Tuesday, November 1, 2011

November 2011 : Gratitude

Hello Friends,

November is Gratitude.

Last month, we focused on yoga face. Our facial muscles build tension, and we can daily release this stress by mindfully relaxing our jaw, softening our eyes, and releasing the tongue. Don't let the cold weather, traffic, or your barista at Starbucks stress your face out this season and beyond.

Here are some fun photos by Annelise Hagan that you can mimic at home and during yoga class to relax your face. Don't fear, go for it, relax thy face!



In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we celebrate gratitude this month.

In yoga practice, as we bring more awareness to the mind, we can begin to identify less with negative self chatter and meet each moment as it rises with more gratitude. This can also spill off the mat into your daily life.

What does that mean? Next time, you are berating yourself or life on the mat- stop. Yes, it can be that easy.

Focus on your breath and notice how you are the creator of your own thoughts. Think of a few things that you are thankful for and dwell on them.

This month we investigate gratitude.



"Gratitude" and "Grace" come from the common Latin word gratus, meaning "thankful" or "pleasing."

How to cultivate Gratitude ..

- Start a gratitude journal
- Focus on what you have
- Give back
- Receive with gratitude..this honors the goodness of the giver
- Practice random acts of kindness