Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Yoga Teacher Trainings...

People often ask me when I am going to give a teacher training... Although we don't have anything set in stone yet, we are starting to think about it, and hoping to plan one for 2011. In the meantime, here's my advice on choosing a teacher training...

Before you commit to one training, it's definitely a good idea to check out your options. I recommend going and taking classes with the teacher who will be giving the training, and chatting with them after class to get a feel for the focus of the training, and to see if you connect with them (if you don't like the teacher, it's going to be a long and painful training). Make sure you check out several different teachers/styles before settling.

Before you get to the training part, make sure you have a committed practice, build it up to 3-5 times a week. Most trainings require at least one year of regular practice. Also, attend workshops/retreats, these are a great way to deepen your practice before jumping into a full on training.

A big question to ask yourself is "Am I taking this training to deepen my own practice?" or "Am I taking this training to learn how to teach?". Some trainings are geared more on the philosophy and practice, and some are more focused on teaching how to teach. It depends what you are looking for. If you're looking to deepen your own practice, you might want to focus on workshops/retreats and reading books/scriptures at your own pace...

To help us with the planning of our training, let us know what you'd like to learn more about.

Here's a list of some of the trainings in Montreal:
http://ashtangamontreal.com/community/?cat=9
http://www.lynestroch.com/fr/cours/formation.php
http://www.mokshayogamontreal.com/English/index.htm
http://www.naada.ca/teacher-training/
http://www.sattvayogashala.com/workshops.html
http://www.sivananda.org/montreal/English/TTC.htm
http://www.unitedyogamontreal.com/training.html
http://www.yoga-sangha.com/FormationProfessorale/Programme.aspx
http://www.yogamontreal.com/pages/teacher_trainings.php

Outside Montreal:
http://www.blissology.com/offerings/blissology-teacher-training/
http://www.jivamuktiyoga.com/fms/index.html
http://www.tranquilspace.com/teacher-training/level-1.html

Keep in mind there are hundreds of trainings, these are just a few I have heard about. Please feel free to add others to the list. I (obviously) have not done all these trainings (except for the Jivamukti one, which I loved), so I can't say which ones I would or wouldn't recommend, but at least this gives everyone a place to start...

Monday, November 1, 2010

Yoga Teacher... Accountant

Over the years I've come to realize that to have a successful yoga studio, you need to have more than good yoga teachers, you also need to have some entrepreneurial skills. So with that in mind I've been working on honing some of my business skills. Today I did an 8 hour class in "Simply Accounting". If it really was 'simple' I don't think they'd need a whole days course on how to use the program.

I got up early, packed a lunch, drove (with the rest of the 9-5ers) out to Cote de Liesse, sat in a conference room in the basement of the Holiday Inn, used all my might to stay focused on the large screen and accounting jargon, while sipping tea and trying to stay warm. Although the room was dry, dark, and somewhat smokey, Alan Cohen (the teacher) was warm and funny. He was super concise and patient. I learnt that I do actually know more about accounting than I thought I did, and that I need to do some serious reorganizing in our data entry... sigh.

Doing the 'drive at 5' on my way home, I sat in traffic with the masses, (realizing how lucky I am to be able to bike or walk to work) thinking I love getting out of my comfort zone, it gives me a glimpse into the lives of others, and also allows me to appreciate some of my routines. There's always that balance of trying new things challenging ourselves, and at the same time enjoying simplicity.

Back to the studio tomorrow, with a hint more of accounting in my back pocket...

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Jivamukti with Dechen Thurman

Exhausted and inspired from a weekend of Jivamukti with Dechen Thurman. Since there aren't very many Jivamukti teachers in Montreal, I don't often get to take a Jivamukti class. It was so nice to practice my favorite style and to get to know a new teacher.

Dechen is filled with knowledge and insight, so it was great to have him at the studio. We hadn't met before last weekend, until he showed up at our doorstep at 7am on Saturday morning! It was a whirlwind of a weekend. We made sure to take him to 2 our favorite restaurants (Olive & Gourmando, and Aux Vivres), walked around the Old Port, drove past the mountain (busy yogis), made some of our favorite recipes (Jae Steele's Spaghetti Squash with tomato sauce, Love Soup & Cowgrrrl Cookies) and he even squeezed in Saturday mornings class with Bram.

The workshops were both amazing; fun music, new sequences, crazy adjustments, mantras, meditation, insights, and some hilarious shorts that left everyone giggling.

It's always a bit of craziness when we have a guest teacher, but soooooo worth it! I'm very grateful to Dechen for taking the time out of his busy schedule, and making the effort to come to Luna to share his teachings.

"All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives."
Dalai Lama

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Hitting Refresh

My parents used to take us to Maine almost every summer. I have fond memories of Kennebunkport and Goose Rocks Beach. I hadn't been back in years, and always wanted to take Jason there, so for my Dad's 70th birthday we all rented a cottage and headed down for the long weekend.

Besides some more shops and a bit of development, it hadn't changed too much. The beach was still gorgeous, and the town adorable (the toy store even carried much of the same inventory). We spent our time taking long beach walks, picnicking, swimming, playing scrabble, and eating out. We even found an amazing restaurant with plenty of veggie and organic options; Bandaloop (reservations needed... this place is popular!).

Every morning I practiced yoga on our back patio facing a marshy, bird sanctuary. As I watched the tide go out, the focus of my practice shifted to the deep connection of all things, and to the awe of nature. The postures suddenly became less important, and instead I felt like I was soaking up all the incredible energy around me.

The ocean, the sea air, the stars, everything shared a feeling of peace.

Going away is like a really good yoga class, or like hitting the 'refresh' button. It always leaves me feeling more calm and, for lack of a better word... refreshed.

If you haven't taken the time for a vacation lately, take some time off, even if it's just one day. Go for a walk in the woods, get a massage, or read a good book. Life is short, enjoy it.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Lululemon Ambassador Summit + Yoga Retreat

Last week was an inspiring, busy, and relaxing week. The first 4 days were spent in Vancouver at the Lululemon Ambassador Summit. When Lulu first invited us to the Summit, I was slightly skeptical. I had just had eye laser surgery, and was sitting in the dark with all the blinds down and sunglasses on when Bram called to tell me Lulu wanted to treat us to 4 days in Vancouver. I wasn't really sure why they wanted to send us out there, or what it was all about, but my answer was "yes" of course!

Our days were fully packed with goal-setting & social media workshops, networking and design feedback. It was such a unique event, as it brought together yoga teachers, athletes, and studio owners from all over North America (and a couple from Australia too). It created this platform for us to share ideas, goals, and problems. Running your own business can often get lonely, so to be able to talk to other studio owners, and relate to their challenges, give advice and get advice, is really special. Just knowing that other people are going through the same struggles is comforting. The summit allowed us to share freely, and to learn from each other. I'm so happy to have met some amazing people, and am extremely grateful to Lululemon for organizing it all. My initial skepticism was way off, the only thing they wanted in return, was for us to keep spreading joy, and encourage others to live their best lives and create a better world.

Thursday evening I came home, unpacked, did laundry, slept, woke up, repacked, and was off to Spa Eastman for our annual Weekend Yoga Retreat. Although I was slightly jet-lagged, as soon as we pulled into the driveway of the spa, I felt a wave of relaxation wash over me. The next couple of days were spent teaching, relaxing by the pool, and getting to know some more amazing people.

Although last week was extremely busy, I feel blessed, and super lucky. Going away also always makes me really appreciate my home life, my family, the studio, and my own bed. As my schedule starts to calm down, Jason's is in full swing, with interviews, rehearsals, and preparations for his album launch this coming Friday! Check them out at www.myspace.com/sunfields (the new album will be available at the shows, the digital release will be on iTunes soon).

Sending love, and life filled with happiness.
Jennifer*

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Yoga with Baron Baptiste

A couple of weeks ago I did a workshop with Baron Baptiste. I had seen the ad about 2 months ago, and decided I wanted to do it. I didn't know much about Baron, only that his parents are both yoga teachers, he teaches a style of power yoga, and is known for his yoga bootcamps. I tried to register well over a month in advance, only to find out the workshop was already sold out. I was put on the waiting list (and later found out there was a waiting list for the waiting list), so I was pretty doubtful that I would get in.

When I got the phone call in the afternoon, letting me know a spot had freed up for the workshop that night with Baron, it was at the height of a heat wave. I immediately said yes, hung up the phone, and began to wonder if I made the right choice. The workshop was being held at Moksha Yoga; a 'hot' yoga studio where they heat the room between 38C and 41C (100-105F). The temperature outside was probably similar, so while everyone else was going home to take cold showers and turn on their fans and a/c's, I was heading to an intense 3 hour workshop in a heated room... my mom was very skeptical.

Within the first half hour I was already sweating, and we haden't even done anything, we were just sitting listening to Baron talk about his background and his take on yoga. I had know idea he had studied with Pattabhi Jois, Iyengar and Bikram (3 well known teachers). He talked a lot about meeting your edge, and pushing through it; physically, mentally, and emotionally. He emphasized that we are stronger than we think. I definitely related to what he said, and was ready for the challenge.

The practice started with the abs. Baron guided us through one of the most intense ab workouts I've ever done. I wasn't sure I was going to make it. We continued though sun salutations (holding downward dog for what felt like 20 breaths), standing postures, balancing, seated postures, backbends (I think we must have done 8 full wheels), and relaxation. With seventy people packed into the heated room, doing an intense yoga practice, it was not just sweaty, it was a slip and slide! The energy was amazing. Even though we only had an inch between mats, everyone was super considerate. I love packed classes, it always gives this "we're in this together" feeling.

I'm not sure what my expectations were for this workshops, but I really enjoyed Baron's teachings, and felt that he has a genuine, kind heart. I think when it comes to workshops, teachers, and life in general, it's good to have an open mind, and to go out of your way to try new things and challenge yourself. We are so often pleasantly surprised...

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Yoga in Banff

I'm just back from an amazing trip to Golden, B.C., where I visited my sister, her boyfriend, and my brand new nephew Devon! He's so adorable, words can't even begin to describe him.

While planning my trip out west, Kaeleigh (a student/friend/receptionist at Luna) hooked me up with Mindy from Rocky Mountain Yoga in Banff, and together organized a workshop.

The Banff yoga community was so welcoming and enthusiastic, it was amazing! I never know how people are going to react to Jivamukti Yoga, especially if they're coming from a softer or quieter practice, but everyone was super receptive and eager to learn more (for most people it was their first Jivamukti experience).

I love teaching in new places, meeting new people, and sharing yoga experiences. I feel very lucky to be doing something I love, and getting to travel too! Thanks to Kaeleigh, Mindy, and everyone who came out for the workshop.
xoxoxo
Jennifer*
Pic 1: Suzanne, Chris & Devon
Pic 2: Workshop at Rocky Mountain Yoga
Pic 3: Me & Mindy
Pic 4: Yoga Master Devon (in baby cobra)

P.S. If you ever visit Golden, BC, check out Chris's restaurants "The Kicking Horse Grill" and "The Fire Pit Smokehouse"... super yummy (there's even veggie options!)

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Montreal's Markets

I'm loving Jae Steele's new cookbook Ripe from around here! I've tested out some recipes and am I'm halfway through reading the first part of the book about local and sustainable eating. Although I often do find local and organic veggies at IGA, I also love to pick up fresh ingredients from the market. Here's a list of some of Montreal's hot-spots for fresh finds:

Jean Talon Market: Behind the shops on Jean Talon and Henri-Julien. One of the biggest markets in Montreal, with lots of fruit and veggies (yummy salted tomato slices to taste test), flowers/plants (more-so in spring/early summer), and some indoor stalls (look out for bhajis with tamarind chutney - delicious - and also usually have taste testers).

Atwater Market: On Atwater, near the canal. Lots of fruits and veggies, flowers/plants (one of my Mom's friends even comes from the country to buy some of her more exotic plants here), also has indoor stores, plus a Premiere Moisson.

Amherst Market: (I couldn't find the link for this one) On Amherst & Ontario. I was just there last weekend and they're in the midst of renovations (I was told they are expanding the inside) but should be fully open by the end of June. Outside, they usually have lots of fruits and veggies, and inside an assortment of organic canned and dried goods, plus cheese, olives, etc. There's also a large garden plant section in the spring/early summer (now open). Across the street, they are currently located in a small shop on Amherst, just below De Maisonneuve (I'm assuming these are the same people, and will relocate into the new renovated space when it's ready).

Marche Duluth: In 2 different locations (5039 St Dominique on Thursday evenings, and 4265 Laval on Sundays). I've never been to these markets, (Bram found them online) but their web site says everything is local, ecological and seasonal.

A couple other spots to mention are: Rachelle-Bery (there's 3 in Montreal) A healthfood store selling organic and natural products (veggies, dried goods, toiletries), and La Maison Verte in NDG, a store and cafe, with tons of eco-friendly, and local products/produce, and lots of green events.

I have a sneaking suspicion that there are many more hidden treasures... if you know of any, please share!

Friday, May 28, 2010

Happiness is Healthiness

A couple of years ago I read a review about a vegan cookbook called Get It Ripe. I told Jason about it, and soon after he gave it to me for our 12 year anniversary (I know, it's been a while!). I fell in love with it right away; it's written by a local woman (Jae Steele), it's vegan (with lots of gluten, sugar, and dairy substitutes), and most of all Jae feels like someone I can really relate to, she is passionate about her work, and she seems to be doing a lot of it herself.

The first 100 pages of the cookbook talks about everything from vitamins and nutrients, to eating locally and organically. Usually I skip the intros to cookbooks and go straight to the recipes, but I thoroughly read and enjoyed this one.

The recipes are super tasty. I've cooked with them for many friends and family members, vegetarians and meat-eaters both love them! I've never had so many requests for recipes before. I liked it so much I started selling the books at our studio, and giving them as gifts. My Mom has been using it to cook for my Dad and Grandmother (who are both very traditional, old-school foodies). At first she tried to sneak in the tofu, telling my Grandmother it was chicken, but she knew something was up. Oma's favorite meal used to be meat & potatoes, now it's portobello mushroom burgers!

Even the baked goods are amazing, and that says a lot. Vegan desserts have a reputation for being dry, crumbly, and tasteless. Jae's Cowgrrrl Cookies are my nephews favorite, and some friends called us last week to say their son, who had been sick, was smiling after eating the Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins Jason had brought over.

After cooking many delicious meals from her book, I looked up Jae's contact info, and sent her an email inviting her to the studio... after some time, she accepted, and is now coming to give a workshop Happiness is Healthiness and promote her new book Ripe from Around Here next week!

Although we are friends on facebook, I've never met Jae Steele. I love to cook, I love good food, and I definitely think healthiness plays a huge role in our happiness, so I'm super excited to meet Jae, take her workshop, and get a copy of her new cookbook! Hope you can join us.

Here are some of our favorite recipes from Get It Ripe:
Sesame Miso Dressing, Perfect Peanut Sauce, Simple Dal, Coconut Cauliflower Chana, Barbecue-Baked Tofu with Mushrooms and Bell Peppers, The Good Shepherd's Pie, Double-Whammy Ginger Cookies

Happiness is Healthiness
T
hursday June 3, 7:30-9:30pm @ Centre Luna Yoga
$45 (includes a copy of Jae's new cookbook Ripe from around Here)
info & registration



Saturday, May 8, 2010

Honoring our Mothers

A Mothers love and kindness does not always get the full appreciation it deserves. It may come as a surprise to some of you, but I was not always the most grateful, loving daughter... my parents had to suffer through my dark and gloomy teenage years. But as I grew older and wiser, I once again saw the light.

My Mom is one of the kindest, most generous, loving and optimistic people I know. I am so lucky and blessed to have her as a Mother.

Mother's Day is a day to honor all the Mothers in our lives; our birth Mothers, spiritual Mothers, and of course the Mother of all, Mother Earth.

To celebrate Mother's Day, we'll be bringing lunch out to my parents house (Beautiful Borscht Soup & Apple Crumble from my favorite cookbook Get It Ripe) and then tea and cookies with Jason's family (Cowgrrrl Cookies, my nephews favorite). I spent the afternoon baking and cooking, so everything is made and ready to go, now the true test is for us not to eat it (3 cookies have already gone missing)!

Sending love and admiration to all the amazing Mothers out there!
xo
P.S. The photo was taken on our first Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica (my Mom was the first person to sign up)

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Easy Tips to Go Green

Happy Earth Day!
Earth Day for me is a reminder to appreciate Mother Earth, not only today, but everyday, and to remember that every little thing we do has an impact on the earth. Here are a few tips to help make your daily life a little greener...

- put up a 'pas de circulaires' or 'no flyers please' note by your mailbox (it'll change your life!). You don't need to buy an official sticker, we made one ourselves and it does the trick.
- sign up for online billing; you can usually do this through your bank, or check on the back of your bill (sometimes it even saves you money)
- pick up a stainless steel water bottle and/or travel mug; millions of water bottles end up in landfills everyday.
- bike to work; if you don't have your own bike, check out bixi bikes in Montreal
- make your own lunch... or if you pick up food, ask them to wrap it in wax paper instead of using styrofoam, or better yet, bring your own tupperware.
- eat less meat; factory farms are responsible for more than 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.
- compost your food scraps; if you live in Montreal you can get an outdoor composter at you local Eco Quartier or make your own worm composter
- recycle; I know this is an obvious one, but there are still some people who don't do it...
- buy a reusable canvas bag; carry one with you so that you're ready for the spontaneous grocery shop (they even make bags that fold up into teeny tiny squares, so that it won't take up too much room in your bag).

If you have any other suggestions or tips, please add them into the comments section, I'd love to hear them!

Friday, April 16, 2010

Veggie Eats in Montreal

Before going on a recent trip to NYC, I googled vegetarian restaurants in the area. I came across one of Moby's blog postings listing some of his favorites, and found it super helpful. I thought I'd do the same for Montreal...

Starting with my favorite Aux Vivres (amazing vegan food), Yuan (asian fusion), Pushap (yummy Indian), Bonnys (in Griffintown), Green Panther (Mile End) Chu Chai (for a nice dinner) or Chuch (for lunch), Divan Orange (venue/restaurant), Casa del Popolo (hearty sandwiches), Burritoville (Mexican), Juicy Lotus (in NDG), La Faim du Monde, Le Commensal (buffet/cafeteria style).

Some veggie friendly faves: Olive et Gourmando (awesome Viva Las Vegan sandwich), Veritas (yummy hummus & eggplant sandwich), Santropol (sandwiches, salads, pies), Chez Jose (vege paté), Clark Street Bakery (spicy aubergine sandwich), Shaika Cafe (chick pea wrap, in NDG).

Bon appetit!
P.S. Please feel free to add your favorites to the list...

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Mayan Riviera Yoga Retreat 2010

Just arrived back home from our yoga retreat in Tulum. We had an amazing group of 19 people! The setting was gorgeous and the energy was incredible. Yummy food, beautiful beach, yoga, and new friendships. It's amazing what one week can do...

The best part is seeing the transformation in everyone, not only in their yoga practice, but in themselves. As we take time away from our responsibilities we connect with ourselves, and when we look at our lives from a distance, we can see what really matters, and sometimes see what changes need to be made.

Tulum not only has amazing energy with rich Mayan culture, but is also geared towards 'eco tourism'. In this setting we really feel a deep connection and appreciation for the earth. The beach, the ocean and especially the stars, remind us that we are just a small part of this incredible universe.

This retreat has left me feeling renewed and inspired. I am so grateful to everyone who joined us for making it extra special. It really was an amazing week!

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop to look around once in a while you could miss it." ~From the movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Classes on itunes

We've added a couple of the shorter podcasts already.
I'm attempting to add the larger ones but am clearly not an expert podcaster yet...

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Yoga On-The-Go

For those times when it feels like all you've got is 10 minutes... We don't always have time to take an hour and a half class at a studio, but those hectic days are usually the times we need it the most. Here's a short yoga practice filmed while we were on vacation in the Bahamas. The gorgeous beach and ocean always leave me feeling inspired... Hope this video helps keep you centered on those busy days.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Veggie Scraps turned Veggie Stock

During the summers Jason and I compost all our kitchen scraps in our outdoor compost bin. By the end of the summer, the bin is full, and as winter sets in, it is difficult to get to, so we stop composting for the season. I have been feeling so guilty every time we throw kitchen scraps in the garbage (unfortunately the fruits and veggies won't turn into compost in the garbage dump due to lack of oxygen, and being mixed with battery acid, diapers, plastic, etc). I've been meaning to start worm composting indoors, but have yet to get around to making the space and buying a box (I also feel there's no way a small bin is going to be able to handle all the veggie scraps we create!). After chatting with Tara (one of our lovely receptionists) about it, she suggested we save all our scraps in the freezer and when I have enough, turn it into veggie stock... brilliant!

Since I'm home sick today, and veggie stock seems to be one of the only things I've been able to eat, I figured now was the perfect time to test it out. I checked out Jae Steele's Get it Ripe cookbook for a recipe, dumped everything into a pot and let it simmer... super easy! In the meantime I decided to try the Immune Boast Juice... I clearly don't have the right blender, as this turned into more of a meal rather than a juice (probably not the right thing for my upset belly anyway).

The veggie stock turned out amazing! I feel proud to have made it from scratch and am excited to use it in recipes. After watching the movie Food Inc on the weekend, I feel extra inspired to try new food options, start worm composting, and go a little more out of my way to buy local & organic. If you haven't already seen this movie, I highly recommend it!

One of Jason's friends once painted me a picture of a pig for my birthday. When he gave it to me, he said it made him think of me because it was wholesome. Although I was skeptical at first, I still feel like it was an amazing compliment.

Monday, February 8, 2010

Oma's Secret to Happiness

Over the holidays I chatted with my Grandmother about life, love and happiness. At 96 years old, she has lots of experience, and is an inspiration to myself, and to anyone who's ever met her. We have a picture of her doing the plank pose (at 91 years old) posted up at the studio, people are constantly looking at this photo in awe and amazement. When I pass this info on to my grandmother, she always says "what's the big deal, it's just plank pose". I love her determination and strength! I think everyone could benefit from some words of wisdom from my Oma, so I caught some of it on video... (Oma is dutch for grandmother)

Monday, February 1, 2010

Detox Playlist

Thanks to everyone who came out for the Detox Workshop! The effort, determination and energy in the room was amazing! I had some requests for the playlist, so here it is...

Mangalam (Chillums At Dawn Remix) [Remixed By Sean Dinsmore] 5:14 Prem Joshua
Hey World (Remote Control Version) 4:17 Michael Franti & Spearhead All Rebel Rockers (Bonus Track Ve
rsion)
Ease Off The Liquor 5:58 Timbaland Presents Shock Value II Active 80 6

Sometimes 4:06 Michael Franti & Spearhead Stay Human Hip-Hop/Rap 80 6
Toxic 3:27 Britney Spears

Everybody Ona Move 5:49 Michael Franti & Spearhead Yell Fire!
Marchin' On (Timbaland Remix) Feat. OneRepublic 4:12 Timbaland Presents Shock Value II R&B 80 3
Wicked Are Good 4:28 Wade Imre Morissette Strong As Diamonds
Walking On A Dream 3:19 Empire Of The Sun Walking On A Dream Electronic
Obama Song (feat. SoliLLaquists of Sound, Cherine Anderson & Anthony B) 4:09 Michael Franti & Spearhead
Let´s twist again 2:22 Chubby Checker Let´s twist again Rock & Roll
Piece Of Me 3:32 Britney Spears Blackout Dance 80 2
You Dont Know How It Feels 4:43 Tom Petty Wildflowers

Paper Planes 3:26 M.I.A. Slumdog Millionaire Soundtrack Soundtrack
Forever 4:38 Chris Brown Now 71
Bob Marley - Red Red Wine 5:21 Bob Marley

U.K. Girls (lets get physical mix) 4:49 Goldfrapp
Love 2:43 Air Love 2
Here Comes The Sun 3:20 asana OHM Shanti
Study War 4:18 Moby 07/10/2009 9:31 AM Wait for Me
Hallelujah (feat. Charlie Sexton) 4:16 Justin Timberlake & Matt Morris Hope for Haiti Now
Killing The Blues 4:17 Robert Plant & Alison Krauss Raising Sand

OM-Harmonisation 11:08 Patrick Torre Universel OM-Le Mantra Des Mantras New Age

February Luna-Tox: We'll be detoxing all month long with our regular classes, plus you can take the 28 day challenge, or the Tasty Life Cleanse.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Sumptuous Scandinave Spa

After a late night out with the girls, I spent the perfect Sunday afternoon with Bram and Laurel at the Scandinave Spa. Walking into the Scandinave you feel like you are stepping into a completely different zone; a place of total relaxation. The spa is based on the aged-old European tradition know as 'thermotherapy', or the hot & cold baths.

After changing into our bathing suits, we headed to the hot steam sauna. This is a circular room with three different levels of seating. It is so steamy in here you feel like you are inside a cloud, it has a really dreamy effect. We sweated it out for 10 or 15 minutes and then went for the ice cold rain shower - extremely intense, but the after effects are amazing. After doing a round of hot-cold, you are meant to relax, so we headed to the 'relaxation room'. We plopped ourselves down on the giant bean bag cushions and lay there with our bodies tingling (it almost feels like an opium den).

We finally peeled ourselves off the cushions and headed to the dry sauna. This is a gorgeous, wood-filled space that smells like yummy evergreens. The heat feels so good, it easily melts away any stress or tension. We followed up the heat with a quick dip in the icy, cold bath. My advice for the cold bath is: don't think about it, just do it!

Back in the relaxation room, we got some smoothies and snacks from the 'bar', and stretched back out on another giant cushion.

The third hot station is the hydro-jet bath. It's a warm pool surrounded with jets on the sides, and water pouring down the walls. The best part is the waterfall. If you sit right under it, you get an amazing shoulder and neck massage.

The whole experience is really special. It leaves you feeling relaxed and blissful. We forget sometimes, to slow down and take care of ourselves. Somehow it doesn't seem to be at the top of our priority list, yet our well-being is so important in all aspects of our lives. Instead of taking care of ourselves, we often wait till something goes wrong, and then we try to fix it. I think the secret to good health and well-being is to appreciate our bodies and to take care of ourselves. We spend money on our houses and cars, why wouldn't we spend it on our own bodies?

As part of our Detox Month, we're offering a Detox Yoga Flo Workshop with access to the Scandinave at 20% off. Plus you can participate in our 28 day challenge, or check out Myrite's Cleanse.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Yoga in the Beautiful Bahamas

For the past couple of years, Jason and I have been traveling to the beautiful Bahamas. There are said to be 365 islands in the Bahamas (one for each day of the year). Each visit we have been exploring a different island; this year we visited Long Island. We rented a small cottage right on the ocean.

Our days consisted of lots of beach walking, relaxing, swimming and snorkeling. In the mornings I practiced yoga outside on our back porch facing the sun and listening to the sound of the ocean. It was so beautiful and inspirational, I had the feeling of being completely free and totally connected to nature. During the day we walked on deserted beaches and often sat and watched the waves. In the evening we star-gazed, and were lucky enough to be there during the full moon.

When I'm in Montreal I often forget to look up (especially when there's icy sidewalks... I'm so focused on not falling, I'll forget to look up for days), but in the Bahamas it's impossible not to notice the stars and the moon. The sky is so big, and the stars are so close it feels like you could almost reach out and touch them. You look in one direction and see miles of aqua blue ocean, and then in other: beach, coral, and green vegetation. In the city we are surrounded by so many man-made things that it can be easy to get disconnected with nature, but in a place like the Bahamas nature is so in-your-face, and so beautiful, that you immediately have this feeling of being smaller... in a good way.

The earth, and all the animals, are often seen as 'ours' to use, as 'resources' for humans, but in fact we are just one of many species that are a part of this incredible earth. Being on a small, remote island puts you at the mercy of mother nature (power outages, rugged roads, tides, wind and waves) and island pace (the friendliest, kindest people... but a much slower way of life... takes some getting used to, but we love it).

On our flight home, as we were coming in for landing, I looked down and thought at first that it looked like a scene from a depressing futuristic movie, where everything was gray, cold and deserted, but after spending a couple days back in Montreal, and visiting our parents in Hudson, I am seeing the beauty in the winter wonderland; the sound of the snow crunching under boots, the sight of our breath, and the coziness of bundling up. The beauty of nature is all around us. Going away allows us to see it in a new light, and gives a renewed appreciation for our surroundings and our lives.

We reopen the studio today. I'm excited to see everyone and to bring some Bahamas energy to Montreal!