My Yoga Journal

Well into my 2nd series of Yoga classes, I began keeping a Yoga journal.. I wouldn't write in it every time. But occasionally I was experiencing things and I wanted a place to keep everything. I wanted to be able to remember and look back on some of the things that were happening. Not only that, but I'm a HUGE believer in everything that happens having some kind of meaning or connection. So, I would try my best to search the meaning of what was happening too. This was also the peak of my whole questioning everything phase. Things that I wanted weren't happening for me. Instead they were happening for everyone else, and I couldn't figure out why I was left out of God's plan at the time.

I had a rather interesting Savasana one evening, and after talking with my instructor; she urged me once again to really start to write these things down.

So, I ventured to Target, bought a journal and began to document my journey.

Inside I would document everything I experienced, and then either at that time or later on, research meanings behind certain things.

I would see a lot of these things come back to me in later practices or in every day life. Some things would just correlate to what I was thinking or feeling at the time and some  just went left unexplained.

It essentially became my Yoga diary!

I actually just noticed this too! The entry above was the FIRST entry. It was the sole reason on why I wanted to start a journal. Later on the following year,  I attended a Peace Meditation/Vigil that ultimately was the beginning of my what I'l…

I actually just noticed this too! The entry above was the FIRST entry. It was the sole reason on why I wanted to start a journal. Later on the following year,  I attended a Peace Meditation/Vigil that ultimately was the beginning of my what I'll call "series of fortunate events" that lead me to decide on being a yoga teacher. During that meditation, one of the mantras was "Om Namah Shivaya". When I read that last night, I immediately got goosebumps!

I also found myself adding things I found inspiring or pieces of information I wanted to save to the back of my journal.

Mara Glatzel is SO inspiring! I suggest venturing over to her website and signing up for her weekly love notes!

Mara Glatzel is SO inspiring! I suggest venturing over to her website and signing up for her weekly love notes!

When I was set on the teacher training program, I began saving every piece of anything I came across that inspired me. I wanted to be able to refer back to it upon planning my own Yoga classes. Thus my Yoga binder was born!

You'll notice it is QUITE thicker than my journal. I have not only pieces that I've saved on the history of yoga; but poems, quotes and writings that I'll dedicate to future Savasana's or class themes.

You'll notice it is QUITE thicker than my journal. I have not only pieces that I've saved on the history of yoga; but poems, quotes and writings that I'll dedicate to future Savasana's or class themes.

My Yoga notebook has taken the back burner to my binder. But, once I rediscovered it, I remembered why I loved having it so much. There are things that I wish I had written in there. Things that maybe I'll end up adding just to make it complete.

The beautiful thing about it is you can stop and begin again whenever you'd like. Maybe you're not feeling things in your practices. Maybe you need a break. Take it and come back to it when you're ready. It's always there when you want to record your next moment. It doesn't have to be an actual notebook. Start a word document or folder on your computer to journal your practices. Maybe you'll even be brave and start blogging about them.

Truly though. I wish I had taken my Yoga instructors advice sooner on starting it. So many times we go through the day to day not noticing the small things. It's nice to be able to have something that's my own to reflect upon.

 

Sequencing Part 2

You can view part 1 of this blog series HERE!

This week I've begun practicing my sequence. The first day I flowed through it. I'm not going to lie. If you're a newbie, it's definitely going to challenge you. Not just physically either. But I can already tell you're going to leave feeling so renewed and refreshed.

I spent 2 hours (it could have been a bit more... it probably was) searching ITunes for songs to include on my playlist for the class. I ended up spending almost $20 and have some really great core songs for future. I know. I know. "But Mishelle, there is Pandora, and Spotify; why aren't you just using those kinds of things?" Honestly, I've not had enough experience with Spotify to use it for a class yet. I have the free version, so I know there would be Ads. That's not to say I wouldn't splurge in the end. I very well may. But I truly want everything to flow with ease, and creating a playlist on my IPhone is something I don't have to worry about. It's a no muss no fuss. You know, for the most part!

I am looking into making my Playlist available on Spotify though for after class. The creative juices have actually begun to flow. I am also now trying to figure out how I ccan offer this to more than just those who drop in to my class August 20th. Ever since I started practicing this thing on my own, I've also gotten the idea for a workshop. But, it will be something that isn't available until closer to the end of the year when I finish my training. Don't worry! I've got some things up my sleeves. I'm praying that they work.

I've never felt so connected to my practice before. I don't know whether it's the fact that it's me.... MY heart and soul that went into it. Or if I'm just really enjoying a heart opening practice at the moment. It could be both. I am noticing that all of things I've tried, I'm slowly incorporating into the way I teach. I love that. I tell when I'm using something this instructor taught me and when I'm using something another taught. It's beautiful. It truly is.

 

it really is the little things

Surprise! Happy Tuesday!

Did Mishelle really just figure out how to send her blog through email? I believe she did! Please let me know if you're experiencing any issues. I'm new to this and want to do it right I just need some time to learn :-)

I'm trying my hardest to get as many posts as I can scheduled because I know when training starts its going to be hard to do this. Expect my posts to not be as frequent. I'm still developing a system.

If you're seeing this and thinking; "How do I subscribe?" Well, that's simple. Simply click here. After you enter your information, you should be subscribed to not only blog posts, but upcoming event notifications, offerings and random little notes from yours truly. Please know that you can trust me to never share or sell your information.

 

The Wonderful World of Yoga Props

The Wonderful World of Yoga Props

"My point here is; props aren't a bad thing! You shouldn't feel self-conscious because you need an extra block, or because you need a strap to help move your leg into the correct position. You CAN be that girl (or guy for that matter) who lugs their own duffel full bag of props into a class. Sooner or later, adding props comes natural  and you don't even notice those looks that you get from your neighbors.

It's also okay that sometimes your emotions get the best of you. But don't stop shining because of it. After all, we are human!  Pick yourself up, take a breath (or two), dust yourself off and start again. Don't give up! Don't ever give up! It's easier said than done, but I promise you; if you start again, you won't regret it!"

Read More

7 Essentials For The New Yoga Student!


The above is an image I created for my Shabby-Savvy Maven blog. I've since quit blogging under that name, but you may still find some of the things I wrote interesting. This was my take on a "beauty and DIY" blog. But, it didn't take off; and I didn…

The above is an image I created for my Shabby-Savvy Maven blog. I've since quit blogging under that name, but you may still find some of the things I wrote interesting. This was my take on a "beauty and DIY" blog. But, it didn't take off; and I didn't have near as much passion as I do here!

I went ahead and compiled a list of my 7 essentials for any new yoga student. Whether it be for at home practice or to bring with you to your yoga practices;

1.       Strap – I am still in search of the PERFECT strap that works just as the ones in my actual yoga studio do. I find the ones that I’m finding are too thin for me or are too short. I’m sure it is that I am not looking in the right place. I found mine at Dick's Sporting Goods. My next strap will be from the Yoga Accessories website. These seem super similar to the ones I have in class.

2.       Blocks – You can find these cheapest probably at Five Below. They work the same and are also structured the same. I’ve seen these range at other stores from $10-$20 depending on the size and brand.
 

3.       LIP BALM – I particularly am in love with my Rosebud Salve Strawberry Lip Balm, but I also always keep a Burt’s Bees on me. I've always got Burt's Bees on me! It's an obsession!
 

4.       Yoga Bag – Or gym bag I suppose. My absolute FAVORITE is this bag from Thirty-One. I actually have it in this print too! When I ordered mine, I embroidered “Here for Savasana” on the front. (It gets me a lot of laughs!) My yoga mat fits perfectly on the back of the bag. There’s a spot for my stinky shoes… AND when I’m wearing earrings, or even traveling with them, there are even holes for you to pin them to! I am SO in love with this bag! I'm not sure that it is still available. My advice to you is to find a yoga bag that you LOVE!
 

5.       Hair ties – DUH!!! (trust me, you'll thank me later!)
 

6.       Yoga Mat –  You can find these cheapest (and sometimes cutest) at Five Below. I feel the quality is more or less the same as what you'd find at Target, WalMart or even some Yoga Accessories at a fraction of the price. Most of the time the print are even prettier! But if you would rather get an “official” sport store yoga mat, that’s fine too… Expect to pay between $30 and $200 depending on where you go and what kind of mat you get. My suggestion would be to hit up your local Marshall's or TJ Maxx if you're looking at investing in a "pro" mat.
If you go around January (or the time when gym and work out gear tend to be 'in season') you'll find lots of Manduka and Jade mats for a fraction of the cost. Last January, I got my purple Jade mat for $49.99 (as opposed to the $80 retail cost). Just do your research and be on the look out at all times for good deals!
 

7.       Water bottle – You don’t always realize how intense yoga can be vs. working out at the gym. You can sweat just as much, and need to replenish your body just as if you were working out on the treadmill or elliptical at the gym. You’re just working your muscles in different ways. Most yoga studios offer water complimentary, BUT some require you to bring your own bottle.

And there you have it… my 7 essentials for any yoga beginner!

Please, don't be afraid to integrate these things into your classes or home practice! In fact, I'd love to hear how you're doing just that. Shoot me an email or leave me a comment below!

Namaste,

M

Sequencing Part 1

Today I met with Caitlin to go over my very first sequence. In the subsequent weeks prior, I have been actively researching and planning for my first class. You could say my training is a little different than what you typically see. I am actually teaching a class prior to my training. I know. I always get that look of confusion from people. "You're teaching, before you're certified? How is that possible?" Yoga training is quite a bit different than say; becoming a doctor, an EMT or even being a school teacher. However, the similarities between all of these things is the requirement for on the job training. Typically, you'll most predominately recognize this as being an intern or in terms of teaching; a student teacher. This is the same concept. Except my experience in yoga also counts as me becoming a teacher. I've learned what I want to include and what I don't and 9 times out of 10, I know what the Sanskrit word for the pose is as well as the benefit of the pose.

 

But the reason I still need to go through the training is to be able to dig deeper. Why is it affecting these muscles or areas of the body. WHY am I doing THIS pose after or before THIS pose?

So, this is what I'm learning now.

Caitlin approached me a few months ago with the idea of me student teaching a class that she would help me sequence and plan. We would take lots of time to go over it and it would also be a "self-teaching" moment for me. I accepted this challenge with open arms. I mean, who has the opportunity to have this cool experience? It's rare, and I am so eternally grateful to not only have her guidance but her faith in me as a Yoga teacher.

After researching and reading different sequences online, I bravely began composing my class. My first intention was to make those that were attending my class fall in love with yoga. Of course, this isn't always the case for everyone. So, I wanted everyone to walk away feeling renewed, refreshed and intrigued.

I actually centered my practice around Tree pose. (inspiration from a photo I took in Curvy Beloved) But, after I finished the draft of my sequence I later realized I never even included it. I'm thankful I didn't. I think it would have been to hard to start with. I brought my sequence to Caitlin's and we went over it dividing my poses in to YES, NO and MAYBE. From there, we restructured. I had great bones to the class. But there were some things that didn't make sense, and some things we decided to add to help the flow and to give options in case we blow through the poses I had planned.

I never truly realized how much time and energy goes into sequencing a class. I went into this thinking, yeah; someday I'd love to do this and this alone to; maybe I was right in thinking of it just as a hobby. I love Yoga so much, I don't ever want to get burnt out. I don't ever want to resent it.

You can totally tell when a teacher just throws stuff together and when they've taken the time to fully map out their class. It's those classes that help you dive deeper than just the physical movement. It's THOSE classes in which I want to offer.

When it all boils down, it isn't just picking poses that seemed to correlate and going with it. It's picking a PEAK pose, and then structuring your class around it to warm up the body and then release and help loosen those muscles we used even more. Not until we flat out make a list of what strengths and what flexibility is needed for my peak pose did I understand this. Then, everything else seemed to fall into place. There really was only 1 or 2 poses we got rid of completely. Then we added 3 or 4 more based on my deciding warrior would be the peak. The majority of my class had ended up being heart openers. This was extremely interesting to me because I had even chose a reading for Savasana that was based on the heart. This was my intention from the get go. But I just didn't have enough faith in myself that I was doing it correctly.

So, right now - It's safe to say I'm okay with offering select classes. But my goal is and always will be to make Yoga accessible to anyone who wants it. Regardless of their age, body type, mental capacity or financial situation.

My next steps are to practice my sequence for the next 8 days; every other day. Starting out just doing it, and then making mental and actual notes on how I feel during the poses.

but why?

The other night I was out at a bar with some friends and some of us were a little more under the influence than the others - sure. In all honesty, I had a stressful day, and I really just needed to unwind, have a drink and have some fun. So anyway, there we are laughing and carrying on and trying to make small talk when I get slapped in the face with this question; do you think your weight will hinder you getting a job in a studio.

I've always thought about how I'd answer this. But I never expected to be hit so off guard with it. It never really occurred to me that some people may think I'm getting my yoga certification and wanting to apply at a place like LA Fitness, or Corepower... somewhere where though it's a gym, and you're supposed to "work on getting in shape", it's still mainly geared towards those with a thinner figure. I'm most definitely not wanting that. My soul purpose in getting my certification and wanting to spread my yoga with the world is because I believe that Yoga can truly be for anyone.

I've also been asked, "Why Yoga? "What is the point? Is it to loose weight? relax? be more flexible?"

Oh, and then there's my favorite. The point people try to make of it being an Eastern religion thing, and I'm not following my path to God through Jesus Christ. Really?

Honestly, I really think the best way to answer is to explain to you that Yoga truly means different things to different people.

Of course going into it, I was always curious. But again, that "you have to be thin to do this" mantra kicks in and it truly hinders not only someone who's body type is bigger, but someone who may have injuries and can't move in certain positions - or heck; even move off of the chair.

So, of course I was afraid to try it. I remember browsing online, trying to find something to help me. There was little to none. Literally THE only thing I found, was a class that a friend had talked about which was already full, and Anna Guest-Jelley's Curvy Yoga. That's it! And I'll tell you what... That's some serious slim pickings!

Now that I've had experience through those two, finding body positive websites and gatherings has been a lot easier. This community is also growing, which is also making it somewhat easier to find things. But I think back to that first I time I wanted it, but couldn't find it - and I WANT to be someone's option. Not only that, but I want to be able to give someone that option! 

And now I'm seeing stories where people are complaining on the simple fact of having "fat-yoga" or other select Yoga classes for different body types. You think I'd be where I'm at now had I not gone to a Plus-Size Yoga class? I don't. I would have hated it. I know it. I went into it afraid, and not knowing what to expect, but do you know what I learned from that?

IT'S OKAY TO BE AFRAID!
It's okay to try something new! It's okay to step outside of your comfort zone.
IT IS!

Most people don't just do that though. So there HAS to be that option. That door to open to new possibilities... and THAT'S where I come in!

Never in a million years would I have imagined feeling how I do about yoga. It was truly this liberating experience for me. And I remember on day one thinking, "God, I have to find a way to share this!"

The beautiful thing about yoga and it's many many meanings is no matter what type of class you take. Whether it's a Restorative, a Vinyasa Flow, Bikram, Pranayama, etc., the true purpose of any yoga is to put YOU first. To build strength in your mind AND body and to create awareness and harmony not only in your practice, but in your every day life.

As for the religious part. Sure. You're right. It can be religious. But isn't that also what's so beautiful about it? It's creating life within yourself. It's opening you up to new possibilities. It's helping you build strength, stamina and balance. It's helping you love not only the world, but it's turning that love inward. Forcing you to love and accept yourself - "flaws" and all. It's all of these things; and it morphs so beautifully and so flawlessly into the other like the threads of a beautiful fabric.

I was so lost when I started this. When it comes to my relationship with religion and God, I still am to an extent. I went through a period where everything I was taught to believe was being questioned. That was and IS really hard for me to understand. But in my practice, I've found I've grown closer to not only God, but to myself.

That's what I was lacking before.

ME!

 

links and loves

I've been a follower of Kate over at over at The Small Things Blog for quite sometime now. I simply LOVE her blog and find myself checking it every morning! Anyway, she usually posts what she calls Links + Loves quote frequently on Fridays. I've ALWAYS loved her idea, and quite frankly, this isn't my first rodeo... Sometimes I run out of ideas to blog about; so I've decided to incorporate the same kind of thing into my blog. You can probably expect this post to continue on Fridays!

Speaking of my morning ritual; I have about 3 or 4 blog that I routinely check the same time each day. Another one of my favorites is from a new friend in the yoga community; Krissie Bentley. I've followed since way back in her Committed Coaching days, and I am excited to see her venture into the yoga world and share her yoga with everyone. You see, not only does Krissie have a blog, but she ALSO releases some rather a m a z i n g online yoga classes. So, while her and I live quite some distance apart; I already feel like I know her so well!

Recently we went on vacation to our family camper in Wisconsin. Here, I am blessed to be able to take baths! I know.. It's the small things (hah, Kate!) BUT! Where we live now, we only have a walk in shower. Which is great and all for wanting to get clean. But I'm a girly girl; and I LOVE having my relaxing bubble bath during a night of pamper. So, before we left I managed to score some AMAZING Lush products! My FAVORITES are "The Comforter" "Brightside" and "French Kiss"

THIS Rosebud Salve lip balm SAVES my lips and leaves them super soft!

THIS Rosebud Salve lip balm SAVES my lips and leaves them super soft!

Hands down, my FAVORITE spray - EVER! I LOVE spraying my mat with a few spritzes of this before my yoga class. The scent is so refreshing! I've even caught myself using it as an every day body spray! You can find this on Vita Cost, but I've even fou…

Hands down, my FAVORITE spray - EVER! I LOVE spraying my mat with a few spritzes of this before my yoga class. The scent is so refreshing! I've even caught myself using it as an every day body spray! You can find this on Vita Cost, but I've even found it at Meijer!

 

Join me!

I'll be guest teaching at Shine Studio Batavia as part of my teacher training on August 20th, Click on the image below to be directed to their website for more information on their Plus Size Yoga classes.  I hope you join me, and I hope you check out their studio. It is absolutely FABULOUS!

Thursday, August 20, 20157:00pm 8:15pmShine Studio BataviaJoin me for an evening of balance and bliss as I teach my very first yoga class as a student!This will be a drop in class, however space will be limited. Please arrive early to secure your sp…

Thursday, August 20, 2015

7:00pm 8:15pm

Shine Studio Batavia

Join me for an evening of balance and bliss as I teach my very first yoga class as a student!

This will be a drop in class, however space will be limited. Please arrive early to secure your spot.

*Shine Studio's drop in rate is $16.00. However, if you already have purchased a class pack, you may redeem one of your sessions for this.

We're live... Now what?

 

Well... We're live, now what? I've created this space to be able to share my teacher training with you. So. What can you expect? Until then, I'll probably be spontaneously blogging here and there as I prepare for the start of my training program. I'll probably be sharing a LOT of my inspiration and motivation with you guys. I've just learned SO much, and I want to be able to share it with all of you! Because you're all amazing and you deserve to feel just as inspired as I do! Once I begin training, I do plan on having a set schedule for my blog and will plan on sharing my experiences with you. I'm still tweaking things out on my part for this. But please don't worry! I plan on sharing with you as soon as I have everything figured out.

 

You all have been SO supportive as I've launched my brand. My brand... Did I really just say that? m y  b r a n d! That still gets me. I never in my wildest dreams imagined being right here before you. It's an amazing feeling! I appreciate all of the private messages, friend request, friend suggestions, and most of all, hearing your stories!

 

 

Join me!

I'll be guest teaching at Shine Studio Batavia as part of my teacher training on August 20th, Click on the image below to be directed to their website for more information on their Plus Size Yoga classes.  I hope you join me, and I hope you check out their studio. It is absolutely FABULOUS!

Thursday, August 20, 20157:00pm 8:15pmShine Studio BataviaJoin me for an evening of balance and bliss as I teach my very first yoga class as a student!This will be a drop in class, and space is limited. So, please arrive early to secure your spot.*S…

Thursday, August 20, 2015

7:00pm 8:15pm

Shine Studio Batavia

Join me for an evening of balance and bliss as I teach my very first yoga class as a student!

This will be a drop in class, and space is limited. So, please arrive early to secure your spot.

*Shine Studio's drop in rate is $16.00. However, if you already have purchased a class pack, you may redeem one of your sessions for this.