tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44653774331256918582024-02-18T18:29:38.559-08:00YogaMaendyYogaMaendy is a Bikram Yoga student and is the resident Yoga Guru at www.YogaDirect.comYogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-29206789971759527202010-03-10T09:50:00.000-08:002010-03-10T10:16:32.401-08:00My Year of Bikram Yoga Ends in June, But...I am going to admit, though Bikram Yoga is my favorite, signing up for a year of classes has kind of paid a toll on my practice. Since signing up for a year's worth of classes <a href="http://yogamaendy.blogspot.com/2009/06/i-signed-up-for-year-of-bikram-yoga.html" target="_blank">last June</a>, I have devoted MUCH of my time to practicing only Bikram Yoga. <br /><br />I tried to get to class at least 3 times a week, mostly to justify the fact that a large sum of money was debiting from my bank account every month to pay for my practice. While I do love the class, I found myself getting bored. Though the routine was something I originally embraced when I signed up for the year's worth of classes, I feel as though I have neglected the millions of other postures I could have been practicing all year round that don't involve Bikram Yoga. <br /><br />For instance, my good friend <a href="http://amymerli.com/" target="_blank">Amy</a>, is now killer at headstands. She gets to practice inverted postures whenever she goes to class. I would like to learn some awesome inverted postures as well, but because my money has been tied into the Bikram studio, I haven't been able to take any other classes. I am pretty good at doing the same, sweaty 26 postures. But is that enough? Not for me. <br /><br />My last class isn't until May, but I am looking forward to being FREE to take whatever classes I want :) Though I did learn lots of discipline and structure through practicing the same 26 postures over and over again, I don't recommend anyone signing up for just a year of Bikram Yoga. Taking it month by month, or even class by class is probably your best bet. Not every day is a Bikram Yoga day, you know? :)<br /><br />Anyways, BIG changed have been going on at <a href="http://www.YogaDirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect.com</a>. We just completed an entire redesign of the site, and have focused more on wholesale Yoga props. Hurray for Yoga Studios! :) Regular Yogis can still purchase the same great Yoga equipment on our site, but we now require a $50.00 minimum for each purchase...which still isn't bad, considering our prices are still the lowest around!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-41019241471157697572010-03-02T07:24:00.000-08:002010-03-02T07:45:52.408-08:00Pole Dancing for FitnessAt <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect.com</a>, sometimes we have to dive in face first into new trends to continue offering you guys the most innovative yoga, pilates, & fitness equipment possible.<br /><br />Recently I have been taking Pole Fitness Classes, the latest new trend in fitness, to see what it was all about. I have to say that after taking 2 classes, I am VERY impressed! Achieving the amount of strength, beauty, and technique required in the class is very challenging. I found it to be not only a way to get your entire body conditioned, but it is also a class that gets your out of your "safe" zone...more about that later :)<br /><br />Since Pole Classes are fairly new to the fitness world, it is very important that you find an instructor that is properly certified. The first class I went to was taught by a random pole dancer, and I feel that she didn't stretch us out properly and condition the class enough to prepare us for the class, and my arms were painfully sore for about a week after!<br /><br />I took my second Pole Fitness Class last night at the <a href="http://www.fullermovement.com" target="_blank">Fuller Movement Center</a>, and the teacher this time was a Certified Pole Dancing Instructor. It was an intro class, so it was packed with about 15 of us newbies. <br /><br />If you think Pole Fitness is just a bunch of twirls and flips on a pole, you will be quite surprised at the intense warm-up we were given. Not only did we stretch and strengthen for about a half hour to warm up our arms, abdominal muscles, and booties (haha), but we were led to do the exercises in a sensual manner. Cue the embarrassing giggles! Luckily the instructor was there to remind us, "Hey, no one else is allowed to touch your body except you...so do it."<br /><br />The last part of the class had us paired up at each pole where we learned just how much strength is needed to hold your own body weight up when you are on the pole. Looks like I need to do more handstands in Yoga to get my arm strength up! The class ended with the instructor & her assistant showing us a demo of what you would learn if you signed up for the class. These were some STRONG women!<br /><br />When I got back home, I looked on YouTube to see some more Pole Dancing tricks and found this amazing video of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlJOzhfkh_g" target="_blank">Miss Pole Dance Australia</a>. <br /><br />Anyone ready to teach a Yoga on the Pole Class? I'm there!<br /><center><object width="500" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qlJOzhfkh_g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qlJOzhfkh_g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xe1600f&color2=0xfebd01&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="350" height="250"></embed></object></center>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-7921522283769841432010-02-23T06:54:00.000-08:002010-02-23T07:01:11.458-08:00Yoga in the Olympics?As you guys know, I am a big Bikram Yoga fan...but I recently read an article on <a href="http://www.ireport.com/docs/DOC-410937?hpt=C2" target="_blank">CNN.com</a> about how Bikram Choudry (the fine lad who "created" Bikram Yoga), is pushing to get make Yoga to be a part of the Olympics!<br /><br />Now, I am not too sure how I feel about this. I know that if Yoga was in the Olympics, I would be glued to the TV - I like watching incredible bendiness as much as the next person. But as far as the competitiveness goes, I don't agree with it. Perhaps instead of calling it Yoga, they should call it "Competitive Contortion" or "Extreme Gymnastics" or something like that. Just the postures without anything else, to me, is not Yoga.<br /><br />What do you think?YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-36078528157304208602010-02-09T10:53:00.000-08:002010-02-09T11:00:32.190-08:00Should You Practice Yoga When You are Sick?One of my friends on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/yogadirect" target=_blank">Facebook</a> asked me a very good question the other day: Should you exercise when you are sick?<br /><br />I posted the question on my account to see if anyone else had any ideas & got some good responses:<br /><br /><i>"No cardio if its upper respiratory crud and no heavy lifting if you've got a fever, but, regardless of what you've got, a slow restorative yoga practice may feel relaxing, healing, and calming. :)"</i><br /><b>-Joanne C.</b><br /><br /><i>"Doesn't it depend? A good sweat can help release what is in your body and especially help with congestion. Not a good idea if symptoms include fever or weakness. Also depends on exercise. Swimming, yoga, tai chai I think would all be ok if just a little under the weather. Curious to see what other and the experts say."</i><br /><b>-Alicia M. A.</b><br /><br />I know that in Bikram class if I have a runny or stuffed nose, I cannot breathe in certain postures, but I think that if i was REALLY sick, not only would I want to stay home to rest, but I wouldn't want to pass on my germs to others in class.<br /><br />What are your thoughts about practicing Yoga when you are sick?YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-62507211338128678502010-02-01T09:22:00.000-08:002010-02-01T09:28:49.477-08:00Dreams About Being Scared...I usually can't remember my dreams, but this morning I remembered every detail of the dream I had last night, and I am wondering if it was one of those dreams I am supposed to ponder about.<br /><br />I was at this place where you and your friends would ride in this flume-type water ride, but it was more complex than a regular flume ride because it had all sorts of buttons & knobs as if it was some sort of aircraft carrier. And the flume was on top of this HUGE hill.<br /><br />I had gone down the flume a few times with friends, as some of them sat up to 3 people at a time, but I had never taken on the controls and let the other people in my craft decide the speed, settings, etc. of the ride.<br /><br />However, this last time, the conductor chose me to go in a single rider. I looked at him and said, "No, I don't think I am ready to go alone. I need one more time down with friends. There are too many controls and I feel overwhelmed."<br /><br />The conductor looked at me and said, "No, there's no time," and scooped me up to fasten me in the one seated ride. I looked down the hill at the trail I was about to face...and woke up.<br /><br />While I will never know how I made it down that hill, I do remember feeling extreme anxiety in my dream! I wonder if it's a metaphor for something going on in my life right now. Perhaps I am letting other take over my life...am I living on co-pilot? What a crazy way to start the week!<br /><br />Have any of you had any prophetic dreams like that? Or can you shed some light on my dream if you know what it could mean? Thanks!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-10792603128184426052010-01-26T08:04:00.000-08:002010-01-26T08:25:13.265-08:00I Am Pretending National Yoga Day is Every Day!National Yoga Day was this past Saturday (January 23rd), and Nathan and I spent it outdoors at Bantam Lake in Connecticut. It was such a beautiful day out and the ice was over a foot deep, so we did some Yoga (and some crazy jumps) right on the lake! <br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/ice1.jpg" alt="Dancer on the ice" /><br />Here's My Ice Dancer Pose</center><br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/ice2.jpg" alt="Nathan attempting a handstand on ice" /><br />Nathan attempting a handstand on the ice</center><br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/ice3.jpg" alt="Ice Jumping!" /><br />Don't worry, we had spikes on our boots!</center><br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/ice4.jpg" alt="Nate jumping on ice" /><br />Nate's jump!</center><br /><br />We had so much fun in the sunshine that we ended up with sunburns on our faces! We ended up going back out on the ice at Highland Lake in Winsted the next day, but it wasn't as beautiful as the day before. In fact, it started drizzling a little, but we stayed out anyways because we were equipped with some heavy duty snow/rain gear :)YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-14475241627152723962010-01-19T11:26:00.000-08:002010-01-19T12:26:02.295-08:00Huge Blowout Sale at YogaDirect.comIf you are looking to by a new <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats.html" target="_blank">Yoga Mat</a>, <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_balls.html" target="_blank">Yoga Ball</a>, <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_straps.html" target="_blank">Yoga Straps</a>, etc. for your either your home practice or Yoga Studio, now is the time! <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect.com</a> has slashed the prices on a bunch of their great high-quality Yoga and <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/pilates.html" target="_blank">Pilates equipment</a> to make more room for new stuff! <br /><br />Here's a list of the items on sale - make sure you grab them while they last!<br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_strapPB10.html" target="_blank">Pink 10' Yoga Straps with Plastic Buckles</a><br />Original Price $5.62<br />ON SALE: $1.64</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_strapPB10.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/yoga-strap-plastic-buckle.jpg" alt="Pink 10ft Yoga Strap - On Sale for $1.64" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_strapD10.html" target="_blank">Black 10' Yoga Straps with D-Rings</a><br />Original Price $7.45<br />ON SALE: $2.33</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_strapD10.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/yoga-strap-metal-buckle.jpg" alt="Black 10ft Yoga Strap - On Sale for $2.33" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_blocks_round.html" target="_blank">Blue Round Foam Yoga Block</a><br />Original Price $10.88<br />ON SALE: $2.79</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_blocks_round.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/round-foam-yoga-block.jpg" alt="Round Foam Yoga Block - On Sale for $2.79" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats14.html" target="_blank">Light Pink 1/4" Thick Yoga Mat</a><br />Original Price $16.36<br />ON SALE: $4.22</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats14.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/pink-yoga-mat.jpg" alt="Light Pink 1/4in Thick Yoga Mat - On Sale for $4.22" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats14.html" target="_blank">Orange 1/4" Thick Yoga Mat w/Rounded Corners</a><br />Original Price $17.36<br />ON SALE: $4.84</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats14.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/orange-yoga-mat.jpg" alt="Orange 1/4in Thick Yoga Mat w/Rounded Corners - On Sale for $4.22" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_wide.html" target="_blank">Purple 1/4" Thick Extra Wide Yoga Mat</a><br />Original Price $18.89<br />ON SALE: $10.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_wide.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/purple-xtra-wide-yoga-mat.jpg" alt="Purple 1/4in Thick Extra Wide Yoga Mat - On Sale for $10.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_air.html" target="_blank">Light Blue Air Yoga Mat</a><br />Original Price $49.99<br />ON SALE: $20.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_air.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/air-yoga-mat.jpg" alt="Light Blue Air Yoga Mat - On Sale for $20.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_cotton.html" target="_blank">Light Green Arama Cotton Yoga Mat</a><br />Original Price $69.99<br />ON SALE: $20.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_cotton.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/arama-cotton-yoga-mat.jpg" alt="Light Green Arama Cotton Yoga Mat - On Sale for $20.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_micro.html" target="_blank">Arama Micro-Fiber Yoga Mats in Blue and Purple</a><br />Original Price $69.99<br />ON SALE: $20.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_micro.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/arama-micro-fiber-yoga-mats.jpg" alt="Arama Micro-Fiber Yoga Mats in Blue and Purple - On Sale for $20.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball75.html" target="_blank">Pink, Red, & Yellow 75cm Yoga Balls</a><br />Original Price $15.72<br />ON SALE: $5.27</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball75.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/75cm-yoga-balls.jpg" alt="Pink, Red, & Yellow 75cm Yoga Balls - On Sale for $5.27" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball85.html" target="_blank">Pink 85cm Yoga Balls</a><br />Original Price $17.16<br />ON SALE: $5.95</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball85.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/pink-85cm-yoga-ball.jpg" alt="Pink 85cm Yoga Balls - On Sale for $5.95" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball_antiburst.html" target="_blank">Green Anti-Burst Slow Leak 75cm Yoga Ball</a><br />Original Price $16.88<br />ON SALE: $6.61</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_ball_antiburst.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/green-anti-burst-yoga-ball.jpg" alt="Green Anti-Burst Slow Leak 75cm Yoga Ball - On Sale for $6.61" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_dome.html" target="_blank">Dome Yoga Balls with or without Straps</a><br />Original Price $59.99<br />ON SALE: $20.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_dome.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/dome-yoga-ball-with-strap.jpg" alt="Dome Yoga Balls with or without Straps - On Sale for $20.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/pilates_ring_lrg.html" target="_blank">Large Pilates Toning Ring</a><br />Original Price $18.13<br />ON SALE: $5.66</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/pilates_ring_lrg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/large-pilates-toning-ring.jpg" alt="Large Pilates Toning Ring - On Sale for $5.66" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_silkrug.html" target="_blank">Handmade 100% Silk 4' x 6' Yoga Rugs</a><br />Original Price $49.88<br />ON SALE: $10.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_silkrug.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/silk-yoga-rug.jpg" alt="Handmade 100% Silk 4' x 6' Yoga Rugs - On Sale for $10.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_blanket_cotton.html" target="_blank">Black 100% Cotton Handmade Yoga Blankets</a><br />Original Price $24.98<br />ON SALE: $10.00</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_blanket_cotton.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/black-cotton-yoga-blanket.jpg" alt="Black 100% Cotton Handmade Yoga Blankets - On Sale for $10.00" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matroll18.html" target="_blank">Red 1/8" Thick Yoga Mat Rolls</a><br />Original Price $129.88<br />ON SALE: $65.46</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matroll18.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/red-1-8in-yoga-mat-rolls.jpg" alt="Red 1/8in Thick Yoga Mat Rolls - On Sale for $65.46" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><b><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matroll14.html" target="_blank">Red and Coral 1/4" Thick Yoga Mat Rolls</a><br />Original Price $139.88<br />ON SALE: $71.98</b><br /><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matroll14.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories/sale/1-4in-yoga-mat-rolls.jpg" alt="Red and Coral 1/4in Thick Yoga Mat Rolls - On Sale for $71.98" border="0" /></a></center>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-68223788978872613862010-01-07T18:16:00.001-08:002010-01-07T18:45:24.463-08:00"I've Never Been to a Class Where You Couldn't Make Noise."In the beginning of the year there's always a lot of newbies in yoga class - which is awesome! The past 3 days I have gone to <a href="http://www.bikramyogafarmington.com" target="_blank">Bikram Yoga Farmington</a> there's been so many new faces in class. And with that being said there's been a LOT of new noises in class!<br /><br />Yesterday's noises were more tolerable. The newbies were all respectful of the class and enthusiastically attempted every posture. No one left the room, and when they felt dizzy, they sat down or rested in Savasana. Sure, there was a snorer and a squeaker during the breathing exercise, but that was fine :)<br /><br />Today, however, was a different story. There were many new students scattered amongst the classroom, and a crew that were buddies were situated behind me. I know I am supposed to just focus on my own practice during class, but when people start cracking up constantly behind me, it is a little harder to stay focused. <br /><br />I am not sure why they were giggling, but it happened many times, and one woman even left the room because she couldn't contain herself anymore. I felt bad for the instructor who tried over and over to remind people to be quiet in class. While humor is something I enjoy in class, these new students were just being disrespectful.<br /><br />On the other end of the room, another new student, who had her hair down and played with it the whole class, was constantly making loud straining noises during every posture. I know the class is probably the hardest thing some people will ever do in their lives, but she should have listened to the instructor when he told everyone that the battle is all in your mind. You body is capable of doing everything in class - it's your mind hat makes you believe you can't.<br /><br />I could tell this woman completely hated the class. Even worse was when it was all finished and we were in the lobby putting our shoes on, this woman decided she would mock us all before she made her grand exit by exclaiming loudly, "I have never been to a class where you couldn't make any noise." Then she slipped out the door, never to return.<br /><br />If it is your first time going to ANY class, you should go with an open mind. If these new people had questions, that is why the instructor is there. I know for myself, I enjoy Bikram Yoga so much because of the discipline. I love when the whole class is flowing with energy and it drives me. When everyone focuses and tries as hard as they can it is amazingly energizing. It is my sanctuary!<br /><br />I hope I don't sound like too much of a Bikram Yoga snob by posting this blog. It upset me that this woman had such a bad time in class. But then again, as I stated before, Bikram Yoga isn't for everyone. Hopefully she will find her niche.<br /><br />With that said, I need to continue focusing on my own practice :)YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-65759457580496961992010-01-05T10:50:00.001-08:002010-01-05T10:57:11.153-08:00Stop Trying to Make Pretty Shapes in the Mirror"That's not Yoga - that's Modern Dance!"<br /><br />In class last night, while instructing the class how to properly execute Garudasana (Eagle Pose), the teacher told us to stop trying to make pretty shapes in the mirror. This statement really struck me. Because of my background as a modern dancer, am I doomed to continue trying to make pretty shapes in the mirror?<br /><br />I would like to think that I am more aware of my body alignment when I am in certain postures because I am a dancer, but how can I snap out dance mode and into yoga mode? Do I rely too much on the mirror and not enough on what is going on inside me? Maybe if I quit thinking of how I will look in the mirror, I will finally be able to do both sets of Triangle pose without dying. <br /><br />I am going to try thinking about this in class tonight. Any other dancer yogis out there noticing something similar?YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-63176492559973639412010-01-04T10:25:00.000-08:002010-01-05T05:39:27.595-08:00Congrats to BlackBird Yoga - Best Yoga Studio of 2009!Happy New Year! I am pleased to announce the winner of our Best Yoga Studio of 2009 contest - <a href="http://www.blackbirdyoga.com/" target="_blank">Blackbird Yoga</a>!<br /><br />The contest was open to all Yoga studios in the United States and the last day for submission was December 18th, 2009. Winners received a $25.00 Gift Certificate to <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect.com</a> and a year's supply of <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mat_cleaners.html" target="_blank">Charter Oak Yoga Mat Cleaner</a> from YogaDirect. <br /><br />When I first started receiving nominations for Blackbird Yoga, I was surprised to discover they were in Georgetown, Connecticut! Though I had never heard of either the town or the studio, so many nominations arrived in my inbox for Blackbird Yoga, I had to take notice! The students at Blackbird Yoga were passionate enough to overwhelmingly nominate their studio to our contest, so this studio MUST be something special!<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.blackbirdyoga.com/"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/bird2.jpg" alt="Blackbird Yoga" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br />Read this blurb about the studio from Blackbird Yoga's website:<br /><br /><i>Blackbird Yoga is a progressive yoga studio in Georgetown, Connecticut for all people with a non-competitive and encouraging atmosphere. Our teachers are well trained professionals who love what they do and thrive on your success. Our 1500 sq. ft. sun drenched studio and impeccable decor is a sanctuary to those looking to de-stress, exercise and improve their overall well-being.</i><br /><br />According to their website, Blackbird Yoga was founded in 2009 by Linda Colletta, a gymnast, runner, and Yogi. The studio offers TONS of daily classes including Flow, Foundation, Anusara, Yin, and even special classes for children, teens, and families. In addition to Yoga classes, the studio also has Massage Therapy, Life Coaching, and Thai Bodywork available. Every Sunday, the studio even offers a free Yoga class, intended to attract beginners. <br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.blackbirdyoga.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/bird1.jpg" alt="Blackbird Yoga" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br />The studio's website is absolutely gorgeous (<a href="http://www.blackbirdyoga.com/" target="_blank">check it out</a>!). Blackbird Yoga also has a great <a href="http://blackbirdyoga.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blog</a>, and is very active on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/people/Blackbird-Yoga/1813922253" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://twitter.com/blackbirdyoga" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. Though the studio is on the other side of Connecticut, I plan on making a trip down there to check it out! Until then, congratulations Blackbird Yoga! Here's to an even better 2010!<br /><br /><br />Honorable mention goes to <a href="http://www.yahwehyoga.com/" target="_blank">Yahweh Yoga Christian Yoga Teaching Academy</a>, who also received a substantial amount of nominations. Congratulations to all who entered!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-57515740717949571452009-12-29T06:03:00.000-08:002009-12-29T06:27:55.672-08:00Looking Back at 2009 and Ahead to 2010I hope everyone had a great holiday! As we are winding down the end of 2009, it's time for me to reflect on the things that happened throughout the year and make a new plan of attack for the next. <br /><br />This year was really hard for me because I had to stop dancing because of the cysts in my ankle. It has been a really rough time mentally for me since I love dancing so much, but going to yoga has helped me at least stay in shape while I cannot dance. Come to think of it, yoga has also helped me grow in many other ways. I have learned so much about my body and breathing because I have been going to yoga. When I do finally get back to dance class, I feel like I know a lot more about balance and the way my muscles work. I guess sometimes things happen for a reason? Maybe my body was telling me to slow down and pay more attention to it? I went from rehearsing 3-4 times a week, and traveling and performing on weekends, to just yoga. 2009 was my "slow down" year I guess.<br /><br />In the new year, I plan on trying many other types of Yoga. I am signed up for a year of Bikram, and while it has helped me get flexibility back into my ankle, I feel like I need a more well-rounded type of yoga in 2010. I need to work my arms more and challenge myself with postures I have never tried before. My new favorite studio, <a href="http://www.samadhiyogastudio.com/" target="_blank">Samadhi Yoga Studio</a> will be seeing a lot more of me in 2010!<br /><br />Since I can't take ballet or modern dance classes anymore because my left foot won't point, I have decided I am going to take break-dancing classes! I figure since I can't dance on my feet anymore, it is time to dance on my hands. Plus, I figure break-dancing is probably a lot like Yoga, with all the hand-balancing freezes and all...but I will keep you posted on that, he he he. I am a dancer at heart, what can I say? :)<br /><br />Another major thing I need to work on in 2010 is ROAD RAGE! I never had it before this past year, but for some reason I developed this need to yell at other cars when I drive. It's really doing a number on me and I feel like I have anxiety every time I get into my car. I need to learn to breathe more when I drive, and to not go driving around thinking I am the best driver in the world anymore! I also need to stop taking things so personally when I am driving. Not everyone is out to smash into me...at least I hope not!<br /><br />All in all, I am looking forward to 2010! It's always nice to feel like you have a nice clean slate to work with. What are some of the things you are looking forward to?YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-37774079837105383632009-12-16T06:11:00.001-08:002009-12-16T06:39:13.057-08:00He Made it Through His First Yoga Class!Last night, Nathan had his first Yoga class! We took an Open Level class at <a href="http://www.samadhiyogastudio.com/" target="_blank">Samadhi Yoga Studios</a> in Manchester, CT. <br /><br />It was the perfect class for a beginner. The temperature in the room was up a little, but not so much it was like a Bikram of Power Yoga class. And we both knew Nick, the Instructor, so it made Nate feel more comfortable :) Nate has also been hearing me throw around terms like "Downward Dog" and "Savasana" for almost two years now, so he was familiar with some of the postures already, although he admitted later he was watching me the whole time. <br /><br />After class, we went to a Mexican Restaurant, and I asked him a few questions about how he liked the class. Here's what he had to say:<br /><br /><i>What was the hardest part of class?</i><br /><b>The hardest part of class was breathing normally.</b> <br /><br /><i>Did you find that not being flexible kept you from doing anything in class?</i><br /><b>Nope.</b><br /><br /><i>What was your favorite part of class?</i><br /><b>The ab work.</b><br /><br /><i>What was your least favorite part of the class?</i><br /><b>*he paused and thought for almost 2 minutes...then we moved on*</b><br /><br />All in all, Nate said Yoga had met his expectations and he will definitely be back...if Nick is the teacher :) Maybe once he takes a few more classes, he will be brave enough to try *gasp* a DIFFERENT teacher, but until then, we are planning on taking Nick's Hot Power Class next!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-62541390475029310942009-12-15T06:08:00.000-08:002009-12-15T09:13:08.379-08:00Beginner Yogis - and Saying No to Holiday Stress!I finally convinced my other half that going to a Yoga class would give his aching muscles a stretch. He is always sore when he comes home from work, and since we are both heading toward our *gasp* 30's, we are starting to notice our bodies becoming ornery with us every so often. After having him read my last blog post (<a href="http://yogamaendy.blogspot.com/2009/12/i-am-not-flexible-enough-for-yoga.html" target="_blank">I Am Not Flexible Enough for Yoga</a>), he has decided to finally go to a Yoga Class and see what it is all about.<br /><br />Tonight he will be joining me in an Open Level Class at <a href="http://www.samadhiyogastudio.com/" target="_blank">Samadhi Yoga Studio</a> in Manchester, CT. I will keep you posted on how the class goes!<br /><br />I have also been cleaning my apartment like a mad woman to prepare for the Yoga Party I am having on Thursday. A bunch of friends and friends of friends will be over our place for a Yoga Class! Some of our guests have never taken Yoga before either, so it should be a fun time! We are going to lay down Yoga Mat remnants from <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect</a> all over the floor in our dance room and living-room to accommodate all of the guests! <br /><br />Here's a photo of our tiny Christmas Tree :) I have always had a fake one growing up, but Nate convinced me we should get a real one this year - and it smells so good!<br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/xmastree.jpg" alt="My Christmas Tree" /></center><br /><br />The holiday season can get pretty stressful, and it is sometimes hard to remember how to relax and let things wash over you. I know for myself, things have gotten a little hectic lately. It is important to continue doing things for yourself that make you happy, and remember that this is the season to celebrate each other and give thanks. <br /><br />Here are some of the wonderful suggestions my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/yogadirect" target="_blank">Facebook</a> friends gave when I asked them about some of the ways they relieve stress during the holidays:<br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Do Secret Santa with your family - that way you only have to buy one gift and you can make it really special and unique to that person. Avoids shopping stress :) x</i><br />-Rosanna G.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Pilates, Tai Chi, NLP is also fun</i><br />-Peter C.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Chardonnay. Riding my bike or taking a walk. Playing with the dogs.</i> <br />-Loretta T. W.</b></font><br /><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Become Grinch</i><br />-Sandra L. P.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>Loretta is right biking is great, and also check out Bach <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jEXDPzqo2g" target="_blank">Sheep May Safely Graze</a>, also <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EC1E4_imS0A" target="_blank">Brandenberg Concerto</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-hJf4ZffkoI" target="_blank">Mozart 40th Symphony</a> strong hard driving and positive, full of life force energy! Always reminds me of horses racing down a country road.</i><br />-Dave D.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Sangria</i><br />-Stephanie M J.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>There is a Korean martial art breathing exercise called Neh Gung. I start my mornings at the office doing at least 2 different versions for about 10 minutes. I find it keeps me better centered.</i><br />-Wayne B.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Take a candlelight bubble bath with instrumental music and a good book.</i><br />-Jessaca G.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>Well, if you can just HIDE, that would be your best bet. but if you MUST, wine works well also. And if you can hide and drink wine, you will have the best holidays EVER! LOL</i><br />-Shelly T.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Walks at night with my dog through my neighborhood and enjoying the Christmas decorations. It reminds me of the magic feeling the holiday gave me as a child and I love the cold weather.</i> <br />-Cathy R.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>A good 5-10 mile run, nothing clears my head and gets me high like that!</i><br />-Kate M. S.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Take time to breathe deeply and remember and focus on the symbols and myths behind the season, both in the pre-Christian, returning of the light and Sacred Earth concepts and in the original Christmas message of the enlightened Christ consciousness, peace, compassion and good will to other members of the human family.</i><br />-Lisa M.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>Knitting...books on cd..,:-)</i> <br />-Bee Kind</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Learning, living and practicing the word "no" and being okay with it!</i><br />-Deb G. P.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Naps!!!</i> <br />-Angela M.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Go for a tattoo!</i> <br />-Gabor W.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>17 comments and no one mentioned... *ahem* ...intimacy?</i><br />-Jarrod H.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Go with the flow.</i><br />-Stan D.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Drink lots of water, try to take time for yourself for at least an hour a day around troubling family patterns, do yoga even if you don't want to, and do your best to be nice and feel grateful even if you don't want to.<br />It could be worse. Practice random acts of kindness!</i><br />-Brian C.</b></font><br /><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>I think the best thing is to not stray from your typical healthy habits; regular workouts and light, healthy eating. it'll not only manage the stress, but will also help curb the sugar cravings and prevent butt-load. and lots of laughs with people you really like! :)</i><br />-Joanne C.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>Beginning the day with a warm Abhyanga (self-massage) is my favorite all time stress buster.</i><br />-Jackie P.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Hot baths...spending time with people you love and who love you back, cookies :o) Wine :o) Breathing nice and deep :o)</i><br />-Sarah S.</b></font><br /><br /><br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>Sex =)</i><br />-Rachel G. S.</b></font>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-70096394235219556332009-12-07T08:40:00.000-08:002009-12-07T09:25:56.100-08:00I Am Not Flexible Enough For YogaI have been trying to get one of my good friends to take a Yoga class. She is always complaining she hates going to the gym, and how being slumped at her computer desk all day has ruined her posture. I have been telling her that Yoga may be the answer for her, but in reply, my friend INSISTS she would not be good at Yoga because she isn't flexible enough.<br /><br />After battling her back and forth by telling her that is the exact reason why she SHOULD try Yoga, she was still shying away from my suggestions. So, I decided to ask my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/yogadirect" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/yogadirect" target="_blank">Twitter</a> friends what they would tell someone when they say they aren't flexible enough for yoga.<br /><br />I received so many responses from my question that I decided to share them in my blog. Perhaps they will help others who have the same excuse for not trying yoga. Oh, and after my friend read all these great responses and suggestions, she DID finally decide to try yoga for the first time...and wouldn't you know, she LOVED it! She hasn't been to another class since then, but hopefully the seed has been planted hehehe.<br /><br /><b>What Do You Say to Someone Who Says, <br />"I Am Not Flexible Enough for Yoga"?</b><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>That's why you do yoga</i><br />-Jolie C.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Yoga isn't about how bendy you can be. It's about being conscious of your body and self awareness!</i><br />-Tess D.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>I think I'd say what one of my wise teachers told me, that 'Its not about touching your toes, but about what you learn about yourself on the way down.' :)</i><br />-Joanne C.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990073"><b><i>I am in the same boat, because sadly I am about as flexible as firewood. :( Tell the person to start out by taking a couple one on one or privates for the personal attention. After two or three privates with a good teacher, they'll have given you the tools to START loosening up. Once you start to see things happening you can gain your own momentum from there. I hope that makes sense.</i><br />-Gabor W.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>That if you can have intercourse you are flexible enough for yoga? grin~</i><br />-Kryssie L.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Yoga can help you become flexible as well as build strength, stamina and stability.</i><br />-Yoga Sessions</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>That's like saying that you can't go grocery shopping because you don't have anything in your cupboards. Flexibility is a product of yoga, not a prerequisite.</i> <br />-Kellie C.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>It's your mind that's not flexible</i><br />-Sandra L.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>I say: Then you're expecting too much! Change your expectation, and then you're literally flexible!</i><br />-Jessaca G.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>When people say this or "Well i would do yoga but i need more than a stretch session to exercise", I die a little inside. I am working on an article entitled "The myth of Flexibility & Yoga" for my blog right now!!</i><br />-Nicole B.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>I get this sooo much! I always say that yoga isn't about putting your foot behind your head. It's ultimately about awareness. It's a path to learning patience, discipline, happiness.. It's the way it makes you feel. It's a way of life! (Then they look around uncomfortably and think I'm crazy, but regardless, it leaves them wondering!)</i><br />-Jennifer F.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>That is like saying your teeth are too dirty to be brushed.".....no i don't really say that. I would love to tell them that they are just chicken or that they probably have a ton of excuses for doing things that are good for them. And aren't they tired of their same old excuse- it is so boring to hear about why they cant take care of themselves but these days I just listen and move on to the person who really wants to do yoga-newcomer or experienced. I would much rather share my passion for yoga with someone who is ready for it.</i><br />-Anne F.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Saying "Oh, I can't do yoga, I'm not flexible" is like saying "Oh, I can't have that glass of water, I'm thirsty" or "My hair is too long, I can't get a haircut" or "I'm hungry, I better not eat"....I could go on and on but I think ya'll get the point.</i><br />-Daniel R.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>I say that it is those of us who are the least flexible that benefit the most. I find that it's those parts of the body that are the least open that hold the most information, all the stuff that inquiry minds want to know.</i> <br />-Sonya C.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>It's flexibility of mind, not body</i><br />-Rudy M.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>...you don't have to be flexible, you just can't be uptight!</i><br />-"Anna G.</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>Probably the same thing I tell them when I hear "I'm too old for martial arts".</i><br />-Wayne B.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Yoga is not about how much of a bendy you are, instead it's about being conscience of your own body's capabilities and limitations. Like you said Anna, "you just can't be uptight"! I love it!!!!!</i><br />-Georgina M.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>It's like saying "I cant eat I'm too hungry"</i><br />-Matthew F.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>That's why you have breath.</i><br />-Stephanie J.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>I tell students it's a benefit of yoga, not a requirement.</i></b></font><br />-Jody R.<br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Yoga class is not a place to show off how flexible you are, it is a place to GAIN flexibility.</i><br />-Kat R.</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>I would humbly correct them that They are always flexible for "yoga" its just that their Bodies needs some time to perform some of the "Asnas"!....</i><br />-Yoga Guru Ravisanan</b></font><br /> <br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>That's exactly why they should do yoga</i><br />-@DebsieDoll</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>I tell 'em no such thing... and not a competition</i><br />-@TasteforLife</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#990026"><b><i>Begin them with some pranayama...</i><br />-@kundalinisun</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#730099"><b><i>That ANYONE can find a starting point, even those with physical limits - that Yoga is about progress rather than perfection.</i><br />-@HaanelCollege</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#002EB8"><b><i>I would tell them to use their strength to overcome that limitation. Most people who aren't flexible are strong and vice versa.</i><br />-@SeeLaH</b></font><br /><br /><font color="#260099"><b><i>I swear every studio that has a FAQs page says "The 'not flexible' person is the ideal candidate for it." So how bout that?</i><br />-@yoga_mydrishti</b></font>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-21563963929873357782009-12-01T04:52:00.000-08:002009-12-01T05:50:16.286-08:00Great Holiday Gifts for Yogis of Any AgeI went to my first Bikram Yoga class after the holidays and it absolutely felt great! I feel like I successfully purged my body of the holiday weekend :) <br /><br />It's the holiday season at <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com" target="_blank">YogaDirect.com</a> and we have a TON of new items, and even a great contest to help celebrate the end of a great year. If you have Yogis on your holiday shopping list, here's a few items that make them smile...<br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the new Yogi?</b></h2><br />If you are purchasing a gift for the beginner Yogi, a Yoga Kit will be a great gift for them. Or, if they already own the basics, consider giving them a Yoga Mat bag, like our new black <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/drawstring-yoga-mat-bag.html" target="_blank">Drawstring Yoga Mat Bag</a>, or our beautiful <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matbag_guatemala.html" target="_blank">Guatemalan Yoga Mat Bag.</a> Both are beautiful and roomy, and allow enough space inside for your Yoga Mat, keys, license, and more!<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_matbag_guatemala.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/thumbs/guat.jpg" alt="Guatemalan Yoga Mat Bag from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the Eco-Friendly Yogi?</b></h2><br />Yogis for the environment will love receiving our <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_waterweek.html" target="_blank">Water Week</a> 5-pack of BPA-free water bottles. This great 5 pack of colorful water bottles is a great way to keep them hydrated all week. Because they can re-use the bottles, you will be helping them reduce the over 25 million plastic bottles that are thrown out every day!<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_waterweek.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories_pages/water.jpg" alt="Water Week water Bottles from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br />Eco-friendly Yogis will also love this <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/notacup.html" target="_blank">"I am not a paper cup"</a> Reusable Porcelain Mug for their coffee and tea! It looks just like a regular paper cup, but it's made of porcelain, and it even has a removable silicone lid! <br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/notacup.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/thumbs/notacup.jpg" border="0" alt="I Am Not a Paper Cup Porcelain Mug from YogaDirect.com" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the Homeopathic Yogi?</b></h2><br />This type of Yogi loves naturopathic remedies, and will absolutely adore this <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_neti.html" target="_blank">Ceramic Neti Pot</a> as a holiday gift! Using a Neti Pot daily is very easy and can be incorporated into your friend's morning routine as a great first defense against colds, flu, and seasonal allergies!<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_neti.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories_pages/neti_main.jpg" alt="Ceramic Neti Pot from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the Stylish Yogi?</b></h2><br />For the Yogi who is into fashion, why not buy them a great <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_tshirts.html" target="_blank">Yoga T-Shirt</a> to wear? Our fun Yoga T-Shirts are perfect to wear in or out of class, and are the softest shirts you will ever feel! <br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_tshirts.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/tshirts/warriors_ladies_img.jpg" alt="Yoga T-Shirts from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy a Yogi children?</b></h2><br />Kids absolutely love these fun <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_kids.html" target="_blank">Children's Yoga Mats</a>, designed exclusively for YogaDirect.com! They come in three bright colors and designs and are the perfect tool for getting children excited about Yoga.<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_kids.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/thumbs/kidsmats.jpg" alt="Kids Yoga Mats from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the Bikram or Hot Yoga lover?</b></h2><br />For the Hot Yoga Yogi, I suggest getting them one of our innovative <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_microban.html" target="_blank">Microban Yoga Mats</a>. Microban Yoga Mats feature a Microban® zinc based antimicrobial technology that helps to protect mats against bacteria and fungus that can cause stains and odors! I use mine in Bikarm Yoga all the time & haven't noticed the "sweat" smell on my mat that I used to notice after class! <br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_microban.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/thumbs/microband_img.jpg" alt="Microban Yoga Mat from YogaDirect" border="0" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to give to your Restorative Yogi fan?</b></h2><br />Restorative Yoga is a very relaxing form of Yoga and involves some pretty awesome props! These Yogis would love receiving our bright new <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_blanket_cotton.html" target="_blank">100% Cotton Handmade Yoga Blankets</a> or even our new <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_bolsters_neckpillow.html" target="_blank">Silk Neck Pillows</a>. Not only are these two gifts great for Yoga, they also accent a home beautifully.<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_bolsters_neckpillow.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/thumbs/silkneck.jpg" border="0" alt="Silk Neck Pillows from YogaDirect.com" /></a></center><br /><br /><h2><b>What to buy the Yogi that has EVERYTHING?</b></h2><br />If your giving gifts to Yogis in this category, they have probably been taking Yoga for a long time, and most likely have a vast collection of props at their disposal. However, these beautiful gifts will certainly put a smile on any Yogi's face! Our <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_candles.html" target="_blank">Yoga Posture T-light Candle Holders</a> are perfect for lighting up any room, and make a great addition to any home yoga sanctuary.<br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_candles.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories_pages/candles.jpg" alt="Yoga Posture T-Light Candles from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-46151687817091337572009-11-24T05:51:00.000-08:002009-11-24T05:56:33.492-08:00Giving Thanks to Yoga This ThanksgivingThough we should feel thankful for our gifts all year round, it is nice that we have Thanksgiving every year as a day where everyone in the country devotes to being humble. This year I have been grateful for many things in my life, and on the top of the list is my health. I know that Yoga has played a big role in maintaining my good health, so this Thanksgiving I will be celebrating Yoga! <br /><br />Have a happy and safe holiday, Yogis and Yoginis!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-7571176959299073302009-11-19T06:24:00.000-08:002009-11-19T06:44:38.074-08:00Lakeville Life Time Fitness Thanksgiving Turkey JamMy good friend Deb Preachuk is having another exciting Yoga event next Thursday (Thanksgiving!) at Lakeville Time Life Fitness in Lakeville, Minnesota called Thanksgiving Day Turkey Jam! The event is from 8:30am-10:00am and involves 3 different classes to kick your butt before you stuff your faces full of Thanksgiving dinner :) <br /><br />Included with the Step, Mixx, and Fluid Strength classes that morning, Deb will be giving out prizes from <a href="http://www.YogaDirect.com">YogaDirect.com</a>, <a href="http://yourhotheads.com/">HotHead Headbands</a>, and <a href="http://anniefink.com/">Annie Fink Designs</a>.<br /><br />Here is the information from Deb's <a href="http://www.facebook.com/yogadirect">Facebook</a> event page:<br /><br />Fabulous News! This just in: I will be teaching a 30 minute Fluid Strength section along with two other amazing instructors Thanksgiving morning at the Thanksgiving Turkey Jam at Lakeville Life Time Fitness.<br /><br />This is a workout not to be missed!<br /><br /><b>Who?</b> Mary (Step), Nicole (The Mixx) & Deb (Fluid Strength)<br /><br /><b>What?</b> 30 minutes each of Step, The Mixx & Fluid Strength.<br /><br /><b>Where?</b> Lakeville Life Time Fitness - Studio 1<br /><br /><b>When?</b> 8:30 - 10:00am Thanksgiving Day (Thursday November 26th)<br /><br /><b>Why?</b> You're kidding, right? Why not! Amazing instructors, fun atmosphere, door prizes, and a healthy way to get rid of all that stress that comes with visiting family and making a fancy meal...<br /><br />You're all invited to join Mary, Nicole and Deb for a 90 minute, not to be missed, Thanksgiving Day Turkey Jam workout. Come and get your GROOVEMENT on! Toss the bird in the oven, grab your gear, get to the studio as fast as you can. Come to play and sweat it all out before the day's feasting and celebrations begin. Looking forward to seeing you in the studio!<br /><br />To RSVP your planned attendance to this event please visit: <a href="<br />/http://schedule.lifetimefitness.com/schedules/club/164/dept/22/">/http://schedule.lifetimefitness.com/schedules/club/164/dept/22/</a>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-76813879947064918822009-11-11T22:37:00.000-08:002009-11-11T22:40:38.945-08:00So Close...But So Far Away!Well, tomorrow is my last day in Vegas before we go back home. We have been so busy with the conference that I haven't been able to catch a Bikram class :( It is really inspiring to see all the teachers in training going to class every morning when we are on our way to the conference. Perhaps I will come back here one season and take the Bikram Teacher Training myself!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-72376786277806527032009-11-09T22:24:00.000-08:002009-11-09T22:28:15.430-08:00Wouldn't You Know...BIKRAM IS HERE!!!My boss and I are in Las Vegas this week for a Conference and we are staying at the Hilton. We were just wandering around downstairs and I see this sign for Bikram Yoga Gift Shop. <br /><br />What? <br /><br />So I go in and there's all these cool Yoga things and I am looking around and discover there's a Bikram Yoga teacher training session going on right now in this very hotel! Hahaha, what luck! <br /><br />I am sure there's no open classes to take, but I am definitely going to be on the lookout for Bikram himself. I would love to get my photo taken with him heheh.<br /><br />I will keep you posted!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-35510567198256123862009-11-09T08:04:00.000-08:002009-11-09T08:09:39.331-08:00One Last Hike Before WinterIt was abnormally warm in Connecticut this weekend, so Nathan and I took a hike in Farmington, CT. It felt so good to be outside, and it wasn't that cold at all. We used some trees to do some stretches :)<br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/blog/tree.jpg" alt="stretching with trees" border="0" /></center><br /><br />I will be in Las Vegas all week at a conference. Since I have no money to gamble, I am bringing my <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_mats_travel.html">Travel Yoga Mat</a> so I can do some Yoga in my hotel room :) See ya next week!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-26505951941531278672009-11-02T06:04:00.001-08:002009-11-02T06:46:05.300-08:00Techno Hot Power Yoga ClassesI took a two hour Hot Power Yoga class at <a href="http://www.samadhiyogastudio.com/">Samadhi Yoga Studios</a> in South Windsor on Friday. The class was taught by my new friend Alysse, and two live DJ's (my husband, <a href="http://www.djoriginate.com">DJ Originate</a>, and Yoga instructor Nick Ricciardi) accompanied the class. It was quite an experience!<br /><br />I had never been to this studio, or even to a Hot Power Yoga class before, so I was excited and nervous about the class. Especially since I hadn't stepped into an actual yoga class in over a month! As soon as I walked into the studio I could hear the boom of the bass from the music. As a big fan of Drum & Bass, Dubstep, and Electronic Music, I couldn't wait to get into the class!<br /><br />I laid down my mat in the middle of the room. There were about 16 people in the class, and we were all different ages. I was glad to see such a diverse group of people. But then again, Yogis are pretty much always open for new things!<br /><br />After setting the initial intention for the class, Alysse began leading us through Sun Salutations and the pulse of the music became louder. I do have to say that I LOVED having techno music blasting during the class! I am not sure if it is just because I am used to being driven by music because I am a dancer, or because it was helping me get through the millions of Chaturangas I struggled through (something Bikram students like myself are NOT used to!!!), but it was great! It was also comforting to occasionally look up at the two DJ's and see that they were both totally into the music and the energy of the room as well. <br /><br />The two hour class flew by, and was full of flowing postures, balancing postures, and many breathing exercises. It was actually the toughest class I have ever taken - even more so than any Bikram class, if you can believe that! I definitely need more Hot Power Yoga classes in the future, at least to build my arms strength. My arms are STILL sore from all the Chaturangas, and it is 4 days later!<br /><br />At the end of class, when we came back from Savasana, we sat up and faced Alysse and the two DJ's beside her, who were all seated in cross-legged positions with their palms up in front of us like they were thanking us for the class and the energy we had shared with them. <br /><br />I didn't get to talk to any of the class members about their experience, but I did talk with my husband after. It was great to see him looking so happy after class. He has NEVER been to a Yoga class before, so I was eager to hear what he thought about the class. From the look on his face, I could tell that he may have gotten some of the benefits of doing Yoga just by being in that hot room with all of us practicing in front of him.<br /><br />He told me that he felt he was feeding off our energy during the class. His song selections were chosen based on what postures we were doing. He said that when we began flowing, he would pump the bass up a bit more, and when we were still, he changed to play more smooth songs. Nate used to DJ our dance rehearsals sometimes and has become really aware of how to play off his audience, so I was really excited to hear how that translated into DJ'ing for a Yoga class. <br /><br />Nate and I spoke to Alysse and Nick after class and we all agreed that perhaps a "TechnoYoga" class would be a good idea to add to the class schedule at the studio. Though the mixture of Yoga and Electronic music is not something you'd think that would blend together that well, it surely was an experience we'd like to explore again!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-29498818831417163972009-10-29T07:49:00.000-07:002009-10-29T08:04:26.535-07:00Yoga with Live DJ's and BPA-Free Water BottlesI am really excited about tomorrow because I am taking a 2 hour long hot Power Yoga class at <a href="http://www.samadhiyogastudio.com/southwindsor.aspx">Samadhi Yoga Studios</a> in South Windsor from 6-8pm. I am especially excited because my man Nathan (aka <a href="http://www.djoriginate.com">DJ Originate</a>) and his friend Nick Ricciardi will be spinning live sets during the class! It should be a really fun time. I met the instructor, Alysse Melville, last night because she and Nick came over our apartment to practice, and she is awesome! <br /><br />I am pretty sure the class is still open, so if you are in the area, you should come and join!<br /><br />Also, if you have been following me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/yogadirect">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://www.twitter.com/yogadirect">Twitter</a>, you have been reading about BPA, one of the harsh chemicals found in certain #3 and #7 plastics, and now in some canned goods. BPA has been linked to causing cancer and other problems, and Connecticut has been the first state to actually ban the chemical from being used in products. The ban won't go into effect until 2011, but in the meantime, it is best advised to look for BPA free products. <br /><br />At <a href="http://www.YogaDirect.com">YogaDirect.com</a>, we carry a set of 5 BPA-Free, re-usable water bottles called <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_waterweek.html">Water Week</a>. When we first had them in stock, they sold out like hot cakes! But I am happy to announce that they will be back in stock again by tomorrow (10/30/09). I am definitely getting my own this time! There's 5 in the pack, and they suggest you fill them all up at the beginning of the week, and take one to work with you every day to promote staying hydrated! They are also really bright and cheerful looking :) And for only $21.99 for all 5 bottles, it's a steal! Check 'em out:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_waterweek.html"><img src="http://www.yogadirect.com/images/categories_pages/water.jpg" alt="Water Week BPA-Free Bottles from YogaDirect.com" border="0" /></a></center>YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-9964225523994873592009-10-28T07:24:00.001-07:002009-10-28T07:56:57.156-07:00My Achilles Heel is a Group of Cysts in My Ankle...On Mondays I take a 3 hour modern dance class at Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury, CT. I am a 2006 alumni of the dance department there, and they always bring in such great guest teachers, so I am happy to be able to continue my dance education there. However, dancing these days has been a bit of a struggle for me since I had my ankle injury back in early June. I have been able to get it back to a place where I can safely dance on it, but lately it has been starting to act up again.<br /><br />It is not even really an injury, per se. After an MRI, the doctor was able to tell that I didn't tear a tendon like he had originally thought. Instead, he found a group of cysts that were wedged above my calcaneous (heel bone) that were preventing me from pointing my left foot. My doctor believes that in June when I did a "tombe', pas de bourree'", a very simple ballet combination, I must have popped one of the cysts, which sent synovial fluid all over my ankle, causing my muscles to swell and a whole lot of pain. I was put in an orthopedic boot for about 3 weeks, and after that, my doctor told me my ballet days were over.<br /><br />Pretty devastated by my doctor's "death sentence," I asked him if Yoga would still be ok. He advised I only do gentle forms of Yoga. He also told me that if I were to have the cysts removed, they would grow back. He also told me the MRI showed I had a small piece of bone just hanging out in my heel, which is most likely the reason why the cysts formed - to cushion this bone piece. The doctor told me if they removed the bone piece, it may cause other problems in my ankle and foot and the best thing to do is just leave it all in there and kiss dancing goodbye.<br /><br />This was not acceptable to me. I have always danced, even before I knew what dancing was, I was a bouncing, grooving kid! It was something that just came naturally, and it is not something I can just stop. Mind you, this doctor is not a sports medicine doctor, and I think I definitely should get a second opinion, but money is tight right now, so I just have to wait.<br /><br />In the meantime I listened to my doctor's advice for a while and only did gentle yoga. Over time, my ankle started to feel much better and I started attending Bikram Yoga classes again. The heated room and the stretching felt like it was helping my ankle even more, and that is why I started dance classes again. Unfortunately, as the doctor warned, the dancing has put my ankle under stress and my recovery has been pushed back a bit. <br /><br />I had spoken to my Monday night dance instructor about my injury and she told me to take it easy. However, I was still planning on performing in the informal dance concert in December, which would mark the end of the classes for the year. I was especially excited to be performing in one particular guest artist's piece. The guest artist's name is Matt Westerby, and his style of modern dance is very familiar to my body and I picked up all the moves immediately, as if I had performed the piece before. I practiced the piece at home as well, because I didn't want to fall behind or not be warmed up enough because of my ankle.<br /><br />The great disappointment came this past Monday when I showed up to class. My teacher pulled me aside and told me that instead of performing Matt Westerby's piece in the concert, I would be understudying instead. I almost died. Even though I understand she was pulling me out for the safety of my injured ankle, I was just so upset that I wasn't able to do anything about it. I flopped through that class, not really absorbing any more of the choreography because I knew it would be all for nothing. <br /><br />Toward the end of class I ended up sitting down. I sat out partly because my ankle was in a lot of pain because of the strenuous choreography, and also because I felt like crying. Knowing in my heart that I cannot dance is killing me. I feel like someone is keeping my from breathing.<br /><br />If any of you can offer me any advice, or if yourself or someone you know has a similar problem, I would love to hear from you. I am planning on taking a real break from dance classes and just focusing on Yoga until I feel much better, but I am worried that because I have cysts in my ankle that won't go away, I will never be fully healed enough to dance again. That just breaks my heart.YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-68751986523300702112009-10-21T06:46:00.000-07:002009-10-21T06:49:49.886-07:00Private Yoga Class Tonight!I have not been into an actual Yoga class in over 2 weeks (shame on me!). I have been doing stretches and postures (and Mudras - my new obsession) on my own, but I haven't had the discipline of being in a class in a while. So tonight, my good friend Amy is coming over to give me a private class. I hope she doesn't make fun of me too badly - I am a little out of the loop! :)<br /><br />She teaches Vinyasa, which will be good for my muscles right now. I had a 3 hour modern dance class on Monday and I am STILL sore from it. Amy, if you are reading this now, please be gentle!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4465377433125691858.post-89142706227974720272009-10-16T06:57:00.000-07:002009-10-16T07:24:31.334-07:00Recycling Your Yoga MatWe all know that Yoga Mats don't last forever. Instead of just throwing them away, there's a number of ways you can recycle your old mats.<br /><br />Here's a list of ways Nathan and I have re-used our old Yoga Mats:<br /><br />1. Take them camping and use them as pads underneath your sleeping bags. It makes sleeping on bumpy terrain more comfy! Plus, it may prompt a random Yoga session in the woods!<br /><br />2. Nathan cut a square off an old Yoga Mat and used it as a pad underneath our cutting board. Now the board stays put on the counter when we use it.<br /><br />3. We cut small circles off an old Yoga mat and placed them underneath the legs of all the beds, chairs, and dressers in our apartment so we could stop scratching our hardwood floors.<br /><br />4. Nathan cut large squares out of an old Yoga mat and we now use them as decorative pops of color underneath the wine glasses in our bar.<br /><br />5. Though I still haven't done this (I need a glue gun!), you can turn your old Yoga Mats into <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Flip-Flops-from-a-Yoga-Mat">Flip Flops!</a><br /><br />6. Our downstairs neighbor gets mad when we walk around the house in shoes (he is a bit of an ornery man!), so we laid down a <a href="http://www.yogadirect.com/yoga_maendymat.html">Maendy Mat</a> on the hardwood floor of one of our highest traffic areas, and since then the complains from downstairs have stopped - and it is hard not to do some Yoga on it every time we pass through the room!<br /><br />7. We constructed a "cat house" out of an old box for our cat, and put a piece of Yoga mat in the bottom of it, so Beeboo can have a nice comfy place to hang out!<br /><br />8. Nate is a <a href="http://www.djoriginate.com">DJ</a>, and since we live in an apartment, the noise from his spinning records would sometimes get to be a little much for the guy downstairs. So we cut out speaker sized squares of yoga mat and placed them underneath the speakers. This made the sound less unbearable for our neighbors!<br /><br /><br />I also posted the question of how people recycle their Yoga Mats on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/YogaDirect">Facebook</a>, and here's the great suggestions people made:<br /><br /><br /><i><a href="http://www.recycleyourmat.com">www.recycleyourmat.com</a> or i know someone looking for mats for a transitional shelter.</i> <br /><b>-N. Adler</b><br /><br /><i>Humane Society,can also use them! ;)</i><br /><b>-S. M. Springer</b><br /><br /><i><a href="http://www.recycleyourmat.com">recycleyourmat.com</a> or your local woman's shelter!!</i><br /><b>-J. F. Miletic</b><br /><br /><i><a href="http://www.yogamates.com/news/595/">http://www.yogamates.co/news/595/</a></i><br /><b>-K. K. Luber</b><br /><br /><i>you could cut it in smaller rectangles for extra cushion under the knees or hips.</i><br /><b>-L. T. Warren</b><br /><br /><i>J. R. Morgan says use it as stair runners. i had a yoga teacher who gave us jam and wrapped each jar with a piece of mat then cut strips and made bows from the same. you could chuck the jar at a wall and it wouldn't break. I've also used them in the barn for horses to stand on. i'm writin a book on this with Bhujangasana (N. Adler)!</i><br /><b>-J. Morgan</b><br /><br /><i>I folded one to add cushion to a dog crate - then put blankies on top of that.</i><br /><b>-M. Bloom</b><br /><br /><br />Anyone have any more ideas? Fee free to post them in a comment below!YogaMaendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13957525287076811516noreply@blogger.com2