Toni Kuhn

As Halloween approaches I find myself thinking about things that I am afraid of. One of the things that sticks out the most is that when I am presented with something new, I find myself clamming up and automatically turning away from it. Whether it is a new yoga pose, a new pranyama, a new skill, or even new people; I tend to shy away from it. In the past two weeks I have been having inner monologues of encouragement to face these these new things and take them for a test drive. And you know what? I actually like them! This all brings me back to Dr Suess’s classic book “Green Eggs and Ham“! I have learned that a little fear can be inspiring and exhilarating. Especially when I give myself the chance to explore new things without worrying about the outcome.

My new mantra: “I will try this new thing and not be afraid”.

What are you afraid of?

Each day, take a moment to  pause and breathe. Find just a few moments to tune into your breath and to yourself. See the world around you and feel gratitude for it. Spend just 5 minutes a day in a quiet spot and breathe.

In taking this time to pause and reflect, you will feel more calm and peaceful.

“Your body is your connection to the cosmic computer, which is organizing an infinity of events simultaneously. By listening to your body and responding to it with awareness, you tap into the field of infinite possibility, where the natural experience is peace, harmony, and joy.”  -Deepak Chopra

Sometimes life seems to get busier and busier. At this time of the year, the days actually get shorter as the sun sets earlier. This can make you feel like there is not enough hours in the day to get everything done. Well, you know what? It is okay to leave things for another day. The laundry can wait, the floors can wait to be washed, the dry cleaners are open tomorrow, and the car can be washed another day .  Take a moment to yourself and do something fun! For me, I love spending time with my family watching our favorite TV shows or going out to eat. Tonight we will spending time in Simi Vally at  Brian’s  band competition. We will be spending a fun evening with other parents watching our talented kids. Everything else can wait. It will get done, soon…..     : )

This pose I am doing is handstand with tree legs. It is my favorite pose. It makes me feel happy and alive! How about you- what makes you happy?

From Yoga Journal. com

Injuries caused by a hatha yoga practice are usually minor and limited to simple ligament sprains and muscle strains, with the occasional slip, fall, or forced adjustment. The most common injuries are caused by repetitive isometric strain or overstretching and occur at the wrists, shoulders, neck, along the spine, and at the sacroiliac joint, hamstrings, and knees. If not addressed, these minor setbacks can have a long-term impact on the balance of alignment within the practice. Some yogis even bring ailments to the mat, which can also have lifelong effects upon range of motion, breathing, supply of energy, and quality of meditation.

When you see injury in any activity—including yoga—it’s often a question of someone trying to do too much too fast. That’s why it’s essential to learn proper alignment and respect your body’s limitations. Study with an experienced teacher, learn slowly, and move mindfully to lesson your chances of an unnecessary yoga injury.

If you are interested in private yoga lessons with me, contact me on the “private lessons tab”.

Today is my mother’s birthday. I find myself reflecting back on her life. Could I have been a better daughter? Was she happy? Did I tell her I loved her enough? My mother passed away 9 years ago. She had a severe case of Rheumatoid Arthritis. I am so grateful that I was able to take of her and learn so much from her doctor’s and physical therapists. As I struggle with my own arthritic issues, I realize that sharing in her experience, I am able to pass my knowledge on to my students. I am continually learning new ways to ease pain and gain more functionality. I am now learning from my own doctor’s and physical therapists and I combine this knowledge with my yoga training.  I would like to believe that I helped my mom in every way possible, and that she knew how much I loved her. Today, she guides me to help my students.  I truly believe that our past experiences shape who we are today .

Thank you mom for giving me a lifetime of knowledge and compassion.

Happy Birthday mom, I love you!