December Declarations 🌲🤶🏼

So now in the last month of 2020; What can you declare to shine light into these days, to finish the year 2020 more resilient and ready to flow into 2021 ?

Despite its challenges, illnesses, setbacks, diversions and distractions what one thing might you declare today to put in place to end the year stronger / shining more brightly ?

What is a declaration and is it different from an affirmation ?

A declaration is a written or oral statement of a fact or belief.

We often see or hear of the practice of affirmations being used: These are positive statements used repeatedly with the aim of generating and challenging a negative thought. For example, if you are lacking self love/value you might look yourself in the eye in the mirror each morning and say “I love you”. For me, when I was in a place of self-lack / love / loathing this use of opposites merely brought tears. You can say “I love you’, “I love you’, ‘I love you’ .. until you’re blue in the face but unless you are ‘feeling’ it, and in a place of depletion/unworthiness, it’s powerless, futile, pointless and harmful.

I see a declaration as more powerful therefore. It has to have ‘belief’ and , importantly , the ‘feeling’ of belief behind it. In the above example you might look yourself in the eye in the mirror and say ‘I’m going to learn to love you more each day’ or ‘I’m grateful for how unique you are, no-one does ‘you’ better !’. ‘I declare I’ll put steps in place each and every day to demonstrate that you are worthy, valued and loved’ ‘I declare to prioritise self care’.

What declarations would work for you ? These might be one step to get you shining more brightly in the advent to Christmas and beyond ? Wishing you love and light this Christmas and into 2021 🙏🎄❤️🔆 (Do share / comment / let me know how you get on ♡)

For me I’m grateful for having already taken the path of self healing. Having the awareness that self-care is crucial during challenging / these times: noticing any imbalances and intuitively tapping into the tools/knowledge/skills of: yoga, ayurveda, gut health, habit change science, neuroscience, sound healing/meditation and mindfulness etc. to bring me back to a place of stability, focus, resilience and inner calm: from which we can all thrive. I’m acutely aware of how stress manifests itself in all areas of our lives / wellbeing. How imbalances in the body/mind can block us from thriving in ‘life’.

So today I’m declaring to share my message more often/widely to reach those that need it. Having taken my own explorative path from a place of burnout and imbalance. I’m now extremely excited to share this, supporting those like me, perhaps at a stage of transition, to thrive.

Are you / Someone you know interested to find out more about the 12 week pilot dynamic group coaching programme: Surviving to Thriving : Re-root, Re-Energise, Rise and Thrive- helping and supporting those in a place of stress, overwhelm, imbalance or adrenal fatigue to rekindle their passions, gain clarity, recognise their worth and thrive ?

Currently this powerful pilot group programme is offered at a huge discount. To find out more do fill out the form below, so that we can arrange a complimentary consultation (approx 30 mins) to see if you are a good fit for the programme.

Please indicate a good date and time to schedule your consultation. In the notes please indicate: 1) What your biggest health challenge is ? 2) What is your one big health goal ? 3) How long have you struggled with this ? 4) What have you tried so far that hasn’t worked for you? 5) What is your biggest challenge with not accessing your goal ? 6) What is your biggest motivation for wanting to reach it (your goal) ?

Many thanks I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you in your journey.

Go back

Your message has been sent

Warning
Warning
Warning
Time(required)

Warning
Warning
Warning.

Nourishing November


What are you nourishing this November ?

I wonder if you are familiar with the native american life story of ‘ The Two Wolves’ ?

A Cherokee is teaching his grandchildren about life:

“A fight is going on inside me.  It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves. 

One represents : fear, evil, anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other stands for: joy, peace, love, hope, sharing, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, friendship, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. 

This same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”

The grandchildren thought about this for a while and then one child asked his grandfather: 

“Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply smiled and replied:

“The one that you feed.”

This version of the parable is taken from one of my yoga teacher’s books:  Norman Blair’s “Brightening Our Inner Skies”: Yin and Yoga. 

I quote it often in Yin Yoga classes as it serves as a reminder of the power we have over our experiences and emotions.

Notice what you are nourishing your mind, body and spirit with today ?

Which wolf are you ? / Which will you choose to  ‘Nourish’ ?

What ways do you intend to Nourish your body, mind and spirit today and throughout the rest of November ?

Are you showing symptoms of stress at this time ? (Perhaps an indication that you need to focus on Nourishing ‘you’ / Self-care ?)

Emotional symptoms:

  • Easily agitated, frustrated, and moody
  • Overwhelmed
  • Feeling ‘lacking’ or bad about yourself, low self-esteem, lonely, worthless, depressed.
  • Difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind
  • Avoiding others  

Cognitive symptoms:

  • Constant worrying, racing thoughts, forgetfulness and disorganization
  • Poor judgment and inability to focus 
  • Pessimism or seeing only negative                               

Physical symptoms:

  • Weakened immunity: frequent colds and infections
  • Stomach / gut issues
  • Aches, pains and muscle tension
  • Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
  • Chest pain and rapid heartbeat
  • Nervousness, shaking, ringing in the ears, cold or sweaty hands and feet
  • Difficulty swallowing and dry mouth

Behavioral symptoms:

  • Procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities
  • Nervous behaviors, eg fidgeting, pacing nail biting
  • Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes
  • Appetite changes (not eating or eating too much)

Like to explore cultivating calm and resilience during times of change / uncertainty ?

Recieve my 9 Nourishing November Nuggets towards a calmer, more resilient ‘you ‘ in your inbox:

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Or explore more with us at the Nourishing November Workshop on 29/11/2020 sign up now.

OM-ing October Challenge

The October Challenge or exploration is all about cultivating more calm, kindness, focus, flow and inner-peace during these challenging times. We sometimes chant ‘Om’ or ‘Aum’ in yoga as a way of resonating and connecting with all around. The inspiration behind October’s 5 day challenge/exploration similarly is to reach out and make a connection; to share with those experiencing stress and anxiety during these times. When physical connection is discouraged and fear and isolation run the risk of perhaps manifesting in unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety and poor mental health. I wanted to share a little of some of the tools of yoga, along with wisdom and learnings from yoga’s sister science Ayurveda, neuroscience and habit change science that I couldn’t be without at this time and hope it will help others.

The 5 day challenge runs throughout October. You can join it here. You’ll get an email with a video sharing tools that help bring / cultivate; a greater sense of calm, focus, flow and inner-peace at this time. The intention is to encourage an integration of the tools into daily habits. Enjoy / connect .. let me know how it goes 🙏❤️😉

Rocket Yoga ? Yin Yoga ? Vinyasa/Ashtanga/.. ? … Many styles of yoga but which should I try ?

I’ve been asked recently about the differences. So here’s a repost from January 2019

Racheleyoga Holistic Wellness's avatarRacheleyoga

Even when people have a clear distinction between Pilates and Yoga (simplistically; one has a physical focus, the other tends to have a spiritual focus as well as body and mind) . There are now so many styles of yoga that the choice can perhaps be bewildering.

So what is ‘The Rocket’ ?  

3D4A6012ASWEB

There are those of us who love ‘the rocket’ 😍🙏💕… but we are all unique and should celebrate that .. so we accept it’s not for everyone ..

Where does ‘Rocket Yoga’ come from ?

Intro… Larry Schultz

The ‘Bad Boy of Ashtanga’

Larry was affectionately known as the ‘Bad Boy of Ashtanga’ because after spending time with Pattabhi Jois learning classical Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Larry became frustrated with not being allowed to move onto the Second Series and practice other poses besides the Primary Series.  He broke away from the ordered system but took many of…

View original post 668 more words

25th March 2020 – Pregnancy Yoga during Lockdown

| 🙏❤️ Nurturing, Nourishing, Empowering – Pregnancy Yoga 🧘🏻‍♂️ 🙏❤️|
So . this was me .. on my own in my studio (yet connecting virtually) Wednesday evening, March 25th 2020; teaching pregnancy yoga (an hour + class condensed into 1min 🧐😅) … online … for the 2nd time.
There’s a strength that comes from connecting as a small gathering of women at this magical time for them. Recognising this but anticipating a necessity to support social distancing for the greater good of the health of the nation and our NHS .. the Pregnancy Yoga Course was taken online (18/03/20)
My inspiration for working quickly to keep this special ‘vulnerable’ group all connected at this challenging time … 🙏❤️😘
The next April #Nurturing#Nourishing and #Empowering Pregnancy Yoga Course starts next week ..
It’s taken in real time at home through zoom …
If you know anyone who could benefit please share 🙏❤️
#kindness 

#support #together 

#pregnancyyogainmarketharborough 

#helpthroughchsllengingtime

EVENTS:

Sunday, 17 November 2019 from 14:30-18:30

Foxton Village Hall, Market Harborough, LE16 7RE

BOOK NOW

So ..No wine here !
… but …
.. ‘twine’ what associations do you make ?

… a String ? … A Strong thread ? … A cord ? .. Weaving ? .. Connecting ? … Creating ? … Pulling together ? .. Holding in place ? .. Strength? … Flexibility ? … Support ?

In this afternoon workshop you’ll experience all of this, and more, as we take an afternoon ‘out’ for you. We’ll be releasing energy blocks, opening up in mind, body and spirit, sharing energy and connecting with others; getting in ‘the flow’.

You’ll leave not only feeling, refreshed, revitalised, and connected but also with that high that comes from having been in the flow of artistic expression. You’ll take away a gorgeous bird feeder, that you’ll have created in the process, to sustain wildlife for a few years to come.

This workshop commences with a yoga practice to target and tap into your creativity: To Awaken your Inner Artist.
We’ll practice awareness in asana (poses), pranayama (breath/breathing) and meditation. We’ll let go of distractions of the mind, to clear the way for inspiration. Creativity arises naturally in states of stillness and presence.
No previous experience of yoga is necessary.

We’ll move on to a two hour workshop of ‘creating’, with the wonderful Kerstin from Somerby Basketry, leading, teaching and guiding. We’ll be learning traditional crafting methods and using natural willow, sourced as locally as possible. You’ll take away a beautiful birdfeeder to use having the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created it yourself as well as sustaining wildlife.

All materials for the willow weaving workshop will be provided.

You will need to bring your own yoga mat for the yoga practice along with a cushion or bolster and a blanket.

Autumn: A time of transition and transformation


Have you ever felt stuck ?  Maybe you’ve had a physical feeling of ‘stuck-ness’ or an issue like writer’s block, impeding your creativity, or you’ve felt stuck in a job or relationship ? 

It’s clear from the often articulated … “It’s just what I need(ed) … “Thank you” .. voiced before or after a yoga practice, that many recognise the physical benefits of freeing up the body.  It’s noticed how yoga is a way to get your body moving. But .. perhaps less widely acknowledged, recognised or attributed, is that it’s a great method for activating internal energies: shifting thought patterns and opening up to creative inspiration.  For me clarity only arises during those moments of stillness created through a yoga and mindfulness practice.   

So, how can yoga help you to ‘let go’ ?

 .. To move forward, to let go of who you think you ‘should be’ of what you think you are ‘supposed’ to achieve, of ‘how’ you believe you should look and ‘what’ you ‘should’ feel like and, perhaps most challenging, to let go of harsh self-judgment and inner-critic.

3 Tips to ‘let go’ of anything holding you back, unleash your creativity and move forward : To grow 🌱

1) Notice what ‘fears’ might be holding you back and address them.  Eg. Perhaps you’re not starting tasks because you think you’re not ‘good enough’  Release that belief. Schedule your tasks, set a timer, (50mins) and do what you can.

2) Set intentions to keep you focused, productive, avoiding distractions that might zap your energy and help to move you forward.  Eg. Remind yourself of a simple intention to ‘be kind’, be kind to ‘yourself’ through activities that will nourish you and your energy.  Schedule regular self -care, things that you love to do, try to involve physical activity and improve your physical fitness / energy eg. walks in nature/outdoors, socialising with friends, a fitness activity, yoga.

2) Get lost in your breath, be in the moment.  Bring your awareness to your breath. Connect with your breath. Visualise a deep breath coming in: nurturing, nourishing and revitalising your body/mind and spirit and a big sigh out releasing any tension of the moment.  Breathe it all in, let it all go, re-center and go to that safe, comfortable place within. Each new breath is an opportunity to start afresh.

Racheleyoga October Class themes have centred on ‘letting go’ releasing what doesn’t serve us so that we can move forward.

If you live in the Market Harborough area and you’d like to explore the benefits of practising yoga to unleash ‘your’ creativity: whether you are new to yoga or not .. Do join us in our next event:

Creative Yoga Workshop Sunday November 17th 2019 .. Book your place ASAP.


SUMMER SUNDAYS 🙏🌞⛱🍉 .. Yoga Supper and Mindful Meandering 07/07/19

Time outdoors is one of the most valuable gifts that you can give yourself. This retreat evening kicks off the first of a series of Summer Sunday Mindful Meanderings 🙏❤️:

An opportunity to slow down, make time for yourself; create space, reconnect with body and bring clarity to mind: To explore.
You’ll benefit from an immersion in nature 🌱🦋and the proven effects this has on improving mental health ❤️and wellbeing.

An exploration into nourishing the mind, body and spirit through the sharing of yoga, mindfulness, meditation and healthy gut nutrition / supper.

After welcoming/introductions .. we’ll find a quiet area amidst the Foxton Canal-side / Countryside to practice a mindful walking meditation. (No previous experience necessary for this or the Yin Yoga – all necessary coaching/guidance will be provided)

Next up a steady and nourishing, outdoor yin yoga practice (weather permitting), enjoying panoramic views across the Foxton countryside, allowing you to gradually unwind, restore and recharge. This will consist of meditation, pranayama (breath work) and asana (physical postures).

We’ll complete our mindful meanderings event with a nourishing healthy demo and Supper as a group so that you have the opportunity to connect with like-minded souls.

Please bring suitable footwear for canal/countryside walk and a coat / layers to be prepared for the Great British weather ☺️

For the yoga practice you will need to bring a mat, clothing layers, and blanket.

All experience levels are welcome, including those newer to yoga.

Investment is £40
Places limited to 12 so early booking is essential BOOK NOW

If you would like to give this day retreat as a gift, gift vouchers are available. Please contact me for more details.

T&C’s
Regrettably should you wish to cancel your place, payments are non-refundable. Racheleyoga cannot guarantee the weather and if it is unsuitable on the day .. some of the events may be moved indoors.
Booking is via the tickets link