The party was a happy & joyous event for me. Thank you. Thank you.
Andy and I on our way to celebrate V-Day in Cincy with yoga (me) UK game at sports bar (him), good friend, good food, good drinks, and good music. The BW gals before the workshop with Sharon Gannon of Jivamukti Yoga. Michael Franti decided to join us at the workshop. What a sweet surprise?! Me. Crushing. Completely. See Beth... watching me....gush. Sharon gives a talk about her new book that she is promoting, Yoga and Vegetarianism. That's her on the floor, center in front, black long sleeves. Small, petite little gal, with a BIG powerful presence. At the concert later. It was at Bogarts. Michael Franti and Spearhead (and Cherise, the gal who also totally rocked) were so uplifting and inspiring. Really, if you ever get the chance to go. Don't walk. Run. To see him. So worth it. A prefect ending., to a perfect day.
The 2009 Yoga Teacher Trainees, from left to right we have: Meredith, Lisa, Jeanne, Beth, Debbie, Leah, Jessica, Brian, and Jean.
You'll see them around the studio taking, assisting, and observing class. Give them big smiles and a few encouraging words.
I'm dashing off to buy things for tonight's party. A gal like me always waits till the last minute and decides to add something to the plan. Typically creating a little more work, but very worth it. I think so anyway!
One more reminder that this Sunday Teresa is teaching a chair yoga workshop. If you or anyone you know is interested please go the website and register!
Today was such a good fun day! I did a consult with the good guys from Best Buy yesterday about getting the studio all suited up with a new sound system. Per their recommendations yesterday I went in this morning and purchased a receiver, five disc cd changer, four speakers, and a hookup thingy to make ipods play (clearly I'm not well versed in all this). It was just a little overwhelming...."Can I go with the outdoor speakers, just cause they're white and will match the decor of the studio?" And yes I could! I had to upgrade to the five disc cd changer just to make it easier on us yoga teachers. Hopefully by the end of the week, you'll be able to hear our instructions much easier if you're in the back of the space! Hoping so anyway. :-)
I taught class at noon. I really enjoy teaching this class as I feel like I have a bit more freedom to do things differently. So we focused on grounding postures and even threw a couple restorative poses in at the end.
Ate a Luna bar for lunch along with sipping some yummy tea. Had a private session at 1:30 that is normally a semi-private. I did some thai yoga massage with her then we focused on hips and hammies. I've been seeing this sweet gal for months now and she's always a delight.
Had time to eat a few almonds and dried fruit (Luna bar didn't quite do the trick) just before my conference call at 3:00. Gathered on a phone call with other yogis from as far away as Australia and discussed teaching and operating a business in tough economic times from a place of abundance or scarcity. Uh, let's go with the abundance. Scarcity never ever feels good.
Finished the phone call, scheduled a private session for tomorrow with a dear one that I haven't seen in a while. Looking forward to that. Met with another gal who signed up for our private introductory special and a month of classes, scheduled for Monday. I don't really advertise private (a bit more now than in the past) but I've found that since I did the yoga therapy training, they're just coming in. And I really enjoy doing them. In the past I felt like they were just too much work. Now they are a fave....along with leading retreats and teacher training. We've scheduled another yoga therapy training for the fall. If you're thinking of doing it, you should. It's so worth every penny.
Met Tara with Natural Awakenings and upgraded with our monthly ads. I just love this publication. They are doing an excellent job with bringing us a real health and wellness magazine from a more holistic view. And the calendar in the back?! Who knew that we've got such great things going on in the community? Then taught the Yin Yoga class at 6:00. Zens me out just seeing everyone else so zenned out. Even among the crazy winds tonight in the new studio that has been called "the yoga tree house". Very good.
Planning to have sweet pleasant dreams tonight. Wishing you much of the same. :-)
Don't forget we're having a party this Friday night at 6:30. Do join us......
The scary stuff: *The ice storm that left loads of us without power. And on a much bigger note....the ice storm that took lives. Even without power I found myself giving thanks for having shelter, food, and family to take me in when it got too cold.
*My dog Bella who at ten years old has been acting a little off at night when we go to bed. She was sneaking away and sleeping in the bathroom (along with other odd and random behaviors). After seeing Marley and Me,learning that dogs sneak away when they die, Andy and I have become a little paranoid. I know it's a terrible, terrible thought! I'm reading your mind!
*BIG yoga classes! This is also listed as an exciting thing. It's not that I'm scared to teach them (cause I love the big classes) but it does make me question if everyone is getting the love, care, and attention that they need and I so want to provide. The thought of having an assistant for the big classes has entered my mind and is currently being evaluated.
The exciting stuff: *BIG yoga classes!! More exciting than scary for sure. Twenty eight people in the Saturday class. And you all are so cute. People are coming up to me and expressing how great it is to see so many new people in the classes, asking about the influx of students since the new space has opened, etc. Yes just typing about it puts a big ol' smile on my face.
*We're adopting a cause. See to the right....and vote if you haven't already. But quickly cause today is the last day. I'm excited about this, the teachers are excited, and many of you are excited A big thanks to Emily for getting the ball rolling with this one.
*We're having a party this Friday and lots of fun workshops coming up. Chair yoga, drumming with Toby Christensen, yoga with two of Shiva Rea's main assistants, Daphne & Tom (who are remarkable if I might add), the art of yoga & tea. So much to explore!
*Me and boundaries! I'm setting them. After my vulnerability hangover and which I expressed the need to rest, it's setting in. And I'm lovin' it. On a day like today when other times I'd be working, I've chosen to read in bed upon waking, clean the house (imagine that!), walk to the coffee shop and write (for fun not work), and watch 15 minutes of Days of Our Lives. Terrible I know. Also planning to take the dogs for a walk, play Scrabble with Andy, and play in my yoga room later.
*I'm going to Cincinnati this weekend for a yoga workshop with Sharon Gannon and watching Michael Franti that same night! And like me, he is a down with our new prez....
*Babies Galore! One of my best friends in Seattle in giving birth to her first babe this month and both my sister and sis-n-law are prego. Lots of little ones to go round!
*Our yoga retreat to Mexico this summer! Plane tickets are being bought...plans, topics, and themes for the week are swirling in my mind. I'm dreaming of beach meditations, mango margaritas, beach strolling, life reflecting, sea floating, laughing, and living it up. *And I'm learning Spanish! Again. Finally.
*My friend Shelli (she has a new blog!) and I are planning a short retreat/workshop for yoga teachers, offering CEU's for those yogi's registered with Yoga Alliance. We're currently researching places to hold it and that is such fun!
*It's been warm for two days now! I know I'm not alone with being excited about this one.
The "makes my heart happy and hope-full" stuff: *My yoga teacher trainees. I'm officially in awe and in love with each of them. We just shared our third weekend of training together and the admiration on my part continues to grow. They get it. They really get it. And I can't wait to take class from them.
*The out pouring of love during the ice storm. Sometimes it takes a miserable thing taking place to help remind us how lucky we are to have friends and family to come to the rescue.
*This weekend I got one of the biggest compliments EVER when someone told me "I have never been to another yoga studio that create community quite like Barefoot works. I've made friends, really friends here!" Yes, that made my month.
*My mom hasn't smoked for 16 days! She has smoked my entire life and this is the longest she's ever gone without a cigarette. Makes my heart happy, oh so happy.
*Being surrounded by people that inspire, support, nurture and encourage me. That would be Andy, my family and friends. My yoga friends near and far away. Teachers I've had. My fellow yoga teachers at BW.... And you.
Feel free to play along with the questions on your blog....or facebook. :-) Let me know if you do so.
"Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is. " Mary Anne Roadacher Hershey
Come out this Friday evening at 6:30 for a yogic gathering to celebrate the new studio and YOU. For there would be no new studio, without YOU.
It's a casual pot-luck (vegetarian pretty please) and at some point, as we often do we'll throw in some playful partner yoga.
I'll bring the wine, cupcakes, and utensils. You bring youself, a date if you wish, a dish if you wish, a smile and a happy heart.
A young man was picking up objects off the beach and tossing them out into the sea. A second man approached him and saw that the objects were starfish.
Why in the world are you throwing starfish into the water?
If the starfish are still on the beach when the tide goes out and the sun rises high in the sky, they will die, replied the young man.
That is ridiculous. There are thousands of miles of beach and millions of starfish. You can't really believe that what you're doing could possibly make a difference!
The young man picked up another starfish, paused thoughtfully, and remarked as he tossed it out into the waves, it makes a difference to this one.....
By Loren Eisley
Thinking of how easy it would be to make a differenc in the life of one being today. I continue to believe that small and random acts of kindness and love lead to BIG beatiful changes.
Tonight Andy and I came home from a warm and welcoming stay in eastern KY to a big blue house..... with light heat tv computer and all other things we've come to associate with modern day living.
Don't get me wrong. I am not a high maintenance kinda gal. The place we stayed in Tulum, Mexico a few short weeks ago.....no electricity. None. And I loved it. Every. Little. Bit.
But it's cold here in Jan. The first night in with no power. No biggie. Andy and I cuddled. I read by candlelight. Went to bed early. I would almost say I enjoyed it.
The second night in it was much colder. We added an extra blanket. Cuddled more closely. Reading by candlelight was no longer fun.
The third night in we were doing that thing where we held a little flashlight above our mouth and went, "ahhhhh" only to see our breath as if we were standing outside in the cold. We added another blanket. Stuck our heads under the blankets when we got really cold. Bedtime was getting earlier each night. I was tired of eating out and my eyes hurt if I tried to read by candlelight.
The breaking point was waking the next day and feeling like I had been beaten with a big rock. My neck, shoulders and upper back were aching badly. So I called and bumped my meeting in Hazard to Friday. I phoned my brother to see if he could get Andy and I an appointment for a massage. We deserved it after all. Andy and I packed a tiny bag, laptop, and with dogs in tow we made our way to Hazard, then to Whitesburg.
My family took great care of us. Spoiled us with hot drinks, good eats, good conversation, cozy bed and best of all......a hot tub.
And now we're back.....and happy as clams. We've got a bunch of work to do to clean up, but nothing could dampen our spirits tonight.
~If you are still without power, know that I'll be thinking of you. This has really been a tough time and my heart goes out to all of you.~
Yay! I'm so happy to be at the studio today. It has lots of little luxuries that I don't currently have at home.....heat, light, comfort. You know, all the small things we normally take for granted. :-)
The main roads all seem to be clear. The drive into the studio is fine. Just be careful on the side road leading to the studio (where Starbucks is). It's still a little icy.
If you're like me and ready to get back to a sense of normalcy, then join us for yoga class this evening. Both classes are being held as scheduled.
I'm at the studio now. Was preparing to teach, but it's getting really messy out there! I just feel better making this call, knowing that everyone will be safe in this winter wonderland. I know it's making a big ol mess but my gosh it is beautiful. Even saying that without power at home in the bg blue house!
I just feel better making this call. It's really icky out there. So please enjoy your practice from the comfort of your own home. Light a candle. Set an intention. Do what you feel your body needs. Breathe. Finish with more breathing and sitting. Read something inspiring. Write about how you feel.
Lots of options. Maybe on a day like today you've got enough time to do all. Maybe you have time to do one. Something is better than nothing. I thinnk so anyway.
And if you are like me and can't help but dream a little of warmer days, then consider coming along in July to Mexico for our annual yoga retreat. It's my intention to get at least ten people this year and we're over halfway there.
Think summer is too hot for Mexico? I've been in January, April, July, and September. Mexico is always good. Trust me. In July you get over two hours more of extra daylight, which makes it super nice.
I know a few people that are taking the direct flight from Cincy to Cancun. It's way too easy. Way too convenient. So if you come along we'll set up a carpooling group to the airport.
Thinkin' about it? Click here to details on the website. Click here to read about Maya Tulum, where we stay. And lastly, I'll take you on a little tour. Come along with me.......
Ok, I get it universe. I can't be it all. Can't do it all. It's not even noon and I've gotten two big wake up calls. The biggest one being missing a meeting that is super important to me. I was convinced it was next Monday at 8:30. Not today at 8:30. Wow, still can't even believe I did that. I thrive on being prepared and even early to meetings. I felt bad. Really, really bad.
At the same time it's a wake up call, that again I've been doing too much. I'm seeing the need to decide where I really need to dedicate my time and energy. I want to do the things that I love very well. Not half assed.
I find myself saying "yes, yes, yes" to too many things and too many people. I need to establish more boundaries. I need more balance. I know this. Now I need to make decisions to work towards it.
I'm sharing something personal like this because I believe there are lots more of me out there. There are lots of us doing way too much. Maybe it's because we can't say no. Maybe it's because we're afraid to say no. Maybe we fill our calendars because it makes us feel good in some weird distorted way.
Yesterday was my first day off in 16 days. That's just crazy. So today, as of 11:24, I will not be working for the rest of the day. Well Andy and I are gonna try and get some coat hangers hung at the studio for your sake, but that can't wait.
For today I'm gonna relax in the ways that I want and need. Know that for today I can quit striving and know that everything will be fine. I invite you to find the time and do the same.
"As we look ahead into the next century, leaders will be those who empower others." ~Bill Gates
We just finished our second weekend of yoga teacher training at the studio. Wowsers (yes I said it). They are amazing. I know I use that word fairly often here. But they really really are amazing.
All of them.
I've been wanting to write about our training group for the last two weeks. The moving out of a studio and into a new one sorta got in the way of that, so here I am two weeks later.
First off, our weekends are long and they are intense. Between practicing, practice teaching & adjusting, we're talking almost six hours of kick your asana over the course of two days. When we're not practicing we're sitting on the floor. Talking philosophy, anatomy, ethics, techniques, methodology and more.
Not on couches. Not on chairs. Not on those beanbag things. We're talking a blanket. Or a meditation cushion for the lucky ones. Have you ever sat on the floor for almost seven hours over the course of two days? It's not easy.
And you know what? They do nearly all of it with a smile on their face. Really. I'm amazed by their eagerness to learn and teach. They are funny, insightful, inquisitive, thoughtful, compassionate, and so much more.
Do you know how much I love hearing, "I just learned something new about myself." "That's so interesting. I never thought of it that way." "I just had an 'aha' moment."
And I feel like I learned just as much as they did this weekend. Leading a yoga teacher training is not something I take lightly. It's a BIG job, a BIG role. So I make every effort to bring my best. And it thrills me that this group is matching that by bringing their very best.
Yes, a really great group of yogis. I'm already in awe of them and feel so privileged to share this journey. I have no idea how I was chosen to be the lucky one standing before them, sharing what I love. No clue. I just know I want to continue doing.....whatever it is.
A HUGE thanks to all you teacher trainees. So looking forward to the next six months.
Today I took a little trip over the hills and through the woods, not to grandma's house but to meet my sister in Richmond at Starbucks. When I drive this back way to Richmond there is always a spot that I love to see.
A little hill. White fence. Matching barn. Always picturesque. And with this mornings sunrise and a dusting of snow it was so very beautiful. I pulled over to take a few pics like so many other times.
I got to cross the river on the tiny ferry that only fits three cars....or sometimes four if you've got a box like mine. This morning the fog was hovering above the water and some geese were splashing about. Sorry I didn't get out to capture it. It was cold. But trust me, if too was beautiful. :-) Made my way to the Starbucks where I had absolutely no intention to get a sweet treat.....just a tasty drink. But when I saw their seasonal scrumptious looking cupcakes, I couldn't resist. Neither could my sister. So we split a double chocolate one and a vanilla bean. They were both delicious. But the chocolate takes the cake....the cupcake that is. And the rest of my day was equally satisfying and yummy. Hopes yours was too.
As you can see the move yesterday was a complete success! Moving on the coldest day of the year couldn't even bring me down. Although I have to say that poor Andy was the one making the trips back and forth moving things while I organized. Teresa, Sarah and Emily all came over and helped out yesterday which so very nice. Have I told ya'll lately that I have the MOST amazing and special yoga teachers around? Yes, it's true. They are truly lovely.
This whole process would never have happened without the help of family and friends. It took just over two months for the transformation. While we didn't do any major renovations, everything that was completed was done by myself, family, and friends. It was a labor of love for me....and the others labored because of their love for me (that and my persistence).
The first class at the new space was great. I was glad everyone seemed to find the space ok.....even without any signage. The sign peeps couldn't come out yesterday as it was "too cold". The only mis-hap was the coat rack sliding out of the wall when one too many coats was placed upon it. Hey, if that's the worse.....it's a mighty fine day.
Twenty two yogis showed up for the 9:15 class this morning and at the old space we would have been oh so tight and cozy. In this space we had room to let our "swan dives" be as wide and open as needed. And for the practice we spend a lot of time making circular movements and moving around on our mats in all directions. I thought it was appropriate for the new sorta circular space.
Everyone was super sweet and excited to practice in the new space. I was reassured when a few people told me they were a little nervous about the size of the space and "all those mirrors", saying that the space felt so cozy and peaceful. A number of people said the space will make then even more likely to get in for yoga class.
Which was one of my hopes with this new space. You see, we have the absolute best yogis joining us at Barefoot Works and they (you) deserve nothing but the best. I was ready to have a space that will inspire, uplift, and motivate you.
I was ready to have a space that will be peaceful zen-like and comfortable.
I think we've achieved that. I hope that you enjoy this studio and this space half as much as I do. I think it's quite magical. Enjoy........
Today I turned right at the Rite Aid, one last time. Today I was anxiously tried to heat the studio, one last time. I paid rent to Patchen Village, one last time. Today I pulled my yoga mat, along with two blankets & blocks, inspiring read, and journal underneath the vent (for more heat of course) and did my practice one last time. I taught two vinyasa classes, one last time. Gave hugs, smiled, greeted you at our cozy space, one last time.
I can't even decide how I'm really feeling at this point. It's a very odd and interesting feeling. Not necessarily good, nor bad.
I'm ready to move forward and completely dedicate my time and energy to just one space. The "in between" time has been a process, and it's been work. It's thrown me off just a bit (ok maybe a lot).
Figuring out the new studio space, physically getting the studio ready, keeping people in the loop, letting people know of the move, keeping up with classes, teachers, and students, creating new packages, paying bills, figuring out tax mumbo jumbo, brochures, website info, teaching private sessions, staying inspired and consistent with my own practice, and trying to keep the studio stocked with tp. Throw in the holidays, a trip to Mexico, starting yoga teacher training, and prepping for one in Hazard, and well......you get the picture.
Luscious chaos of sorts.
I like to credit myself as totally being a gal completely able to "go with the flow". But things like this kinda poke me in the side, and say "oh yeah really." Then I remember my tendency towards control with certain things.
Then I lean into the ickyness, take a deep breath, give thanks, and move forward.....one more time.
All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another. ~Anatole France
I can't believe that tomorrow is the last day of teaching in the current cozy ( I prefer this to "small") studio! I've got my list of to-dos, Andy is taking the day off, and others have been sweet enough to offer assistance.
If you can come out today or tomorrow for one final class at our current studio then you totally should. This is both an exciting and bittersweet move. I'm excited about the change, the growth, and the possibilities that await us in the new space. At the same time, I've grown to love this current space.....leaky ceiling and chilly place that it is at times. I've put much love into this space and I'll be leaving it behind to embark on a new studio journey. All in all, I'm ready for the change and the uncertainty that comes along. Nothing quite like change to shake things up once again!
~The pic is where I had a lovely massage in the jungle of Tulum. Nothing like getting back to nature.....and getting a magical massage at the same time!! Check the spa out here.
We´ve been in Tulum since about noon on Sunday. I´ve been doing yoga on my own plus taking class. I took a yoga class where we´re staying (Copal) yesterday. It´s great cause the yoga is included in the stay. Many of the places here in Tulum offer yoga and meditation. So again, I heart it here. I´m taking a yoga class later today at Maya Tulum.
Yesterday I had the great experience of getting a holistic massage with Fabian at Maya Tulum. It is my fave massage with my fave therapist (who also happens to be a third generation shaman). Jeanne and Tracy will agree that he alone is enough reason to travel to Tulum. Today I´m having a treatment with another shaman at Copal. From what I hear and read, he´s even better known than Fabian. I shall see today. ;-)
We got up early this morning and got to the Tulum ruins just before they opened at 8:00. Unlike the last time I vistited, it was not crowded, so hot that my camera decided to die, and I didn´t get lost. Tracy you would have been quite happy with today´s trek. It made for a much more sweet experience. And I got some great pics to share. Love this sacred land......
Joel, Rhonda and I are enjoying this rare chance to travel and connect on this level. Joel loved sharing Isla Mujeres and I love sharing Tulum with them. Everyone seems surprised when we tell them we are siblings taking a trip together....and more surprised when they learn that our spouses are at home! Thanks again Andy. ;-)
I know that Teresa, Sarah, and Emily are taking great care of you guys at Barefoot Works. I´m so excited to get back and get going with teacher training and the new studio. I´m officially ready to roll into the new year!! Great things are in store. I´m so very sure of it........
It´s been two sweet days in paradise! My brother (Joel), sister (Rhonda) and I arrived safe and sound Thursday just after 1:00. With a direct flight straight from Cincy to Cancun, Joel and I decided that it´s way too easy to get here. But we are so very lucky for it!
We´ve been hanging out in Isla Mujeres the last two days. Yesterday was an all day beach day. And with the Caribbean waters literally at your feet, it´s easy to chill on the beach all day with a good book in hand. I´ve been reading Iyengars Light on Life and really enjoying. Not considered a beach read to some, but any yoga reads is always a must for me. doesn´t matter where I am. Love it all just the same.
Joel and I went to Om Lounge last night to enjoy drinks and reggae music. Such fun and the place was amazing. I´ll have to dig up some pics and post at a later time. Just imagine the most beautiful lighting, all sorts of circular designs everywhere, loads of cool people, and happy music. And the mojitos were fabulous!
today we rented a golf cart and explored the island. The island is only about five miles long, but we managed to make a whole day of it. Stopping off to take pics, enjoy fresh pineapple juice overlooking the Caribbean, lounging on the beach, enjoying more good eats, and scooting around town.
I´ve managed to fit some yoga into my trip. Rather than schedule my day around my yoga practice, I´ve been fitting it conveniently into my day. Yesterday I practiced some postures while we were on the beach and today I woke early and while the others were sleeping. I rolled my mat and practiced some sun salutations. I think the ujjayi breath may have woke them up. But it was time to greet the day and get going.
Tomorrow we´re gonna have breakfast, pack our things up, take the ferry back to Cancun, and hop a bus to tulum! Yippy! My home away from home! Can´t wait!
I hope each of you are enjoying 2009. It is off to an amazing start and I fully intend to carry on the rest of the year with a sense of excitement and gratitude.
Off to drink iced coffee and write in my journal. Have a sweet day!!!
Another year is coming to a close. They seem to come more quickly with each passing year.
A big reminder to live life with loads of joy, compassion, and love.
Today I'm celebrating my victories both large and small.
Today I'm reflecting on what I want to release and let go off and what I hope to manifest in the upcoming year.
Today I'm hoping that I can move past any fear and regret experienced this year. Step fully into 2009 with a renewed sense of magic and wonder.
That's what I'm hoping for myself and hoping for each of you. May 2009 be the best year yet.
Happy, Happy New Year.
**I'll be away in Mexico Jan. 1-8, spending lots of time on my mat and barefoot. All classes are covered by the yoga lovelies better known as Teresa, Sarah, and Emily. You will be in very good hands.
The questions and the last couple of weeks. Here goes:
What scared me? ~Yoga schedule confusion. Thank goodness for Emily and ability to be flexible. I was all set to go to Owensboro, when I casually mention to her, "Since you're teaching the Tuesday class before Christmas blah, blah, blah." Turns out dear Emily didn't know she was teaching cause I failed to mention it. But she was more than happy to bail me out so I could go spend time with the Tessandoris for Christmas.
~Yoga studio chaos. My mind is in about a million different places these days and that doesn't seem quite conducive to running a business. I came back from my time away during Christmas and we were out of water, out of change, and nearly out of tp (but not all the way thankfully). The desk is a mess of papers piled, blankets that needed to be neatly folded, and that pesky leak in the corner is back. I'll be happy when I have only one studio to focus on. Please be patient with me. I promise it will be over soon. :-)
~2009 yoga teacher training. My mind...."I need to do this, this, and that. Oh and I've gotta do that too. This will make it special and I can't leave this out." Much material to cover. How does one fit all the goodness in in only six short months?!
~Taking it to a new level. My teaching, the new studio, all of it. It's time. I'm ready, but it's all still a tiny bit scary. I feel like since I've had the studio, I'm always doing things that push me out of my comfort zone. I've realized that once again, I'm stepping away from what feels steady and comfortable and easy. I'm not one to get complacent so I'm looking forward to new challenges. Even if they are scary.
What excited me? ~Appalachia Yoga. This is what I'm SO VERY excited about. I recently got the news that I'll get to lead a yoga teacher training in Hazard, close to my home! It couldn't be more perfect and I couldn't be more thrilled. I've been working closely with a gal in Hazard for months now, doing the research and prep work required for this. Just found out she received a grant. So I'll get to do something that been on my mind and in my heart (and on my vision board) for a while now. Several people in the area will have their training paid for and I'm lucky enough to get paid doing it. So if you know anyone in that area interested, send them my way. This training is the first step towards a BIGger project I've had in mind. I'm keeping mum about it now, but will share at some point. I'll know when it's time.
~We have a date! A date to open the new studio. Saturday, Jan. 17. The first class at the new studio will be at 9:15 a.m.
~You mean I have to leave the house. I've been in my car, running between studios, running to Lowes for supplies, and doing other random things that this week of rest couldn't have come any sooner. Being that it was a holiday, I was forced to rest and take it easy. I only left the Tessandori house three times in nearly six days.
~The fun of Christmas morning. Andy's fam goes all out at Christmas and I must admit that it's quite fun. We have the Christmas Eve pj ritual (where we all get new jammies to wear), lovely eats and drinks, Christmas day movie, and get this.....Santa still comes! We wake early in the morning all get to see what Santa has brought us. It's hard not to believe in the magic of the season at the Tessandori household.
~Candles (thanks Maria & Susan), sweet teacher Christmas cards (thanks Sarah), gifts of books (thanks Jeanne), eats at Panera (thanks Tracy), yoga cd's, (thanks Emily), yummy scents (thanks Diane), good eats (thanks Teresa), homemade cupcakes (thanks Vicki)and so much more! A big thanks to all of you for thinking of me this holiday season. :-)
~Bathing suits at Target. Not because I bought one, or that I necessarily love them. But it reminded me that I'm going to Mexico and that my friends is enough to make me do the happy dance.
What renewed me? ~Little Luke. Mine and Andy's nephew from TX that we don't get to see nearly enough. At 15 months he's full of life, energy and surprises. He's cute and cuddly. A bit mischievous. And oh so loveable.
~Understanding that I can't do it all. And that's ok. Taking note of what I'm good at and what I'm not. Understanding that I can't and shouldn't do it all feels very good. I'm getting better at this.
~Spending time with good friends and family. Even among the busy times I've been fortunate to surround myself with people that make me happy and smiley. That is one big joy of the season. People gathering to celebrate. To exchange gifts and gratitude. To eat too much. Too drink too much. It's a good thing we don't live this way every day (the eating and drinking part). The happy and smiley part, the people gathering part.....we totally need to do every day.
Be kind to yourself, dear – to our innocent follies. Forget any sounds or touch you knew that did not help you dance. You will come to see that all evolves us. ~ Rumi ~
**A big thanks to Retta for the beautiful new blog header! She's helping me to bring the whole "Fun, Freedom, Flow" idea to life!
Too busy to fit in an hour long yoga session at home? Try practicing for a few short minutes to feel refreshed and renewed. You can do the following anywhere....in a car, in between wrapping presents, standing over the stove, or standing in line at the bookstore. Enjoy!
Take a deep inhale and with the exhale, lower your chin towards your chest. Inhale and roll your head to the right, aligning the right ear over the right shoulder. Exhale and drop your chin back towards your chest. Inhale and roll your head over to the left, aligning the left ear over the left shoulder. Exhale and drop the chin back to your chest. Repeat three to five more times, linking the breath with the movement. While your doing these half circles, try to keep your face and shoulders relaxed. Now close your eyes and take five slow deep breaths.
I used to wait for a sign, she said, before I did anything. Then one night I had a dream & an angel in black tights came to me & said, you can start any time now, & then I asked is this a sign? & the angel started laughing & I woke up. Now, I think the whole world is filled with signs, but if there's no laughter, I know they're not for me. ~ Brian Andreas
A lot of people have been asking what inspired the move to the new studio. There were several events that happened and lots of number crunching going on. It all seemed to make sense but I was still hesitant to sign on the dotted line.
Driving to the studio one Saturday morning to teach class, I had expressed to the universe that I was open to guidance and would keep my eyes open for any signs.
I'm sitting at my desk ready to sign the yogis in when in walks a man who had to be no shorter that 6'5.
He was a TALL man. Very TALL.
And I said to him, "Um I have to apologize now cause I don't think you're gonna be able to reach your arms overhead without hitting the ceiling!"
It immediately dawned on me....my (now) new space has a ceiling that nearly reaches the sky! Then and there I decided to take a risk and sign on the dotted line.
So my angel was not wearing black tights.
He was wearing black yoga shorts and visiting Lexington from Hong Kong. That's been his one and only visit to the studio.
A reminder to keep our eyes open for when the universe decides to wink at us.
Pretty words that you'll find in this video that I ran across....
~Great ideas come from bike rides ~Plant seeds ~A broken heart can make great art ~Don't care too much
I LOVE this video and can't stop watching! It's leaves me wishing I had more time to romp around taking pictures, make vision boards, collect my stories and those of my family.....glad the new year is just around the corner. Along with a trip to Mexico to take pictures of the sunrise, write big words in the sand, work on some spanish, spend my days with books, and journals, and candles, and chill with the siblings.
Looking forward to pondering art. What it means. How to live more "artfully". How to create it and carve space for it. What it means to see it, live it and be it.
We're happy to be running on a modified yoga schedule this holiday season. The two years prior, we have been closed the entire week of Christmas. So with a little help from the yoga elves (also known as the BW yoga teachers) you'll get to experience the joys of yoga during the holiday season. Here is the schedule for next week and the new year:
Sunday, December 21 @ 10:30 Yoga for Stress Relief Monday, December 22 @ 6:00 Yoga for the Flexibly Challenged Tuesday, December 23 @ 5:45 Mixed Level 1 & 2 (just for today, normally level 2) Closed Wed. and Thu. Saturday, December 27 @ 9:15 am Mixed Level 1 & 2
New Years Eve, Jan. 31 @ noon Express Yoga Closed New Years Day
Make some time for your yoga during the busy and fun filled holiday season. Take a class, bust out a down dog with the kids, balance in tree pose next to the Christmas tree, and if nothing else, take big deep delicious breaths and remind yourself of all you have to be happy about.
I've had a hard time finding good time to blog over the last couple of weeks so I'm starting a weekly ritual of sorts. Asking myself some questions that will require some thought on my part.
The questions are: What sacred me? What excited me? And what renewed me? All applying to this past week. So here goes......
What scared me?
~Job scares. First a family member that works at Toyota, then Andy got wind of budget cuts statewide for education. Both are good for now. It's just scary and sad when you start feeling the effects of what's going on with the economy. BIG deep breaths for all of us.
~This week was the first time that I got really nervous about the unfolding of the new yoga studio. I kept looking at my planner and counting down the days till the new year which was about the time I had originally planned to open. But when you throw Christmas in there, the new year, and a trip to Mexico....well the days dwindle down really quickly.
A few of you probably noticed it when you asked me about the opening of the new place and there was this hesitation of my part.
It took a good glass of wine and my dear yoga friend Shelli to help me to see the light. So I'm not rushing the process and I'm not going to stress myself out over the holidays and during my trip to Mexico (which is meant to be a reward and a time to chill).
So opening of the new studio.....terribly scary, but more exciting. Which leads us to the next question.
What excited me? ~We started putting the floor down at the studio! Yeah! The same thing that scared me most also excited me the most. Isn't that crazy! Life. We all signed the bare floor for when it's one day famous. Or at least my yoga crush Seane comes and leads a workshop. :-) Now it's starting to "feel" like a yoga studio to me. Thanks to my brother-in-law Harold we got almost half of it finished over Friday and Saturday. He assures me that it will be down by this time next weekend. I've recruited more handy siblings and family members to help. Thank god for good family. Zach really enjoyed sliding on the new floor and playing with his monster truck.
~After coming back from our trip to Nashville I also decided to add an accent wall at the new studio. We already had the walls painted "belgian waffle" so we went back over one wall and now have some "chocolate waffle" on the walls too. Sure it added a bit more work on my (and poor Andy's part) but I'm really lovin' it! You can see it in the pic above.
~I got a couple gifts at the studio this week that was exciting.....thanks Irene for the yummy peppermint bark and thanks to Lucy (one of me sweet private gals) for the beautiful flower on the front desk. Tis the season!
~We also got our first order of long sleeve tees in at the studio. They're super cute with words on the front and logo on the back. Phrases on the front include: ~Spiritual Cowgirl (my fave) ~My Yoga Tribe ~Follow Your Heart (with an outline of a heart instead of the word) ~Fun Freedom Flow (which is what we aim to do at Barefoot Works)
I love teaching a class and looking out and seeing someone sportin' a barefoot works tee. Very exciting for me.
Sizes small through xl are available. The shirts are affordable at $26 (plus tax). If we don't have your size in a particular shirt, let your teacher know and we'll be happy to order it next time.
What renewed me?
~Andy and I took a few hours this week to put a tree and a few decorations up. We didn't go all out like we have in past years, but it was enough to put a smile on my face and get me in the spirit of the holiday.
~Sarah taught the most wonderful restorative yoga workshop last week. She is such a great teacher and I'm hearing that more and more often these days. I got to be the helper bee while Sarah taught. It was very rewarding to step back, assist in helping people get cozy in their postures, and to witness Sarah share her gift of yoga and teaching. In between postures I sat in the back, halfway meditating, halfway listening, but mostly just feeling the goodness of the people and the little place known as Barefoot Works.
That's my week! Feel free to play along with the questions on your own blog (or facebook page) and share with me if you do so!
It doesn't have to be the blue iris, it could be weeds in a vacant lot, or a few small stones; just pay attention, then patch
a few words together and don't try to make them elaborate, this isn't a contest but the doorway
into thanks, and a silence in which another voice may speak. ~Mary Oliver
This poem is posted on this blog somewhere. I shared it today at the end of class and someone commented on how much they loved it. Thought we all could benefit from reading and sitting with these words.
~I love this pic of Tracy from our yoga retreat to Maya Tulum. Love the setting, love the sun rising, love saluting the sun as it rises. Love how beautiful the practice of yoga is and the sacred-ness of it all. Felt it was very appropriate for the poem.
I took the yoga teachers away to Nashville this past weekend to celebrate the holidays and show my appreciation for the great job they do teaching yoga. We left bright and early Friday morning to make it to Nashville in time for a "power hour" yoga class at Sanctuary for Yoga. Tom is one of the owners and he was great. His humor and lighthearted nature made the focus of the class, which was crow and headstand much more doable. And of course we practiced linking the two and moving into and out them. Fun stuff! The wrists certainly got a workout!
After class we browsed Ten Thousand Villages and picked out a handmade tapestry from India that will go in the new studio. I also purchased some soup from the Women's Bean Project that I made last night and it was amazing! We had lunch at a big, beautiful, yummy Whole Foods with Emily's mom and dad (her dad is quite the funny guy) then it was time to make our way to our next yoga class at Kali Yuga Yoga.
Had we not practiced a power hour yoga class just over three hours prior, the gals and myself might have hung in a bit better (at least we told ourselves that ;-). I knew that when we started the class hanging out in down dog for, oh I don't know seven minutes, we were in for it. And not just regular down dog, but all sorts of goodness to go along. This class was about ten times as intense then the power hour class. At times I couldn't help but silently chuckle to myself. OK, maybe a couple times it was a little more than a chuckle, but I'm sure no one heard. Maybe Emily, but that's it! Let's just say that after this class I told the girls that I suddenly felt like my classes are a "cake-walk". Here is Teresa and Sarah moments after the class. Clearly they survived the class. ;-)
We had a great dinner with good eats and drinks, energizing conversation, and many good laughs. Boy did our arms tremble from the class when we raised our wine glasses for a toast. Saturday we went back to Sanctuary for another vinyasa yoga class. Daphne was the teacher and I LOVED her class. It was a level 1 and 2. When she told us we should have come to the level 3 and 4, we laughed and told her we welcomed the less challenging class. I'm not sure our sore, tired bodies could have kept up with another power hour.
We're all back to the studio and teaching now. Sarah taught a sold out restorative yoga workshop on Sunday and Teresa has taught three classes by now. Each of us agree how important it is that we get away to refresh, invigorate, energize and connect to the practice of yoga and each other. It was a very special weekend and we plan to do this a couple times a year.
That's what the label of my ginger yogi tea says, and I agree. I'm learning more about myself the more I ponder, feel, and listen to this heart stuff. I'm even having some cute long sleeve tees made for the studio and one says "Follow Your Heart, but instead of the word heart, it's the outline of a heart. Excited to get those in.
I'm treating the yoga teachers at the studio to a little yoga getaway to Nashville. We're leaving early tomorrow and squeezing in three yoga classes, good eats & treats, and shopping time. We'll swap yoga stories, teaching strategies, speak of a few wishes, and hopes for the new studio and new year. I do love this kinda stuff! We will be having all of our regular scheduled classes so come out sometime this weekend.
Have a lovely weekend. I fully intend to do the same. :-)
PS - Don't forget that the restorative yoga workshop is this Sunday at 1:00! Come out and treat yourself.....
I can't help but chuckle a bit when I think of my day so far. As a small business owner,I usually try to group together certain tasks and different things I have to do. Today I've done such random things. Here's a recap of my day so far:
~Work from home this morning from 8:30 - 12:30. Spent time answering and sending emails and mailing yoga gift certificates. The majority of time was spent reviewing and updating the "yoga techniques" portion of teacher training. Sixty poses in which I have benefits, verbal cues, adjustments, and modifications listed for the teacher trainees. Needless to say at the end my eyes were glazed and I was looking forward to painting at the new studio. ~Went to Lowes to buy more painting tape (I'm thinking I should have stock in this)and spent two hours taping and painting trim. I spend most of my time crouching in a yogic squat (malasana) of sorts. Thankfully, it's a pretty comfortable position. I'm looking forward to a yoga practice to stretch my back though. ~Spend another hour reviewing and paying bills....advertising, insurance, water, website gurus, water peeps, division of revenue, teachers, etc. ~Which brings me to now....Andy is sending me silly text messages. I play along for a minute, then kindly tell him "Um sweetie, some people are still working." His response, "Some people were working before you got out of bed." Fair enough. It's true. ~Now I'm going to tidy up the studio, treat myself to a yoga practice (gotta make time for this), the prepare to teach this evening. I hope to see you here!
Hi, I'm Sharon welcome to the Barefoot Works blog! I'm the happy owner of Barefoot Works, a delightful yoga studio located in Lexington, KY. I blog here about our yoga happenings and life in general. Looking forward to getting to know you and hanging out on your yoga mat. Enjoy your visit - at the studio and here in blog-land.
Andy and I on our way to celebrate V-Day in Cincy with yoga (me) UK game at sports bar (him), good friend, good food, good drinks, and good music.
The BW gals before the workshop with Sharon Gannon of Jivamukti Yoga.
Michael Franti decided to join us at the workshop. What a sweet surprise?! Me. Crushing. Completely. See Beth... watching me....gush.
Sharon gives a talk about her new book that she is promoting, Yoga and Vegetarianism. That's her on the floor, center in front, black long sleeves. Small, petite little gal, with a BIG powerful presence.
At the concert later. It was at Bogarts. Michael Franti and Spearhead (and Cherise, the gal who also totally rocked) were so uplifting and inspiring. Really, if you ever get the chance to go. Don't walk. Run. To see him. So worth it. A prefect ending., to a perfect day.
Now it's starting to "feel" like a yoga studio to me. Thanks to my brother-in-law Harold we got almost half of it finished over Friday and Saturday. He assures me that it will be down by this time next weekend. I've recruited more handy siblings and family members to help. Thank god for good family. Zach really enjoyed sliding on the new floor and playing with his monster truck. 
She is such a great teacher and I'm hearing that more and more often these days. I got to be the helper bee while Sarah taught. It was very rewarding to step back, assist in helping people get cozy in their postures, and to witness Sarah share her gift of yoga and teaching. In between postures I sat in the back, halfway meditating, halfway listening, but mostly just feeling the goodness of the people and the little place known as Barefoot Works.
Saturday we went back to Sanctuary for another vinyasa yoga class. 
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