A Call Out To HRM Yoga Instructors: Sharing Your Practice with Community

My Haligonian Yoga Peeps: Yoga in the Park is upon us!!

This weekend it has finally felt like Spring has a glimmer of hope of arriving in Halifax. (Even though this coming week it's giving a possibility of snow...) With this glimmer comes the realization that as soon as it's above 15 degrees (C) on a Saturday we will be practicing yoga near the ocean once again!

This summer will mark our fourth summer practicing yoga in Point Pleasant Park. The fourth summer where anyone who is interested may pop in and practice yoga amidst the sun, atlantic ocean and wind with absolutely no charge, without even the slightest suggestion, implication or pressure to pay (ie 100% free, no donation necessary).

I am so proud to say that throughout discussions, space change and a few dramas, we have kept YITP to equate the opportunity for all to practice surrounded by nature in a public place free of charge. 

Practicing yoga outside makes me happy, and the purpose of YITP is to simply share that moment with others... practicing yoga while listening to the waves of the ocean as a community.

(YITP 2010 at Point Pleasant Park)

This summer, I would like to send out a call for any Yoga Instructor who would love to share this practice and their sequence with us. 

What sharing your practice and love with the YITP community would look like:

• Choosing a Saturday morning this summer that works for you and committing to this morning.
• Either: 
• Leading the practice simultaneously while you practice (talking through your practice)
• Or, "teaching" a class in the formal sense- it is completely your discretion.
• Practicing with other yogis in a casual, safe and informal atmosphere.
• Sharing the joy of your yoga practice with others in the beautiful setting of ocean, wind and forest. 

If you are a yoga instructor and you are interested please email me at earthyogini (at) gmail (dot) com with any questions, concerns or even dates you'd like to share your practice.

If you are a HRM yogi (or instructor) who would love to simply attend and enjoy your practice with Halifax YITP this summer the BEST way to keep up with times and dates would be joining our facebook group: "Halifax Yoga in the Park". 

Happy Spring!!

How To Practice Yoga Outside: How the Cool Kids Do It

Summer is in full swing and let me tell you, the BEST part of being an EcoYogi is practicing yoga outside. It's an important part of truly living the glamourous crunchy EcoYogi lifestyle. No really, you haven't lived until you've surya'd under the sun next to the ocean, practicing one armed downdog so you can flick ants off your mat (perhaps accidentally squishing them... you know- by accident).

 (Salutation Nation last September in Halifax Commons. Choice of event wasn't the greatest as there were THREE softball games going on with balls flying into the crowd a few times!)

Beyond the silliness of some ridiculous capitalistic "raising money to practice for free in central park", Outside Yoga is all about connecting with Nature and your green crunchy self. If you ever need a bit of motivation to crunch-ify your life, practicing yoga outside can give you a boost.

As this will be my sixth summer of outside yoga practice, I've gathered up a few tips on outdoor yoga practice that I thought I'd share. Especially for all my EcoYogi peeps who have yet to take the outdoor yoga plunge!

(equipped with my old flaking mat I saved for Yoga in the Park, my Klean Kanteen water bottle and sunglasses!)

Outdoor Yoga Mat Tips:

• Choose your yoga mat carefully. Now, I don't want to endorse buying several mats, cuz that's wasteful... but if you have a less preferred mat I would suggest using that one outside. Outside Yoga can get dirty and messy...
• Be prepared to clean your mat more often, or to accept that your outdoor mat will be messier.
• TPE and rubber yoga mats are ruined by the sun's rays. No lie.

(practicing on the red beaches in PEI last summer. Although it was overcast, the temperature was warm and the ocean was so powerful)

Weather Tips:

• Check the weather before practicing outside. I know this sounds silly, but if it's giving 30 degrees outside you might choose something you'll sweat less in... That and practicing in a torrential downpour might not be your plan for that day.
• Wear sunscreen and sunglasses. Skin cancer isn't cool.
• Bring water and extra sunscreen. You never know.
• If it's windy- rocks, flip flops or blocks work really well to keep your mat from blowing up around your legs. Cuz that's just awkward.

(practicing on the dock at the cottage this summer. studiously facing away from the neighbours)

Space to Practice Tips:

• Choose a flat surface to practice on. Scope out your spot- it might look like a slight incline, but when you've only ever practiced on a studio floor, you'll feel like you're listing to the side or about to fall flat on your face. 
• Check for dog poo. Seriously, parks are terrible for this. Last year during our practice a poor girl put her hand in the grass only to find out it wasn't just grass. :S
• Remove rocks, broken mussel shells or any other sketchy debris. 
• Practicing on a dock can be fun... but remember docks typically move on the water. Be mentally prepared to have a bit of a tipsy practice. Hangover yoga could be a bad idea. (trust me).
• Choose your level of privacy. Practicing in a public space means accepting that people will see you and perhaps even take your picture ("look honey- a yogi!!"). More privacy=a tree-friendly area in the park, less privacy=the dock. You might like the idea of practicing surrounded by water, but all the other cottages or lake people can see you clear as day.
• Be prepared to politely ask some creepy old man in a motorized chair to stop zooming in on you and your friends' chests and taking pictures from 5ft away. (this happened two weekends ago).

Yoga Tips:

• Your practice might not be exactly the same. It's amazing how our foundation is so essential to what we expect from our practice.
• Balance postures are tricky when the ground is uneven, your drishti (focus) is on swaying grass or moving waves and the wind is actually pushing on you. All the cool yogis fall over more outside.
• Focus and concentration are a bit trickier to come by when there are squirrels, crows, ants crawling on your mat, container ships and small children screaming "look mommy! YOGA!!!". 
• You may feel more vulnerable in savasana with your eyes closed. 
• Using a water bottle as a block is completely acceptable.
• Outside Yoga is the perfect environment to have a playful practice!

Now- google your city and "Yoga in the Park" and you are as good as ready!!

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Casseroles for Environmental Rights

No one likes to read blog posts about politics and voting. No really, it's true (I have stats and minimal comments to prove it). Which is unfortunate, really, since by plugging our ears and shouting 'lalalalala!' on the increasingly depressing Conservative government we're allowing our country to do a whole slew of nasty things to our health, women's rights and the environment.

Yep, I will admit that I honestly hate hearing about what the Harper Government has in store for us each day. I no longer see myself in the political and social stance that my country's government is setting in place. For whom did Harper government back out of the Kyoto Agreement? Or cut thousands of environmental protection and Parks Canada jobs? Or put forth in a sneaky bill a drastic reduction in environmental regulation, policing in conjunction with mass scientist muzzling?

Definitely not it's citizens. Not for me.

Bill c-38, which the government is trying to push through WITHOUT citizen input or debate includes five scary changes and reasons to speak out (from BlackOutSpeakOut ou SilenceOnParle and why The David Suzuki Foundation is Speaking Out):

1. While they are cutting funding left and right to environmental protection agencies, the Harper government is funding 8 million dollars into the Canada Revenue Agency to police and audit charities and non-profit organizations (such as the David Suzuki Foundation)... making it more difficult for them to exercise their right to advocate for environmental policies and change. (um, don't see them upping the policing for oil companies now do we?).
2. Our participation in a democratic system is being completely ignored. Supposedly there is a well established process for citizen involvement and debate when it comes to such sweeping changes (unfortunately, my political involvement is really only since the days of a conservative minority government, so having an open democratic government almost seems utopic to me). Shockingly, the government has put forth these drastic changes in one massive budget bill... that doesn't allow any citizen input. At all.
3. The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act will be replaced... with something that has much less policing and investigation of new projects and new substances while allowing the government to 'ok' whatever new projects come their way (i.e. money making, polluting Big Oil projects). This means that our government will no longer be adequately protecting us against toxins and pollutants nor will they be safeguarding the country we live in and the resources that we depend on. 
1. Americans, this implicates you as well. Harper's push to get the oil sands piped to the US? That was WITH the current environmental assessment procedures lobbying against the decision. With less policing projects that affect our climate, oceans and forests will most certainly affect yours (it's not like the air, water or trees give a crap about borders).
4. Funding for environmental testing and safety are being cut or completely removed. Jobs in Oceans and Fisheries are being cut by the thousands (while our military budget for an imaginary war doesn't seem to have a lot of money woes...). 'Nuff Said. 
5. This bill would effectively muzzle government scientists and restrict their ability to communicate and speak out regarding their findings. This is so beyond shocking, that I can't even begin to articulate how disappointed and ashamed I am that my government is trying to restrict and control scientific exploration, discovery and debate. 

As you can see on BlackOutSpeakOut's web page, hundreds of environmental charities and organizations are joining together to fight this colossal step back in Canada's democratic and societal history. (SilenceOnParle pour le site français).

Today is Ocean's Day... and Canada has THREE Oceans (personally the Atlantic coast is my favourite- so powerful and majestic). 

Yes the government is frustrating, yes we feel helpless to create change, but THIS is a reason to be angry. Bill c-38 is a reason to get up in arms. Regardless of your political leanings. Regardless if you're a hardcore, tree hugging hippie or not. 

We can take courage and inspiration to become agents of change from the Casseroles in Québec (and now rippling across the country and internationally). As Québec citizens step outside to fight for their right to speak out and protest, so to should we not allow this blow to our political rights as Canadian citizens (read Mr Suzuki's comparison between the Québec protests and the implications on our country and government).

(these nightly 8pm protests have been happening for the past two weeks- and continue to do so)

Together, we can take our pots and pans, write letters (or send pre-written letters), sign petitions and gather our democratic right to protect our country, health and to be heard. 

Sign the BlackOutSpeakOut Petition (international readers are able as well)

Send a David Suzuki prepared letter in honour of Oceans Day to Stephen Harper

Send a letter to Finance Minister Jim Flaherty

Send a letter to your local MP

Or to... Stephen Harper himself: stephen.harper@parl.gc.ca 

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

How to Deepen your Yoga Practice Without Taking YTT: Home Sequencing

 This post is for all my non yoga teachers peeps... for those who want to deepen their practice without becoming a yoga instructor... while on a budget.

(my last two sequences. Unfortunately the "April" sequence (left) didn't turn out as well as the "May" sequence (right)... despite looking more organized, it just wasn't as fun. But that's ok :)

Practicing yoga can be expensive (I've decided on a bi-monthly class system to keep up the learning- I'm a physical kinesthetic yoga learner kinda gal) but home practice can be so challenging. Beyond the organizational stuff (timing, carving out space etc) how do you know what to do? What poses to practice?

Online yoga classes that stream into your living room may be convenient (I heart Yogaglo!), but they aren't always what your body needs or wants in that moment. Sometimes I don't want to LISTEN to an instructor go on about SILENCE while talking the entire way through the class. Ya know? I just wanna practice. But how do you create a sequence just off the top of your head?

It's definitely a bit tricky, but most certainly possible even if (GASP I did NOT just go there) you're not a yoga instructor (yep, I did).

I started creating my own sequences in part because I had to teach Andrew how to practice the basics before he would even consider attending a class with me, and because I got tired of trying to think off the top of my head, getting through 10 surya namaskars (sun sals) and drawing a blank.

Through my doodling and trying out different sequences I've learned a lot about my own practice preferences (I always like to start out with some surya's and end with standing balance postures...), made me reflect on the transitions between postures and on where my body is during each stage. My personal practice is now much more fun and not restricted to what is available on Yogaglo or Yoga Journal premade sequences. Plus, it's a definite bonus for Yoga in the Park.

Here are a few tips to help you start up your own personal practice yoga sequencing:

1. Get yourself your own "Yoga Book" (or for my Wiccan peeps- Yoga Grimoire lol). It honestly can be anything, but works best if you can keep the sequences together. Mine is a section in my journaling book. Easy to bring around and will stay open in the park with my flip flops holding the pages down.

2. Read some stuff about sequencing. Honestly, I read "Yoga Therapy" and looked at a bunch of Yoga Journal pre-made sequences in the beginning.

3. Think about preparing your body for certain future postures. Like some hip openers before doing Half Moon, or side stretches before doing Triangle. Since this is for personal discovery and yoga growth, use it playfully to see what feels natural and what doesn't. You are not trying to be a yoga instructor, so don't worry about it :)

4. Think about what you like from your favourite yoga classes. Is it the flow-y vinyasa parts? Or do you prefer slower, yin type classes? Take a few mental notes and see how they work for you at home.

(my english/sanskrit (you can see "-numan" which is "hanuman"), arrows, symbols and stickmen yogi sequence!)

5. Start writing it out! I use a numbering system with arrows, English and Sanskrit terms along with fun stickmen. Honestly, stickmen are the way to go- especially if you're not 100% on the actual names of postures. While you practice a quick glance at the stick-yogi and you'll know exactly what to do.

6. Make sure you aren't too wordy in your sequence. This is supposed to be a quick glance reference for you to support a better home practice. You shouldn't be trying to read a book during your practice.

7. Keep writing! Trust me, it only gets better with practice.

There is so much to gain from creating your own personal sequences and it's a beautiful way to deepen your yoga practice (without taking a YTT). :) 


(ps- check out La Gitane's lovely comment for extra tips!!)

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Ideas that don't involve light switches for Earth Day

I have never been one for "Earth Day" or "Earth Hour". Mostly because changes need to happen every day and turning off the lights for an hour really isn't doing all that much.

That said, I feel like events such as Earth Day can be used to help promote awareness and maybe do something a bit more politically active. That political part of being a Greenie is often the hardest, for a whole variety of reasons.

Yesterday, while driving the 5 hour drive from Sydney Cape Breton to Halifax, I was listening to an account of the recent student protests in Montreal. These students have the courage to stand up and say "NON" to officials and the status quo.

We can use tomorrow as an opportunity to do the same.

Some ideas for Earth Day that DON'T involve turning off your lights or recycling:

1. Start your weekend with Free Earth Day Karma Yoga in the Park.

Today at 11am, Halifax YITP will be practicing by the ocean to re-centre and reconnect with Nature. Be flexible- maybe today will be better weather than tomorrow.
If you don't own a studio- approach the owner about supporting an impromptu YITP in your city for Earth Day.
Or take a second to do a google search of your city to see if one is already being hosted!

2. Look to see if there are community-type events in your city/town/neighbourhood. It's a great way to connect with others who are also concerned about the Planet.

3. Use this community event to try Greenie Networking. Seriously, most of the time it's pretty awkward to bring up things like resource/tool sharing in random conversations ("so... do you have any tools you'd like to share? I've got a hammer..."). But on Earth Day, with a little finagling, it's totally appropriate. Try something like: "I always wish that our neighbourhood had something like a tool sharing library.... it would be so easy to set up." And wait and see what happens :)

4. Find a protest/march going on in your city and join! For all you Montrealer readers, there will be an Earth Day Rally going on concurrently with the student march. If I lived in Montreal, that's where I'd be (after some serious, grounding, yoga).

5. Haligonians: Go check out the Tree Planting happening tomorrow! HRM will be helping to plant 200 trees, and all are welcome! Check out the HRM Planting Awesome page, or Planting Awesome's website for details.

Use Earth Day for an extra bit of Eco Activism!

article and photograph copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

The Challenge of Being an Eco-Yogi: Critical Thinking and Yoga

Being an "EcoYogini" has actually been more difficult than I originally believed. Surprising? I think I was being a bit naive in the entire process.

Everything about the environmental movement involves questioning. Instead of swallowing the status quo, we start to question whether our current way of living truly is better for our planet and our race. Because we're surrounded by consumeristic choices, we have to spend our time critically examining all information that comes our way.

Is a product truly the "green" choice the company says it is? 

Is there a way we can do things with less impact?

Should we be investing in sustainable energy sources or decreasing and living with less?

People typically don't look to yoga seeking more questions. Generally it's to find some answers. Think about why you began to practice yoga.

"To find peace and decrease stress" (answer)

"To get physically fit" (answer)

"To reconnect with myself" (answer)

The entire starting point, the original premise, of yoga practice then becomes not about critically examining your surroundings, but a beginning based solely on finding answers. As a result, asking more questions really isn't high up on the priority scale. So it doesn't happen that often.

When you start to ask questions, for example why do yoga studios wax poetic about ahimsa followed by choosing to offer heated classes using energy with a high carbon footprint, they aren't always exactly welcome.

Even questioning the rule of "no inversions during moon time" garners some interesting responses.

It's difficult to question a practice that is so entrenched in spirituality and faith. Even approaching and voicing concerns can be met with admonishments of "non-violent communication", or some fluffy nonsensical sentence meant to dismiss or divert- they come in light and love. "You just need to let go and have faith in the practice" is a slippery slope.

Finding a balance between blind acceptance and openness to questions can be tough. Allowing yourself some questions can also bring you to a better understanding of your yoga practice and taking steps to make those changes so important for our planet.

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Flipping over for Yoga in the Park!

Tonight we practiced our first Yoga in the Park 2012. It was in the mid twenties- freakish climate change type weather for March.

After a week of being sick, presenting for Andrew's business communication second year university course, an emergency trip to the vet for Atreyu AGAIN (UTI this time, and apparently last time as well) and craziness at work I needed some outside yoga love.

Although it wasn't nearly the quiet sound of ocean waves against the shore, feeling the sun on my face and the wind over my skin was pure magic. 

Three of us YITP peeps faced the ocean and quietly moved through five surya a's at our own pace. The beauty of practicing sun sals quietly is the ability to allow your mind to explore and experience the breath and the postures. I've had much less patience for instructors who just can't seem to allow space for silence (do I really need to hear about the minute adjustments or some karma one liner while in downdog for five breaths?).

As YITP is more about practicing as a group of yogis together outside in a free space, and less about teaching and learning yoga- this is the perfect environment for "less is more". 

After five surya a's I led us through an easy flow-y sequence opening our hearts, preparing our sides and hips for an eventual triangle and ending with a fun new asana: "fallen angel". YITP is the perfect space for trying silly new asanas in a safe non judgemental space. 

I had the urge to try to feel light, and hopped my legs up a few times. It's been years that I've been doing this, never coming close to hovering- handstand a far away dream. So a few kick ups with a muttered "someday I want to do handstand" and HOP..... my legs go up.... and up.... and up..... and there goes the sky.... and oh I'm going over... OVER!!! I think: "Holy shit, I actually did it! and SMACK. My back lands on the mat. Thankfully the soft grass makes for a cushy landing and I managed to protect my neck. I'm sure it was pretty darn comical to see.

Hello Yoga in the Park- I have missed you.

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Yoga and "Thinspiration": How Natural are "Natural" Weight Loss Supplements

Despite our uber cynical and critical selves, pressure to fit a certain "body ideal" thrives... especially in the cognitive dissonance that is Western Yoga. We may pay lip service to how yoga is for "every body" and many of us are fighting the good fight, but mainstream perception as well as what gets often (incorrectly if you ask me) tagged as "art" always includes one of the 5th percentile: skinny female form, scantily clad and achieving all the physical that is often touted as "secondary" to the yoga practice.
For 95% of us, this is the physically impossible ideal we're encouraged to strive towards.

This stuff is insidious, unconscious but most certainly present. A billion dollar advertising industry isn't wrong when they assume that the 300+ ads we as a population see a day isn't influencing our spending, how we feel about our bodies and our selves. Disordered eating has been directly linked to advertising and social/cultural body ideal pressures... and 95% of all people who suffer form disordered eating are women. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental health issues (Nedic for more information)

When a yoga instructor has pages after pages of pinterest boards with "thin ideal porn" of thin yoga bodies and degrading negative self comments- something is wrong. Previously to social media like facebook, twitter and pinterest there were such sites called "pro-ana" websites. Where women would post and peruse photos and "motivational" posts of extremely thin women. These websites are unhealthy eating, harmful tips on losing weight and perpetuate the unrealistic body type ideal. A quick search on pinterest of "thinspiration+yoga" reveals some pretty disturbing photos. Taking it a few steps further and you'll see entire pins filled with thin bodies (typically without heads) and non-realistic board statements such as: "Do you think she got this skinny by sitting on her ass and eating crap?..." (actually, healthy eating and great exercise can't change bone structure- part of that is genetics- hence the unrealistic ideal).

Many of these pin boards feature thin yoginis in acrobatic asanas.

We know that diet pills are bad, that dieting is unhealthy (and unsuccessful, resulting in higher weight gain)... but what about when we attach words like "eco, organic, natural" or even "ayurvedic" to a program/product? Of all the greenwashing- this stuff irks me the most.

For example: "natural weight loss herbs" and "slimming supplements". A fantastic article co-written by my husband Andrew here on EcoYogini a few years ago delves more deeply into the sociological fallacies of the supplement industry. What's interesting is the historical significance of how we've been quietly shepherded into accepting that taking supplements in lieu of whole foods (such as calcium instead of drinking milk) has allowed the supplement industry to create acceptance of a pill as a true food healthy alternative.

The true definition of what we're looking for to be "natural" would be something that is the least modified. Powdered and pill supplements are far from this definition.

Self-proclaimed "natural" weight loss supplements are even more sketchy in nature as they often have poor safety trials and extremely loose regulations. For example, in 2009 Health Canada recalled 68 brands of "natural" weight loss supplements because they contained undeclared prescription only ingredients, some of which had serious health side effects. (Adria Vasil, Ecoholic January 5th 2012). Also reported by Ecoholic, some supplements have been found by ConsumerLab.com to have hexavalent chromium (that cancer agent on Erin Brockovich) and a quick stroll through the warning archives reveals an unending stream of recalls and violations.

We shouldn't forget herbs that appear straightforward as well. Such as Hoodia which is now an endangered species in Africa. Environment Canada has had to stop thousands of illegal shipments of diet pills containing Hoodia. It's so important to consider how those third world country herbs were collected and processed, it's not like they magically appeared in pill form someone had to input labour.

Staying healthy is important. If becoming healthy is part of your plan this year, instead of thinking "weight loss" try thinking "health-gain". Honestly, natural supplements aren't healthy, and many aren't actually environmentally friendly (or safe).

If someone encourages you in your yoga practice to take supplements, try a purge or makes your feel like there's an end-point body ideal: they're not practicing yoga. 

**NB: as an astute commenter pointed out (Thanks Nicole!)- supplements prescribed by an accredited Naturapathic doctor are a different kettle of fish. At the same time, even then you should try to do what you feel comfortable.
article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Ujiai to survive blood work and roller coasters: Yoga off the mat

Within months of my introduction to yoga, I was already using one yoga principle regularly off the mat... Ujiai breathing. While I practice, Ujiai helps me focus and direct my energy to meditate in movement, to make it through a difficult practice and to assure that I don't just hold my breath and pass out (hah).

Interestingly enough, that audible breathing technique (like fogging up a mirror, but with your mouth closed) can be useful in other difficult, painful and/or scary situations. Such as waxing, needles, roller coasters and getting blood work done.

Today was a blood work day. The last time was four years ago, where I also used Ujiai breathing so I wouldn't vomit and/or pass out in front of the seniors. Thankfully, as it did then, it was also successful today (that and Andrew was there to hold my hand).

Interestingly enough, other types of breath constriction combined with speaking- like whispering, where your vocal folds (cords), are brought together close enough to vibrate while allowing air to scrape past, can be harmful to these precious communication musical instruments in your throat. Whispering is bad for your vocal cords- don't do it.

Thankfully we don't use Ujiai breath all day, otherwise it would also become damaging to our precious vocal folds. (Yoga instructors out there: please don't model Ujiai breath during your classes, combined with your "yoga teaching" voice, it's most likely damaging!).

So, my first  off the mat yoga practice has helped me get through various scary and painful situations. Thank you Ujiai breath.

What was your first Yoga off the mat moment?

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Thunderstorm Yoga

If it wasn't ridiculous or completely insane:

The most powerful yoga practice would be outside in a lightening and thunderstorm.

Lightening in Halifax June 2011 (Halifax NewsNet)

Lightening tonight over Cowie Hill- photo credit

Something I never realized, but while living in BC summers consisted on almost zero thunderstorms. Here in the maritimes thunder and lightening storms are a staple in the summer. Summer and lightening hang out together. I missed it.

As I type Halifax is just wrapping up an intense chain lightening+hail crazy thunderstorm complete with a hazy yellow sunset and double rainbows.

I need to figure out a way to make yoga in a thunderstorm happen without killing myself. 

I'm thinking a gazebo with a lightening rod nearby to divert possible hits. Sounds like a solid plan eh?

Yoga Safely with Sunscreen: A Badger Review

Being the daughter of a red head means that I've thought about skin cancer. A bunch. 

Practicing yoga outside and skin cancer kinda go together now... Don't get me wrong, I used to lay out on a tanning bed when I was a young-un (ok, 17-18yrs old) and the thought of actively exposing my delicate skin to Ultraviolet rays makes me feel a little nauseous. Unfortunately, unlike my red headed dad (and my pale pale husband) I tan *very* well and easily. 

Weirdly, the UV index has been extremely high in the past few weeks... I never thought about it before, but it seems it's just permanently set to '9-Extremely High'. Didn't there use to be lower UV numbers? 

According to the World Health Organization, there's been a marked increase in skin cancers worldwide, and although we've made great strides in eliminating ozone depleting chemicals we're still exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Exposure to Ultraviolet radiation is the cause of 20% of 12 to 15 billion global cases of blindness, 130,000 malignant skin cancers and has been linked to suppressing cell-mediated immunity; limiting the efficacy of vaccinations (WHO). According to this article in National Geographic, the ozone layer was thinner this spring- awesome. (check out this fantastic post at Balance Blog for a more in depth look at sunscreens!)

For a successful Yoga in the Park, a Yogi(ni) MUST wear sunblock (and have a 'YITP friendly' mat- a cloth  mat or old mat that won't break down from the sun). 

Of course, sunscreen has some pretty nasty chemicals that seep right into your skin. EEP. Oxybenzone; a weak hormone disruptor found in 95% of 6-8yr old girls' urine and found in our soil and waterways, estrogenic octinoxate, hormone disruptor homosalate and possible carcinogen enzulizole all are found in common sunscreens (Ecoholic 2007).

So- This year I was determined to find a fabulous eco-friendly sunblock for my staple weekend Yoga in the Park.

I thought Badger SPF 30 was the winner. Non-nano with certified organic ingredients and made the Environmental Working Group's best sunscreen list for 2011.

Too bad it was an epic fail as a sunscreen. (sorry no pics of the actual sunscreen, it was thrown out in a fit of anger).

The Review:

Smell: Yummy, like shea butter. mmmm...

Look and texture: icky white oily paste that is difficult to rub in. 

Casual walk around the city test: 

Both of our arms turned pink and my arms tanned while his face pinkened.

Yoga in the Park between 10h30-12pm Saturday:

Despite both of us slathering the stuff on, we both burned to a crisp. Sadly, Andrew burned even worse as he doesn't acquire base tans. It was honestly as if we hadn't been wearing sunscreen at all. In fact, Andrew's non-sunscreened legs (yep he forgot) burned *just* as badly as his supposedly 'protected' face, arms and neck. 

Andrew's lovely legs- TWO days post Yoga in the Park. Saturday evening he was crowned 'Lobster Man'. Only a very supportive husband would let me post pics of his legs on my blog... lol

Lesson- Avoid Badger Sunscreen. As it's late in the season and we're not risking any more skin cancer or cataracts, we bit the chemical bullet and bought regular sunblock. Eff-it, we'll try again next year.

Any environmentally friendly sunscreens that actually work? 

Yoga Safely- wear sunblock!

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

YITP Peep's Goals for the Summer- Help Pls!

Last year, as a fluke, our Coffee and Yoga crew created a yoga goal: Bakasana by the end of the summer. Each yoga practice involved asanas that helped prepare and strengthen for crow and we problem solved together different ways to get in and out of the posture. It was surprisingly fun and the crew decided to give it another try this summer.

A slight glitch is that our Yoga in the Park group is pretty varied when it comes to experience... so we decided to each choose our own personal goals.There are a few challenges with this decision, the biggest one being that we can't all work together through common prep asana's and sequences. So I'll have to think of sequences that include some prep for (hopefully) the majority of my peeps goals.

Although it looks chilly, it was warm in the mist at the beach that morning...

Weirdly enough, I'm kinda excited for the challenge.

As I'm blessed with many yoga teacher readers, I was wondering if there'd be some tips, thoughts, suggestions to help us on our yoga journey this summer. :) Following are the goals, my ideas and what I've read. I'd love to hear any feedback or thoughts from you. Also, if you haven't tried creating a Yoga Goal, give it some thought- summer and outdoor yoga is the perfect setting to try something a bit adventurous.

Yoga in the Park Personal Adventure 2011:

Lisa's Goal: Halfmoon (Ardha Chandrasana). 

Oh I have been working on this one for YEARS. What I need to work on is forward folds, triangles (side stretching) and hips hips hips. My challenge is opening my hip and getting enough lift from my leg.

Jen's Goal: Lowering from plank-chaturanga

She's almost there, I've seen her! I'm thinking core to take some of the edge off the arms and shoulders and as her legs are uber strong, some arm and shoulder strengthening (such as Dolphin plank, side plank and downdogs). 

Tips on correct placement:

From plank, keeping the elbows in, slowly lower until a few feet from the floor. Keep neck extended, shoulders open and tailbone tucked in (no dipping the belly or butt popping up).

Andrew's Goal: Wheel

He's succeeded in lifting up twice (maybe he says, when he was going to the gym every day...). I'm excited that with regular practice it'll be something fun to witness. Lots of Bridges, cobras and upward facing dogs. I'm also thinking Cow Face Pose (sans hips) and lots of chest openings (like forward folds with arms interlaced behind his back, fish pose) would be good to open up his chest-arms.

Chris's Goal: Handstand

Chris has fabulous upper body strength and has always loved the more adventurous postures. If anyone can do this he can! All descriptions that I've heard of learning handstand has involved a lot of up against the wall ideas and partner work. Now partnering can happen at YITP, but as there aren't any walls in the great outdoors, Chris may need to practice this one at home as well. 

Tips involve regular hop ups, strengthening poses like planks, down dogs and crow and I'm also thinking core core core. I've heard the trick is to lift from your core and not from your arms.

Heather's Goal: Practice without shoulder pain

This one's tricky. Heather has a beautiful, strong frame but her shoulders have taken a lot from playing ball hockey and ice hockey (she rocks). Postures like downward dog and plank hurt her shoulders, but I'm also wondering if concurrently she could focus intensely on her core. Strengthening her may lessen the weight on her shoulders... She may also want to slowly build up her tolerance, taking a slightly opposite route from Jen and step back to using her knees for chaturanga dandasana. 

Kevin's Goal: Reconnecting with Yoga

A few years ago Kevin and Heather were practicing with us regularly once and sometimes twice a week. Life has gotten in the way and now they're super busy with hockey, soft ball and ball hockey. Yoga can be challenging for tight hamstrings and hips and a busy mind (I have all these too, so I can  totally relate). Kevin will work on finding just enough push instead of giving up the posture without hurting himself. That in of itself is a challenge.

Lori's Goal: Crow Pose

She can totally pull this one off. She's definitely a ridiculous yogini ready to take off. I never hear a peep or a complaint from her, which is more than I can say for myself. This one is another shoulder strengthener and we'll be working on core (and more core) for the lift needed, arm strengthening and malasana. I've always tried it by positioning, lifting up my core, sucking in my navel and leaning forward. Jen, last year, was successful by widening her stance and placing her knees on the outside of her arms. As each body is different we'll sure be trying a bunch of options (and a pillow in the park will be a must!).

Carla's Goal: Jumping to the front from downdog

One of the most open, honest and fierce yoginis in our group, Carla definitely will achieve this one. Of course, it's yet another core posture (geez, is there a theme here?). Jumping to the front generally involves a bunch of practice, sucking in your navel, looking forward, bending your knees and making that leap. A pillow can help and I think the soft grass will also help her confidence (although I've found it trickier to actually make a jump). We'll be practicing during apartment yoga too!

Any tips that may work for my peeps? 

Got any personal adventures planned for this summer?

article and photograph copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Eco-Souvenir-Giving-Person... Tips!

Île-du-Prince Edouard (PEI) was beautiful... who knew? (Actually I'm sure lots of you knew that, I just haven't been since I was five!).

Besides the ridiculous amount of yoga on the ocean, restauranting with in-laws (...yep...) and reading, I picked up a few things as souvenirs for friends. Now, I have a pretty large hate-on for those ridiculous tourist knick-knack-y stuffs. You know, little statues that say 'Cancun' or whatever. Not only are they almost always made 'Not in the visited country' but they never get used, collect dust and are immensely wasteful. I think my extreme aversion comes from my dad's friends.

Ok, I'll explain quick- my family never could afford to travel 'down south' every winter- which was fine by me. My parent's friends often went every year though, and always always brought back some stupid little knick knack. Shot glasses (with lead so we can't use them), creepy seashell dudes playing cards... you get the picture. They now line every shelf and wooden window covering at our cottage. Ugh.

My goal when I travel? If I'm bringing something back it's going to be local, usable and hopefully sustainably made. Of course the best thing would be to just bring back the pictures to share... but some of us have kitten sitters and friends who we just want to share a piece of our travels. So here's a break down of Eco-Souvenir-Giving as I see it:

Lobster traps in PEI are 'old school' and made of wood. Which is weird since in Yarmouth County, traps are wire, weigh a zillion pounds. The Captain (see pic below) explained that since they don't fish very far out in the ocean, and in the summer time the traps don't take as much of a beating. Also, the lobsters in PEI will choose the wooden traps over the wire ones...

BEST: Sustainable, locally made and totally usable.
First thing to think of while searching- instead of buying more 'stuff', purchase something that they can actually USE. I mean, drink or eat. Clothing can be tricky, accessories- same (unless you really know their taste), so edible items are always a winner.

Then focus on where it's made- locally by a small funky artisan is best. That way your gift will truly be special and unique.

Follow this up with a good dose of sustainability and you're good to go. Honestly though? I try for the first two then worry about the third, otherwise I'd go bonkers.

I took some pictures of the smaller lobster boats for my dad and brother- if you look closely you can see the Captain of CaT Sass (teehee), who we of course chatted with. Otherwise we'd be creepy picture taking tourists...

Some ideas? Locally brewed micro brewed beer. We picked up Gahan House, brewed in Charlottetown beer for our friends. Local wine, like the tasty Rossignol wine we brought back for our kitten's Tante and Uncle. Nova Scotia even has local distillery, Ironworks. Trust me, alcohol can TOTALLY be wrapped up in a few sweaters and bags and survive the flight home.

Jams, preserves and such are always fun. We brought back two jars of locally made fancy jam from PEI's Preserve Company (Strawberry and Grand Marnier or Blackberry-Champagne? Yes!). They actually make the jam onsite.

A really fun idea, my friend Jen brought us back some locally grown and roasted Hawaiian coffee beans, Maui Coffee. Although we can get locally roasted, coffee beans do not grow in Nova Scotia. How cool is that?

Of course, the closer to home your summer travel adventure keeps you, the more sustainable. Sometimes just exploring your own Province (or State) is a fantabulous experience.

AND- Make practicing yoga in some fun outdoor space a part of your Adventure!

Blessings!


article and photographs copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Yoga Off the Mat: Summer YITP Events

Summer for the past three years has meant Yoga in the Park! Although some issues have arisen, it's been overall a fantabulous experience - I Heart me some YITP.

This year we have two very special occasions all set up to further the Karma and bring our Yoga off the mat. I thought I'd share them with you! (If you're not an HRM Yogi(ni), maybe a little inspiration to spread the YITP love in your community?)

1. YITP for Zero Force Cycling Team (Child Soldier Initiative) July 9th
My lovely friend, Carla who's doing her PhD in International Studies, always brings the reality of what life can be like for those in other countries.. and the reality of what war causes.

In many countries, Child Soldiers are a reality of war. Children are abducted as young as 6 years of age, girls and boys, tortured, drugged, raped, beaten and forced to commit atrocities against their very own families and communities (assuring they won't be easily welcomed back). Children are sought after for their impulsive and small-quick physicality. Although difficult to determine exact numbers, 250,000 children are currently estimated to be child soldiers around the world.

Roméo Dallaire, a retired Lieutenant-General, founded the Child Soldier Initiative out of Dalhousie University. In October 2010, the Zero Force campaign was launched. Aimed at raising awareness in Canadian youth, Zero Force encourages them to take action in their own communities against the recruitment of child soldiers in a way that is meaningful to them.

The Zero Force Cycling Team (ZFCT) is made up of 4 young guys who like to cycle (as in Bicycle). Their goal is to raise 150,000 for Child Soldier Initiative by bicycling from Vancouver to Halifax this summer; a 7,500km cross country trip!

On July 9th, Yoga in the Park will support a practice where donations will be accepted to support the ZFCT and the Child Soldier Initiative. 100% of proceeds will go towards the Child Soldier Initiative. Check out the facebook event, the ZFCT or Child Soldier Initiative sites for more information.

A great 'extra' is that ZFCT and Child Soldier Initiative has received fabulous support from two specific Yoga Studios- Therapeutic Approach Yoga Studio and Sunrise Yoga Studio. Karma classes (where 100% of proceeds will go to CSI) are being held July 16th 12:30-1:45 at TAYS and August 28th 2-3:15pm (with our fabulous Helen Fong again!) at Sunrise.

2. Halifax Fusion YITP August 13th
Fusion Halifax is all helping young Haligonian professionals to create a community and inspire active citizenship while forging a path for the future of Halifax. They even have a 'Sustainability' section of their Vision Statement:

We want to make our ecological footprint as small as possible and are committed to do everything we can to make it happen. We want our recycling programs to be world-class. We want to minimize our carbon emissions and we want our businesses to be environmental role models.

Helen Fong, CYT (and 2010 Halifax Fusion Award Nominee) and most importantly and fabulous supporter of our student led Coffee and Yoga and YITP, will be leading the class:

We are collaborating with Yoga In The Park (a group of yoga enthusiasts who meet regularly on & off the mat throughout the year) to bring YOU a refreshing outdoor yoga class. Helen Fong, Certified Yoga Teacher and 2010 Fusion Halifax Go Award nominee will be leading this 45-minute Yin Yang Fusion class, which will highlight yoga poses that will Connect, Engage and Inspire. Please bring a yoga mat, pillow, blanket and a bottle of water. See you at the park!

We're so excited that our humble, student-initiated YITP will be supporting community building and activism this summer. Yoga off the mat- oh yeah!

Blessings!

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Permaculture- it's not just about dirt and gardening

Spontaneous permaculture talks. I mean- what else could be more titillating? Do we live on the wild side or what?

You may be asking (as I did): 'What the eff is permaculture?'

Well... honestly if the talk were any indication, besides something that radical hippies/hipsters (hey, not that I'm not a tree hugger myself, I just happen to own a fridge) buy into, permaculture has something to do with agriculture. Permanent Agriculture is a term that has grown into, over time, "Permaculture".

Clear right? (Let's just say that the presenter wasn't the best at clearly defining topic and explaining the "what" in "What is permaculture").

Ok, so it's actually a lot more than simply a closed loop, sustainable agricultural system... which is what I originally thought permaculture to be. A quick search on wiki reveals that modern permaculture is:

...a system design tool. It is a way of:

1. looking at a whole system or problem;
2. observing how the parts relate;
3. planning to mend sick systems by applying ideas learned from long-term sustainable working systems;
4. seeing connections between key parts.... (wiki source)

(interested? More info on permaculture at Permaculture Principles)

A friend of mine had informed me that morning that the talk was occurring at a tiny bookstore-cafe two seconds from where we live (The Trident). As we'd never been there before, and hey I like ecological topics, we decided to attend. First of all, being type A, it was a little stressful to discover that the time was a little fouffy, no one (even the staff at Trident) really knew when it was starting and seating was haphazardly assigned. I had a few deep breath moments.

The presenter was an experienced and obviously passionate farmer, Alex. He had a beautifully hand drawn "Permaculture Flower" taped up against the book shelves and I could still see the soil beneath his fingers. Although there were a few key aspects of his presentation that were a bit wonky (ridiculously poor organizational and explanation skills and some obvious biases against all government and traditional educational settings, and several conspiracy theories thrown in for good measure), Alex reminded me of a few key and inspirational Eco-Musts.

Firstly, to my surprise, he did not in fact begin talking about soil, plants or compost- but Peak Oil. Nothing new here- oil sequestered by the sun for millions of years is a finite resource, we're chewing through it at something like 80-something million barrels a day and have passed the point of the peak amount of oil available on our planet. It is something to consider, because unless we start investing in something else for energy, our fuel costs will just continue to skyrocket in the long term.

As I sat there, surrounded by large framed glasses wearing, huge beard and "trying to look authentically like a trucker hat even though I obviously have never lived outside the city my entire life" wearing early twenty somethings who chimed in at the end how "parents are the WORSE man", I kinda felt a bit out of touch. Ya know, I have visual evidence of me hugging a ginormous tree in Stanley Park (Vancouver BC), and truly have grown up in rural Nova Scotia where I'd come home regularly to a new deer gutted and hung up in my grandpy's barn to be shared with everyone, but I kept having moments of "please give me something practical and useful hear" instead of Mr. Alex's passionate advice to build a rocket stove or a root cellar.

I kept picturing Andrew and I attempting to cook grilled cheeses in a brick makeshift stove with the fire started by the twigs we gathered and an increasingly large black burned area in our living room floor. I figured it would be 5 minutes before our neighbours would call the fire station... and we'd get evicted.

After the first hour I had a harder time tracking his jumping bean train of thought and connecting all the dots. I found myself gazing lovingly at the beautiful Permaculture Flower.

Now this flower has some interesting community and life implications. 

It looks an awful lot like a pagan diagram. The spiral, the connection with nature and the ethical concept that we're here to care for our planet as stewards.  I wondered on the Goddess or probably pagan roots and connections. There is definitely something spiritual connected here.

At 9pm my face was so red, my heart and mind a bit heavy after such a long, disjointed and impassioned speech (we'd been there since 6:30pm), that I was very much happy to go. Even though I really wanted to directly challenge a few of his statements (that university brainwashes you, that parents and the baby boomers know nothing about conservation, that environmental organizations really don't do squat, that urban gardening is a waste of time, that cooperation and community has been lost in rural and urban settings alike...), I just got up and left. The thing is though, I'm fairly certain he would have listened respectfully and been a great conversation partner.

Ahh well- the following post on cooperation and community: why it's important to begin thinking about and how to start one in your living area, were worth the entirety of that 2+hour talk. :) That and it was so moving to see someone completely passionate and caring share his thoughts and ideas.

The one book I've read that mentions permaculture? The Earth Path by Starhawk. An amazing book btw that teaches you how to make seedbombs. Oh yeah.


article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Yoga+Hockey= Hoga... Yockey... Hocka?

I wish I had brought my camera. One of the most unexpected sights while Andrew and I were out watching our friend H.'s hockey game was a yoga demo....

Our friend H. is amazing, she decided a few years ago that she wanted to play hockey... even though she could barely skate. Her boyfriend K. picked up a pair of "boy" skates, brought her to an arena, found out there was no "women's hockey school" in Halifax for her to learn- so he started one. Fast forward two years later and she's seriously kicking butt in their division. I am so proud of her.

Although I strongly support her with my sign making, cheering madness (she says she isn't embarrassed when I show up to her games, but I don't know lol), her hockey playing has resulted in quite a few barriers to her yoga practice. She often has shoulder bruises and soreness from a hockey game, making so many of the asana's painful. She knows the modifications, but admittedly it's annoying and frustrating to have to constantly adjust most postures during a flow practice. It would be difficult to keep track of more than a few adjustments let alone trying to move gracefully between each asana, maintaining a semblance of flow.

It may have slowed her down, but yoga has been fully entrenched in H. and K.'s lives, which was fully evident last Saturday night.

As their team skated on the ice, pucks were dumped on each side of the rink and a quick few minutes of shooting, skating and warming up took place. I was settling into my seat with period "warm-up" cheers to Andrew's complete embarrassment (hah) when I noticed that about 6 players were all lined up stretching... No surprise, hockey players stretch on ice before games.

But then... "Is, is that H. doing upward dog??? She's TOTALLY doing upward dog on ice in full gear!" The entire line up wasn't just doing regular hockey stretches, but recognizable full yoga postures, on ice with skates, padding, gloves, helmet the whole nine yards.

We saw upward dog, pigeon (both sides- go balance!), frog, child's pose, reclining hand to big toe twist finishing with, I kid you not- plow pose. On ice. In skates.

Now *that* is guerrilla yoga :)


article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

High Fidelity

(pssst- have you noticed the new bloggy-banner for spring? It was taken on Barrington Street. The city commissioned various graffiti artists to paint ugly city-things not only to make them pretty, but to discourage other graffiti-ers from "defacing" them. It's like the "We wish" scene amidst a chilly cement spring).
 
My Top Five Eco-Yogisms

1. My prAna revolution natural rubber mat. I was fortunate enough to have bought it at a 50% discount last year. After a year of heavy use and it still looks barely worn.
2. My halfmoon cork block. It's heavy, sturdy and soft enough to be comfortable.
3. Vinegar and water with a spritz of lavender essential oil mat cleaner. Cheap, effective and easy on our water supplies.
4. Practicing Yoga outside. I cannot *wait* for 15 degrees+ weather.
5. Refusing to buy the trendy yoga merch.

My Top Five Eco-Loves

1. My flip and tumbles. They have helped me save countless plastic bags. By far the best compact reusable bag ever. Like little popples for your purse! ('80's child alert!)
2. Walking to work. Despite the fact that driving is quicker and cheaper than walking+ferry, I feel so much more grounded when I walk to work.
3. My klean kanteen coffee carafe. So easy to clean, no nasty petroleum leaching into my coffee.
4. Green Beaver moisturizer. The *only* moisturizer that works in the Canadian winters.
5. Andrew's home made bread. So tasty and preservative-free. Yum!


My Top Five Musics Today

1. Amelia Curran- Hunter Hunter.
2. Ariane Moffatt- Tous les sens
3. Radio Radio- Belmundo Regal
4. Jenn Grant- Getcha Good video was shot in Halifax!
5. Hawksley Workman- Your beauty must be rubbing off

What's your Top Five?

article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

How to be Alone... the Significance of Cemeteries

I really like cemeteries. I know, not something you like to announce on the wide web. But I do. Not the newer, shinier cemeteries, the really old ones that have crumbly tombstones and trees.


This definitely predates my vampire-werewolf fantasy novel obsession or my True Blood addiction.

Until a few weeks ago, it was just a weird thought as I'd glance by cemeteries as we walked or drove past. Walking around alone was really beyond my comfort zone. One weekend I managed to convince Andrew to humour me as we toured through one of Halifax's 200-300 year old cemetery on Barrington Street. It wasn't unquestioned though and I found myself having to articulate just how 'uncreepy' my reasons for liking these old crumbly cemeteries were.


I love walking through and feeling like there is a piece of history surrounding me. Seeing the names and dates of people who lived hundreds of years ago. Their families and grandchildren most likely passed along to the next life with no one to visit or to remember them.

The older the tombstone, the more beautiful the hand-carved artwork that graces the front. These tombstones that we erect in order to be remembered in a few short hundred years crumble and the names wear away. It reminds me just how temporary my existence will be. No matter my ability to erect a large, expensive stone shrine to my life in a few short generations you won't even be able to read my name. This element of humanness makes my impermanence that much more real than an old building or statue.


These older cemeteries are quiet, usually on uneven ground with trees and shrubbery. It feels hidden and peaceful. Like a secret sanctuary in the middle of a bustling, noisy, smelly city. Combined with a feeling of insignificance I have moments of reflection. Of re-evaluating what is stressing me out lately, as it no longer seems that catastrophic. If people wouldn't have me committed, I would love to practice yoga in a history cemetery. But they'd probably call a padded vehicle...


This video was filmed in Halifax by local artists. I love her voice, the art and her poetry. Weirdly enough it exactly inhibits the feeling I get in an old, beautiful cemetery. Maybe you don't share this connection, but I hope you enjoy the video... because sometimes we all need to just *be*. Without external distraction. Just with ourselves.


Many Blessings!


article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

 

Exploring other towns & their Yoga; Complete with a Secret Garden

This week I had the opportunity to travel down to Wolfville Nova Scotia for work. Although 'parachuting' my services to another clinic can be hectic, there is also lots of fun in checking out a new town... and it's yoga studio!

Wolfville truly is special. Above all the regular Nova Scotia greenness (recycling and composting in every single establishment, including my B&B), the town is a member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities-Partners for Climate Protection Program. This means that over five milestones (the first being a greenhouse gas emissions inventory) the town of Wolfville has committed to reducing it's carbon footprint, regardless of provincial goals. 

This town is tiny, but filled with big ideas and creativity. Signs decorated eco-friendly yards asking us to 'Save our Farms' and most houses had wildly growing gardens and flowers. People bring their own mugs here and garbage bags are all clear in order to assure proper recycling and composting.

Despite it being a tiny town, I had no troubles at all finding yoga. The Inner Sun Yoga Centre is a cute studio with beautiful flooring, cork and wooden yoga blocks, jade yoga mats and wonderful teachers. What I love about visiting other non-Haligonian yoga studios is the open and friendly feel. I may be jaded, but sadly Halifax is much more yoga-competitive and less about just practicing yoga.

The class was taught by an open, friendly former Aussie and was very different from anything I had done before. It was filled with all levels of students from all walks of life. Not everyone was decked out in Lulu and the teacher wasn't there to 'sell' her studio or products. She taught Vira I (Warrior I) much differently with a very short stance. I left that class feeling fantastic.

On my walk home with the sun setting over the Minas Basin, I could see all the beautiful, wildly tangled gardens. It was almost as if the author of 'The Secret Garden' had spent her childhood in Wolfville. I wouldn't have been surprised if faeries were hiding behind a giant mushroom or jungle of wildflower stems.

This weekend I'll be bringing my yoga mat to my parents cottage so we can practice on the dock, overlooking the lake. I cannot wait.

Blessings


article copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com

Yoga and the Soul Sucking of Environmental Activism

 Our evening spontaneous bike ride to Yoga in the Park tonight... even though it was humidex of 35 degrees... Andrew is a good sport :)

 

Yoga... connection and spirit. I've mentioned in passing how Yoga is a way for me to connect with my belief in the Divine Goddess. A commenter once asked me how I do that... or why or something. It's just like moving prayer. Seane Corn speaks about how her yoga practice is like praying with movement. During my practice I connect with myself, my surroundings, my Earth and my Goddess. I dedicate each movement with awareness to Her. 

My new 'zoya' eco-friendly yogi toes... and the sail boats :)

 

Maybe that's a bit weird... but I have a funny feeling lots of yogi(ni)s begin purely physical and with time connect with their inner selves which in turns transforms their practice into something a bit more spiritual.

what downward dog looked like tonight... although it was upside down for me

 

Being an environmentalist, or Planet Addict, kinda goes against all the yogic connection in a sense. There is a lot to be worried-angry-upset-sad about lately when it comes to the health of our Mother Earth. What Ted Grand mentioned last week, about feeling like being an activist was eating away at his soul (or something like that) and how Yoga helped focus his energies in a positive manner... that resonated with me. And it didn't.


I think it's a fine balance to let go of what moves us to make change. 


And fellow Yogi(ni)s, we are in need of a change. It is Time. Ya know? The pictures of the oil gushing for miles and miles in our precious ocean, the ridiculous amounts of plastic being dumped into landfills to languish *forever*, the chemicals we expose ourselves and our children that cause cancer, developmental disorders and health risks, genetically manipulating our food, peak oil.... ok I could go on.

on the ride home... self bicycling shadow

So ya, I'm not really a fan of directing my 'love' vibes as a way to direct my eco-energy. I believe that change happens through action, through some sort of activism, through strong energy and motivated passionate people. 

However.


So much negative energy truly *is* soul-sucking (kinda like Eric on True Blood... sigh... oh Eric...). It's extremely important not to let yourself become a cynical, burned out ecoyogi(ni)... you've heard them around 'I've been fighting climate change forever...' or 'those capitalist b*%st#rds will never change!'.... etc.

The train getting in our way...

 

We need hope, we need passion and we need love... all while keeping up the good fight.  Which is why I shy away from posting really down posts, like how the oil spill is spewing out of control, or how our use of gas-burning transportation is eating up our air, or how our addiction to consumption is trashing our planet. You'd have to live in a hole to not be cognizant that our actions are basically 'shitting where we live'. You know that. 

We just need to take a step back and realize that maybe it's time to do the difficult changes. Not just replace our cleaning supplies with vinegar and water, or buy eco-friendly beauty products, or switch to CFL lightbulbs. The Big Stuff. Like decrease our driving and walk-bike more. Decrease our plastic consumption and shop at the farmer's market (or CSA). Buy Less Stuff. Seriously. Invest in renewable energy to power your home. Ya know. Hard stuff.


Letting go of material wants and my external self does not mean disconnecting from what makes our world beautiful. My inner Light connects with the Light of the Sacred Earth... which forces me to recognize how each of our actions will influence the whole.

There are ways to be Eco-Warriors (Eco-Vira's) without exploding into fiery phoenix's of negative energy. We simply need to find that path.


You with me? :)


article and photographs copyright of EcoYogini at ecoyogini.blogspot.com