The Great Canadian Fitfest
"Finding your fit in YEG."
On February 4 and 5, Edmonton was one of the host cities for the Great Canadian Fit Fest. Over 70 different fitness-related businesses were featured over the span of two days highlighting not only the growth in volume of the fitness industry within our city, but also the large diversity of activities available. When the two masterminds behind the event, Steve Capp and Jackie Winther were in the early stages of developing Fit Fest, their vision was to “provide an unintimidating environment for adults of any age or fitness level to get out and try new types of physical activity available to them.” From seeing the event, and being present at Yogalife’s own exhibit on the Saturday, I can say that Steve and Jackie accomplished that, and then some.
Set at the Edmonton Expo Centre, upon entering GC Fit Fest, you’re hit with a high-energy blast of pump-up music coming from one of the hourly group classes held in the central square amongst the exhibits. Yogalife was privileged to host two classes over the weekend, with Cole Williston on Saturday guiding his group through an acro yoga session, followed by Amy Stuparyk who led a flow class on the Sunday.
A short walk around the perimeter of the group class space exposes you to a number of different health and wellness initiatives.
Styles of exercise exhibits were diverse and included activities such as pole dance fitness, parkour, axe throwing, kick boxing and Crossfit.
Probably the most viral on Instagram was a high intensity obstacle course involving monkey bars, wall climbing and carrying a cement ball on to a pedestal. Wellness industries including various massage therapy schools, physiotherapy businesses, float businesses and fitness foods were also a feature at the event.
It was weekend that exposed the Edmonton community to a whole range of fitness activities. Increased awareness of what’s available, through festival events such as the Great Canadian Fit Fest will hopefully aid those looking to get started on a journey to better health find their niche, or help those who feel stuck in a routine find something that makes exercise fun again. Yogalife had a great time meeting other health and wellness initiatives, and exposing our wonderful community to those interested in starting a yoga practice! For more information, and for updates on future events, you can check out GC Fitfest on their website:
Physiotherapy and Yoga
Written by our resident physiotherapist and yogi, Dean Tumibay
“Movement is medicine.”
At first glance, physiotherapy and yoga appear to be a perfect match. Both harness principles of alignment to safely guide individuals through postures and use exercise to improve movement and prevent injury. Both emphasize a balance between stretching and strengthening as a means of improving posture. Parallels can even be drawn between very specific yogic and physiotherapy philosophies.
The notion that “movement is medicine” has spurred the growth of both practices in the western world with more and more people turning to either their local yoga instructor or physiotherapist to aid in recovery of specific musculoskeletal ailments. The yoga industry has boomed with a new studio popping up within our city limits almost yearly and dedicated practitioners flocking to studios in search of improved posture, better athletic performance, stress reduction and in some cases pain relief. Physiotherapy clinics have seen increased traffic with many turning to them as their primary care provider when confronted with a physical limitation. Though ties exist between the two practices, as movement specialists, it’s interesting to consider what the physiotherapy perspective is on individuals using yoga to remedy their aches and pains.
As a newly practicing physiotherapist, and a former Yogalife Studios employee, I’ve had the opportunity to have a foot in both worlds. The understanding of bodily movement and proper alignment that I gained from physiotherapy school has enriched my yoga practice, and my understanding of yoga principles has likewise complimented the tools I use with patients as a physiotherapist. From my conversations with my peers in the physiotherapy profession, I’ve found that many physiotherapists recommend patients to yoga, but it’s important to understand the considerations that they make before deciding on whether a regular practice would be appropriate for your particular condition.
To help inform this week’s blog post, I looked to my colleagues as well as my former instructors for their opinions on yoga as a rehabilitative practice as well as the advice they give their clients before sending them to a community yoga class.
First of all, why do physiotherapists refer their clients to yoga? Do physiotherapists ever advise patients to avoid yoga?
If you ask any physiotherapist what the primary challenge of their profession is, one answer that would come to the forefront is exercise adherence. It can be a challenge to convince clients that a lifestyle change is necessary and that the daily practice of prescribed exercises is essential for optimal rehab in a population that is often looking for a quick fix. Yoga often incorporates movements and exercises that are similar to those that we prescribe to our patients, but they have the added benefit of being practiced in a community. Community settings and group programs can be strong motivators for individuals to maintain a regular exercise regime.
Andrea Bui, an Edmonton physiotherapist with Qi Creative indicates that she has referred clients to yoga in the past, especially when the client inquires about the practice. She comments, “yoga has a social acceptability with less stigma than physiotherapy. It’s more realistic that patients will continue to go to an activity program in a group setting than do a set of the same exercises at home alone.”
Aside from the appealing nature of being in a community setting, the actual practice of yoga itself addresses a number of different issues that physiotherapists encounter with clients on a daily basis. There is a lot of value to an exercise regime that has such a heavy emphasis on postural alignment compared to other more aggressive activities that may put patients at risk of further injury. However, like any activity, the appropriateness of yoga is primarily dependent on the patient.
Stephany Luu, an Edmonton physiotherapist at Lifemark Millwoods indicates that she “refers patients to yoga if their issues could be addressed by improving posture.” She also highlights the benefits of improved balance in postures that require a single-leg stance or a narrow base. “The balance aspect of yoga is great for my patients who have trouble with proprioception, or poor body awareness” but she admits “I generally avoid referring patients to yoga if they are already hypermobile, especially in their spine, and lack proper control of that area of their body”.
Judy Chepeha, an experienced Edmonton physical therapist and professor at the University of Alberta’s physiotherapy program reports “recommending yoga to almost all of her patients”, but is cognizant of the style of class the client is interested in attending. Despite being a fan of yoga for most of her clients, Judy admits she is hesitant to refer patients who, surprisingly, are already avid yogis. “My main concern is with those individuals who take more advanced classes, so I make sure I’m careful to understand what yoga means to different people.”
Despite being aesthetically pleasing, advanced postures can put our joints into compromising positions. Physiotherapists should be aware that many advanced yoga practices involve extreme ranges of motion, unconventional strengthening postures that may be stressful on the joints and repetitive movements that could exacerbate pre-existing injuries instead of aid in them.
So what advice did our panel have for those transitioning from the rehabilitative practice of physiotherapy to the community practice of yoga?
1. Make sure your physiotherapist is aware of what is involved in the yoga practice you’re interested in.
Make sure your physiotherapist has an idea of what kinds of movements are involved in the yoga practice you want to attend. If they have a general understanding of the practice, they can help determine how appropriate it is for your body and your specific condition. In some cases, physiotherapists can help inform you if modifications are necessary for certain postures so that they can be practiced safely.
2. Talk to your yoga instructor before the class. Let your instructor know of your limitations.
This includes what movements cause you pain, what movements you were told to avoid by your physiotherapists, and the nature and location of your injuries. Your yoga instructor can provide insight into which postures you can perform, and alternates for those that may not be safe at the moment.
3. If you’re new to the practice, try and book a one-on-one consultation with a yoga instructor first before committing to a regular class.
One-on-one yoga classes provide a perfect opportunity to develop a healthy dialogue between you and your yoga instructor. This allows them a full session to understand your limitations and provide personalized modifications for postures that may not be appropriate for you in their full form.
4. Keep your physiotherapist and yoga instructor in the loop.
Let them know what postures worked well for you, and those you found were too difficult. Let them know if there have been any changes in your pain levels, or if you’re experiencing unfamiliar sensations or movement restrictions after the practice.
Ultimately, when it comes to creating a smooth transition from physiotherapy to yoga, the responsibility lies with you, the client to keep both professionals informed. Your physiotherapist should be aware of what types of yoga you’re interested in practicing, and the nature of the practice. Your yoga instructor should be aware of your limitations. By keeping a constant dialogue with yourself, and those involved in your care, the more likely you will be successful in maintaining a safe, and beneficial yoga practice for your condition.
Monthly Beats: February Feels
here's a little moody soulful tune up for the balmy & cold days. the days you want to stay in the house and cozy up with slippers and house coats.
Revisit, Reconnect, Renew: Checking In With Your Goals
The New Year is officially in full swing and although the calendar is advancing, we may be noticing the gung-ho flame we entered 2017 beginning to dim. It can feel so empowering to have a fresh, new year ahead of us - a clean slate to fill up with all the hopes and dreams we have for ourselves.
Goals are not meant to be stagnant; goals are dynamic, organic intentions for our lives that morph and change just as we do. Without making excuses for ourselves, can we realistically revisit our game plans and reevaluate what still resonates and what might have been a little lofty or unrealistic? Here's 3 ways to check in with your goals to ensure your path is still, in fact, yours!
Revisit
This is one of the simplest ways to check in with yourself - revisit the goals and intentions you have been working with. If you have abandoned goals or just haven't been "making nice" on the promises you set out for yourself, don't fret. It's time to reconnect.
Reconnect
Notice the emotions that may come up when you check in; if guilt, shame or anger surface, ask yourself why you set these goals in the first place. Reconnect with the root of your intention and feel empowered to reframe why you originally set your goals.
Renew
Be honest. If it isn't realistic to hit the gym or a yoga class 5 days a week, why are you setting yourself up for failure? By connecting with realistic and attainable goals, we can start to create sustainable habits that have more space to grow organically. Say you'll run twice a week, not twice a day. After two weeks, revisit, reconnect and renew that goal to what makes sense in the present moment.
When it comes to matters of self, remember to tread gently yet firm, free of ego and full of truth.
Continuing Education With Sara Cueva at Yogalife Studios
Expand Your Knowledge With Our Continuing Education Yoga Workshops
Every time we step to our mats we deepen our practice. Whether this is in a yoga training, a regular public class, a home practice or a retreat, our yoga practice allows us to use our bodies as a laboratory to show up in new ways or refine old teachings. Yogalife Studios is incredibly excited to offer a new way to learn with our Continuing Education Program led by Sara Cueva. Starting in March, we will be offering 8 modules to come learn on a deeper level.
Learn On, Yogi!
The idea behind these workshops is to provide a place for students to continue their learning beyond their 200 hour training, or to start getting their feet a little more wet instead of or prior to a yoga teacher training. We are firm believers that yoga training does not necessarily have to garner you into a teaching position, but instead lead you deeper into your self - your health, spirit and body.
This workshop series will also serve as an amazing refresher for those of you out there that have been sitting in the teacher's seat already. The door is truly open to anyone who is interested in learning!
What To Expect
These lecture based workshops are tailored for students, aspiring teachers, and current RYT’s, and are intended to deepen your knowledge (and practical application) of the practice of yoga asana (postures).
Inspired by the effectiveness of formalized yoga teacher training educational models, these workshops will enable students to learn through lecture, observation, and practice, ultimately learning the postures the way teachers do. Each session will focus on different components of a yoga practice, broken down into their different asana families. Participants may come for just one, or even all 8 workshops.
Upon completion of all 8 sessions, participants will be able to safely sequence an asana practice for themselves (or if they are current RYT’s, for their students), including understanding of safety concerns and modifications/efficient prop use for each posture studied.
Topics explored in each session will include:
What: Understanding the benefits of each posture
Why: The intention of the pose determines the necessary energetic cues, learn to modify poses to meet the intention for all body types.
Who: Safety concerns, contraindications, and modifications for injuries/varying experience levels.
When: The recommended pacing between, and duration of time held, for each pose, based on different class styles.
Where: Knowing where in the practice to sequence the pose, building the practice for yourself and/or your students.
How: to intelligently align your posture, focusing on structural integrity of the muscles and joints.
Discount applies for any participant registering in all 8 sessions. These workshops are eligible for CEU through YACEP Sara Cueva, E-RYT 500. Categories fulfilled include Anatomy & Physiology, Teaching Methodology, Techniques, Training & Practice.
Modern Gravity: Where We Go To Float
A World-Class Float Studio in Edmonton
This is Modern Gravity, a float studio in the 'rapidly growing in the best way possible' Holland Plaza, just north west of the downtown core. Neighbouring this special spot is an array of unique small business that seem to capture a common theme: health and happiness! The lineup includes Lifestyle Meditation, Barre Body Studio, The Local Omnivore and Cafe Linnea, amongst others ranging from a flower shop to a wine store. You could really spend an entire day (or two) taking in all the great things Holland Plaza has to offer.
EDMONTON’S MOST TRUSTED SPACE TO GET NAKED AND REDUCE STRESS
Modern Gravity is a beautiful space with a clear mission: Create the best tools and environments to help reduce stress, enhance relationships and live happier. We recommend you...
Founded and operated by Matthew "Matticus" Smith and Jamie "Phillipos" Phillips, Modern Gravity is striving to deliver 'happiness made simple'.
"Escape the stress of modern day living in one of [their] world-class float tank rooms. The highest quality floatation therapy & sensory deprivation tank experience in Edmonton!
…with the best high fives in the business."
<<< We can attest to this fact.
The space theme is strong inside Modern Gravity. Matt is a wannabe astronaut and JP is actually a space wizard. Incredible.
So what is a 'float studio' anyways?
Modern Gravity describes the float experience as "an environment specifically designed to reduce immense amounts of internal and external stimulus so the mind and body can go into a super-ultra-recovery-mode and rest quietly in homeostasis." The process is pretty simple but the healing effects are vast.
Floatation Therapy, commonly referred to as “floating”, “sensory deprivation” or “R.E.S.T”, is essentially the perfect bathtub for physiological relaxation and stress relief; void of all light, sound and gravity. All of this is achieved by using a large, enclosed basin filled with skin temperature water and over 450KG of Epsom salt. - www.moderngravity.ca
Book in, show up, get naked, let it all go, get un-naked, chill and reflect.
There I am! JK, image borrowed from www.moderngravity.ca
Just one of the reasons I felt at home!
When I arrived at the studio for my first float, Matt took me through all the details. We had a good, genuine chat for about 20 minutes; these guys are so welcoming and easy to talk to so I felt at home right away. I have issues with anxiety and small spaces, so this was definitely a topic of interest to discuss BEFORE I was locked in (ps you're never actually locked in and can get out at any time). He explained I would be fully supported by around 1000 pounds of epsom salts (think a grand piano's worth), dissolved into water and kept at a constant temperature of approximately 34° Celsius (approximate skin temperature). Paired with the soundproof environment, your entire being is able to just let go. You aren't spending energy or attention on regulating your body heat or engaging any muscles so you can literally just relax down to the deepest fibre.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WERE LESS STRESSED?
Here's a photo of me in the float tank.
In my past experiences with meditation, unless I'm moving I generally start to feel anxious or uneasy. In the float tank I sort of just felt like a mermaid, wiggling around at first but then really feeling the most comfortable in stillness, enjoying the soft bob that accompanies floating. I found that I was startled "awake" on more than one occasion, which Matt explained was normal. Think about it - when do we ever relax THIS deep to the point of your body not needing to even regulate it's own temperature? He said that our breathing can slow down to 3 breaths a minute! So, naturally there were points in the float where I felt like my body was just checking in on me. "Caitlin, are you alive? You haven't been this relaxed or supported in... ever! Ok, you're good? As you were". It was beautiful.
If you have any questions about my experience, don't hesitate to reach out at caitlin@yogalifestudios.ca. For more information on the studio or floating in general, check out the Modern Gravity website or contact the float experts.
Happy Floating!
Give a Little, Give a Lot
The gift of yoga always delights
It's officially December and we're so excited to get into the full swing of the holidays. Colder days means warmer yoga - the best place to unwind as we settle into the chill of winter. Yoga is the perfect gift, for yourself or to share! Our holiday deals are just around the corner; the gift of yoga is an amazing way to encourage the special people in your life to discover their own practice or to treat an avid yogi who already knows the preciousness of this gift.
From December 10-12 you can purchase a 25 class pass at 20% off!
We've selected the best gifts for all the people in your life!
We're filling the studio shelves with our favourite treats to gift just about anyone, from aromatherapy candles from Woodlot to full gift baskets from Gather Sacred. Whether you're stuffing a stocking or splurging on a special one, we have a ton of delightful goodies to treat the people on your list. Enjoy 15% off all merchandise at Yogalife Studios from December 5-25.
Stay tuned for more details on our holiday offerings and be sure to mark your calendars starting December 5th to take advantage of the studio specials!
Wishing you a healthy and happy December!
Monthly Music Mix: December • Holidaze
Ready for the holidays... it's December. we can start putting those tunes on, do our little dance while we wrap up some Christmas gifts.
Check out this holiday tune list. Not so traditional Christmas music.
Sick? Stay home & rest. Why you shouldn't come practice at the studio when you're sick.
At Yogalife, to reap the full physical and mental benefits of practice, we encourage all our students to come on a regular basis. Yoga has been known to be paramount in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but in recent times, people have been practicing as a means of alleviating the symptoms of every day illnesses. This has been met with some mixed reviews. So the question remains, should you practice while sick?
From the viewpoint of our studio, our immediate answer is “no”. Our goal is always to provide the best experience possible for our students, so coming to practice while sick compromises that aim. While hot yoga is beneficial for detoxification, the humidity and heat, along with the closeness of clients can accelerate the spread of illness in the room. Pathogens thrive in a hot yoga room, no matter how well we try to maintain the cleanliness of the studio.
Consider this: we spend a significant portion of our class forcefully exhaling, and if ill, any airborne pathogens can travel quickly to nearby practitioners who, at the same time, are inhaling deeply. Heat also has the physiological effect of opening up the skin’s pores, further exposing our bodies to the environment, so any physical contact with bacteria or other viruses can result in immediate illness.
Practicing hot yoga while sick may also aggravate any symptoms one may be experiencing. In the online article, “Yoga and Your Immune System”, Kreg Weiss explains:
“[In yoga] the energy highly needed for your immune system is instead being transferred to the muscles to create movement. This energy is depleted from the body either as mechanical energy (movement) or as heat. This transfer of energy strips the immune system of precious energy resources and begins to limit the immune system’s capacity to produce antibodies.”
So while practicing in the heat may temporarily alleviate symptoms, and provide that feel-good high that only Hot Flow can provide, it may be short-lived and, in the process of healing, make things worse.
So before practicing at the studio while feeling ill, consider your fellow students and whether it may compromise their yoga experience. Also consider whether the practice will benefit your body. For more information on practicing while sick, read the full article by Kreg Weiss: http://kregweiss.ca/2011/11/11/yoga-and-your-immune-system/.
Teacher Feature | Keia Dreger
Meet Keia.
This sparkling gem has been a part of the Yogalife family since day one at our North studio. You can find her guiding powerful hot flows and soulful, relaxing yin classes, as well as out and about in the community working her way through a variety of homegrown festivals and her own event, Mythos: A Springtime Fair. She's an adventurer with a passion for community and health, plus she makes a mean raw chocolate bar.
Read on to learn more about our girl Keia!
How did you get your yogic start? Who brought you to your first class, what was that like, and where was it?
My mom. I was probably 10. It was a community hall class just across the street. I remember thinking - that's a whole lot of ladies wiggling their butts in the air. And then I learned what downward dog was. I started really practicing with my sister as a teenage, around when Moksha first opened in Edmonton and you'd have to be there almost an hour early to make sure you got a spot. It was life changing to say the least. I wanted to be a music video director and set designer at the time. After my first few classes I knew I needed to pursue yoga further instead.
Share a favourite quote, lesson, or teaching that inspires you.
You start dying slowly
if you do not travel,
if you do not read,
If you do not listen to the sounds of life,
If you do not appreciate yourself.
You start dying slowly
When you kill your self-esteem;
When you do not let others help you.
You start dying slowly
If you become a slave of your habits,
Walking everyday on the same paths…
If you do not change your routine,
If you do not wear different colours
Or you do not speak to those you don’t know.
You start dying slowly
If you avoid to feel passion
And their turbulent emotions;
Those which make your eyes glisten
And your heart beat fast.
You start dying slowly
If you do not change your life when you are not satisfied with your job, or with your love,
If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain,
If you do not go after a dream,
If you do not allow yourself,
At least once in your lifetime,
To run away from sensible advice…
What's your favourite music to practice to (or do you prefer silence!?)
- Downtempo, jazz. No lyrics or as minimal as possible.
Your favourite books, yogi-inspired and fiction.
- Women who run with the wolves - Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes - PURE GOLD!
- If you need a decent yogic read - Do Your Om Thing - Rebecca Pacheco
- The Pursuit of Happiness - Dalai Lama
Tell us about your first teacher training.
I was fresh 19 when I left Canada to travel and study for three months at Pyramid Yoga, on the island of Koh Phanghan is Thailand. It was purely a soul journey, my first time leaving the country on my own, and was probably the happiest memories of my teen life.
Where's your favourite vacation spot?
Oh so many. I love camping and BC as well as snowboarding in The Rockies. But honestly, anywhere with big trees makes me happy. I'd like to live in the jungle, wake up to bird calls and maybe the sound of a running river. Central America has definitely given me that. The ideal is to make that home, not just a vacation.
What is your favourite meal to make and share with friends?
Chocolate. Does that count as a meal? I love making raw healthy chocolate for my friends as well as for my business. If we are talking real food here though, I'd have to say I make a mean veggie poutine.
What's your favourite pose/sequence/area of the body to work on?
I love heart melting pose. Every class it's a given. Nothing else opens your chest and shoulders like it and really creates a space where the only true path is surrender and breath. We spend so much time hunched over, sitting at desk, checking our phone and facebook, driving... nothing like holding ourselves in the exact opposite expression for a while to bring balance to our bodies. I like going into deeper tissue, long holds and breathe. I don't like feeling rushed or like I need to keep pace with someone else. I want to make space for myself and those I teach to have enough time to feel and click into the "ah" moment of every pose.
Who inspires you?
My Dad. Always.
What is your favourite festival to attend?
I love feeling at home at Astral Harvest, as my Edmonton community thrives there. The Field in Winlaw is wonderfully homey as well.
If you could study with one person who would it be and why?
Okay this ones tough. I want to study EVERYTHING.
Hands down I'd love to spend a day picking Nassim Haramein's brain. That is if he could translate Quantum Physics into something digestible for my brain. If not I'll take Patrick Stewart so I can learn the secrets of Star Trek and space. Or maybe Suzuki.... Man there too many brilliant people to study with I literally want to learn all the things!
What is the best concert you've ever been to?
I've always been a pretty big metal-head. Seeing All Shall Perish or Protest the Hero was pretty up there for me. I honestly have such an eclectic taste in music though so it's hard to say which was the "best". I really love going to my room mates dubstep/grime shows. Local stuff is where it's at.
Where's the next place you want to travel?
Ill be in Panama next winter studying business at an Eco Village called Kalu Yala.
Share your favourite self-healing practice.
Trees, fresh air and time to be alone and process. You already are innately designed to heal, your body/mind is doing it all the time whether you are thinking about it or not. Create the space and make the time to allow it to do what it does best. Healing doesn't need anything too fancy, it needs the space, time and priority.
Share one of your life goals.
I dream of homesteading. Growing vegetables. Working with my hands. Going slow and with intention. Making really good soup. Building houses. Creating art for the sake of self expression, Caring for animals. And living right smack dab in the heart of the wilderness.
Stay Healthy, Eat Your Greens!
Mama always said...
When it comes to smoothies and fresh juices, we believe the greener the GREATER! The more plant-based nutrients you can pack into one glass, the better. Think of your fridge or grocery list like your medicine cabinet - achieve wellness by fuelling your body with the right stuff. A simple green smoothie in the morning or packed for later in the day is the perfect 'multivitamin' to boost your immune system and stay on track with your health.
Eat Your Greens!
Leafy greens are packed full of vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting phytochemicals. Try adding kale, spinach, parsley, mint or cilantro to your green concoctions! Green foods are low in sugars and packed with fibre and water, helping to regulate your blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Not everything in your green drink has to be green; the higher the green content the more nutritious but sometimes you need a few other flavours to break it up. Here's some other amazing additions that boost flavour and still pack a health punch:
- fresh-squeezed lemon, grapefruit or orange
- honey
- apple
- any berries
- cold tea
- watermelon
Nurtured, Centered, and Relaxed
Tension is who you think you should be.
Relaxation is who you are.
Nurtured, Centered, and Relaxed: A Restorative Yoga and Meditation Workshop with Emily McNicoll
Life can be busy. Culturally we have a tendency to be action orientated. Our to-do lists seem long, thoughts abundant, and our ability to truly connect to the present moment may be lacking. It is in the present moment however, we can begin to connect with a patient, beautiful, quiet sense of being. Within that sense of being we can return our nervous systems to a place of ease, our minds to a place of peace, and our hearts to a place of thankfulness and celebration.
Benefits of Restorative Yoga
- Balances your nervous system
- Help to heal pain and emotional injuries
- Quiets your mind
- Boosts your immune system
- Enhances flexibility and opens the body
- Gives you a deeper understanding of how and where you carry stress
Please join Emily this Saturday, November 5th in this three hour exploration of nurturing restorative yoga, simple pranayama (breathing exercises) and centering, guided meditation. Your body is sure to feel relaxed, your mind to feel at ease, and your whole being tenderly cared for. No previous experience needed.
Nurtured, Centered, and Relaxed: A Restorative Yoga and Meditation Workshop with Emily McNicoll
- Saturday, November 5 || 2:30-5:30pm
- Yogalife Studios North
A bit about your instructor, Emily McNicoll
Yoga has introduced me to a better version of myself. I've met a kinder, more loving, less reactive, compassionate human. It has gifted me with stronger boundaries yet softer edges. I've uncovered a grace, a greater thirst for adventure, and better sense of humour, thank God. The practice has helped to widen my heart, humble my head, and thankfully introduced me to a woman who believes in herself.
Teaching yoga allows me to create an inclusive environment in which humans can foster a relationship with the best version of themselves. I hold a sacred space for people to celebrate what makes them unique, beautiful, and authentic. My hope is that my students feel empowered, fall deeply in love with themselves, and inevitably know the gift of helping other humans celebrate their own lives.
Perhaps most important of all: I have been shown that I am in no way entitled to this breath, this Earth, or this body. Everyday it is my responsibility to pause, bow my head, and say "thank you" for all that I have been gifted. Our planet has graciously shared her space with me and I am forever grateful.
MONTHLY BEATS • Sunday Love
For our November playlist, we made a mix for you to enjoy on a Sunday. To sing to, to relax to, to dance to...
Check it out. Sip on your coffee, tea or mimosa.
Put together by C Hui.
Yoga for Athletes
Yoga for Athletes by guest blogger, Carolyn Fallon.
Throughout most of my life I have been an athlete of some kind – whether it was participating in various sports in school or playing recreationally on different club and intramural teams in and after college. As an avid athlete, I find that there are other aspects that are part of being an athlete than just the physical skill that each particular sport calls for. There is a need for various characteristics personality-wise, but what I find is extremely important no matter what sport I am playing is the need to be fit and in shape in every way possible. As I have (yes, I will admit I have been out of college for a few years…) gotten a bit older, I have come to find that yoga is a great activity that allows me to be fit regardless if I am playing sports still, and also helps me have an edge over all the athletes out there that believe there is no “real use” for yoga!
Of all the workout styles, yoga is the oldest and most comprehensive practice combining weight-bearing exercise, cardiovascular endurance and meditation. Many people associate yoga with general fitness or just for people who “aren’t athletic”, but a growing body of literature on the effects of yoga on athletic training is changing this. Researchers have found a number of unique and positive results that have come from athletes adopting a regular yoga routine.
Yoga begins with a focus on increasing self-awareness. It starts with the control of breath. Once the individual has learned the use of different breathing styles effectively, these are incorporated into both static poses and dynamic movements that differ based on the particular school of yoga. Once these beginning aspects of yoga have been mastered, athletes can begin to use yoga to propel themselves past the workout plateau by increasing athletic strength and flexibility, while also protecting themselves from various injuries.
Yoga and Strength There are all kinds of ways that yoga can increase an athlete’s strength, training potential and even their recovery time. Just from the practice of controlling one’s breathing, results have been found in the increased strength of people’s grips. Additionally, as athletes become more practiced in yoga they will begin to move in to more vigorous types of yoga, such as power yoga and ashtanga, which will demand more exertion from them physically, and in turn improve their strength over time. Furthermore, because specific sports tend to emphasize certain muscle groups at the expense of others, yoga allows athletes to increase their core strength (and seriously, who doesn’t want that?!) and ultimately optimize their overall training efficiency!
Yoga and Flexibility Athletes have more to worry about than just muscle strength. The tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues of the joints must be trained to handle the extra work of the muscles. Unfortunately, athletes often face the reality of compromised joint health after only one or two decades of training! This problem is largely preventable with the practice of yoga. In fact, many orthopedic surgeons attest that yoga is excellent for strengthening both flexibility and balance. I think we can all agree that these are both pretty important aspects for any type of athlete!
Yoga as Injury Prevention
No matter what sport is involved, the constant movement and exertion that is expected of an athlete’s body can be exhausting. Exercising in general can make one’s legs, back, shoulders, and many other body parts feel sore and tight. Restorative yoga can help athletes to get back to their normal range of motion, which prevents future problems from occurring the next time they are active. Another benefit of yoga in injury prevention is the effect of increased circulation and reduced swelling which allows athletes to return to normal training without a hitch.
Yoga has so much to offer the modern athlete! It combines a body-focused meditation with complete joint and muscle workout, and has proven results that include better muscle coordination, faster recovery times, reduced fatigue due to efficient oxygen use, improvement to long-term joint stability and a reduction in athletic injuries. With so many benefits coming from the practice of yoga, what athlete wouldn’t want to try it out?!
Hone Your Happiest Heart: 3 Poses to Experience Your HeartSpace
The heart is a beautiful place for space.
Our yoga practice reminds us constantly to make space: make space in our life from what doesn't serve us; make space in our tissues through asana, breath and awareness; make space in our mind by quieting our thoughts and focusing on a single intention. We can let this idea of 'making space' influence more areas of our life as we clarify and simplify our surroundings, our things, our schedules. When we look at all the areas we could, in fact, make space - clear out and refresh - the opportunities are endless. May we suggest starting with the space of your heart, your centre, as a beautiful place for space.
Only one book is worth reading: the heart.
~Ajahn Chah
The heart is a 3D organ (like all organs!) and should be regarded as such when we think about creating space. Translation: we're not just opening the front line! Eagle arms are an amazing way to bring space into the heartspace that lives in the back body. Invite your breath into the back of your heart; visualize the expansion along the skin of the posterior wall of your heart and experience the sensation of stretching from this place.
Backbends are a beautiful way to move into your heartspace. If you are moving from a standing position, start in your feet, grounding into the earth to create clear stability. Backbends require trust, a quality that the heart certainly appreciates. When you are grounded and aware you are able to move more safely and freely into this sometimes vulnerable place: the front of your heart.
Lift the front seam of your chest, roll your shoulders down your back and create length up and out of your waist as you gently press your hips forward. Enjoy freedom around your collarbones and ribs as your breath flows into these spaces. Ahhhh!
Give your heart the space to radiate.
An energetic quality of the heart is that it radiates. You can feel warmth in your chest when you experience feelings of love and joy; you can also feel a withdrawal of space or tightening in times of stress or emotional pain. If we come back to the 360 degree visualization of the heart we can relate to how beneficial child's pose is to create space all around the heart - to let it radiate.
Radiate Love.
Draw your hands to the top of your mat and relax into your elbows as you sink your forehead into the earth and relax your belly through your knees. As your hips sink back to your heels, invite your breath to wash down your spine into your tailbone, encouraging the heart to radiate outward in all directions with this breath. Breathe to expand your ribs wide, to draw your shoulders down your back. Creating this physical space with breath will let the heartspace soften and radiate in all directions.
All yoga can be heart-focused. There are certainly shapes you can make to target this space physically, but you can hold intention and awareness in your heart always, directing your breath into the centre of your heart and radiating out from that place.
Wishing you a happy, spacious heart 💖💖💖
MONTHLY BEATS • love us some deep practice beats
Check out our little monthly mix for October. Practice a full deep flow with this movement provoking playlist. Love yourself, set up your mat, your music and get your sun salutations on.
This playlist is curated by Yogalife's own Caren Hui - studio owner.
BLOOM Festival 2016 October 13 -16th
Photos by Des Iles Photography
It's that time again! The time to BLOOM together with our amazing and vibrant YEG (and beyond!) yoga community. We are counting down the days til this treasured local event kicks off; 4 days of yoga, workshops, keynote speakers, concerts, celebrations alongside lifestyle, wellness and entrepreneurial workshops in the heart of Edmonton's Rivervalley at Fort Edmonton Park, Alfred Savage Centre and other local venues.
BLOOM 2016 is a 4 day immersion of yoga, music, meditation and inspirational keynote speakers designed to make your LIFE BLOOM.
Be ready to MOVE and BE MOVED.
Myrah & Robindra, the beautiful humans that bring us Bloom!
This year's Bloom Festival headliners are world renowned Yoga instructors Janet Stone and Nicki Doane alongside an incredible array of local favourites including Sarah Zandbeek, Michele Theoret and Cole Williston (to name a few). Not into the physical practice of yoga? That's ok! The keynote talks and experiences don't require a sticky mat or yoga pants so if you are into living the life of your dreams, meeting inspiring people and building the Edmonton Community, JOIN US!
The Bloom Celebration Gala (not to miss) takes place Saturday, October 15th and features the musical stylings of Dj Drez, Sheela Bringi, Poirier, Marti Nikko, Waymatea Ellis, Vik Maraj and more guests. The Bloom Celebration Gala is included in the 4 day, 3 day and 2 day passes.
Find your Yogalife Studios team throughout the weekend and be sure to come get a hug!
Raw, Vegan and Packed With Energy
Superfood snacks for the go go yogi
su·per·food
ˈso͞opərˌfo͞od/
noun
a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.
One of our favourite tools in the kitchen has to be the food processor, that instrument that allows you to throw it all in, mash it up, keep it raw and get creative. Superfood energy balls are one of the easiest, tastiest and healthiest snacks out there - the more you add to them the better for you they become!
We had a gander through our cupboards and found the following to create these raw, vegan (and mostly organic!) treats:
- cacao nibs
- shredded coconut
- gogi berries
- leftover trail mix
- pitted dates
- pumpkin seed butter
- raw pumpkin seeds
- hemp hearts
- ground chia seeds
The glory of keeping your cupboards stocked with some of these suggestions is that not only do they mash up beautifully into little energy ball snacks, they double as smoothie additions, salad toppings or an extra flare to your stir fry! Here' some other suggestions for a superfood-stocked kitchen. Keep in mind, some work better in energy balls than others! We're just trying to get the wheels turning.
- dried blueberries, cranberries or apricots
- maca powder
- flax seeds
- seaweed
- kale
- mangosteens
- black garlic
- nutritional yeast
Keep this list on hand as you cruise through the grocery store, adding a few of these nutrient-packed options to your cart each time you shop. Growing the collection is fun and really good for you. Win win!
Empowered Body Book Launch
Yoga Night in Edmonton!
Last week a bunch of beautiful friends from the Edmonton Yoga Community and beyond gathered to celebrate the launch of Michele Theoret's new book, 'Empowered Body'. Michele is the creator and primary facilitator of Empowered Yoga and Lifestyle, an organization that "empower[s] students through experience, movement, meditation, and education to become more engaged in their moment-to-moment experiences, transforming the way they show up in their bodies and life" - www.micheletheoretyoga.ca
The event was hosted at the Mosaic Centre in south Edmonton, an amazing net-zero building that is home to some really neat spaces, including Workshop Eatery who supplied the yummy snacks for the evening! With tons of natural light, earth elements and glowing yogis, this night was simply divine.
The Event
Aside from the awesome snacks, space and company, we were all really there for one reason - Michele! She took her time to reconnect and give personal thanks for the support, greeting each and every one of us at the door with a huge smile and hug! The highlight of the whole event was the speech Michele delivered, drawing on her work over the past 20 plus years. Many of the Edmonton yoga teachers in the room were nodding along as she shared anecdotes of her own learnings, reminiscent of trainings past they had shared with Michele.
The Message
Transform the way you show up in your body and life. Connect to your inner compass. make empowered choices. live on purpose. Lasting health and vitality is a result of awareness, alignment and integrity.
As yogis, these are words we can get behind. Michele, we are SO proud of you and cannot wait to dive into 'Empowered Body'. Thank you for showing up in our lives, in your life, and for bringing us all together to celebrate! From our family to yours, namaste.
Purchase your copy of Empowered Body by Michele Theoret here!
Edmonton Hot Yoga Community, We Love You!
The Edmonton hot yoga family is strong
Let's face it, Edmonton has had an interesting summer for weather this year. We've been subject to some scorching hot days, crazy thunder storms and humidity like never before! As yeggers, we know this all over weather is par for the course, so it doesn't shock us over here at Yogalife Studios when we see your shining faces come through the door multiple times a week to get your hot yoga fix. We love providing you humidity addicts with another hour in the heat to stretch out and relax from your day. The Edmonton hot yoga community is unstoppable!
Here's a few reasons why WE love hot yoga as much as you do - a reminder to why we continue coming back to our mats even on the hottest, sweatiest days in Edmonton. Check out our full list of yoga benefits here!
Detoxification
All yoga is cleansing, but hot yoga allows our body to flush out toxins through the skin because, well, things get SWEATY! Detoxification year round is important and summer is no exception. Weddings, parties, barbecues and all sorts of other fun, food-and-drink-filled festivities call for a few hot yoga classes a week to keep our systems in balance.
Going Deeper
When we feel safe we feel open; the heat of the hot yoga room warms us to the core and allows us to begin opening up deeper, safely. When our muscles are genuinely warm, we can approach the postures from a safer place. With the body feeling more limber, we can try to go for that bind, or deepen that back bend. Sometimes we surprise ourselves with the willingness our bodies take on in the heat! In the same breath, it is incredibly important to always listen to your body and beware of going past the "edge" of your pose. Know that your body is more open in the heat and respect your boundaries.
Letting Go
The heat of the room can be overwhelming at times, and the amount we sweat can be even more alarming. When we embrace the sweat and settle in with the heat, the practice becomes that much more enjoyable. We are the Edmonton hot yoga community for a reason - we love to sweat and we love being in the heat! If you are newer to the practice, don't stress if you don't let go and love these things right away. It often takes a little while to become comfortable with the inevitabilities of hot yoga - keep coming back to your breath, take breaks, and reach for that water bottle whenever you need! Chances are, you're going to feel amazing at the end of the class, especially if you listen to yourself and take those breaks when you need them. In this practice we not only let go of the "omg it's way too hot" or "wow I'm sweating so much, this is gross" - we let go of needing to be something, or "keeping up", and we embrace exactly where we're at. We let go of the ego, we embrace ourselves.
Thank you for creating this Edmonton hot yoga community, for continuing to make it to your mat to sweat it out, connecting with yourself and everyone in the room. Keep it up!
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