52.105-05:00Lunar Love Flow...more to come this year<h1 data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: proxima-nova, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsLyBNSz0Po/Vo6e5wURRiI/AAAAAAAABqc/bRYbNE4HfO8/s1600/IMG_3279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fsLyBNSz0Po/Vo6e5wURRiI/AAAAAAAABqc/bRYbNE4HfO8/s320/IMG_3279.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo copyright Liza Voll Photography. Shot in my beloved Iceland. Autumn 2015. </td></tr>
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<span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline1/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.2" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">*written a few weeks ago on Christmas Day-Capricorn Full Moon in Cancer*</span></span></h1>
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<span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.2" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Perhaps you find yourself in this high lunge to give thanks for this day and to send your love out. Spirit needs us!</span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline3/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.4" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">As a Cancer with Capricorn rising, I feel this balance of Water~Earth all of the time. Sometimes the duality is easeful, sometimes not. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline5/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.6" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I haven't always been able to walk down my own path with true confidence...because, well, fear. Fear of what others might think, my family would think, of what my own expectations were. It can be hard to get out of your own way. Still is, but it's feeling easier. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline7/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.8" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Since having my own kids, finding love, AND since discovering what it's like to have true sisterhood...my courage has shifted. The last 5 years have been teaching me to choose more acceptance and love within myself. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline9/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.a" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">So, my truth is that I've been practicing and teaching yoga with the lunar cycles since the beginning of this yoga path (a decade). That path has been clear to me, but I haven't openly shared my method out of worrying too much that I may not be taken seriously. Or that I'm too hippie/out there. Or not hippie enough! You know the stories we tell. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline11/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.c" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The truth is I'm more than those stories and I'm also part of them. We all have so many facets that make us unique. </span></span></h1>
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<span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.c" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I'm part bohemian vibes/part practical. Part wanderlust dreamer/part homebody. Part scientifically-drawn/part mystical moon worshiper. Part holistic health mama/part let them eat the cookies mama. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline13/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.e" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Point is-- We all have to keep moving past what we think we need to be in order to just BE it. To let go and shine. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline15/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.g" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I'm now seeing the Moon infused in tons of yoga stuff and teachers. I'm psyched! Finally, I'm ready to share what seems to be ready to be shared! </span></span></h1>
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<span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.g" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">And yet I'm not going to market myself to look a certain way and sell my method of practice as more Moon Goddess or more yogini mystic than I am. I want all (especially women) to feel included in this way of cycling, listening, moving with the lunar and seasonal cycles...because when we all tune in more, then the world might start to connect deeper to *heart* medicine. </span><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline17/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.i" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">So, finally...in 2016, I am closer to getting my </span><a data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text18/=1$entity0/=010" href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/lunarloveflow/" style="border: 0px; color: #125688; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">#lunarloveflow</a><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.k" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> out more widely. If you search the hashtag on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jennpfalk/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, then you will find my posts from 2015 and onward. And I'm currently working on a book guide for you all to have in your hands as inspiration for your own practice! Yes. Let's do this. </span></span></h1>
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<span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline19/=10" /><span data-reactid=".4.1.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.m" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Today, lift yourself up.</span></span></h1>
Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-79903279818902367152015-11-05T20:38:00.001-05:002015-11-06T09:55:53.445-05:00Diary entry: On Yoga Culture, Retreats, Decolonizing Yoga<div class="gmail_default" style="color: #222222; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: small;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So when I get time to myself to work on my current yoga-related writing and creative projects...I often write about something else, like the good procrastinator that I am. Toss this entry up to the intense Scorpio energy of the moment? Not sure. I normally wouldn't share such a long entry and post but this one felt like perhaps some of you think about the same things? Or maybe it'll open you up to think about such things? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Big thing to remember when reading...I LOVE YOU ALL. All of you yoga teachers leading retreats around the world and putting yourself out there to help people love their bodies, have fun, and be themselves. Please know these are my journal-like thoughts and important thoughts but that I'm not trying to judge anyone. So much of this is toward myself as much as anyone or anything else. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Thank you for reading and being part of a vulnerable discussion within myself...that I feel others can benefit from as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(There's so much that circulates the web about the topic of retreats, and about yoga culture in general. It seems like these discussions have been more frequent over the last 2 years or so. The older I get, the deeper into my yoga practice, the deeper into motherhood…I want to also continue learning and bettering myself as a person. I've been reading and having more discourse about cultural appropriation, about the environment, politics, agh…everything! Here's the thing. It matters! We have the discussions and we can do them with love and respect. Gosh, it's easy to get caught up in the negativity...especially during highly political seasons. Here's some thoughts on some things I've been thinking about. )</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I decided this year after reading <a href="http://matthewremski.com/wordpress/the-war-that-no-yoga-teacher-can-run-from/" target="_blank">this</a> that every time I host a retreat, I will try to donate some proceeds to an environmental cause that gives back to or protects the land we visited. I believe the environment is a most pressing issue of our time. I've also decided to try to stay consistent with my retreats in that they are places that I have a strong connection to and are sustainable for me to do (especially since I have a family). In addition, they must support the local people and culture, they must be out of respect, and they will be mostly about taking time to slow down and give back to oneself through the yoga and meditation practice, and less about fitting in as much as we can for the sake of saying that we went here and here and saw this and this. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm not for or against the yoga selfie boom. I'm for what feels right in a moment. I'm for being yourself and expressing yourself as you need in this moment in time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Now, I'm a highly sensitive person, and sometimes it all gets to be too much. But, if I can do it, and take time to read things, educate myself, look at my actions, and try to change…so can you. It's a balance. Motherhood has taught me a lot about that...and yet I still have so much to learn.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">You see, it's hard to look at yourself and realize, "shit, I was saying that or doing that without really thinking about where it comes from and who it could be affecting." This happened to me recently and it forced some vulnerable feelings to well up. You see, I don't do well with criticism. As highly sensitive, I wasn't allowed or praised for my sensitive nature growing up. It was looked upon as a weakness instead. This has taken a long time to work on in myself, and well, I'm still working. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">In many ways, it's easy for me to be transparent and vulnerable. I do it all the time on <a href="https://instagram.com/jennpfalk/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and most especially surrounding motherhood and body issues. This actually really helps me with my own issues and dealing with criticism better. I'm trying hard to keep it as real as I can fathom, while also staying true to myself, staying at least a little bit private, and also inspiring. It's all so weird, right? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But at the same time, this yoga teaching career is the path that I chose for myself right out of college at a young age. I've thought about giving it up sometimes, as it all has gotten much more saturated and stranger to navigate. I've definitely changed a lot in this last decade. In some ways I'm more passionate about aspects of the practice than ever before. When I see how it effects me as a partner, mother, daughter, sister, friend…then I keep plugging along. I'm just hitting a decade of teaching! I'm also realizing more and more how honest and "me" my teaching is. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've worked hard this past decade to discover my voice. To build my practice. To become a teacher and not just act like one. To learn more. And more. To listen to myself. To take the breaks. To give away my services for free. To also ask for what I think I'm worth. To honor what I do as an art. I do believe I'm not just teaching yoga, but I'm teaching how to make your life an art and a canvas for growth, color, risks, change, awakenings, fun, breaking out of stagnant moments, getting through pain, etc.…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've stuck with my teaching to the lunar cycles in my quiet way of doing so for this entire decade and I'm just now starting to emerge out of my cocoon to share it more widely…to work on getting some creative projects out there and sharing it, and to feel comfortable and at ease doing so. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I mean, ten years is not really a long time to have been teaching yoga. There is way too much to learn and way too many variations of the practice and wisdom to be discovered. It's really true that it's a lifelong practice. But in our fast-pased world, people are <i>seasoned teachers </i>after just a few years...and so now after doing it for ten...I feel strange in ways that I haven't done certain things, like helping to lead a teacher training. But that hasn't been my goal and I'm still grateful that it hasn't happened for me. It's simply interesting that that can be a gauge for "success" after someone has been teaching for a certain amount of time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm also not always staying up with all the things that yoga teachers are supposedly doing these days. It makes me feel odd sometimes because I : </span><br />
<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">didn't study with so and so, or go to this training and spend my money going to this module at this resort, and then perfecting my scorpion pose while in the sassiest new pants and then having myself in said pose featured in Mantra magazine on stands at Whole Foods which then scored me 1,000 new followers on social media. Yowzers. I mean, this conversation is old now, right? We all know of it. I'm not going there. I shop at Whole Foods and I like all things mentioned in doses and with a certain angle of looking and knowing about it all. I just find it interesting that when I get new students or get asked what I do at parties/events, they often want to know those logistics instead of perhaps how many hours I've spent on my own yoga mat listening to my own body, and how many hours I've taught classes. To me, that's so much more valuable than who, where, when, how I have studied the practice or how I look doing it. Though it ALL has some value and purpose, sure. I'm simply pointing out the obsession with success via numbers, images, status, popularity...</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">None of my evolution as a teacher have gained me huge accolades in the way that our culture likes to say people are successful. I've never been in a magazine about yoga, or been nominated for something, but I've been super successful in so many ways in that I've inspired people to teach yoga themselves, or to break addictions, or to find more calm and less stress...all important ways to provide in my own community. This has been a big lesson for me. That it's all as important. But also that now I must keep going and encouraging those that I've inspired to become teachers to look deeper into how and why and what. Yes. I feel that ten years in, it's important that I'm looking at all these things again for myself, too. The cycles in our lives are real and we have to honor them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shit. I want to teach to local teenage girls. I want to teach to local Somerville people who have lived here forever, and not just to those that can afford to come or who feel accepted to come practice. I found <a href="http://swsg.org/" target="_blank">SWSG </a>a couple years ago and offered my time and have done special classes, and I hope to continue...but I'm also raising 2 young boys and trying to keep myself sane while doing so. Plus I enjoy bringing in some income to my family, creating some projects, and thinking about all of this important stuff at the same time. I've realized that I can't do it all and when I'm ready to devote more time to giving back to my community, then I will be able to. The fact that I'm opening myself more and more to these issues is progress. This is an art in itself. I'm so thankful for <a href="http://www.bowstreetyoga.com/" target="_blank">Bow Street Yoga</a> because it feels like one of those places. And I think more studios are feeling like that around this area. But the problem still exists. So much. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What's the problem? Well, it's not a problem, but a fact. I am a privileged white woman with resources. And I continue to lead retreats and teach. I'm not from India, the birthplace of this practice but I'm benefiting from it much more than Indian women or Indian-American women who are yoga teachers themselves could be. This is how our society has been set up. It doesn't mean I shouldn't teach. </span><span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">When I fell in love with yoga in my early 20's and then was brave enough to embark on this teaching journey...I didn't think about these things. At all. And if you didn't either or haven't until just now...there's nothing wrong with you. Deep breaths. We all have to start somewhere. Then eventually we can choose to pay a little more attention to how we're going about it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I feel something so honest and real when I teach and lead retreats. And it's not just ego. When the ego steps in…I try to take 10 steps back. Even then, though, I'm not saying all ego is totally wrong. (This is perhaps a female issue too. We have to allow ourselves to welcome our success and enjoy when it happens too. Ah, that's another essay...)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What I feel when teaching and hosting and sharing is something that's more than just the poses. And I think this reflects in the students who come and receive. I hope? Hey, I don't get the droves of people lining up that you might find in NYC or LA or even downtown Boston. I don't lead 20 person retreats or teach to 50 people regularly. I don't teach handstand or sweaty flow all of the time (hardly ever). I've changed my style throughout the decade and have lost people along the way. But, my heart remains the same. My passions and basis for teaching the practice remain the same. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I haven't cared for awhile to teach most of the class in Sanskrit, or chant. (okay, I do at few certain times say some poses in Sanskrit or do a chant here or there)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some say this is not the true practice. There is so much judgement out there about what true yoga is and what is not. It's more true for me these days not to use Sanskrit as much because I've never been to India and I'm not Indian. I want to include more people into the practice and sometimes I think using Sanskrit can not only confuse newbies to the practice, but also irritate native Indian practitioners. That's just me in this moment in time based on where and what I teach. I love knowing the names of postures in Sanskrit for my own use and I feel that teachers should know them, for the most part. It's an act of respect for the practice among many other things. And I know so many teachers who do it well and teach it well in this way. For me, it doesn't automatically make one a superb teacher who knows more just because they use the "right" terms. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Shall I instead call myself teacher-of-movement and breath? I'm not sure about all of this yet. But I know that over the last 5 years or so I've been trying to figure out more and more of "me" in my teaching style and how I present myself. And so, that means more about: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">using yoga to reduce stress, teaching to slow down in our fast-moving culture, teaching to stay safe in the body, teaching to connect to our spirits and hearts, teaching for more love, moving your body as ritual, teaching as a way to connect to nature and the seasons, focusing on your breath…and it's so not about getting into a special alignment or coming up with the best playlist or the best sequence or getting in to teach at this particular studio or festival.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">But again, I love people who do those things. And, I do teach with playlists that I connect to, I do like attending festivals sometimes, and I do like learning from all kinds of teachers and styles. There's no perfect solution, but it's worth learning what YOUR solution is and how it makes sense for you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm not saying that some yoga teachers out there haven't found their popularity and success for themselves in a natural progression. And I'm not saying that the white teachers who teach in Sanskrit or are steeped in the Indian tradition should not be doing so. No way am I saying so. For SO many, they truly have been to India on many pilgrimages and have a relationship to the land and people there just like I do with Iceland. They come at it all with utmost respect, research, immersion into the culture, and love. It's beautiful to witness and powerful. I'm simply saying that it's interesting to look into why you may or may not use Indian traditions in your teaching. And then to choose and do it with your whole self...or to leave it out if it's not YOU. (And perhaps also read sites like Decolonizing Yoga to get new perspectives.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I think a lot of what drives the yoga careers right now and what people are seeking are often for the wrong reasons. Who knows? Only YOU know. I'm writing this so we can ask ourselves these questions more and talk about it more. Let's not just succumb to it all because everyone else is doing it and we need to do it to. Let's try to keep teaching, making money, and supporting each other in doing so while also taking action to create change. The politicians aren't going to do it for us if we don't first activate and take steps ourselves. That's the way it is. We can't sit around and wait for studios to pay us more, or for other ethnic groups to find us. We have to ask and seek and provide. And, hey, I'm the first to say that I still have a long way to go. </span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yoga Retreats:</span></u></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Here's a big can of worms. My first retreat was with 3 participants down in Dominica (island in the West Indies)...8 or so years ago. The opportunity came about and I jumped for it. We became a part of that community and the land on that retreat, while also having amazing food to eat from the permaculture spot we were staying at and the gorgeous views and rainforest around us. It was not a spa-retreat, but sure it was privileged. One thing we did was to hang out with the people there. And my bff, who was also part of the retreat had studied there and already had a connection to the island and the plant-life there, so it wasn't from left field that we were going there to do a retreat. Anyway, my takeaway is that I had stellar people showing me the ropes of how to do a retreat but also make it count (huge ups to the amazing <a href="http://www.tropicalescapes.biz/about.html" target="_blank">Trish</a> for that). That experience put the retreat bug in my bones. It was profound for me personally to be immersed in that culture, to have my own spiritual awakenings, and to connect with others through yoga and my own knowledge. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So time goes by and I travel to Iceland for the first time and have a deeply moving experience within myself. Initially inspired to travel there by my profound love and passion for Icelandic music, my love for this northern land deepened. I go back and go back there because it challenges me, it opens me, and it brings me into my heart. I make the trips happen and I begin (5+ years ago) to personally develop retreats there because it really feels like my Spiritual place in the world. I even looked up my <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrocartography" target="_blank">astrocartography</a> and Iceland has tons of interwoven energy running through it...for whatever that might be worth. ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">When we go there on retreat, we hire people from the country to work with, we eat the local food, we learn about the culture, I try to teach for the people there when it's possible and include them as well. It's an exchange. It's also not a third-world country, so quite different than other popular retreat destinations. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">With all of this, however, I haven't really made much money myself from these offerings yet. Still learning on that end. It's an expensive place. And is it worth it to only get people along for the ride who can afford such a trip? These are predominantly white people in a predominantly white land. Is that irresponsible of me? It doesn't feel that way at all when I'm in it. But I do wish I could somehow allow for more people to come with us and experience such moments. I'd need fancy people to donate money so that I could offer scholarships. Again, simply pondering here. Still unraveling and educating and learning... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hope that when people bring their groups and practice yoga in Iceland and take their selfies in front of waterfalls and glaciers in yoga poses…that they are doing it out of respect for the land, the culture. Not exclusively to get attention that they are in some other-worldly place doing an otherworldly posture. More than that, can they feel the power of the place? And how that's affecting their mind and body in that moment? If so, heck yeah, document it. Honestly and passionately. I'm not trying to be a punk. I've been there and taken my yoga selfies. I'm trying to continue the conversation happening all around us and within myself. I see more and more yoga retreat companies popping up and they are also discovering Iceland. Different teachers leading different retreats there on the regular. Nothing wrong with this, really. This is capitalism and how the world works. I just now understand how other places must feel that are tourist-driven and then all of a sudden start changing and getting influx of new groups...and mostly white people with money coming all of the time. And bringing their entitled behaviors and perhaps not respecting the land. These are my fears for Iceland. I want to support everyone going there and I want to keep going myself...but when does the madness stop? It's only just begun there. How do the people of Hawaii deal with it? Or in Costa Rica? And the Caribbean? I want to think that yoga practitioners and groups are acting differently when heading to these places on retreats...but you never know. And I've seen all sides. I do feel a responsibility as a teacher and retreat leader in this way to help with the issue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Here's the thing. I did a Mexico retreat a few years back. We actually did hang and vibe with the workers from the retreat center. It was a special retreat center in that it didn't feel too pretentious while we were there. And yet, I did witness some snobby and negative energy when there from a different group at the same center. It made me think about how some people go to these places and treat the local workers with less respect and expect such luxury. It's the strangest thing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I loved being there, however, and I made wonderful connections there while feeling a deep call when we went into the local town to want to give back more. I envisioned going back some day and including the retreat center employees for a class or helping out somehow in the nearest town and doing things differently. I don't know. Maybe going back there is missing the point of all this. Maybe I won't ever go back at all. They don't need me trying to connect with locals. They need me to stay away and spend less airplane emission and keep giving to my own community and to the places I've built a deeper connection to. I'm not Mexican and I don't even speak Spanish well. So yeah. But, hey, I have a strong love for Mexico and its culture. And I know many people who lead retreats there as well as in Central America. This is not to say they aren't doing some awesome work there and respecting the places and people they come in contact with. And these places actually need the tourism. Agh! It's all so confusing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Then there's Nantucket. It's my other place for retreats. I've developed a women's retreat there. It's also an expensive place in a different way, and the island draws a super privileged bunch. I go here because I married into a family that has long-standing history with the place. On Nantucket, my husband grew up going there his entire life (now almost 40 years). We got married there. I've personally connected to the community, the land, the energy there. I'm passionate about it. I want to share it with people in a reverent way. This is why the women's retreats started. They are small and intimate. They are super special. I organize it all myself (with the aid of my <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">co-teacher</a>) and I utilize so many different artists, foods, people from the island. It all feels right. It's not a big to-do. Is it luxury with a conscience? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I've hosted 2 scholarship participants a year. I'm only just starting to make a little money from this retreat. I donate proceeds from that little money made to the conservation fund on the island. I'm going to start doing that for Iceland too, when I make enough money to. I'm sharing because I want to hold myself accountable. And I would love to inspire others to think about their retreat locations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So my plan:</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Continue my relationship to Iceland with retreats because it's pure special magic for me to share. It's real. Once a year or maybe every other year...or really just whenever my life can handle it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Continue the Nantucket retreats because this makes such sense in that I have family to stay with while there and it's truly the most sustainable retreat for me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Find special spots even more local and much more affordable as short-term retreats to open up to even more varieties of people and incomes. Vermont, NH, here in MA, RI? Urban retreats? More Yoga on the Farm! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif;">I'm putting this out there because these are things I think about. These are important issues! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Not many people are sticking up for the people of color, the traditions from India, the lands we are retreating on, the earth we are polluting by traveling to these places to do yoga and meditation…? </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Who's been sticking up for native people that inspire us to use their terms, conjure their goddesses and animals and make a living teaching it while the actual native women who might teach it make nothing or never even get a chance to teach it? </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Heavy, I know. But let it breathe. Let it swelter. It's gonna feel uncomfortable. It's gonna make you feel like a jerk. To me, it's worth it to feel that sometimes when it's a lifetime for someone else. Someone else who is not white and privileged. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sending the love out, everyone. This is all written from a place of love. An opening. It's time for the shifts. I want my boys to be more aware of these shifts than when I was growing up. And hey, this all might sound negative, but I remain an eternal optimist. I'm not going to stop doing my thing. I'm going to push forward with more and more attention, respect, and love. I hope you'll join me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>Super inspired lately by:</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.decolonizingyoga.com/" target="_blank">Decolonizing Yoga</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://chaninicholas.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Chani Nicholas</span></a><br />
<a href="http://freebaltimoreyoga.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Free Baltimore Yoga</span></a><br />
<a href="http://ybicoalition.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yoga and Body Image Coalition</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://sukritidabralsexed.wordpress.com/about-2/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Sukriti Dabral</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://bronwynpetry.com/blog/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Bronwyn Petry</span></a><br />
<a href="http://pathwaystopeaceuganda.com/our-story/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Erica Shay</span></a></div>
Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-90886889504681736482015-10-08T11:32:00.003-04:002015-10-08T11:32:44.589-04:00 Iceland Equinox Retreat :: reflection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just a short while ago, I was in Iceland (my Spirit home) for the 7th time. This trip it was my honor to have brought a group over on retreat for the 3rd time...and this time for a very special one. This retreat was a collaboration with my oldest and dearest friend, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>. She and I first visited Iceland together 8 years ago! I've been the lucky one who has gotten to continue going back, so it was awesome that after all this time, we made this work. You see, we've been joining forces over the last couple of years to offer our passions as a special collaboration we call <b><i>Poses & Plants</i></b>. It's a combination offering of both yoga and herbal wisdom, and typically in rhythm to the seasonal and lunar cycles. After hosting a women's retreat at the Summer Solstice in June, it was powerful to take our new group to Iceland for the Autumn Equinox! We had such an amazing collection of artists, creatives, mothers, intellectuals, and soul searchers. It was potent to be on the Snaefellesnes Peninsula in West Iceland, where the glacier there holds a powerful energy that aids in aligning your 4th and 7th chakras. This is pretty much my favorite area in the world to visit. When I'm there, I feel that anything is possible and I feel so expansive and open to be the person I know that I am. What a gift it was to share that with the group, and to have done so with my very dearest friend by my side.</div>
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We stayed put for 3 nights at a secluded and magical hotel, in which we wandered in surrounding lava fields to identify plants with Steph, did an equinox ritual on the beach, ran out in the middle of the night to view the Northern Lights, and practiced yoga with a view of waterfalls, the sea, sheep, and an array of breathtaking beauty. </div>
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The last 2 nights, we then moved to the northern side of the peninsula to stay in a larger town (full of 1,000 inhabitants...which is one of my favorite towns in Iceland). We were lucky enough to have insightful meditation and yoga practice in the art installation <a href="http://www.libraryofwater.is/" target="_blank">Library of Water</a> there. This place I have visited before...is a dream setting and vibe for me to teach in, with powerful acoustics for my beloved Icelandic music playlists. Such reverence we shared in that space for the country, nature, and people of Iceland. </div>
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Steph ended the learning portion of our retreat in our cozy hotel with herbs to help ease transition and stress, which is key upon returning home from such a place, and for re-entering city life. </div>
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On our last morning, we took an incredible drive back to Reykjavik, from which we stopped at a secret waterfall and also to sample some traditional pastries. The whole trip flowed smoother and came together as it did because of our beautiful raven-goddess of a driver/native Icelandic guide, Valgerdur. What a gift she was to our entire experience. SO much love and good energy.</div>
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Once back in Reykjavik, some of the group had to depart right away and the remaining crew enjoyed a short city tour from the exceptional <a href="http://www.iheartreykjavik.net/" target="_blank">I Heart Reykjavik </a>walking tour before going off on our own to take in the city. We ended the whole trip with the complete MAGIC of the Super (Full) Moon/Lunar Eclipse, in which I had the privilege of teaching my #lunarloveflow for a special Full Moon class at <a href="http://solir.is/" target="_blank">Solir Yoga</a> in Reykjavik that night! Such a growth experience and honor for me. And the skies were clear that night for us to bask in the brilliant glow and then mystery of nature. </div>
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Through it all, I had my supportive and wonderful husband and 2 young sons along for the ride! My babe is just-turned-one and we are still very attached and nursing, so I could not have done this trip without my little family along. What a dear, amazing, heart-filled group we had to embrace this for me and allow me to continue to grow as a teacher, leader, and woman. With my job being that as a yoga teacher-leader-creative...I've made a decision to simply try to integrate motherhood into it all. It makes sense and works for me and my family. It's not always easy, and our culture might insist I do it one way or the other way...but I'm so grateful for the opportunities I have and we will keep moving forward with it. This trip was an experience we won't forget. </div>
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Until the next one...here are some photo highlights!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph and I on our first night back in Iceland together (with me wearing baby Gus)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our altar view from our yoga space...with rainy windows that look like a watercolor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Icelandic poppies were still in bloom, among other things. We had many herbs and plants to learn from!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sweet littlest one and I while everyone hiked up a crater.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h6vhIJu1da4/VhXK15-n1OI/AAAAAAAABiM/lDBmTTIzmV8/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h6vhIJu1da4/VhXK15-n1OI/AAAAAAAABiM/lDBmTTIzmV8/s320/IMG_1886.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Connection. Rejuvenation. Listening.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KpOkVJD6so4/VhXKh732LmI/AAAAAAAABhE/oXftGCAnKxE/s1600/IMG_2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KpOkVJD6so4/VhXKh732LmI/AAAAAAAABhE/oXftGCAnKxE/s320/IMG_2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph teaching her tea class on our last day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our whole group eating a fantastic meal in Stykkisholmur!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1ZyZ63w2A8/VhXKi-lhqRI/AAAAAAAABhc/kvO5eyZkLrI/s1600/IMG_2019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1ZyZ63w2A8/VhXKi-lhqRI/AAAAAAAABhc/kvO5eyZkLrI/s320/IMG_2019.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical fare: tasty local fish, a little bit of vegetable, potatoes, and sometimes some yummy Icelandic beer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DGCWHnDsWzk/VhXKjjkGo-I/AAAAAAAABhk/86uwKEyUQNg/s1600/IMG_2020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DGCWHnDsWzk/VhXKjjkGo-I/AAAAAAAABhk/86uwKEyUQNg/s320/IMG_2020.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stykkisholmur, our second destination.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki6ADJaoPFY/VhXKtbg7JZI/AAAAAAAABhs/q1dxvsABiuM/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki6ADJaoPFY/VhXKtbg7JZI/AAAAAAAABhs/q1dxvsABiuM/s320/IMG_1953.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzQ07qEqwGI/VhXKtWBS2-I/AAAAAAAABhw/IYFf2zQJ5Kw/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzQ07qEqwGI/VhXKtWBS2-I/AAAAAAAABhw/IYFf2zQJ5Kw/s320/IMG_1966.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga practice at the Library of Water. Such a special place to feel our breath.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaEPvbzbDBA/VhXK1_p_HdI/AAAAAAAABiE/OkBRr_Xt6q4/s1600/IMG_1893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaEPvbzbDBA/VhXK1_p_HdI/AAAAAAAABiE/OkBRr_Xt6q4/s320/IMG_1893.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trolls!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6vg3v0GKV-I/VhXK2bIapqI/AAAAAAAABiQ/PZp_eU-duRA/s1600/IMG_1901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6vg3v0GKV-I/VhXK2bIapqI/AAAAAAAABiQ/PZp_eU-duRA/s320/IMG_1901.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from a hike. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x4lplDaSykY/VhXK2S4Gc7I/AAAAAAAABiY/oM44JLROA3w/s1600/IMG_1905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x4lplDaSykY/VhXK2S4Gc7I/AAAAAAAABiY/oM44JLROA3w/s320/IMG_1905.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our unbelievable yoga practice space at our first hotel. And my set-up assistant, Isak.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tgy0VSArHNQ/VhXK8VB6OTI/AAAAAAAABis/98-TDgGp8G0/s1600/IMG_1825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tgy0VSArHNQ/VhXK8VB6OTI/AAAAAAAABis/98-TDgGp8G0/s320/IMG_1825.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our group during Steph's intuitive plant-drawing session. In the lava fields.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Snaefellsjokull glacier at sunset from our hotel. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fancy dinner times. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Majesty. The words used to describe Iceland are cliche...but there really are no words. You just have to FEEL it for yourself.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My older boy, spreading his cute spirit wherever he goes. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us 3 leaders of the trip, post-hike. So grateful for these strong women. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband and I taking a moment of rest while our older one naps and I nurse the babe.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Secret waterfall!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legs up the Glacial Water Column-- sneak peek at a collaboration project I'm doing with Liza Voll. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the various rainbows we saw...this one greeting us back in Reykjavik!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beginning our walking tour of Reykjavik.</td></tr>
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For more gorgeous photos and different viewpoints/takeaways of this Retreat Trip, please enjoy these blogposts:<br />
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~<a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/blog/an-icelandic-retreat-of-yoga-herbs" target="_blank">Steph's take</a> : her insightful and graceful plant-inspired recap of our experience.<br />
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~<a href="http://www.catalogueobjects.com/2015/10/80-travelogue-snfellsnes-peninsula.html" target="_blank">Liana's take</a> : a stunning array of her photography from the trip, as well as recommendations for her favorite spots.<br />
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And follow <a href="http://lizavollphotography.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Liza Voll Photography</a>! She was our professional photographer on the trip. I will be spending the winter revamping my <a href="http://www.yoginijennfalk.com/" target="_blank">website</a> with some of her work, among other things we are working on together.Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-34687490991038230552015-06-29T23:07:00.000-04:002015-06-29T23:07:25.273-04:00Women's Summer Solstice Retreat on Nantucket::2015<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm fresh off of hosting my 3rd annual Women's Summer Retreat on Nantucket! This was my 2nd year in a row leading it with my oldest and dearest, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph Zabel</a>, to combine our passions for our <b><i>Poses & Plants</i></b> theme of Yoga and Herbalism woven together to provide deep nourishment for the heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There truly aren't many words to describe the power and beauty that comes from this experience. Each year the group changes and each has its own qualities to be exactly what we all need. The magic is real and potent when we listen in to the rhythm of nature with the change of the season, and when we connect to each other in that cycle as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are some photos that I was able to capture. You can view more via <i>Instagram</i> through <b>#summersolsticeretreat</b>…just look for the ones from Nantucket! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wade Cottages</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our view from the cottage where we dined</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph and I just before arrivals</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We practiced outside 3 out of the 4 times. Heaven. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sconset, Nantucket view</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beauty of homemade food and love for it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power in the Energy of all of us. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plant ID class</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herbalist Goddess</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph and I cooked most dinners!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Puja Power. Kuan Yin Goddess Love.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower essence crafting</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foraging for wild beach roses</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph teaching us the art of making Wild Rose tinctures and wine!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenzie the cat was our friendly ambassador for the weekend!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wade Cottages has now created this fantastic and sweet indoor retreat space for use on rainy weather days! It was nice to have a practice in here after a full day of storms and rain. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emily's brilliant lomi lomi hands for our healing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our brilliant group post-practice!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gratitude selfie</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herb Blending Tea class with Steph</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our portal to the sea</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poetry, crystals, plants, intentions...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Closing circle and final practice</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Women Power</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solstice Ritual</td></tr>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-2777022090025327122015-06-10T13:27:00.000-04:002015-06-16T22:33:14.610-04:00Yoga Teacher Mamas/Papas-- On leading retreats<br />
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Maybe I'm just in my mid-30's now and so I notice more yoga teacher mamas...or maybe it's because there are so many more yoga teachers now, and so there are more teacher mamas? Either way, it's cool to see more dedicated yoga teachers becoming parents and making it work.</div>
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Being a dedicated yoga teacher while also being a dedicated Mama (or Papa) is great because it's typically a welcoming job environment and a flexible schedule. I'm super grateful and lucky in that regard. But at the same time it's not all flowers and meditation. <i class="_4-k1 img sp_KzR5XM7-sC1 sx_db5374" style="background-image: url(https://fbstatic-a.akamaihd.net/rsrc.php/v2/ye/r/pDlbZpaIRLH.png); background-position: 0px -8160px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; height: 16px; vertical-align: -3px; width: 16px;"><u style="left: -999999px; position: absolute;">wink emoticon</u></i><br />
It takes a lot of discipline to fit in your own practice, continue to study, read, learn, in order to offer space for the students you teach, for yourself, and for your family. It's much harder now with a baby and a 4 year old, too. And luckily I have a supportive partner in so many ways (emotionally, spiritually, financially...) to help this all work.<br />
This is why I only teach one public class a week. The rest of my teaching stuffs have been private prenatal session, special workshops or events, and my big love are my retreats!</div>
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<b><u>Word on retreats for all my fellow Yoga teacher mamas with tiny kiddos who want to make retreats happen:</u></b></div>
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-<b>Yes, my boys come along</b>. They are not part of the classes or any intimate moments (unless it calls for them, which sometimes the moment welcomes them), but they are nearby/included for meals and adventures.<br />
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-I feel it's super awesome and important that <b>while they are young and not tied down by school</b> that they are getting to experience travel, see their mama doing her work that she loves, getting a wide array of contact with all types of humans, and learning to be adaptable. When they are both over age 5, then I will most likely not be bringing them as much, and/or not leading as many retreats that require long distance, as they will need me home. So, I'm soaking it in now while I can and planning my retreats with care.<br />
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-<b>I let my retreat participants know that they will be along</b>. I'm grateful that my peeps are welcoming to the kid energy.<br />
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-That said, this is also why <b>I've developed my retreats in places that I've been to so many times</b>, that I know well and that I feel comfortable with. Less surprises. More people and contacts.<br />
On Nantucket, it's part of my husband's family and so there's usually always family around to help with the kiddos. In Iceland, my husband is always there too and we know what to expect with the kiddos (it will be Isak's 3rd trip soon!).<br />
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-I keep my <b>retreats small and manageable and I have a collaborator/co-teacher</b>, plus help in the form of my husband and/or a babysitter.<br />
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-<b>I breastfeed and am dedicated to this art</b>. I go as long as needed for my child and myself. SO my baby must come along for the ride! I didn't leave Isak overnight until he was 2.5 when I went to Mexico for retreat once we had weaned! With Gus still less than a year, it's a no brainer that my whole family would be coming with on retreats. In a few years, this probably won't be the case and so I savor it for now as stated in all reasons above. <i class="_4-k1 img sp_KzR5XM7-sC1 sx_4f1287" style="background-image: url(https://fbstatic-a.akamaihd.net/rsrc.php/v2/ye/r/pDlbZpaIRLH.png); background-position: 0px -8058px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; height: 16px; vertical-align: -3px; width: 16px;"><u style="left: -999999px; position: absolute;">smile emoticon</u></i></div>
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*In general, loves, know that all of us parents, whether yoga teachers or not, struggle during these first years with tiny babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. It takes much more discipline in your own practice and self-care to manage your time, much more attention to your partner and family as a whole, much more dedication to your art and work. I am the first to admit that I do not practice or meditate every single day. Do I aim for just a little something, yes. I try to fit in at least 5-10 minutes each day to breathe by myself, hold a yin pose, or do a few rounds of salutations. Does it always happen? No. But the mindfulness of over 15 years of practice and almost a decade of teaching remains in my spirit and I do the best I can. We all do the best we can. We do have extra responsibility during these delicate years and it's important to move slower, honor this stage, and release all of the expectations. Oh those pesky expectations. Many days my yoga ends up being holding my cranky baby while he naps because that is what works. Or holding my own cranky self in a long bath or a long savasana because that is what works. I learn so much in these moments and it can for sure translate onto the mat when you practice and teach.<br />
As my peer/friend, <a href="http://flyingyogini.com/" target="_blank">Nancy Alder</a>, says: <b>Parenting is Yoga</b>! For sure.<br />
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So, go get 'em Yoga Mamas!! Know yourself. Take on what you can handle, allow for mistakes and learning experiences, and have fun keeping up what you love and who you are.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 4 year old joining in for yoga.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTHlVNQMywM/VXhyuR4f6sI/AAAAAAAABZE/FVvg2mcFjc8/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTHlVNQMywM/VXhyuR4f6sI/AAAAAAAABZE/FVvg2mcFjc8/s320/IMG_0472.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes popsicles and ice cream are had just before dinner.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_7W_LkWW0vw/VXhyt902BtI/AAAAAAAABY8/dXjek5DPvJ8/s1600/IMG_0546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_7W_LkWW0vw/VXhyt902BtI/AAAAAAAABY8/dXjek5DPvJ8/s320/IMG_0546.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowing down on gorgeous days to nurse my baby and lay in the yard.</td></tr>
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Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-20858464430779319462015-05-13T21:33:00.002-04:002015-05-14T10:17:53.578-04:00What I put on my Skin<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've been asked recently more than once about certain products I'm using that are non-toxic and full of goodness. It's such a bummer that we have to be so vigilant about what's hiding in the products we use on our bodies and around house. Just like with the food we eat, what we put on our skin matters! Our skin is our largest organ and since most of us can't buy all organic clothing, all organic food, and all organic skincare all of the time for financial and other reasons...I still believe that we can do our best to try when we can. There are some products you might simply love and refuse to give up. Hey, it's your life and you gotta have fun and enjoy things sometimes. But, I encourage you to seek out information about those favorite products on EWG or elsewhere. See if you can lighten your load of gunky stuff entering your body and the ones you love as much as you can. It matters, truly. It became even more important to me once I was pregnant with my first child. Like I said, do what you can when staying aware to your skincare. It's all about finding a balance of it that works for you and your family and often takes some trial and error as everyone's skin is so different! So here are some of my favorite skincare things and information. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.pangeaorganics.com/jennfalk/bodycare" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pangea Organics</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This is an amazing eco-centric company founded by a guy who started out making his own soaps and selling them at farmers markets in Colorado. For a company that has grown beyond farmers markets, I believe in the work they are doing to make high quality skincare with purpose, with great ingredients, that are fair trade, and that work! I am happy to be an independent beauty ecologist with them (meaning, you can buy the products through me...see the link). I use the oily/combo skincare on my face daily, the lip balm, the body oil, and the soaps. If you're in Somerville, MA...you can try out the hand soap at <a href="http://www.bowstreetyoga.com/" target="_blank">Bow Street Yoga </a>where I teach, as I have it in the bathroom there. Or I can get you a sample at any time. My suggestion is to start by trying the soaps and lip balm. These are products the whole family can use and will give you an eye into what they are like. I feel so good having the soaps in every bathroom and the kitchen and that my kids use them. I even use the soaps and body oil on the baby. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.beautycounter.com/laurenmessinger" target="_blank">Beautycounter</a> (makeup)-- </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've now been using the Dew skin tinted moisturizer with spf from this company and I must say I'm in love with it. It's super light and blends right into my skin. It smells and feels great. Love it! I also got a lip sheer and I must say it's also fantastic. These two products are all I need for my spring/summer routine. You can buy them online through my friend Lauren's site through the link. Check out the info on this company adding to the natural beauty field out there. I don't wear a lot of makeup but when I do I like knowing that it's safe and lovely. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I also get things sometimes at Cambridge Naturals or Whole Foods if the mood strikes...like natural nail polish, mascara, or lipsticks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://shopfollain.com/" target="_blank">Follain</a>--</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This amazing store started here in Boston and now has 2 Boston shops, one in DC, and one on Nantucket! Plus, you can buy on the website. It's a one-stop shop for an awesome variety of organic and non-toxic beauty, skincare, haircare for women, men, and kids. I highly recommend. Some of my favorite lines there include: Shamanuti, Herbivore Botanicals, and Soapwalla. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.herbalrevolutionmaine.com/body/" target="_blank">Herbal Revolution</a>--</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The luscious amber-rose body butter is my favorite ever! It's amazing on my legs post-shaving. But I also used it on my huge pregnant belly and now on my postpartum belly still. In addition to this, I am a loyal customer of their teas, tinctures, elixirs. High-quality, good vibes from the earth everything. You can find them at Herbstalk this June!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.perfumetothepeople.com/" target="_blank">Perfume to the People</a>--</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Beautiful, delicious, interesting, supportive, gentle on the skin, loving smells and potions made with high vibin' energy by one of my favorite women and locally here in Cambridge, MA. Love, love, love. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">DIY-- </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I like making my own coffee-coconut oil-sugar scrub that I use in the shower. You can get ideas online or play around with recipes. Sometimes I add peppermint oil to it, too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You can try making your own masks for your face, or even take a class or consultation on crafting your own beauty products with my gal, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In person events related to this topic:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">--<b>Come to <a href="http://www.herbstalk.org/about.html" target="_blank">HERBSTALK </a>June 6-7 in Somerville, MA</b> if you want to learn more about all things herbal and buy amazing locally-made, herbal skincare from the marketplace!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">--<b>Thursday, June 11th in Cambridge</b>, I'll be at <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pangea-connects-grows-cambridge-ma-tickets-16565616204" target="_blank">Pangea Connects</a> with other </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Pangea Organics</b> supporters to share love and support for this wonderful company. Come have wine and snacks with us to learn more on a late Spring evening. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">--<b>June 19-23</b> is my <a href="http://www.yoginijennfalk.com/womens-nantucket-retreat.html" target="_blank">Women's Solstice Retreat on Nantucket </a>with herbalist extraordinnaire, Steph Zabel! We still have room open and we will be discussing more about such things, plus we will take a trip to the Nantucket <i>Follain</i> shop!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">xoxoxo Happy Spring-ing and healthy Skin!</span></span><br />
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Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-80448511344736900802015-02-18T13:51:00.000-05:002015-05-13T21:36:00.965-04:00ICELAND Retreat, September 2015<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">September 22-27, 2015</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Autumn Equinox Full Moon Retreat</b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Yoga::Herbalism::Art Inspiration</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>For creatives looking to connect with themselves, Spirit, and Nature, as one in the same, </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>under the guidance of </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.yoginijennfalk.com/" target="_blank">Jenn Falk</a> and <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph Zabel</a>!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>This retreat will overlap both with our shift into the Autumn season, and the year's most powerful Super (Full) Moon!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>As healers and life long friends, we first traveled to this magical land back in 2008. It is a soul home for us and we are honored to be able to share our knowledge of yoga and the plant world coupled with our enthusiasm for this beautiful country!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>This retreat is for all looking to tune into their creativity and for nurturing time spent in the Icelandic countryside next to the sea, lava fields, waterfalls, and a high vibrational glacier.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 16px;"><b>(The Snaefellsjokull glacier has been a never-ending source of inspiration for poets and artists from around the world. Indeed, more than a few people say they feel a powerful influence from the glacier and consider it to be one of the world’s seven most potent energy sources.)</b></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall Color in the moss</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from our hotel on the Snaefellsnes in the autumn</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snaefellsjokul glacier</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsKp267y-qs/VOStu67Y2vI/AAAAAAAABU4/jPUAg1M2z6o/s1600/IMG_2050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gsKp267y-qs/VOStu67Y2vI/AAAAAAAABU4/jPUAg1M2z6o/s1600/IMG_2050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our hotel for the first few nights--<br />
all photos by yours truly</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Jenn will lead daily yoga and meditation for all levels of practitioners. We will combine hatha, vinyasa, yin, and mindfulness techniques to bring our attention to our presence in every moment.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>This will be Jenn's 7th trip (3rd yoga retreat) to Iceland. It is truly her heart's home and she absolutely adores sharing it with friends new and old.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Steph will guide us through daily learning adventures with the herbal world. We will learn local flora on some hikes and plant walks, and also spend time crafting teas and learning about how to heal ourselves body/mind/spirit through plants.</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Limited to 10 people for an intimate energy.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue;">$2,950</span> per person (airfare not included)</span></b></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>small % of proceeds will be donated to Icelandic Environmental Conservation Group</b></span></u></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Included in the price:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>- 3 nights in double/twin rooms at Hotel Budir on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>- 2 nights in double/twin rooms at a B&B in Stykkisholmur, on the other side of same peninsula</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>-5 breakfasts and 5 two-course dinners </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>- Daily classes: 1 yoga and 1 herbal class on all days except for the transition travel day</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>- Iceland transportation: we will have an <a href="http://arttravel.is/?cat=9" target="_blank">Icelandic driver/guide</a> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>-entrance and towel to Blue Lagoon</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u><b>Not included:</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Airfare</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Lunches and Food Extras</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>**We have priced this trip for shared rooms </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>(2 friends wanting to share, or a couple). The $2950/person price means rooming with someone. </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>If you would like a private single room, the price will increase a bit. Be in touch and I will give you details. jpyogini@gmail.com</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">**Non-Refundable Deposits of $1,000 to hold your spot</span></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Itinerary:</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Fly overnight into Keflavik airport, arriving early morning of Tuesday, 9/22. (We will help you find your flights if needed, but the booking is up to you.)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>We will greet you at the airport, have breakfast there and get acquainted before heading to the <a href="http://www.bluelagoon.com/" target="_blank">Blue Lagoon</a> to rejuvenate for a couple hours after travel.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>We will head from there straight out to West Iceland (approx. 2 1/2-3 hour journey taking in the beauty of the land) to our gorgeous hotel on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. We will settle in and have a snack, then take time for a welcome meditation/opening ritual and short practice before our first dinner together.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>The next 2 days will be spent doing yoga, finding solitude in nature, hiking, sitting in meditation, learning about plants, journaling, eating amazing local food, finding adventure, inspiration and magic with the autumn equinox, breathing deep, connecting with yourself and one another...</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Friday morning we then head to the northern tip of the peninsula to Stykkisholmur, where we will move into to a lovely bed and breakfast/apartments. Here we will continue with similar energy. We will get to practice yoga in the amazing <a href="http://www.libraryofwater.is/landing.html" target="_blank">Library of Water</a> both days, soak in our own hot tub and/or use the town's wonderful swimming facilities, have more hikes and explorations, and magical classes on plants! Saturday night we will honor the Full Super Moon with ritual. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>On Sunday we will depart for Reykjavik for our last moments together as a group. We will take a special walking tour of the city with the fantastic <a href="http://www.iheartreykjavik.net/" target="_blank">I heart Reykjavik</a> walking tour! We will have lunch together and will close with a short meditation. At this point you can decide to stay on in Reykjavik to explore on your own (we will help you find lodging before the trip) or we can organize your departure back to the airport.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>**Please note that Icelandic weather can be extremely unpredictable. This means our daily activity for hikes or excursions may change last minute if conditions are limited. This is part of the beauty of the land and all participants will need to stay open to this possibility. Thanks!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Please be in touch with any questions or to hold your spot!! </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>email: jpyogini@gmail.com</b></span></div>
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Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-51374792548733719552015-02-02T16:32:00.000-05:002015-02-06T13:15:01.312-05:00Teaching Reflections<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Full Moon energy is always the time during the cycle of a month for reflection and realization. I recently realized it was 9 winters ago that I began my yoga teaching journey, after 4 years of practicing yoga. I remember those early days well and it's both felt like I've been teaching forever, and yet hardly long at all. These years have taught me so much! I'm truly lucky I found my passion at a young age, and I can't wait to keep growing older and wiser along with it. Here are some thoughts of what almost a decade of teaching yoga has taught me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-i am my own best guru, teacher, and guide. we need a teacher or teachers to provide us mentorship, inspiration, and support, but my intuition provides exactly what my deepest insights to my own body and spirit need.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-ebbs and flows are natural and real while doing what you love. just stay curious about inspecting the ups and downs, and stay present through it all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-making mistakes are keys to your future and your journey to being great. own up to them even when hard. some people might not take it the right way or understand when you do own up to them, but that's not about you. just stay honest and true to yourself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-if i help just one person feel better in their body, mind, or spirit, then i'm doing the work. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">it doesn't matter that i haven't taught to huge groups, or at big events. it doesn't matter to win recognition or be an ambassador for something. i used to think so some years ago because our society places value on such things and we can get trapped in that mindset as a limit of our worth.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i am my own ambassador of my unique magic to share the practice of yoga for what it is to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-i almost helped start a teacher training but my first son came instead. this was the path of higher learning i needed at that time--motherhood. and who knows if i will help lead a training someday. what i do know is that i've helped countless students who have walked into my classes feel inspired to become teachers themselves, or deepen their studies with a training. that is my privilege on this path and i am grateful to see so many thriving, as yoga continues to grow, grow, grow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-i've evolved as a teacher and student. as we learn more about the body, our minds, and how yoga effects us as humans, the way we teach must also evolve.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">at the same time, i'm still me. i still teach with the moon cycles and seasons, and i still care about energy and emotional states.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">allow yourself to grow and hold on to the things that make your teaching and practice YOU</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-i've learned how to monitor myself. how to be of care to myself in all aspects. how to keep my teaching and practice sustainable for me and my family. how to be interested. how to be compassionate, forgiving, generous, humble, grateful, energized, relaxed, empty, full, honest, joyful...and so on. i've been burnt out before and know how to recognize when it could come on. i honor that now and take the time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">like right now...as a mom to 2 littles, i know enough about myself that i can't teach a lot and still be the mom, wife, teacher, and creative that i want to be. this is my current cycle and the time will come again to bring things up a notch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-i've discovered and continue seeking what i'm passionate about as a teacher. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">i've learned that i love teaching to women of all stages. i love leading retreats in places i have a deep connection to because it makes for a transformative, deeper retreat. i love collaborating with other teachers. i love sharing parts of how i teach, practice, and live on social media because it forms a connection and builds trust. i love helping people love themselves and staying open myself about the fact that i'm always striving for the same. i love interesting music for class. i love lots of yoga styles and don't hesitate to bring them together when needed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-always listen to your body. just because you did something 9 years ago or 2 years ago, doesn't mean it's right for your body right now. we are meant to change, age, learn from injuries, go through pregnancies, or whatever else causes your practice to change. resist trying to push yourself through just to attain what you think is perfect. there is no perfect, there is only you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-pay attention to what you're good at. i'm both shy and friendly/outgoing. gentle and strong. quiet and loud. it always depends on the situation, the environment, the surrounding energies. this is part of my own makeup and it means that I excel depending on those things, and my current state of personality. we are complex beings, and when i try to be something i'm not, it doesn't work. students notice it and you will too. teach whatever and however you are meant to shine. this could look 360 degrees different than the next teacher that walks into the studio, and yet you might get some of the same students. that's the beauty of it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-try not to take things personally. because you're growing, learning, changing, and being you...people will come and go from your classes. they might have jived with you then, but not now with your new ways of sharing your practice and that's totally cool. often, you may find them coming back down the road or you yourself changing back to the old ways again at times too. it's all good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-take risks. i've learned so much when i've just tried something. maybe a new sequence idea, or new way of describing something in class. sometimes it may not work, but you have to find out. and with retreats...i knew that i could create a wonderful experience, so i just went for it. sometimes i've only gotten a handful of people but it's still worked and allowed me to learn so much. bottom line--just do it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sending Love out to all of you out there aiming to do what you love and continue pushing forward to achieve it!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong>"You may doubt it, but the Leo Full Moon has news for you: you are not a satellite, not a reflection of anyone else.</strong> You are the Sun, filled with your own light, golden and warming, spilling out around the edges when your guard is down. When you laugh, your eyes sparkle. When you speak from your heart, you’re thrilling to behold. Just look at you.</span></span></div>
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<em style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You are filled with your own light."</span></em></div>
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<em style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">by April Elliot Kent from www.mooncircles.com</span></em><br />
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photo by Cara Brostrom<br />
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Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-43765419020642935902014-12-11T13:15:00.003-05:002014-12-11T13:15:30.230-05:00Rejuvenating Sequence for the Mamas with littlesEarlier this week, my 16 week old fell asleep in his little bouncy seat around 7:00pm. My husband was playing with my 3 1/2 year old as they began to get ready for bath time. So I grabbed my mat and busted out a <b>30 minute practice</b> in the dim lights of the room where my baby was sleeping. Noise all around, fleeting time, achy shoulders and back from all the baby wearing that day...and a moment of energy that I knew I just couldn't waste. This sequence was what I practiced. It flowed out of my body naturally and also with my mind on the fact that the moon was in Cancer (my sun sign).<br />
So, mamas out there, if you get a moment like this, maybe test this sequence out and see how you feel. Nurturing Love to you all!<br />
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~Start in <b>tadasana</b> (mountain pose) at the top of your mat. Close your eyes and place your hands over your heart to check in with your current state and set your breath and intention for the moments of peace you have just now.<br />
~When ready, slowly fold to <b>uttanasana</b>. Stay as long as you like, or even do some shaking out in it.<br />
~After 1 minute or so in your fold, then step left foot back for a <b>low lunge</b> (back knee down). After a few breaths, then <u>lift arms up to the sky</u>. Stay stable in your feet-pelvis-low back (no sticking ribs and belly forward).<br />
~Now find your way to <b>plank pose</b>. Hold a few breaths (knees down if you need) and practice exhaling the belly button toward the spine to continue knitting your muscles back after having given birth. If knees aren't already down, then lower to supported pushup and go ahead and take a supported, steady push-up. Then end up on your belly and take a few breaths in <b>cobra</b>. Then exhale to <b>down dog</b>. Stay as long as you like to move and feel it. Then walk feet to top of mat. Come up to <b>tadasana</b>.<br />
<u>**Repeat on other side from uttanasana.</u> Step right foot back for low lunge…<br />
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~Once you're back in down dog for a few breaths, take a <b>1 minute child's pose</b>. Scan your body and breath.<br />
~Come back to <b>down dog</b>, then <b>plank pose</b>. Hold as long as you can. Then stay controlled to lower all the way to belly to <u>rest with arms stacked under your forehead</u>. Release tension by rocking head side to side over your hands.<br />
~When ready, take your <b>locust pose</b>. Rest for a few moments. Then try it again. Rest. Maybe one more time if you have it in you. Rest.<br />
~Now take a <b>yin-like sphinx pose</b> for about 1 min. Afterwards, shake your legs out and rest. Then find your way to <b>down dog</b>. From there, back to the top of your mat for <b>tadasana</b>.<br />
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*You may need to pause for a moment to rock the bouncer if baby is stirring. Ha! I had to do this a few times and luckily it worked.<br />
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~Fold to <b>uttanasana</b>. Step right foot back, keep right hand to the mat and lift your left arm high for an <b>opening lunge twist</b>. Keep that right leg strong and really breathe into the expansion that your breath allows to move through your torso and spine. <u>After a few breaths, drop that right knee down</u>, step the left foot out wider to the left and come to your <b>lizard lunge</b>. After a moment, maybe even twist to grab your back foot for a thigh-quadricep stretch (please listen to body as this might not be there for many of you). From here, move into your <b>half-pigeon pose</b>. (Move your left foot down and over to the right with your left knee out a bit wider than your left shoulder and hip. Right leg moving straight back out of hip, with hip flexors facing down toward the mat.) Take any variation of it that you like. Probably head down and supported. Stay as long as you need (probably 3-5 minutes).<br />
Then move to <b>down dog</b> to shake it all out.<br />
<u>**Repeat on other side from uttanasana.</u> Step left foot back…<br />
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~After you end up in pigeon on the new side for the full-length of time, then swing that back leg around to come to seated and then <b>make your way onto your back</b>. <b>Hug knees to chest</b> and take circles on back to rinse spine and back muscles and feel your hips and <b>take it all in so far</b>.<br />
~When ready, plant feet to the mat hip-width and place arms by your side. Lift pelvis up for <b>Bridge</b> pose. Take any variation you need and hold a few breaths. If this feels good (felt SO good to me), then <b>do it 2 more times</b>. Maybe a short wheel pose if it's calling you (I did my first one at this moment…which was my first one since giving birth, and it felt right. May not be right yet for many. Depends on YOUR body, your birth experience, your current state).<br />
~My baby was starting to stir at this point and I could hear bath time was almost over, so I took <b>savasana</b> for as long as I could (I think it was 3 min.) before both kiddos were in need of mama.<br />
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This practice helped change my mood, soften my nervous system from a current cold I've been battling, and help me move into a gentle place of self-love. It's a constant process. <b>Cheers to all you mamas for being you and loving so much. </b><br />
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www.yoginijennfalk.com for upcoming Prenatal, Mom & Baby, and Yoga just for Mamas sessions<br />
<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-56110832344382857592014-11-09T11:26:00.000-05:002014-11-09T15:33:37.899-05:004th Trimester:Post Partum Body Image and Yoga <br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now that I'm 3 months postpartum, I am so happy to exist beyond the pregnancy and feel at ease with how amazing it all is again to get to nourish a little being into this life. It is nice, however, to begin feeling at least a little tiny bit like my old self again. That said, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I told myself after looking back at my first postpartum experience that I wouldn't care about my pregnancy weight gain this time around. That I'm sure a year after birth, I'll look back at this time with gratitude for the experience and wonder why I ever cared. Well, that's true and all but the fact that I still have a good sized squishy belly and am still 2-3 sizes from my usual size is something that I'd say the majority of women face in the early months postpartum. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>It isn't a problem, it's simply a transition</b>. I have the cutest, healthiest little dude a mama could ask for. I am so loving up this special time and in no rush to speed it up, but it's also nice and helpful to other mamas out there if I open up about this stuff. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So in my quest to keep things relatable, and I suppose that's all relative...I am happy to share the final photoshoot (see previous post) with the brilliant <a href="http://www.carabrostrom.com/" target="_blank">Cara Brostrom</a> from our almost year-long adventure through my pregnancy experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I like putting this topic out there again, as I did after I had Isak, because I hear it from my mama friends, my sisters, and my mama students. I feel it's important to talk openly, as women, about every aspect of motherhood and this whole experience. The difference now is that <i>Instagram</i> is around and social media in general makes it easier for all sorts of body images to be shared. I love that platform just as much as the next yoga teacher </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(ha!) so I'm not hatin' on it, just trying to keep it real. We live in a society that puts a lot of pressure on moms in general, but the pressure to slim down post-baby in our culture can be extremely offensive and annoying. Even if you don't pay attention to media, many well wishers (I'm so guilty of this as well) will comment, "You look great!" after baby comes out. It's the first thing people say maybe because it's what they think we want to hear? And hey, maybe we do look great but there's much more at work behind the newly postnatal mama. I know people mean no harm and are probably genuine in sentiment, but per usual to our trained brains in this culture, <b>we often comment first to women on how they look</b>. It can be enough to send a new mama into spiraling thoughts about her appearance. It's something to try and notice and try to catch yourself on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How about,"Congrats on bringing life into the world, you amazing creature! What can I do for you?" or "You seem so natural as a mother!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Instead we get glances at our bellies like they should be miraculously flat again. I even had an acquaintance ask when I was only a few weeks postnatal, "are you expecting again?" Doh! To which I replied, "No, I just had the baby." The person then looked at my middle and said, "Oh, you look great!" Case in point...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Luckily, I have fantastic friends, a loving and supportive husband, and a sister going through it all at the same time that I can vent to weekly. I don't mean to perpetuate the topic, but when I see the majority of <b>postnatal yoga </b>images or yoga teachers showing off their advanced asanas and already toned bodies after baby on <i>Instagram</i>, or in books or on blogs...it's evident that that standard gets out much more than the flip side. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well, the reality is that most new mamas take time in losing the weight and take time to build their practice again. There are only a small percentage who can continue right back into arm balances and bikini wearing after the first few months. To them, more power to ya! It might be truly who they are and I have nothing against either of those things. I've been there...just not until a good year and a half to two years postpartum. And something tells me that's more of the timeline that most yoginis (teachers or not) can relate to. For many, and perhaps myself now after a 2nd birthing, baring skin in a bikini again isn't as much on my priority list. <i><u>I simply want to look as strong and radiant as I feel</u></i>. That could end up taking shape in a variety of directions and I know when I eventually get to that place again, I'll be okay with wherever I end up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You see, I didn't overeat all the time while pregnant (of course I indulged sometimes as those cravings you hear of can be no joke). I practiced yoga throughout my pregnancy (as you've witnessed in my photo journey here on this blog). I ate nourishing, mostly vegetarian meals full of variety, nutrition and flavors. I still gained 50 pounds just as I did with my first pregnancy. This was hard because I told myself that this wouldn't happen again, plus I felt like I was even more active this time around since it was Spring and Summer, but alas the pounds piled on. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(Just so you gain perspective: I am usually 120-125 lbs. on a lean 5'5" frame. I've always set exercise and nutrition as a priority, being a yoga teacher and former athlete.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I realize now that <b>this weight gain just might be what my body needs to grow another life</b>. My midwives continued not to care because I start out small and super fit and remained a different version of fit and healthy with no risks throughout my experience. My belly grew out to a huge status this second time that brought on lots of comments from passers by. I struggled throughout the pregnancy (again) with this new body but constantly tried to remind myself of the power and beauty I had because I WAS strong and I WAS beautiful, even as the body shifted again with another new human growing from it. Each passing day I vowed to love being big and probably the highest expression of what it means to be in one's feminine power! Heck, I even led a retreat in late 3rd trimester and modeled for a Prenatal yoga book! And I had a most beautiful birth. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now that the baby is out, however, I look into my eyes in the mirror and genuinely smile in love toward myself, yet try not to cringe at the rest of me while I continue day by day in the prickly transition of this very strange current body. This is very different than simply gaining weight. I mean, I grew a human! Gaining weight is part of the process. So I should be easy on myself. And trust me, I am many days. It's more that <b>once the baby comes out, it's so different than having the baby attached as a part of your body</b>. You've just gone through this incredibly profound experience and yet now all of a sudden physically you feel so far from yourself. People no longer comment on how you "glow" anymore. You look in the mirror and you see a tired woman who is still healing on every realm from the experience of birth. You put pressure on yourself about the added weight, even though you know you shouldn't. You don't feel even remotely sexy (that comes back, yes, but not right away), and you have absolutely nothing to wear. So for me, doing something for myself (like getting a haircut, or buying some new clothes and accessories) goes a long way. It varies for each new mama and definitely helps...but if the self-love doesn't come from within, then what good are those temporary things? This is where your mama tribe of friends (either online or in person) comes in. You know, the ones who are reading this and it resonates with them. It helps to have outlets of other goddess mamas to relate to. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This second time postpartum I feel has been even harder for me body image-wise even though I knew what to expect. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I lose the first 20 pounds within the first month. It's the next 25-30 that hang on for another few months to a year and slowly start to come off as I continue to breastfeed and get back into a regular routine of yoga, walking and exercise. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My belly got even more stretched, so the loose skin is more prevalent in my middle than after the first time giving birth, and though I can hold a strong plank, my core has a long way to go before it's toned. My hips and thighs are probably the biggest they've ever been from this experience. It's so strange to see myself in this new way in photos and in the mirror. I feel strong and able and I feel beautiful but </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">can only hope that some resemblance of "me" will arrive in the months to come. I'm</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">happy to have all that I do...as I said earlier, which is all that matters. I'm just so grateful to have another healthy baby.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> And so, isn't this part of our lifelong practice as yoginis, or just as humans? Letting go of the potential outcomes. Being ourselves. Finding beauty in every moment. Embracing imperfection, transitions, and all of the lessons put in front of us. This is all part of the work and I've been in the thick of it this autumn. The feelings are the same cycle I went through after having Isak, so I remember and breathe them out. Who cares if it will probably take longer this time around to shed the weight (not just physical) of the pregnancy? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Plus, I exclusively breastfeed, and though it's different for every woman, apparently it's actually better to lose the weight slower because then your toxic load (which we all have from environmental exposure...even if you pay attention to what you put in/on your body) isn't dumped as fast into your milk, and the baby will hopefully steer clear of that junk a little longer.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Please do read, <b><i>Breasts: a natural and unnatural history</i></b> by Florence Williams!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It takes at least the whole first month to 2 months to heal from the birth, and even more than that to find a rhythm with the breastfeeding (if you choose to do so). When you're a completely new mama, you might be overwhelmed with it all and exhausted. And when you already have another child, there's not a whole lot of other time to spend on oneself as the mama. You have to be really good at managing the time for self care (instead of cleaning or accepting every playdate) or good at delegating duties to your partner or family. This takes time to figure out, but once you do, it will be a game changer. I've been trying hard to carve out some yoga time for myself every week. Some weeks I've been getting in 3 or more (short) practices, and others just 1-2. But every day I do at least a down dog or other basic poses that will stretch out my overtired upper back and shoulders and find length from all the holding and feedings of the day. The pose I miss the most is savasana...so perhaps I have to get better at starting with that?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Really, all new mamas would probably benefit most from just doing savasana or a meditation every day instead of worrying about exercise or other practice. This is what I find I truly need, but of course there's the urge to want to move your body again! And start losing weight to feel great in your own skin again. At times I find myself overdoing it in that need to want to feel that resemblance of me, but then surrender I do. Luckily I know myself well enough now to just sit with my breath in some yin or restorative postures those times I really need it instead of busting out another vinyasa. More importantly, when I step on my yoga mat, I feel the same <b>me</b> as always. <b>In my heart space, in the poses, in the breath, I am me and always will be, no matter the size or shape. </b>I'm looking forward to continuing the task of simply treating my body with love and respect and embracing what that holds.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and baby Gus at 8 weeks post-birth, photo by Cara Brostrom</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-84874632712364694312014-11-08T13:59:00.001-05:002014-11-08T14:02:01.519-05:00Postnatal Yoga Photo Journey<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here I am around 2 months after birthing my sweet Gus. I'm in my home practice space where he and I share interrupted yoga time together of on/off nursing, giggle and smiling breaks, walking around the room breaks...before I get too hungry or tired and then the practice is done for the day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Soon enough, he won't be so teeny or nursing as much, and this stage will be gone. I'll love getting out to class more often (or at all), and the regular nap schedule (so one can hope) will mean a longer home practice. But this moment in time is one that provides such deep connection and brings a humbling aspect to humanity. I am so very lucky to get to be at home with him and experience it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To all of you 4th trimester mamas out there (whether now, in the recent past, or still to come), be as loving as you can to yourself now. Know that time brings healing, newfound confidence again, and much more wisdom than you ever thought you'd have.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All photos copyright <a href="http://www.carabrostrom.com/" target="_blank">Cara Brostrom Photography</a>. Thank you Cara for your unending support, friendship, and art as a fellow yogini mama. I am forever grateful.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 3 year old provides welcome interruption for a hug and hello</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom and Baby Yoga time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nursing break!</td></tr>
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Shirt by my friend <a href="http://anliliu.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">An Li</a> and pants from <a href="http://www.bepresent.com/store/home.php" target="_blank">Be Present</a>. </div>
Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-10310617016350308832014-09-19T14:34:00.002-04:002014-09-19T14:37:27.385-04:00Birthing for the 2nd time-- my boy August<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Dear ones,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
Giving birth to a human being is the most beautiful, scary, empowering, hard, intense, compassionate, and loving thing ever. I was honored to get to go through my second completely natural birth a few weeks ago. My second boy, August (Gus), was born on August 17th in Cambridge, MA.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">HIs big brother, Isak, was also born with the same midwives program over 3 years ago, and after our great experience the first time around, I knew that I had to do it with them again. Isak's birth was a long labor. No complications, but long and super tough. I held through it though, and you can read about it <a href="http://jpiciyogini.blogspot.com/2011/04/my-birth-story.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With that I must say I was a bit nervous this time around that it would take just as long...so I spent the summer working through my feelings surrounding birth, and trying to allow this time to be its own thing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The entire last month of this pregnancy was a warmup for the labor. I had many more weeks of symptoms preparing for birth than the first time around. It was hard to tell if this was just how 2nd pregnancy goes…the heat of the summer…or if labor was right around the corner. So, I took it day to day. That said, when my 39th week came and went, and then the 40th week came and started to go…I felt impatience all around and within me. My mom was already here from out of town to help with Isak and I was huge. My belly was able to stay stretch mark-free the whole time until that very last week. Ha!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I had a real day of false labor at the end of the 39th week (with the full moon) where there were regular surges and all…but after a night's sleep it went away. My boy decided he needed to wait until a calmer energetic period in the cycle came around. ;)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So, on Saturday, 8/16, I started seeing and feeling more definite signs that the time was upon us. My husband and I finished watching one of our favorite series (<i>Homeland</i>) that night, and then bam…the next morning at 41 weeks pregnant I had the "bloody show." I knew then that my baby was probably coming that day! This was exciting since my grandma gave birth on 8/17 to my uncle and her sister also gave birth that day as well. It was neat to be tied to her and her sister in that way, and through birthing energy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I started timing the surges around mid-morning and noticed they were around 7 minutes apart. They were just intense enough that all I had to do was take some deep yogic breaths and it would pass. I was still able to eat, talk, rest. It was a beautiful summer day, so I remember just being on our porch, in my sun-filled bedroom, watching something with my mom, having snacks…until I called the midwives in the afternoon to check in and let them know what was going on. They pretty much said it sounded like I could decide to stay at home if I wanted. That said, we put Isak down to nap and I just knew to tell him that I probably won't be there when he woke up. Sure enough, the surges started getting stronger and so my husband and I left in the late afternoon for the hospital. We arrived around 5:00ish. Things were intense where I had to do more work breathing through…but I wasn't debilitated yet. They did an internal exam and said I was around 3 cm and my cervix was close to being fully effaced. So I was on the verge of active labor…but of course it was hard to tell when it would fully kick in. So, they decided to discharge me. I was honestly pretty annoyed by that because I was there and ready to be there and start the process of relaxing into it all.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My husband and I went down to Darwin's cafe just outside of Harvard Sq. to get some food. It was really lovely out and the sun was starting to get lower, so we went by the Charles river and sat on a bench. I could only take 3 bites or so of a snack as the surges kept getting more and more intense. I was so glad my husband got to eat and we could enjoy the stream of light coming through the trees, the water, the warm air, and all of the people out exercising (though I did get some looks that were like…'um, is she in labor?'). I tried to walk a little bit, but when every few steps turns into a time to hug a tree for comfort and breath, well, I knew it was time to head back to the midwives.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
By the time we actually made it back to the hospital from all the starting and stopping of walking, it was around 8:00. The midwives were just changing shifts, but the same nurse (Jackie, you rock) was on call. She could tell I was much more into it by now. The new midwife on (Leila, you also rock) thought I was more like 4 cm now and my cervix was ready. I was the only midwife patient in labor at the moment, and I had requested the room with the birthing tub, so I got it! Yay, the palace was mine. :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Again, it took some time just for me to walk to the room. Once there I had to use the restroom, and I was in a lot of pain (yes, birthing contractions are painful, people! But they are also somehow manageable because us women are amazing). In the bathroom, my baby gave a strong kick or punch and my water broke over the toilet! Alright! I was relieved because then I knew it was really getting going. The birthing tub was then full and they helped me get in. I had only a towel placed over me in the water, which felt so soothing. Leila kept pouring water over me through each surge, and my husband was there to massage my neck and soothe me. Jackie found an iPod dock, thank goodness, and so with the lights very low and my playlist on…I was able to <u>tap in</u>. Snatam Kaur, Sigur Ros, Amiina…they all helped me through for the 2nd time in this birthing game.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As most women going for a natural birth do, I had so many jekyll and hyde moments. One minute I would say, "I can do this!" and then the very next I was, "I can't do it!" and so the time would pass. My team of Leila, Jackie, and David were perfect calm, soothing, supportive, positive energy to guide me toward meeting my boy. My friend, Cara, who has been photographing this pregnancy throughout each trimester was on her way to photograph the birth. I remember asking my husband if he had texted her! We weren't sure she'd make it on time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">At the nurse's suggestion, I changed positions in the tub, and after only 3 surges or so in that new position…the incredible urge to push came over me. Wow, to feel that sensation again. It's beyond describing, really. The best way that other mama friends and I can describe it is, PRIMAL. There is no stopping the sensation. <b><u>You are in that moment connected to every single thing on this planet.</u> </b>Nothing else will ever take me to that place in the same way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I then moved back to the little seat in the tub and the midwife got her water birthing gloves and gear on. They guided me in my breathing as each urge to push came through. I had no recollection of time at this point. I remember Cara showing up somewhere during this time…and I was glad she made it! But I was definitely in another place. When the baby emerged from my womb (after only 25 minutes of pushing!), it's the biggest sense of relief I will ever feel. It was the same as after Isak emerged. Just this overall feeling of, thank goodness it's over…and I did it. Phew! And WOW. My little August was placed right on my chest and I don't remember much else. Just looking at his beauty and feeling so at ease, finally, that all was well and he was here. The water was still warm and soothing and my husband and I were taking it all in. Around 20 minutes or so later, my placenta came out. I stayed a bit longer in the tub and then they started draining it and we were able to get out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Gus was 8 lbs 1 oz and 21 inches. He was perfect. I had no tears and all was in tact (again, yay for yoga!). I felt actually really good. He was born at 10:09pm, so within 2 hours of us showing back up at the hospital. That was more like it this time around!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
This last month since has been very full in every sense. Full of visitors, full of emotions, full of stress (postpartum hormones combined with having a 3 year old!), full of celebrating, full of ups and downs, but mostly so full of Love. It's a transformative time of the year, so it feels most fitting to have welcomed new life into the world and to slowly allow my own transitions to happen. I'm undergoing another shift in my spirit that I welcome and that will provide for new energy and wisdom to emerge as I move forward in the many roles I hope to continue to encompass.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">More to come…</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
Thank You to our families. Thank You to our dear friends who have provided such incredible meals, snacks, company and hugs. Thank You to my fellow new mamas all over the place who provided such inspiration and continue to. Thank You to my yoga friends and students all over the place who do the same.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br />
Lots of love from our family to yours,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Jenn</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM7FW2og0XE/VBwrFJu1I3I/AAAAAAAABJo/BPUseAb8I3I/s1600/IMG_7344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZM7FW2og0XE/VBwrFJu1I3I/AAAAAAAABJo/BPUseAb8I3I/s1600/IMG_7344.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First meeting of our sweet boy--<br />
photo by Cara Brostrom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Baia5GSZAc/VBwrFesh4kI/AAAAAAAABJ0/sciO2TQ32bQ/s1600/babypicifalk-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Baia5GSZAc/VBwrFesh4kI/AAAAAAAABJ0/sciO2TQ32bQ/s1600/babypicifalk-22.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Do you see his mudra in the right hand?--<br />
photo by Cara Brostrom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KJ2iVj5f9Xw/VBwrFsZ-yTI/AAAAAAAABJs/hp3c0bDWqZw/s1600/IMG_7482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KJ2iVj5f9Xw/VBwrFsZ-yTI/AAAAAAAABJs/hp3c0bDWqZw/s1600/IMG_7482.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gus at around 2 weeks old.</td></tr>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-812952614174194992014-08-09T20:25:00.001-04:002014-08-09T20:25:20.719-04:003rd Trimester- Prenatal Yoga Photo Series<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A few weeks ago I had the privilege to work with my friend, the talented <a href="http://www.carabrostrom.com/" target="_blank">Cara Brostrom </a>again! I hired her this year to document each trimester of this second pregnancy of mine through a Prenatal Photo series that I came up with (see previous posts for the previous 2 trimesters). So we teamed up for the 3rd time at <a href="http://jpcentreyoga.com/" target="_blank">JP Centre Yoga</a> in Boston to shoot. It was nearing the end of July and I was 36-37 weeks along! I've loved this project and look forward to creating my own teaching tool with it, plus hanging on to such beautiful memories. Thank you, Cara! And if you're pregnant, I hope you gain inspiration from these photos and your own yoga practice. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Stay tuned for a Post Natal shoot that we'll do in the next couple of months to come...</span><br />
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-66124635781968920052014-07-07T11:36:00.001-04:002014-07-07T11:38:27.300-04:00Summer Solstice Women's Retreat<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This year for my 2nd <b>Women's Retreat on Nantucket</b>, I teamed up with my oldest and dearest friend, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph Zabel</a>, for a combo <i>Yoga and Herbal focus</i>. We convened on a Friday evening through Tuesday morning over the true start to Summer weekend out at our quaint cottage in 'Sconset--Nantucket Island. A most glorious time of year to do so…as the roses of all kinds were abound! The Universe granted us with a most perfect long weekend of weather. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We practiced yoga out on the lawn each of the days, getting to breathe in the sea air and have bunnies and birds join in. My favorite combo these days is to lead a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Yin-Vinyasa-Yin</i> practice. I find, especially for a retreat setting, that this welcomes the much-needed self reflection and self love that everyone is searching for. What a special time it was for me to get to do so at being 8 1/2 months pregnant! I am so grateful to the group for trusting in me to guide them through not only the practices during this time but also the weekend of ritual, meditation, meals, conversation, fun activity, and friendship. I get so much joy and growth out of doing so that I can't even put it into words. This is the work that I love organizing and putting forth. Reminding everyone of their own magic (especially women!) and honoring the unique beauty within each of us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Huge thanks and shout-out to my oldest and dearest, Steph, for being my co-leader and our superb herbal guide! This was a dream for us to get to team up in this way and it's just the start of many more collaborative retreats and projects. Stay tuned!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Many more thanks to our local island friends that gave their time, energy, and love:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Claudia of <a href="http://ambrosianantucket.com/" target="_blank">Ambrosia Chocolates & Spices</a> (your chocolates provided an <i><u>experience </u></i>for all), Lindsey & Caleb of <i>Faraway Farm</i> (amazing yogurt and eggs, and picnic spot!), Sandy-<a href="http://www.thaimassagenantucket.com/" target="_blank">Thai Massage Nantucket</a> (a true healer of light), Kaity of <a href="http://www.fareisle.com/" target="_blank">Fare Isle Organics</a> (delicious preserves for our breakfasts, and bread & cookies), and my in-laws!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is the photo journey of some of the special moments and views. Deep bow of gratitude and love to the island itself, and to all of the Women and ALL of our magic...</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VjveHxxkwlk/U7qx1LZ4toI/AAAAAAAABCQ/zfksYBdQQTQ/s1600/IMG_6924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VjveHxxkwlk/U7qx1LZ4toI/AAAAAAAABCQ/zfksYBdQQTQ/s1600/IMG_6924.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roses!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu0tH6zbgts/U7qx0hhrKcI/AAAAAAAABCI/IxyixozaQc8/s1600/IMG_6936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu0tH6zbgts/U7qx0hhrKcI/AAAAAAAABCI/IxyixozaQc8/s1600/IMG_6936.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our cottage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bwe6o1A_gYg/U7qx014RXWI/AAAAAAAABCM/oAVbdciBFLc/s1600/IMG_6939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bwe6o1A_gYg/U7qx014RXWI/AAAAAAAABCM/oAVbdciBFLc/s1600/IMG_6939.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The makings of our altar for the retreat</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oype6aK5TOo/U7qx1ve3LCI/AAAAAAAABCU/nELxblEE72Q/s1600/IMG_6943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oype6aK5TOo/U7qx1ve3LCI/AAAAAAAABCU/nELxblEE72Q/s1600/IMG_6943.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First dinner together! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qC5gfAfrwsM/U7qx4FBMdWI/AAAAAAAABCs/raOXLDBmNuI/s1600/IMG_6945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qC5gfAfrwsM/U7qx4FBMdWI/AAAAAAAABCs/raOXLDBmNuI/s1600/IMG_6945.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Yoga practice together!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsLAVJJ0eI8/U7qx4u3XKBI/AAAAAAAABCw/4-YaeFaNM9E/s1600/IMG_6960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsLAVJJ0eI8/U7qx4u3XKBI/AAAAAAAABCw/4-YaeFaNM9E/s1600/IMG_6960.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plants from our first herbal class with Steph</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJItF4gKcDw/U7qx4AThz8I/AAAAAAAABCo/Vuf6fMW6qtc/s1600/IMG_6966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJItF4gKcDw/U7qx4AThz8I/AAAAAAAABCo/Vuf6fMW6qtc/s1600/IMG_6966.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaking in the evening light and welcoming the wisdom</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vm8CC7GJ7E/U7qx5V0bVJI/AAAAAAAABDA/4TZ45KnxLTo/s1600/IMG_6967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vm8CC7GJ7E/U7qx5V0bVJI/AAAAAAAABDA/4TZ45KnxLTo/s1600/IMG_6967.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We cooked with local, healthy ingredients throughout the retreat. Yum!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ro3dOhaEQY/U7qx6qj3tzI/AAAAAAAABDE/56AndxeqSHU/s1600/IMG_6969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ro3dOhaEQY/U7qx6qj3tzI/AAAAAAAABDE/56AndxeqSHU/s1600/IMG_6969.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The clouds and savasana.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EDQTwVgLWck/U7qx65RG8lI/AAAAAAAABDI/aQx9MnrpZGE/s1600/IMG_6973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EDQTwVgLWck/U7qx65RG8lI/AAAAAAAABDI/aQx9MnrpZGE/s1600/IMG_6973.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picnic on a friend's farm made for a perfect relaxing Sunday.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jzr_MgGZHSA/U7qx7ixIY5I/AAAAAAAABDU/_xF4JU8kVAg/s1600/IMG_6989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jzr_MgGZHSA/U7qx7ixIY5I/AAAAAAAABDU/_xF4JU8kVAg/s1600/IMG_6989.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph's 2nd class helped everyone create their own intuitive tea blends. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slPtXp5SamQ/U7qx8sYSKvI/AAAAAAAABDg/YSf9BdSgwpg/s1600/IMG_6997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slPtXp5SamQ/U7qx8sYSKvI/AAAAAAAABDg/YSf9BdSgwpg/s1600/IMG_6997.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final herbal class was learning about flower essences!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR5Oe2h5tP0/U7qx9hlc_HI/AAAAAAAABD0/xf_IiKw3eAs/s1600/IMG_6999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR5Oe2h5tP0/U7qx9hlc_HI/AAAAAAAABD0/xf_IiKw3eAs/s1600/IMG_6999.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We created a Beach Rose flower essence for everyone to bottle up and take home. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nb9vQHV6zao/U7qx9seWhzI/AAAAAAAABDo/0DzVBbm5Wso/s1600/IMG_7002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nb9vQHV6zao/U7qx9seWhzI/AAAAAAAABDo/0DzVBbm5Wso/s1600/IMG_7002.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our beautiful, special beyond words Solstice Ritual...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUGukRofp_o/U7qx9iBQdoI/AAAAAAAABDk/RozB-QS0pqA/s1600/IMG_7007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OUGukRofp_o/U7qx9iBQdoI/AAAAAAAABDk/RozB-QS0pqA/s1600/IMG_7007.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steph and I getting ready to lead the ritual.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83ZqytNLebg/U7qx-D4vSRI/AAAAAAAABDs/R5Q0y16RuSg/s1600/IMG_7011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83ZqytNLebg/U7qx-D4vSRI/AAAAAAAABDs/R5Q0y16RuSg/s1600/IMG_7011.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's be Goddesses always! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJEaMY3xNZM/U7qx_Si0-QI/AAAAAAAABEI/iTxfGV5Q4ZE/s1600/IMG_7012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJEaMY3xNZM/U7qx_Si0-QI/AAAAAAAABEI/iTxfGV5Q4ZE/s1600/IMG_7012.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our beautiful group. SO much love to you all. We will always remember the magic of this Summer Solstice 2014. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-60598203996099473982014-04-29T10:19:00.000-04:002014-04-29T10:29:17.479-04:00Prenatal Yoga-2nd Trimester Pics<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(All photos copyright Cara Brostrom Photography)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A few weeks ago I met up with the talented <a href="http://www.carabrostrom.com/" target="_blank">Cara</a> at JP Centre Yoga to shoot our next installment of my photo journey of this pregnancy! I'm going to be working on a project (maybe an e-book of sorts) about my experience with Prenatal Yoga and Pregnancy in general…so stay tuned for that in the year to come. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the meantime, I've been enjoying feeling a bit better in this trimester. Though, I must say that it all doesn't really feel that awesome for me in general. I like to be honest about my experiences and so, as profound, beautiful, and special that this time is…it's also really hard for me physically. Spiritually and mentally, I love this time! The honor, wonder, and joy to experience another life inside your own body is just beyond words. I look forward to the birth and honestly would take giving birth over having to gestate for 9-10 months any day! Truly. I just feel totally different and "off" than my non-pregnant state of physical being. I'm always curious and envious about the women who proclaim that they "love" being pregnant and feel amazing! Is it true that that happens? I take great care of myself but still end up with a slower pace, fast weight gain (oh the body image stuff that can come up), and overall feeling of nausea and strain on my body that I'm not used to. With that, I've heard that all these symptoms can mean a strong pregnancy. And for that I'm grateful. Taking it one day at a time now. Just about 3 months to go. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With this, I'm still moving through the grief with my whole family over the loss of my brother's daughter-to-be. A few weeks ago when my sister-in-law was at 4 months along, their little girl's heart stopped beating. It was her 2nd pregnancy as well. We were excited to be going through it at the same time. It shook the family and I actually found out about it just after filming this photoshoot. It sent me into lots of hard feelings and questions of the "why" and the wondering. So many women go through loss in this way during the childbearing years. It's astounding when this topic is brought up, just how many women speak up to their experience. And it's <u>all of you</u> that I know who have gone through something like this, that keep me so full of awe and gratitude for my own experience. Nothing else matters in the scheme of things but loving myself up during this time and bowing to each of you, bowing to Spirit, and to this miraculous process. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I honor all of you in this month of May ahead (especially, you, Melissa) as we celebrate Mother's Day. May you know how supported and respected you are. May you know the beauty and grace that you are through all of our births and losses as women on this journey. Om Shanti, Peace, Shanti. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">*Wearing my Sweaty Betty Harem style pants (so comfy and great for pregnancy), and Liz Lange for Target Maternity tank top</span><br />
<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-23695836801290354972014-04-08T15:48:00.002-04:002014-04-08T15:53:47.812-04:00Poem to all of my Sweet Sisters-to Women everywhere<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the final day of our <i>Art of Attention</i> Advanced Teacher Training with <a href="http://www.elenabrower.com/" target="_blank">Elena Brower</a>, we were asked to write, perform, feel into something that we wanted to share.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This was my contribution...inspired by my own experiences, by ALL of the amazing women in that training, plus ALL of the courageous and beautiful women everywhere. Especially to my own mama.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">----------------------------------------------------------------------</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If we are honest within, may we relish the quiet.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These transitions are our honor as women.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">They bring us to the edge to recognize our fear but our greatness even more.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">She says, <i>How can I be bold and still remain myself</i>?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is part of the challenge, but to that I say--</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Breathe It Out.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
There will always be those who mistake your compassion for weakness,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">your sensitivity for coldness,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">your open vulnerability for cowardice,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">or your love for competition.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Often it will be <i>your</i> mistake...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To that I say--</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Breathe It Out.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Some days you'll put yourself last.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You'll feel foreign in your own skin.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You'll confuse your beauty for ego...or let the past take over the current flow.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To that I say--</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Breathe It Out.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
For <b><i>WE</i></b> are the magical ones.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The ones who feel the wind and can sense its mission.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Who can see inside and accept our truths.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Who can birth and raise <u><i>boys</i> </u>to love and change the course of how women are received. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Who can remain vulnerable and open at the same time, in the same space.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<a href="http://www.yogajournal.com/wisdom/861" target="_blank">Vanda</a> says, <i>To be sensitive is to be alive.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is our path to freedom. This is what it's about.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">May we map ourselves and take it back. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So be it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And let's</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Breathe. It. Out.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>~Thank you, Elena, and my dear sisters along this path to pay closer attention to ourselves and to each other. </i></span>Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-51555293203811498752014-02-24T13:30:00.000-05:002014-02-24T13:30:31.023-05:00Prenatal Yoga- Take 2!<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Yes, it's true. I'm now just about 4 months pregnant with baby #2! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We are very excited to welcome this little one into our family this coming summer. For now, it's been a bit of a rough winter to get through the first trimester of fatigue, lots of up and down nausea, and just overall blah. I had been hoping this time around things would be different in that way, but it wasn't so. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I continue to keep pushing through and try to be gentle with myself during this precious time. This is why I am starting to taper my public teaching schedule already. I need time for myself to be in this moment, to spend more time with my family, to reflect on the advanced training I just received in NY with <a href="http://www.elenabrower.com/" target="_blank">Elena</a>, to work on my writing projects, and to get organized for this baby. It feels right to take a break now and I am fortunate enough to get to do so. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It's been a hard winter. Lots of snow, super cold temps, and the blahs of the first trimester have prevented me from usual upbeat energy to get out and about, to practice lots of yoga, and to enjoy the winter season. Instead I've spent many a days on the couch…and again I'm letting it be what it is/was. I feel like never before have I been SO excited for Spring than this year! I need the flowers, the green, the warmer breezes, the sun, and the ability to get out and walk about/play with Isak. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It was a great idea to host and teach a Women's Winter Yin Series at my home because I had something to look forward to, to honor this season, and to connect with other women during a time where I have been vulnerable. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the last couple of months, specifically, I notice once again how individual, special, and different each pregnancy is for each woman. This was my biggest lesson when I was pregnant with Isak. To have to let go of the vision I had in my mind that I would still look (plus the big baby belly) and do the same things as before I was pregnant, especially in my yoga practice. That was really not the case for me. You all know the story. Instead, I gained upward of 45 pounds and did mostly restorative, slow hatha, and yin. No inversions, no backbends. Just wasn't what my body and baby wanted or needed at that time. This time around, it's feeling so similar. My body seems to be built to need to slow down and relax and get nice and round when I'm growing another being! My hips have already gotten much wider (it's amazing), and my belly is poking out like I'm at least 5 months pregnant instead of 4 (so goes the 2nd pregnancy I hear). My muscles are disappearing under my skin, and my energy is just not what it was. So I must embrace it! I'm going to be documenting each trimester with my friend, Cara, to show not only my body and it's transformation, but also my experience with practicing yoga through each trimester. My goal is that maybe some women out there will identify with what I have to offer in this way. I plan to write about my experience and then turn it into something I can share with you all. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I get to teach prenatal yoga each week and practice and teach to mothers so often that it feels great to get to go through it all again and remind myself of all of our beauty and uniqueness. I am so very joyful and grateful to get to bring life into the world again! Even if it means discomfort on my part. Plus, any chance to release the control and discipline that I might be used to should be a welcome one. Even if it doesn't quite feel that welcome at times…I'm learning each day to love myself in this moment all over again. To be mindful when the negative thoughts toward myself or my body creep in, or when I get comments from others about how big my belly 'already' is. Becoming a mother requires such strength and resilience on a mental and emotional level way beyond physical strength. This is why yoga and meditation is so important during this time, and this is why I aim to be honest and open about my experiences in pregnancy and motherhood both on and off the mat. After all, when I look back at the first experience with Isak, it really did go by so fast. All of it. Pregnancy, and then the whole first year of his life. So it seems perfect now to learn from all the lessons I went through then and honor this life. It will only happen this once and then I have the rest of my life to get back to all else. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here's a special peek at my First Trimester shoot with <a href="http://www.carabrostrom.com/" target="_blank">Cara</a> (when I was 12 weeks):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All photos are copyright Cara Brostrom</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And this is my own little collage from when I first found out I was pregnant again, the 2nd month, and then the 3rd. Body transformation=beautiful. </td></tr>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-28245965548868146342014-02-06T14:41:00.000-05:002014-02-06T14:41:09.831-05:00Winter Wellness Playlist<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hi Loves~ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I created this for the Winter Wellness Workshop that I did recently with my gal, <a href="http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/" target="_blank">Steph</a>. I've been using it for regular classes and practice lately too, and well, it's simply nice for a winter day. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Amiina: Untitled 4</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Sigur Ros: Ofbirta</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Nils Frahm: Me</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Snatam Kaur: Ong Namo</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Daughter: The Woods</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Olafur Arnalds & Arnor Dan: For Now I am Winter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7. Bat for Lashes: Winter Fields</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8. Daughter: Winter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9. Olafur Arnalds: Hands Be Still</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">10. Olafur Arnalds (Nils Frahm Remix): For Now I am Winter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">11. Nils Frahm: Si</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">12. Sigur Ros: Var</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">13. Snatam Kaur: Long Time Sun</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For my <i>Women's Winter Yin Series</i> that I'm currently running, I've been choosing a different book for each practice and opening to a random page (oracle style) to gather the wisdom of the current moment. They have all so far been in alignment of solitude, acceptance, spirit, and inner consciousness. It's fascinating. Here's a gem from Pema Chodron's <i><u>Awakening Loving-Kindness</u></i>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"Learning to be not too tight and not too loose is an individual journey through which you discover how to find your own balance: how to relax when you find yourself being too rigid; how to become more elegant and precise when you find yourself being too casual." </span>Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-44686766260814568702013-11-25T16:18:00.003-05:002013-11-25T16:18:44.354-05:00Iceland Yoga & Fun Retreat Photo Album<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hi friends, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been a busy, busy autumn full of amazing growth and experience for me. Not only have I been immersed in <u><i>Art of Attention </i>Advanced Teacher Training</u> with <a href="http://www.elenabrower.com/" target="_blank">Elena Brower</a>, but I took a group over to my beloved <b>Iceland</b> in October. I'm feeling beyond blessed, and also ready for a slow winter ahead. Hoping to put some thoughts to the page soon, but for now enjoy the photo journey of our family-friendly adventure!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Much gratitude and love this week and always,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jenn</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Light. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Favorite. Icelandic horse, water, majestic mountain.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the amazing church at sunset in Reykjavik.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6UbS1r8g1ks/UpO1ojuwsfI/AAAAAAAAAwk/ORkQq1v6dUI/s1600/IMG_5106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6UbS1r8g1ks/UpO1ojuwsfI/AAAAAAAAAwk/ORkQq1v6dUI/s320/IMG_5106.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robots!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1EmgECirkQ/UpO1oS-_dhI/AAAAAAAAAwY/7I8FtCF5nh4/s1600/IMG_5116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1EmgECirkQ/UpO1oS-_dhI/AAAAAAAAAwY/7I8FtCF5nh4/s320/IMG_5116.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silliness from my boy and I.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7BWbwHlsDQ/UpO1rPxz2UI/AAAAAAAAAw8/hep5fSiJtbg/s1600/IMG_5132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U7BWbwHlsDQ/UpO1rPxz2UI/AAAAAAAAAw8/hep5fSiJtbg/s320/IMG_5132.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harpa Concert Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1nqcVu1VhY/UpO1p-D8GxI/AAAAAAAAAw0/tWtUqa1_nmk/s1600/IMG_5140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w1nqcVu1VhY/UpO1p-D8GxI/AAAAAAAAAw0/tWtUqa1_nmk/s320/IMG_5140.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing at Harpa.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jCf9s9c-z9U/UpO1rZTOvrI/AAAAAAAAAxA/X39q2YVtGmA/s1600/IMG_5150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jCf9s9c-z9U/UpO1rZTOvrI/AAAAAAAAAxA/X39q2YVtGmA/s320/IMG_5150.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reykjavik knows coffee and hot chocolate.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8ccCICCYqU/UpO1rbUMXqI/AAAAAAAAAxE/y-MmO4jN03g/s1600/IMG_5152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8ccCICCYqU/UpO1rbUMXqI/AAAAAAAAAxE/y-MmO4jN03g/s320/IMG_5152.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes for friends coming on my adventures!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvrJyQN8kfQ/UpO1uFW3xxI/AAAAAAAAAxU/EjCRpFDskUI/s1600/IMG_5153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvrJyQN8kfQ/UpO1uFW3xxI/AAAAAAAAAxU/EjCRpFDskUI/s320/IMG_5153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reykjavik beauty</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hms-XAWEX28/UpO1vPzaXbI/AAAAAAAAAxg/-bbtXSaMstI/s1600/IMG_5167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hms-XAWEX28/UpO1vPzaXbI/AAAAAAAAAxg/-bbtXSaMstI/s320/IMG_5167.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hraunfoss</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEgd_C3myuQ/UpO1ujBq67I/AAAAAAAAAxY/svKAs7TWJXQ/s1600/IMG_5171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JEgd_C3myuQ/UpO1ujBq67I/AAAAAAAAAxY/svKAs7TWJXQ/s320/IMG_5171.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some snow fall near the waterfalls</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSK3x57W9Jg/UpO1wZGkmPI/AAAAAAAAAxo/zgIbbD5NXYQ/s1600/IMG_5183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSK3x57W9Jg/UpO1wZGkmPI/AAAAAAAAAxo/zgIbbD5NXYQ/s320/IMG_5183.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga time with a mountain view.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1oi1HDo28mY/UpO1whXkKcI/AAAAAAAAAxw/ezvxU2cfI9Q/s1600/IMG_5234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1oi1HDo28mY/UpO1whXkKcI/AAAAAAAAAxw/ezvxU2cfI9Q/s320/IMG_5234.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our fabulous group! Love them so. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXY_jXzOlo/UpO1w-QW8GI/AAAAAAAAAx0/KsslReb1UnU/s1600/IMG_5235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GSXY_jXzOlo/UpO1w-QW8GI/AAAAAAAAAx0/KsslReb1UnU/s320/IMG_5235.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steam/Moss/Colors!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r3VVV3OeKaQ/UpO7_D8L5OI/AAAAAAAAA1M/GkUzvNo5XjI/s1600/IMG_0949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r3VVV3OeKaQ/UpO7_D8L5OI/AAAAAAAAA1M/GkUzvNo5XjI/s320/IMG_0949.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountains</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_551MclAbMA/UpO7_oxzBCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/cEbkqHd49wI/s1600/IMG_0982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_551MclAbMA/UpO7_oxzBCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/cEbkqHd49wI/s320/IMG_0982.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moss!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEkG4YTGUDw/UpO7_5Tc7iI/AAAAAAAAA1U/pOVmOEhZmx0/s1600/IMG_0995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEkG4YTGUDw/UpO7_5Tc7iI/AAAAAAAAA1U/pOVmOEhZmx0/s320/IMG_0995.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from a hike</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cIMT1YgwYQg/UpO8BM2d_II/AAAAAAAAA1g/v2eeZlimqsw/s1600/IMG_5195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cIMT1YgwYQg/UpO8BM2d_II/AAAAAAAAA1g/v2eeZlimqsw/s320/IMG_5195.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural Hot Spring</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnoNuJMejhw/UpO8Bsv0iqI/AAAAAAAAA1k/pj5oVD1YLSE/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnoNuJMejhw/UpO8Bsv0iqI/AAAAAAAAA1k/pj5oVD1YLSE/s320/IMG_5196.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beauty and Peace</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpcPznaAKAY/UpO8DyXb9PI/AAAAAAAAA2U/Pg9X9kaq1WM/s1600/IMG_5202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpcPznaAKAY/UpO8DyXb9PI/AAAAAAAAA2U/Pg9X9kaq1WM/s320/IMG_5202.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama/Baby Love</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoVmF-cFCts/UpO8C2IflYI/AAAAAAAAA14/v3AirsLAbqk/s1600/IMG_5230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoVmF-cFCts/UpO8C2IflYI/AAAAAAAAA14/v3AirsLAbqk/s320/IMG_5230.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stykkisholmur</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qY9vcDAeQAw/UpO8CJ3IvrI/AAAAAAAAA1s/qWXatXm0dus/s1600/IMG_5252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qY9vcDAeQAw/UpO8CJ3IvrI/AAAAAAAAA1s/qWXatXm0dus/s320/IMG_5252.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My loves</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M9n0Lu6CfUE/UpO8C5Q1piI/AAAAAAAAA10/GBrOUiSfCko/s1600/IMG_5259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M9n0Lu6CfUE/UpO8C5Q1piI/AAAAAAAAA10/GBrOUiSfCko/s320/IMG_5259.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Library of Water meditation</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRMxDv-bZj4/UpO8DSmz7mI/AAAAAAAAA2A/wGp0BNkmjN0/s1600/IMG_5263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRMxDv-bZj4/UpO8DSmz7mI/AAAAAAAAA2A/wGp0BNkmjN0/s320/IMG_5263.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yoga in the countryside</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wTPSjXqavMo/UpO8D44licI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/9ByM892uX44/s1600/IMG_5270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wTPSjXqavMo/UpO8D44licI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/9ByM892uX44/s320/IMG_5270.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soaking up the energy and filling up my Spirit!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S5lZbnBnoUc/UpO8WrYtspI/AAAAAAAAA2w/_eFktLh1Fxk/s1600/IMG_5272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S5lZbnBnoUc/UpO8WrYtspI/AAAAAAAAA2w/_eFktLh1Fxk/s320/IMG_5272.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYTtM1z232A/UpO8VQelpVI/AAAAAAAAA2k/VXH_bROR448/s1600/IMG_5296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IYTtM1z232A/UpO8VQelpVI/AAAAAAAAA2k/VXH_bROR448/s320/IMG_5296.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reykjavik Art</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9fbUlDn3ZI0/UpO8WGkkOhI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ApWjDWXBpNk/s1600/IMG_5304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9fbUlDn3ZI0/UpO8WGkkOhI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ApWjDWXBpNk/s320/IMG_5304.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new tattoo that I put a lot of thought into. Means Look at the Light, with the rune for the Sun.</td></tr>
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<br />Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-46058436059786530642013-09-29T15:48:00.002-04:002013-09-29T15:51:34.658-04:00Photo Journey of the Women's Retreat on Nantucket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This past Labor Day, I had an <u>intention of many years come to fruition</u>...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">leading a <b>Women's Yoga</b> <b>Retreat on Nantucket</b>! My colleague and friend, <a href="http://www.livethrivelove.com/" target="_blank">Carolyn Little</a>, joined me as a teacher for this offering and we are so very grateful and blessed to have led, experienced, and moved through an amazing long weekend together on the island. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPGkhvZeDdE/Ukh5PmG4xPI/AAAAAAAAAqs/xJEMkvzZqgo/s1600/IMG_4713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPGkhvZeDdE/Ukh5PmG4xPI/AAAAAAAAAqs/xJEMkvzZqgo/s320/IMG_4713.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from our cottage kitchen. <br />
At Wade Cottages, which happens to be where I got married!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-boZzoQHCk5I/Ukh5VE9YF7I/AAAAAAAAAq0/Mcgc8dVmAqc/s1600/IMG_4715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-boZzoQHCk5I/Ukh5VE9YF7I/AAAAAAAAAq0/Mcgc8dVmAqc/s320/IMG_4715.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our coffee table puja with native wildflowers picked for each participant. <br />
Plus, labradorite, rose quartz, amethyst, and citrine. <br />
And Ambrosia Chocolate truffles! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SdIPNR90C0s/Ukh5Z5NSVVI/AAAAAAAAArE/EGx1eVDDWeg/s1600/IMG_4719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SdIPNR90C0s/Ukh5Z5NSVVI/AAAAAAAAArE/EGx1eVDDWeg/s320/IMG_4719.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was so special to practice with such connection to the earth and all of the elements around us. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-04vOFHbVTZk/Ukh5Ym8Ly-I/AAAAAAAAAq8/yOSjkEiI6I0/s1600/IMG_4718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-04vOFHbVTZk/Ukh5Ym8Ly-I/AAAAAAAAAq8/yOSjkEiI6I0/s320/IMG_4718.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First practice on the bluff! A lovely day!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYNzXyY0vLU/Ukh5iH-UxrI/AAAAAAAAArM/jRaHAD6QbqY/s1600/IMG_4723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYNzXyY0vLU/Ukh5iH-UxrI/AAAAAAAAArM/jRaHAD6QbqY/s320/IMG_4723.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carolyn giving some nice energetic assist during savasana. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35DD1bmfd2w/Ukh5keMBvII/AAAAAAAAArU/tki61JtPxOo/s1600/IMG_4724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35DD1bmfd2w/Ukh5keMBvII/AAAAAAAAArU/tki61JtPxOo/s320/IMG_4724.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just over the bluff rests the sea.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAUZsv4ryMY/Ukh5nXA8_mI/AAAAAAAAArc/EvqFwdAfdiQ/s1600/IMG_4727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uAUZsv4ryMY/Ukh5nXA8_mI/AAAAAAAAArc/EvqFwdAfdiQ/s320/IMG_4727.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carolyn leading our first evening yin practice.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_VjYiakog8/Ukh5sdhDcNI/AAAAAAAAArk/fNDAFmHrS2I/s1600/IMG_4729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_VjYiakog8/Ukh5sdhDcNI/AAAAAAAAArk/fNDAFmHrS2I/s320/IMG_4729.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More vinyasa on Saturday</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ9yj_yi9AM/Ukh5w47tCTI/AAAAAAAAArs/PbF9zRdV00k/s1600/IMG_4732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eZ9yj_yi9AM/Ukh5w47tCTI/AAAAAAAAArs/PbF9zRdV00k/s320/IMG_4732.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice forward folding and internal reflection</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YdvPyXLvI8I/Ukh5yoz_UiI/AAAAAAAAAr0/0rZWmYjNY7U/s1600/IMG_4746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YdvPyXLvI8I/Ukh5yoz_UiI/AAAAAAAAAr0/0rZWmYjNY7U/s320/IMG_4746.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the yin practice I led Saturday night.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-8YmRNoatM/Ukh50yh_qBI/AAAAAAAAAr8/vvhkshEH7-4/s1600/IMG_4747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-8YmRNoatM/Ukh50yh_qBI/AAAAAAAAAr8/vvhkshEH7-4/s320/IMG_4747.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Light</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xPBlturkjNw/Ukh53l__oUI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/NcDPa2YMq2U/s1600/IMG_4749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xPBlturkjNw/Ukh53l__oUI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/NcDPa2YMq2U/s320/IMG_4749.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stairs to the sea from the bluff</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eiZLhl2ccjw/Ukh53RPxdnI/AAAAAAAAAsM/2m4bsKoT2eA/s1600/IMG_4751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eiZLhl2ccjw/Ukh53RPxdnI/AAAAAAAAAsM/2m4bsKoT2eA/s320/IMG_4751.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nantucket sunsets are beyond special</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chickens at Faraway Farm</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Faraway Farm for a Sunday picnic</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the gals picking apples from the ripening tree at the Farm</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqUB3YikVwU/Ukh7ZFPp-MI/AAAAAAAAAtw/uAJpsRwkY_A/s1600/IMG_4793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqUB3YikVwU/Ukh7ZFPp-MI/AAAAAAAAAtw/uAJpsRwkY_A/s320/IMG_4793.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The thoughtful and beautiful buffet table for our Farm picnic. <br />
Thank You so very much Lindsey, Caleb, and Claudia! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohUTgyRDPjU/Ukh7k7M-0tI/AAAAAAAAAt8/qD6KWusg-Lc/s1600/IMG_4794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ohUTgyRDPjU/Ukh7k7M-0tI/AAAAAAAAAt8/qD6KWusg-Lc/s320/IMG_4794.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A most delightful setting.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lKj82MMDOyU/Ukh7xVhoqtI/AAAAAAAAAuM/bHBVevQEne0/s1600/IMG_4797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lKj82MMDOyU/Ukh7xVhoqtI/AAAAAAAAAuM/bHBVevQEne0/s320/IMG_4797.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some sheep on the Farm.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43wT23zWzlU/Ukh7qzf8mHI/AAAAAAAAAuE/BMLYxwRVmGw/s1600/IMG_4803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43wT23zWzlU/Ukh7qzf8mHI/AAAAAAAAAuE/BMLYxwRVmGw/s320/IMG_4803.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade challah bread and quiche. All ingredients were local and/or from the farm!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vL6-36gouG0/Ukh722pHqYI/AAAAAAAAAuU/dgKBUZtn-dg/s1600/IMG_4804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vL6-36gouG0/Ukh722pHqYI/AAAAAAAAAuU/dgKBUZtn-dg/s320/IMG_4804.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sPS-1-4AEd4/Ukh7-_dVLgI/AAAAAAAAAuc/AV3_UzeoP4U/s1600/IMG_4808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sPS-1-4AEd4/Ukh7-_dVLgI/AAAAAAAAAuc/AV3_UzeoP4U/s320/IMG_4808.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying the afternoon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bWLrFjjnTp4/Ukh8VMrB8_I/AAAAAAAAAu8/4-iFPioJjMk/s1600/IMG_4812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bWLrFjjnTp4/Ukh8VMrB8_I/AAAAAAAAAu8/4-iFPioJjMk/s320/IMG_4812.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this place. Dear friends. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlOD1VBEGdU/Ukh8H7V_49I/AAAAAAAAAuk/gtTYUJ1a3dM/s1600/IMG_4813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlOD1VBEGdU/Ukh8H7V_49I/AAAAAAAAAuk/gtTYUJ1a3dM/s320/IMG_4813.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Claudia made our dessert! <br />
Sauteed spiced apples with cookies and creme fraiche! <br />
We were so lucky. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Atp7AbDnOk/Ukh8PAUMk5I/AAAAAAAAAus/inaUsFq2wIo/s1600/IMG_4826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Atp7AbDnOk/Ukh8PAUMk5I/AAAAAAAAAus/inaUsFq2wIo/s320/IMG_4826.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In memory of dear Watson, a most loving and wonderful dog. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fgB_YAv688/Ukh590YwlCI/AAAAAAAAAsc/2IkyzfMcOcU/s1600/IMG_4757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fgB_YAv688/Ukh590YwlCI/AAAAAAAAAsc/2IkyzfMcOcU/s320/IMG_4757.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We cooked dinner together every night! <br />
So fun to learn new things, have health-filled discussion, and enjoy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLK6CJnIqvQ/Ukh5-_6DhNI/AAAAAAAAAss/fG6YJafZ8SM/s1600/IMG_4758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLK6CJnIqvQ/Ukh5-_6DhNI/AAAAAAAAAss/fG6YJafZ8SM/s320/IMG_4758.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner by candlelight</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpUR31CxA-w/Ukh8U9zoAeI/AAAAAAAAAu0/SdEr4kbvMwg/s1600/IMG_4818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpUR31CxA-w/Ukh8U9zoAeI/AAAAAAAAAu0/SdEr4kbvMwg/s320/IMG_4818.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our last morning, Carolyn and I led practice together! <br />
It was sunny and playful. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XjW5ukfDhTY/Ukh6H9xIzEI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Q6CpXJiCCsQ/s1600/IMG_4763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XjW5ukfDhTY/Ukh6H9xIzEI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Q6CpXJiCCsQ/s320/IMG_4763.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome dancer's!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2dyRYVPe9g/Ukh6I0fuOLI/AAAAAAAAAs4/1g0rr5yJTQA/s1600/IMG_4766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U2dyRYVPe9g/Ukh6I0fuOLI/AAAAAAAAAs4/1g0rr5yJTQA/s320/IMG_4766.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Go Nell!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTyUtQjbz-Y/Ukh6JBM5LyI/AAAAAAAAAtA/to_EXe-FLHM/s1600/IMG_4764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTyUtQjbz-Y/Ukh6JBM5LyI/AAAAAAAAAtA/to_EXe-FLHM/s320/IMG_4764.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inversion play</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvhNS45t7j4/Ukh59xr5CxI/AAAAAAAAAsg/ObwlhmEdJyc/s1600/IMG_4760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rvhNS45t7j4/Ukh59xr5CxI/AAAAAAAAAsg/ObwlhmEdJyc/s320/IMG_4760.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goldenrod gave us uplifting energy and spirit. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4sQI0Ha1ebU/Ukh8U6QCy_I/AAAAAAAAAu4/0LUXJz0cl-I/s1600/IMG_4827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4sQI0Ha1ebU/Ukh8U6QCy_I/AAAAAAAAAu4/0LUXJz0cl-I/s320/IMG_4827.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our main crew<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">So many thanks and so much love to this very special island that won my heart ever since my dear husband brought me to it almost 5 years ago. It's been a blessing to have had so many life transitions at this place and for its energy to be lifting me and guiding me forward with each year. <br />Special, special love to Susanne & Jennie from Wade Cottages, Faraway Farm, Ambrosia Chocolate & Spices, the town of 'Sconset for hosting us, Carolyn for sharing in my joy of the experience, all of the beautiful participants, all of the local drop-in students for taking part, my generous and gracious in-laws the Falk's, and the entire island yoga community for good energy!</span></td></tr>
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Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2593079517689757887.post-82941142612616565252013-09-12T10:05:00.001-04:002013-09-12T10:05:08.199-04:00Summer into Fall Playlist<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://olafurarnalds.com/" target="_blank">Olafur Arnalds</a></u>: For Now I am Winter (Nils Frahm remix)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://www.sigur-ros.co.uk/kveikur/" target="_blank">Sigur Ros</a></u>: Rembihnutur</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://jamesblakemusic.com/" target="_blank">James Blake</a></u>: I am Sold</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXkc2GLPl6I" target="_blank">Olafur Arnalds & Arnor Dan</a></u>: Old Skin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sigur Ros: Yfirbord</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://www.americanmary.com/" target="_blank">The National</a></u>: Fireproof</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James Blake: Retrograde</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sigur Ros: Stormur</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The National: Sea of Love</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James Blake: Overgrown</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sigur Ros: Hrafntinna</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Olafur Arnalds: Only the Winds</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The National: Humiliation</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sigur Ros: Ekki mukk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sigur Ros: Var</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://juliannabarwick.com/" target="_blank">Julianna Barwick</a></u>: One Half</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">~You are breathing patiently; it is a beautiful sound.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is your life, which is so close to my own that I would not know where to drop the knife of separation. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And what does this have to do with love, except everything?~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Excerpt from <u>Mary Oliver's</u> poem, <i><b>Oxygen</b></i></span>Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08252669926846783869noreply@blogger.com0