Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Monday, February 2, 2015
3 evening poses to do in bed
As a new mom I have dedicated hours of time reading about developing healthy sleep habits for baby. Advice on newborn and infant sleep is infinite, often times contradictory, and to me, exhausting. I have tried so many things and yet we still wake up every four hours, hence I am usually pretty tired and have no trouble falling to sleep early and often. However, all of this reading has got me thinking about some adults I know who have trouble settling in at night and getting to sleep (mom).
I know time is precious and a fifteen minute bedtime flow may not be realistic for parents of little ones or super busy people (who isn't these days). Here are three poses that feel good, can be done in bed, help the nervous system settle down.
Pose 1: Double pigeon. For people earlier in their yoga practice or with tighter hips traditional or reclining pigeon may be more comfortable. Getting deep into the hips feels really good to me and I really enjoy double pigeon.
1. Sit up tall and feel your sits bones root down into the mattress, spine stays long.
2. bringing your right shin parallel to the end of the bed, stack the left shin on top. Make sure the ankle bone is stacked directly on top of the knee. (You can place a pillow between the left knee and right ankle if there is space.
3. Flex both feet to protect the knees.
4. Take a deep breath in as you grow tall and lengthen the spine
5. On a long exhale begin to hinge forward from the hips any amount while keeping the sits bones rooting down.
Pose 2: Baddha Konasana
1. With sits bones rooting down and spine long bring the soles of the feet together, using your hands open the soles of the feet (like a book) towards the ceiling. If the knees are hanging in space you can place blocks under the knees or a rolled up towel/blanket to support them.
2. Keeping the back of the neck long (gaze neutral) begin to hinge forward with a flat back
3. Rounding the spine evenly, relax the head and neck, hold this pose for at least five rounds of deep inhales and exhales.
Pose 3: Viparita Karani
One of my favorite restorative poses, when I was pregnant I did not invert and would look forward to handstand / headstands in class so that I could take legs up the wall. This is great at the end of the day to take the stress of the feet and reverse the blood flow. You can get super fancy and take reclined baddha konasana (photo 2) with the legs up the wall, or head board in this instance.
1. Sitting sideways, scooch your hips to the edge of the headboard / pillows.
2. Slowly recline back on your elbows as you work your legs up the wall
3. Relax!!
(you can always place a bolster under your back/hips)
If you really want to find a way to fall asleep deeply and quickly, have a baby! Just kidding...you won't get to sleep through the night but you will fall right back asleep.
2. Make your room an oasis: get rid of distractions and clutter and FLAME RETARDANT CHEMICALS. Having a beautiful bed makes it inviting. Soft organic cotton sateen sheets and a cozy duvet always help. Our bed is so cozy it is hard to get out and getting in feels like a spa treatment. I have never had to purchase a mattress before, mine came with my husband, until buying a mattress for baby!
While doing research I learned about all the chemicals that come in our mattress and I can't help but think that all these flame retardant chemicals and vocs hinder health and are not good to inhale all night long as we sleep. I have mixed feelings about buying a new mattress-- ours is soo comfy so I will be nervous to buy a new one but, at the same time, I can't wait to get a more environmentally friendly, flame retardant and other VOC free, made in the USA mattress. Casper is a mattress company that does all that. Their website explains how they have replaced these chemicals. I am really impressed with their site and company and they are worth checking it out.
3. Take a nap: From all my baby sleep reading I have repeatedly seen "Sleep begets sleep", so you have my permission to take a nap! My mom swears she is not a napper, she has never been able to just take a nap--- well there is a formula I found in Healthy Slee Habits, Happy Child by Dr. Marc Weissbluth and scribbled mom next to it. "As adults, an afternoon nap is most refreshing when we take it at the time we are biologically most drowsy. Take the midpoint between the time when you most easily fall asleep at night (example: 10:00 p.m.) and most comfortable awaken naturally in the morning(example 8:00 a.m.) . Then, twelve hours from the midpoint is your best nap time (example 3:00 p.m.)" (Weissbluth 27). So be a little Spanish and take a siesta-- you will sleep better a later.
I know time is precious and a fifteen minute bedtime flow may not be realistic for parents of little ones or super busy people (who isn't these days). Here are three poses that feel good, can be done in bed, help the nervous system settle down.
General rule for sleep encouraging poses: fold forward and extend your exhales :).
Pose 1: Double pigeon. For people earlier in their yoga practice or with tighter hips traditional or reclining pigeon may be more comfortable. Getting deep into the hips feels really good to me and I really enjoy double pigeon.
1. Sit up tall and feel your sits bones root down into the mattress, spine stays long.
2. bringing your right shin parallel to the end of the bed, stack the left shin on top. Make sure the ankle bone is stacked directly on top of the knee. (You can place a pillow between the left knee and right ankle if there is space.
3. Flex both feet to protect the knees.
4. Take a deep breath in as you grow tall and lengthen the spine
5. On a long exhale begin to hinge forward from the hips any amount while keeping the sits bones rooting down.
Pose 2: Baddha Konasana
1. With sits bones rooting down and spine long bring the soles of the feet together, using your hands open the soles of the feet (like a book) towards the ceiling. If the knees are hanging in space you can place blocks under the knees or a rolled up towel/blanket to support them.
2. Keeping the back of the neck long (gaze neutral) begin to hinge forward with a flat back
3. Rounding the spine evenly, relax the head and neck, hold this pose for at least five rounds of deep inhales and exhales.
Pose 3: Viparita Karani
One of my favorite restorative poses, when I was pregnant I did not invert and would look forward to handstand / headstands in class so that I could take legs up the wall. This is great at the end of the day to take the stress of the feet and reverse the blood flow. You can get super fancy and take reclined baddha konasana (photo 2) with the legs up the wall, or head board in this instance.
1. Sitting sideways, scooch your hips to the edge of the headboard / pillows.
2. Slowly recline back on your elbows as you work your legs up the wall
3. Relax!!
(you can always place a bolster under your back/hips)
If you really want to find a way to fall asleep deeply and quickly, have a baby! Just kidding...you won't get to sleep through the night but you will fall right back asleep.
Other ways to support your sleep:
1. Lavender oil: diffuse it or rub it onto the soles of your feet ( I then like to rub my feet on my sheets so they smell good as well).2. Make your room an oasis: get rid of distractions and clutter and FLAME RETARDANT CHEMICALS. Having a beautiful bed makes it inviting. Soft organic cotton sateen sheets and a cozy duvet always help. Our bed is so cozy it is hard to get out and getting in feels like a spa treatment. I have never had to purchase a mattress before, mine came with my husband, until buying a mattress for baby!
While doing research I learned about all the chemicals that come in our mattress and I can't help but think that all these flame retardant chemicals and vocs hinder health and are not good to inhale all night long as we sleep. I have mixed feelings about buying a new mattress-- ours is soo comfy so I will be nervous to buy a new one but, at the same time, I can't wait to get a more environmentally friendly, flame retardant and other VOC free, made in the USA mattress. Casper is a mattress company that does all that. Their website explains how they have replaced these chemicals. I am really impressed with their site and company and they are worth checking it out.
3. Take a nap: From all my baby sleep reading I have repeatedly seen "Sleep begets sleep", so you have my permission to take a nap! My mom swears she is not a napper, she has never been able to just take a nap--- well there is a formula I found in Healthy Slee Habits, Happy Child by Dr. Marc Weissbluth and scribbled mom next to it. "As adults, an afternoon nap is most refreshing when we take it at the time we are biologically most drowsy. Take the midpoint between the time when you most easily fall asleep at night (example: 10:00 p.m.) and most comfortable awaken naturally in the morning(example 8:00 a.m.) . Then, twelve hours from the midpoint is your best nap time (example 3:00 p.m.)" (Weissbluth 27). So be a little Spanish and take a siesta-- you will sleep better a later.
Monday, February 10, 2014
An attitude of GRADITUDE: Five little things I was greatful for thispast week.
Of course a lot of the things I am grateful for this week helped to make this snow storm / artic temperatures cycle we keep going through a lot easier. I mean who knew that when we put Chicago at the top of our match list we would actually end up in Antarctica?
1. Kitty Litter-- Random I know, and no we did not get a cat (Chicago may have frozen over but hell hasn't yet--actually that is not true, I am slowly warming up to the idea of a kitten after playing with my sister in law's adorable and playful kitty). Kitty litter has saved us three times- just toss some under the tires and instant traction-- unstuck car!
2. Men with shovels-- I am UBER thankful for them this week. TWO times I was rescued by two different kind souls that helped shovel and push my car out when it was stuck and the kitty litter wasn't cutting it. Most of you are probably thinking, "why the hell do you keep trying to drive?" and I say to you it is negative twenty sir and I gots places to go and the CTA is constantly delayed.
Special shout out to Rick Frue-- hero numero 1
3. Agracept--have probably mentioned this one already, but heck it's true! It taste aweful but afterwards I always feel a little bit better.
4. Bloody Mary's-
5. My Lady Eileen wool hat- It's gorgeous and when I feel like blah fashion wise becuase I wear stained old uggs or wellies, a long black coat, and multiple pairs of pants on a daily basis, this beauty makes me feel cold weather classy for an instant winter fashion boost!
I will be so thankful when there is no need for SALT anymore-- I hate finding it everywhere all the time making things look dingy.
Friday, January 31, 2014
A well oiled machine: oil cleansing
After braving the cold (Chicago Lake Side Campus COLD & Wind) one of the things I look forward to most is washing my face. Weird, I know-- but this past week I began oil cleansing and it has been a relaxing and feel good part of my day.
I have consistently battled with breakouts since high school. When I was in high school I thought, "thank god that in college pimples stop" then in college I thought, "by the time I am in my mid-twenties breakouts should stop" and here I am at almost thirty and I still struggle with hormone and stress related breakouts-- and I know they aren't going to stop unless my hormones change or my stress is eliminated.
BUT
This oil cleansing has really improved the overall look and feel of my skin and it hasn't suffered a breakout-- I actually think it helped one mammoth pimple heal quicker. I have noticed scars are less visable and my pores look smaller. So how does this work???
Oil is not synonymous with greasy...Oil can actually remove (read clean) oil. So while typical store bought facial cleansers strip the skin of oil and leave it depleted and trying to rebalanced the oil, oil cleansing works with skin's natural oils to leave skin with a healthy oil balance.
Oils also contain no fragrance, many facial cleansers have fragrance in them and it is one of skin's top irritants by causing inflammation. Next time you are in the grocery look at the labels and see how many you can find that have no fragrance in them. Not So Easy!
There are different categories of oils- for example, castor oil is astringent and works to shrink pores and is great for combination to oily skin. It is an oil that cleans, softens, and shrinks your pores.
I have been mixing it with olive oil and want to try sunflower seed oil or jojoba oil after my next grocery store trip. These are the moisturizing oils and are used to thin out the thinker castor oil. Castor oil alone can over dry your skin--you can play with ratios and after a week of a ratio you can alter it based on your skin's reaction.
For my combination skin I am using 2 part castor oil to 8 parts olive oil
dryer skin increase the olive oil to 9 parts and decrease the castor oil to 1 part
for oily skin increase the castor oil to 3 parts and the olive oil to 7 parts.
Below are the steps to follow:
Gather your oil and a wash cloth-- I had used most of the castor oil in this bottle for castor oil packs and so I was able to mix the two oils in this bottle. Use a wash cloth that you don't care if it gets a little messed up.
2. Gently massage the oil mixture onto your face (upward circular strokes are best).
3. I then let the oil sit for a minute while I do something else like brush my teeth, q-tip, wipe down the counter--whatever.
4. Wet the washcloth with hot water, some people lay the wash cloth over their face for a moment, I haven't done this yet. Using the wash cloth gently wipe upwards, periodically re-wet the wash cloth.
5. After I have wiped my face I splash it with some cooler water to close up the pores.
6. During the day I leave just like this-- the skin is moisturized and soft, at night I have continued to add my moisturizer and eye cream. I am a glossy thing when I climb into bed.
After a week of doing this my skin feels great--if I suddenly breakout I will add a comment to this post, but overall I have been really pleased with oil cleansing. It is natural, affordable, and effective.
My one concern is castor oil-- I was unaware, before doing some research, that Castor Oil, from the castor bean, when being processed exposes the workers to ricin which causes grave health issues. There is work being done to eliminate this harmful process. I am looking further into NOW Castor Oil and it's processing. In the future I might try to find a substitute for castor oil in the cleansing until a less harmful version is made.
If you have tried oil cleansing or are going to try it let me hear your thoughts on it!
Enjoy!
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Five Little Things
With winter in full swing- and in Chicago it has gone past that to absurd- I have become extremely thankful for the simple things that allow life to be a little easier. And my number one stop for ease when shopping / preparing food is Trader Joes. We have one pretty close, it has a parking lot, and I can get a weeks worth of groceries for about $50. This past pay schedule I didn't recieve a pay check so cash was a little tight and I had to budget more than normal. This week we lived off of Chili and veggie burgers, oatmeal, and peanut butter balls / cookies.
The temperatures have been dancing around 0 to -20 this week, so as expected our heater is working hard and the air is dry. I am loving this humidifier- the one night we forgot to turn it on before falling asleep I got a bloody nose.
Numero 3- a broom! I know this sounds like a silly thing to be thankful for but you learn to appriciate these things when you don't have one. After we first moved into this apt. I asked the Mr. to pick up a broom for me during his trip to Ace. He came home with a hand broom because it was cheaper--requiring crawling on the floor while cleaning it. Ugh. I almost bought a full sized one last summer until I remembered I was on my bike. Biking in Chicago can be scary enough without doing so with a broom. I purchased a cute little one at Marshall's a month ago and our floors look fabulous. I love my full sized broom it's so easy.
Pan Away and Peppermint Oil were my home made Icy Hot this past weekend. I slept funky and woke up with a sore neck on Sunday, layering on these two oils led to some relief.
My Eddie Bauer Parka- this thing is serious. My body is never cold- even while walking into 40mph wind gusts that provide a balmy -30' sensation. I need to buy down gloves and boots and I will be set. Also- they restuff the fluff for their coats- Life Time Guarantee!
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Dry Skin Destroyers- Take that winter!!
While I love the snow and the coziness that winter can offer, it can also bring about a plethora of discomfort. Before moving to Chicago, where it is winter or at least dry for about five months, we lived in New Orleans, a sauna for five months and still humid the rest of the time. My skin and body were not used to the dry and itchy conditions last winter. This year I have a few tools that have helped me fight wrinkles, bloody noses, and dry itchy skin.
I have had a few melt downs this winter about the discomfort that blasting the heat brings on, these melt downs were followed with a full body slathering in coconut oil (including the inside of the nose).
I am pleased to introduce Destroyer numero 1: Cocount oil
In Ayurveda there is the practice of Abhyanga which is a daily oil massage. I have somewhat adapted this practice to combat my winter skin. Before getting in the shower use an oil- coconut, sesame, or other specialty massages- and gently warm it up. Apply it all over the body without rubbing it in too much. After the oil has a chance to absorb a bit into the skin begin massaging it into your skin in a circular motion making your way all over. Instead of wiping it off with a towel as some methods encourage I hop right in the shower.
This practice, besides hydrating the skin, helps improve circulation, release toxins, calms the nerves, and if done at night can lead to a deeper sleep.
For a further explanation this page does a great job offering an in-depth guide to Abhyanga.
2. Star Flower Skin Care Products
 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| In the winter I apply this morning and night. In summer just at night. Smells divine. |
 |
| Thick and luxurious skin cream |
SO..because of the dry air I began to convince myself that I was developing deeper wrinkles around my eyes...I took it harder than I thought and caved and bought a Retinol A product. I was so disappointed and rather convinced that my wrinkles looked way worse while using the product. I have been using Star Flower Products for the last three years and love them ALL. Piper from Essential Elements is my go to for all skin care and holistic dealings. I told her of my new eye wrinkles and she sent me over a sample of the Gold/Lavender Face Cream...I'm OBSESSED. Around my eyes I double it up on top of my Skin Dance. I can't put it all over my face because I am likely to break out and Skin Dance Serum totally takes care of my face and neck without breakouts.
The rose gold lip balm... stays on, feels amazing, smells good, have I mentioned it feels damn good. It can double for wrinkles, cuticles, and just dry anything.
And while I love slathering my skin in smell good feel good products, Piper reminded me that hydrating form the inside is just as important.
3. You are what you eat--eat fruits full of water and hydration
I have made sure to load up on green smoothies and coconut water. Drinking lots of water is key to having beautiful skin and not feeling like a raisin.
4. Humidify the Air
I received this adorable little humidifier for Christmas and have felt a lot better since. It is great for skin care, reducing nose bleeds, and a better air quality.
I think it looks like a little smurf. It is important to clean the water and basin so that you don't put toxins and all that collects there back into the air.
These four little tools have helped me feel more comfortable this winter.
Saturday, January 18, 2014
"So what do you eat?", the social side of a dietary restriction
This January marks one year of my eating a non-ovo, non-lacto, pescatarian diet. Those labels pretty much sum up my eating habits, to put it easily I eat seafood but other than that follow a vegan or plant based diet. By now most family and friends know that I don't eat meat and some get it all together--then there is my adorable father who cooks something and then asks afterwards if it's okay that he used chicken broth.
Needless to say my dietary lifestyle choices have led to some challenging situations. I have had to walk out of resturants after looking at the menu, bring my own food to dinner parties, having to request that we eat elsewhere when with a group of people, and the sure to come dinner conversation about "So what do you eat?" and the why's. It is highly likely that new and interesting situations will continue to come.
What I have learned over this past year-
So, why do I eat this way?
It started about three and a half years ago when I cut out dairy to help me shed some extra pounds, I really didn't eat dairy for about two years and when I started again I just felt terrible afterwards. So for me cutting out dairy wasn't hard-- I have developed an aversion to it.
My husband's explanation to others about why- "She watched a documentary." I did, two in fact. I had done a good bit of research before hand about plant based diets and part of that research included the Forks Over Knives documentary and Vegicate. After learning about the China Study and meat consumptions connection to cancers, diseases, and the environmental impact of consuming meat I wanted to make changes.
My family has a large history of cancers, colon included, and heart disease so if I can easily cut out meat from my diet than why not. I never really enjoyed cooking or eating chicken or pork. So I loaded up on veggies, fruit, whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
I learned that meat consumption and meat farms are one of the largest causes of deforestation in the amazon and of increasing our carbon footprint. I am the daughter of an environmental engineer and a super recycling mother, I was destined to be an Eco-conscious tree-hugger.
And lastly yes-some of what I saw in Vegicate bothered me in regards to animal processing.
This last year I have physically felt great and am really happy with my choice. I understand it is not for everyone and no- at times it is not easy. For example traveling to New Orleans or Montana is hard while going to California, Portland, or Colorado is so exciting. I have been able to do it with the help of some awesome bloggers and have found some incredible recipes that carnivores crave as well. As this post is getting long I will have to post about my favorite resources and recipes that I have found.
Needless to say my dietary lifestyle choices have led to some challenging situations. I have had to walk out of resturants after looking at the menu, bring my own food to dinner parties, having to request that we eat elsewhere when with a group of people, and the sure to come dinner conversation about "So what do you eat?" and the why's. It is highly likely that new and interesting situations will continue to come.
What I have learned over this past year-
- Always check the menu online before going to a restaurant and/or call ahead to see if they can prepare something without butter etc.
- When RSVPing to a dinner or event kindly let the host know that of the restrictions and offer to bring a dish to share
- Take people up on their offer of providing you with a separate dish a dinner-- everyone feels way more awkward when you do as you sit there not eating.
- Always keep a bag of nuts, trailmix, or bar in my purse.
- When I am going with my husband (or a friend) to a party they have always come through for me letting the host know about their pain in the rear guest.
- When hosting always ask if there are any dietary restrictions. In a city full of soy free, gluten free, lactose free, vegetarian, paleos, and vegans it is nice to be able to accommodate as many people as possible. Pot lucks are always a great option because people will generally bring a dish they can eat.
So, why do I eat this way?
It started about three and a half years ago when I cut out dairy to help me shed some extra pounds, I really didn't eat dairy for about two years and when I started again I just felt terrible afterwards. So for me cutting out dairy wasn't hard-- I have developed an aversion to it.
My husband's explanation to others about why- "She watched a documentary." I did, two in fact. I had done a good bit of research before hand about plant based diets and part of that research included the Forks Over Knives documentary and Vegicate. After learning about the China Study and meat consumptions connection to cancers, diseases, and the environmental impact of consuming meat I wanted to make changes.
My family has a large history of cancers, colon included, and heart disease so if I can easily cut out meat from my diet than why not. I never really enjoyed cooking or eating chicken or pork. So I loaded up on veggies, fruit, whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
I learned that meat consumption and meat farms are one of the largest causes of deforestation in the amazon and of increasing our carbon footprint. I am the daughter of an environmental engineer and a super recycling mother, I was destined to be an Eco-conscious tree-hugger.
And lastly yes-some of what I saw in Vegicate bothered me in regards to animal processing.
This last year I have physically felt great and am really happy with my choice. I understand it is not for everyone and no- at times it is not easy. For example traveling to New Orleans or Montana is hard while going to California, Portland, or Colorado is so exciting. I have been able to do it with the help of some awesome bloggers and have found some incredible recipes that carnivores crave as well. As this post is getting long I will have to post about my favorite resources and recipes that I have found.
Monday, December 23, 2013
My Silver Lining: a lesson in trusting where you are
The month long hiatus of blogging is now coming to an end. For the last few weeks my top and pretty much only priority has been school and finals. This past semester I was teaching the full load of 2 courses as a grad. student and taking three classes--just when it feels like I will never get all the papers written and others graded, the holiday parties start and somehow it all gets done. During finals week I was able to attend a small private yoga class sponsored by Zico coconut water, taught by Kathryn Budig and held at the Centered Chef in Chicago.
Before attending, I had no idea who Kathryn was, but now I am rocking a mad girl / yogini crush on her. She wrote the Women's Health Big Book of Yoga and is the babe in the Yoga Toes ads, amongst other sponsors. Throughout the practice and breakfast Kathryn continued to make the point of trusting where you are and knowing that it is exactly where you need to be. One of my favorite quotes from her that day was about finding the place where you are not standing still but not pushing forward either, but still making progress. In the midst of all craziness and when things aren't how you want them to be, it is extremely hard to trust that it is exactly where you need to be--- this got me thinking.
2013 was off to a rocky start and by rocks they might as well have been the Rocky Mountains-- or at least that's what I thought. I considered leaving graduate school on more than one occasion, but looking back I am glad I didn't because it was exactly where I needed to be in order to be where I am now- And dang-it I really like where I am right now.
I had begun to hate Spanish, after the semester ended I would shudder when I heard people speaking Spanish on the street where before I had loved it ( I have now gotten over that). I have come to loath writing (part of the reason I blog is so that I can begin to like it again), it is hard when how you write rather than what you write is what you are constantly criticized for and graded on. I learned that a Ph.D in Spanish was not at all what I wanted anymore (maybe Anthro or LA studies--but never Spanish Literature). Amongst other obstacles, I learned a lot about myself and began to turn to yoga as an escape and sanctuary. Base-line, my negative graduate school expierence has continually led me to a deeper yoga practice.
My schedule of teaching Spanish and graduate classes has allowed me some amazing opportunities that working full time would not have. For example, the class with Kathryn Budig would have been unavailable to me if I were teaching full-time or working a 9-5 job. I would not have had the amazing experiences I had volunteering on Mondays assisting the special needs students. I had a summer break that gave me the time I needed to go away and do my yoga teacher training. Work exchanges have connected me to wonderful teachers on Wednesday and now Tuesday mornings. On Thursdays at 3:00 I have been able to teach a community yoga class. Graduate school has given me an amazing schedule that has permitted me to dive head first into the Chicago Yoga scene.
I know I continually talk about how much I can't wait for grad school to be done, in all honesty I will be pretty sad about it. I love learning and being a student, but even more I love the path that graduate school has led me down that has brought me to where I am now and continues to allow me to participate in the amazing Chicago yoga community. That is my graduate school silver lining and my lesson in trusting I am exactly where I need to be.
Before attending, I had no idea who Kathryn was, but now I am rocking a mad girl / yogini crush on her. She wrote the Women's Health Big Book of Yoga and is the babe in the Yoga Toes ads, amongst other sponsors. Throughout the practice and breakfast Kathryn continued to make the point of trusting where you are and knowing that it is exactly where you need to be. One of my favorite quotes from her that day was about finding the place where you are not standing still but not pushing forward either, but still making progress. In the midst of all craziness and when things aren't how you want them to be, it is extremely hard to trust that it is exactly where you need to be--- this got me thinking.
2013 was off to a rocky start and by rocks they might as well have been the Rocky Mountains-- or at least that's what I thought. I considered leaving graduate school on more than one occasion, but looking back I am glad I didn't because it was exactly where I needed to be in order to be where I am now- And dang-it I really like where I am right now.
I had begun to hate Spanish, after the semester ended I would shudder when I heard people speaking Spanish on the street where before I had loved it ( I have now gotten over that). I have come to loath writing (part of the reason I blog is so that I can begin to like it again), it is hard when how you write rather than what you write is what you are constantly criticized for and graded on. I learned that a Ph.D in Spanish was not at all what I wanted anymore (maybe Anthro or LA studies--but never Spanish Literature). Amongst other obstacles, I learned a lot about myself and began to turn to yoga as an escape and sanctuary. Base-line, my negative graduate school expierence has continually led me to a deeper yoga practice.
My schedule of teaching Spanish and graduate classes has allowed me some amazing opportunities that working full time would not have. For example, the class with Kathryn Budig would have been unavailable to me if I were teaching full-time or working a 9-5 job. I would not have had the amazing experiences I had volunteering on Mondays assisting the special needs students. I had a summer break that gave me the time I needed to go away and do my yoga teacher training. Work exchanges have connected me to wonderful teachers on Wednesday and now Tuesday mornings. On Thursdays at 3:00 I have been able to teach a community yoga class. Graduate school has given me an amazing schedule that has permitted me to dive head first into the Chicago Yoga scene.
I know I continually talk about how much I can't wait for grad school to be done, in all honesty I will be pretty sad about it. I love learning and being a student, but even more I love the path that graduate school has led me down that has brought me to where I am now and continues to allow me to participate in the amazing Chicago yoga community. That is my graduate school silver lining and my lesson in trusting I am exactly where I need to be.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Hanumanasana: practice makes progress w1
I am really excited about this challenge, it has been in my head awhile and was contingent on my getting a phone with a camera that worked... So here we go!
When I wanted to get bakasana or sirsasana I was practicing those all the time and I eventually got them- the full splits, Hanumanasana, is something I would really like to improve, it opens the gates to so many other beautiful poses.
It is a full body stretch- chest, shoulders, etc.
I am going to watch my progress with this pose for the next month- I am sure I will learn more patience. I am not looking for a perfect or full splits on either side but progress!!
I will be using pictosaur to track my progress- it's an awesome app by my cousin that marks progress and changes in photos and helps you like up the shot each time based on your last pic.
Here are my week one pictures: thanks Lori for being my photographer
The difference between my two side is apparent!
I use the block to help support me and to hold the pose a little longer with out over stretching and the. Pulling or tearing that hamstring.
Due to the crazy running challenge I am currently doing I am slightly concerned I may move further from the ground- haha.
These pics are post a bind and unwind class full of arm balance and a chin balance attempt so I was pretty warmed up and a little sweaty!
These pics are post a bind and unwind class full of arm balance and a chin balance attempt so I was pretty warmed up and a little sweaty!
I will post a good warm up for this pose later this week- perhaps a mini-video??
Please feel free to join in the challenge and post your progress on the FB page.
Friday, November 22, 2013
Academia to Asana
As a graduate student and instructor I am often on campus for long days and then head to the studio either before or after to either take or teach a yoga class. Since I take public transportation, hauling around an extra bag full of clothes to change into-no matter how small they are- is an extra inconvenience. The outfits above are perfect for days that I am just a Spanish student and then head to or from the studio. The shoes are vegan, the tank top and jacket are from Nordstrom, the tunic and leggings are Beyond Yoga-one of my favorite new brands, and the jewelry is recycled and/or eco-friendly.
Academia to Asana by cloch1 featuring a balcony bra
This set I made with working and then heading to the studio, the seafoam tank and two tunics are from Lole's eco-line. The stirup leggings are Beyond Yoga, and the orange tank is from Nordstrom.The tote WANT LES ESSENTIELS DE LA VIE Olive Green Slub O'hare Shopper Tote is a bit pricey for me at around $450, but a girl can dream. The boots are the eco-friendly Coclico
The grey sweaters are great layering pieces that I can wear with Jeans or pants to work and only have to tote around the crops. The V-neck is Alo and the cowl neck is by Unity both at Nordstroms. Likewise, the leggings and three colored tanks are from there are well, the pink and leopard one are zella. The black heart-opener tank is from Beyond Yoga (link above). The booties can be found at Eco-Conscious website and are also vegan. The duffle bag is recycled and from Etsy, the black sleek bag is Boticca, and the cosmetic bag or wash bag is Ecoalf Californi. The earrings are also from Etsy and the watch is the Sprout cork strap watch from JCPenny.
The best part about a lot of these clothes-besides how cute they are- is that they are from Nordstroms meaning they will go on sale, may be available at The Rack, and they have a great return policy. I have also had amazing customer service with Lole as well.
This set I made with working and then heading to the studio, the seafoam tank and two tunics are from Lole's eco-line. The stirup leggings are Beyond Yoga, and the orange tank is from Nordstrom.The tote WANT LES ESSENTIELS DE LA VIE Olive Green Slub O'hare Shopper Tote is a bit pricey for me at around $450, but a girl can dream. The boots are the eco-friendly Coclico
The grey sweaters are great layering pieces that I can wear with Jeans or pants to work and only have to tote around the crops. The V-neck is Alo and the cowl neck is by Unity both at Nordstroms. Likewise, the leggings and three colored tanks are from there are well, the pink and leopard one are zella. The black heart-opener tank is from Beyond Yoga (link above). The booties can be found at Eco-Conscious website and are also vegan. The duffle bag is recycled and from Etsy, the black sleek bag is Boticca, and the cosmetic bag or wash bag is Ecoalf Californi. The earrings are also from Etsy and the watch is the Sprout cork strap watch from JCPenny.
The best part about a lot of these clothes-besides how cute they are- is that they are from Nordstroms meaning they will go on sale, may be available at The Rack, and they have a great return policy. I have also had amazing customer service with Lole as well.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
5 Stress Reducing Habits: sharing my lesson on taking control of my life and anxiety
Stress!! I use to not think I was stressed, but my body (and my mom) continued to tell me otherwise. My stress manifests itself via canker sores, forehead acne, stomach pains, headaches, and morphs me into a not nice person.
Although the short term effects (listed above) are not pretty, the long term health effects of stress are uglier. The constant release of cortisol, the stress hormone, has long lasting and negative effects on the body. The book, Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life, really helped me to understand hormones, how they work, and the impact they have on our body long term- cancers and attacks amongst other diseases and hormonal imbalance as we get older (particularly menopause age).
Chronic stress is constantly wearing down your body. I felt a huge shift in my stress levels after moving to Chicago and I didn't really know why. Yes, I am in grad school, but I had just finished a long stretch where I was moving, planning a wedding, applying to grad-school, running a student council, starting a dance team, and working while training for a 1/2 marathon. It seemed to me that the number of stressors in my life had decreased, yet my anxiety and in-ability to deal with the stress completely increased-- it was a really rough time and my husband was really worried about my lack of coping techniques, I knew something had to change.
In New Orleans I had formed habits that I hadn't realized helped me deal with all the stress, when we moved to Chicago I unconsciously abandoned those habits and now I am more aware of how to deal with stress via my training this summer and working with a therapist last semester, I realized the importance of those habits and am currently working on re-incorporating them into my life.
Dealing with and reducing stress in a healthy way-
Working out- I really believe that my running during that last crazy year in New Orleans helped me get through all the changes and obligations. Once Chicago winter hit my running took a massive nose dive and so did my overall cardio workouts. As soon as I started running again I felt better. Get a trainer, go to a cardio class, go for a short run-- getting the heart rate up and releasing endorphins (insert Legally Blonde quote) is so important to your body physiologically dealing with the stress. Even if sometimes making the time to workout is stressful just suck it up and go for a 20 minute run--you will never regret it afterwards.
Routines- one thing I learned through Ayurvedic lessons at my training this summer is that by doing things at the same time each day / week allows your nervous system to relax. When I lived in NOLA I worked at a school where I woke up at the same time each day, ate the same thing for breakfast each day, went to work and had a schedule, and had a set T/TH apt. at the gym, and a set time Saturday morning for cleaning and running errands. My grad school schedule does not allow for such consistency, but I do try to wake up / eat at similar times. Likewise, I have a calendar with a cleaning schedule on it, however I am still trying to figure out my workout schedule.
*** This may seem redundant and boring, but trust me, as a person who thrives on spontaneity and suffers from ruts and funks from too much routine this basic daily skeleton is what holds me up so that I can have that spontaneity.
De-Clutter and Organize- One of the worst feelings I get is when I am overwhelmed by school, so I ignore housework, then as I am trying to do the schoolwork I all the clutter and mess closing in on me.
Solution: I now have a cleaning calendar, it will take about 10 minutes at most each day to do the chore on the list. I did extensive research on how to keep a house clean--I am not a naturally neat person so this is hard and I needed all the advice I could get.
So far the house has stayed clean and I did not have to spend my entire Friday undoing the mess I made M-TH. It is getting in the habit of doing the little things along the way and cleaning as I go.
Organizing is so important. I am one of those people who look unorganized to others but I tend to know where things are, that is until I get stressed then FORGET ABOUT IT! I will lose my keys and phone about 5 times a day, which then stresses me out more and usually results in tears. I don't want to add to the stress I already have- I spent days this summer organizing and de-cluttering the office and closets so that when I look for something I know where it is and can find it.
I am still working on getting rid of stuff, but honestly getting rid of a bag of clothes or things you don't need feels so good, you feel lighter.
Get rid of things you don't use- we did not need 15 blankets. Clothes you don't wear, get rid of them
Friends- Moving is hard and making new friends when you aren't living in a dorm or starting a new job is hard. I really missed my friendly get-togethers and the social style of living in New Orleans. Lately I have been skyping friends from New Orleans, and no it's not the same but it feels so much better than not skyping them. I continue to put myself out there and in situations to meet new people.
New Habits that I am trying to implement:
Meditating- this is key! Every place that offers advice for reducing stress encourages meditation, I am working this into my new routine. For me a great yoga class is right up there with mediation.
Although the short term effects (listed above) are not pretty, the long term health effects of stress are uglier. The constant release of cortisol, the stress hormone, has long lasting and negative effects on the body. The book, Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your Life, really helped me to understand hormones, how they work, and the impact they have on our body long term- cancers and attacks amongst other diseases and hormonal imbalance as we get older (particularly menopause age).
Chronic stress is constantly wearing down your body. I felt a huge shift in my stress levels after moving to Chicago and I didn't really know why. Yes, I am in grad school, but I had just finished a long stretch where I was moving, planning a wedding, applying to grad-school, running a student council, starting a dance team, and working while training for a 1/2 marathon. It seemed to me that the number of stressors in my life had decreased, yet my anxiety and in-ability to deal with the stress completely increased-- it was a really rough time and my husband was really worried about my lack of coping techniques, I knew something had to change.
In New Orleans I had formed habits that I hadn't realized helped me deal with all the stress, when we moved to Chicago I unconsciously abandoned those habits and now I am more aware of how to deal with stress via my training this summer and working with a therapist last semester, I realized the importance of those habits and am currently working on re-incorporating them into my life.
Dealing with and reducing stress in a healthy way-
Working out- I really believe that my running during that last crazy year in New Orleans helped me get through all the changes and obligations. Once Chicago winter hit my running took a massive nose dive and so did my overall cardio workouts. As soon as I started running again I felt better. Get a trainer, go to a cardio class, go for a short run-- getting the heart rate up and releasing endorphins (insert Legally Blonde quote) is so important to your body physiologically dealing with the stress. Even if sometimes making the time to workout is stressful just suck it up and go for a 20 minute run--you will never regret it afterwards.
Routines- one thing I learned through Ayurvedic lessons at my training this summer is that by doing things at the same time each day / week allows your nervous system to relax. When I lived in NOLA I worked at a school where I woke up at the same time each day, ate the same thing for breakfast each day, went to work and had a schedule, and had a set T/TH apt. at the gym, and a set time Saturday morning for cleaning and running errands. My grad school schedule does not allow for such consistency, but I do try to wake up / eat at similar times. Likewise, I have a calendar with a cleaning schedule on it, however I am still trying to figure out my workout schedule.
*** This may seem redundant and boring, but trust me, as a person who thrives on spontaneity and suffers from ruts and funks from too much routine this basic daily skeleton is what holds me up so that I can have that spontaneity.
De-Clutter and Organize- One of the worst feelings I get is when I am overwhelmed by school, so I ignore housework, then as I am trying to do the schoolwork I all the clutter and mess closing in on me.
Solution: I now have a cleaning calendar, it will take about 10 minutes at most each day to do the chore on the list. I did extensive research on how to keep a house clean--I am not a naturally neat person so this is hard and I needed all the advice I could get.
So far the house has stayed clean and I did not have to spend my entire Friday undoing the mess I made M-TH. It is getting in the habit of doing the little things along the way and cleaning as I go.
Organizing is so important. I am one of those people who look unorganized to others but I tend to know where things are, that is until I get stressed then FORGET ABOUT IT! I will lose my keys and phone about 5 times a day, which then stresses me out more and usually results in tears. I don't want to add to the stress I already have- I spent days this summer organizing and de-cluttering the office and closets so that when I look for something I know where it is and can find it.
I am still working on getting rid of stuff, but honestly getting rid of a bag of clothes or things you don't need feels so good, you feel lighter.
Get rid of things you don't use- we did not need 15 blankets. Clothes you don't wear, get rid of them
Friends- Moving is hard and making new friends when you aren't living in a dorm or starting a new job is hard. I really missed my friendly get-togethers and the social style of living in New Orleans. Lately I have been skyping friends from New Orleans, and no it's not the same but it feels so much better than not skyping them. I continue to put myself out there and in situations to meet new people.
New Habits that I am trying to implement:
Meditating- this is key! Every place that offers advice for reducing stress encourages meditation, I am working this into my new routine. For me a great yoga class is right up there with mediation.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Five things I am grateful for this week
1. Candles- I have been lighting my candles more now that it is dark outside by what seems like noon. I love using candles to set the mood of a personal practice, meditation, or a bath. Fire is so cool :).
2. Girl scouts- This past Friday I was taught yoga at Family Fitness Night, a project for my cousin's girl scout troop. Besides the amazing cookies that my husband asks about all year long, "When are girl scout cookies?"- as if it's a holiday, as a brownie I attended summer camp, sock hops, and partook in many projects. I really appreciate all the memories and opportunities that organization provided.
3. A washer and dryer- I don't think we are thankful enough for these first world luxuries, period. I know I complain about not having washer-in-unit, however, I should just be thankful that I have access to one- the a large number of the women in the world do not. I am super thankful that my mama lets us come out and use hers. If you have one in unit, take a hot moment and appreciate it!
4. My food processor- it is used to make so many delicious things, and I use it all the time. If I had to grab one kitchen appliance in a fire, this would be it.
5. Yoga blocks- Post training, I have become a prop junkie. They just make it all feel soo good. I did a great home practice Thursday and the block made it that much better. Not to mention Natural Fitness, shown above, is an earth friendly, Chicago based company.
Five things I am grateful for this week by cloch1 featuring white home decor
Sunday, November 3, 2013
My expierence assisting yoga for people with special needs
I wanted to write a little bit about my experience this past Monday because I think it is important to reflect on these kinds of experiences.
God's special children, as we have referred to them in my family, or people of special needs, have always had a special place in my heart and a strong presence in my life. I have grown up with family members who have a wide variety of needs; and as a teacher I have encountered students in my classes and homeroom. I truly admire their enthusiasm for life and the intense love that they offer, and this past Monday was no exception. I observed some of the most beautiful yogi's while assisting Gabriel Halpurn in a class for Sertoma Centre students.
Sertoma Centre students range on the scale of mobility and verbal skills; and this yoga class was designed to help them stretch since most of their days are spent seated. Each SC student was placed with one or two assistants. When we first arrived we set up a plethora of props- sandbags, eye pillows, straps, eventually moving to this mummy looking rack deal and chairs. One Monday a month Iyengar trained yoga teacher, Gabriel Halpern, leads this class instructing us where and how to use the props, how to help stretch the student, and interjects his cheesy yet perfect zinger jokes.
I loved how we used the props:
Sandbags on the palms to help open their shoulders
Bolsters under the knees to help ground the sacrum
Chairs for them to sit on so that they could do Utitta Parsvokonasana and Trikonasana
Strap to pull their foot in.
I want to take a minute to brag on my student-- I am not even sure she really needed me, she always new what was coming next, the proper alignment, and then bam she hit the pose with precision, flexibility, and mindfulness. She regularly comes to this class and even admitted to me that she practices at home. She was giggly, happy, and loved to tickle us as we held her in position.
We helped them get further into poses and aided them in helping themselves as well. We opened hips, worked abs, stretched hamstrings and hip flexors, lengthen side body, did back bends, and then they got a face massage and a super juicy supported svasana.
I am hoping to assist in this class once a month because I think there is so much to learn from these students and so much love in that room. It makes one remember that yoga isn't about being the most flexible or the best but about honoring your own body and using yoga to serve your body, mind, and being.
God's special children, as we have referred to them in my family, or people of special needs, have always had a special place in my heart and a strong presence in my life. I have grown up with family members who have a wide variety of needs; and as a teacher I have encountered students in my classes and homeroom. I truly admire their enthusiasm for life and the intense love that they offer, and this past Monday was no exception. I observed some of the most beautiful yogi's while assisting Gabriel Halpurn in a class for Sertoma Centre students.
Sertoma Centre students range on the scale of mobility and verbal skills; and this yoga class was designed to help them stretch since most of their days are spent seated. Each SC student was placed with one or two assistants. When we first arrived we set up a plethora of props- sandbags, eye pillows, straps, eventually moving to this mummy looking rack deal and chairs. One Monday a month Iyengar trained yoga teacher, Gabriel Halpern, leads this class instructing us where and how to use the props, how to help stretch the student, and interjects his cheesy yet perfect zinger jokes.
I loved how we used the props:
Sandbags on the palms to help open their shoulders
Bolsters under the knees to help ground the sacrum
Chairs for them to sit on so that they could do Utitta Parsvokonasana and Trikonasana
Strap to pull their foot in.
I want to take a minute to brag on my student-- I am not even sure she really needed me, she always new what was coming next, the proper alignment, and then bam she hit the pose with precision, flexibility, and mindfulness. She regularly comes to this class and even admitted to me that she practices at home. She was giggly, happy, and loved to tickle us as we held her in position.
We helped them get further into poses and aided them in helping themselves as well. We opened hips, worked abs, stretched hamstrings and hip flexors, lengthen side body, did back bends, and then they got a face massage and a super juicy supported svasana.
I am hoping to assist in this class once a month because I think there is so much to learn from these students and so much love in that room. It makes one remember that yoga isn't about being the most flexible or the best but about honoring your own body and using yoga to serve your body, mind, and being.
Friday (Sunday): Five little things I was grateful for this past week
This past weekend was busy- and I am thankful for that in and of itself. I was able to hangout with some amazing people, teach a great yoga class full of friends and new students, and celebrate the 30th birthday of one of my dear friends, but I did run out of time to post this--so it is a little late.
1. Fall leaves- although here in Chicago the weather is insanely inconsistent the beautiful fall leaves help to deal with the late 80' weather followed immediately by snow flurries the next week. When the sky is blue and sunny the red, gold, and orange leaves are so beautiful and the gradient of the trees themselves is worth stopping to appreciate.
2. The National Museum of Mexican Art- Chicago has great museums and for an extra credit opportunity our 101 students were able to attend the Día de los Muertos community night at this museum. Fellow graduate students and myself attending taking full advantage of the crafts, photo booth, snacks, and enjoying the colorful artwork of Mexican artists--- not to mention we had an amazing dinner following. How can you go to Pilsen and not get Mexican food. I am so grateful for the culture and museums Chicago has.
3. Hunter Boots- see point 1--rain, cold, snow etc. these things make it easier for me to galavant all over the city and stay dry.
4. Shutter Fly Photo Books- Theses are great gifts and they always are offering coupons. For my friends 30th, her husband created a book that all family and friends could log onto and edit--I dug up some winners of awkward middle school years and really enjoyed going through the old pictures. I think we all enjoyed her gift as much as she did.
5. Alternate Nostril Breathing-- so thankful I have this tool to use. For some reason in my class Wednesday night I just felt a wave of anxiety and a shortness of breath, hoping my classmates wouldn't notice too much ( I mean we were all really watching the Filipino hip hop group getting down outside the windows of our classroom), I subtly started using this breath to calm myself down. After a few rounds I began to feel better.
I am super thankful for my friends that attending my class Saturday morning--hope you enjoyed it as much as I did!!
Friday (Sunday): Five little things I was grateful for this past week by cloch1 featuring fall home decor
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Mala Beads--what and why
Before I attended my teacher training, I had no idea what mala beads were-- so I thought I would take time to explain since I have made a few posts that include them.
Mala beads are prayer beads, so for all my Catholic friends and family they work similar to a rosary, they help keep track of where you are in saying a mantra. The strands include 108 beads, some including 4 marker beads or others with 2 larger beads all depending on the tradition of the mala i.e. Tibetan, mantra, etc. Many malas use a certain type of stone bead or wood that attaches itself to a meaning, others are blessed by gurus or monks, others are homemade or just bought for being beautiful.
Many Celebreties have been seen where the mala around their neck, others wear them around their left wrist as a bracelet--there are also mala bracelets.
http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0171/7374/t/3/assets/blog_Mala_Beads_Celebrity_Julia_Roberts.jpg?5245
http://vivsvogue.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/elle-macpherson-435.jpg
HOW, WHY, WHEN, and WHERE
I use my mala
I try to remember to wear mine on a daily basis, even under my t-shirt.
When I arrive super early to a yoga class I will sit and go through a mantra.
When I feel a wave of anxiety or other strong emotion coming on I grab a seat and mantra.
To start meditation on days when I am having a hard time finding my seat.
You can do this anywhere and noone needs to know. I have done it on my poof, at my desk, on the train, and in the studio.
Mantra:
"Om gam Ganapataye namaha "
It is to Ganesha- the remover of obstacles. This mantra is to help ourselves release and move past perceived obstacles form within. It helps to calm the chatter of the mind.
Make your own Mala:
Supplies-
- cord or string for stringing the beads
- a guru bead (etsy), it is a bead with three holes
- colored floss or a tassle
- beads (108) you can find these on etsy, it's the best deal
- they can be wood or stone
- 6mm or 8mm depending on your preference
- a needle for easy threading
- you can use one of those necklace trays but it is not necessary.
I began wanting to knot the cord in between the beads but after one or two knots not landing where I wanted them I scrapped that idea and just beaded.
At the end cut your cord, thread both ends of cord through guru bead and attach / tie the cord to the tassle.
Not feeling all DIY--or are the supplies adding up quickly? There are some stunning amazing malas on Etsy.
Lily Baubles-$30 or under- which is a great deal on a mala.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/lilybaubles?ref=l2-shopheader-name
Buzz Meditations- $60+
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BuzzMeditations?ref=l2-shopheader-name
My favorite- from Golden Lotus Mala $30-$60. These are beautiful and the shop is great.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/GoldenLotusMala
Just absolutely love this one- the frosted agate is amazing
Look for Treasures- $52
https://www.etsy.com/shop/look4treasures?ref=l2-shopheader-name
Friday, October 25, 2013
Friday 5: five little things I am loving and grateful for this week
It's that time of year when the weather is changing, clothes in the closet are being swapped from summer dresses to big chuncky sweaters, and new catalogs with Holiday goodies start arriving in the mail. It's super easy to feel like what we have isn't right and that we need new this or that or we drool over the new boots in the window of the store on the way to yoga--living in a big city and constantly passing store fronts on my way to and from wherever I decide to go makes it easy to get caught up in the game of wanting what I don't have and not appreciating the things I do. These Friday posts are to help remind me that I have fabulous things and to appriciate all that I have- I am a LUCKY, BLESSED person and I find happiness from within myself not from the items I don't own.
1. Slippers--- paired with a cup of tea, fleece pants, and a bowl of popcorn and you have me! Slippers make the middle of the night and early morning bathroom trips easier and if my feet are warm I am generally warmer all over.
2. Knitting- I have only knit a handful of times before, but for some reason I was called back to it a week ago, it helps with my anxiety, keeps my hands busy and my mind focused, and I can create warm goodies for all. See no. 3
3. Wrist warmers- I am a cold person, I often times see my fingernails turning a lovely shade of periwinkle when it gets cold outside. My office tends to be either freezing or hot and wrist warmers--knit by yours truely-- are the perfect answer to typing in the tundra that can be the grad. student office
4. Puffy Vest- my godfather is amazing and has gifted me some super warm puffy vests, they are perfect to put over a fleece and still have arm mobility. Not to mention they make a great pillow--I took a nap on mine the other day while reading.
5. My Mala- I really love the one above and can't wait till I get a really beautiful one, but for now I just whipped one up on my own from beads I had in a drawer- it ain't pretty but the other day when I felt an anxiety attack coming on I grabbed my beads, sat on my poof, and let a Ganesha mantra take over. I got up about 15 minutes later feeling a whole lot better and in control of my emotions.
Friday 5: five little things I am loving and grateful for this week by cloch1 featuring a down vest
1. Slippers--- paired with a cup of tea, fleece pants, and a bowl of popcorn and you have me! Slippers make the middle of the night and early morning bathroom trips easier and if my feet are warm I am generally warmer all over.
2. Knitting- I have only knit a handful of times before, but for some reason I was called back to it a week ago, it helps with my anxiety, keeps my hands busy and my mind focused, and I can create warm goodies for all. See no. 3
3. Wrist warmers- I am a cold person, I often times see my fingernails turning a lovely shade of periwinkle when it gets cold outside. My office tends to be either freezing or hot and wrist warmers--knit by yours truely-- are the perfect answer to typing in the tundra that can be the grad. student office
4. Puffy Vest- my godfather is amazing and has gifted me some super warm puffy vests, they are perfect to put over a fleece and still have arm mobility. Not to mention they make a great pillow--I took a nap on mine the other day while reading.
5. My Mala- I really love the one above and can't wait till I get a really beautiful one, but for now I just whipped one up on my own from beads I had in a drawer- it ain't pretty but the other day when I felt an anxiety attack coming on I grabbed my beads, sat on my poof, and let a Ganesha mantra take over. I got up about 15 minutes later feeling a whole lot better and in control of my emotions.
Friday 5: five little things I am loving and grateful for this week by cloch1 featuring a down vest
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