Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on Dec 24, 2008
Mary Jo Fetterly, Trevor Yelich, and Ally Bogard just completed the final official level 3 teacher training under the name of Trinity Yoga as the teacher training company switches to Gaiatri Yoga. Congratulations to all of the graduates that made the retreat at Edenvale in Abbotsford, BC so special. As students of the program move on to explore their own creative and authentic approach to teaching, so too do the facilitators of Gaiatri Yoga. With a lot of exciting projects, new courses, return of old courses (Yoga for Pregnancy and Beyond) and movements towards a 500 hour program and advanced Spirit-based studies, keep your eyes posted on the website and newsletter for courses in your area. As Mary Jo Fetterly maintains Vancouver-based Trinity Yoga for advanced studies and Jennifer Steed moves more towards retreats and family time; Anna, Trevor, Ally, Tiffany, Trisha, Rik and Sonja continue with the 200 hour teacher training program with excitement, expansion and some exciting new ideas. Here are some things to look for as Gaiatri Yoga continues on:
a mentorship program linking newer teachers with experienced teachers in their area for ongoing feedback and learning
an organic and sustainable line of bolsters, meditation cushions, and yoga props
an up to date resource for ongoing retreats, yoga workshops and further studies
online podcasts about all things yoga and ayurveda - join Anna and Ally for online classes, topic discussion and technique and alignment
Whether you are starting off your teacher training experience, are mid way through as a Trinity teacher or are a graduate of the 200 hour program, Gaiatri is committed to providing ongoing support. Your training and records transfer over with the name change and if you are not currently receiving the newsletter, send us an email at info@gaiatri.com and we will put you on the mailing list.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
Blessings to you all in the coming year,
The Gaiatri Staff
Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on Dec 21, 2008
As winter lays her cold and dark grip on us, we can seek out ways to feel nourished, grounded and joyous. The snow covered trees speaks of the humbling nature of Gaia or Mother Earth and how she encourages us to be soft, draped in stillness, so that we can turn inward. Unfortunately, during the winter months we often experience a cloaking of our joyous nature due to the introverted aspect of winter. Instead of winter being a rejuvenating time for self nourishment and introspection, some of us feel lonely and bombarded with the eternal questions…..“What is my purpose?”, “Where I am I headed in life?”....
A framework of simple preventative tools can provide guidance for a fulfilling and balancing winter. By taking control of your health now, you’ll be better able to transition into Spring with grace and ease. The following tips, coupled with a regular, spirit-based practice, can help you ward off the mid-winter blues.
1. Rise early. Even though we may feel like sleeping-in, getting up before sunrise can help ward off melancholy.
2. Oil is essential. Massage your body with warm sesame oil to help preserve and restore body heat throughout the day. To save time this can also be done in the shower. Rub a small amount of oil on your body after you have washed and while you are still wet. Remember to put several drops in your ears too. Pat yourself dry and you are ready for the day.
3. Neti or nasal cleansing with warm water and salt is a great prevention as we head towards Spring in order to remove Kapha accumulation in the sinuses. Add a pinch of turmeric to increase the cleansing aspect.
4. Nasya or nasal administration of medicated oil or ghee can help to keep the nasal passages clear and mucus free. It also lubricates the mucosa of the nose during the cold, dry winter months. Simple sesame oil can be used or ready made combinations for specific doshas are also good. Lie down and tip your head back, place one or two drops of oil on the nasal septum or cartilage between the nostrils. Massage for several seconds and breath deeply.
5. Sip warm liquids between meals to help stay warm and aid in proper elimination. Lemon, ginger and honey is a soothing boost and prevents the build up of mucous in the system. It will also enhance digestion so you can get the most out of every meal.
6. Focus on eating winter foods that are prepared fresh each day. Soups with beets, carrots, winter squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, onions and garlic. Grains like amaranth, oats, quinoa, brown rice and wheat are also warming for winter. More spices can be added to your foods now favouring pungent, sweet and salty tastes.
7. Keep a routine. Commit to exercising everyday, walking, cross country skiing, yoga and climbing, anything that gets you out and keeps you active. Be home early so you have time to enjoy a simple meal in the evening and be ready for bed between 8 or 9pm. This will prepare your body and set your clock for waking with the sun the next morning.
Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on Dec 18, 2008
Have holidays of the past left you feeling drained or unbalanced? Feeling emotionally grounded and energetic will help you enjoy the upcoming holiday season. Here are 5 tips to keep you happy, healthy and full of heart. Have fun exploring these simple ways to stay balanced to maximize this precious holiday time with family and loved ones.
1. During this Vata time, coldness, dryness, roughness and movement are constantly influencing our lives. To balance these qualities give yourself a full-body massage, ideally after your morning shower, with your favourite oil (non-roasted sesame oil is a good option). A light coating of oil will keep your emotions grounded and your body protected from the elements. Sesame is high in calcium which is an added bonus for your bones and joints.
2. Eat warm, moist foods, with natural oils and warming spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Add digestive spices to your meals, including fennel, cumin, coriander, black pepper and mustard seeds. Limit dry foods like crackers, raw foods such as salads, and cold food and drinks.
3. Limit your alcohol consumption. It’s not always easy in social situations, so instead try a sparkling organic fruit cider or ginger-beer. Your body will thank you and your hostess/host will also appreciate this gift!
4. Dress warm so that you can enjoy more time outside in the fresh air. Exercising in fresh air helps to improve your breathing technique, clarity and energy levels.
5. Spend some time each day in quiet reflection. The most Sattvic or harmonious time of day is 45 minutes before and after sunrise and sunset. Enjoy a walk in nature, reading, yoga or meditation.
Posted by Rik Logtenberg on Dec 16, 2008
I came across this article on the Huffington Post about Dorothea Brande’s twelve mental exercises. I think these are great and I’m going to give each one a try and then report on what happens.
1. Spend an hour each day without saying anything except in answer to direct questions, in the midst of the usual group, without creating the impression that you’re sulking or ill. Be as ordinary as possible. But do not volunteer remarks or try to draw out information.
2. Think for 30 minutes a day about one subject exclusively. Start with five minutes.
3. Write a letter without using the words I, me, mine, my.
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Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on Dec 05, 2008
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Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to India, and practiced in other parts of the world as a form of alternative medicine. In Sanskrit, the word Ayurveda comprises the words āyus, meaning ‘life’ and veda, meaning ‘science’. Evolving throughout its history, Ayurveda remains an influential system of medicine in South Asia. The earliest literature of Ayurveda appeared during the Vedic period in India. The Sushruta Samhita and the Charaka Samhita were influential works on traditional medicine during this era. Ayurvedic practitioners also identified a number of medicinal preparations and surgical procedures for curing various ailments and diseases.