I get dozens of private emails every week asking many of these questions, and I thought it was time to put my answers together so that everyone can benefit.
Enjoy my Q & A session with pictures of me in some of my favorite yoga poses mixed in!
Answer:I would recommend doing some research about beginner's classes in your area and going to either a local yoga studio or some actual place where yoga classes are offered with a teacher. I do not necessarily recommend DVDs or podcasts for total beginners because with DVDs/Podcasts you could begin to practice bad habits which are not only hard to break, but you could injure yourself. Once you have some real live classes with a real live teacher under your belt, and if you feel it is beneficial to your schedule and life to do DVDs/Podcasts, then go for it.
Answer: See the previous answer about first making sure that you aren't going to be practicing bad form, improper alignment, or doing anything else that could set yourself up for injury or nasty habits that are hard to break...after we've established that you feel these are safe, I would say go with teachers that resonate with your style of yoga. I personally don't listen to DVDs/Podcasts that much because I don't have much practical use for them, but these are a few that I know students like with my sidebar about what their style, in general, is.
DVDs
Rodney Yee (he has a mere 67 choices on Amazon)-Nice, Middle of the Road, Hatha, Flow, Vinyasa Yoga
Shiva Rea- Flow, Vinyasa, Power, Surfer, Core Work
Seane Corne
Nicki Doane's Ashtanga Yoga-I do ashtanga so I am partial to anything ashtanga.- Intense, vigorous, flowing, heat-building, a "great workout".
Also see David Swenson's Astanga Yoga Store for DVD's- And, he had great laminated practice cards showing all the poses in the 1st and 2nd series in ashtanga which are the poses that I frequently show on my blog.-- Intense, vigorous, flowing, heat-building, a "great workout".
Mandy Ingber's Yogalosophy - Jennifer Anniston's yoga teacher
Yoga for Beginners II DVD (with Patricia Walden) by Gaiam
Podcasts
On itunes (must have itunes downloaded and search for these there) but most are free. Full length 60+ minute classes.
Yoga to the People
Dave Farmar
On YogaDownload
Try whatever strikes your fancy. Note that you have to pay for these downloads that are longer than 20 minutes whereas on itunes, they are largely free.
On Yoga Tune Up- Register Here for Free Yoga Videos
Books
Author: Sri Swami Satchidananda
Anyone curious about the discipline of Raja Yoga would do well to pick up Sri Swami Satchidananda’s meditations and perceptions on its teachings.
This insightful tome looks at yoga from a biological perspective, illustrating the hows and whys behind some of the most popular and effective poses.
Considered one of the best possible resources on yogic practices, Light on Yoga covers everything that everyone from beginners to seasoned professionals needs to know.
Newcomers to Ashtanga Yoga should pick up this book in order to soak up all the information they need to progress to the next level.
5. Anatomy of Hatha Yoga: A Manual for Students, Teachers, and Practitioners
Author: David H. Coulter
Author: David H. Coulter
A Benjamin Franklin Award winner, David Coulter’s guide to all things Hatha outlines how the discipline interacts with anatomy and physiology in a way that most readers can understand.
For a comprehensive overview of the various ideologies and disciplines that comprise the different yogic practices, pick up this incredibly informative book to use as a guide!
Yoga aficionados with a yearning to learn more about the discipline from the perspective of a true expert will enjoy the prolific Paramahansa Yoganada’s reflections on his life.
Many individuals from around the world love yoga’s introspective nature, and even a quick glance at this guide holds the potential to teach a few lessons on getting the most out of it.
Donna Farhi seeks to bring the spiritual element back into yoga, which started fizzling out once it became a trend amongst “Western” yuppies.
Discover what yoga practices particularly benefit the overall health and wellness of women everywhere.
Much of yoga’s popularity comes from its therapeutic properties, and this volume compiles them together into one very handy resource.
As one can probably assume from the title, The Yoga Bible catalogues over 150 of the most popular poses for a quick reference on what to do in what situation.
Erich Schiffmann’s guide to yoga places equal emphasis on its physical elements as well as its potential as a meditative tool.
Explore yoga through the lens of its holistic properties, peering into its depths as a practice beyond merely stretching.
Yoga practitioners wanting to get the most out of their exercises would do well to pick up this fun and funny book on the role it can play in reducing the stresses of daily living.
16. Meditations from the Mat: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga
Authors: Rolf Gates & Katrina Kenison
Authors: Rolf Gates & Katrina Kenison
Learn about how yoga improves the mind as well as the body by reading Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison’s daily meditations and applying them to routines.
17. Journey into Power: How to Sculpt Your Ideal Body, Free Your True Self, and Transform Your Life with Yoga
Author: Baron Baptiste
Author: Baron Baptiste
Pick up Journey into Power for detailed information on all the wonderful ways that yoga can improve the mind, body and spirit.
Athletes and anyone else hoping to increase their physical prowess may enjoy this book’s focus on how yoga can help them improve their flexibility and strength.
19. Back Care Basics: A Doctor’s Gentle Yoga Program for Back and Neck Pain Relief
Author: Mary Pullig Schatz
Author: Mary Pullig Schatz
People suffering from chronic spinal pain along the neck and back frequently take up yoga as a means of alleviating the symptoms and comfortably getting back into their daily routines.
This book predominantly targets the most ardent of yoga aficionados, illustrating how they can tailor their knowledge and experience to create a more personalized regimen.
21. Yoga for Depression: A Compassionate Guide to Relieve Suffering Through Yoga
Author: Amy Weintraub
Author: Amy Weintraub
Harsh antidepressants can wreak havoc on one’s brain, so anyone looking for a conduit towards calming the strains of anxiety and stress may want to look into yoga as an option.
Stephen Cope’s autobiography chronicles how yoga allowed him to come to terms with his own life and discover the man that always lay beneath.
23. Kripalu Yoga: A Guide to Practice On and Off the Mat
Authors: Richard Faulds & The Senior Teaching Staff of Kripalu Center
Authors: Richard Faulds & The Senior Teaching Staff of Kripalu Center
Suitable for beginners and intermediates, this reference guides readers through all the basics of yoga poses and breathing exercises that benefit a body and mind beyond the boundaries of the sessions themselves.
24. Yoga Posture Adjustments and Assisting: An Insightful Guide for Yoga Teachers and Students
Author: Stephanie Pappas
Author: Stephanie Pappas
Get the most out of a yoga routine by studying how to best adjust the poses and breathing exercises to meet specific needs.
25. The Language of Yoga: Complete A to Y Guide to Asana Names, Sanskrit Terms, and Chants
Author: Nicolai Bachman
Author: Nicolai Bachman
For moments when yogic terminology becomes overwhelming and confusing, pick up Nicolai Bachman’s handy reference to the practice’s specialized language.
At 672 pages, the very highly regarded Dharma Mittra certainly has plenty of expertise to share with fellow yoga practitioners of all levels and preferences.
Contrary to popular assumption, yoga poses are not only restricted to the entire body, and these hand exercises make for a healthy way to pass the time in cramped or inconvenient spaces.
Even the gentlest of yoga poses can result in a minor injury if executed improperly, so be sure to read over this book on how to prevent any problems from occurring during a yoga session.
Anyone looking for a comprehensive resource on anything and everything regarding yogic poses, breathing techniques, meditations and more needs to pick up The Sivanda Yoga Center’s painstakingly detailed book.
Hatha is one of the more prevalent yogic forms practiced in the “Western” world, and this guide introduces newcomers to the basics and helps them learn as much as they can to move up to the next level.
Get started with yoga by settling down with this accessible resource that comes straight from The American Yoga Association.
Show those darn kids on the lawn that old fogies have the strength and flexibility to do more than just shake a cane at their disruptive antics.
The aspirant yoga aficionado looking for suggestions regarding a viable regimen would do well to check out Richard Hittleman’s recommended routine.
Research the fundamentals of the Iyengar method to see if it perhaps holds the key to solving a particular physical, emotional or mental issue.
The prolific Rodney Yee outlines a yoga routine he developed to hopefully maximize an adherent’s strengthening of mind, body and spirit.
36. How to Know God: The Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali
Author: Patanjali
Translators:Christopher Isherwood & Swami Prabhavananda
Author: Patanjali
Translators:Christopher Isherwood & Swami Prabhavananda
For those desiring to learn more about the religious and spiritual elements of yoga, Patanjali’s ancient tales serve as an amazing resource.
Yoga involves disciplined breathing intending to induce meditation and relax the muscular system, and Yogi Ramacharaka explores their physical and spiritual components.
Some individuals suffering from chronic arthritis may like the idea of attempting yoga in order to alleviate the pain.
Paul Grilley hopes that his book serves as a gentler alternative to some of the more high-impact poses preferred by “Western” yoga teachers and students.
Any yoga fans looking for a more active, strenuous workout may like the Jivamukti technique, which creators Sharon Gannon and David Life outline here in great detail.
Squarely targeting yuppie women who enjoy whitewashing other cultures in order to seem sophisticated and edgy, this fluffy pink guide teaches the fundamentals of, like, meditation and exercise and stuff.
Darren Main’s book finds ways to apply ancient practices to distinctly contemporary problems without ever losing their core values.
Delve deeply into the fundamentals of yogic practice, dissecting the whats and whys behind the different poses, meditations, breathing exercises and more.
Fitness expert Beth Shaw shares her expertise with audiences looking to use yoga as a way of keeping their body healthy and functioning properly.
In times of great stress and anxiety, yoga can inspire rest and relaxation necessary for continuous health and wellness.
46. Itsy-Bitsy Yoga: Poses to Help Your Baby Sleep Longer, Digest Better, and Grow Stronger
Author: Helen Garabedian
Author: Helen Garabedian
Use the principles of yoga to encourage an infant’s overall health and wellness - just be extremely careful when doing so!
When parents practice yoga alongside their babies, it reinforces not only their personal health, but strengthens their filial bond as well.
Parents who desire to get their children started early when it comes to yoga for the mind, body and spirit would do well to get them started with this easy-to-follow book.
Steve Ross’s cheerful little book covers every major facet of yoga and explores how they can help individuals find peace and happiness within themselves.
50. A Life Worth Breathing: A Yoga Master’s Handbook of Strength, Grace, and Healing
Author: Max Strom
Author: Max Strom
Prolific yoga educator Max Strom shares his perspectives on what yoga means to him and what it can do for his readership.
The ancient discipline of yoga’s devotion to keeping a person’s mind, body and spirit happy and healthy still resonates through today’s world. Heading to the library or local book store can yield a treasure trove of information that may actually help quell some of the stresses of day-to-day existence - and more!
Question: What Yoga Music do you Play in Your Classes or What Artists Do You Like?
Answer: (all can be found on itunes, amazon.com, etc.)
Jai Uttal (my go-to guy for "yoga music". Not too "out there", not too sleepy and relaxing, but not intense, either)
Krishna Das
Donna DeLory
Deva Premal (the most amazingly soothing voice, perfect for relaxation, meditation, slow yoga, or svasana/resting)
Soulfood
Govinda
Enigma
Random Current Hits & Artists Mixed Into my Playlist (i.e. Lady Gaga, R. Kelley, Black Eyed Peas, and whatever strikes me)
Answer: First, no one really cares about what you look like or don't look like, in yoga. I hate to break it to you, but the person next to you really doesn't care if you can't do a pose, if you're little out of shape, they've got their own thing going on, as it should be! When I am taking classes, of course I notice, in a very general sense, what the overall level of ability of the other students' is, but I don't pay much attention. Yoga is about going inward, respecting your limits, not comparing, not judging, being mindful and present with your practice. That said, just go for it. Really. The worst that can happen is that you actually have fun...kidding! Really, what's going to happen? You fall over? Who cares! We all fall! If you feel it is appropriate to discuss your situation with the instructor, go for it. If not, then don't and just do your best and if something doesn't feel right or you can't or don't want to do it, then don't. This is not the Army. You don't have to do anything you don't want to; it's Yoga!
Answer: I recommend looking into yoga classes where you may not necessarily think you'd find them, but often times, you will:
- The Public Library. Especially check branches which are either the "Main Branch", near a college or university, or in a part of town that is more affluent, or there's a high percentage of soccer moms/young children. Classes at libraries are usually free and although they are often only a few times per month, it's somthing.
- YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs. Again, same advice as the library applies. Call around, be persistent!
- Health Food Stores (especially smaller or independent-owned ones)/Food Co-Ops/Stores that are Hippy Dippy Crunchy Granola in Nature/Coffee Shops. Check the bulletin boards in these types of stores for yoga teachers advertising their classes at a grassroots level. Or ask the employees if they know of a yoga teacher. Someone always knows someone who teaches yoga in settings like this. Once you find out who the teacher is, call him/her and get the run-down. They may be willing to offer reduced class fees, or you can barter/trade.
- Barter/Trade Services with a Yoga Teacher (Trade a manicure for a yoga class, trade your knowledge of quickbooks, gardening, your cooking knowledge; offer to babysit the yoga teacher's children in exchange for yoga, offer to cook for the teacher, off to run errands, fix something around her house; but trade your services/skills/time. Most yoga teachers love trades & barter, so ask!)
- Check Craigslist under Services or Jobs sections-Yoga teachers often advertise their classes or services here because it's free; many times they will be willing to work with you on the price, so ask.
- Check independent/college/offbeat newpapers- i.e. CityPages, City Beat, those free newspapers you'd find outside of a coffee shop, find yoga teachers and classes that way and then make contact and ask for reduced fees.
- Intro of First Class is Free at Many Studios
- All You Can Do Yoga for $25 for 2 Weeks type of offers. Most studios offer this to new students.
Answer: This is a biggie for me because I have put thousands of hours into training, studying, learning, seeking, living & breathing all things yoga by way of Yoga Alliance recognized Teacher Training Programs. At the time of publication of this post, I am a RYT-200 with Yoga Alliance and my am studying for my RYT-500 which I will complete in February, 2010 and will apply for my RYT-500 Credential with Yoga Alliance in February.
If your teacher is not Yoga Alliance credentialed, it does not mean they are a "bad teacher"; however, it could. As in the case in many industries, and the health & fitness industry is no different, there can be diamonds in the rough (awesome teachers who aren't certified) and there can be bad apples (horrible teachers even though they are certified).
As a student, taking classes from a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher is one thing you can do to help ensure the level of instruction you receive in class is up to par and that the teacher is mandated to adhere to a Code of Conduct which is as Follows:
1. Uphold the integrity of my vocation by conducting myself in a professional and conscientious manner.
2. Acknowledge the limitations of my skills and scope of practice and where appropriate, refer students to seek alternative instruction, advice, treatment, or direction.
3. Create and maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for the practice of yoga.
4. Encourage diversity actively by respecting all students regardless of age, physical limitations, race, creed, gender, ethnicity, religion affiliation, or sexual orientation.
5. Respect the rights, dignity, and privacy of all students.
6. Avoid words and actions that constitute sexual harassment.
7. Adhere to the traditional yoga principles as written in the Yamas and Niyamas.
8. Follow all local government and national laws that pertain to my yoga teaching and business.
As a student, wouldn't you prefer to know your teacher has invested the time, resources, and energy it takes to become certified rather than someone who is just calling themselves "a yoga teacher"? Food for thought!
Question: Do Yoga Teachers Carry Liability Insurance?
Answer: If your teacher is not teaching in a studio or gym or other public venue where they would otherwise be covered by their employer's liability insurance policy, ask them what kind of liability policy they personally carry. I carry a 3 Million Dollar Aggregate Policy because god forbid something happened to a student, I would feel ethically obligated to pay for the student's medical care and treatment and would want to keep myself out of financial ruin. If your teacher does not have insurance, what would happen in the event you became injured? Make sure you know the answer to this!
Question: I am a Total Beginner, what classes should I look for?
Answer: Classes with the words: basic, gentle, intro, beginning, are your speed. And styles such as Hatha, Anusara, Gentle Vinyasa, Restorative, may be good fits for you.
Question: I want a really good workout. What classes should I look for?
Answer: Classes with the words advanced, flow, power, vinyasa, ashtanga are your speed. Beginners, please stay out of the more advanced classes until you're ready. Don't be a hero and waltz into a 2 hour heated power yoga class. You will injure yourself, take the teacher's time away from the more advanced students, and it will be a frustrating experience for you, your teacher, and the other students. Respect yourself, respect the practice, respect everyone's time and attend classes that are appropriate in level.
Question: What's the difference between the different styles of yoga?
Answer: For more in-depth information about yoga styles, and more than have mentioned here, go to the Yoga Journal website's "Yoga Style Guide"
While you're there, browse through the website; you will find a ton of yoga information.
Here's a Basic Run-Down of Yoga Styles-
Please Note the ** in front of some of the styles, indicating Vinyasa-style yoga. Vinyasa yoga combines a series of flowing postures with rhythmic breathing for an intense body-mind workout. Styles with an asterisk* are vinyasa-based, all are derived from ashtanga, the grandfather so to speak of vinyasa/power/flow yoga.
- Anusara - an aerobic form of hatha yoga similar to Ashtanga yoga but not as vigorous and with more awareness of alignment; emphasis on "opening the heart"
- **Ashtanga - very aerobic form of hatha yoga where the breath is synchronized with a progressive series of postures
- Bikram - similar to Ashtanga but at a more moderate pace, consisting of 26 poses; the yoga room is heated to help loosen muscles
- Iyengar - very precise with emphasis on proper alignment of the body
- **Jivamukti - highly meditative but physically challenging
- **Power Yoga - rigorous workout that develops strength and flexibility while keeping students on the move.
- Sivananda - sequence of 12 basic poses (with possible variations); pranayama (breathing exercises) is incorporated into the class
Question: Do you ever do Bikram or Hot Yoga?
Answer: I am not a huge Bikram fan as I believe most of what you do in a Bikram studio is sweat solely due to heat rather than the actual intensity level of the yoga. Basically, the heat that made you feel like you were working really hard. With ashtanga (which is what I gravitate toward), you will always get a phenomenal physical workout in, as well as the mental boost. No disrespect towards any Bikram lovers, that's just not what floats my boat quite as much. I do enjoy rooms to be warm, in the high 70s or low 80s, just not 100F Bikram-style. And I actually teach a heated power flow which I love. And that's the beauty of yoga and life...you have find what works for you and make your path your own.
Answer: Below is a list of Sanskrit names of some common yoga poses and their English meanings. (Recommended book: "How to Use Yoga" by Mira Mehta - Rodmell Press)
Names of Common Poses ("Asanas")
Standing Poses:
· Ardha Chandrasana - half moon pose
· Parsvakonasana - lateral angle pose
· Parvsvottanasana - extreme sideways stretch
· Prasarita Padottanasana - forward stretch with wide apart legs
· Tadasana - mountain pose
· Trikonasana - triangle pose
· Utkatasana - fierce pose
· Virabhadrasana - warrior pose (three variations)
· Vrksasana - tree pose (a balance pose)
· Ardha Chandrasana - half moon pose
· Parsvakonasana - lateral angle pose
· Parvsvottanasana - extreme sideways stretch
· Prasarita Padottanasana - forward stretch with wide apart legs
· Tadasana - mountain pose
· Trikonasana - triangle pose
· Utkatasana - fierce pose
· Virabhadrasana - warrior pose (three variations)
· Vrksasana - tree pose (a balance pose)
Inverted Poses:
· Adho Mukha Vrksasana - downward facing tree/handstand
· Halasana - plow
· Pincha Mayurasana - peacock tail pose/elbow balance
· Sarvangasana - shoulderstand
· Sirsasana - headstand
· Viparita Karani - restful inversion (legs up against wall)
Forward Bending Poses:
· Baddha Konasana - bound angle pose
· Janu Sirsanana - head-to-knee pose with one bent leg
· Navasana - boat pose
· Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana - revolved head-to-knee pose
· Paschimottanasana - seated forward bend
· Supta Padangusthasana - lying down finger-to-foot pose
· Upavista Konasana - seated angle pose
· Uttanasana - standing forward bend
Back Bending Poses:
· Adho Mukha Svanasana -downward facing dog
· Bhujangasana - cobra pose
· Dhanurasana - bow pose (2 variations)
· Eka Pada Rajakapotasana - one-leg king pigeon pose
· Matsyasana - fish pose
· Natarajasana - dancer's pose (a balance pose)
· Salabhasana - locust pose
· Setu Bandhasana - bridge pose
· Ustrasana - camel pose
· Ardha Matsyendrasana - half spinal twist
· Garudasana - eagle pose
· Gomukhasana - cow face pose
· Padmasana - lotus pose
· Savasana - corpse pose (a relaxation pose)
· Virasana - hero's pose
Me with Pattabhi Jois (Guruji), 2005 Encinitas, California.
His Last World Tour.
The Man Crediting with Bringing Ashtanga Yoga to the West
Scottsdale, AZ
Answer: Pranayama is, simply put, breathing exercises. But it is more than a mere exercise; it is a part of yoga practice that is considered as important as doing asanas (the physical poses)
Question: Do you use a yoga towel or rug?
Answer: I have used Lumi microfiber towels for years and they work very well for me, if I am perspiring, but as I have mentioned before, I am not a huge sweater. However, so far, I can vouch for this product holding up after hundreds of washes and years of use.
Question: What's your Favorite Yoga Apparel?
*Warning: Rant Ahead*
*Warning: Rant Ahead*
Answer: First, contrary to popular opinion and belief, I don't believe we need to spend an arm and a leg on yoga apparel. I have a few pairs of practice pants and shorts that I have had for half a decade and they were not very expensive when I purchased them. Under $50 bucks each and they have held up to thousands of hours of practice and hundreds of washes. I don't think it's right, normal, or in the spirit of yoga to be spending $100 or more on a single pair of yoga pants.
I also don't enjoy the fit of certain brands on my body or enjoy looking at others in certain styles and brands. I believe in a sense of modesty. I don't believe our butt cracks or stomachs need to be showing during yoga!! Have some modesty ladies; please keep all your goodies well-covered. If not for yourself, for your teacher who needs to come around and assist you during class and who does not enjoy staring at 20 butt cracks up in the air during downward dog from uber lowrise practice pants. Not cool. Please, cover up. This is yoga not a nightclub.
*Rant over. Thanks for reading, I had to mention that!*
Companies I love for clothing & yoga accessories:
BePresent. Their Lotus Mobility Pant, which is a longish Capri, is my hands down favorite pair of pants to walk around town in AND practice in. Who needs expensive jeans? Just give me my...
Prana -I love BePresent for their pants, and Prana is my Go-To for tanks/tops/t's
Tonic-Found at BodhiShop
Love Tan Jane- Streetwear with Funky Flair
If these don't scream Flower Child Earth Goddess, I don't know what does. But OMG these things are sooo comfy! And I want to buy the entire collection!
Love Tan Jane- Streetwear with Funky Flair
Question: What Resources on the Web to Find Clothing, Practice Mats, Rugs, Towels, Yoga Art, etc do you like?
Answer:
Answer:
Gaiam-Great for yoga clothes & props, and also eco-friendly housewares/linens/green choices for the home
Martha Stewart did an Entire Show on Yoga
Yoga Journal-Everything from Yoga Pose Names, Articles, Q & A, Practice Sequence, Shopping, Downloadable MultiMedia, Health, Wisdom, Tips, You Name it, YJ's Your Hookup!
Yoga Journal-Everything from Yoga Pose Names, Articles, Q & A, Practice Sequence, Shopping, Downloadable MultiMedia, Health, Wisdom, Tips, You Name it, YJ's Your Hookup!
Answer: No. Why would I? If I can lift my own body weight and hover against gravity, that is all the weight I need to lift. From my perspective and most yogi perspectives, if you can lift your own body, that's plenty. Everyone has to do what works for their body, but for me, no weightlifting is needed. I haven't touched a weight since 7th grade gym class.
Edited to Add: I am training for fitness competitions and shows and have begun weight training in April 2010. Prior to this, I had not lifted a weight in 20+ years.
Answer: I power walk with my husband and Skylar every day for about 45-60 minutes. We view this more as relationship & family time than we do exercise time, but yes, it is exercise. And, usually in the morning before anyone else is up, I will go for a 20 minute run or walk. Just to be alone with my thoughts and out of the house. To tally it up, I do about an hour of walking/running-based cardio per day and some yoga. Some days I do 15 minutes of yoga. Some days it's 90. On the more yoga-intensive days, I don't do separate walking/running cardio. Listening to your body and fitting yoga into your life, whether it's your entire "workout", a supplementation to it, or just a tiny piece of what you already do, is the goal of yoga; to find what works, at this moment, for you, and to go with it!
Answer: These are poses to work towards. I have been practicing yoga 10 years. Although I have not practiced every, single, day for 10 years, I have probably practiced 340 days a year, every year, for the last 10 years. The physical practice of yoga is like playing the piano, learning a foreign language, running, or hiking. In the beginning, no one sits down and bangs out a Beethoven Symphony or runs a Sub 3 Hour Marathon, but if you keep practicing, stick with it, don't give up, don't quit, don't get down on yourself, stay positive, then this will all come! And if it doesn't happen for you, because this is not something your body wants to do, then that's fine, too, because that is YOUR YOGA, your path, your reality, your situation, unique to you. Embrace yourself for who you are, both your strengths and your challenges, and don't compare yourself to others!
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This is a Guest Post About Yoga For Digestion that I wrote for Gena of Choosing Raw and it appeared Here on Her Site and I am Publishing it Here, too:
Hi Choosing Raw Readers! I'm Averie of Love Veggies and Yoga. When Gena asked me to do a guest post on her blog, I was flattered! I have so much respect, admiration, and appreciation for Gena and for all the knowledge she shares with us! Thank you, Gena, for extending this opportunity to me and I am so glad you asked me to post about a subject that I am passionate about: Yoga!
I went to my first yoga class in the year 2000 wanting to tone up, get some exercise, and "get a good workout in". After my first class, I was hooked, but it wasn't just because I was "getting a good workout in". Rather, I was drawn to the vibe, mystique, and the beautiful energy that is yoga. Although the physical poses were very awe-inspiring to me, I loved how yoga made me feel. Prior to yoga, I was no stranger to athletic endeavors from volleyball, basketball, track, running, hiking, swimming, you name it, but yoga was different.
Some of the things I have experienced in my life as a result of my yoga practice include:
- Increased Physical Strength & Flexibility
- Increased Overall Physical Fitness
- Becoming more Patient, Calm, Compassionate, Forgiving, Understanding, Empathic, and Kind. Not only to others, but to myself as well.
- Increased Mental Toughness, Tenacity, and sense of Discipline & Dedication to something outside of and much larger than myself
- Becoming more Humble
- Seeing the Good in All People and Things even when it seems impossible
- Finding the Balance between Strength and Surrender both on and off the mat; in physical pursuits and in interpersonal relationships and daily life
- The breathing techniques and connection to breath awareness help reduce stress & tension
- Improved Overall Health & Well-Being (Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual)
- Being More In Tune With My Body, With My Health, With my Physical, Mental, and Emotional Wellness
- The List can go on and on...But for me in a nutshell, Yoga is about looking inward, finding your true self, finding what works for you, not just on the mat, but off the mat and in your everyday life, too.
I don't want to make it seem like I walked in to class one day and the next day I walked out a fully enlightened being. No, quite the contrary! Anything worth having takes effort, patience, and perseverance, but the challenges inspire me to keep going, keep practicing, keep learning, and to stick with yoga. Actually, I couldn't imagine my life without yoga!
Gena asked me to Suggest some Yoga Poses That May Help with Digestion
What Types of Yoga Poses Can Help with Digestion & Why?
- Twists and forward bends are good for massaging the internal organs, stimulating the liver and kidneys which are our internal toxic filtering systems, and engage the digestive fire (or tapas = heat) in our bellies.
- Restorative poses and meditation help us to slow down and de-stress, bringing a conscious awareness to our bodies.
Certain asanas (poses) can help stimulate the stomach, pancreas and the intestines which will:
- Increase gastrointestinal circulation
- Increase food absorption
- Reduce acid
- Decrease gas
- Reduce sluggish digestion issues
Some Helpful Twists include:
Marichyasana A
Here's a Link to More Twists To Try if these are too "pretzel-like" for where you're at now
Here's a Lying Spinal Twist that is excellent for digestion
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| Instructions & Source |
Next, Forward Bends Are Helpful for Digestion, too.
Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
Here's a Link to More Forward Bends to Try
Finally, Here's a Link to Restorative Poses
Such as Child's Pose (Balasana) and Legs-Up-The-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani) which are great for digestion, too.
In short, all yoga is beneficial for our overall health and wellness. There are some asanas which are better suited towards different goals, however, I encourage you not to get hung up on doing the "right" pose specifically for digestion or for another particular malady you are trying to spot-treat or target, but instead, just start doing any yoga! Only good things can happen from it and as your practice unfolds and deepens, and as you become more proficient, you can then begin to hone it more specifically towards particular issues you may be experiencing.
For those of you with Questions About Yoga including DVD Recommendations, How to Score Free Yoga Classes, What to Do if You're a Total Beginner and How to Start, and tons of other information, please check out my Yoga FAQ's Post.
Finally, thank you again, Gena, for this opportunity and thanks to all of you who read this post!
Namaste, My Friends!
----
Haven't had enough Yoga Talk? Please see This Post where I answered some other common yoga questions. Do I have to be a vegetarian to do yoga? Is yoga a religion? And other fun stuff like that!
Reminder about My Yoga and Raw Vegan Foods Retreat!
August
This Summer in August!
Be there and get your Om Shanti Shanti on while eating your weight in veggies.
Stay Tuned For This Post to Grow if People Start Asking me the Same Questions Over and Over. I will post my answers here so you all can benefit!
Questions for You!!!!!
Is there anything You Want To Know that I Didn't Cover?
Has This Post Been Helpful or have I Helped Clear Anything Up for You?
Are you Inspired to Try Yoga? Do You Practice Already?
What other Questions do you Have??!!! (leave your email address in the comment field if you want a reply so I can get back to you)
Namaste, Friends!!!!
77 comments:
Love your answer to the question about being afraid of looking silly! I always used to worry about that when I was younger...then I realized, no one cares!
Thank you so much for this post Averie! I always have a million yoga questions :)
This is an amazing post! Reminded me to fit some more yoga into my life!
I LOVE the tip about not starting out in an advanced class. When I was first starting to attend classes, I thought "I'm in good shape!" so I would attend the more advanced classes. Even if the basic classes aren't as much of a "workout" they're crucial to proper form!
AND I love the tip about not giving up when you can't do tough poses. I'm still working, but the first time I got into a headstand (couldn't even do that as a kid!) I was ecstatic for the whole week!
Another tip is to look into college/university rec centers. My college's rec center charges $3/class for students and $5/class for non-students. So, Starbucks that'll last you 10 minutes, or an hour of amazing yoga that makes the rest of the day better? :)
WOW! This post is AMAZING, Averie!
Thank you SO much for all the time, effort, and wisdom you packed into this post. Yay!
I've been sharing it with my friends and followers on social media and I'll link to it soon as well.
This is a LOT of info - I'll have to chew on it a little at a time. LOL - It's a lot to absorb!
You're the bestest!
Hugs,
Michele
You covered everything and then some! Wowzahs!
I love yoga AND have never taken a real live class. It's a goal this year, even if it's at the rec center in town.
I love that your getting your 500 hour credentials! how amazing is that!!!
Thanks for all the amazing info. I am bookmarking this post so I can refer to it again. A lot to process!
Happy Monday
What a great post! Thank you so much for sharing your yoga knowledge with us. Seeing you in all the poses is definitely inspiring. :)
go write a boooook! Adding this post to my *favorites* right now :) I had no idea about the itunes free yoga classes! that's the best news I've heard all day.
love you my little ray of sunshine <3
This post is incredible! I loved reading about all of the different yoga styles and seeing pictures of poses! Thank you for spending the time to answer all of these questions!!
wow this post was INSANELY informative. love iiiit! i really really love when teachers play current hits in yoga classes. i took one one time where it was a lot of michael buble and it was such a fun class haha i found myself smiling the entire class :)
wow this post was INSANELY informative. love iiiit! i really really love when teachers play current hits in yoga classes. i took one one time where it was a lot of michael buble and it was such a fun class haha i found myself smiling the entire class :)
Thanks for all the info! I've tried yoga a few times and never loved it, but this makes me want to give it another try with a more open mind!
Wow, Averie, this was an awesome post! Soooo much info!
I was a dancer in my teens, so I was surrounded by competition... so when I decided to try out yoga in my late 20s, I did it from a DVD b/c I didn't want the stress of competition. I am glad to know that if I ever get the courage to try out a 'real' class that I shouldn't be so concerned about what others think... I've learned lots about not judging myself through yoga over the years, but I still haven't taken the plunge and gone to a class... maybe that should be one of the things I should set as a very near future goal.
Wow, Averie!! Thank you for putting so much time and effort into this post. You have given us so much useful information.
Ugh I so wish you could come teach me! I've done Bikram at a studio and ashantaga yoga at the gym.. neither one gave me a workout! I'm thinking it's the teacher.. come teach me please?? haha
I loved loved LOVED this post! It was so informative, but your passion really shined through. I miss yoga so much; this post really inspired me to consider reincorporating yoga into my life again
Wow girl! That was comprehensive!!! Thank you...you answered all my yoga questions. I actually bought a Sean Corn DVD and when I viewed it instantly realized I was in over my head. ;-)
Love the idea of finding some free classes or bartering for them to get started. Great suggestion!
Just got your email.. hope my comment goes through!!
This post is amazing.. so informative. Thanks for sharing all your valuable info!!
I love love love all the pics..I wanna take a yoga class (I have all the cute gear and a mat!)
What an awesome Q and A. Thanks for posting, Averie.
Holy smokes lady, what a post! I have to say, getting to know you over the past few months has been making me want to get back into yoga! I'm pretty sure my body wouldn't be opposed to it either...
You put so much thought and work into your posts. Its amazing how productive you are. Again I will say you the fittest most beautiful woman ever...seriously,,I would LOVE to be strong like u sometime...maybe YEARS from now...This post makes me a bit sad cause I dont do yoga...20 minutes lazy maybe 3x a week? I lack money, motivation...and ability...triangle pose is an accomplishment for me!
I love how strong and confident u are. I have been bothered lately by comments I see people leave on other blogs saying they "feel guilty" just for eating some sugar, or real chocoalte, or for eating sandwiches ....bothers me...but my bad...need to work on that..hope to be confident and focused like u one day.
This post is freaking amazing!! Thank you so much for this! So comprehensive!
<3 jess
xoxo
Hey sweetie! I finally got back from my trip and I was so happy to get online and find such a wonderful post about yoga. I am a huge newbie and would love to really get into yoga more. I think that you really answered a TON of questions that I had. I was really curious too about all the different types of yoga and I was unsure as to which one to start with. This is such a wonderful resource of information! Thank you so much for putting this all together.
Im so glad you noted as well about what level to begin with. I tend to just throw myself in the harder classes as I tend to think of myself being in decent shape. Good to know I need to start with the beginner classes. Dont need to hurt myself=)
After reading this I now have a really good starting base on what to start looking for in terms of classes too! Ive done some dvds one just to start with and have loved it. I absolutely cant wait to really start learning as much as I can about this.
Thanks so much for taking all the time and putting this together. I hope you had such an awesome weekend too!! xoxox.
Great post, Averie! I've done yoga on and off for years, but never as intense as your practice! I love it, but I find I get bored if I do it too often. I like the 20 minute yogadownloads for squeezing some in though. I also really like Rodney Yee's dvds and dave farmers podcast. Yoga to the people is iffy; i've done some good and some not so good. Wish I could go to San Diego for the yoga retreat! Sounds awesome!
OKay, Averie, I'm gonna have to bookmark this post. This is SO useful, because I am so ignorant about yoga yet want to do it because it looks "fun" and I like bending my body into twisty, painful-looking positions. Oh, and I say this with all seriousness.
This is my serious face: -__-
Phew! Epic post girl! I have to say, getting to know you over the past few months has made me want to start getting back into yoga. I'm sure my body wouldn't mind either...
Thank you! Thank you for this post! You know we are getting more into yoga, so thank you for the tips.
Great, great Q & A!
Wow...I think you answered just about every question I've had about yoga. I had no idea itunes had FREE yoga downloads?! Thanks!
Thank Averie for that amazing Yoga post! I recently started to get into Yoga and I'm addicted. It's so good for the mind and the body. I'm in love : )
xo
Jocelyn
http://peacelovenutrition.wordpress.com/
I love this post Averie! Thank you for taking the time to write this all out and explain it all to us :)
I was wondering if you lifted weights as well and found this super interesting " From my perspective and most yogi perspectives, if you can lift your own body, that's plenty."
I will start adding more yoga into my routine. I heard even 15 or 20 min a day is a great way to start the day!
XXOO
Whew- awesome post Averie! Its so great of you to take the time to get all this info together!! I'm so excited that you got to practice with Dharma Mitra- I've been wanting to take a workshop with him- he came to Kripalu a few weekends ago (but I didn't have the funds!) It must have been great!!!
One of the best pieces of advice- to just fit some yoga into life.. even if it's just for 15 mins.. so true! It's so easy to feel like if you don't have an hour- don't practice.. I've been trying to get better with this, and have really been setting a time each day to get out of life, and into practice! Have a great day- wonderful post and pics!!
holy moly!! this post should be printed and placed in every yogi center and cafe around town! you are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to this stuff, and this post just brought it all togehter! I think we all know where to go with any more yogi questions (if we have anymore!) thank you for the DVD recommendations I know I have asked you int he past, and thanjk you for the list! I have been looking for one...also that microfiber towel to put ontop on the mat itself!
have a great day, love!
Awesome post Averie, thank you so much for putting this all together and sharing!
Excellent Yoga primer! I too believe we should be watched and guided when we try new & ambitious activities. Yoga is so wonderful, but it can cause harm if not done properly.
A great instructor is crucial as you state in the beginning of ones practice. Even when we know the ropes in an activity it is imporatnt to have someone guide us to fix any bad habits we might have picked up along the way.
I am gonna go tweet and facebook a link to this post. You cover it all here. I cannot think of any other questions as this post is so thorough. Love the comment about the butt crack.....ewwwww!
Love all your photos...especially the top one! You shine with radiance and beauty, love your happy smile :)
Great post! I am a huge fan of barefoot yoga muself! I love their kids Hotei tees:)
Thanks so much for posting this, as I am getting back into yoga again. I am focusing more on Pilates, but I think yoga is a good compliment. I wish I could take a class, but it doesn't fit into my schedule or budget at the moment. Thank goodness I'm not a beginner. I'll have to check out some of your DVD recommendations :-)
What an awesome incredible post. Thank you so much for music ideas (I teach an indoor cycling class & am always looking for new music ideas). So good what you kept saying about self acceptance & yoga being a journey (I can hold plank for a few seconds - always working towards holding longer & stronger for plank, low plank & side planks). Great info - I will have to re-read & take some notes! Thank you!!
I'm not a yoga newbie, and I don't think there was too much here I didn't know yet, but it was still hugely informative, comprehensive, and just an awesome post Averie!! So well said. Plus, I really want those pants...the tie-dye ones. Fun!
Believe me, you are one inspirational woman. Thank you for that extremely comprehensive post!
I love your Yoga-Talk! That post is amazing and so helpful. I do have one question, do you have any pose suggestions to help open up my shoulders? I can't seem to find a yoga class that doesnt make them tighter. I have always had not-so-flexible shoulders and am trying to help lengthen those muscles to help loosen some tension in my neck and back. My email address is (jenpance@gmail.com) I'll look forward to your response! :o) Thanks so much for this post!
I loved this post, I've found it incredibly helpful so thankyou very much! Have a great week!
xxx
First of all: this is such fantastic post, thank you so much!
I can't believe how many amazing teachers you've met.. Guruji, Dharma Mittra..
I am a devoted jivamukti yogi (if there's something like that lol) but have recently become very interested in ashtanga as well (you know, all those crazy poses are fun to try ;)).
Holy lord! What a comprehensive post! I confess that I can't read it all now, but I have no doubt that I'll be referring to it often in coming months, Averie! Thanks for your care in presenting us all with such great info.
hey averie! thanks for this awesome post[: every question i even have is answered! you know whats really cool? my friend jojo's dad is rodney yee! so he came this summer and taught our WHOLE camp in a class. he was so nice and it was such a fun experience!i love all the photos too, you are so awesome with all your poses! have a great tuesday :) xoxo soph
Averie,
Oh my gosh, I have on a pair of BePresent mobility pants at this very moment, and I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Manduka mat. I've got the ProLite. Definitely the best mat I've ever used!
This post is awesome. Very informative. I have bookmarked it, and will direct people here with their yoga questions. Thanks so much for putting all this info. together!
Excellent Post today!
I wish there were more studios near me that offered beginner level classes at times I can make them. They tend to have those during the weekday daytime hours, and well some of us have day jobs :-(
Hi Averie this post was great so useful, I've been reading yours and Polly's blogs for a whiles and just signed up with some Kundalini yoga classes, this week will be 3rd of 5. I couldn’t find it on your blog and I find it a little confusing as in there's no symmetry ? But maybe I have the wrong expectations. Do you have any advice to offer ?
Julia
oh my gosh! you have really answered everything there is to know about yoga and more! you are so informed and knowledgeable, i really admire that. i have NEVER tried yoga and i really wish i just lived there so YOU could teach me :)
WOW!!! I am totally impressed by you and this post. You even motivated me to try some more classes. I've been to a select few and just couldn't get into it but I'd LOVE to love it. Thanks for the inspiration, advice, and incredible photos.
Wow what a wonderful post about yoga!!! U are the yoga queen lady!! Love it!!!
So sweet you took the time to do this q&a about yoga!!!
Hope your day is great!!! xoxo
What a fab post great info thank you! I did yoga before hurting mu=y back hopefully I'll get back to it, the photos are amazing your so good its scary! x x
WOW! Any questions that have ever come up in my entire personal training career have been answered in one of your posts! That is pretty impressive, and you seem like you are extremely knowledgeable about the subject as a whole. Your blog is great, i have read on and off for the past few months but unfortunately haven't commented until today! I will always refer back to this post, as well as refer my clients back to this post if they ever have any questions i cannot answer. I love how you define Yoga, and press that it is "YOUR" practice. That couldn't be more true in my life, as i am not formal with each and every practice or specific move, but thoroughly enjoy all forms of body-weight exercises and believe strongly in them vs. weight machines. Thanks Again, and i will make the attempt to comment much more! -Adam
"Why would I? If I can lift my own body weight and hover against gravity, that is all the weight I need to lift"
Even though I'm a weightlifter at heart, I LOVE this answer. I totally envy those who can throw around their bodyweight, as that's something I can't do. I'll never scoff at the strength of people who do yoga - it can be intense!!
Wonderful post Averie. I really appreciate the effort you put into it - but most of all, I love your passion for yoga. I want to come to San Diegoooo!!!!!!
I cannot afford a class and only have DVDs. What should I avoid doing?
was it weird doing yoga with 200+ people? I have never done yoga with more of an audience than Hubs and JJ. (well the cat if she counts) I have stranger anxiety! haha
I loved hearing about your day and your training with your yoga master.
I am loving yoga more and more because of your inspiration. but some days I just am burnt and want to just crash on the couch after JJ goes to bed. (like last night)
makes me mad at myself but I am only made out of so much energy and these past 2 weeks has been a push!
have a great day Averie! MUAH!!!
FABULOUS POST! i especially loved the information on the different kinds of yoga as well as the poses. i usually know all the sanskrit names, but every once in awhile, dave farmar throws in one i have no idea what it is!
thanks for the post mama :)
Wow this is the most complete post ever- it must have taken DAYS to write! Good for you!
I love that photo of you and the master where his hand is on your shoulder. You look truly happy and serene.
HEABIE gave me a yoga towel and I'm so excited to have it- it's perfect for travel so that if I don't want to bring my mat (I used to schlep it everywhere when I was "into" yoga about 10 yrs ago), now I can just put it on top of their skanky mats. And use it at home too- it's great.
PS Love love love Deva Premal- we have one of her cds and love love love it! Plus love that you intersperse contemp music too- my fave yoga instructor in Malibu does that also. so fun.
Wow, thank you for all of this information. This will be my study guide! I will even pass on to my sis -- we are both really loving beginnger yoga. It is also great to see that you are soo tall and so flexible. You give my inspiration to be the same way :) LOVE IT!
Finally made it over to comment!
Okay, first of all, the Praying Pretzel Pose? I can do it! Woo Hoo! Not sure what you might call that one. ツ [It's the pic right before the music question.]
LOVED reading through these questions, Averie. I have to say I agree with ya on the yoga dvd issue. It's sooooo much more beneficial to take a class with a hands-on teacher. I say this even though I began my own foray into yoga through a wonderful dvd for "curvy" women. You can read about my own beginnings here: Just Be On Your Mat.
Hard for me to believe that was just one year ago. You'll be pleased to know that I've continued a daily practice and still take 2-3 classes a week.
Your taste in music? Superb! My faves: Jai Uttal, Deva Premal, Dave Stringer, Enigma, Dead Can Dance, Gabrielle Roth & The Mirrors.
When I first began practicing, I sweat like a pig. Of course, I weighed 140 pounds more than I do now. No Bikram yoga necessary, thankyouverymuch. I tried a half dozen different yoga mats, but I was still slip sliding away. Yogitoes saved my butt.
Presently, I'm kinda obsessed with the Athleta catalog. I just want to wear all of their clothes, all of the time, on or off the mat. There's something so very satisfying about wearing "yoga clothes" out in public. It's a bit like keeping your PJs on all day, ya know?
I just made the No Bake Vegan Chocolate PB protien bars...can I just say so much better than any protien bar I have purchased! I will be making these every week. So yummy!
Congrats on winning the Be Present clothes from thedailybalance. How perfect that you won after just talking them up! Karma baby!
OMG! Averie- I was giggling when I began reading this post of what we talked about about allll the e-mails you get on a daily basis. Girl- I knowww you have issues with wordpress but if you have time one day (which I know you don't haha) but try it again! You could organize your recipes and your yoga tips and faq's and whatnot so much easier on wordpress. Just saying.
But I do commend you for taking the time to write such a lengthy, informative post about all things yogi! Most of it I was already aware of.. but even me, I learned a lot!
And yay! Yoga podcasts! Glad my info that one day was helpful. I rely on those podcasts. ;) Especially here at school!
Averie, this is a great post!!!! Loved the DVD and Music recommendations!
Is there something like imesh that i can download for musicc ?? i heardd imesh was filled with virus's ? i know most music downloads are illegal so do you know that are okay to use and will be safe for my computerrr .....? [url=http://gordoarsnaui.com]santoramaa[/url]
Your clothing rant really cracked me up. Sometimes I am really self conscious of my chest popping out of my shirt - I need a company to make small tanks with high fronts!
Wow! You are such an inspiration Averie! I have two young ones and I know how hard it is to keep up with kids and fitting in some daily exercise. You seem to have found the secret, please share haha. I've always been super athletic and played all sorts of sports but ever since having kids it all went downhill. What a different lifestyle it is with kids. Anyways, long story short, I injured my lower back about 3 months ago and have been seeing a physiotherapist. Would you recommend yoga as back strengthening exercises?
Thank you for this wonderful post. You definitely answered many great questions about yoga and then some. Sorry if my question is a repeat but I'm sure I didn't see it in the post. On to check out the rest of your inspirational blog :-)
Hi Averie,I love your blog! and love your attitude!
I have a question...I thought I read somewhere here that you got your Yoga certification through a Distance learning course? Ive been trying to find a distance learning course for months now and I was wondering who you used?
Thanks in advance:)
Namaste
Deborah-No, I did not do distance learning. In 2001 I did 200 Hours (6 weeks) in Costa Rica and in Fall 09/Winter 2010 I completed my 500 Hours here in Phoenix. Distance learning is great, but I didn't find any that would work for me. Yoga Works or Yoga Fit I believe offer something along those lines but do your research as I am not for sure.
Wow... your poses look SOO amazing. I'm encouraged by your post--I like yoga, but I haven't done it too much because I guess I haven't been patient enough to see myself improving!
Mandy Ingber's Yogalosophy - Jennifer Anniston's yoga teacher
Yoga for Beginners II DVD (with Patricia Walden) by Gaiam
Love this video... I also agree with your thought on not spending hundred's of dollars on yoga apparel a ot of the time I wear my running clothes.
i never really thought about it, but i have a feeling you are 100% correct about the hot yoga making you sweat from heat rather than exertion. i would much rather get my sweat on from a nice run!
I learned that you are in favor of having an instructor if you are just starting out practicing yoga. Good point.
i finally learned what bikram yoga was! thanks averie=)
This is such a great post! I have just gotten into yoga because of an injury and I am loving it! Thanks for the thorough explanation :)
Hi Averie,
Thanks for a great site! I have been teaching yoga for a year now. We have moved and have been super busy with life, 2 kids, learning a new language and all things moving. I have taken a break from yoga and spinning and I truly miss them. I don't know where any gyms are in our new city. I can't believe how soft my yoga muscles have gotten with just 6 weeks of a 'vacation'! If you have any advice on getting started again, I would love it.
Also, I am wanting to set a goal for my 40th birthday next April and when I found your info about the fitness competition you entered, I was thinking that it could be it! I have done a little research and don't want all the OCD around food and diet and non-healthy food things suggested that some trainers and competitors have written about. Thanks for your inspiration. I will come to your site again :) I didn't get a chance to see if you posted a day in the life of what you ate while you were training. If not, could you perhaps share a little with me about what you ate, quantities, how often etc. Thanks.
btw, my little boy says your daughter is beautiful (he's 3.5 yrs.) It was so cute!
Namaste,
Tracy
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