Revamp Your Diet

The food we eat has a direct result on our health and our emotional life. Sometimes even when we maintain a generally healthy diet, we can hurt ourselves in other ways. For instance, when we feel tired we reach for caffeine or sugar to "pick up" our mood. But these substances often create "crashes" that leave us feeling worse than we did to begin with.

Once again, yoga can help. The next time you need a pick-me-up, don't automatically reach for that dietary crutch. Instead, try a natural stimulant, like a quick walk in the sunshine, some deep breaths of fresh air, or your favorite yoga pose. Your favorite breath technique (pranayama) can also help oxygenate—and wake up—your body and mind.  ~ Yoga Journal, January 2012

Facing Fears

I went ice skating last Thursday with Kurt and some friends. Lynn and Dale 'grew-up' in Wisconsin, and as most of you know, my husband, Kurt, is from Michigan. Well, I am from Georgia. Enough said.

I watched them glide effortlessly in and out among the other skaters while I shuffled (yes, you can shuffle on ice!), along the rink's outer border. You know. Just in case.

My friend, Lynn, at 60 years old, was jumping, spinning and skating backwards. I was in awe. The fact of the matter was since I had never learned as a child, I was just plum scared. Afraid of getting hurt.

Having pity on me, Kurt came along side me and took my hand. He gave simple instructions, and with the stability of a slight touch, I found my sea legs, whoops, I mean skate legs! I was bending into my knees, pushing off with one leg while taking a long glide with the other. It wasn't by any means a pretty sight, but I was skating! And as long as I didn't gather too much speed, I was comfortable and felt, well, safe and encouraged.

I thought how much our lives are like this...when we are fearful. We cling to what we consider safe and watch in envy those around us who are enjoying life! Living life! They are gliding along effortlessly. And here we are - stuck...just shuffling along. Around and around in the never-ending circle. That is until someone comes along side us and encourages us.

Do you have a vision for your life and want to do something greater than what you've been doing? Are you going to cling to the edge of the rink and watch everyone else go by, or will you be one of those rare individuals who glide out on the ice and refuse to live in fear?

May be you don't have a friend or even a family member who is willing to walk along beside you through your fear. Fear is always going to come against us, but I would encourage you to look beyond your fear and see a friend in Jesus. He is willing to hold you, touch you with the slightest touch to bring a sense of calm AND strength to face any fear that is holding you back from living your life to the fullest. Jesus tells us to take courage because of who He is!! He came to give us hope and the power to overcome - Refuse to yield to the fear and remain stuck! Take your first step of many this new year, and glide on toward joy and freedom!!

Philippians 4:13
New Living Translation (NLT)

"For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength."

Winter Yoga Series

 Yoga WINTER SERIES Schedule - January and February 2012:
All classes are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. I am here to help you! Come with a open heart and mind! If you have a mat, please bring it with you. I also have a limited number to share. Wear comfy clothes you can move in, and bring water. Also, if you have a light fleece blanket, block and strap, bring them as well; these are helpful props to have on hand. You can find them all at Wal-mart. The block and strap set is about $11 and the fleece blankets are $6. If you need assistance with acquiring props, please let me know. After the first of the year, I will no longer carry props for everyone - just a few for new students. I hope you understand.  Thank you!
If you are new to yoga or just new to class, come about 10 min early to your first class.  Then we can get to know one another, and you will have time to fill out a registration/release form.
I am looking forward to a great 2012 - expecting God to show up in our lives in a HUGE way!  Come enjoy the journey!!

Shalom,
Pamela

Tuesday 9:15 am - Westside Community Center Six Week Series
Yoga for Beginner and Intermediate Levels - Mats provided / $6 per class
January 17, 24, 31
February 7, 14, 21


Tuesday 10:30 am - Westside Community Center Six Week Series
Chair Yoga / for those with limited mobility, suffering from an injury, or recovering from surgery OR come if you just need stress-relief and renewed energy.  
Mats provided / Senior Discount $4 per class
January 17, 24, 31
February 7, 14, 21


Wednesday 5:30 pm - Chapel Hills Church Six Week Series

Yoga for Healing - NEW!  Bring your mat!  $45 for series or $10 drop-in fee

January 18, 25
February 1, 8, 15, 22

 

 

Thursday 5:45 pm - Reflections Studio Six Week Series

Yoga for Healing - NEW!  Bring your mat! $45 for series or $10 drop-in fee

January 19, 26
February 2, 9, 16, 23

 Friday 10:45 am - Reflections Studio Six Week Series

Yoga for Healing - NEW! Bring your mat! $45 for series or $10 drop-in fee

January 20, 27
February 3, 10, 17, 24

Classes are approximately 60-75 minutes long. However, chair yoga is only 50 minutes. Arriving at least 5 minutes prior to class will allow you time to sign in, set up your mat and prepare for class. If you are late, please come. Just enter very quietly so out of respect you do not disturb others. Be sure to visit any class near you for a reinvigorating or restful class. I would love to see you!

Lastly, although your mat is not sacred, it is your personal space to meet with God. Therefore out of respect for others, we do not walk on another's mat, nor do we loudly 'unfurl' our mats. Prepare your minds by entering into your practice quietly.

Thank you

Below click on the link, and you will be directed to websites that will provide directions and maps via mapquest.  I am available for private instruction, work-shops, and church group seminars or retreats.  Please contact me via email or phone to inquire about fees.

Chapel Hills Church  2025 Parliment Drive, CO Springs, 80920. 719.598.5086 Ask for Janis Chapman. ________________________________________
Reflections Yoga Studio  7630 Clovis Way, Black Forest, 80908. 719.352.9272 Ask for Pamela.
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Sunridge  5820 Flintridge Drive, CO Springs, 80918. 719.352.9272
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Westside Community Center  1628 West Bijou Street,
Old Colorado City, 80904. Contact Janice Rosebush at 719.385.7920, ext. 3 for more information; or go to Woodmen Valley Chapel's website.

Five Week Beginner Series

August 3 - 31, 2011
Wednesday Nights  6:30-7:45 pm
Chapel Hills Church, 2025 Parliament Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80920  719-598-5086

Cost: $40 for the series
Drop-in Fee: $10 per class

Wear comfortable clothes you can move in and bring a water bottle.  Bring your mat and receptive heart!!  Can't wait to see you soon.

Unwind this Summer - With Yoga

Summer is almost here! Or at least I think it is. Our spring time here in the Rockies has been cold and wet. We need the moisture, and after knowing the tragedies other staes are experiencing through natural disasters, I am not going to complain at all about our minor weather inconveniences. 

Please remember in your prayers, all of those who have suffered great loss.

I want to invite you to take advantage of yoga opportunites this summer; join us for a wonderful series - Experiencing Your Gifts, taught by my dear friend (and experienced teacher), Sarah Hogan and myself.  Call 719.385.7920 to register by June 13.

Or share a Saturday morning rise and shine with me here at my home studio.

There will also be yoga hikes - opportunities to celebrate life in God's creation, while breathing in the surrounding beauty. All the details are below.


Questions? Please call me. 719.352.9272.

Take the time this summer to really unwind. Connect with God, with friends and family, with self. Seek gratitude and enjoy the gifts and blessings God has given. And be sure to share your joy with others.

Shalom,

Pamela

"At times, each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us." ~ Maya Angelou


    
Summer Yoga - June 14 thru July 21

      Six Week Series: $40 - or $10 for drop-n per class

**Tuesdays - June 14, 21, 28 and July 5, 12, 19

4:45 PM, Chapel Hills Church
2023 Parliament Dr., Co Springs

**Thursdays - June 16, 23, 30 and July 7, 14, 21

8:30 AM, Westside Community Center
Old CO City, 1628 W. Bijou Street

10:30 AM, Westside Community Center
Old CO City / Senior Chair Class

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**Saturdays - June 11, 25 and July 9 and 23

9 AM, Reflections Yoga Studio
7630 Clovis Way, Blk Forest
Four week series: $30 - or $10 for drop-n per class

**Summer Yoga Hikes - Stay Tuned for Dates

The Beginning

Everyone has a story. A personal and intimate story. A beginning where for some there is a conscience acknowledgment of a Supreme Being. Acknowledging a touch so tender, that there is no question of its source. The touch from the God of the universe.

If anyone knows me well, they know I am hopelessly sentimental. I love remembering the past - mostly good. But I don't mind reminiscing about the bad as well. You see, both are part of my travels and both have shaped me into the person I am.

It is only February, and there is still the entire year before us to seek God's purpose in each of our lives, and to then submit to the refining process of becoming more and more like our sweet Jesus. Newness and fresh starts are abundate for each of us. There is hope!

My prayer is that we are all wise enough to take the first step and trust God. It is never too late.

Helpful Hints for Your Holidays

I believe that with the busy seasons right at our door step, we are all guilty of rushing in without much thought to self-care and wellness. We have a pumpkin to carve; a turkey to bake; a tree to decorate and gifts to buy. Who has time to take care of themselves?

I am afraid that if we don't heed some of the helpful hints listed below, we will all struggle with sleepless nights, irritable days, and lack the patience to get through the holidays. Stress not only robs us of our health, but also robs us the joy we can experience as we share these meaningful holidays with our friends and loved ones.

So, please, slow down. Be good to yourself so that in turn you can be good to others. Enjoy the blessings that God is showering down on you...and smile.

To Lessen (A)Effects of Stress in Your Life:

1. Start your day with breakfast
2. Eat smaller meals every 3-4 hours
3. Eat more fiber, fresh fruits, and vegetables
4. Drink water
5. Watch caffeine intake (especially in the afternoon)
6. Splash water on your face when feeling fatigued
7. Vent feelings in a journal or with a friend
8. Turn on some of your favorite tunes
9. Let go of grudges
10. Dress for success
11. Energize your spirit
12. Take belly breaths
13. De-clutter your home (or at least a corner)
14. Do something good for another person
15. Cut back on TV and computer time (especially after 8 pm)
16. Skip alcohol; or avoid 2-3 hours prior to bed time
17. Exercise
18. Get a restorative rest
19. Read inspirational books, quotes, passages, scripture
20. PRACTICE YOGA