Yoga with Lori Lucas

See these kids? I know them all as well as their incredible parents.

2012-02-08T09:32:00.001-08:00

They are all some of the bravest and coolest (and most fun) people I know! They are local brain tumour fighter/survivors and their parents and I am really fond of each and every one of them (and they are all doing well right now too I am happy to add).

The are part of an program I love called BrainWAVE. BrainWAVE is a support program for families with a child (19 years old or younger) with a brain tumour and it is comprised of four separate but related components: events, parent support, information sharing and education. If you are looking for a way to provide fun and support for your child and family as you face the journey with a pediatric brain tumour, consider joining BrainWAVE.

Several times a year, BrainWAVE families have the opportunity to meet and relax through fun activities such as trips to sports events, historical sites and other family attractions. These FREE events give all members of the immediate family a welcome break from treatments and doctors' visits. Our next event is March 4 and I can't wait!

For more information on BrainWAVE and Brain Tumour Foundation click the links. If you have been affected by a brain tumour you are NEVER alone and there is ALWAYS hope and Brain Tumour Foundation is a wonderful resource with Education days, Support and Loads of information whether you are a child or an adult, have a brain tumour, or love somebody with one.

The 2012 Spring Sprint is coming up as well on May 27 click here for more info on that. Its a wonderful time for everybody. Namaste.

Love "your" tree. Its beautiful♥

2012-02-04T20:10:00.000-08:00

Just spent the weekend studying with the one and only Judith Lasater and she recommended we watch this video, and I just did. So amazing. BTW, if you ever get a chance to do a workshop/training/bask in Judith's wisdom a while (in any city) I highly recommend taking advantage. I am full of gratitude.

She is coming back to Vancouver in September for a Restorative Yoga Teacher training. For more info go to www.judithlasater.com OR you can go to www.soulspringwellness.ca or email Christina directly at christina@soulspringwellness.ca. *A heads up that this woman has never had a workshop that hasn't sold out in record time.*

Enjoy the video. Thank you Judith Hanson Lasater for all you gave us this weekend.

Come to the movies with me!

2012-02-01T22:33:00.001-08:00

Shanti Uganda Society (www.shantiuganda.org) will be hosting a special screening of Yogawoman (www.yogawoman.tv) and holding a silent auction at Denman Cinema's on February 28th from 6pm - 9:30pm in order to raise funds towards improving infant and maternal health, providing safe women-centered care and supporting the well-being of birthing mothers and women living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda. Featured in the film, Shanti Uganda uses yoga to improve the spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of communities impacted by HIV/AIDS, poverty and war in Uganda.

YOGAWOMAN is a groundbreaking feature film about the powerful impact of yoga on women's health, fitness, emotional well-being, and personal growth. In record numbers, women are finding strength, vitality, peace and power through yoga. Reclaiming this ancient spiritual path from its traditionally male form, the result is a radical transformation of modern yoga as we know it.

YOGAWOMAN gathers 50 of the world’s leading yoga experts in an exploration of this global phenomenon that has changed the face of yoga forever.This screening will benefit Shanti Uganda (www.shantiuganda.org) and tickets can be purchased through Event Brite or at the Cinema on the day of the event.

While not yoga related this video is absolutely amazing

2012-01-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

My two pet birds and I just watched in wonder! Enjoy.

Pregnant? if you have been coming to my classes you already know this but...

2012-01-26T09:10:00.000-08:00

My friends at Utopia Academy (right across the street from Tinseltown) are welcoming those in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters a special treat!

2 one-hour massage sessions with their senior students, for $28 (inc HST).

The dates and times are:

Thursday Jan 26 (thats today) and Thursday, Feb 2, 9, 16 and 23.

Appointments available at: 9:15am, 10:30am, and 11:45am.

Please call Utopia Academy, 604-681-4450 & press "1" for clinic

Utopia Academy's faculty of massage therapy trains students to qualify for the College of Massage Therapists of B.C.'s registration exams. Their students are preparing to be RMT's.

They are located downtown, next to Stadium skytrain, near Rogers Arena.

I for one shall be walking to work today. Check this out :)

2012-01-23T07:16:00.000-08:00

If you've got 9 minutes and 19 seconds to spare you really want to watch this. And, show it to your loved ones too!

Cat Yoga

2012-01-17T23:45:00.000-08:00

Did you know that yoga actually makes your brain more flexible as well as your body?

2012-01-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

I think we all know by now thanks to fMRI's etc. that we can continue to mold and change our brains as we age and there's not much better news than that!

There has just been so much research on the plasticity "changeability" of the brain in recent years and there is absolutely no denying it. It is just so thrilling that we can continue to expand pathways in our brain, and adapt and learn as we age. And many folks are living sooo much longer these days (interestingly, I just read that there are "48,000" centenarians living in the United States alone right now surprisingly).

And although none of us knows how long we are going to live I do know one thing for sure... as long as I live I really hope and pray I can take care of myself and "think" up until the end whenever that may be.

Yoga is brilliant in so many ways:

Did you know that stem cells that form new neurons in the brain come from the bone? (the marrow of our bones)

When we practice yoga we are "literally" creating the stem cells that form new neurons in our brains. We are stimulating the brain to grow so we can have more available pathways.

Its truly fascinating, and too amazing for words.

And combine that with all the other brain benefits of meditation? Its just so incredibly huge. (Almost too much to wrap my brain around haha)

So remember, even if/when we're elderly our brains can keep rewiring themselves protecting against cognitive decline both structurally AND functionally, and thats wonderful news!

See you on the mat friends! Namaste.

Do you drip dry your sloths before you blot them with a towel?

2012-01-11T21:15:00.001-08:00

Awwwww.....extreme cuteness!

"A good intention clothes itself with power."~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

2011-12-31T17:59:00.000-08:00

Here it is, that time of year where we look at what is working well in our lives and we also look at the things that might not be going so well. Millions of people will toast to a brand new year and a brand new “them” at midnight Dec 31. Will you? What are you resolving for 2012?

For years and years I made (and failed at) new years resolutions, but everyone doesn’t fail! I am however in the majority though, statistically. This morning I read that out of those who make new years resolutions 22% of folks fall off the wagon after a week, and after 3 months 50% just give up altogether on them. Depending on where you look the statistics are a little different but still unfavourable. If you have found yourself disappointed and discouraged in the past with resolutions, or just plain not had any success with them, why not set a sankalpa instead? Sankalpa is a Sanskrit word from the yoga tradition meaning will, purpose or determination. The word san means “highest truth” and kalpa means “vow.”
A sankalpa is an internal vow you make to yourself. Its like planting a seed within. Its private. Its similar to a resolution only instead of focusing on what you don’t want (want to give up etc), you focus on what you’d like to bring into your life and manifest. Instead of saying “I won’t” you say “I will” and you see and feel your vision it in all it’s glory. It’s a resolve that resonates deep within your core. It’s a good intention that brings you into alignment with your highest self and your greatest good. It may sound a little hokey but its really quite powerful.

There are lots of ways to practice sankalpa and I highly recommend it. And if you’re not clear on your sankalpa? Just be open to receiving it and it will come. Maybe it’s a new energy you‘d like to cultivate? Or something you have already been working on for a while? Or it may be something entirely new you’d like to manifest. You can begin each day with your sankalpa. You can reflect on it often, meditate on it, or bring it to your awareness anytime your mind is quiet and receptive. Some good times to focus on it would be: at the beginning of a yoga practice, during shavasana (deep “on purpose” relaxation), meditation, relaxing in the tub, walking in nature, or any period of mindfulness (cuddling your child, eating, walking, chores etc.). You can journal or recite a mantra, or you can simply get quiet and breathe while you focus on what you are inviting into your life. It's important to not get your ego involved or invested. Try and remember that you aren't trying to fix anything about yourself.

We are always growing, changing, and evolving, and with a sankalpa we’re not attached to a specific outcome so that means never beating yourself up or getting upset or disappointed, so there isn’t ever a reason to throw in the towel. And real change doesn’t happen over night anyways. We stay very much in the present moment as the seeds grow and things evolve. And lastly, remember the practice of ahimsa (another sanskrit word) which means non harming-non violence. Its really important to practice your self compassion. We aren’t pressuring ourselves. We are already perfect exactly the way we are. We really are. We are just living with intention in the constantly changing flow that is life. Right here and right now. Good luck to you and all the best in 2012!

Thanks for another great year! Looking forward to seeing you back in class next week (in 2012)!!

2011-12-28T20:53:00.001-08:00

Hap-hap-hap-y New Year to you!

smart kid

2011-12-27T09:31:00.001-08:00

yodelay ho ho

2011-12-21T08:47:00.001-08:00

And I think to myself...what a wonderful world.

2011-12-21T08:31:00.000-08:00

David Attenborough-Wonderful world-BBC

Heres what the new year is looking like for me so far!

2011-12-17T13:55:00.001-08:00

You really must click the image to enlarge (due to my lack of computer skills haha..)

I haven't updated my winter schedule on here quite yet but heres a quick look at when classes are and where! Mount Pleasant's classes start up again on Dec 26 (Mon) and Dec 28 (Wed) and ALL my Roundhouse classes start up the following week (first week of Jan.)

Hope everybody is having a really stellar weekend. Thanks for all your support over the years and sharing your practice with me. Can't believe 2012 will be number 8!

Read this quote a week ago and haven't been able to get it out of my mind.

2011-12-17T11:16:00.000-08:00

"If people knew how hard I had to work to gain my mastery, it wouldn't seem wonderful at all." MICHELANGELO-Renaissance sculptor and painter who spent 4 years lying on his back painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel

We are shaped by our thoughts

2011-12-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.  ~ Buddha Quote ~

If you had one wish for Christmas what would it be?

2011-12-14T16:39:00.001-08:00

John Lennon answers in the video below:

Peace on Earth.

That implies no violence.

No starving children.

No violent minds.

No violent households.

No frustration.

No fear.

"We think the future is made in your mind"

I've have had quite a few yoga students confide in me lately. This isn't always the greatest time of year for everyone.

2011-12-14T09:38:00.001-08:00

I have likely posted this in the past, but I just came across it again in my documents and thought I'd repost. There are some real words of wisdom written here. Keep your chin (s) up and don't lose hope! You know who you are...

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and the Divine. It was never between you and them anyway. -Mother Teresa

Mindfulness=Stress Reduction

2011-12-13T10:15:00.000-08:00

HERE is an article I wrote for Vancouvermom.ca last week on stress reduction and mindfulness over the holidays (and anytime).

Its full of self care tips and things that have helped me.

And if they have helped me,they can help anyone! Believe me. I have a stress disorder!

I love Vancouvermom.ca and I believe its the greatest resource out there for mom's, dad's and families. If you haven't already, check it out HERE

Hope you are keeping your cool this holiday season. Namaste.

I think we all know that its the season for more than joy. Its the season for heart attacks.

2011-12-13T08:23:00.001-08:00

Its likely all the rich foods, booze, and all the pressure. None of us are immune.

A girlfriend of mine emailed me this the other day, and its been on my mind ever since so thought i'd copy it on here.

Its an account by an ER Nurse (female) and her own experience having a heart attack. Both my dad and my grandmother had heart attacks in their early 40's, and being in my late 40's right now its something its something thats never far from my mind. None of us are immune to having a heart attack and women have very different (and often ignored) symptoms.

Below is her account. its long, but worth a read and worth sharing with your loved ones.

I am an ER nurse and this is the best description of this event that I have ever heard. Please read, and pay attention.

FEMALE HEART ATTACKS

Women and heart attacks (Myocardial infarction). Did you know that women rarely have the same dramatic symptoms that men have when experiencing heart attack.. you know, the sudden stabbing pain in the chest, the cold sweat, grabbing the chest & dropping to the floor that we see in the movies. Here is the story of one woman's experience with a heart attack.

'I had a heart attack at about 10:30 PM with NO prior exertion, NO prior emotional trauma that one would suspect might have brought it on. I was sitting all snugly & warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story my friend had sent me, and actually thinking, 'A-A-h, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up.

A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you've been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water, and that hurried bite seems to feel like you've swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion and it is most uncomfortable. You realize you shouldn't have gulped it down so fast and needed to chew it more thoroughly and this time drink a glass of water to hasten its progress down to the stomach. This was my initial sensation--the only trouble was that I hadn't taken a bite of anything since about 5:00 p.m.

After it seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my SPINE (hind-sight, it was probably my aorta spasms), gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum (breast bone, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR).

This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws. 'AHA!! NOW I stopped puzzling about what was happening -- we all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws being one of the signals of an MI happening, haven't we? I said aloud to myself and the cat, Dear God, I think I'm having a heart attack!

I lowered the foot rest dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, If this is a heart attack, I shouldn't be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else... but, on the other hand, if I don't, nobody will know that I need help, and if I wait any longer I may not be able to get up in a moment.

I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair, walked slowly into the next room and dialed the Paramedics... I told her I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure building under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. I didn't feel hysterical or afraid, just stating the facts. She said she was sending the Paramedics over immediately, asked if the front door was near to me, and if so, to un-bolt the door and then lie down on the floor where they could see me when they came in.

I unlocked the door and then laid down on the floor as instructed and lost consciousness, as I don't remember the medics coming in, their examination, lifting me onto a gurney or getting me into their ambulance, or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER on the way, but I did briefly awaken when we arrived and saw that the radiologist was already there in his surgical blues and cap, helping the medics pull my stretcher out of the ambulance. He was bending over me asking questions (probably something like 'Have you taken any medications?') but I couldn't make my mind interpret what he was saying, or form an answer, and nodded off again, not waking up until the Cardiologist and partner had already threaded the teeny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed 2 side by side stints to hold open my right coronary artery.

I know it sounds like all my thinking and actions at home must have taken at least 20-30 minutes before calling the paramedics, but actually it took perhaps 4-5 minutes before the call, and both the fire station and St Jude are only minutes away from my home, and my Cardiologist was already to go to the OR in his scrubs and get going on restarting my heart (which had stopped somewhere between my arrival and the procedure) and installing the stints.
Why have I written all of this to you with so much detail? Because I want all of you who are so important in my life to know what I learned first hand.

1 Be aware that something very different is happening in your body, not the usual men's symptoms but inexplicable things happening (until my sternum and jaws got into the act). It is said that many more women than men die of their first (and last) MI because they didn't know they were having one and commonly mistake it as indigestion, take some Maalox or other anti-heartburn preparation and go to bed, hoping they'll feel better in the morning when they wake up... which doesn't happen. My female friends, your symptoms might not be exactly like mine, so I advise you to call the Paramedics if ANYTHING is unpleasantly happening that you've not felt before. It is better to have a 'false alarm' visitation than to risk your life guessing what it might be!

2. Note that I said 'Call the Paramedics.' And if you can take an aspirin. Ladies, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!

Do NOT try to drive yourself to the ER - you are a hazard to others on the road.

Do NOT have your panicked husband who will be speeding and looking anxiously at what's happening with you instead of the road.

Do NOT call your doctor -- he doesn't know where you live and if it's at night you won't reach him anyway, and if it's daytime, his assistants (or answering service) will tell you to call the Paramedics. He doesn't carry the equipment in his car that you need to be saved! The Paramedics do, principally OXYGEN that you need ASAP. Your Dr will be notified later.

3. Don't assume it couldn't be a heart attack because you have a normal cholesterol count. Research has discovered that a cholesterol elevated reading is rarely the cause of an MI (unless it's unbelievably high and/or accompanied by high blood pressure). MIs are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into your system to sludge things up in there. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

anybody out there you need to forgive?

2011-12-11T22:49:00.001-08:00

“Forgiveness does not change the past, but it does enlarge the future.” ~Paul Boese

I love the ripple effect.

2011-12-11T09:33:00.001-08:00

It takes very little to create real change. Love this little video. Glad I came across it this morning. Goes perfect with that morning coffee :)

A little weekend holiday humour

2011-12-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

A really inspiring talk on nutrition and MS

2011-12-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

We can't always change our outer world but we really can change our inner world.

2011-12-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

Meditation makes us more resilient. One moment at a time is all it takes. Whether you have a formal meditation practice or not, just "be here now" as often as you can.

If you 'd like to meditate/learn to meditate in a group setting I'd love to show you. Thats exactly what we do when we practice our Yoga. We not only change our body, we change our brain. Its never about perfectionism, and thats why its called a "practice". All of my classes are perfect for beginners and affordable. Registration at Mount Pleasant CC (Main @Broadway) is on now. Registration for The Roundhouse starts this Friday Dec 9 (online) and Sat the 10th in person/by phone.

its almost 2012!

2011-12-07T08:55:00.001-08:00

If you're looking for a 2012 calendar for that special someone I recommend Thich Nhat Hanh's. It's really beautiful and full of lovely quotes from him and artwork by Adam Guan (you can click my pic to enlarge).

Below is a beautiful video of Thay and his calligraphy. I really hope to purchase a piece on his next tour. I didn't have the cash this time around but felt so lucky to hear him speak just the same. Namaste.

Every Dec 1st two things come to mind when I awaken...

2011-12-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

The AIDS crisis and the Montreal Massacre (Dec 6 '89) and I just can't help it.

And I believe its a good thing as neither one should ever be forgotten.

Its world AIDS Day and HIV/AIDS Awareness week in Canada.

I remember the years before this horrible disease was discovered and changed our lives forever. I was just reading that there are 34 million people in the world living with HIV and that 80% do not have access to treatment.Thats so tragic.The numbers of people here in Canada (and everywhere else) continues to rise.

Apparently most teens believe that there is a cure for HIV...and of course there is not. More reason to educate our children is that: According to the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research (“CANFAR”): “A quarter of Canadians with HIV are not aware of their infection and young adults (aged 15-29) account for approximately 26 per cent of all people diagnosed with HIV in Canada."

**Don't forget The Shanti Uganda Society **and all they do in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Shanti's Mission statement is:

"The Shanti Uganda Society improves infant and maternal health, provides safe women-centred care and supports the well-being of birthing mothers and women living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda." and helping is so easy and the ways are countless.

click here for more info.

One last note is that ALL Vancouver Whole Foods locations will be donating 5% of their net sales today to Aids Vancouver Grocery! Click here for more info on that.

Have a FAB day friends and Happy December! Hard to believe its here already.

You really want to go to this, and it's this weekend!

2011-11-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

The details are on the poster and its going to be fab! (you can click to enlarge).
A lovely yoga student pal of mine puts this on each year and has even donated "free of charge" a booth for my beloved Shanti Uganda Society! There will be some really truly amazing local craft vendors too, so if you are around and in the hood... grab a toonie and go!
Can't believe the holidays are so near. Have fun!

Compassion. If you have any enemies, feel compassion for them too.

2011-11-30T08:58:00.001-08:00

Meditation is simply about being yourself and knowing who that is.

2011-11-29T14:43:00.000-08:00

“It is about coming to realize that you are on a path whether you like it or not, namely the path that is your life.” ~ Jon Kabat-Zinn.

Let's help those less fortunate stay warm over the winter months.

2011-11-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

Do you have any blankets, hats, mitts and scarves etc that are just taking up space in your closets that you'd like to donate to keep someone warm this holiday season?

My partner Silas and I can make it really easy for ya...

If you come to any of my classes on a Tuesday Wednesday OR Thursdays (sorry not my Monday classes), you can bring them to me and we would happily take them to a shelter for you!

Some years we are more successful than others in doing this, but we are hoping to collect lots, and we always have plenty of time over the holidays to make deliveries.

If you do not come to my yoga classes and live in in the Vancouver area feel free to Facebook me OR email me at yoginilori@gmail.com and we can arrange for a pick up!

Please DO NOT drop items off at my workplaces. They can not accept them. Happy Holidays friends. Stay safe xx

If you come to my classes you know about fascia (and likely have rolled a tennis ball under your foot etc).

2011-11-28T07:47:00.000-08:00

Just beneath your skin lies a complex network of connective tissue called fascia. It helps you move well, stand straight and play hard. Keeping it healthy might be one of the fastest — and most overlooked — ways to improve your health and fitness.

The below link is a great article on fascia.

The Web of Life

Amy Purdy talks about imagination. What a hero.

2011-11-27T09:48:00.000-08:00

Amy Purdy talks about the power of imagination. She explains how our lives are not determined by what happens to us, but by the choices we make. Imagination allows us to break down borders, to move beyond our circumstances, to create and constantly progress.

Amy Purdy has been through hardships that most of us will never face -- or can even fathom. But what makes her story so incredible is not that fact that she lived a "normal" childhood and spent her high school years as a passionate artist and snowboarder, then traumatically lost both her legs at age 19, but how she has persevered, taking implausible challenges and rising above them.

Today, Amy is an athlete; currently the top ranked adaptive female snowboarder in the world. Amy also spends a good amount of time helping others; specifically those with physical challenges get involved with snowboarding, skateboarding, wakeboarding and other action sports through the organization she co-founded Adaptive Action Sports. Challenging herself while making a positive impact on the world is a true testament to Amy's spirit.

2011-11-27T09:15:00.000-08:00

"Meditation practice isn't about trying to throw ourselves away or become something better. It's about befriending who we are already." - Pema Chodron

Hey look. It's all of our lives.

2011-11-27T08:45:00.001-08:00

A really beautiful ad for marriage equality.

Please join us in protesting the BC government's proposed cuts to newborn health visits.

2011-11-24T15:52:00.000-08:00

“All mothers and newborns should receive a visit from a public health nurse, if they want or need one."

These visits are a godsend to new moms when they are at their most vulnerable. They help detect post-partum depression, jaundice, breast feeding issues and much more. These problems ...cut across socio-economic lines. Funding for this decades old program should not be cut!

On Friday November 25 at 11:30am, Parents for BC Babies will gather outside Premier Christy Clark's Vancouver office at 3615 W. 4th Ave to protest her government's decision to cut public health nurse visits to women who have just given birth.

Hope to see you there! Bring your stories of why/how much a nurses home visit mattered to you and your newborn and new family.

Here is the BC Nurses Union petition for you to share and sign.

Let everyone that you meet on this day be blessed by you.

2011-11-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

I woke up on the wrong side of the bed today and this was exactly what I needed to watch. If you watch only one thing all day, let it be this.

This is beautiful. Occupy love.

2011-11-19T18:50:00.001-08:00

2011-11-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

Have you had a C-section recently?

2011-11-18T21:29:00.000-08:00

Free Postnatal massage- A small group of BC registered massage therapists who study under Paula Jaspar (also an RMT and mentor), will be studying/ practicing massage therapy care of women “after birthing by C-section” Sunday Nov 20^th from 2-3pm if you are interested. Must be 6 weeks post-partum.

Baby is welcome to come too of course! Each mother will receive treatment by one massage therapist for one hour, free of cost. (Under the guidance of Paula Jaspar).

For more info or contact regarding this : Marie Arcand, RMT at 604 732 7272

P.S. You will love Marie! She is a fellow gardener from my community garden and a wonderful RMT!

With these uncertain times and all that is going on we must remember all the pure goodness around us.

2011-11-17T10:22:00.000-08:00

And Louis Armstrong said it best:

I see trees of green, red roses too

I see them bloom for me and you

And I think to myself what a wonderful world.I see skies of blue and clouds of white

The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of people going by
I see friends shaking hands saying how do you do
They're really saying I love you.

I hear babies cry, I watch them grow
They'll learn much more than I'll never know
And I think to myself what a wonderful world
Yes I think to myself what a wonderful world.

Are you in pain? Have a loved one in pain? Exciting research coming out of the neuroscience lab.

2011-11-17T07:55:00.001-08:00

So sad to hear that Vicodin is the the most prescribed drug in the US right now but I totally believe it, and I'm sure pain killers are right up there in Canada as well. Being in pain really impacts your life on every level and I just love all the research coming out of the neuroscience labs. I am not the most 'mystical' yoga teacher out there. I am a lover of science and of course yoga, as well as psychological research so I really love these studies and every single day there are more and more and more of them. Our brains really are like plastic and with practice a.k.a. yoga "practice"/meditation etc. (why its called a practice) we really can rewire our brains and suffer less on every level.

Mindfulness meditation truly makes us not only more resilient, but less reactive and compassionate to ourselves, as well as others, so we can be more tolerant of the experience.

Be your own scientist and see for yourself. Meditation is like a muscle that you strengthen each and every time you practice. Come and practice with me anytime. I keep my classes very affordable and there is a mat with your name on it. Just bring yourself.

Yoga provides us with tools for our whole life. Free ones. All you need to do learn and then practice them. Namaste.

Love this.

2011-11-16T23:40:00.001-08:00

“Just as treasures are uncovered from the earth, so virtue appears from good deeds, and wisdom appears from a pure and peaceful mind. To walk safely through the maze of human life, one needs the light of wisdom and the guidance of virtue.” ~Buddha

Need a chuckle this fine Monday morning?

2011-11-14T08:07:00.000-08:00

My friend Angie posted this on her Facebook page this morning and I had to repost!

hahaha...Its HIGHlarious! I think we've all been here :)

Beryl Bender Birch

2011-11-13T19:15:00.001-08:00

Beryl Bender Birch "Transformation Happens" from Omega Institute on Vimeo.

More than 100,000 Canadian Soldiers died in conflicts since 1899-Lest we forget

2011-11-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

Heading out momentarily to the Victory Square Cenotaph. Every year my partner and I go down for the Remembrance Day Ceremonies and Parade. Its a tradition for us and we don't miss it. There are celebrations all over the province today. Wherever you are, I know we are all breathing the same air. Namaste.

Love and Shadow at OCCUPY Vancouver-with Michael Stone

2011-11-08T07:18:00.000-08:00

Two days ago Michael Stone took a stroll down to Occupy Vancouver and had this to say.

A monk asks Tozan "When the cold and heat come how should one avoid them?"

2011-11-06T21:27:00.000-08:00

Michael Stone Dharma Talk: Let the Heat Kill You from Centre of Gravity on Vimeo.

Tozan says: "When its cold, let the cold kill you. When its hot, let the heat kill you."

Let it kill the Storyteller. In every moment you have a choice. Love or fear.

I love Michael Stone. This is one of my favourite talks of his. Its time to post it again.

Whether you are for or against Occupy Vancouver...

2011-11-06T07:14:00.000-08:00

Michael Stone (click here) will be giving a 20 minute talk there TODAY (Sunday Nov 6) at noon at Occupy Vancouver, followed by a discussion- "the next stage of the occupy movement will be dealing with conflict. What can we do?"

This is HUGE! Birthing from Within Prenatal Class - by donation in support of Shanti Uganda

2011-11-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

If you know me you know ALL about the Shanti Uganda Society and why I am so proud to be a 2011 Ambassador!

And if you are into birth and live in Vancouver you know all about my fellow Ambassador Sarah juliusson and Dancing Star Birth!

Dancing Star Birth is doing a donation prenatal education class with ALL of the funds going to Shanti Uganda!

Its a great way for those who might not be able to afford the regular $260 to pay what they can. Suggested donation is

$100 - $500 (but whatever amount you are able to donate is fine!) They recognize that each of you is making a real and important contribution to global maternal-child health. All contributions of $280 or more will receive a tax receipt from Shanti Uganda.

This is just such an amazing thing.

if you haven't been on Shanti's site lately I really can't encourage you enough to go and read up on the latest happenings. Get ready to be really, REALLY inspired. Click here for more info on Shanti Uganda and here for Dancing Star Birth and all they do! Namaste xo

Its a horrifying topic but I am feeling compelled to share.

2011-11-04T21:05:00.000-07:00

Just got in from a TRULY amazing day at The Vancouver Yoga Conference, and believe me...YOU want to go! (For more info click here)! It goes on all weekend long and maybe i'll see ya there? Makes me feel grateful to live in Vancouver.

Anyways, upon arriving home while checking my Facebook I saw this item on strokes and really felt the need to share. I am copying word for word the post I read and here it is courtesy of Biomechanist Katy Bowman, MS of Aligned and Well.

She has some VERY interesting things on her website and Facebook page by the way!

Anyways, I am copying this post word for word from her and here it is:

This is a quick must-read for everyone. Strokes, if they are caught soon enough can be a much-less significant event. Learn the signs...

You can Save someone's life by sharing this.

STROKE: Remember The 1st Three Letters... S.T..R ...
My friend sent this to me ...and encouraged me to post it and spread the word. I agree. If everyone can remember something this simple, we could save some folks.

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:
During a party, a friend stumbled and took a little fall - she assured everyone that she was fine and just tripped over a brick because of her new shoes. (they offered to call ambulance)

They got her cleaned up and got her a new plate of food - while she appeared a bit shaken up, Ingrid went about enjoying herself the rest of the evening. Ingrid's husband called later telling everyone that his wife had been taken to the hospital - (at 6:00pm , Ingrid passed away.)
She had suffered a stroke at the party . Had they known how to identify the signs of a stroke, perhaps Ingrid would be with us today.

Some don't die. They end up in a helpless, hopeless condition instead. It only takes a minute to read this...

STROKE IDENTIFICATION:

A neurologist says that if he can get to a stroke victim within 3 hours he can totally reverse the effects of a stroke...totally. He said the trick was getting a stroke recognized, diagnosed, and then getting the patient medically cared for within 3 hours, which is tough.

RECOGNIZING A STROKE

Remember the '3' steps, STR . Read and Learn!
Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster.
The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke.
Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions :

S * Ask the individual to SMILE ..
T * = TALK. Ask the person to SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (eg 'It is sunny out today').
R * Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS .

If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call the ambulance and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.

NOTE : Another 'sign' of a stroke is
1. Ask the person to 'stick' out their tongue.
2. If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other that is also an indication of a stroke.

A prominent cardiologist says if everyone who gets this status shares it; you can bet that at least one life will be saved.

Pretend today is going to be great.

2011-11-02T07:39:00.001-07:00

Do so, and it will be. Research shows that although we think that we act because of the way we feel, in fact, we often feel because of the way we act. A great attitude always leads to great experiences.- Fred Tracy

Last Halloween post then I'm packin' it in for another year.

2011-10-31T22:30:00.001-07:00

Fright Nights on Oct 30. Good ghoulish times :)

hahaha...chainsaw guy was pretty funny :)

Happy Halloween friends!

2011-10-31T09:20:00.001-07:00

See you on the mat boys and ghouls :)

The Arts.

2011-10-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

No idea who wrote this but I think we'd all agree.Where would we be without art? ♥

Fan of the macabre? I am. warning- only watch if you dare.

2011-10-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

Dr. Warren Chapin- Ladies and gentlemen, please do not panic! But SCREAM! Scream for your lives!

Fact-Janet Leigh never again took showers after filming Psycho.

(When asked if it was true that she doesn't take showers) "It's actually, honestly true. And not because of the shooting of it. It was the seeing of it. It never dawned on me how truly vulnerable we are. But that's what Alfred Hitchcock did". A shower. A bird. All these things that are absolutely ordinary, he made extraordinary. –Janet Leigh 1027-2004

“One thing is certain: the arts keep you alive. They stimulate, encourage, challenge, and, most of all, guarantee a future free from boredom. They allow growth and even demand it in that time of life we call maturity but too often enter it with a childish faith that what we learned in youth is sustenance enough for the years when most men are mentally famished but won't admit it—or when they are apt to curb their hunger with the sops of complacency, security, and the assurance of death.”- Vincent Price

The schoolhouse, in Bodega Bay, California, has also been known to be haunted, even back during the filming. According to Tippi Hedren, the entire cast was spooked to be there. She also mentioned how she had the feeling, while there, that "the building was immensely populated... but there was nobody there." When Hitchcock was told about the schoolhouse being haunted, according to Hedren, he was even more encouraged to film there.

In the scene where the fishbowl falls to the ground, (dead) sardines painted orange were used in place of actual goldfish, which director Richard Donner refused to kill for the sake of making a movie.

You can click on the image to enlarge (and I hope you do).

2011-10-28T13:20:00.002-07:00

This is really worth contemplating. Feel free to share and re-share. I really hope things change one day. I have posted this on both my Facebook pages, Twittered it, and now posted it here.

pills pills pills. lives are wrecked by them and others saved.

2011-10-28T09:56:00.001-07:00

Have you cleaned out your medicine chest lately? I have been doing my fall cleaning and attacking one cupboard at a time and feel like its never going to end. The above bag is from my own cupboard and its larger then it looks. I was amazed by it actually. Although it has no actual pharmaceuticals in it and very few (if any) were actually bought at a "drug store/pharmacy", all drug stores will gladly toss them in their bio-hazard for us, which is wonderful as I'm sure we all know by now the environmental concerns of throwing them in the trash and flushing/ pouring them down the drain etc. with trace drug residues in our water supply/community drinking water and such.

But what do you do with tinctures/liquids and salves ? The truth is, I just don't know. And neither does anyone else seem to.

Even after speaking with two different London Drug Pharmacists, two different Choices Markets locations, and even The Recycling Council of British Columbia (click here for them- an AMAZING resource) this morning I still don't quite know for sure...

One Pharmacist when I asked what they did with liquids told me that he just sends them back to the manufacturer. Somebody else said to throw them in the garbage and to mix it (the substance) in with used coffee grounds or kitty litter, and still another person told me to just flush them. (the latter I am not willing to do). The Recycling Council dude and I had a really great conversation about lots of issues, and they really are a terrific resource. In the end on this topic he said that its really hard to mandate every single product we have/use but we are really close in BC to having to having that happen! Isn't that exciting?

In the meanwhile I'll just hang onto my tinctures until I learn of the best way to dispose of them.

If you have any suggestions feel free to pass them along. As well, I'll repost on this topic should I get the answer. Namaste.

Its almost time for the Shanti Love Project!!!

2011-10-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

Have you got your ticket?

It's THIS Saturday Oct 29, and the event is one of a kind and has lot's for everyone! And prizes? There are prizes/raffles/silent auction items galore. And I mean GALORE including West Jet tickets, visits with Naturopaths, Yoga, yoga and more yoga all over this beautiful city of ours (including some with me)! , Garden works certificates, toys for children, Norwex cleaning products, clothing, tons of delicious body work and seriously the list goes on and on...and on!

Check out the event and list of goodies for yourself by clicking here

Even if you have Halloween party plans you can still stop by beforehand. The event is at Semperviva City location. #100-1985 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC (Corner of Maple Street in the Wawanesa Building)

All funds raised this evening will contribute to Shanti's work to reduce infant and maternal mortality in Uganda. For more info on The Shanti Uganda Society and why it means so much to this Ambassador click here and Happy Halloween!

2011-10-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

Only the man who learns to relax is able to create, and for him ideas reach the mind like lightening. Cicero

Be sure and watch...

2011-10-25T00:09:00.000-07:00

Watch your habits, for they become your posture.
Watch your posture, for it creates your boundaries.
Watch your boundaries, for they restrict your growth.

Watch your restrictions, for they create immobility.
Watch your immobility, for it becomes your illness.

-Katy Bowman

Day after day...

2011-10-24T22:00:00.000-07:00

Let the yogi practice harmony of soul: in a secret place, in deep solitude, master of his mind, hoping for nothing, desiring nothing. Bhagavad Gita

Use it or literally lose it. remember your yoga practice

2011-10-23T21:46:00.001-07:00

Its been a couple of years since I have posted this Gil Hedley video but it is brilliant and describes so clearly the fascia, and how critical it is to move our body/the sliding surfaces of our body every single day. Otherwise the fuzz literally builds, and builds, and builds.

A facebook discussion on my own self myofascial release this evening prompted me to post this video again. MOVE MOVE MOVE your body, and lose the fuzz. And feel delicious. Remember your yoga practice :)

Ever have a day just go completely sideways on ya?

2011-10-20T09:46:00.001-07:00

Oh yesterday was that sort of day for me. Sigh..

Thankfully today is a new day.

My biggest disappointment yesterday when my afternoon went horribly wrong was not being able to go to a Shanti Uganda Society event I had been looking forward to for weeks and weeks. I got my hair done, picked up the clothes from the cleaners (not a fan of dry cleaners ) when sadly life threw me a curve ball and attending became impossible. Other than having a big fat cry and trying to remedy a situation in which I had absolutely no control I thought...

How do I make something good out of something bad?

And I I purchased a Fence Post. *See Post For Peace to find out all about what the fence project is about.

There are so many ways to support this marvelous organization, and like Rumi said: There are a hundred ways to kneel and kiss the ground

For all other happenings/upcoming events and ways YOU can make a difference click here, and be sure to get on their mailing list. Get ready to be blown away!

Pelvic floor issues for men? Yup. you betcha.

2011-10-19T08:32:00.001-07:00

Just last evening I looked in the faces of about 20 women and told them that even if they didn't have babies/have a vaginal birth/wound up having a c-section/were a man etc. our pelvic floors can become compromised no matter who we are for various reasons. I looked at them point blank (the previous day I told even more...25-30 people easily) that even my own pelvic floor is changing and I haven't even ever had a baby. I certainly wouldn't call it compromised in any sense of the word thankfully, but at 47 it's just a little different. And if you live long enough you'll notice too that things just change a little bit. Its not bad and difficult to explain. The bottom line (pun intended haha) we ALL need to take care of our pelvic floors, thats all. Those muscles are holding our internal organs in there, babies in there, women use those muscles to push baby out if they deliver vaginally, and men too need to keep a strong and healthy pelvic floor to support the organs and core and spine just as we do because everything is connected. The latest research seems to speak of really strengthening the adductors and to keeping that lumbar curve while sitting. Saw this video this morning and thought I'd share. See ya at yoga! Registration is on. Namaste.

Is this not the most idyllic scene? I hope to dream about this very place tonight :)

2011-10-17T22:23:00.000-07:00

"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth
seeking the successive autumns."
- George Eliot

mmm...mmm....garden.

2011-10-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

Have you planted your garlic yet? Its the easiest thing in the world.

2011-10-17T08:03:00.001-07:00

And you can keep those vampires away this Halloween ;)

Our breasts. Watch them, feel them regularly.

2011-10-13T06:39:00.000-07:00

Its that time again folks. Register today for all new sessions with me!

2011-10-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

New sessions are as follows:

Mount Pleasant Community Centre

To register click here or call 604-257-3080

Monday's

Baby and Me Yoga 10:45am-12:00pm Nov 7-Dec 19

Daytime Yoga 12:30-2:00pm Nov 7-Dec 19

Wednesday's

Daytime Yoga 12:30-2:00pm Nov 2-Dec 21

Prenatal Yoga 6:30-7:45pm Nov 2-Dec 21

Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre

To register click here or call 604-713-1800

Tuesday's

Prenatal Yoga 5:45-7:15pm Nov 1-Dec 20

Mixed Levels Hatha 7:30pm-9:00pm Nov 1-Dec 20

Thursdays

Baby and Me Yoga 12:30pm-2:00pm Nov 3-Dec 22

Prenatal Yoga 5:45pm-7:15pm Nov 3-Dec 22

Yoga for Limited Mobility 7:30pm-8:30pm Nov 3-Dec 22

Like squash? Wild Rice? Roasted pecans?

2011-10-11T11:07:00.001-07:00

Mmmm...this recipe was so delicious. I am about to embark on some leftovers for lunch! The only thing I screwed up on was, I sliced the squash down the middle instead of lengthwise. (didn't seem to matter too much). Made them a little wobbly, thats all.

Here it is: Roasted Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing

Ingredients-

3 medium acorn squash (about 1 1/2 pounds each), halved lengthwise and seeds removed

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar

1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

2 medium shallots, finely chopped

4 celery stalks, finely chopped

1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves

2 cups cooked wild rice mix (1 cup uncooked)

2/3 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped

1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat the oven to 450°F and arrange a rack in the middle.
Place squash cut side up on a baking sheet, brush 1 tablespoon of the melted butter over the tops and insides of the squash halves, sprinkle with brown sugar, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast in the oven until just fork tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, place 1 tablespoon of the melted butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. When it foams, add the onion, shallots, and celery, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and stir to coat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in the thyme and cook until just fragrant, about 1 minute.
Remove from heat and stir in the rice, pecans, cranberries, and measured salt and pepper.
Divide the rice filling among the roasted squash halves (about 1/2 cup for each) and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of butter over top. Continue roasting until the squash is completely fork tender, the edges have started to brown, and the filling is heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes.

Be honest and sincere anyway

2011-10-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

The verses below were written on the wall of Mother Teresa’s home for children in Calcutta, India and are attributed to her:

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and the Divine. It was never between you and them anyway.

I am so grateful for all of you.

2011-10-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.

~Melodie Beattie

I like to stroll in my neighborhood.

2011-10-10T10:12:00.000-07:00

Pay it forward and change the world.

2011-09-29T07:50:00.000-07:00

Our stunning universe. Enjoy.

2011-09-28T10:56:00.000-07:00

What's on your nightstand?

2011-09-28T08:30:00.001-07:00

Its Raise -a-Reader Day!

This is my nightstand right now (although I tidied it up and took away the magazines.) And this is 'just' the nightstand which doesn't include the overflowing bookcases or the stacks of books everywhere that won't fit in the bookcases.

I ♥ books and always have! And some magazines too. Never been a fan of fiction, but I love learning, reading and holding, and flipping through the pages of a book. Love the computer too of course, but I certainly hope that books (and libraries) never go out of style. They sure won't at this house.

Support the Raise-a-Reader Campaign today to help increase awareness and raise money to fund children and family literacy programs in BC!

Click HERE to find out all about Raise a Reader!

Shanti Uganda's charity event "An evening of Art" is less than 3 weeks away!

2011-09-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

The funds raised at An evening of Art will contribute to Shanti's work to reduce infant and maternal mortality in Uganda. This Ambassador really hopes to see you there as its going to be super fun!

It's best to get your tickets sooner rather than later as it usually sells out! Click here for tickets and more info.

2011-09-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

When you realize how perfect everything is, you will tilt your head back and laugh at the sky. - Buddha

Come back to life with Yoga!

2011-09-23T16:46:00.000-07:00

Vancouvers Yoga Outreach and ad agency St John created this ad and I love it!

Yoga Outreach is a Vancouver based registered charity. their mission is to identify, develop and deliver healing and life-affirming yoga programs to people who can not directly access these resources. Yoga Outreach partners with volunteer teachers and facilities and organizations to provide free yoga.

To find out more about this wonderful charity and the challenge click here

Great advice

2011-09-22T10:34:00.001-07:00

Life is short, live it. Love is rare, grab it. Anger is bad, dump it. Fear is awful, face it. Memories are sweet, cherish them. - Unknown

Happy International day of peace today. Spread it far and wide! Be it!

2011-09-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace. Jimi Hendrix

2011-09-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

Even if you don't have time for anything else, take a few minutes each day to stop and focus on your breath. Incorporating a daily breathing practice into your routine builds a tremendous resource for bringing yourself back to centre when you are stressed, upset or disturbed. The ability to sit easily and quietly even for a few minutes frees you from tensions which drain your energy. Bringing your attention to your body and your breath brings you into the present moment.

Looks like I've got a favourite playwright

2011-09-16T07:51:00.000-07:00

And his name is John P Shanley...

Choose Life over the other stuff. Get out of your head. Live. Dress up. Eat. Touch people. Help out. Give up. Love people. Give your best away. There's more. What's the problem? Relax. You're going to die. Throw a party. Eat off my plate. Sing to me. Meet me in the bedroom. Get a massage. Give one. Let your amazement out into the room. Pry open the box you hide your joy in. Be a poem. - John P. Shanley. Via Ntara.

I might be weird but I love ageing and always have (It sure beats the alternative!)

2011-09-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

And I love these two. Hopefully we'll still be full of fun and learning new things when we get a little older too. This video is sweet and unscripted.

This makes me happy ♥

2011-09-12T22:25:00.000-07:00

I love my community.

2011-09-10T09:13:00.001-07:00

Today I am off to a garden party/potluck at my community garden. Its where my fellow gardeners (neighbors/people from the community/folks from all walks of life) get caught up, clean up, work together planting, pulling weeds, etc... We just basically work together doing whatever projects that need to be done. And we visit, get caught up with each other, and make new connections. Its really nice. Even in the pouring rain its nice.

It just just got me thinking about community this morning and the sheer importance of it, especially in this day and age. Whatever you choose to get involved in not only benefits you but it benefits the whole community. Children of all ages can get involved in community/volunteer projects as well, and they can learn a lot of great skills while they're at it. And its so fun and rewarding.

Heres a great quote by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. on community;

"What should young people do with their lives today? many things obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured."

It sure is a beautiful world we live in. Its important to make connections and be there for each other. Namaste.

Let's be extra kind today because heck, why not?

2011-09-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

This made me cry! haha.. (yeah, i'm a sap)

I love this and its so true..

2011-09-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Happy September everybody!

2011-09-01T10:03:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it's September already! No wonder I awoke with the above tune in my head!

(not kidding, I really did. I really was around when that song came out haha).

It's time for transitions of all kinds. Hectic schedules, cooler temperatures and shorter days are on the way for all of us.

Feels strange having the rest of the week off as we transition from our Summer sessions to Fall. I hope you'll remember to include your own self care in your fall plans/scheduling.

Fall is a time to turn inward, and you can not be available to anyone else in a healthy way if your needs aren't meant. Don't forget precious "you" time whether that includes a Yoga practice or something else.

Yoga-wise I have classes for absolutely everybody of every age and ability. Both during the day and in the evening starting next week at the Roundhouse and the following week at Mount Pleasant.

At The Roundhouse Arts and Community Centre-604-713-1800

Tues Sept 6 - Prenatal Yoga 5:45-7:15pm & Mixed Levels 7:30pm-9:00pm

Thurs Sept 8 - Baby and Me Yoga 12:30-2:00pm , Prenatal Yoga 5:45-715pm and *new* Yoga for Limited Mobility 7:30-8:30pm

At Mount Pleasant Community Centre -604-257-3080

Mon Sept 12- Baby and me Yoga 1045am-1215 and Daytime Yoga 1230-2pm

Wed Sept 14- Daytime Yoga 12:30-2:00pm and Prenatal Yoga 6:30-7:45pm

Thanks for a great summer!

Wishing you energy, vitality and health this fall & hope to see you on the mat!

(My Facebook Page Yoga with Lori Lucas can be found here and is updated daily as well).

Namaste xx

Don't know of any better birth preparation than yoga

2011-08-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

The practice involves not just exercise but mindfulness as well, opening both your body and mind to what lies ahead. A study of 74 first-time mothers in Thailand found that those who did prenatal yoga experienced less pain and a shorter labour.

Whether you believed in his politics, or not...

2011-08-22T15:34:00.000-07:00

Jack Layton was greatly loved by Canadians. RIP Jack Layton. 1950-2011

This past Saturday (less than 48 hours before he died), Jack Layton penned a very moving two page letter to Canadians. The letter can be found here.

Politics aside here are a just a couple of excerpts:

“Unfortunately, my treatment has not worked out as I hoped,” he wrote. “So I am giving this letter to my partner Olivia to share with you in the circumstance in which I cannot continue.”

To other Canadians who are on journeys to defeat cancer and to live their lives, I say this: please don’t be discouraged that my own journey hasn’t gone as well as I had hoped. You must not lose your own hope. Treatments and therapies have never been better in the face of this disease. You have every reason to be optimistic, determined, and focused on the future. My only other advice is to cherish every moment with those you love at every stage of your journey, as I have done this summer.

My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world." -August 20 2011-Jack Layton 1950-2011

2011-08-22T08:40:00.001-07:00

“In meditation, effort must be applied in a direction opposite to what we are used to. Our ‘effort’ must be to relax ever more deeply. We must ultimately release the tension from both our muscles and our thoughts. When we relax so deeply that we are able to internalize the energy of the senses, the mind becomes focused and a tremendous flow of energy is awakened. Meditation is a continuous process, and can be said to have three stages: relaxation, interiorization, and expansion.” – John Novak, Lessons in Meditation.

Here is my fall schedule and the time to register is now :)

2011-08-16T10:33:00.000-07:00

You don't need to bring a thing, just yourself! And registering not only ensures that a class will run, but saves you $3 per class. This is affordable yoga! (just as it should be)

The Roundhouse Community Center

located at the corner of Davie @ Pacific across from the "Roundhouse" Canada Line Skytrain

Prenatal Yoga

Tues and/or Thurs evening from 545pm-715pm

Sept 6-Oct 25/Nov 1-Dec 20

Sept 8-Oct 27/Nov 3-Dec 22

Baby and Me Yoga

Thurs afternoon from 1230pm-2pm

Sept 8-Oct 27/Nov 3-Dec 22

Mixed levels Hatha (always with a little yin and vinyasa thrown in)

Tues evening from 730pm-9pm

Sept 6-Oct 25/Nov 1-Dec 20

**NEW**

Yoga for Limited Mobility

Thurs evening from 730pm-830pm

Sept 8-Oct 20/Oct 27/Dec 8

To register for my Roundhouse classes call 604-713-1800 or click here

Mount Pleasant Community Centre

located at #1 Kingsway @ 7th (corner of Main St and 7th Ave at Kingsway)

Daytime Hatha

Mon and/or Wed afternoon from 1230pm-2pm

Sept 12-Oct 31 (no class oct 10) / Nov 7-Dec 19

Prenatal Yoga

Wed evening from 630pm-745pm

Sept 14-Oct 26/Nov 2-Dec 21

Baby and Me Yoga

Mon morning/afternoon from 1045am-1215pm

Sept 12-Oct 31 (no class oct 10) / Nov 7-Dec 19

To register for classes at Mount Pleasant call 604-257-3080 or click here

*All classes/costs are prorated as well and it is much cheaper to register than to drop in at both places.*

2011-08-02T22:39:00.000-07:00

The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic system, which is often identified with the fight-or-flight response, and the parasympathetic, which is identified with what's been called the relaxation response. When you do yoga - the deep breathing, the stretching, the movements that release muscle tension, the relaxed focus on being present in your body - you initiate a process that turns the fight-or-flight system off and the relaxation response on. That has a dramatic effect on the body. The heartbeat slows, respiration decreases, blood pressure decreases. The body seizes this chance to turn on the healing mechanisms. ~Richard Faulds

Ever tempted to give someone the silent treatment?

2011-07-31T10:19:00.001-07:00

I was awakened the other morning by a girlfriend in tears and very distressed by something I can relate to. The silent treatment.

We discussed that while we can understand taking time to cool off and walk away, just not addressing the issue and ignoring the other person involved just didn't make any sense to us. And well... its just plain cruel.

I decided to look into literature about it and came across a great article out of Purdue University by a Social Psychologist named Kipling William. He says "Excluding and ignoring people, such as giving them the cold shoulder or silent treatment, are used to punish or manipulate, and people may not realize the emotional or physical harm that is being done."

He speaks of ostracism in the animal kingdom, the workplace and in families. He also describes what it does to the brain in saying "When a person is ostracized for even a brief period of time, the anterior cingulate cortex, the part of the brain that detects pain, is activated and people experience the same initial pain when excluded by strangers or close friends, or even enemies. He says that thats why 'time outs' work so well while disciplining children. But in adults? Its bullying basically. Passive aggressive, manipulative, unnecessary bullying.

As much as I don't recall ever really giving anyone the silent treatment for more than a day/hours etc (although I've certainly been tempted to) I always decided that if I loved/cared for the person and the relationship mattered to me I'd try and work it out, and if I didn't it might just be better all the way around to end the relationship/break the ties. Anyways, I think most people out there have experienced either giving, or getting the silent treatment at some point, and by now I hope that my gal pal has dried her tears because life goes on! And I am sure that whoever was giving her the silent treatment is in pain as well, as we are all experiencing our own reality in each moment. And relationships are tricky for all of us, and sometimes we just don't know what to do, or how to respond. I don't think that everyone who gives the cold shoulder does so to purposefully hurt others. I think that it might be a way of protecting themselves as well, but maybe learning what it actually does to the brain might make someone go about things a little differently. Or I hope.

Its my long held belief that a little kindness goes a long long way, and most situations (no matter how crappy) can be worked out among people who love truly one another. In spite of everything is a really beautiful world. Namaste.

Yoga with Lori Lucas

See these kids? I know them all as well as their incredible parents.

Love "your" tree. Its beautiful♥

Come to the movies with me!

While not yoga related this video is absolutely amazing

Pregnant? if you have been coming to my classes you already know this but...

I for one shall be walking to work today. Check this out :)

Cat Yoga

Did you know that yoga actually makes your brain more flexible as well as your body?

Do you drip dry your sloths before you blot them with a towel?

"A good intention clothes itself with power."~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Thanks for another great year! Looking forward to seeing you back in class next week (in 2012)!!

smart kid

yodelay ho ho

And I think to myself...what a wonderful world.

Heres what the new year is looking like for me so far!

Read this quote a week ago and haven't been able to get it out of my mind.

We are shaped by our thoughts

If you had one wish for Christmas what would it be?

I've have had quite a few yoga students confide in me lately. This isn't always the greatest time of year for everyone.

Mindfulness=Stress Reduction

I think we all know that its the season for more than joy. Its the season for heart attacks.

anybody out there you need to forgive?

I love the ripple effect.

A little weekend holiday humour

A really inspiring talk on nutrition and MS

We can't always change our outer world but we really can change our inner world.

its almost 2012!

Every Dec 1st two things come to mind when I awaken...

You really want to go to this, and it's this weekend!

Compassion. If you have any enemies, feel compassion for them too.

Meditation is simply about being yourself and knowing who that is.

Let's help those less fortunate stay warm over the winter months.

If you come to my classes you know about fascia (and likely have rolled a tennis ball under your foot etc).

Amy Purdy talks about imagination. What a hero.

Hey look. It's all of our lives.

Please join us in protesting the BC government's proposed cuts to newborn health visits.

Let everyone that you meet on this day be blessed by you.

This is beautiful. Occupy love.

Have you had a C-section recently?

With these uncertain times and all that is going on we must remember all the pure goodness around us.

Are you in pain? Have a loved one in pain? Exciting research coming out of the neuroscience lab.

Love this.

Need a chuckle this fine Monday morning?

Beryl Bender Birch

More than 100,000 Canadian Soldiers died in conflicts since 1899-Lest we forget

Love and Shadow at OCCUPY Vancouver-with Michael Stone

A monk asks Tozan "When the cold and heat come how should one avoid them?"

Whether you are for or against Occupy Vancouver...

This is HUGE! Birthing from Within Prenatal Class - by donation in support of Shanti Uganda

Its a horrifying topic but I am feeling compelled to share.

Pretend today is going to be great.

Last Halloween post then I'm packin' it in for another year.

Happy Halloween friends!

The Arts.

Fan of the macabre? I am. warning- **only watch if you dare**.

You can click on the image to enlarge (and I hope you do).

pills pills pills. lives are wrecked by them and others saved.

Its almost time for the Shanti Love Project!!!

Be sure and watch...

Day after day...

Use it or literally lose it. remember your yoga practice

Ever have a day just go completely sideways on ya?

Pelvic floor issues for men? Yup. you betcha.

Is this not the most idyllic scene? I hope to dream about this very place tonight :)

mmm...mmm....garden.

Have you planted your garlic yet? Its the easiest thing in the world.

Our breasts. Watch them, feel them regularly.

Its that time again folks. Register today for all new sessions with me!

Like squash? Wild Rice? Roasted pecans?

Be honest and sincere anyway

I am so grateful for all of you.

I like to stroll in my neighborhood.

Pay it forward and change the world.

Our stunning universe. Enjoy.

What's on your nightstand?

Shanti Uganda's charity event "An evening of Art" is less than 3 weeks away!

Come back to life with Yoga!

Great advice

Happy International day of peace today. Spread it far and wide! Be it!

Fan of the macabre? I am. warning- only watch if you dare.