Research in neuroplasticity shows that the brain and nervous system are continually shaped by repeated experiences. Just as chronic stress can strengthen pathways associated with survival responses, repeated experiences of safety and regulation can strengthen pathways associated with resilience.
In yoga, we speak of Sangha, a gathering of people who walk a shared path, who choose again and again to practice in a way that uplifts not only themselves but the collective whole. A Sangha is not defined by walls or geography; it’s defined by the steady presence of individuals who show up with curiosity, courage, tenderness, and a willingness to grow.
For students who have attended at least one of our Osteoporosis and Yoga workshops, we’re excited to offer a unique 7-session experiential workshop that blend Yin/Yang poses and movements designed to target specific fascial lines in the body.
In many ways, interoception is the bridge between our body and our mind. It allows us to notice sensations that signal our emotional states, physiological needs, and overall wellbeing. When our interoceptive awareness is well-developed, we’re more attuned to what our body is telling us, which can guide us toward healthier choices, emotional regulation, and even pain reduction.
Summer is a season of expansion - longer days, warmer nights, and a chance to open ourselves to the full and abundant energy. Summer invites us to embrace the vibrant qualities of the season: growth, activity, and celebration. Yet with all this outward energy, it’s easy to get caught in the busyness of “doing” and forget the value of “being.”
Summer is here with heat on full blast. This summer many are finding themselves in a comfortable position to travel again. Whether you hope to get a quick road trip to a beach or are finally able to take the long trip you planned two years ago, traveling can be stressful. As we prepare to travel we have to remind ourselves to be in the present moment and enjoy the process of travel. Yoga offers many tools to keep you grounded and in the present moment.
The news lately has been filled with tragic stories describing marginalized groups facing himsa (violence or harm). When we see injustice we might be compelled to react. However, when we react rather than respond, we might not act with ahimsa, non-harm in thought, word and deed towards all. Joan Halifax, PhD from Upaya Zen Center suggests we have G.R.A.C.E. Roshi Joan created this model for bringing compassion into interactions with others.
We need tools to reduce the intense negative emotions and return to a state of calm to promote clarity of what is true. What’s an easy tool to use? Slow Breathing with an Extended Exhale. For the month of June, you can practice slow extended exhalation using this Guided Extended Exhalation in our video library for free
Technology is changing our lives. We have the world at our fingertips. But the tool that helps keep us connected has a profound effect on our spine. Maybe you have images of humans evolving to slouch over a computer or perhaps you notice that you are looking down more often. Our beloved technology is affecting how we hold our neck and in response our spine health. The new norm of checking phones and tablets promotes us to spend more time with our shoulders hunched, neck flexed, head forward and chest withdrawn, a position that is sometimes called tech neck.
May is mental health awareness month. It is a time to actively engage in conversations about our struggles and triumphs related to mental health. According to NAMI, the national movement has sought to raise awareness about mental health, fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
There is some evidence that yoga may be helpful in reducing depressive symptoms. But yoga is not a cure. Yoga offers tools that supports your mental health because it promotes a lifestyle aligned to the four major dimensions of recovery.
As I was putting away mats and chairs after Jacob’s Optimizing Your Movement Workshop, I noticed a new sensation in my left hip. The awareness of new muscle fatigue made me laugh. During the workshop we spent focused time experiencing slow body movements connected to how the spine moves. This awakened stabilizing muscles of my hips and brought more awareness of how I avoid specific positions of my hips.
