Follow up from Jess

Jess, Thank YOU so much for reading and writing back.  As a former journalist myself, I completely understand your position. And more-over appreciate all the work it takes to do a comprehensive article like this one.   I guess I was just 'put off' by the title on the cover, "seattle's ultimate yoga guide." Seems like missing a major player like hauteyoga QA would be a big oversight in an 'ultimate guide.'  But again, I do understand. I truly hope you do come my class. And I hope you will consider our amazing studio when writing future pieces. If you have any questions at all.. please don't hestitate to ask.  I have been teaching in this city for nearly 10 years. (and I was a TV Journalist for 10 years too :)) Merry merry and Happy holidays to you too. Jenniferlyn Chiemingo Jennifer, Thank you so much for taking the time to read my yoga story and send us a note. I certainly appreciate your feedback. I did a lot of research (and took a lot of yoga classes) in the making of the article, but I regret that I was not able to make it to many studios—including hauteyoga—which I have every reason to believe are wonderful places to practice. I will absolutely  drop in at the earliest opportunity and, rest assured, I will be telling as many yoga stories in the future as my editor allows. Thank you again for your note and have a wonderful holiday. Best, Jess Voelker.

Something Important is Happening Now

for you Brit!

(from journey into the heart - by Melody Beattie)

There's never a time when nothing is happening.  Something is always taking place. Growth is occurring/ We're evolving, transforming, working things out, incorportating our last lesson, preparing for our next.

Something is happening. We just don't always see it. And that's how it is meant to be.

When we see, when we know too much too soon, it's easy to let our heads get in the way. We think we have to control, have to force, have to make it happen, we have to do something/

In a gentle but wise way, the universe takes into account our fears and our natures.  It doesn't let us know too much too soon.  It doesn't spoit the surprise. It doesn't want us to spoil it either.

open your heart to the universe.
Trust that something is always happening.
And often, its much different thank you think.

:)

Seattle Met Article 'Yoga for Life'

My email to the writer:

Jessica,

I really enjoyed the premise of the article, "Yoga for Life."  In Seattle, the yoga scene is amazing - diverse - and healing.  But its hard to imagine why such a mammoth article about Seattle yoga does not even mention hauteyoga QA.  The 'hot' yoga studio features two styles, Power Vinyasa and Hot Hatha and has some of the most amazing, well-trained instructors in the city. Often you can come to this beautiful, boutique style studio and see a line out the door of yogis and yoginis trying their best to get in.

Opened in June of 2009, the yoga community that can be experienced here is like "Cheers - where everyone knows your name" - for yogis.  Nearly every night, experienced and newbie students flock to class in this amazing studio.  You can even sign up online to avoid being turned away. And as one of my students put it - "its always warm and sunny on Queen Anne."

I'd love to welcome you to any of my classes - for free. Please come, let me know when and I will give you a wonderful, life changing experience. My treat.

Much love and light,

Jenniferlyn Chiemingo

Director of Yoga - hauteyoga QA

To Give and to Get....

I am amazed at the amount of 'Light' in my life.  My mom always told me ' You give and you get, ten-fold.' She still convinces me when I am down, that it all will come back. Give, give, give.... 
My husband, Greg,  once told me - ' You should give gifts without any desire for getting back.  That would be a bonus, not a requirement.' 

I decided a while back - both Mom and Greg are right.  And guess what? They WERE right.  I try (and don't always succeed) to give in my life. Just to give because I WANT to. Because I already GET something by giving. I give little treats, I give big treats, I give my heart. All (well most of the time) because I want to, not have to... and I have never received more in my life, than I do now.

I have love shown and given to me virtually every day.  I get the most thoughtful, heartfelt gifts.  Gives of edible treats, gifts from the heart... all kinds of gifts and love.  I am so grateful. And in this season... I want to thank everyone in my life.  all my students who show me love, my family, my friends.  Look inside your heart. Give gifts because you want to... not because you have to.  Give gifts because it makes you feel good.  Give gifts without any expectation of getting back.  You will get back. I promise. Just not the way you thought.....

Latest Playlist 12/6/10

Om Mani Padme Om - DJ Reverend Alsultany
Space - MIA
Pickup Truck - Kings of Leon
Fading - Rihanna
Dark Fantasy - Kanye
S&M - rihanna
Rocketeer - Far East Movement
Sing - My Chemical Romance
Hot tottie - Usher
Talk That - timbaland
Light up the Night - BEP
Rhythum of Love - Plain White Ts
I couldn't explain Why - Citizen Cope
Silence - Delerium
Jai Ma - Suzanne Sterling

Solstice

The winter solstice is approaching. December 21st.  The Paegans celebrated the holiday of coming out of darkness. So much of what they did revolved around when they could grow food and survival.  Coming out of darkness meant warmer weather, longer days, more sunlight.  This is important for survival.  Even looking at the Christian holiday of this time - it is birth - rebirth really. This is a time to Celebrate.  The Islamic New Year is this Wednesday.  We can all be united. All races, all religions - united in New Beginnings. Rebirth. Coming out of the Darkness.

It is this sentiment that I approach the change of season.  The days will begin to brighten and last longer. The world is anew.  I will attempt to come out of my darkness.  I will always try to live life to its fullest. I am recommitted to this goal. No one, nothing can change or take away my light. I will shine and give my light to others.

I was laying in bed this morning thinking about my reading last night. A reading I will share again today. Every day there is a choice. Every day it is YOUR choice alone. Live your life. Free yourself from the darkness. Choose happiness.  This is our chance to begin anew. 

My workshop Body Prayer (12/18 at hauteyoga) is meant to solidify this goal. Let go - begin your new journey of life without the  weight of  the past. Heal old wounds. Create new goals.  Express gratitude. Love yourself.  Find new strength.

Open your heart to the light.

Transforming Practice

Can Yoga - all styles and methods of Yoga - transform your life?  Yes.  But you have to allow it.  I have recently had several conversations about my evening classes and the "fun" environment. Is this yoga transforming?  Again, my answer is yes.  Many many people come to my classes who would not otherwise practice yoga at all.  Little by little, I share yogic philosophy in a way that is understandable and not overwhelming at all. BE PRESENT. LET GO. AHIMSA (non-violence).  FORGIVENESS. Simple truths that students hear without shutting down.

This month in the Yoga Journal (the ad with me faded in the background is on the back cover again!) - there is an article called, "Miraculous Practice" by Karen Macklin. Worth a read. The article cites the dramatic ways the practice changed several students' lives'. 

But just yesterday, I was feeling overwhelmed. Overwhelmed that I am constantly giving.  Then one small thing happened and I snapped.  I had to retreat to my yoga practice and teachings for insight on a few levels.  Can I be human? Can I get overwhelmed and be angry?  Is this still ok, when I try to be the best yoga teacher I can be? Can I let go of what happened and move on? can I forgive myself and the person who angered me?  Can I be present enough to teach my classes, hear my students needs and be the best mom/wife I can be today?  I try. Every day. Every step of the way. I really do try.

All I can say, is thank GOD I have Yoga in my life to keep me guided and allow a space that I can love and forgive myself. And Give to my students.

You Are Being Led

Last night's reading included the following excerpt:
'There comes a point in any journey, even in the most magical of trips, when we look around and say I don't know where I'm going.  We have no plan...  Now is the time to practice what you know. Trust. Let go. Stay as peaceful as you can. Stay right in the present moment.  Sharpen your tools - your intuition, your inner voice, your consciousness and your awareness....'
From Journey into the Heart by Melody Beattie

This is right where I am.  Isn't it amazing how a reading can speak directly to you???!!!  My life is a mixture of dreams come true and the path unknown. Of happiness and sadness. Of trust and faith and fear of the unknown.  How can one life be so duplicitous??  Is everyone's life so full of both sides of the coin? 

If I am being led - can I have faith, can I trust it will all be 'ok'?  There is a reason for it all.  There is a path outlined. 

I am hoping so.....

Wine and Chocolate Playlist :)

Intro - The XX
Pickup Truck - Kings of Leon
Next Girl - The Black Keys
What's My Name - Rihanna and Drake
Hot tottie - Usher (featuring Jay-z)
Mash Up Mix- Thick as Theives
We R who We Are - Kesha
Like a G6 - Far East Movement
Raise Your Glass - Pink
The Time - Black Eyed Peas
Wildflower - Cee Lo Green
Come with Me - Flo Rida
Firework - Katy Perry
Innocent - Taylor Swift
Breathe - Telepopmusik

Thanksgiving

It is the month of Giving Thanks.  What does that mean exactly? I think you need to acknowledge the things in your life for which you are grateful and thankful.  You know - look at your life with glass half full!   I have always been that person. You know, the annoying one who says - 'But you have this, you have that..."
If I am not that person, I get really down. Doesn't everyone?? I mean, anyone can focus on the bad stuff. How you've been wronged. Why does that person have what I want? Why am I not getting that???

Instead, change your focus.  Buddhists believe comparing your life to others is a mistake. The wrong perspective. Instead, look at your life as your life... no comparison... and see what you have.  Looking at life, your life, with 'glass half full' changes everything.  Your life and your experience is unique. Besides - looking at someone elses' life isn't a real perspective, right? You get that? It is  your PERCEPTION of that person's life. No one really knows what is happening in another person's existance.  You only know yours!  So seize the day. Literally.

Tell those around you - how important they are to you. Tell those people you are grateful and thankful for what they've brought to your life.  Give thanks for the wonderful things in your life. Heck, give thanks to those challanging people and things in your life too. Those people, those moments define who you are.  Really. Reflect on the things that 'made you who you are.' Give thanks. Give thanks. Give thanks.

Shine Your Light

Recently some of my readings in class have struck me extra hard. Have you ever heard one Ive shared and thought - 'She is talking to me!?' Well, recently I have spoken for me - and I do often actually. I share the things the feelings the struggles I go through because I know others feel the same way.

I have always been a person with 'internal joy.'  In my darkest times, when I have lost that for a bit.... it's devestating. That joy comes from within. A basic love of self, of life.... I do have that. My mom taught me at a young age to find that happiness, find that joy - no matter what the situation.  Because joy does not come from a situation, from another person, from a place. It just doesn't. It should follow you everywhere - as it is inside you.

I have felt joyful in yoga lately. I really have.  I hope it shows. Despite taking the rest of my life day by day - I have been 'present' in yoga. Yoga is my gift. I appreciate it every day.  I appreciate those who come to class to live their yoga and share it with me.

This upcoming week is a big one... 10 classes for me.  My usual, my brand new noon on fridays and my Yoga, Wine and Chocolate on Friday night. Come share the fun, the joy and your light with me - And more than anything - Find your Light, Find your Joy from within and share it with the important people in your life. There is much to be joyful for ... you have it within  you.

Share Your Heart with the World - Melody Beattie

Share your heart with the world. Share Willingly, openly, joyfully what you have seen, what you have learned.

Don't tell people how you think you should have handled things. That's shame.  It teaches others to feel ashamed too. Don't tell people how you wish you had handled things. That's needless regret that we pas on to others.

Share honestly and openly about yourself, the way you felt, the things you thought. Share how going through your experience changed you.  Talk about your resistance, your pain, the imperfect way you did things, the way you handle things now.

Sharing honestly and openly teaches the people around you the most helpful truth - that the imperfect way we live our lives us right for us at the time.  When we love and accept ourselves enough to honestly share who we are, it helps those we touch to believe that they're good enough too.

Share your heart with the world around you and you will bring healing to those you touch.

Latest Playlist 11/2/10

Hauteyoga QA Evening Playlist

Om Mani Padme Hum - DJ Reverend Alsultany
Teardrop - Massive Attack
Bleed - Hot Chelle Rae
Tighten Up - The Black Keys
Strip Me - Natasha Beddingfield
The End - Kings of Leon
Raise Your Glass - Pink!
Just a Dream - Nelly
Grenade - Bruno Mars
Firework- Katy Perry
The story of Your Life - Matthew West
The Sound of Sunshine - Michael Franti
Thick as Thieves
Stay in the Love - Wah!
Jai Ma- Suzanne Sterling
Daylight as Sunset - EarthRise Soundsystem

Cherish Joy

Cherish Joy - By Melody Beattie

Choose Joy. Then cherish and savor it.
Joy is not a fleeting emotion based on outward circumstances, a transitory feeling of the moment, a reaction to the scenery around you.  It comes from within your heart like a waterfall that rushes out the side of the mountain. Joy is a runoff from the wellspring within you.  And sometimes it is a delightful, surprising contrast to the scenery around you.

Embrace Joy.  Relish it. Even if those around you don't have it right now, you can feel your joy. You don't have to be disrespectful of their feelings nor do you have to let their lack of joy diminish yours.

You have done your work. You have chosen to open your heart. Now you have your reward.

Cherish Joy. It is your treasure. You've found it. You've earned it. It's Yours


This reading is speaking to me right now. I need to choose joy. It is who I am. I need to be happy inside. I need to share that happiness with others.  It is my gift. It is my treasure.

Rollercoaster

I am sharing a reading today about life sometimes being a rollercoaster - the joy and the fear... and it got me thinking.  This taking it one day at a time... one moment at a time is okay for now. Look, I'm a planner. A serious planner.  Down to the minute.  I hate not KNOWING.  I hate the insecurity of not knowing my future....
But, I realized my journey, right now in my life, involves just taking SOME things at face value. Being present. Taking in the good and the bad.  It's just my moment right now. No planning is available to me. I have no idea what will happen in my life even a week from now. The beauty is - NO ONE DOES. But I have lived my life like I do. Like I KNOW. But I don't. Especially now.  And it's ok. really it is.

Sometimes it is good to be just here. today. now.  wing it a little. Change your mind. Often.  I am constantly talking about being present because I need that reminder. But never have I felt this life lesson so strongly. I am living for today. For the joy of the moment and even the sadness in any moment. I am trying to be extremely honest with myself. why did I do that? how can I change that? How can I do better next time?

I am constantly asking these questions. I know I am not perfect. Believe me I know. But I do try and I do fail sometimes.

Thank God I have all the amazing people in my life that I do.... I really am grateful for the here and now.

Yoga

Love, Light, Listening, Learning, Letting Go.... These are some of the things I get from Yoga. (plus the L theme is fun)  The article in the paper over the weekend has me thinking.  As we all know, things are pretty cruddly for me personally right now.  But I got to thinking about 'the journey' and what yoga offers me in this situation.  I am a 'spiritual' person.  I believe in God.  I believe in life ever-after. What that means, I have no idea. I believe in being the best me I can be because it is the 'right' way to live. Not because I'd have to 'pay the piper,' after, if I didn't. I am as kind, caring and loving as I can be because it feels good - it's what is inside me. Again, not because I'd be damned to Hell if I didn't.

At times in my life (like now) I need perspective. I need to feel the goodness in the Universe. I need to know I am not alone.  I get all of this from yoga. I get a community who loves me. I get the feeling my struggles are similar to what other people go through.  I share whatever wisdom I've gained in life and others share theirs.  I get laughter in sad times. I get to be present... in the right here, right now... where things don't look so bleak. Where I can say - I can do this one day at a time. I will make it no matter what else happens.

I support all people. All colors, all religions. I accept all behavior - well, not hatred.  I understand we are human. I would never turn anyone away from a class... I'd welcome them because I want more people to feel the way I feel.

In the end, anything that offers love to others, acceptace, self love, honesty, happiness, perspective, forgiveness, happiness....
these are things I want for me and for my community.  Everyone. I would seriously be so honored and welcome Pastor Mark with a full open heart and full of love to class. I just wish he'd come.

Some light.

The results came back on my sister. As she puts it - you need to sit through the bad to get the good. Kim had Ovarian Cancer. The doctors say they 'got it all' in surgery. No need for Chemo or any other further treatment right now. Just check ups every 3 months. My big sister is a cancer survivor. My mom is there in Massachusetts to help her recover from the rough surgery. But she is a survivor. Thank you God.

********
Recently I think my sadness has been coming out in my behavior. Last night, I talked to my students about the fact that I feel my emotions in a 'big way.' That I truly love each and every student and that when I am happy - I'm really happy. And unfortunately I am in a dark time in my life right now. And I feel the weight of that all the time.  The sadness is defining me. I don't want that.  I am so sorry to anyone who was negatively effected by this sadness inside me. As it says in the book 'The Four Agreements' - it is never about you.  This is me, working through a dark time in front of a lot of people. I am trying to keep my integrity, trying to be present, trying to be my authentic self. Trying to not be sad. Not angry. Not hopeless. 

I Love so Big. I really do. I am grateful for all I have.  I love so many of you.

My Sister and Beginning of Change....

My sister had surgery yesterday. She has cancer.  Not sure the degree yet, we are still in the waiting game.  Doctors felt based on what they saw - they needed to take a whole lot of stuff. My sister was literally gutted. Full Hystorectomy (one very twisted ovary), appendix, gallbladder, lymph nodes.  All gone.  All of the tissue will be sent for in depth testing. This will take a week. She has cancer, but it could be a 'borderline tumor.' Meaning, they got it early and got out all the effected tissue ,....  or it could be Ovarian Cancer - and the next step is TBA. Either way, she will have a rough recovery for several weeks.  My mom is flying out to help the day Kim gets out of the hospital.  She will be there for 8 days.  By then we should know what will be next and if I will be going....
I did talk to my sister. She sounded drugged but ok. Aware of everything. Aware of what happened and what we are waiting for. She was calling because she was worried about ME and what I am going through. She called because she was worried about her 14 year old daughter. And how she is handling it all and if she is ok.
My sister.... worrying about others.
I love her.

***********
There are changes happening already in my life.  That much I will say.  I also want to share some exciting news. I have decided I will begin taking Private Sessions again. I did this alot in my early years of teaching. Recently I have stopped for my schedule and demand. But now the door is open. Private sessions with me! If you want them, I will likely rent hauteyoga QA for the hour - of  those privates. Think of the answers about your practice you can get - the individual attention, when you are normally one of 35 people in a room in my class. I will enjoy connecting with students one on one again. I have missed that.

If I did a weekend retreat on Whidbey - would you do it? I think I need to start the process to plan one. Perhaps in the spring.... It would be a friday afternoon to sunday afternoon.... :)

**********
again I have to say how grateful and thankful I am to the constant love and support from my friends and students. You are all my light as I head on the mat and down the road of my life... I need that light to guide my way. Thank you.

Thank you - and Taking it Day by Day

First of all, I want to thank everyone who reads this, everyone who shared their love with me, every one of my students for being in my classes - every one for the constant support.

I am a mom. I am a wife. I am a sister. I am a friend. I am a woman. I am sad. I am human. I am me.

My sister's medical situation is just one of the ... let's say... not positive things in my life that came to light this week. I am dealing with what will potentially be a HUGE change in my life.  I am not ready to open up about it yet. But suffice to say this week presented challanges that will change me as a person.  And I am sad. Deep down inside I am sad.

My best friend told me she recently wrote a list of the things in her life that bring her happiness. In her darkest times  - she looks at the list - to remind herself she is luckier than most. She has a lot to be grateful for... and I do too. here is my list:


-My son, Ben.
-Greg, my husband
-My Mom
-My sister
-My best friend
-all of my friends
-Yoga
-Teaching
-My students
-My cats
-sunshine
-holidays - all of them
-travel - memories of all travel
-dreams of travel
-fudge
-glassy baby candles


I will take my life one day at a time. I will practice my yoga on and off the mat. I will breathe.  I will love.  I will be present. I will be grateful.  I will try. Every day, I will try.

what makes a blog interesting?

Honesty. Raw honesty. That's what I think. If it is too planned... what do we yet.

One of my personal strengths is connecting to people. I connect through openness and love.

Here goes:

My big sister has a huge mass on her ovary.  She may have cancer.  She lives in Massachusetts.  I feel helpless. All I can do is love her. Support her. Tell her I am here. It's hard. I'm sad.  I keep remembering our great moments together.  I know she will be okay. I just feel it. But this is causing a lot of reflection and heartfelt sadness.  I have been holding it in. Being a mom, a teacher, a friend, a sister, a daughter, a wife.

Today I apparently snapped.  Ben did something I felt was disrespectful to me and I lost it. I yelled at him. He cried. We were almost late for school. He was sad going into class. I feel like a horrible mom. I am crying as I write this.

UGH, how can I leave my house to teach yoga and tell people to be good, be present, spread love when I did that?

I am human, I know. But so so sad.

I am picking Ben up from school after my noon class - he has a dentist appointment. I will hug him.

I am so sad.

Nothing like a Dose of Reality....

... to minimize all the things you (read 'I') worry about.

I will not stress about my weight.,
I will be grateful for every day.
I will be present.

Thank you

oh voice, where are you?

This is another of those... random posts. A few things I'm thinking:

1) UH, I lost my voice AGAIN. Every time I get a cold. Bye bye Voice. But talking and projecting all the time... well, there it is. I have tried it all. Lemon hot water, cough drops, the spray, not talking, cold medicine, - everything but the neti pot. Why does that thing freak me out?

2) so it seems I may not be the only one doing internet research. my 'famous' neighbor showed up at my yoga class last night. Wonder  - was it a coincidence or not? geez I hope she liked it ;)

3) Here's something about me. I hate asking for things. I mean I really really hate asking for things. I am a spaz about it. And most of the time will only do it if I am asking for something for someone else. Even then, I HATE IT.  What is wrong with me? Why can't I ask for stuff?  I never want anyone to think I am taking advantage or getting free stuff. :( Spaz.

4)I have a new workout plan to lose these last four pounds. Thanks to a dear friend I had my VO2 test and metabolic test done. Valuable information.... too bad today I feel like I need to rest, rest my voice and my body so I can teach.

I think I will stop there for now.. more later, I think :)

Recipe

did you ever make something - hope for the best and get it? PLus more???

Greg is the chef in our family - I am what I call 'a functional cook.' I can make plenty - and I do... most of the time in 30 minutes or less... look out Rachel Ray - I may be next ;)

But this week - Greg handed over a recipe from Sunset Magazine - August 2010 and said - "hey I bought all the ingredients... I thought you'd want to try this one." Hmmm... I was nervous. But I did have the time since I don't teach on tuesday nights usually...

Oaaahhhhh - it was good. and Fairly low-fat (I counted my Weight Watchers and planned for it - each serving is about 10 points. - hefty but a whole meal unto itself)

Here it is - you should try it!!!

Chicken Puttanesca
by Leigh Trivino, Spokane

2tbsp olive oil
4 boned, skinned chicken breast halves (about 1.5 pounds total)
1/2 tsp each kosher salt and pepper
1/4 tsp red chili flakes
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 pt cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tbsp oregano leaves
2/3 cup pitted kalamata olives
4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Heat: oven to 450-Degrees with rack set 5 inches from heat source. heat oil in large ovenproof pan over high heat.

Sprinkle: chicken with salt and pepper. Brown Chicken in hot oil on one side, about 4 min. Turn chicken over and add chili flakes, garlic, tomatoes, oregano and olives.

Transfer: pan to oven and bake until chicken is cooked through, about 20 min. Lay cheese over chicken and bake until melted and browned, about 2 minutes


YUM YUM YUM

tell me if you try it! :) Hugs

Light and Energy

I was dragging a bit today - maybe it was noodle home - and that I couldn't leave the house. But I was struggling to get motivated to teach tonight.  But I knew this was going to be 'the week.' The week back for my peeps. Full rooms, lots of energy. FUN!

As predicted, sold out. Awesome. First off, I seriously cannot express enough gratitude for the constant love and support from my students. I am thankful everyday I get to do this and actually have happy faces and people in my room!

But anyways, let's get to the energy. I am not totally 'yoga - hoo hoo' you know that! But I DO believe energy is real. It effects you.  You can feel it.  You can feel the pulse, the love in a room.  That was tonight. From the beginning, love was coming toward me. I was open to receiving and I felt good. Ready to teach. Thanks to my sweet student, Amity - I got to put my hands on people. Adjusting, coaching, encouraging... loving. That IS a treat for me and for my students.....

I also believe some people have a light about them. A happy energy so to speak - you can feel them before they enter a room... warmth, love, happiness.  So so many of my students have this. But I feel my front row of students most. LEt's face it - their energy is on top of mine ;)

I have true Genuine love for all my students. The energy they bring to my class... to me.
Gratitude. Love. Thankfulness. Hugs.

Monday Blues

Oh, I had a plan today - Lots of stuff to get done. But being a mom trumps it all. Ben is sick. Home sick on the third week of school  I almost made him buck up and go - but then I looked at his eyes. You know you can tell alot about a kid looking at their eyes. And this kid's eyes looked sick. Cancel appointments, meetings, dentist. All cancelled. Must pamper the little guy.

But not all is lost, I'll be at haute tonight. This week marks - what I think is a new 'fall beginning.' The students should all come back and settle into their 'rainy and cool' schedule. which most certainly includes yoga - and hauteyoga more specificially.  Maybe even brings to mind thoughts of January and the need to escape to the sunshine with their fav yoga teacher ;)

There's just 10 days left to get the $50 off - if you register for the retreat before 9/30. Of course, we have room, you can register later - but this way you get a discount, get first dibbs at cool, cheap housing and cool cheaper flights.

ok, enough promotion.  Loved having a sellout for yoga church at yogalife last night. Let's keep 'em coming because the energy of that is intoxicating. I hope for everyone... not just me ;)

Love love to you all
See you on the mat.

2.5 miles, 2.5 pounds

I'm a typical woman, right? trying to lose those 'extra' pounds. Always trying to lose.  Well, week one left me 2.5 pounds lighter (4.5 to go), I ran 3x this week - today 2.5 miles and I am following my weight watchers :) yay.

It was a beautiful  morning to run. Sunny, but muggy.  I started out begrudgingly. but my heart started pumping, the music in my ears was motivating and for a moment I was enjoying it. A moment. I am a runner at heart. 

But then I got tired. Came inside at the end and um, feel a little sick to my stomach. Maybe I ran a little too fast. thinking I was in my 'runner's shape.'  Um, I'm not ;)  A little water - I feel a little better.

latest playlist

MLK - U2
Crystalised - The XX
Family Tree - TV on the Radio
The Dog Days are Over - Florence and the Machine
Undone - FFH
Talk to Me - Thick as Thieves
Only Girl - Rihanna
E.T. - Katy Perry
You Make the Rain Fall - Kevin Rudolf and Flo Rida
Commander - Kelly Rowland
Walk with Me - Thick as Thieves
The Catalyst - Linkin Park
Closer - Thick as Thieves
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
September - Daughtry
Better Days - Eddit Vedder
Not Like the Movies - Katy Perry
Let Your Heart Be Known - Steve Gold

new class?

if I taught another class - tuesday nights in Belltown - who would come? you'd have to pay cash at the door ($10)
Thoughts? Discuss. BTW, it would only be one tuesday a  month. non heated. But fun.

Thursday - Oh Thursday

I'm down a pound. that's something to celebrate right? No, not with food silly - with Smiles :)
Yesterday I ran, I taught two classes, I followed my weight watchers.... a good day.

I have to say, I am so so proud of one of my students.  She used to be a training client, a student and of course a dear friend. She came back into yoga - not so sure about haute or 'hot' yoga. But she stuck with it. Now she is a self-proclaimed 'yoga addict.' She has lost 26 pounds and I witnessed her holding crow (Bakasana) for literally 3 minutes!!!  I am so deeply inspiried by my own students. By their drive, devotion, excitement, happiness.
I told her she should start a blog called ' yoga addict' - she laughed (an awesome laugh BTW) and said - I don't have time - I have to go to yoga! :)

I love you E.

Random Thoughts - some made me smile.

I love those blogs you read that are amazing!!! Ty - this means you! http://kunovsky.blogspot.com/ (for those interested) Like you cannot wait for the next entry.  I will get there, I hope. For now, I am just trying to be consistant and well - that's it. :) I was a journalist, afterall - I should be able to 'nail it.' I have people interested and reading ... I hope I can hold the readers :)

Random thoughts:

The virtual world is incredible, isn't it. We sit at our little computers and type,  thinking - does anyone see this? Not just blogs either - facebook, twitter, myspace, etc.... I love when people you would never expect... say something perfectly referencing your writing. 'JL - how's the running?'  'Love your playlist' 'oooahhh I want to sign up for your next workshop. That sounded amazing.' 

It's funny to have our virtual world intersect with the 'real' world. Why is that funny? it's all real, right?  I can see how people could get 'addicted' to being online only.  You can say what you want - and MAYBE someone will respond. Or maybe you have more 'guts' here. I don't know. I just think its cool.

another....
it's a little scary what you can find out about a person on the internet... with little or no information.

We have new neighbors. totally cute. Seem normal enough. We have a neighborhood email list. So I know their names. I'd like to think I was using my journalistic skills to research that's why I had so much success... but seriously. It's scary.  anyways, I noticed that on both their cars was a sticker saying 'Flylow'... Hmmm I say. Must be important to them. I searched - names plus Flylow. So Cool! - I have a superstar skiier who lives across the street - oh and her boyfriend (and company sponsor) is the owner, president of a neato company 'flylow' that sells sweet ski clothing.  just cool. Could have been scary. but this is cool.  So how do I introduce myself and ask for ski lessons for Ben?? ;)

another...
I put my trash out a full day early. I have no idea why. This made me laugh.

another....
I was stopped at a stop sign - a man was clearly there before me. I waved him on to go - he shook his head pissed. huh. Weird.

another...
I am an open, loving person. really... what you see is what  you get. I truly care deeply about many people. I let them into my soul. For good or for bad.  I love my people. But those people who I think are 'my people' and then who hurt me. Hmmmm. this makes me mad. So mad. So hurt. I have one of those in my life right now. At some point I will tell this person. But for now -I am cold as ice. not pretty.

that is all for now.
:)

just found this old pic

Its a favorite of mine. A little piece of me :) Thanks for taking it mom.

New Rihanna

I now have the song I wanted. Only girl in the world.
Wednesday - noon and 7:30pm
oooaaahhh. it will be fun. :)

Transformation

Every day since Saturday - I've been given the gift of someone new telling me about their 'transformation' after the workshop.
Every day. I know it's only tuesday... but Saturday, sunday, monday and today - every day. A new story.
Last night, I was particularly moved by a student who thanked me for the insight and gifts she has received because of her transformation. This is a student I wasn't sure if I was 'reaching', if you know what I mean. 

I am blessed every day I am a teacher. But some days are especially wonderful. The days when I know I had an effect on someone - on their life, on their spirit.  I am a changed person nearly every day because of the gift of teaching... I (sometimes) cannot believe how fortunate I am. Really.

I mostly just wanted to thank you. Every student I've ever had. Ones who connected with my style and the ones who didn't. I am grateful. so grateful.
Thank you.

Running

okay - so as most of you know - I've been a runner. A lot of my life, I've been a runner. But I stopped running last year. Why? Because it hurt me. I have a deformed L4 - so my back is just not built for running.  But even with that - I have run a full marathon, and a few half marathons and numerous road races.  I just had to stop. My career as a yoga teacher is too important to me. And as my husband, who is the one who keeps me grounded, said - is running worth giving up yoga? Uh, no.

Now I am here - six to seven pounds heavier... still doing yoga every day. Trying to eat less. and 39 years old.  As I approach my 40th bday (next summer) I am sensitive to my aging body. Not taking more care of it, but battling the bulge. I fight my genetics every day. Literally.  I want to look fit, be fit and feel great. I know you may be thinking - what???? she does power yoga every day. I do. But okay - I want to be skinny! I can't help myself.

Will vanity win over? I ran two miles this morning... and walked one. Pretty good. Most times I would have powered through the entire loop of Greenlake. But I tried to practice my yoga and back off... at the right time.  Can I do both - take care of myself AND lose the 6 pounds? I'm going to try.

Teaching Teachers and growing as a teacher

I am part of a team of teachers at Yogalife leading the teacher training for the next nine months. I will say, during my more than eight years as a yoga teacher - I have had MANY students become teachers. It's so exciting. And now to be OFFICIALLY teaching teachers is validating.

Every day I grow as a teacher, every day I try to become a better, stronger teacher for my students.

Yesterday I lead a workshop called, "Body Prayer."
This workshop was inspired by Seane Corn... but because I talk a lot about 'authenticity' - I made it my own with my own spin.... a Half Yoga Mala (54 Sun Salutations) and my own topics to work through. And Readings and Music to support.

It was the first time I lead this particular workshop.  It was so incredibly moving to have the group of people I did... all willing to do this devotional practice.  I was personally moved to share some of my own issues to work through using the physical practice.     It is amazing - the power of physical prayer.  I believe the practice monumentally changed some people. I believe the experience provided new eyes to look into their hearts. I know the experience changed me. 

I will continue to try to grow and change as  a teacher and bring my growth to the mat. I hope you will come with me :)

latest playlist

oooaahhh - here's a way to rope you in. I'll list my playlists here :)

hauteyoga QA playlist:
MLK - U2
Crystalised - The XX
Family Tree - TV on the Radio
Space - M.I.A.
Undone - FFH
Talk to Me -Thick as Thieves (my new Fav band)
E.T. - Katy Perry
You make the Rain Fall  - Kevin Rudolf & flo Rida
Commander - Kelly Rowland
Walk with Me -Thick as Thieves
DJ Got Us Fallin in Love - Usher
The Catalyst - Linkin Park
Closer - Thick as Thieves
Just the Way You Are - Bruno Mars
September - Daughtry
Better Days - Eddie Vedder
Not Like the Movies - Katy Perry
Let Your Heart Be Known - Steve Gold

Should I?

Should I start a blog? Seems like lots of people have them. I know I have things to say... about yoga, life, motherhood, etc....
hmm... If only I could figure out this page. How do I tell people - OH FACEBOOK :)
see this is already stream of consciousness typing.
I think I will give this a shot. First, let's make sure this worked :)