tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42315020474719615012024-03-05T13:38:16.535-06:00A Message From Tracy Von KaenelYoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-87293712031966068892019-07-25T22:32:00.000-05:002019-07-25T22:32:02.074-05:00Rainforest Rejuvenation Retreat 2020Yoga Experience is excited to announce the retreat for 2020. Come join us for a week in paradise April 5-11, 2020. Beautiful Costa Rica's Arenal Rainforest welcomes you. Enjoy practicing yoga twice a day in a beautiful outdoor shala. Three healthy organic meals a day. Plenty of activities, or none at all. Be a part of this life changing experience. <br />
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Go to : <a href="https://truenaturetravels.com/retreat/yoga-costa-rica-tracy">https://truenaturetravels.com/retreat/yoga-costa-rica-tracy</a> for all the information.<br />
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<br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comCosta Rica9.7489169999999987 -83.7534279999999851.7311089999999982 -94.080576499999978 17.766725 -73.426279499999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-8889780602507243442017-04-09T20:12:00.002-05:002017-04-09T20:12:50.907-05:00Destination Retreat 2017/18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br />Yoga Experience is delighted to announce our next destination retreat. We'll be traveling to beautiful Costa Rica to enjoy the serenity of nature and the beauty of this thrilling land. Come join us Saturday January 13th through Thursday January 18th for 6 days of yoga, nature, gourmet vegetarian meals, and so much more. Details below.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">6 day 5 night yoga retreat in the jungle</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Exclusive use of the resort just for us</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Two Yoga classes a day plus meditations and Dharma lessons</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Infinity pool and whirlpool</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Includes transport to and from Liberia airport and the resort</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Three gourmet vegetarian meals daily</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Indoor and Outdoor Yoga Shala</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">Close proximity to four beautiful beaches plus lots of optional tours </span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">including </span><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">zipping</span><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: small;">, hiking, snorkeling etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;"><u><b>FEES</b></u></span></div>
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<a href="blob:https://www.blogger.com/0090aa57-ddef-46e5-8235-ad2519bcbf21" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Double--One Bed (couple) $950 per person</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Double—Two Beds/Two People--$995 per
person</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Triple—Three Single Beds--$950/person</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8pt;"> </span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">*Maximum...11 Cabins plus Three Triple Rooms</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 8pt;"> </span><br /><u><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Non-refundable 20% deposit due by August 1<sup>st</sup>,
2017</span></u><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">50% deposit due by September 1</span><sup style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">st</sup><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">, 2017</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Full payment due by January 1</span><sup style="color: red; font-family: Arial;">st</sup><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">, 2018</span><br /><span style="color: red; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt;">Payable to Tracy Von Kaenel</span><br /> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHHtV9J6H2c2E4WVVy5ucWrwWxHY_yxEEEh_tAQ0mVQA8SzDGN1Hyv7yhO0mb8e6O2p9PSgq-Ujlyhm7LzMc5zYwQGf5kKXNWGQ1APzHedmCVkJ2Riw23zuKa8JDtiANfWwu5DiowwzGg/s1600/exterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHHtV9J6H2c2E4WVVy5ucWrwWxHY_yxEEEh_tAQ0mVQA8SzDGN1Hyv7yhO0mb8e6O2p9PSgq-Ujlyhm7LzMc5zYwQGf5kKXNWGQ1APzHedmCVkJ2Riw23zuKa8JDtiANfWwu5DiowwzGg/s320/exterior.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red;"> Spaces are filling fast! Contact us soon if you want to go. tracy@yogaexperience.net</span><br /><br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-4452069663722539422015-12-14T09:51:00.000-06:002015-12-14T09:51:28.031-06:00Look for The Good by Renee Schwartz<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: -13.5pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">For several months I have been
thinking about writing a follow-up to the student discovery blog I wrote in
March 2014 about my Dharma lessons with Tracy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What I’m writing now is quite different than what it would
have been if it had been written even two or three weeks ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Loosely defined, Dharma is your
life’s path, how you live your life responsibly, knowing and respecting your
authentic self. Each person’s dharmic path is different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dharma lessons bring awareness to
reducing suffering and remind us to live in the present.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">My Dharma lessons have covered
the Yamas (moral restraints, such as non-violence and nonstealing) and the
Niyamas (self discipline, such as cleanliness and self-study).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The principles of the Yamas and Niyamas
have been applied to experiences as wide ranging as fear, aging, injury,
obstacles and challenges faced and overcome, spirituality, the wonder of nature
and our role in it, death, life, and everything in-between. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Tracy leads the lessons with
wisdom, compassion, and patience, which doesn’t mean that she doesn’t also
challenge and make me look deeply at things I might rather ignore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we don’t always agree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the lessons, always instructive,
sometimes difficult and painful, sometimes incredibly illuminating and freeing,
have made a real difference in my life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What I have come to realize
these last few weeks is that the Dharma lessons have changed me in ways I
hadn’t fully appreciated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew
that I was more open to people and experiences, and sometimes, at least, less
fearful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I knew that I could at
least sometimes pause before I responded so that I didn’t say or do something
that would hurt someone else, or me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I more often than before have a better sense of my
authentic self, and can more often make decisions based on my truths rather
than on what I think others might expect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What I wasn’t as aware of was
how the Dharma lessons have influenced my actions and reactions to the events
of the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The last few weeks
and months have been particularly difficult locally, nationally, and
internationally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>News about
violence and hatred spews out from radios, TVs, newspapers, computers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is overwhelming, and I feel intense
sorrow and despair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Now, however, I am also more
aware of my ability and responsibility to shift my energy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world is suffering and there are
grave ills to be addressed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
my Yoga practice in general, and the Dharma lessons in particular, I can focus
on sending love into a hate-filled world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can better look for ways each day to add light
rather than darkness, hope rather than fear, peace and healing rather than
hatred.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is not all that can be
done, but it is surely a better place to work from than where I would have been
without Yoga and the Dharma lessons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Look for the good’ Tracy often says. ‘Be present, trust your
intuition, pause before you act.’ I often resist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But step by step, I grow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">As always, I’m eager to share if
anyone would like to know more about my Dharma lesson experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-65932894308110058692015-11-19T11:08:00.002-06:002015-11-19T11:08:34.258-06:00Update from Maureen<span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">In April 2015, I wrote some of my life story and the positive role the practice of Yoga has made to my state of well-being.</span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">Now, I have an update. </span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">On October 6, I had a left hip revision , which resulted in a new ball and socket. This was the fourth surgery on this hip and I was told it should last until "they throw dirt on my face".</span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">After three years of Yoga, 3 to 4 times per week with the very best Yoga instructor, Tracy Von Kaenel and her Yoga community, I knew that I was stronger and more flexible going into the surgery than I had ever been. However, it wasn't until after the surgery, when I first stood up and started doing therapy that I knew for a fact that this was going to be the best outcome I have had post any previous surgery. Decreased pain and a rapid return to functionality where proof that Yoga really does make a difference.</span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">I am deeply grateful to Tracy and to my Yoga family for the love and support you gave me and continue to give me as I slowly progress on toward a full Yoga practice once again. </span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">Namaste</span><br style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">Thank you Thank you</span><br />
<span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 13px;">Maureen Littlefield</span>Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-5229546023822639132015-09-08T14:10:00.000-05:002015-09-08T14:10:18.588-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5RjvbktDcfpSVNSJDgJGkAwhDgx_GxRrB0aJ2KKxSuWyuFCRlXEb-VgtDf4-YPEjdDmTf-hs7aruMyz4JT0yiHUE4dAuHI_aByOruNXiS8QLOESgWB5jMCw6eTnAgDEG2UncBMLpB18/s1600/RAW_2015fweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ5RjvbktDcfpSVNSJDgJGkAwhDgx_GxRrB0aJ2KKxSuWyuFCRlXEb-VgtDf4-YPEjdDmTf-hs7aruMyz4JT0yiHUE4dAuHI_aByOruNXiS8QLOESgWB5jMCw6eTnAgDEG2UncBMLpB18/s320/RAW_2015fweb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yoga Experience is thrilled to be participating in this years Ravenswood Art Walk. Come by and see what's going on in your local neighborhood yoga studio. Here's the line-up of activities.<br />
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<u><b>Saturday 9/19</b></u> <br />
10:30-11:00 a.m. FREE mediation class (start your day right with peace and harmony!) <br />
11:15-12:15 FREE beginning level yoga class. Class sizes very limited. Come early to get a spot. Please bring your own mat!<br />
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<u><b>Sunday 9/20</b></u><br />
12:30-1:30 p.m. Come be inspired as you watch an entertaining Yoga Demo, Aerial Yoga Demo, and Aerial Yoga Dance performed to music by the students and staff of Yoga Experience, then be a part of something great as we invite everyone to join us in a Chant for Peace. Also on Sunday there will be a raffle for free classes, and refreshments.<br />
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Ravenswood Art Walk is a great chance to check out all the wonderful businesses, studios, artists and more along this busy section of the city. Hope to see you there!<br />
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<br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-86931165511372964902015-07-08T12:36:00.000-05:002015-07-08T12:36:12.519-05:00Five Feathers of Aerial Yoga by Donald Gecewicz<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zsp311IHOmWGkEBDxDMxdtYIXVypTGKw4pbv6ZFFiKVb4ZRZUcCr1h8tdw8JxVBJI9wB3d9RhBhJQq0hcGEAhy1Y-334C66GNRti1SmsF_QMnNwtts7jQUjwRKU80SEaF-o2ROKJdlM/s1600/IMG_4367_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zsp311IHOmWGkEBDxDMxdtYIXVypTGKw4pbv6ZFFiKVb4ZRZUcCr1h8tdw8JxVBJI9wB3d9RhBhJQq0hcGEAhy1Y-334C66GNRti1SmsF_QMnNwtts7jQUjwRKU80SEaF-o2ROKJdlM/s320/IMG_4367_2.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">1.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Balance<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">We rely much
on the floor remaining where it is and on distributing our weight upon it on
our two feet and, sometimes, a hand. Even Warrior 3 is bound to the floor. Black
silk changes that relationship and re-balances. I like to swing wrapped in the
“pod” at the end, feeling my ears and the little bones in the ears
re-calculating balance and equilibrium. Once back on the floor, and in floor
positions, I find that my balance is reset and refined. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">And here’s a
haiku<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">like any
pose balancing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">on slim
fingertips.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">2.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Strength<br />
In floor work, we both become strong and experience our strength through
standing still. Standing still is a sensation with much meaning, given how unsettled
everything is. Aerial involves more movement—but movement that is strengthening
because it is steady. Hefting the body. Testing the arms. Lifting yourself up.
Using the hips to pivot slowly. Muscles engage differently from positions on
the floor, and the body becomes toned differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">The daily
forces<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">hold us up
but wrist locks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">unlock new
strengths<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">3.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Harmony<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">In Chinese
poetry, a poem harmonizes with another if it reflects the tones of the words
and the structure of the rimes. The poses in the air harmonize with poses on
the floor. We are familiar with being dogs, warriors, and birds on the ground. Insight
comes as we reconfigure the pose while suspended. A tree on a cliff, a dancer
mid-leap, a tiger climbing. The poses in the air test muscles in a new way.
It’s good to go from floor to mid-air, from aerial yoga to more traditional
floor work, harmonizing the two styles. Hovering also realigns the skeleton,
sometimes with a crackle toward symmetry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">That stork
hovering<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">above the
shining wood<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">may be me,
airborne.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">4.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Antigravity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Aerial yoga
is an easy experiment to feel what else supports us: Our arms suspended, our
feet wrapped in cloth, the air itself, our hips and legs pointed up rather than
down. Even if only a few feet off the ground, aerial positions alter our body’s
anticipation of heft and perception of weight. We also feel, again, that air
has mass. We slide and glide within the air as birds do. I am reminded of a Thai
carving that I have of a hamsa, the sacred swan. The flight of the hamsa
symbolizes </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "American Typewriter"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">moksha</span><span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">
or nirvana--release. All that, and a good workout.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">Antigravity<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">to arrive at
perception<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">that there
is no down<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">5.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Learning to Fly<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">If you have misgivings
about flipping over and remaining suspended, the way to dispel hesitancy is to
do it. It enhances health to experience a minor fear melting away. Doing yoga
with winged feet makes me a better airline passenger, a better flyer. I have
felt my own body cutting the air, much as an airplane does. So there is a
practical, psychic benefit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";"><br />
That flight to Zurich<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4231502047471961501" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">chocolates
and levity:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "American Typewriter";">cloudless,
so much light. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-6081923885436439132015-04-14T12:42:00.000-05:002015-04-14T12:42:51.595-05:00Yoga IS For Everyone! by Maureen Littlefield<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_Uo43FjpmRx4DQthGd1X1w8jZdNNky771DuNYdfoViy-fk7yyogUzV3PCdh_ZzjMp-5N6tHf_KHMrC3JeHJWO4jLtvNkWjsZgKf5fK6hT5N8aTCghKe2Z0SdeMMoCa720XvSA3kCbrE/s1600/IMG_1229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU_Uo43FjpmRx4DQthGd1X1w8jZdNNky771DuNYdfoViy-fk7yyogUzV3PCdh_ZzjMp-5N6tHf_KHMrC3JeHJWO4jLtvNkWjsZgKf5fK6hT5N8aTCghKe2Z0SdeMMoCa720XvSA3kCbrE/s1600/IMG_1229.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">If you are 65 or older, with one or more joint replacements, you may think YOGA is not for you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Consider my story:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> It begins when I first started to walk and my parents noticed I walked with a limp. My left leg was smaller and shorter than the right leg. Years of traction, braces, and physical therapy did not make me better. The Physicians did not know what was wrong. My parents had Pulmonary Tuberculosis and there were no cures in the early fifties and they passed away. When I was nine, my mother’s sister and her husband took me in their home, and my brother and sister went to other relatives. In those days no one could afford to take all three of us and raise us together. My Aunt Ruth, who I loved very much, took me to the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placetype w:st="on">University</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Illinois</st1:placename></st1:place> where they said I had Tuberculosis of the left hip joint. My siblings did not contract the disease and I see it as fortunate that it settled in my hip and not in my lungs as I would not be here now.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">When I was 15yrs old, my entire hip joint was removed and replaced with a portion of my fibula bone which is called a hip fusion. After 2yrs of medicinal treatment and the surgery my TB was gone. That hip fusion served me well for 31yrs, but the down side was that all of my muscles on the left side from the knee to lower back shriveled up<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">due to lack of use. So, in 1993 at the age of 47, they took down the fusion and put in a new artificial hip joint. What a joy this was as after much therapy I could ride a bike, bend over and tie my shoes and do many other everyday tasks.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> So, this brings me to the present. In 2012, at the age of 65, I had a left knee replacement and I was told “you need YOGA”. This is not a direction in which I would have gone for exercise as I did not know or understand the value of YOGA. Now, after three years of taking YOGA classes, at least three to four times a week, my strength, flexibility and peace of mind have greatly improved. I had then and still have the good fortune to have Tracy Von Kaenel as my YOGA instructor. <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Tracy</st1:place></st1:city>’s YOGA community is energetic, warm and supportive. She consistently brings a creative skill to each class (no two classes are alike) and more importantly she mentors each of us individually according to our need. She walks around the studio during class observing and making suggestions to modify our YOGA practice to our benefit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> I am grateful for the progress I have made, in spite of many limitations, thanks to the unfailing skill, encouragement and good cheer <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Tracy</st1:city></st1:place> brings to each class.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;"> COME JOIN US</span></span></div>
Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-7314802446394651102014-11-26T11:13:00.000-06:002014-11-26T11:48:26.743-06:00Holiday Season <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlP6VZzVHI2f7NyM_IRF-Qp85EVEFxCS9wE0Jgy6pDVX3oljQBXnx7HDyYOxM_znB9fXCzdccdxtrgnOoA0EYNdQbBq7YS1_LKfP2KNXWH3Vh0_nR2WyUFnk8eP7YIwdUkLVWCzxsui3c/s1600/dsktoppicforxmas.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlP6VZzVHI2f7NyM_IRF-Qp85EVEFxCS9wE0Jgy6pDVX3oljQBXnx7HDyYOxM_znB9fXCzdccdxtrgnOoA0EYNdQbBq7YS1_LKfP2KNXWH3Vh0_nR2WyUFnk8eP7YIwdUkLVWCzxsui3c/s1600/dsktoppicforxmas.bmp" height="150" width="200" /></a>Once again it is time for the onslaught of holidays. There are so many reasons to be filled with joy this season, but for some, it's easy to be overwhelmed. It can be challenging to keep everything in balance as most of us are pulled and pushed in many directions, depleting our energy, finances and time. As with other times in life the mantra "everything in moderation" can be an effective tool. It is possible to go to the parties, handle the extra load on the finances and keep the good cheer alive if we learn to make good choices and protect ourselves in the process. Remember that it's important to nurture your body and spirit so you can continue to be nurturing to others. It is not selfish to take care of you....it is in fact the greatest gift. When you attend to your needs, the energy you bring into the world is from a place of love, contentment, grace. Exactly what the world needs. What a gift indeed. Whatever it is you celebrate this season, celebrate with love and joy!<br />
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<span style="color: red;">Holiday Class Schedule</span></div>
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<b><u>All classes run as normal except for the following cancellations</u>:</b></div>
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Thursday November 27th.....Thanksgiving</div>
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Wednesday December 24th.....Christmas Eve</div>
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Thursday December 25th.....Christmas Day</div>
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Thursday January 1st.....New Years Day</div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">And look on the website for new classes starting in January including Aerial Yoga and Saturday classes!</span></div>
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<br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-79799235447922414342014-10-12T16:03:00.000-05:002014-10-12T16:03:10.227-05:00A New Beginning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With the change of the seasons comes another big change for Yoga with Tracy Von Kaenel. It isn't always good circumstances that make us change, but change we do. And in and of itself, change is a good thing. So...here we go! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Welcome to Yoga Experience! A new warm and inviting studio for you to explore the joys of Yoga, Aerial Yoga, Zen Yoga, Yogassage, TaijiFit, and so much more. A place where a dedicated group of people have created a community of love and support. A place to grow, and experience life. Yoga Experience is located at 4619 N. Ravenswood, Suite 100. It's a groovy Art Deco building. There is free parking after 5:00 p.m. Before 5:00 p.m. parking is available one half block south on Ravenswood or there is neighborhood street parking one block north.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Classes begin November 3rd, with a newly expanded schedule. (See below) I look forward to welcoming you to the new studio. I look forward to continuing to offer new and exciting, ever evolving classes for you. I look forward to deepening the roots of an every growing loving community. Welcome, welcome....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u><b>New Schedule as of November 3rd, 2014</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Monday</u> : Open Level Yoga 6:15 p.m.-7:15 p.m.(<span style="color: red;">New!</span>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Zen Yoga 7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Tuesday</u>: TaijiFit 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.(<span style="color: red;">New!</span>)(taught by Sas Stark)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Beginning Yoga 6:00 p.m.-7:15 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Wednesday</u>: Intermediate Yoga 6:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Thursday</u>: TaijiFit 10:00a.m.-11:00 a.m.(<span style="color: red;">New!</span>)(taught by Sas Stark)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Open Level Yoga 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.(<span style="color: red;">New!</span>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Coming Soon.</i></b>..Beginning Aerial Yoga, Intermediate Aerial Yoga, Saturday Yoga Classes and Meditation!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>More details: </i></b><span style="color: red;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Prices are changing too. Single class rate is $18, 10-pack $150.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Soon the website will have all the info you need to know PLUS the ability to sign up online for classes and pay for them via credit card online .... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All that and more is on it's way!! Oh, and don't forget, Grand Opening Open House Sunday November 9th, 1-4 p.m. Come, see, chat, eat, win a raffle prize!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank you for your patience as all this new stuff rolls out. Everything takes time, and patience....what a great yoga lesson eh?</span></div>
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Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-55933690956613845642014-08-15T15:54:00.000-05:002014-08-15T15:54:22.131-05:00What Nobody Tells You About Yoga by Laura Stumpf
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<span style="color: #272727;">When people tell their friends to try
yoga, they always say, “You’ll feel so good! I’m always so relaxed after yoga.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">What they don’t tell you is that
sometimes, <i>yoga makes you feel like shit</i>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">Some yogis say that </span><span style="color: black;">emotions are
stored in the body</span><span style="color: #272727;">, that memories linger on in cells stored deep in
our muscles. When we go into a yoga pose and open a part of the body that has
been mostly left alone until then, we stretch and release muscles that have
gone unnoticed for years. We release tension, and in the process release
memories and emotions that were stored in childhood, and have quietly slept
deep in our bones ever since.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">So one minute you may be lying on
your back, enjoying happy baby, and the next minute you are flooded with rage
and want to punch a baby in the face. You have no idea what triggered it, there
is no reason to be feeling this emotion now, but it’s here and it’s real and it
has to be worked through.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">I’m not sure if I think emotions are
stored in our muscles, but it makes perfect sense to me that yoga brings up
emotions. In our practice, we learn to </span><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: black;">control our
breath, to calm our minds</span></span><span style="color: #272727;">, to help our bodies unwind. At first, this
is great—we sleep better at night, we’re less stressed, and we feel great
having released the tension from our shoulders. We learn to cope with our
day-to-day stress, to release the muscles we have tensed up with our daily
activities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">On the surface, everything is going
great. <i>But we are multidimensional beings, with long emotional histories</i>.
We have been sad and scared and lonely in the past, and we have suppressed old
scars and defeats and humiliations just to be able to function in our everyday
lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">As we learn to connect to our breath,
yoga starts working more efficiently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">Stress, anxiety, tension—wiped out!
So it starts working on the backlog, trying to sort through some of that old
mess, so you can finally unclutter your innermost being. Things you haven’t
thought about in years suddenly rise up in Warrior II, and </span><span style="text-decoration: none;">you can’t stop
crying in</span><span style="color: #fc1907; text-decoration: none;"> </span><i style="color: #272727;"><span style="color: #272727; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Savasana</span></i><span style="color: #fc1907; text-decoration: none;"> </span><span style="color: #272727;">because you’re infinitely sad and have no idea
why.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">It’s easy to feel like a lunatic when
one of these emotional tidal waves strikes in the middle of yoga class. Nobody
warned me about this phenomenon, and the first time I experienced it I was
worrying about what other people thought of the tears running down my face
instead of being present and feeling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwLV7LJBhMIPaBCb4hNfSG7NLgR7noVzvRoDCIHBcZAcdLHyOYm2x8rANQIn_tUJjrbryoR5CYEKFZfJiarL5vz2rHqw4TJrw-2IhsxorqfUHsQ4ZfushJy60EywVSOPfESVLx8fyVEw/s1600/IMG_0258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwLV7LJBhMIPaBCb4hNfSG7NLgR7noVzvRoDCIHBcZAcdLHyOYm2x8rANQIn_tUJjrbryoR5CYEKFZfJiarL5vz2rHqw4TJrw-2IhsxorqfUHsQ4ZfushJy60EywVSOPfESVLx8fyVEw/s1600/IMG_0258.JPG" height="149" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #272727;">In Savasana, I lay on the floor,
looking up at my teacher with teary eyes, pleading for an explanation. She just
smiled and whispered, “<i>It feels good to let it out.</i>” Once she had
given me permission to give in to the experience, my muscles immediately
relaxed. I closed my eyes and felt the tears running down my face, and I felt
all the sadness emptying out of my body. I felt so deeply relieved and
peaceful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">I will always be grateful to that
yoga instructor. She gave me a place where it was safe to feel all of the
stress that had been accumulating in my life, to surrender, and to let it go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">It’s a cathartic process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">In the moment, it sucks. It sucks to
feel sad, to feel angry, to feel pain. But at the same time, it feels really
good to finally, fully feel. If you can create a safe space for yourself, in
your body—to experience these emotions without judging, just accepting whatever
comes up, and riding the wave—you, my friend, are really doing yoga. Your
practice is far more advanced than the man who can put his feet behind his
head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;"><i><span style="color: #272727;"><span style="font-size: large;">The more we
release our pasts, the more we are able to be present and enjoy everything that
this moment has to offer.</span></span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #272727;">So don’t try to hold back your tears,
and don’t tell yourself that you’re being ridiculous the next time pigeon pose
makes you want to bawl your eyes out. Remember, if yoga makes you feel like
shit, that just means it’s working<span style="font-size: 13pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-90856566261577670722014-03-27T11:22:00.000-05:002014-03-27T11:23:58.861-05:00Living Our Dharmic Path by Renee Schwartz<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQUY1_rFlamv7EC91s8Pa8b0Vxq2DJ2POudageNYaVlW1RDfXjkKIer8hMTXVAtHROz2MSjZjgyIjwqF7UQyk6hyphenhyphen8elrLvzy5RrRWOA5QSMi-sCP7MDJioP2BBecHbxWAHlPvmP2SmAo/s1600/sunday+sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQUY1_rFlamv7EC91s8Pa8b0Vxq2DJ2POudageNYaVlW1RDfXjkKIer8hMTXVAtHROz2MSjZjgyIjwqF7UQyk6hyphenhyphen8elrLvzy5RrRWOA5QSMi-sCP7MDJioP2BBecHbxWAHlPvmP2SmAo/s1600/sunday+sunrise.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A year ago I began dharma
lessons with Tracy, and the anniversary prompted me to think about where I’ve
been and where I’m going, and to share it with my yoga friends….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What would a life look like if
yoga philosophy and teachings were actively applied to it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What would my life look like?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What would happen if I expanded my yoga
practice to look seriously at what it offered as a guide to a more mindful way
of approaching each day? Was it really possible to view life differently, and
did I want to? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These questions and many others
like them led me to begin taking dharma lessons with Tracy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Loosely defined, Dharma is your life’s
path, how you live your life responsibly, knowing and respecting your authentic
self. Each person’s dharmic path is different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dharma lessons have provided me an opportunity to examine my
beliefs, fears, and actions/reactions, and to open my mind and heart to other
ways of seeing myself and the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The lessons encourage me to be mindful and present, to be guided by
ahimsa (nonviolence toward all sentient beings), to reduce suffering. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Each session is structured
around a question or a specific yogic concept.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lessons have ranged from exploring what is my authentic
self, to reducing the power fear has over my life (keeps me from being my
authentic self and much more), to living more fully in the present, to
examining the yamas and niyamas such as ahimsa (nonviolence), santosa
(contentment), aparigraha (non-hoarding) and how they relate to daily
situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We continue with a topic until
it seems time to move on to the next topic, and each one acts as a building
block for what comes next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you
might expect, the most difficult thing is to truly absorb and live by what I’ve
learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are moments of
great clarity when my actions are focused and positive and increase my
wellbeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And there are times
when it seems like I’m back at square one and haven’t moved forward at
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each time that happens I look
at where I came from and know I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have</i>
moved forward, and also know that there’s still more work ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tracy has been incredibly
helpful in this process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is
supportive and gentle, and also deeply and keenly probing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She blends her knowledge of yoga
philosophy with practical applications that encourage me to incorporate the
teachings into my daily life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tracy’s truths and my truths are
not always the same, and that is fine because it makes me question deeply
whatever we’re working on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometimes I realize my ‘truths’ are old truths and not who I am now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other times I hold on to my truths (at
least for right now!) and Tracy respects that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Probably the most important aspect of taking dharma lessons
with Tracy is that I trust her, and know that wherever the lessons take me, it
will be in a safe and supportive environment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It has been an intense year of
self-study and discovery, some of it joyful and liberating, some of it
difficult and painful. There have
been laughter and tears, doubts and breakthroughs, hard work and contentment. It is a journey I’m thankful I began
and am grateful to continue - and I’m eager to share if anyone would like to
know more about the experience.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-33663314361605193152014-03-17T22:23:00.001-05:002014-03-17T22:23:54.876-05:00Only Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixngOosd3ndEZXunMoH-7m9tAVsB8FIbSMLUbr1XA-y2xuf0tKgKZ-QBjBRd_UP1sHVsTWa86oqMc6PH-YGpBKd-MK_8uVebKMroZawoFR9oMts8YmfvC4m0jQxGaarm91OiSK76qn2fI/s1600/IMG_3007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixngOosd3ndEZXunMoH-7m9tAVsB8FIbSMLUbr1XA-y2xuf0tKgKZ-QBjBRd_UP1sHVsTWa86oqMc6PH-YGpBKd-MK_8uVebKMroZawoFR9oMts8YmfvC4m0jQxGaarm91OiSK76qn2fI/s1600/IMG_3007.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<i>There are four questions of value in life. What is sacred?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Of what is Spirit made? What is worth living for and what is worth dying for? </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The answer to all of them is the same. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> Only love.</i></div>
</span><div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: red; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Johnny Depp</span></i></div>
<br /></div>
Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-78709153730186820212014-01-06T12:27:00.002-06:002014-01-06T12:27:57.905-06:00New Year New Goal
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<strong>It’s that time of the year again.</strong><br />
<br />
Year’s Resolutions are being made. You’re
anticipating all sorts of good changes and improvements. You’ve got your goals
all mapped out and you’re feeling amped to watch the magic unfold.<br />
But hold on there ambitious one. If you’re gonna play your cards right,
there’s one thing you absolutely MUST understand. And that is…<br />
<strong>The difference between goal setting and goal GETTING.</strong><br />
My guess is the latter is what you’re after. I mean, sure, it’s fun to set an intention or make a bold
declaration, but when it’s all said and done, you want to enjoy the unfolding,
the adventure of the journey, and of course the results that conscious creation
and clear intentions can bring you, yes?
Good.<br />
Okay, so let’s say that you’re “pre-paving” a year down the road.<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">You’re anticipating that
you’ll be more joyful and clear minded in your relationships. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">You’re anticipating radiant
health and a stronger body. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">You’re anticipating more ease
with your finances. </li>
</ul>
<strong>This is all really really good.</strong><br />
Why? Because something magical
happens when you project into your future experience like this - you
launch a rocket of desire that the Universe actualizes around.<br />
To put it another way: YOU, as a powerful creator, here living your life,
will (over the next year) undoubtedly experience all sorts of variety and
contrast and give birth to all kinds of new preferences, hopes and dreams.<br />
And when you do (and when you allow yourself to ride that current of desire
and feel good while anticipating your success in this new endeavor) the
energy that creates worlds, that living “star-stuff” that makes up the
Universe, will indeed <em>take the shape of</em>, become, and deliver to you,
an exact match to that desire.<br />
<strong>It’s kind of a big deal.</strong><br />
So I encourage you to be incredibly DELIBERATE about this whole Resolution
business. After all, what you have here, laid out before you, is a fresh clean
slate. This is your opportunity to align with the energy of your boldest,
purest desires, to turn up the passion and unleash your creative potential like
never before.<br />
But, as I mentioned, we Conscious Creators know that there’s a major
distinction between “goal setting” and “goal getting” - and it is crucial
to recognize the difference between the two and how <em>they MUST work in
tandem if they’re going to work at all</em>. The first method is:<br />
<strong>Traditional Goal Setting</strong><br />
Think back. Did you set goals for this past year? If so, how many of them
came to fruition?<br />
This practice of sitting down to map out your goals and intentions for
the new year does offer many benefits, for in the process of setting
your goals you:<br />
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">gain clarity about what you
want, </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">focus energy in that
direction, and </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">let go of old baggage or
outdated intentions previously set into motion so that you can create
space for future outcomes. </li>
</ol>
From an energetic or vibrational perspective, however, this method has
its drawbacks.<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">For one, it’s incomplete. If
the achievement of your goal relies <strong>too heavily</strong> on
action steps (versus energetic alignment as the MAIN factor), it is
likely that you’ll expend <em>way</em> too much energy and wear yourself
out early on in the game - after all, you’ll be missing out on the
leverage that aligned thoughts would’ve otherwise awarded you and you’ll
have to “work” 10 times as hard to achieve 1/10th of the results. And
since like attracts like and what you focus on expands, this heavy,
draining energy tends to be self-reinforcing and can lead you to
abandon your goals before February even begins. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">On top of that, in
traditional goal setting we’re often encouraged to be overly specific,
especially on the HOW TO part. Unfortunately, when we narrow our focus to
such a specific strategy or outcome, we don’t leave any room for positive
surprises or for the highest good to come to us in a slightly
different package. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Most significantly, in
traditional goal setting when we make lists of our new goals, we’re
typically doing so while focused upon our current “problems” or areas of
lack. This focus actually reinforces our experience of a gap between
where we are and where we desire to be, which may push the goal even
farther away. </li>
</ul>
According to Universal Law, this happens because if we are not in
vibrational harmony with our goals, no amount of efforting, struggling
or striving will draw them to us.<br />
Therefore, traditional goal setting <em>on its own</em> won’t get you where
you want to go (at least NOT in the most joyful and efficient way). But couple
it with the second method - which we’ll cover next - and you’ve got a winning
combination.<br />
<strong>Goal Getting</strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">In a nutshell, it basically
consists of spending a fair amount of time achieving energetic alignment
with the things, people, opportunities and experiences that you would most
like to attract into your life - and you do this </span></strong><em>before</em><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> your goal setting session, </span></strong><em>during</em><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> the action-step process, and essentially anytime
you want to FEEL GOOD and increase your chances of success.</span></strong><br />
To break this “energetic alignment” thing down even further, you might think
of it as a <strong>3-step Intentional Creation process:</strong><br />
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">Ask for what you want in the
most powerful way (FOCUS ON WHY YOU WANT IT, NOT HOW YOU’RE GOING TO GET
IT) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Move into an energy state
that is a match to what you want to receive (FEEL GOOD WHILE YOU
ANTICIPATE IT) </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Maintain that high vibration
so that what you want can find its way to you. (<strong>THINK, SAY
&</strong> <strong>DO</strong> THINGS THAT WILL KEEP YOU FEELING
GOOD AND ANTICIPATING IT) </li>
</ol>
Happy New Year! Om Shannnnti!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-45485743672802135842013-05-06T11:15:00.000-05:002013-05-06T11:15:12.450-05:00Spring Rituals
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<o:p>Finally it seems we are entering into spring. This is a time of great renewal and that includes your yoga practice. Spring is a wonderful time to re-energize your practice with some time-honored techniques. Many of these techniques help to cleanse the body of the sluggishness of winter, much like spring cleaning your house. Try these simple yet effective techniques to clean your energetic house and let that fresh air of spring in.</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1) BREATHE: The
stale air within our houses and indoor spaces takes its toll on our
bodies. Now that the weather is
turning warmer get outside and do some deep breathing. If you can’t go outside sit by an open
window to practice this pranayama technique.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sit comfortable and close eyes. Rest hands on belly.
Breathe in through nose until belly is fully extended then hold that
breath in for a second or two. Slowly exhale until you feel the belly
contract…try to push out the last bit of breath. Take two normal breaths in between and then do the extended
breath again. Repeat up to 5
times. This will help to wake up
the lungs, the nervous system and will give you increased energy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2) MOVE: Get
moving with a more energized yoga practice. Spring is a time to get the cobwebs out of the body and
re-awaken the fluid, youthful you. If you take one class a week, spring is a
great time to bump this up. You
will definitely notice major advances when you practice more often. If that’s not possible, this is a
wonderful time to start a daily home practice, especially one that starts your
day. Remember that you don’t need
to do a whole hour class to benefit.
A couple of significant poses every morning help to jump start the body
and balance the mind. Good ones to
start your day are Sun Salutations (or half suns), Triangle pose, Cobra pose,
and Tree pose.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3) MEDITATE :Don’t worry…you don’t need to dedicate much
time to this either, just a few minutes (perhaps after your asanas) dedicated
to sitting quietly and perhaps envisioning the beautiful day you are lucky
enough to enter into…. It can
really change how your day rolls out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
4) PRACTICE RANDOM KINDNESS: Even when you are at your most grumpy, try being kind and
considerate to others. You will
find it changes your negative energy to positive, and in the meantime sends
wonderful vibrations into the universe.
Imagine that with every kind act or thought another flower blooms
somewhere!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 130%;">
5) DETOX WITH DIET: Fasting is one way to cleanse
the digestive system but it’s not for everyone. If you want to try it, this is an easy one as posted by Elson
Hass, author of The New Detox Diet.
“<i>For starters, try a simple
three-day liquid fast. “After three days, your energy starts to free itself,”
says Haas. Take in only liquids: juices, vegetable broths, and teas as well as
at least 8 to 10 glasses of spring or filtered water a day (2 of them when you
wake up). Herbal teas made with slippery elm bark, dandelion, milk thistle, and
licorice root will cleanse your digestive system and your liver. You can make
fresh juices from fruits and veggies and add a little spirulina for extra
flavor and amino acids. Take advantage of the natural inclination to slow down
by going for long walks, meditating, taking naps, and writing in a journal.
After your fast is done, start by eating whole grains and steamed vegetables.” </i>If you feel fasting is not for you,
try just lightening up. Dr. Deepak
Chopra, a noted Ayurvedic M.D.
recommends reducing dairy products, and eating foods that are more
pungent, bitter and astringent rather that sweet, sour or salty.</div>
<div style="line-height: 130%;">
Regardless of how you welcome Spring, enjoy the
ritual of renewal. Celebrating
rituals is an important part of our feeling connected to the earth and one
another.</div>
<div style="line-height: 130%;">
Happy Spring!</div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-8379008390626147392013-01-14T10:54:00.002-06:002013-01-14T10:54:37.935-06:00New Year Affirmation
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbN95RenLqMapS45xvuaiHT1CKR2VVec7tLi8uNDZ6PN4_OkXXTYBgh5Wcn_qn3RGbjntLPIAn1-ZzI_yotp-xjEbsYjUl-0RtNeoSJcfGwvseldXdWRYt2VGSRanTdNGpEfNKFpf4As/s1600/Maui+Pics+336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHbN95RenLqMapS45xvuaiHT1CKR2VVec7tLi8uNDZ6PN4_OkXXTYBgh5Wcn_qn3RGbjntLPIAn1-ZzI_yotp-xjEbsYjUl-0RtNeoSJcfGwvseldXdWRYt2VGSRanTdNGpEfNKFpf4As/s200/Maui+Pics+336.jpg" width="150" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 21px;">Several of you have asked for this in print. Here you go!</span></span><br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">New Year Affirmation<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">I</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"> enter the New Year with the understanding
that I am making a fresh start. I begin by discarding thoughts, attitudes, and
habits that are not compatible with an excellent life. I let go of
whatever caused past discouragement, disappointment, or disagreement. I am open
and receptive to new ideas, activities and relationships.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">E</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">ach day, I can follow a fresh plan of
fulfillment. I act on divine ideas that I receive in moments of meditation and
inspiration. These ideas flow through positive thoughts. As I use creative
thinking to build upon divine ideas, my activities become more dynamic and my
abilities are enhanced. Therefore, I enter this New Year with optimism, joy and
enthusiasm.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-89800813527753307462013-01-02T10:51:00.000-06:002013-01-02T15:09:28.351-06:00Affirmations for 2013<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2GBqRKpkJ9NC5PI7W5jztk1Y3tfiVSniFE3c6pyfeNQ0MBHRFpSY6jVA46lUbyKTMo0gNKuqmgg7B8uKbD7YLvdLCElx-MIMRI9r5cezIASm8aFFQHSM-ryMV7jy58pBHUXpq-S5rq4/s1600/DSCN5058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX2GBqRKpkJ9NC5PI7W5jztk1Y3tfiVSniFE3c6pyfeNQ0MBHRFpSY6jVA46lUbyKTMo0gNKuqmgg7B8uKbD7YLvdLCElx-MIMRI9r5cezIASm8aFFQHSM-ryMV7jy58pBHUXpq-S5rq4/s200/DSCN5058.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">In Yoga class we usually start by setting a Samkalpa...an intention for our practice. As the new year rings in it's a time to set longer intentions, goals or affirmations. Here's some tips to help your affirmations be more effective. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Happy New Year!</span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Think about things in your life you want to
improve</u>.</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">The best way to create
affirmations is to consider areas of your life that you would like to
improve. Would you like to practice more yoga ? Do you want to have a closer
relationship with your mother, brother or sister? Would you like to feel
better about your self image? Spend some time thinking about areas of
improvement and jot them down. Be clear about your goals and this will
help in making them a reality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Keep your affirmations focused and believable</u>.</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Based on
the list that you have written, choose what you want now. Be clear with
yourself. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is even more
important to keep your affirmation believable… don’t set yourself up for
failure. So, instead of saying “I want to lose 10, 20, 30lbs.,” you are
better off saying “I am on my way to a more healthy body by losing weight and
exercising regularly.” Essentially, it is important to draw a line
between your wants and your feelings. You want to lose a certain amount
of weight, but this want stems from the desire to <i>feel </i>better about
yourself. The <b>feeling</b> is the <b>focus</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Always state your affirmations in the present
tense</u>.</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Tell your mind that your desire
is actually already the reality. If you use words like “I will” or “I am
going to,” then what you are really doing is postponing the attainment of your
goal. If your affirmation is your reality, well then, you are already
accomplishing it! “I have a loving relationship with my mother” is much
more positive for your mind than to say you <i>will</i> have this type of a
relationship with mom. By saying you will, you give yourself the
opportunity to postpone that difficult first step with
her. Tell yourself you already have this positive relationship with mom,
and you are already halfway there to achieving it. Our minds are
incredible gifts that have the power to make our goals a reality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Always keep your affirmations brief and simple.</u></span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Formulate
your affirmations in your own language, speak to yourself the way you speak all
the time. Don’t use long sentences or big words because this only
counteracts the ability to remember them… and repeat them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Repeat them daily and say them out loud.</u></span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Preferably
in front of the mirror. You will be shocked at how awkward you feel when
doing this the first few times… but DO IT! It forces you to believe in
yourself! And it's worth a giggle or two ;-)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>Write them down</u></span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;"><u>.</u> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial;">And refer
to them often. It’s also a great idea to keep them in a visible place… in
your office, or taped on the bathroom mirror or your closet door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;">Remember you can never make an affirmation for
another person</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: Arial;">. </span></i></u><span style="font-family: Arial;">As much as we might want to make
positive statements about another person in the hopes of changing them to fit
our expectations, we must learn, immediately, that we can never change another
human being. We only have control to change ourselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Lastly, and perhaps most importantly,<u> <b><i>Let go of your expectations</i></b><i>.</i></u> ...of yourself and others. Life can get in the way of life…it can get in
the way of our affirmations. Trying to control everything that happens in
your lives will not bring us closer to attaining our goals or affirmations any
sooner. In fact, it might actually hinder you. If you are
constantly focused on a particular obstacle or occurrence that goes against your
affirmations, you will surely lose focus. Stay open, be free and accept
what life brings to us, even its’ challenges. This way you are able to
continue to focus on what IS positive in your life. And affirmations are
ALWAYS positive!</span><br />
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-68646074638925668642012-11-03T13:05:00.000-05:002012-11-03T13:05:41.149-05:00Holiday Hours , Aerial Updates, Last Minute Chances OH MY!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9K-xpX-M5moyc2tIC2S873v4vd3m8kOzvdbgAjBONpamEOmMRcT7F7xbmnp3O0gITc_-y_LtUsOTRKPAChjWKBsoJTzvSjKZehLRh_ixn82VwuD_B6-mfCpGjbsTXFVbbw0JeLM63TU/s1600/dsktoppicforxmas.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9K-xpX-M5moyc2tIC2S873v4vd3m8kOzvdbgAjBONpamEOmMRcT7F7xbmnp3O0gITc_-y_LtUsOTRKPAChjWKBsoJTzvSjKZehLRh_ixn82VwuD_B6-mfCpGjbsTXFVbbw0JeLM63TU/s200/dsktoppicforxmas.bmp" width="200" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As another year draws to a close it's time to look at the calendar and unfortunately cancel classes that fall on holidays. This year is a doozy with two weeks of Mondays and Tuesdays being affected. Please take advantage of the special classes offered on the wednesdays so your practice stays current. Below you will see the layout, and it will be posted on the website calendar.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, Aerial Yoga Session I, for January 2013 is FULL. Registration is now open for Session II which runs Mondays Feb. 25th- April 1st, 6-7 p.m. Email or call to find out how to sign up and reserve your spot. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And speaking of Aerial Yoga....amazingly there is <i>ONE</i> spot still left in the last session of this year. It's a short session (5 weeks) due to the holidays so the price is cheaper ($125). It runs November 19-December 17th, Mondays 7:45-8:45 p.m. Who wants to finish the year with a bang? Call or email to fill this spot.....it's just waiting for <i>YOU!</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As promised here's the schedule of cancelled and special classes for the end of the year. I hope you can all enjoy the holidays in whatever way is sacred to you....</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monday December 24th---Class Cancelled</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tuesday December 25th---Class Cancelled</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wednesday December 26th---<u><b>Special Candlelight Holiday Class</b></u>...open to all levels...6-7:30 p.m.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monday December 31st--Class Cancelled</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tuesday January 1st --Class Cancelled</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wednesday January 2nd--<b><u>Special Post Holiday Class</u></b>...open to all levels 6-7:30 p.m.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monday January 7th--New Aerial Session Begins 6-7pm</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Monday January 7th-- ZEN YOGA begins 7:30-8:30 p.m. Open to all levels, drop in rate. (See previous post for more about Zen Yoga)</span><br />
<br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-65897014579106863152012-10-23T12:40:00.001-05:002012-10-23T12:40:49.011-05:00Change Is In The Air
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMQNAEWu-2pZz2mbAacF1VSzJb_p-HksCEb-wIL1sqk6miOKyy9o-JjIy9w8NoBvgu9cFgMpjGpSXbZ0hDY1ttv_Do08w5IhBwPOfJXhcLIIscDYJqLAB6W5cPv1-KWqzt2KGy1Kvw8s/s1600/IMG_0276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMQNAEWu-2pZz2mbAacF1VSzJb_p-HksCEb-wIL1sqk6miOKyy9o-JjIy9w8NoBvgu9cFgMpjGpSXbZ0hDY1ttv_Do08w5IhBwPOfJXhcLIIscDYJqLAB6W5cPv1-KWqzt2KGy1Kvw8s/s200/IMG_0276.JPG" width="200" /></a>Change is in the air, and it’s exciting!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the seasons make their graceful move
from one to the other it’s a good reminder to experiment with changes in our
lives that might be good for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most people resist change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s just so much easier to leave things as they are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But most of us also realize that
without change there is not growth. And while we have this short time on the
planet, let’s mix it up a bit and challenge ourselves to embrace change and
open ourselves to the possibilities that it brings. </div>
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There are lots of easy ways to incorporate a little change
into your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mix up the décor
in your home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Try going to work a
different route. Change up your diet (perhaps go veggie for awhile to see how
you feel!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Change your electricity supplier to a green one to help save the earth (talk to me I'll tell you how!) </span>Perhaps you could
change your morning ritual to include a meditation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe incorporate a new healthy habit or release an old not
so healthy one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn’t have to
be a big change, even little ones help us, and in turn those around us, to grow.</div>
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There’s change at <u>Yoga with Tracy Von Kaenel</u> as
well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The popular <b>Aerial Yoga</b> class
is moving to a new time, or shall I say ‘flying’ into a new time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will now run from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. on
Mondays starting in January 2013.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because it’s such a fun and energizing practice, this earlier time will
allow us to use that wonderful energy a little longer before it’s time to end
the day. As in the past, Aerial Yoga runs in 6-week sessions so you progress
safely and confidently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why not
try something new in 2013?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Enrollment is now open.</div>
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Also, I’m excited to announce the addition of a new
class.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>ZEN YOGA</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will be held on Monday nights too,
from 7:30-8:30 p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will be a
regular open level, ongoing class, so drop-ins are welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s ZEN YOGA you ask? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Zen Yoga combines the deep
relaxation of classic Restorative Yoga and the deep stretching of Yin Yoga into
a beautiful practice that will soothe the body and soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Deeply supported poses are held for a
longer time allowing for full release of the tensions stored in the physical
body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The atmosphere of the class
is soft and soothing allowing the mind to let go of the busy thoughts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A perfect practice for anyone wanting
to experience the sense of letting go and opening up into one’s true self.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it’s the perfect practice to lull
you into a good nights sleep as you let go of the daily stresses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No prior yoga experience necessary. ZEN
YOGA will also start in January 2013.</div>
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I encourage you to welcome the changing of the seasons, the
opportunity to make positive changes in your life and to look forward to the
growth from trying something new!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Om shanti!</div>
<!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-3563441023926608932012-05-08T09:13:00.001-05:002012-05-08T09:13:16.351-05:00Happy Spring<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFjog5v2AVYOztTk1qtIjKgkIdAj24lR2lr-EDDozAStgjRP5yDBaXzxfNuu12JsEfByAq0ZMKmtmqKGmecBQs21mwp6bH-aufC0H7RdT4s_SqGA_aOzu7fg2DOBQSDYyU1VEIfzU24k/s1600/4M0E5327web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFjog5v2AVYOztTk1qtIjKgkIdAj24lR2lr-EDDozAStgjRP5yDBaXzxfNuu12JsEfByAq0ZMKmtmqKGmecBQs21mwp6bH-aufC0H7RdT4s_SqGA_aOzu7fg2DOBQSDYyU1VEIfzU24k/s200/4M0E5327web.jpg" width="141" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Ranya and Christa<br /> Beautiful Eagles</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's been awhile since I've posted anything and I thought I'd just bring everyone up to date a bit.<br />
<br />
<u>First</u>..Yay! Spring is definitely here and doesn't it feel great. This is a wonderful time to take stock of all the unwanted things in your life and set them free. This could mean spring cleaning, or spirit cleaning. It's all good. Give yourself permission to let something go and feel the immediate lightness this brings.<br />
<br />
<u>Second</u>..Don't forget (Aerial Yogis) that there's no class on Memorial Day May 28th. Everyone enjoy your time in the sun and honor those who have made it possible for us to do so.<br />
<br />
<u>Thirdly</u>..And speaking of Aerial Yoga...the new session is open for enrollment. It runs July 9th-August 13th. I've had quite a bit of interest in this session so if you are too, reserve your spot now! Email me and I'll let you know how.<br />
<br />
<u>Finally</u>..As summer approaches I've had lots of queries about whether I'll be doing specialty classes. The answer is yes, but they'll not be listed ahead of time. I feel like it was counter productive to list all the specialty classes ahead of time because some people made up their minds that they would not like a class so they skipped it. This way, more people will be able to experience something new without pre-judgement, and who knows.....maybe REALLY enjoy the experience. Remember that Yoga is about expanding our bodies and minds and spirits. The minute we make the choice to block a new experience because of pre conceived notions we are stunting our own growth and inhibiting our journey on our dharmic path. So... let's enter into summer ready to embrace ALL the interesting things our practice may bring us!! I'm so looking forward to a wonderful summer with you all..<br />
<br />
Namaste,<br />
Tracy<br />
<br />
<br />Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-74290344525394048432012-03-28T09:03:00.001-05:002012-03-28T09:04:36.181-05:00The Article That Will Never Die...<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman""><a href="http://www.theawl.com/2012/01/six-reasons-to-ignore-the-new-york-times-yoga-article"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0B1E52; text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Six Reasons To Ignore The 'New York Times' Yoga Article</span></b></a></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#414040">By <a href="http://www.theawl.com/user/13691/sarahmiller"><span style="color:#0B1E52; text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Sarah Miller</span></a> <a href="http://www.theawl.com/2012/01/six-reasons-to-ignore-the-new-york-times-yoga-article"><span style="color:#414040;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">| January 11, 2012</span></a></span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:13.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">That New York Times Magazine's article on <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/08/magazine/how-yoga-can-wreck-your-body.html?_r=1"><span style="color:#0B1E52;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">the dangers of yoga</span></a> has made a lot of people mad. It didn’t really make me mad—I do too much yoga to get mad, though I do still sniff disdainfully—but I did want to address why many of the arguments in it are totally lame.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">1. The Times' health coverage often gives way to local news-flavored hysteria.</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; color:#0F0F0F"> You can’t expect the Sort of People Who Tend to Read The Times to freak out about Amber Alerts and Child Molesters. The readership simply isn’t concerned with anything that has no direct effect on them, unless that thing is cool (design), epic in scale (Nicholas Kristof) or risible (Tom Friedman). About the only thing that will get upper-middle-class coast dwellers into a frenzy is the idea—the word 'fact' is so black and white, n’est-ce pas?—that Some Day They Are Going To Fucking Die. Like to exercise a lot? That might MAKE YOU DIE. Do you just like to walk leisurely? Is that what you enjoy? Too bad for you, because if you don’t get your heart rate to 96 percent capacity, fourteen minutes a day, eight times in a 15-day cycle, YOU ARE GOING TO DIE. Guess what else? If you don’t have hot sex enough with someone who also loves you and pays your bills and who has the same values as you (good luck with that one!), your brain will stop secreting a certain hormone and you WILL DIE. If you do not make this beet green pasta dish like Mark Bittman made and get this special trace mineral found in beet greens that’s the only thing that feeds your liver oxygen, YOU ARE ALSO GOING TO DIE. This yoga article—actually, an excerpt from a book by Times reporter William J. Broad—is in this tradition. It finds subjects with genuine, perfectly reasonable things to say and a few suspect anecdotes and by the time a little Science (said in Thomas Dolby voice) is thrown in (some of this science is from 1972!) everyone has run away screaming at the top of their lungs: "Yoga, noooo! I’d be better off smoking crack and turning tricks outside <a href="http://www.benitos.com/"><span style="color:#0B1E52;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Benito’s</span></a>."</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">2. Yes, you can get injured doing yoga; you can also get injured walking across the street.</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; color:#0F0F0F"> People tell you all kinds of crazy shit about how they hurt themselves. "I was taking out the trash," "I was raking leaves," "I was vacuuming with a vacuum cleaner I don’t normally use.” The cures are often even more ridiculous than the causes. “I got a new pillow filled with millet." "I got a dog leash with a wider strap," "I did a watermelon basil enema—and it’s gone. No, not my entire asshole, dummy, my hip pain!" Who in this world has not been flat on their back and suddenly gotten a check for 5k or a promising phone call from someone hot and leapt up, miraculously cured, ready for shopping and hand jobs? Which is not to say that no one ever gets hurt in yoga. Of course they do. I have pulled a groin muscle, a shoulder muscle, a pectoral muscle. (I once got a nasty sore throat yelling at Jivamukti’s assistant manager when she let someone else take my vintage Pucci tights out of the lost and found.) But seriously. What is life but a series of mundane moments, punctuated by hazards? Someone once told me he ruptured a cervical disc reaching out to pick a piece of lint off a friend. The Times headline for this would have been “When Sweaters Are Not Just Warm.” And yes, this person was gay. I’m certain the gesture could have been a bit less operatic.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family: "Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">3. Let's let this one speak for itself.</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F"> “In one case, a male college student, after more than a year of doing yoga, decided to intensify his practice. He would sit upright on his heels in a kneeling position known as vajrasana for hours a day, chanting for world peace. Soon he was experiencing difficulty walking, running and climbing stairs.” Oh my god. That is so weird! I can’t believe someone would sit for hours a day, days on end, in one position and get hurt. That reminds me of the time I sat around in my house eating Twinkies for hours and hours, chanting for world peace. Soon I was experiencing being really fat.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">4. Did yoga really cause that stroke/aneurysm?</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F"> One example in the article comes from 1972. A woman went into wheel pose, in which she rested on her head, and then had a stroke. Another guy did headstand every day and had a stroke. Well, a lot of people suffer heart attacks having sex or running, but isn’t this because their hearts are already fucked and they have sex or go running and their heart’s like, Okay, here we are, it’s go time? Isn’t it very likely that the moment that these people were doing these things was the moment that they had a stroke, and if not, well, why aren’t classes just full of people having strokes? I’d also like to add that my aunt died of a stroke too, and no one wrote an article about how eating Stouffer’s creamed chip beef and being married to a drunk asshole with orange hair causes strokes. Sometimes people just have strokes. My sound medical opinion on this is, “Better you than me.” And you know, if these people did get strokes from yoga, they were putting extreme amounts of weight on their head. There is an easy way to avoid this. Do kundalini yoga, which is headstand-free. Or merely do not do headstand. You will miss about .001 percent of what goes on in the average yoga class.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">5. This article is actually more about how no one should go to a bad yoga teacher, but, you know, who would want to read an article about that?</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F"> This article focuses on Glenn Black, a yoga teacher whose own injuries forced him to evaluate both the teaching and practice of yoga. He mentions “teachers jumping on people, pushing and pulling and saying, 'You should be able to do this by now.'” Well. I don’t want to go to class with any of these people either, but the existence of bad yoga teachers comes neither as a surprise to me nor some sort of proof that the practice itself is flawed. I have never been shocked to come across bad teachers, bad policemen, bad psychologists (are there any good ones? Please let me know), bad dry cleaners or bad restaurants. I’d rather go to a bad yoga class than a bad restaurant. At least you can take a nap. There’s a way to avoid doing stuff you don’t want to do in class, and it’s called 'having boundaries.' If your yoga teacher looks like they might jump on you—and whimsical hair style, body odor and overuse of the word "magic" would all be danger signs—approach them before class and ask which side of the room is for people who dislike being jumped on.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">6. What’s wrong with yoga is not yoga.</span></b><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F"> According to Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the yoga classic and all-around great read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0876120796/?tag=theaw08-20"><span style="color:#0B1E52;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Autobiography of a Yogi</span></a>, Kriya Yoga was well-known in ancient India, but was eventually lost, due to "priestly secrecy and man’s indifference." If we lose yoga it will also be a one-two punch, from different forces. One will be because we let the idea that we don’t really know our limitations—this is a core idea of yoga—translate into fantasies about how we can do a backbend even though we’re fifty and kind of fat, because hey, to believe it is to be it, etc. Combine this misuse of yogic philosophy with our capacity for senseless competitiveness and fear of being old, or ugly, or anything but the best, and yes, you’ve got a good recipe for injury. But if you think of yoga as a great way to breathe more, well, you’re not going to get hurt.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">I'm sure Glenn Black is a great teacher and a great guy. And hey, I’m not about to trash some guy who just had his vertebrae fused. But I do marvel at his account of having put himself through 18 years of painful backbends. How did he do yoga for so long and think that doing a freaking backbend was really so important? If I lost my legs and arms and was being dragged around on a skateboard, I would still do yoga. To quote the Bhagavad Gita (and yes, I got this from Wikipedia), yoga happens when we are "[o]ffering inhaling breath into the outgoing breath, and offering the outgoing breath into the inhaling breath." Whether you hate the word Universe or love it (I have mixed feelings) I assure you it does not give rewards for enduring physical pain. It does, however, seem to give some rewards for learning to recognize yourself as a mere speck in its enormous scope and yet somehow representative of its totality while also seeing the same in others. Which is why it would kind of make me sad if people read this Times article and decided that the elliptical was a better way to unwind after work. Not that I have anything against ellipticals—though I have a sneaking suspicion the Universe may actually frown upon them.</span><span style="font-size:13.0pt; font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:14.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS"; mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS";color:#0F0F0F">You don’t have to stand on your head to see what’s left of you when everything else is gone, and it's something you should really take time to find out. Just in case The Times is onto something with this whole death thing. </span><span style="font-size: 13.0pt;font-family:"Comic Sans MS";mso-bidi-font-family:"Comic Sans MS""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-76222698577554917062011-12-12T09:52:00.002-06:002011-12-12T10:03:28.370-06:00Copyrighting Yoga<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial;font-size:130%;"><b>I have always thought that Yoga should be available to everyone, and that the privatizing of a particular style or technique was like privatizing the air we breathe. It just doesn't make sense. Seems that the U.S. Justice system agrees. Yoga on everyone!</b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;">Yoga Pose Copyright Bid Too Much of a Stretch, U.S. Says in Bikram Battle</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#5C5C5C">By Ellen Rosen - Dec 10, 2011 12:39 AM CT </span><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Times;mso-bidi-font-family: Times;color:#5C5C5C">Sat Dec 10 06:39:37 GMT 2011</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: 15px; "> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Yoga poses such as head-to-knee stretches and the sequences of the moves are “exercises” rather than “choreography” and can’t be copyrighted in the U.S., regulators said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The <span style="text-decoration: none; ">U.S. Copyright Office</span> previously permitted yoga poses and their sequences to be registered, even if those exercises were in the public domain, Laura Lee Fischer, acting chief of the office’s Performing Arts Division, said in response to an inquiry by an attorney involved in lawsuits the founder of Bikram Yoga filed against three yoga studios.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The office reviewed the legislative history of the copyright law and decided that exercises, including yoga, “do not constitute the subject matter that Congress intended to protect as choreography,” Fischer said in an e-mail. “We will not register such exercises (including yoga movements), whether described as exercises or as selection and ordering of movements.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The e-mail is contained in a response filed yesterday to <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Bikram’s Yoga College of India</span>’s complaint against <span style="text-decoration: none; ">New York-</span> based <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Yoga to the People</span>. Washington lawyer Elliott Alderman, assisting defense attorney Jordan Susman and Harvard Law School professor William Fisher, sought the determination from the Copyright Office.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span style="text-decoration: none; ">Evolation Yoga</span>, with studios in cities including Buffalo and <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Brooklyn</span>, <span style="text-decoration: none; ">New York</span>, and <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Yen Yoga</span>, in Traverse City, <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Michigan</span>, also were sued. All three lawsuits were filed in federal court in Los Angeles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Validity Presumption<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Robert Gilchrest, a lawyer at <span style="text-decoration: none; ">Silverman Sclar Shin & Byrne PLLC</span> in Los Angeles who represents Bikram Yoga and its founder, Bikram Choudhury, said the e-mail shouldn’t affect his case because Choudhury already had registered a copyright for a book containing his yoga sequence.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">“There is a presumption that when a copyright is issued, it is valid,” Gilchrest said. He said the Copyright Office has issued “hundreds of copyrights for exercise videos, but now they’re saying they’re looking at it again and they’ve changed their mind? It is meaningless to this litigation.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The Copyright Office decision won’t put an end to the litigation because the suits also claim trademark infringement and violation of the teacher-certification agreements.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Breathing Exercises<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Choudhury and his affiliated Bikram Yoga studios teach a strictly regimented type of yoga that lasts for 90 minutes and includes 26 poses, two breathing exercises and a scripted dialogue in a room that is heated to 105 degrees. Yoga to the People founder Greg Gumucio was a former student of Choudhury, as were some of the instructors at Evolation and Yen Yoga.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Choudhury said in his complaint that each studio violated his copyrights and trademarks as well as limitations on how and where his students can teach his method.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Susman and Fisher, who represent Yoga to the People and Gumucio, said yoga sequences and poses can’t be copyrighted. The defendants said the hot yoga they offer differs from Bikram yoga. Each studio offers other types of yoga as well.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Gumucio created a website, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span style="text-decoration: none; ">www.yogatruth.org</span>,</span> and has almost 8,000 signatures of people who agree yoga shouldn’t “be privatized.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">The case is Bikram’s Yoga College of <span style="text-decoration: none; ">India</span> L.P. v. Yoga to the People, Inc., 11-cv-07998, U.S. District Court, Central District of <span style="text-decoration: none; ">California</span> (<span style="text-decoration: none; ">Los Angeles</span>). The other cases filed are Bikram’s Yoga College of India L.P. v. Raiz, 11-cv-7377, U.S. District Court, Central District of California (Los Angeles) and Bikram’s Yoga College of India L.P. v. Evolation Yoga LLC., 11- cv-05506, U.S. District Court, Central District of California</span></span><!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-49493867929736678312011-11-14T12:07:00.003-06:002011-11-14T12:29:29.351-06:00Holiday Class Schedule and SpecialsIt's that time of year again. Snowy weather, family and friends gathering, lots of extra activities, lots of potential for stress. But with a solid yoga practice foundation to help you through it all, it can be a lovely time for reflection and joy. Here's the list of classes at the Tai Chi Center from Thanksgiving through New Years. Hope to see you often. Wishing you a season of peace. <div><br /></div><div>Weds. Nov. 23rd...Pre-Thanksgiving "Raise your Metabolism Yoga", 6:00pm</div><div>Monday Nov. 28th...Aerial Yoga (final class of session), 7:40pm</div><div>Tuesday Nov. 29th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Wednesday Nov.30...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Monday Dec. 5th...Candlelight Yin Yoga, 7:45pm</div><div>Tuesday Dec. 6th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Wednesday Dec. 7th...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Monday Dec. 12th...Candlelight Yin Yoga with Guided Meditation, 7:45pm</div><div>Tuesday Dec. 13th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Wednesday Dec. 14th ...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Monday Dec. 19th...Candlelight Yin Yoga with Gong Bath, 7:45pm</div><div>Tuesday Dec. 20th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Wednesday December 21st...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm</div><div>Monday December 26th....NO CLASS</div><div>Tuesday December 27th...Beginning Yoga, 6:00pm (bring a friend for $8!)</div><div>Weds. December 28th...Intermediate Yoga, 6:00pm (bring a friend for $8!)</div><div>Monday January 2nd...NO CLASS</div>Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-41182311403787990932011-09-28T22:41:00.003-05:002011-09-28T23:06:01.905-05:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCxn7mLWdb4_0kxwGPgmJDP7qYGu9Nu5rmGe2Jt7zyxJcvMn4ZgOWhq9cHDFsd7EE41QOMSZ8HCE8-Pq8pLGFTKN15UHRpR8OUDSlwPSpMZjcg68_OENpmvjS0DHUxG3qa-mMZLpfD8E/s1600/DSCN4797.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;"><b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="line-height: 16px; white-space: pre; "> </span><br /></b></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; line-height: 16px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><img src="http://ts3.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=1176984294978&id=3cd7b4e25f640ce8c95bb1bb57625e85" width="226" alt="" height="169" title="Vegetables" id="yui_3_3_0_12_1317268824770797" style="width: 226px; height: 169px; margin-left: -30px; " /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; line-height: 16px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; line-height: 16px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;">October 1st is World Vegetarian Day</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 16px; font-family:arial;"><p></p><p></p><p style="font-size: 12px; ">I encourage everyone to be veggie for one day and then perhaps challenge yourself to be more veggie aware for the entire month. As yogis, many of us practice vegetarianism because of the first Yama (Ethical Codes) which is Ahimsa. Ahimsa dictates non-violence in every form, (thoughts, words, actions) towards all sentient beings. But there is much controversy on the "need" for meat. Here is an article from Yoga Journal that discusses this very thought.</p><p style="font-size: 12px; "><a href="http://email.yogajournal.com/t?r=11&c=9094&l=93&ctl=5D5BE:29562B9C1DB57AD15F31829BF4C62652&" style="color: rgb(24, 120, 77); text-decoration: none; font-size: 19px; font-weight: bold; font-family: arial; line-height: 26px; ">The Great Meat Debate</a></p><p style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); ">The debate over whether or not vegetarianism is an intrinsic part of the yogic lifestyle is not new. For centuries in India the movement towards peaceful coexistence with animals, influenced by the belief in reincarnation, conflicted with the tradition of animal sacrifice set forth in the Vedas. This debate perhaps even contributed to the branching out of Vedic thought into the peaceful philosophies of Buddhism and Jainism. In current times the complicated questions remain. This Friday, October 1, is World Vegetarian Day and the beginning of Vegetarian Awareness Month. Make a commitment this month to learn more about the health benefits, animal welfare issues, and resource conservation of a vegetarian diet, so that you too can contribute to the ancient debate!</p><p style="font-size: 12px; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); "> Examine the health benefits of a plant-based diet and ensure that you are getting the necessary nutrients if you are a vegetarian. Do some research and find out why a vegetarian diet is a yogic one. Find out what experts have to say. Finally, omnivores and vegetarians alike can make a difference in the way their food gets to the table. Be a conscientious eater whatever your personal decision is. We can all benefit from being smart, mindful, compassionate consumers.</p></span></div>Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-83482382266447260872011-06-01T16:39:00.009-05:002012-01-07T08:17:10.317-06:00Aerial Yoga Classes Begin<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4L0WTVsQuzX6Oom4OomfCKCjyFL9qYzT3PIRjWtrVOrCDJBaFyxWZOZLuVlWQbbCo2JQ_6thULIFiIVN8wuAPrWGmRTxjeWu58z0bmfavqzIwsv8N28JDQ6n7j5O5MyPObOsIFGE-VCE/s1600/TC3AY053low_res.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4L0WTVsQuzX6Oom4OomfCKCjyFL9qYzT3PIRjWtrVOrCDJBaFyxWZOZLuVlWQbbCo2JQ_6thULIFiIVN8wuAPrWGmRTxjeWu58z0bmfavqzIwsv8N28JDQ6n7j5O5MyPObOsIFGE-VCE/s200/TC3AY053low_res.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613373013215736162" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjiO1SvG_mSCzggBU6Nt3m6wi7Ftjr3rsxVje2tqGmw03U7sUwFQjh5MMT8CH3TDJnLMfEukgE8UCHtxuEZTES1PehbMggCaoJqa1WTEbNcsKpSOstBrWawD6XUmIfJO5HsqJWWzEvrk/s1600/TC3AY051low_res.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br />Aerial Yoga is completely different from any yoga you have ever tried. It does not replace a regular yoga practice, but rather compliments it. Inversions become gravity free, allowing the neck, shoulders, arms to relax while giving the full benefit of inverting.<div><br /></div><div> The upper body muscles develop strength with Aerial Yoga, which is an area most of us are challenged by. And stretching takes on a new feeling when suspended.</div><div><br /></div><div>The element of fun is evident from the first time you get in the sling and swing....just try to resist the temptation to sat "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">weeeeee</span>". And the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Savasana</span> is like nothing you can even imagine....some have described it as pure bliss.</div><div><br /></div><div> I would love for everyone to try it, because I think you will love it! Especially if you enjoy being upside-down!</div><div><br /></div><div> The class will be offered in 6 week sessions for 5 students at a time. This will give you a full immersion feeling with a great amount of personal attention from me! Here's the schedule for the sessions. Classes meet at 7:40pm Monday nights at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tai</span> Chi Center of Chicago, 4043 N <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Ravenswood</span>, Suite 228. The cost is $150 for a six week session. Secure your spot now with a check!</div><div>All sessions for Aerial Yoga in 2011 are full. The 2012 session is as follows:</div><div><div> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;tab-stops:76.5pt;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Aerial Yoga 6-week sessions 2012</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session I- January 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">th</span>-February 13<sup><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span></sup> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#ff0000;">(FULL)</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session II-February 27<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span>-April 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">nd</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#ff0000;">(FULL)</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session III-April 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span>-May 14<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">th</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#ff0000;">(FULL)</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session IV-May 21st-July 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">nd</span> (No class May 28/Memorial Day)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session V-July 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">th</span>-August 13<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">th</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session VI-August 20-October 1st (No class September 3/Labor Day)<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session VII-October 8<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">th</span>-November 12<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">th</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';font-size:85%;">Session VIII-November 19-December 17<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">th</span> (5-week session/$125)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Comic Sans MS';font-size:7;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment--></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><br /></span></div><div>Come fly with me to a place of peace.....</div>Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4231502047471961501.post-38405948866687006832011-04-21T08:49:00.002-05:002011-04-21T08:58:22.191-05:00Happy Earth Day 2011<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">Earth Day is Friday April 22!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">How will you show your support to save the Earth?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">Think simple. If each of us does one small thing to help the environment this Earth Day, the world will be a much better place. </span><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family: Arial">Here are a few small ways that you can help make the world a better place to live in—and sustain it for future generations:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination: none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">Give up bottled water</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A">This is likely no news flash for you, but let's review: </span><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">According to the Sierra Club, 1.5 million barrels of oil are used to make plastic water bottles every year in the United States. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt; font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Bottled water has a huge carbon footprint--it's bottled at one location in small plastic bottles that were made at another location and shipped long distances. Many plastic water bottles are recycled, but most are not, making the footprint even bigger. Get yourself a reusable water bottle. Also, a lot of restaurants have made the switch from offering fancy bottled water, usually imported from an exotic source, to using in-house filtration systems that make tap water a good choice. Ask about it next time you dine out</span><span style="font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination: none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "><b><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">Practice your yoga in organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo clothing</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">. The production of non-organic cotton is responsible for 25 percent of the United States' insecticide usage. Think of this for all your clothing, bedding, towels etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And as long as you are shopping, think of buying something that doesn’t take new production…try consignment stores, thrift stores etc.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination: none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination: none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">Exchange your PVC mat for an eco-mat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold">And make sure you<b> </b>re- use your old mat. Cut it up for shelf lining (especially good for shoes), extra padding on a hard chair, pads under the feet of furniture to save the floor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Glue pieces to the back of wall art to keep marks off your wall. Cut small it makes great re-usable packaging for fragile items.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Cut pretty shapes out of it and use it for a bath mat. Be creative…. the possibilities are endless. Check out Bean Products for some great eco-friendly, locally made stuff. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; ">www.beanproducts.com</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; line-height: normal; "> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:12.0pt;line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination: none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">Be Green and Clean</span></b><span style="font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Opt for an eco-friendly cleaning solution made of lemon juice, vinegar, and essential oils—instead of cleaners with harsh chemicals. This can make a difference in the environment and in your health. Use washable plates and glasses for events rather than disposable ones; and use hand towels, which can be washed and reused, rather than paper towels or napkins.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:-13.5pt"><span style="font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><b>Pay Attention to Packaging.</b> </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">When out shopping, try to go to stores or co-ops that keep packaging to a minimum. For example, buy loose tomatoes rather than boxed or plastic-wrapped tomatoes. Also, avoid items, like cereals and crackers, that include a non-recyclable bag inside of a box, and you'll also avoid more heavily processed food. Take reusable bags to the grocery store, including </span><a href="http://www.chicobag.com/c-29-produce-stand.aspx"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">reusable produce bags</span></b></a><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">,</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A"> which can save a countless amount of plastic! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Sign up for Green Power </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; color: rgb(26, 26, 26); ">Here is probably the quickest and most effective thing you can do to reduce your carbon emissions: Enroll in a green power program with your utility company. While the exact electricity mix varies from state to state, based on the average mix in the United States, by choosing green power from your utility you can reduce you carbon emission by some 7 tons per year. And at the same time send a message to your utility that it better start investing in some more wind farms, because more and more people are committed to greening the national power supply. Yes, a few minutes and one phone call can reduce your personal carbon emissions seven times as much as recycling.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Skip the flight.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; color: rgb(26, 26, 26); ">Simply skipping one mid-range flight (say from New York City to St. Louis, Missouri) reduces your emissions as much as one full year of recycling, by about 1970 pounds per flight on that route. If you travel frequently for work, investigate other options such as Amtrak or even video conferencing, and if you have family that live halfway across the country, try to combine smaller trips into one longer one or simply go less frequently.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Unplug it! </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; color: rgb(26, 26, 26); ">Unplug appliances that you don't use frequently. Most electronics have a standby mode that siphons energy even when not in use. Cell phone chargers, laptops, televisions, stereos--there's a whole list of items that should be unplugged when not in use. Try using a power strip for groups of electronic items. One flick of the switch and it's all off.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Buy organic and local. </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; color: rgb(26, 26, 26); ">Local food cuts down on miles and miles of traveling to get to your plate. And it's fresher than what's transported across the globe to your mega mart. Supermarket produce is often picked a week before it's ripe, and has to do its final ripening in transport. This also goes for that cup of joe--coffee beans have to travel long distances and go through a complicated production process before they even make it to your local coffee shop. Also, try eating at restaurants that serve locally produced or seasonal foods.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Go Vegetarian (or Vegan) </span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Cutting meat out of your diet has a large impact on your lifestyle carbon emissions. And can lower your food bill by 20 percent to boot! The emissions and resources needed to raise animals for food are so much higher than for raising vegetables that by eating a lacto-ovo vegetarian diet you can save about </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">one ton</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A"> of carbon emissions each year compared to your carnivorous friends. Cut out eggs and cheese and save </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">two tons</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A"> per year. And by doing this you’ll also be practicing Ahimsa (non-violence), a basic tenet of Yoga…</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Keep your car.</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A"> What? How can keeping your car reduce carbon? Well, first try more eco-friendly modes of transport when possible, like buses, trains, a bicycle, telecommuting, or walking.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"> But, </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A">with gas prices seemingly always on the rise, it's tempting to buy a hybrid or electric vehicle. However, if your older-model car is in good condition, you're better off keeping it in good running condition. Even hybrids create a big footprint when they're built, so consider driving that old clunker for a little while longer.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt; font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:16.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align: none;text-autospace:none"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;font-family: Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A">Use cold water</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#1A1A1A">. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; line-height: normal; color: rgb(26, 26, 26); ">No, not in the shower... but maybe in the washer. Try using cold water to launder things that don't need to be cleaned in hot or warm water. It takes a lot of energy to heat up water -- multiply that by the number of loads, and that's a big footprint. Most major detergent makers sell detergents designed to have the same cleaning power as with regular soap. Try washing mixed loads in cold water, too.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#1A1A1A"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight:normal">Plant a tree in the rainforest</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And finally this, from the National Recourses Defense Council. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">I’m inviting you to join thousands of others in </span><a href="http://www.nrdconline.org/site/R?i=1P1VwaHhs-wDqryCP1sx3A.."><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:blue">planting a tree in a rainforest</span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">. It’s inexpensive ($10). It’s fast (a couple of mouse clicks). And it makes a big difference to our planet. (Each new tree can absorb up to a ton of carbon pollution in its lifetime.) Thanks to NRDC’s GreenGifts program, you can even </span><a href="http://www.nrdconline.org/site/R?i=TuPPYJOPqkBCfOm3pfLBSQ.."><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:blue">plant the tree in someone’s name</span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"> -- and we’ll send them an e-card letting them know about your Earth Day action. (You can write your own message on the card.) With GreenGifts, there are no more excuses for letting Earth Day pass without doing something small but important for Mother Earth. </span><a href="http://www.nrdconline.org/site/R?i=gueQE1YTaAfChjpIQx-2AQ.."><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:blue">Plant a tree today</span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt; font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"> - and breathe easier on Earth Day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>NRDC - Frances Beinecke<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><a href="mailto:biogemsdefenders@savebiogems.org">biogemsdefenders@savebiogems.org</a><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">So whatever you do know that you are doing good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Share your knowledge, your energy and your spirit to help save this beautiful earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There has never been a more important time than the present moment.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">Peace, and Happy Earth Day!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626"><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">Namaste,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">Tracy<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.yogachicago.us"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial">www.yogachicago.us</span></a><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-family:Arial; color:#262626"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-size:14.0pt;font-family:Arial; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;color:#262626">773-720-YOGA<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Yoga Experience with Tracy Von Kaenelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00193754795500495678noreply@blogger.com