7 Ways To Improve Your Mental Health!

There's been some misconceptions I've heard over the years about yoga. The number one comment is, "Oh I can't do yoga, I'm not flexible enough." It's really not that surprising to hear, especially now a days where most yoga teachers on social media, share pictures of themselves in very advanced and difficult postures.

However, yoga is so much more than the poses themselves and you don't need to be flexible to practice, rather you gain your flexibility by simply practicing. There are 100's of postures and truth be told, I don't even practice the advanced or difficult ones. I got into yoga initially for pain management, after a couple of car accidents, what I wasn't expecting, after I developed a regular practice, were the mental health benefits! Yoga includes the physical postures to stretch and strengthen your muscles. What is maybe not so widely known is that it's the deep breathing techniques throughout the practice that is the most important part of yoga. This releases tension in the body and at the same time calms the mind.

Yoga to me isn't at all about doing difficult poses, it's about listening to what my body needs and knowing how I will feel by just getting on the mat. And I always feel better after I practice! By simply breathing, stretching and focusing, you are doing yoga. All you have to do actually is just sit comfortably, focus on your breath and that's still yoga! Plus, you are still getting the benefits! You're expanding your lung capacity, allowing for greater oxygen intake, as you breathe deeply, while releasing tension in your body and sending calming signals to your brain. We incorporate the movements and the postures to ensure the energy continues to flow through your body, which helps to open up our energy centers along the spine. We can do so much for our health and wellness, by essentially doing so little.

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Join me online!

Click the Learn More button below for our special holiday promotion! Join me for live group Yoga classes online. With the power of technology, we will get together for a session through live streaming video. Just roll out your mat in the comfort of your own home and simply connect via my unique link address to join the class.

Much love, 
Laurah-Lee

New Announcement

Allow me to re-introduce myself, I'm Laurah-Lee, you may remember me as the one leading you through one of our classes, workshops/webinars or maybe you've found me through our social media or newsletters.  Glad to have you and thank you for being here!

I wanted to let you all know a little more about me, as I know you could have discovered me through various channels and possibly did not get a proper introduction. First and foremost I am a yoga teacher, I have been teaching for over 12 years. I am also a Reiki Master & Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Practitioner. I have been involved with those practices for about 8 or more years. I am all about learning, practicing and teaching alternative healing modalities. 

Todays blog features our new logo!  A representation of all that I love...the mountains, the sun, the forest and the ocean. I hike, do yoga, meditate, tap, breathe and love nature! The great outdoors and holistic healing have always been important to me. It all started with yoga and over the years I've become certified in other healing modalities, so to incorporate all of that, we've added 'Holistic Health with Laurah-Lee' to the logo.  Whether we are practicing yoga, meditation, breathwork or tapping together, we got you covered in a natural holistic way! 

We've been updating our website! You'll find our class schedule, blog posts - if you'd like to read our recent stories, ask us questions on the new chat feature, follow us over on the socials or hop on a 30 minute call with me to learn more! You can visit the new site here:

Join the Zoom Room

Did you know you can join me live online? With the power of technology, we get together for our Yoga sessions from my living room to yours! (Technology not included). No need to leave your house, just roll out your mat in the comfort of your own home and simply connect your device via my unique link address to join the class.

You can view the class schedule below. The times are listed in British Columbia (Pacific) & Manitoba (Central) time zones as that's where all my current clients live. I'm on the West Coast on Vancouver Island but originally from Winnipeg.

If you have been thinking about trying out yoga online, this week we will start opening up spots in our classes for 1 week of unlimited yoga during the month of December for only $25! This will give you an opportunity to try out different styles, whether you are interested in more relaxation, movement or a workout.  This offer must be redeemed between December 1st and 19th. As spots are limited, registration is required, simply click below to register or for more details and I’ll be in touch.

We all need a stable connection in our lives. The one thing that I and my lovely group of students are grateful for is to be able to connect weekly. 

We're looking forward to connecting with you soon! 
Stay safe and take care!

Much love,
Laurah-Lee

Fall Asleep Quickly

This weekend is the dreaded fall time change! They promised us last year that over here on the West Coast they were going to stop the time change moving forward but apparently not yet. I remember always thinking that the time change never really affected me but in recent years I realized it definitely did. 

A great habit to get into BEFORE the weekend arrives, which will hopefully help to make it less difficult next week, is to start going to bed earlier NOW so your body will get adjusted naturally.  Starting tonight I'm going to make sure that I crawl into bed by 9pm. 

Top tips for better sleep in no particular order: 

#1 Stay off your phone/electronic device at least an hour before bed!
(All that crap will still be there tomorrow.)  
#2 Read a book instead  Like a real one with a cover and pages made of paper. 😉
#3 Start a deep breathing practice. Inhale slowly for a count of 4, Exhale slowly for a count of 4. 😴
#4 Try a guided meditation. (You can use your phone for this just don't look at it).
#5 Do some gentle Yoga poses before bed. The best ones would be any forward bends which help relieve stress and calm your brain, by using the deep breathing method above. 
Examples: Child's Pose, Downward Facing Dog, Standing Forward Bend

I've included a Guided Relaxation for you to practice with which can be done seated or reclined if you are doing it before bed. 
 

Join me in my Zoom Room online!

Registration is now open for the new sessions that will start the week of November 2nd!

Join us for live group Yoga classes online! With the power of technology, we will get together for a session through live streaming video. No need to leave your house and make it to the studio in time! Just roll out your mat in the comfort of your own home and simply connect via my unique link address to join the class.

Contact me for more details or check out the class descriptions here ➜ ➜ ➜

Stay positive & bendy, 
Laurah-Lee

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The Truth About This Summer

The truth is...the last few months have been the most difficult for me. Summer has always been my favourite time of year, but since my health has been all over the place, this was the first time in over a decade, I didn't write my monthly blog for a couple months. This felt very strange as it's been such a part of my life for so long. Normally I would have been blogging about camping, hiking, farmer's markets, my garden or road tripping around the island. I had a hard time even being out in the sun and felt worse if I attempted to go out on a hike, so I actually spent vey little time outside. Then decided it best to take a temporary break from writing until I had some positive news to report.

I didn't want another month to go by without saying anything. When I sat down to write, I struggled with what to say. I've always wanted these posts to share positivity, inspiration and a glimpse into my life. However, I feel like these days I'm barely getting by. I realize that these days, most people are probably just getting by. I haven't felt like myself at all and almost feel like I’m disconnected.

The one thing that I have stayed committed to through out all of this is my daily yoga and meditation practice. During these last couple of months, my meditation practice has expanded even further, some times meditating several times of day. Today I woke up in a foggy haze, then noticed the sun was shining so I chose to meditate out on my patio. I don't even recall the last time I did that. It's been quite cloudy and rainy lately but this time in the sun was just what I needed to recharge and reflect.

I spent too much of my life, pretending everything was ok. It feels that especially now, we should all have an outlet to be open about how we are feeling. This is such a strange time in the world. I know that this will pass, it's just taking a little longer.  I feel like it's the start of a big shift and maybe that's what I've been feeling.  All the fear and negativity exploding, coming to the surface to be cleared once and for all. Like in the fall when the trees start losing their leaves, to let go before winter and start anew in the spring. We are letting go of what we no longer need to make room for all the amazing possibilities that will come from all of this. 

The one thing I am incredibly thankful and grateful for was being able to stay connected with my students. This was the only bit of normalcy for me. Thank you for joining me for online classes, workshops and sessions!

Join me online!

With the power of technology, we will continue to get together for another session of Yoga through live video. No need to leave your house and make it to the studio in time! Just roll out your mat in the comfort of your own home and simply connect via my unique link address to join the class.

My next session starts the week of October 5th. Check out the class schedule below:

Hope to see you on the mat soon!

Much love!

Laurah-Lee

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Summer Is Here!

I had started to give up on some of my plants in my garden but last week, things started to pop up thru the soil! There are now signs of carrots and I have one tomato! I’ve been enjoying some delicious salads with my lettuce, chives, mint and strawberries. Thankfully with all the rain we’ve had, I haven’t had to do much watering. As the weather starts to warm up and with sun in the forecast, I will have to be more on top of that! Other than getting back into a little bit of hiking this month, things have been relatively bleak and quiet.

As many of you know, one of my favourite mind-body practices is EFT, also known as tapping. This is a powerful, easy-to-learn and easy-to-use technique that can reduce stress or painful emotions associated with thoughts and past experiences. There are several meridian points on your body, that you just gently tap on with a couple fingers, while you repeat certain phrases.

Many of my students have been asking to learn more about this amazing technique, so I am organizing a virtual online workshop next month! So stay tuned for more details!

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Everything Happens For A Reason

This has been my mantra for quite some time. Yet, I've found myself saying it a lot more in the last couple of months. I don't know why the world is the way it is right now, but I've been thinking about what this all means in my life.

I just came across this quote from a docu-series I've been watching. "Whatever good or bad fortune may come our way, we can always give it meaning and transform it into something of value." Herman Hesse 

I feel like that is what I've been doing during the last couple of months, looking at all the ways to give a positive spin on all the negativity out there. It also helps that I stay away from the news. 
While most people have been adjusting to life in quarantine, I have been more focused on my health and well-being.

I love cooking, but during this time I have been baking and trying new recipes including healthy snacks. I have always been a little addicted to chocolate. It's the one thing, I have to have around. Thanks to an amazing chef and friend of mine, who introduced me to a couple delicious yet healthy recipes, I am a little obsessed with a couple of them and will no longer have to buy chocolate!  She's also shared a number of other recipes, that I am looking forward to making soon.

I have my patio garden started of tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, carrots, strawberries, herbs and mint. I am excited to be able to eat from my own garden!  I'm really hoping it turns out this year as last year was a bust. I know more and more friends are starting their own gardens this year for the first time.

I think the world is going to change significantly as people start to figure out what's really important to them and they look outside the box to find ways to bring more of that into their lives.  
What have you been up to? I'd love to hear! 

Join me online!

Join me for live group Yoga classes online! With the power of technology, we will get together for a session through live streaming video. No need to leave your house, just roll out your mat in the comfort of your own home and simply connect via my unique link address to join the class.

The new sessions start the week of June 8th. Check out our class schedule below:

See you there!

Patio Garden

Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chocolate Bark

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Strange Days

Strange Days indeed. How is everyone holding up? I'm still fighting off whatever it is that I've got...which has stuck around for over 6 weeks now!  On my video Doctors appointment a month ago, I was told that I might have a new virus that lasts up to 6 weeks, but now I'm guessing it's not that mystery virus. During my follow up appointment, I was then told it might be bronchitis or pneumonia.  It seems very hard to be diagnosed when I can't see anyone in person, so the Doctors are just guessing based on my many symptoms! Thankfully some have subsided, except for my throat, lungs and cough. I'm now waiting for a call from the hospital to set up an appointment for chest x-rays. Hoping that will be sooner rather than later and I'll be able to get some answers. 

Every morning I start my day with some yoga, breath-work and meditation. I've been thinking a lot about what is going on around the world. I still feel somewhat in the dark about it because I rarely watch the news.  Something that's better for my own mental health. I wonder how the world will change after this is all over. It feels like it's time for a big change. One that will be better for the planet and everyone around the world. My hope is that everyone is spending the time now to figure out what's most important to them. I know I sure have. 

I started baking again and have been experimenting with a lot of new vegetarian dishes. I was introduced to online grocery shopping last month and I don't think I will ever be shopping in store again. As someone who doesn't like shopping at all, this has been great for me. I've got a fridge and cupboards full of healthy foods, veggies and fruit. I even made myself apple cinnamon waffles today for the first time ever! 

In an attempt to get more sun out on my patio, I started reading out there on sunny afternoons. Well during a week that I had no internet when my modem decided to call it quits, I ended up going out there earlier then usual and since I was running a fever I had no idea what had happened until that evening when I was brushing my teeth before bed and noticed my face. Not to worry, I have a great therapeutic balm that worked miracles so I look normal now. 😉

LL’s Public Service Announcement: Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen!

Veggie Curry Dish

Apple Cinnamon Waffles

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Now everything has really changed over here!

I am not one that ever speaks about the news, but our world has changed significantly, in ways that nobody ever imagined! I know it is important to keep our spirits up and our sense of humour! I encourage you to do the same. However, I feel it is important to share this with all of you. Maybe you will take the announcements by the public health officials a little more seriously. For those not on the west coast, please don’t repeat our mistakes!

I put myself in self-quarantine, before it was even a suggestion by any officials and have been this way for over a week. My symptoms started mild but have continuously changed and progressed as each day passes. I am not worried about my health, as I am very healthy and I know my body is fighting it hard. Even still, since I live alone, I found it a priority to reach out to my family and friends to keep them in the know.

The good news in the midst of all of this uncertainty is that I have found, that by simply doing so, everyone has started to check up on each other more and more. I am receiving daily texts, calls and emails. What we are not doing is stressing while talking about what is going on out there. We are catching up, sharing stories, thoughts and feelings while making each other laugh! As crazy as all this is, it really feels like it is bringing people closer together, even though we are being advised with very good reason, to be socially distant.

I’ve heard how they are spending their days with their families, partners, kids or animals. From what I know, most seem to be really enjoying the time with those that matter most. Be grateful for those moments, as not all of us are as lucky to have anyone else in our home.

It occurred to me, only on day 4 of my isolation, that I have a patio space that I have not taken advantage of yet since I’ve been isolated at home. I spent time out in the sun reading for 30 minutes and noticed how much I needed some fresh air and sun! I’ve tried to spend a little more time out there, but it’s been several days now since I have been able to. We need to look for and be grateful for all the little things that we do have! I assure you there are many little things in your life to be grateful for.

It’s important in this time that we keep moving our bodies, breathing deeply to relax our system and focus on the positive. Stop watching the news all day or checking your phones every second for all the latest mis-information that’s being spread faster than the virus itself and take the time to focus on your self-care!

I have no idea what’s going on in the world at this moment and for right now, that’s a good thing. I’m focusing on doing all the right things, that I know of, to keep fighting this off. Considering my symptoms, I’m still healthy, I know and believe my body just needs time to go through the stages to finally kick this! Despite everything that’s happening all over the world, I feel more connected to the people I care about most, more than I probably ever have in my life. I know there are some scary unknown times ahead, but I trust that we will get through this and we will do so by pulling together…yet keeping 2 meters apart.

Be well, stay safe, much love!

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Things Are Changing Over Here!

But change is good...right?! If you've been reading my newsletters for awhile, you know that 2019 was a crazy busy and challenging year for me. I took an intense business/marketing course to learn how to take my Yoga biz online. Which was something I had wanted to do for years, yet I didn't feel I had the knowledge or confidence to accomplish this. In fact, I've since realized it was just fear and listening to my own limiting beliefs that stopped me. Wow did that course bring up a lot for me, mentally, emotionally and physically but I persevered! 

The only reason I made it through is because I had to continuously remind myself of my own self-care, whether jumping on my mat for a quick Yoga or meditation break or simply closing my eyes and focusing on my breath. As things got crazy, when I got overwhelmed and stressed or my fears would come up and cause me to become anxious, I would have to stop and do something for myself right away to get out of that head space.  It's not easy, there was a time that I didn't know how to get myself out of those moments. Thankfully at this point in my life, I have so many techniques to turn to when I find myself in stressful situations, that the hardest part is remembering to try one! I've gotten better at it for sure and much quicker to realize when I need to take that time for myself.  

One of these amazing tools is called EFT - Emotional Freedom Technique.  I've been practicing this for about 9 years and always had it in the back of my mind, that one day I would get my certification. As I used this technique more than ever over the last year to help me through all the challenges I was facing, I decided it was finally time and as of earlier this month, I am happy to report that I am now certified and offering sessions online! You can check out the “Online Offerings” on the top right hand corner of this page to learn more.

I’ve been asked to continue leading the hiking group this year. I’ll be doing two a week starting next month! I’m loving these hikes, nothing better than being one with nature! Here’s a couple pictures from our hike last week at Colliery Dam.

Colliery Dam

Waterfall @ Colliery Dam

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Happy Solstice!

I started off the day on a 2 hour hike at Ammonite Falls, with the group I've been leading since September. I've been so lucky to be able explore new and familiar trails with them for the past 4 months. Although, this was my third  time there, this was my first real experience seeing the falls, as I had only been there in the summer previously. Quite the different view! 

In order to get down to the bottom of the falls, you have to rope climb your way down. Which I had done once before, but now I have proof.  It was a great way to spend my morning. I followed up my hike with some Yoga, brunch, then a little self-reflection on these past 12 months.

The winter solstice is an opportunity for renewal, a shedding of bad habits and negative feelings and an embracing of hope amid the darkness of the season. Today was a reminder of all that I have accomplished over the past year. I'm looking forward to 2020!

Happy Solstice and to the start of a new year! 

Ammonite Falls

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Just Breathe

With all the changes and busyness in my life this year, I've had to remind myself many times to JUST BREATHE! Even though, sometimes it was harder or took longer to remember, as soon as I started to focus on my breath, I would instantly start to feel more calm and relaxed. Allowing myself those moments, meant I could get back at the challenging task I was trying to complete with a clear head and come up with alternate solutions as needed. If we continue to stay in those feelings of stress and overwhelm, it is so much more difficult or even impossible to see other options.

During one of my stressful moments this summer, as I was explaining to a friend what I was trying to accomplish with great difficulty, she said to me, "So it sounds like if you just did (this), it would solve the issue you are having." It was so simple, yet I couldn't even think about a possible solution as I hadn't taken that moment to clear my mind. Turns out her advice was exactly what I needed to do and once I had done that, everything else became so much easier! It's that time of year where the craziness of the holidays causes a lot of stress and anxiety for most people, just a reminder to take those moments to close your eyes and breathe deeply!

Linley Valley

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Enjoying Autumn

Where I come from there are basically two seasons, winter & summer. I never understood when people would talk about how much they loved fall since it always felt like we'd go straight from summer into winter. However, since moving to the west coast, i finally get it! So many beautiful colours.

A few months ago, I was asked to lead an established Hiking Group for the fall session. I immediately jumped at the opportunity, as hiking is one of my favourite activities. In the process I learned about a number of parks and trails that I didn't know existed. The added bonus was quite a few of those in the group, also attend my Yoga class together.

In fact as I found out this weekend, one of them joined my class several years ago and proceeded to share with her hiking group how much she had been enjoying Yoga with me, then over the years more and more of them joined my class too. So when I was asked to take over the group, some of them already knew me or they had heard a lot about me. We just finished our first session and about to start the second one of the season next week. It's been an amazing experience taking this group of 14 around town to various trails. I'm so grateful that I get to do this!

Beach Estates Waterfall

Departure Bay

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Fall Into Stillness

Now that the busyness of summer is over, it's time to get back into our regular routines. How often do you get grounded? No I don’t mean grounded as in the no TV or not being allowed to go out with your friends punishment. ;-) I mean taking a well deserved and needed moment for you to just sit with yourself, breathe deeply and meditate. I’m going to be honest with you here, I’m not the greatest meditator. I wish I could wake up extra early every day to meditate for 30 minutes, but I don’t. I typically do a short meditation at the end of my Yoga practice but it’s never as long as it could be. Recently, I had planned to work on one of my business projects all evening, I had been taking a break, due to feeling a little stuck in how to proceed. As soon as I started and got into my groove, I had a couple ideas come to mind, leaving me excited to continue working all evening. I was busy working away on my laptop, when all of a sudden the power went out! This would totally be my luck since I had been planning for the previous couple of days to work all evening. I decided to take advantage of this power outage, rolled out my Yoga mat instead and did a flow practice to keep the energy moving and the ideas percolating. Then I ended up having the best meditation practice I’ve ever had! I could literally feel the energy, like an electric current running from the base of my spine all the way to the crown of my head. I could feel my spine lengthening and as if my head was lifting higher towards the ceiling, stretching my neck. I could have become upset at my “bad luck” but instead I decided to do something for me.

This summer, after working really long days for quite some time, I finally decided to make a new rule. No electronics of any kind after 9pm. No phone, no TV, no internet and no computer. Instead I would use that time to meditate and get clear on anything that I needed in my life. How many times do you tell yourself there is something you want to do just for you, but keep using the excuse that there is not enough time in the day to do it so you keep putting it off? I did that a lot, until I started my new rule, where I couldn’t just sit down on the couch in front of the TV or scroll aimlessly through my phone, just wasting time! I realized we CAN make time for the beneficial things that we need, if we give up the activities that aren’t doing us any good to allow us more time. And you know what? It doesn’t have to be an hour of Yoga or meditation. It can start with just 5 minutes of simply deep breathing to ground yourself.

Hope you are enjoying the first official week of fall!

Laurah-Lee

Morrell Sanctuary

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Yet Again

I feel as though every summer is the same:
It's summer!
This is summer!
Where's summer?

This year has all been about implementing changes and overcoming challenges. With each, comes understanding myself better and learning to be patient, while trusting the process will unfold as it should. I know one day I'll get there and I'll be more ready once I do. One thing that has continuously grounded me, is spending time in nature and connecting to the earth. It doesn't matter how I feel when I get outside or on the trail, I always end up feeling open and excited by what's yet to come. Every day this month, I have spent time outside, where I'm reminded that I alone determine what will happen by my feelings, thoughts and emotions. You can either listen to the voice of your inner critic or you can ask yourself why you choose to believe anything negative it has to say.

I have been going full speed all year and now I am ready for things to naturally start to slow down this fall. It's that time of year, where our normal schedules resume and our regular routines fall into place. It is definitely time to recuperate all of my energy that I have expended so far. The simplest way I've found is to sit comfortably focusing on breathing deeply. Any thoughts that arise, notice them and continue to breathe. Do you want to buy into those limiting beliefs or do you want to create change by believing in yourself and moving forward? Once you can take a step back by focusing on your breath, you begin to look at a situation more clearly and it's easier to come up with a solution. Often times, the answer is right in front of you, but was buried by all the excess words in your mind. As I've moved along this year, facing many new challenges that have come my way, I have had to remind myself to take those moments to focus on my breath, meditate, go for a hike or do some Yoga. I always feel better as soon as I do.

Twin Beaches, Gabriola Island

“So here we find ourselves, baby, yet again
Here we find ourselves, baby, yet again”

— Black Pistol Fire

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Don't Ask Why

I'm sure most of us feel that we have such a short time to enjoy the beautiful weather, that we take on way too much at this time of year. Well, that's been the case for me. I got about a week into July before I had a complete breakdown, in a public place on top of it. There's been so much going on that in a moment of total overwhelm and stress, I lost it. I felt it coming, but couldn't stop it. Although, I somehow intuitively knew I just needed to let everything go. So bursting into tears is what happened. Thankfully, it only lasted about half an hour, but it was a rough day as this was first thing in the morning and I felt like I was on the verge of tears at any moment. I spent the next couple of days doing a lot of meditation and Yoga to help ground myself.

However, it was another good reminder for me, which is why I decided to share this story with you, that we all need to take time for ourselves!! It is so important for our mental health to spend even if it's just 5 minutes a day to do a quick Yoga session, breathe deeply, meditate, go for a walk or anything physical that will get the flow of energy moving properly throughout your body.

Even this morning, when I woke up, I started to think about all the things I had to do today. Next thing I knew I was feeling stressed and overwhelmed again. My day began by teaching two back to back classes. I had already started to feel better after the first class as several students approached me afterwards to tell me how much they enjoyed the class. As I drove away, I was so grateful for having these opportunities to help others feel better.

After arriving to my second location for my Yoga Hike at the park, since I had a little moment before class started, I decided to do some deep breathing and meditate. As soon as I started breathing deeply, off in the distance someone started playing bag pipes. I had to laugh as I was not expecting that to occur. About 5 minutes into my meditation I realized I was seated on the outskirts of a disc golf course, so I did a scan of the area to make sure nobody was out there. By my third look around, a group was headed towards me, as I jumped up to move to a safer area, a disc flew past me, way off the course and into the parking lot. One of the advantages of meditation is your intuition gets stronger, if not for that I may have been struck by a disc!

I spent the weekend camping in Tofino, one of my most favourite places to be on the island. We even discovered a new beach we had never been to before. I could spend hours walking along the sand, listening to the waves crash and watching those brave enough to enter the cold water! Though in my opinion there were not enough dogs on the beach. It's always been very therapeutic for me to spend time there.

Oh and if you checked in last month, camping out on my patio this summer has been a success! Only had to dry out the tent a few times. I haven't set it up again since I got back from Tofino but will definitely be spending more time sleeping out there for the rest of summer!

Hope you are enjoying yours so far!

Combers Beach

Long Beach

“So do yourself a little favor and don’t ask why
Truth be told it was all just a matter of time”

— Black Pistol Fire

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Happy Summer!

A couple weeks ago I went on my first camping trip of the year over on Newcastle Island. I’ve hiked around the island several times years ago and even paddle-boarded there and back twice more recently, but this was my first camping trip. We had a great time, as we shared amazing food, laughs together on a gorgeous weekend while telling the Raccoons, who were way too comfortable coming on to our site in broad daylight that they had to leave. They were damn cute, but we didn’t trust them!

Once I returned from that trip, I decided I was going to set up my tent on my patio and start sleeping out there every night, however the forecast kept calling for rain so I was waiting until afterwards, but the rain never came. So yesterday, I finally set it up. I was so excited to sleep out there and just as I fell asleep, I was awoken by rain. Of course, we would get rain on the day I set it up! Even though when I checked the forecast, there was no mention of rain. I quickly threw over the rain cover as I had kept it off in hopes of falling asleep under the stars and then decided best to sleep inside for the night. Well it was a good thing I did, as this morning it was pouring when I woke up and when I checked the tent, I discovered it was quite wet in there. No leaks that I could find and now it will take some time for everything to dry out, so camping on the patio has been postponed til further notice. I’ll let you know once I’ve given it a try.

However, I’ve already got my next camping trip booked in a few weeks, this time out in Tofino! Of all my trips out there over the years, this will be my first camping trip, so really looking forward to it! The best beach on the island is definitely Long Beach. I’ve walked along it many times before, walking through the sand or water. It’s an amazing feeling. Now that I think about it, I don’t think I’ve ever swam there. Maybe the weather needs to be really hot. It’s cold in there!

I’ve still been busy creating the content for my online course, that I was initially planning to launch this month. Instead I’ve decided to spend the summer on it, as the extra long days of working non-stop were starting to catch up to me. It was easier to do during the colder months and having something to continuously be working on indoors was great while it snowed or rained. Although, with this being my favourite time of year and as everyone’s schedules being busier now anyway, I’m allowing myself to enjoy summer, while working on the program without feeling the pressure of getting it all completed so quickly.

Outdoor Yoga has started for the season! One of my favourite things to do is practice Yoga out in nature, there’s nothing like being surrounded by the ocean and trees, listening to the birds and hearing the waves crashing around you to feel completely at peace and energized at the same time. I’m excited about spending more time hiking the trails and camping over the next couple of months. What are some of your favourite summer activities?

Newcastle Island

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Just Enough

Well somehow May is pretty much over and in another month, we will be half way through 2019! Is it just me or does each year fly by faster and faster? After an incredibly busy 4 months, my course has come to an end and although I still have a lot more to accomplish for my next phase, I decided to take several days off this week to decompress, relax and clear my head.  I learned so much about marketing, with new technology being introduced on a weekly basis, which caused some stress and overwhelm, but I made it and know that it wouldn’t have been possible without all the tools I’ve learned through Yoga! 

Over the past couple of months, I have had a number of new students join my classes and most of them have approached me after class to let me know just how much they have been enjoying my classes and noticed how much of a difference it has made for them both physically and mentally. This has made me so happy to hear, as it has been a reminder of why I got into Yoga myself and how much it has improved my own life!  As I am about to embark on a new adventure online, I am excited to be able to share my story and knowledge of the benefits of a regular practice to more and more people. 

This weekend I went on my first road trip of the year and spent the day with friends and one pup, hiking through Englishman River Falls.  We found some sweet river spots and excited to go back once the water warms up. I was the only one who didn't put my feet in the water as I was told it was FREEZING! But it was a gorgeous weekend and I had a long great sleep after I got back. Looking forward to more road trips and have two camping trips coming up too! This is my favourite time of year and love to get outdoors as much as possible. Hope you are enjoying the sunshine and warmer weather as well!

“We show, show just enough
Every tremble is a code
We’re not alone in the dark
This is how we assemble - Royal Canoe
”

Englishman River Falls

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Don't Be Afraid

I have been a busy bee, working 7 days a week for 12+ hours a day, while I am completing my course. Back in January, at a time where I was contemplating how to take my business to the next level, an opportunity fell into my lap that I had to immediately sign up for. I've mentioned previously that I had started a course, but I'm not sure that I have really explained yet what it is I've been so busy doing.  I started a Business/Marketing course to launch my company online. This will allow me to reach people all over the world, which is very exciting! This has been something, I have been interested in doing for some time now, but didn't feel I had the expertise and know how to accomplish this.  I can honestly say I have never worked so hard in my life, as much as I have been over these last few months.  As the program is soon coming to an end, I am looking forward to what is to come. This is something I am truly passionate about and eager to share my knowledge with others. 

I've been learning a lot of new software & online marketing strategies, all while overcoming some technology issues, many doubts and fears and creating my own program. Luckily, I have wonderful coaches to guide me along the way, not to mention the encouragement and support I have received from the rest of the group in the program.  It has been an incredible experience watching all of us overcome these same doubts, fears and challenges. We have all grown so much in the time we've shared together and watching everyone push themselves to go after their dreams has been amazing. This has been a new challenge for me and I can't wait to coach others in an entirely new way! 

I'm planning to launch the program that I am creating, Yoga for Mental Wellness, in June!  This course will include Yoga, Meditation & Emotional Freedom techniques to help with issues such as stress, anxiety, insomnia and depression.  It's through these practices that I was able to overcome my own Mental Health issues. The name of the program will most likely change as I have a few ideas I'm considering.  I'm offering this as a 12 week, (do at your own pace) course, which will include guided videos, as well as digging into your limiting beliefs and creating goals for various areas of your life. If you would like to learn more about this program, send me an email or join the closed Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Yogaformentalwellness/

This month, I started teaching a new style of Yoga called HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), which is designed to get our heart rates up, sweat a lot while sculpting & toning our muscles.  Everyone really enjoyed it! The idea is that in just a 20 minute HIIT Yoga session, you are working your muscles to the point of fatigue, to define, tighten, lift and sculpt your muscles. HIIT gets the heart rate up higher than Yoga can, in specific ways to optimize cardio, or how you intake and process oxygen. HIIT also can raise your metabolism up to 15% and burn calories and fat for 48 straight hours! I have been practicing this style since last year, while obtaining my certification, and am very happy with the results. It's a really fun practice as well!

“I’m telling myself
I’m doing enough
I scribbled my name
But I’m sick of this bluff
I’ve cluttered my brain
I’ve stared at the light
I’m sweating this shame
All through the night ”

— Royal Canoe "Don't"

HIIT Yoga Savasana Bliss

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77-76

After over 2 months of working non-stop, I got to enjoy a little time off this weekend to go to Vancouver to see my favourite Winnipeg band, Royal Canoe! It was a beautiful morning as I walked all the way down to the ferry terminal. I had stopped to take some pictures on route, then realized I was on a tight deadline and had to get a move on. As soon as I made it to the terminal, I immediately walked straight onto the ferry, as they had already started boarding. I couldn’t have timed it better!

I’ve never seen the ferry so packed, completely forgetting it was spring break! I finally found a seat and shortly after a gentleman approached me to ask if the seat next to me was taken. We ended up having a wonderful conversation for the entire ferry ride. It was one of those serendipitous moments. Early on we discussed that I teach Yoga and he is in the fire service. I had mentioned that I had always wanted to teach first responders, as I know how beneficial the physical practice would be, nevermind the mental aspect, for those in such a high risk and stressful careers. He completely agreed, I told him that I pass a fire station on route to one of my classes & that for the past several weeks, I kept saying to myself that I need to stop in to speak to the chief. Well, now thanks to my ferry seatmate “Captain Kirk”, I know the Fire Chief's name!

My course is coming to an end in a few more weeks, so it is back to non-stop work for me until the end. I’ve run into a number of technology issues over the last couple of weeks and have really been using my techniques to get through this. Which is great, as these are the same techniques I will be teaching in my Yoga for Mental Wellness course online . Just another sign that I’m on the right path! Also, I realized that Mercury is in retrograde until later this week, which happens to affect all electronics and technology so my issues should be over soon!

“I’m still afloat
Like a feather swinging low
Let the wind blow, let the wind blow”

— Royal Canoe "77-76"

Royal Canoe @ The Biltmore Vancouver

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Rayz

Last month, I mentioned that I recently started a few courses, but for the last four weeks I have been focusing all of my attention on one of them. This one involves completing a huge project and as I have a limited time in the course, my priority has shifted so that I can finish the program on time. The first couple of weeks were spent pushing myself out of my comfort zone while overcoming some fears and doubts. I was feeling rather overwhelmed and wondering if I made the right decision. However, I am lucky to have several inspiring and motivating coaches to move me along in the right direction. Already, I have felt an energy shift, new opportunities have opened up and I am now really excited about what’s to come!

One of the opportunities is that I starting teaching at a new studio and I was invited to join them at the Women’s Wellness Expo earlier this month. It was a great way to spend the day with my colleagues and meet some potential new clients!

A topic that has been coming up a lot in my conversations lately has been Mental Health. As someone who was severely depressed, for the majority of my life, I am really glad to see that more and more people are reaching out and becoming open to talking about this. I know that I would not be here today, if it wasn’t for the support I received from others.

I have created a new Facebook group, Yoga for Mental Wellness! It’s about time we all feel ok about speaking up about something that affects so many of us. We’ve all got a story to tell, why not share the journey together! https://www.facebook.com/groups/Yogaformentalwellness/

Watching all the snow!

“I checked the window
There’s nothing shining in the sky
Are we ever gonna get them rayz?”

— Royal Canoe "Rayz"

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