tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81507393171335440612024-02-18T17:57:43.892-08:00DeepBendYogakimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-85917073414392213062010-01-23T19:46:00.000-08:002010-01-23T20:38:09.124-08:00You Can Help Haiti Now!"How can I make a difference?" We cannot possibly imagine the pain, loss, suffering that our Haitian neighbors are experiencing every second. Please don't turn a blind eye because you think you cannot make an impact. There are Yoga classes that are donating 100% of the proceeds to Haitian funds, you can download Hope For Haiti Now & 100% of those funds are going to relief efforts, skip that latte & put $5 or $10 on your cell phone for the Red Cross. It may not seem like a lot but $5 here is like $2000 in Haiti. <br /><br />The money is getting there quickly...much more so than I thought. Educate yourself. Open your heart.<br /><br />Bon Courage!<br /><br />Avec beaucoup amour,<br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-16357581199541657522009-12-29T14:38:00.000-08:002009-12-29T14:45:51.764-08:00Holiday pounds!Hey everyone! Yep, that time of year has come to work off those holiday pounds. Take it slow, no injuries! Work with your trainer, local studio, even that Wii you just got (just don't let it replace your work-out!) As long as you get moving again & break a sweat, you're on the right track!<br /><br />Happy New Year All!<br /><br />Shanti,<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-62313354996695336882009-06-11T18:22:00.000-07:002009-06-11T18:35:53.451-07:00Where have I been!?!I wish I could say on a beautiful beach, watching the sun melt into the ocean...but I can't. I've been working (still love what I do), taking all kinds of fitness classes, everything from yoga (dah!) to kick-boxing. LOVE kick-boxing (Marnie rocks!), still not a huge fan of hot yoga but I do it at least once a week for detox. With the right teacher, it's not too bad. There are other things I won't go back to but I'm glad I tried.<br /><br />Bust out of your shells. Try a new form of fitness. If for nothing else, it opens your eyes to what you are currently doing.<br /><br />Have fun! Peacekimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-37653818889229491042009-04-18T09:23:00.000-07:002009-04-18T09:40:57.752-07:00Are you a Yoga Snob?Find out! Have fun :-)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.yogajournal.com/global/29">http://www.yogajournal.com/global/29</a><br /><br />Here's mine...thank goodness!<br />I'm a Balanced Yogi! </p></td></tr> <tr align="center"><td> <p><a href="http://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/quizzes_and_tools/snobquiz/balanced_yogi/"><img src="http://www.yogajournal.com/media/balanced_yogi.jpg" align="middle"></a> </p><br /><H5>A Balanced Yogi</h5><br /><p>You love your friends unconditionally and accept them for who they are no<br />matter what their yoga style preference, religious beliefs, or spending habits.<br />You focus on the good in people and would never try to change them. Almost<br />everyone feels comfortable in your presence. You live your yoga. You are an<br />inspiration to yoga students everywhere!<br>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-12712490554452085632009-03-03T08:02:00.000-08:002009-03-03T08:17:35.868-08:00Sirshahsana?I finally did it. I bought the mother of all mats...the Manduka! My balance is a bit better but will it help me as I attempt an unassisted headstand? I'll keep you posted. Keep practicing!<br /><br />Shanti,<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-40157817446501469182009-01-14T10:37:00.000-08:002009-01-14T10:58:12.661-08:00Well, Well, WellLooks like you've finally come out of the woodwork! Thanks for all the support on achieving my goal. All of you who are studying with me know I have one for all us; Astavakrasana, Eight-Angle pose, by July. We can do it!<br /><br /><a href="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/1/12981/18_2008/4.larger.jpg"></a>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-27387917762452282452008-12-31T20:07:00.000-08:002009-03-03T09:22:09.134-08:00Happy New Year!<div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkbahIQiN3VAeSDCLLKBqO-2mjny-PWqm6X0YPr7thID_eE4YKyhDi2UHUlUQnp-W9y50PMkMX-UvKSF7_oa_pqwfmYOTN72UMp0Z5fC81OgratynBUCTIni_X2GFzuwpR4tVkT6OjA2U/s1600-h/Here+I+go.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286176409300143954" style="WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 96px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkbahIQiN3VAeSDCLLKBqO-2mjny-PWqm6X0YPr7thID_eE4YKyhDi2UHUlUQnp-W9y50PMkMX-UvKSF7_oa_pqwfmYOTN72UMp0Z5fC81OgratynBUCTIni_X2GFzuwpR4tVkT6OjA2U/s200/Here+I+go.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAqBuKihcselw_fa4eJW-T7fq7PACzmaTWj_h_YaEZtdWANWMrL0fpHv0Xg4-X4VvGc5gc18YBwiAxaz6HUf2RrBIZnVFuqenyiaOrurSuvWJkLWxA3XU2BdtBmjhNEShVPL7UKfIJwk/s1600-h/She's+up.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286176666467567538" style="WIDTH: 110px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAqBuKihcselw_fa4eJW-T7fq7PACzmaTWj_h_YaEZtdWANWMrL0fpHv0Xg4-X4VvGc5gc18YBwiAxaz6HUf2RrBIZnVFuqenyiaOrurSuvWJkLWxA3XU2BdtBmjhNEShVPL7UKfIJwk/s200/She's+up.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxPibO_YNx9iC4OL7CmHxLBMqIz9QjT5JuwqB03rvfKNDFK4D-LfsgIzyKOaB_ItaNlNcWIOsyuM0rsX_lURq0NBGDEJaAzdFvgnXFq7FqWOKi9zulyuou-ZZEKvPAG4hJiG_Acgsq8Q/s1600-h/Nice!.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286176979119252674" style="WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYxPibO_YNx9iC4OL7CmHxLBMqIz9QjT5JuwqB03rvfKNDFK4D-LfsgIzyKOaB_ItaNlNcWIOsyuM0rsX_lURq0NBGDEJaAzdFvgnXFq7FqWOKi9zulyuou-ZZEKvPAG4hJiG_Acgsq8Q/s200/Nice!.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><p align="center"></p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xbtq583HoWKcNZ8rLsEjghYaI58dQV-5Do7yhi_abgDg0XMKzz7IF09bZM8mokjrJ1WhJy87PAWA9gkiSeSRqkDeb5dqdEMbq7Mn8e1gEDXcb90IXlTrpoUIoROMIttgM3glPOpEsqw/s1600-h/Yes!.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286177146885947426" style="WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xbtq583HoWKcNZ8rLsEjghYaI58dQV-5Do7yhi_abgDg0XMKzz7IF09bZM8mokjrJ1WhJy87PAWA9gkiSeSRqkDeb5dqdEMbq7Mn8e1gEDXcb90IXlTrpoUIoROMIttgM3glPOpEsqw/s200/Yes!.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><div><br /></div><div><div>I DID IT!!! My goal was to do a supported headstand by December 31, 2008 & I did! It felt so good I cried! I am going to begin 2009 with yoga, the knowledge that I can achieve my goals and nothing but the best vibes to all of you.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Shanti & Namaste,</div><br /><div></div><div>Kimberly</div></div></div>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-18074764605469050662008-12-05T12:57:00.000-08:002008-12-05T13:15:21.821-08:00HAPPY HOLIDAYS!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNV5UeoAED4fwRNTZZVoT6egl007ufiAcqzwP2trmzS-sNoylVKHJ5TYzScDylfi1-WV54EV0p4XStcr2O7FomWuJsUxMQae1WfRfsdCWkb9II3Ia8Yrr4AJhclJXGj-1vIzhlT2rppSg/s1600-h/yea,+I+know2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276417133444148850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 180px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNV5UeoAED4fwRNTZZVoT6egl007ufiAcqzwP2trmzS-sNoylVKHJ5TYzScDylfi1-WV54EV0p4XStcr2O7FomWuJsUxMQae1WfRfsdCWkb9II3Ia8Yrr4AJhclJXGj-1vIzhlT2rppSg/s200/yea,+I+know2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>It's that time of year; snow is on the trees (for some of us) and stress is in the air (for all of us!). Don't let the holiday shopping and parties get in the way of your much needed practice. If you keep your eyes open, you may find many stores offering free yoga classes to keep you on track. I am happy to share any info I have on that.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>FYI: Yoga has been my saving grace for my shoulder. My goal is to do a supported headstand by the end of the year. I have 3 weeks to go. I will do it! What's your goal?</div><br /><div></div>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-38102250762386704682008-10-20T12:44:00.000-07:002008-10-20T13:05:16.632-07:00OUCH!First off, let me say I know it's been a while and I've missed communicating with you. Now, to all my fellow <strong>Yogis & Yoginis: I'm looking for your advice</strong>. I tore my rotator cuff (diving for the phone, stupid, I know). I have a labral tear, 6 - 12 O'clock. While working with a physical therapist I have been performing as much yoga as possible.<br /><br />I would love to hear wisdom from my colleagues regarding which asanas might help in strengthening & stretching my shoulder. I can't wait to increase my range of motion! Your input is greatly appreciated.<br /><br />Namastekimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-19620194035804642942008-07-25T12:48:00.000-07:002008-07-28T09:09:05.400-07:00In Loving Memory of My Brother Joe<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHM420IA6MEgq4mPJzCKcc4T5vNMuewTB5ndBjelzRsnaResJnpEysfa3LtwKBS5SH7101qtzM76jY8NIBa7vxoDZaXZmGnOM1c8FpDlxVpeHDxJY0ve4iRGfCLXvtpgPR7AiLPZZRV0/s1600-h/Joe%5B1%5D.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227042173624588690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHM420IA6MEgq4mPJzCKcc4T5vNMuewTB5ndBjelzRsnaResJnpEysfa3LtwKBS5SH7101qtzM76jY8NIBa7vxoDZaXZmGnOM1c8FpDlxVpeHDxJY0ve4iRGfCLXvtpgPR7AiLPZZRV0/s200/Joe%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong> Born September 8, 1963</strong></div><div align="center"><strong>Passed Away July 19, 2008</strong></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;">Asatoma SadgamayaThamaso Maa Jyothir GamayaMrithyor Maa Amrutham GamayaAum Shanti Shanti Shantihi </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;">BrihadaranyakaUpanishad</span></div><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-family:times new roman;font-size:130%;">Meaning: Lead me from the unreal to the real.Lead me from darkness to light.Lead me from death to immortality.May there be peace everywhere.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.legacy.com/chicagotribune/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=113872730">http://www.legacy.com/chicagotribune/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=113872730</a>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-346757712850352672008-07-02T14:31:00.000-07:002008-07-02T14:55:25.863-07:00Strap On!<div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh263nN09vSTQAlvQBFCntNdzyrdC3pr-v0JiayhgUIU78VzisWrb9EL9-XAo0oSlah2JaqPozv5-k5irnoZf8-9_iQOy1Fttbog3MCdTB7__lZsGiQfeEJYlBTH4Kubxa2XlgThViB0uA/s1600-h/strap.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218537455483135538" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh263nN09vSTQAlvQBFCntNdzyrdC3pr-v0JiayhgUIU78VzisWrb9EL9-XAo0oSlah2JaqPozv5-k5irnoZf8-9_iQOy1Fttbog3MCdTB7__lZsGiQfeEJYlBTH4Kubxa2XlgThViB0uA/s200/strap.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk86fXLgIqQNLerQ3TtxQqcSh58sARoIjoVyzXggnbUOKhhJWvcgxjO664nxGYLJ24xtPddLb581Q-0FlNbP-U3fg7TcPT4kIj90MnPSEBYDE9MQHUwHqlZKQ2BCbUAmir26ka3Dkqbg/s1600-h/cat-bow.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218537665558947650" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNk86fXLgIqQNLerQ3TtxQqcSh58sARoIjoVyzXggnbUOKhhJWvcgxjO664nxGYLJ24xtPddLb581Q-0FlNbP-U3fg7TcPT4kIj90MnPSEBYDE9MQHUwHqlZKQ2BCbUAmir26ka3Dkqbg/s200/cat-bow.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpFkW1TwQz1bXJdGEhwzv3YZGFLi9yY1FkWMENnSDpUyF2atOxh_V7bMEXlX2ovA11ii7W1aIZZx93fvzbnmskwEbmV_Bpnxo_TqbYmtlkBFAstmYITIc4KMN1N6OhcovMsrCcavHF5Q/s1600-h/strap3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218538333376677794" style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpFkW1TwQz1bXJdGEhwzv3YZGFLi9yY1FkWMENnSDpUyF2atOxh_V7bMEXlX2ovA11ii7W1aIZZx93fvzbnmskwEbmV_Bpnxo_TqbYmtlkBFAstmYITIc4KMN1N6OhcovMsrCcavHF5Q/s200/strap3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>Have you ever tried to preform an asan and just can't make it? Take ego out of the equation and use tool; blocks, blankets, straps, to name a few. I was working on cat-bow with some very dedicated clients (5 minutes!). They found it quite challenging to keep their elbows in. Then I had them work on it using a strap as in the pictures. It prevent the elbows from splaying, making the asan easier, allowing you to focus on the benefits it provides.</div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Yoga is not a competition. Use tools to prevent injury and allow you to reach that next level on your personal journey. Shanti</div></div></div>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-7121398694464736632008-05-28T07:34:00.000-07:002008-05-28T08:19:49.479-07:00Nobody's Perfect<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kRnDQa7PZwc_vnv-G2hLXJe1r6WnFIO1_0jFkiWD81khyxOrF2pr3XE2V-oo4j_-JLkbRPAlZPZ26lAv_yZYX4E3bx86vFEoOXtD9hr3cUqj6D2ETvL6w8V4vXnsJEOfEL01SW9SG38/s1600-h/Headstand+prep.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205447003882746002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kRnDQa7PZwc_vnv-G2hLXJe1r6WnFIO1_0jFkiWD81khyxOrF2pr3XE2V-oo4j_-JLkbRPAlZPZ26lAv_yZYX4E3bx86vFEoOXtD9hr3cUqj6D2ETvL6w8V4vXnsJEOfEL01SW9SG38/s200/Headstand+prep.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfiEghrK_Qz5LjAp71I0mf9vc54aoRzNJr29JHvadWFwyX64A8yBEX7y9Bp75QzOJ9ZjHdu1iW2Z81-kANun8zJCi0bTwJOA6rMFLHH7bl6NLEIStvHzM6pkZdId3oDb7jXQEQNBvIXko/s1600-h/Going+over.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205447240105947314" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfiEghrK_Qz5LjAp71I0mf9vc54aoRzNJr29JHvadWFwyX64A8yBEX7y9Bp75QzOJ9ZjHdu1iW2Z81-kANun8zJCi0bTwJOA6rMFLHH7bl6NLEIStvHzM6pkZdId3oDb7jXQEQNBvIXko/s200/Going+over.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kRnDQa7PZwc_vnv-G2hLXJe1r6WnFIO1_0jFkiWD81khyxOrF2pr3XE2V-oo4j_-JLkbRPAlZPZ26lAv_yZYX4E3bx86vFEoOXtD9hr3cUqj6D2ETvL6w8V4vXnsJEOfEL01SW9SG38/s1600-h/Headstand+prep.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205447102666993826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCNMBtFbPhCm57xP_2RyhF6N5KolYyoYZScK5gT1PxB4qW_hq7O-gcHO9-CFHYj923sRMUtkamz1vATCeHpTihux6-JqlTF5OOAAkGuhmtbCOTci_jQsT-xttKbocPobwt6JAOrMv7rQ/s200/Going+up.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I promised pictures & thanks to my lovely photographer Amanda I'm here to deliver...but I am presenting an asana I did not mention, headstand. Not only is it SO much fun, it is packed with benefits. It improves core strength, digestion, calms the brain, and strengthens arms & much more. CAUTION: DO NOT ATTEMPT UNLESS YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED YOGI OR ASSISTANCED.<br /><br />As you can see, even instructors have off days. I did not create a proper base as my elbows were too far apart. What I did do right though & what I’d like you to keep in mind is once I realized I was going over I placed my right foot forward to catch me, landing in a semi-backbend which is much better than landing ON your back! (we’ve all done it at least once) Be careful, have fun. Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-47333103921373596952008-05-12T21:29:00.000-07:002008-05-14T08:55:23.260-07:00"But it's easy"I had an encounter today. I received a compliment on my arms and was asked what I do. "I teach yoga". "But that's easy!" I laughed & sent her to my blog. Anyone who has held Warrior2 so long that their legs begin to shake; successfully performs a one legged side-plank, crow, or even tree pose will attest to the fact that easy is not the first adjective which comes to mind. Yoga is a balance of the mind, body & spirit...a challenge which takes years of practice.<br /><br />Feel free to express your opinion here. Pictures & descriptive instructions of the afore mentioned poses coming soon.<br /><br />Shanti,<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-84075154189894349202008-04-09T21:28:00.000-07:002008-04-10T11:21:17.371-07:00The Body Believes What the Mind Tells ItOur minds are so powerful! You have more power than you are using. If you are working on a pose and you tell yourself "I can't", you're right! Your body will hold on to that theory with every muscle it has. Now...breath. Tell yourself "I can!" and celebrate every step you make toward your ultimate goal (Warrior 3 is a challenge!) Soon enough you'll find yourself holding plank without counting the minutes or gracefully lifting yourself into backbends and headstands. Have fun with your practice, believe in yourself and work with a supportive instructor.<br /><br />Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-88904600695055330572008-03-27T18:57:00.000-07:002008-03-27T19:18:39.221-07:00ChakrasWe have 7 main chakras which are the energy centers of our bodies;Crown, Third Eye, Throat, Heart, Solar Plexus, Sacral, and Root. Every asana (pose) affects a chakra. It is important to open and balance these energy centers for both physical and mental benefits. Have you ever had an instructor tell you to breathe through your heart center? Balancing that fourth chakra increases your capacity toward love and compassion.<br /><br />Ask your instructor which poses you need to do to balance, strengthening your personal practice. I am also happy to discuss the subject further.<br /><br />Shanti,<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-61724785848451251932008-03-12T09:13:00.000-07:002008-03-12T09:37:37.447-07:00I'm Back!Coming out of my 3rd week of the flu, I understand how frustrating it is to put your yoga practice on hold. While it is necessary (and nearly impossible) to physically practice, you can use this down-time to meditate. Don't push it...allow yourself time to heal. Your body will tell you when you are ready to perform asanas again. In the meantime, a neti pot and ginger tea may be your best friends!<br /><br />Wishing you health & happiness!<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-18960443031453448512008-02-18T12:32:00.000-08:002008-02-18T12:57:12.306-08:00Stay Hydrated!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_p2bAMJX5XLBeD2kklqRh_0BKVQ8TEI_Yt_5fTIgBd5cMuRDInnTSb-y9r4mBnLY9mrZDpJsBg26n5SypsuVV4iOQUmpMQpvDtTohdsZJHDnJKZFFHa5J_4lozbEGrAPDCXwT4wohjwk/s1600-h/KimBeach%5B1%5D.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_p2bAMJX5XLBeD2kklqRh_0BKVQ8TEI_Yt_5fTIgBd5cMuRDInnTSb-y9r4mBnLY9mrZDpJsBg26n5SypsuVV4iOQUmpMQpvDtTohdsZJHDnJKZFFHa5J_4lozbEGrAPDCXwT4wohjwk/s320/KimBeach%5B1%5D.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5168426476948870418" /></a><br />A lot of people have asked me about certain forms of yoga which focus on raising your body temperature. Here is my pat answer; while I choose to teach Hatha and Vinyasa Flow, there is a form out there for everyone. Just be very careful. No matter which form you choose, you are going to sweat (even the ladies). It is very important that you keep your body hydrated as it is quite difficult to practice yoga if you faint or worse. Choose your form carefully. Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-59304869276224973772008-02-09T11:15:00.000-08:002008-02-18T13:50:04.124-08:00Ahhh...SavasanaEveryone’s favorite pose; so peaceful, so relaxing, but also an extremely important (and difficult!) part of your practice. This is the time to release all external thoughts, allowing your body to fall into utter, complete relaxation. During this time, the lactic acids are traveling out of your muscles so you won’t have that “next day soreness” one often feels after physical exertion. Don’t rush Savasana. Scan your body for any tension and release on exhalations. Allow your breath to flow naturally, softly. Turn to your right side after a period of anywhere between 5 – 30 minutes. Rest for a moment before you raise yourself with your arms, your head being the last to come up. As with any asana, the more you practice… :-)<br /><br />Shanti<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-67858671702827687102008-01-24T11:04:00.000-08:002008-01-24T11:25:42.775-08:00No pain no gain????Recently I’ve seen advertisements for exercise programs which encourage participants to “push through the pain”. The practice of yoga teaches us the opposite. You can challenge yourself when performing yoga but stop before any pose becomes painful. If you are experiencing pain, talk to your instructor; change your alignment, back out of the pose. Enjoy the benefits your practice can bring you without injury. Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-6103579630329899732008-01-10T11:40:00.000-08:002008-01-10T12:08:27.286-08:001440There are 1,440 minutes in a day. Out of those, how many do you spend in peace? By peace I mean no TV, no radio, no books, no speaking (and sleeping doesn't count!). Try this; find a comfortable place in your home, light a candle or incense. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes and take 5 minutes for yourself. Just breathe, softly, gently. Pay attention to your breath...don't fight it, don't guide it, just let it flow.<br><br>You can set a timer if this is a challenge for you. Your body, mind and spirit deserve this break. Out of 1,440 minutes, we can all find 5 to give ourselves. Who knows, over time, you may find you no longer require a timer!<br><br><br />Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-40040058302804957032007-12-31T11:25:00.000-08:002007-12-31T13:16:25.177-08:00Resolution time<strong>HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!</strong>Instead of going with a corny 2008 rhyme, I decided to reprint the article I published in a local paper regarding some of the benfits of yoga. My contact info is at the end. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Happy reading!<BR><BR>WHAT’S HAPPENING<BR><BR><STRONG>Yoga: Is it Just for Women?</STRONG><BR>When you hear someone say, “I take yoga,” what is the first thing you usually hear? Most likely, it is “wow, you must be flexible!” There is a misconception that Yoga is a form of exercise geared toward women to increase flexibility. It’s time to burst that bubble. Yoga is for more than just women. Some of the most respected Yoga practitioners in the world are male. It is also much more than an exercise; it is a way of life, an attitude. Will you gain flexibility? Absolutely. However, the benefits of Yoga have been proven to be much greater than simply allowing oneself to bend into pretzel-like positions. Yoga proves to be an excellent muscle toner that provides fluid movements of the joints, ligaments and tendons and aids in resisting stress and detoxifying the body. Yoga practitioners enjoy better posture, resulting in proper functioning of the organs and digestive system. Proper practice increases lung capacity, eases arthritis and can cure varicose veins. Studies have shown that Savasana, everyone’s favorite position of resting tranquilly on your back, can reduce high blood pressure, lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and calms the nervous system. All these benefits can serve as a base for an exercise regime including weights, aerobics, Pilates, swimming, or whatever it is you enjoy; or you can dedicate yourself to full Yoga practice. The important part is to start with an instructor, and not with a book or video. Yoga is not a do-it-yourself kit. It is an oral tradition passed down thousands of years. It is extremely important to have the guidance of an experienced instructor who can tailor positions to your specific needs and abilities. Find an instructor and setting, be it studio or private, who you are comfortable with. The goal of any instructor should be to assist you in opening and guiding you along your path, not simply reaching a destination. Hatha Yoga is a great place to begin. The movements are soft, patient, and deliberate. But don’t fool yourself; you will be challenged and you will sweat. If you are experienced and are looking for a more vigorous session, Vinyasa Flow may be more suitable for you. These are only two of the many forms of Yoga offered. No matter which form you choose to practice, you will become more in tune with your body, reap multiple health benefits and enjoy life more! So gentlemen (not just ladies), buy yourself a sticky-mat and join others in the fantastic journey of balancing your mind, body and spirit.<BR><BR><strong>Contributed by Kimberly Bradshaw, Yoga Instructor and DeepBendYoga proprietor. Email her at</strong> <a href="mailto:kimberlyyogini@yahoo.com">kimberlyyogini@yahoo.com</a>kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-36033446695234338542007-12-23T09:32:00.000-08:002007-12-23T09:34:46.738-08:00Happy HolidaysHave a safe and joyous holiday! Don't forget to practice :-)<br /><br />Shanti<br /><br />Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-49777140387812002102007-12-19T12:33:00.000-08:002007-12-19T12:46:07.962-08:00PeaceFeeling hectic? Try this one; <strong>OM SHANTI, SHANTI, SHANTI </strong>(Om, peace, peace, peace). Shanti is repeated three times as an interpretation of peace in the body, mind and spirit. Be mindful when you chant. Say this as many times as you need to; until you feel yourself release. You can use prayer beads as a guide if you'd like and repeat the chant 108 times. Best wishes and Shanti. Kimberlykimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-54354165339401258652007-12-12T12:03:00.000-08:002007-12-12T13:05:17.252-08:00MantrasYes, chanting. When I first began practicing yoga, I thought "the chanting part" was kind-of weird. It's ok. Give yourself time to open up to the idea. If you are in a class and they are chanting and you don't feel comfortable, simply listen. Feel the vibrations and at some point you may find it turns into music. The point is to help you focus, to prepare you for meditation, to turn the outside world off. Here is one for you to try on your own:<br /><br /><strong><em>OM NAMAH SHIVYA </em></strong>(pronounced:aum nahmah shi vi ya)<br />Generally translated it means "I bow to Shiva, the Inner Self or Consciousness" further translating to "I bow to my inner self". It is a very powerful mantra. You are honoring who you are and that which you are capable to become. Many miracles have come to individuals after this chant. Who knows. I would love to hear your stories. ***Never chant a mantra without full understanding of its meaning. Shantikimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8150739317133544061.post-87774837416426095312007-12-05T13:45:00.000-08:002007-12-05T14:32:45.634-08:00Tree Pose BalanceJust a little tip; whether you have your foot to the opposing ankle or can raise it all the way up to your inner thigh, make sure you are pushing your knee out and back. This will help you a great deal to maintain balance. Once you feel balanced, reach your arms either straight up & clasp your hands or into a 'v' shape and breath. Those beautiful trees need no decoration! :-)kimberlyyoginihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06460312613055455979noreply@blogger.com0