Newsletter article March 17, 2022: Delusion

In the Yoga Sutras it mentions that there are things

that will hold us back from experiencing stillness;

delusion is the first listed.

Delusion: thinking something is when it isn't

or when it isn't but it really is.

I think delusion is tough to identify alone and that is when I am in need of a teacher or someone who can guide me with care and wisdom. For example we may be under the assumption that we aren't tired but then as we allow a teacher to guide us we may start to see what is really there. Yawn and notice that "Yeah I'm exhausted".

*******************************

Sunday March 27th I am leading online at 7pm EST a guided rest meditation. You may want to check on yourself or maybe you already know you are depleted but lets check it out together. Maybe you will be surprised by what you learn about yourself. Often those I work with are surprised to see that they can rest when they thought they couldn't be still. Others observe that they aren't as tired as they thought and instead they just lay and rest. Either way the lead experience provides you more information and clears up the delusion about ourselves.

Hope to see you soon and have a great day and weekend for no reason!

Jai!

---Paige

Newsletter article March 11, 2022: First experiences

There are many first experiences in our life but the one thing about them is that often we start out scared and then that changes.

The one that I often remember is attending my first yoga class. I hated it! We stood in-front of mirror and I was 27 years old, working hard and also studying for the CPA exam. I didn't know what it was like to be still much less stand and pause. Sure I was used to seated meditation but that was often at the end of my day to settle and go to sleep. So once the class was done I didn't return to yoga till years later and this time I was ready to consider what was being taught.

Today I was teaching a group of young ladies and started with a seated practice of slow movement. Immediately one of them remarked "I can't meditate". Interesting because I never called it that but she reacted this way anyway. Later another person shared "I can't remain still". I helped them redirect and return to the slow movement and taught them a tool to help them concentrate. Being patient we simply started over and I observed that they were finding pauses and stillness even if they weren't aware of it. One of the ladies who made a comment talked to me after and shared that she found herself calming down and liked the technique I taught her; therefore she allowed her first experience to change her initial reaction. Sometimes as a teacher we can help at that time but other times it is when the student is ready; for now all I can do is plant a seed that may grow at some other time.

Personally I used meditation techniques to pass the CPA exam back in the 90's. The exam questions are designed to trip you up because they expect those to follow their first impulse and knew that many would not fully listen to the question, so they put the wrong answer as a choice. Therefore after lots of money in education and prep courses, the biggest tool was applying my yoga and meditation to slow down, pause and re-read it again; remove reaction and have a clear response.

I hope you will take time today and this weekend to pause and if that is challenging start off identifying your reaction out-loud to yourself. Identifying the feeling takes away some of its power and even if the response is still angry, sad, tired or upset, you have shifted some of the reaction in that moment.

March is rolling in some changes that we are all experiencing. Covid requirement shifts and I see many with new in person work schedules. Already in my area the traffic is heavy again and tensions are higher with it. Remember to be patient, kind and find times to pause. You will need it as you allow time to get used to this new way of living and working.

For some it is spring vacation in the next couple of weeks. I have some open time between new sessions at the school I teach at, so if you are interested next Weds (16th) or Thursday (17th) there is early afternoon times as well as the week after. My personal classes are still online but if you live in the Alexandria VA area you can book and pay additional rate for in person if you prefer. Also new weekend times have been added as well so be sure to check those out as they often do book up faster.

Stay safe and keep moving forward. Have a good day for no reason!

Jai!

---Paige

Newsletter article February 22, 2022 -Light at the end of the tunnel

I remember a long time ago seeing a poster that said "There is light at the end of the tunnel... but sometimes that light is an on-coming train".

This message is still a reminder for me not to get ahead of myself because just when you think something is about to work your way... well it may not. We can hope all we want but it is always important to focus on right now. Of course I make plans and have goals, but I often have to remind myself to be right here and focus. For me this includes when I am teaching.

When I completed my first yoga teacher training in 2009 I had hopes and plans to work with veterans and as much as I tried I never seemed to break into this area. I asked for mentors and recommendations but only hit walls. So I just kept teaching and seeing where I landed. It seemed like some didn't want to share or network but there were others who at least tried to pass on useful tips and even though they couldn't help me now we stayed in touch. I was introduced to a director in Washington, DC from a current yoga student and completed the long process of becoming an approved vendor to teach veterans at the VA Administration center in DC. But then the Covid Pandemic lockdown hit. The job didn't move forward and they cut the program.

The pandemic made many people change their jobs and lives and that is what happened to a manager I used to work with. Fortunately she kept my information and wrote me last December. Turns out she now leads Wounded Warrior Expo events in the DC/Baltimore region and remembered how much the government contractors talked about my yoga class. Therefore she hired me to lead yoga and sound bowl for the veterans at their expo event; 20+ warriors who come to discuss holistic practices to help mitigate their anxiety, depression and sleep insomnia. Feedback was great and now I am starting to work for them in different markets.

Being patient and consistent is a large part of what I have learned in business. It isn't easy but I mentor many yoga teachers and this is a large part of what I encourage them to remember and understand. You teach even when only one person shows up. You teach sometimes for little money. When you have a headache, you still show up to work. When a job is cut you keep moving forward. I am not afraid to share and help pass along suggestions as I believe there is plenty of work out there for all of us and that there are so many who need the teachings of yoga.

In the meantime no matter your goals or expectations please be patient and kind. There is light at the end of the tunnel!

Stay safe and keep moving forward!

Jai!

---Paige

Newsletter article February 10, 2022: Is this love that I'm feeling?

I was at the dentist a few months ago and because of Covid procedures the patients are only allowed to have an escort with them for certain reasons.

I was waiting in the dental chair in one room and saw another couple coming in and going to another room. They were senior citizens and the woman was accompanied by her partner to be wheeled in and seemed to have other mental issues as well. The man looked tired, angry and overwhelmed as I am sure just getting from the car to the office was challenging. She looked scared and afraid and suddenly I could hear her screaming "Your hurting me!" As she was being lifted into the dental chair. Her partner started shouting back "No we aren't!" This went on for a few minutes and the staff tried to help her calm down and the man stood nearby. He seemed almost relieved to have the help.

Just about then a staff person came into my room and apologized for the loud noises. I told them that there was no need for that though. I only hope someone has as much patience with me when I am old and yelling. Fact is I have sat in many a room listening to similar kinds of situations and like to use the time to think about the things I don't know about them. (ER rooms are amazing places to be in and listen to different experiences). I wonder about the back story; how did they meet? Do they still love each other? Do they still feel young? Do they have other family?

For me there is no better test of what love is than listening to this senior couple. I bet they are both tired and wish things were going to improve but the fact is... it isn't. They know this but each day they get up and keep moving on. I bet they felt that time moved fast and it was just yesterday when they first met.

Time has a funny way of doing that; It can move fast and slow at the same time. Moments like this though remind me to appreciate the little joys in my life.

Valentines day is coming up and for me it is more than a day of romance or the way the sales people want us to treat it. For me it is a day to be reminded that time does go by fast; so make sure you have shared and expressed your love for all those in your life. We suffer the most when we have regrets so make sure you cherish each day.

Let us be kind, stay safe and keep moving forward!

Jai!

---Paige

Newsletter Article January 18, 2022: Doing pretty darn good

"Why is this happening" is the most common question I receive all day. Why so tired, sore, tight or anxious? I often smile and say the better question would be "why the heck not?"

Fact is as unique you think your problems are, I am here to tell you that YOU ARE NORMAL. Every person has these problems and never have I worked with someone that was perfect; didn't have anxiety, pain or stress. I spend more time teaching awareness to learn to redirect that negative though and less about fixing an issue but allowing us to let it be.

So hey - give yourself a break and realize you are doing pretty darn good. I bet you worked hard today. I bet you provided for your family and solved some problems. So stop beating up on yourself. Yes we all live in a fantasy sometimes. Mine is with Jason Momoa and now that he is getting divorced doesn't mean I can live in a world thinking that he IS a possibility; that isn't real. LOL What is real is our day to day life. People full of imperfections and troubles. That pain in my body and stress in my mind. A day full of people who make me feel angry and sad. But it also has tiny little moments that are full of love and gratitude. It is a day full of worry; will I earn enough to pay the bills? Or doubt; will they find out that I don't know everything?

When we can stop fighting with the fantasy is the very moment we can finally take action to help ourselves. Yet sometimes we won't because we may think it is a sign of weakness, be afraid to admit it and override what we need. But we don't think that about all things. We take care of our car or at least I hope so. If not we certainly know what to expect if we don't service the car so why would we be any different?

This month so many are finding balance again but just remember that doesn't mean with deprivation or punishment. Remember you are doing great with what you have to deal with right now. You are living through a pandemic after all. Come on! That is amazing. Nothing you did up to this point could have prepared you for these Covid times much less any other issues you are handling.

So find time to chill out, do something you need to keep up your maintenance and get some rest. Give yourself a break...You are doing pretty darn good!

Jai!

---Paige

Remember this as well with your friends and family - they are doing the best they can too. Give them a break!

Reflection: Poitier and Tutu

Reflection: It's 1989 I am working at the Kennedy Center Honors and I get to sneak in to watch history in the making. I knew it then and after the show I get the honor to meet Sidney Poitier and Desmond Tutu; they were talking together and I approached them. Even then, at age of 19, I knew and respected the movement they inspired. What I remember about that moment was the way respected me in return. They treated me with such compassion and kindness; it only lasted a minute but we can all use a reminder that it only take a minute to impact someone's life.

Little did I know that they would both pass away within weeks of each other. Now their legacy must live on in others. How will you make a difference?

We didn't have cell phones for video or pictures back then so I share this recording from that night. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkFxRYSYJhU

Newsletter article January 7, 2022: Is it me?

I was working with an adolescent (student) the other day that was late to her online class with me and when she logged on she explained that she was out with her Mom grocery shopping. Although she emphasized to her Mom many times about her appointment, her Mom's response was 'you are so moody' and the student expressed that she has learned to just accept herself as the problem.
But hold on... I offered her space for her feelings. She had every right to feel worried and frustrated. I felt her sadness for not feeling heard or listened too, so I just let her talk for a bit. Then I had her shift focus on right now and that everything worked out; she had messaged me and handled it the best way she could. We also finished our talk on compassion in the moment; that there is food for later provided by her Mom. During her time sharing she expressed that her Mom is often late to appointments and this is a common issue for them. The student tries to set boundaries but this often doesn't work. For example like lying about the time to be back; setting the time even earlier knowing that she will run late. Unfortunately I know many like this though and I am sure you know someone as well. This is a habit and one that may be hurting others.

Fact is even if we are miserable in our habit we may make some short term changes but we resort back to what we crave. We resort to the old emotions as well. This is very hard to admit but if we can slow down and observe our response we have a greater chance for change; yes I am talking about awareness. We have years of conditioning to re-work. Worse is we add onto our experiences because we could deflate it and move on, but we cover it up for later.

Imagine holding a beach ball and the ball represents feelings we don't like; anger, rage, sadness, misery, worry and doubt. We will try to push the ball away but it comes back. Then we try to hold the ball under the water and pretend it isn't there. We may notice how much energy it is taking to hold the ball under water but we are used to this feeling and unaware of any other solution.

But what if... we just let the beach ball be there? What if we see the ball but then intensionally notice other things as well. Things we are choosing to focus on; the sky, ground, people, colors, breath, our body. The ball is there but so are so many other things. What if we started to be more self-aware of our reactions?

With this student we have only had a few lessons but I am happy to say that in a short time she is learning how to be with her 'beach ball'. She is also learning why moments of meditation, breath and yoga can help us choose to place our attention on other things. She is looking forward to class with me more and we are working on less self-blame and more about clear ways to communicate and be with right now.

We can't always change others but we can change how we deal with it. The common denominator, as I like to say, is you.

How will you apply this story into your daily life? Maybe find times when you are about to respond and don't block it but be with it; pause. What is the root of that feeling and how can you ask for help? Are there some toxic relationships that need re-evaluating?

I hope this helps you and remember if you need me you can book online appointments for yoga, meditation, Sound Bowl therapy, Yoga therapy and even business or yoga teacher tutoring.

Have a safe day, weekend and I hope to see you online or at the in-person yoga workshop this Sunday in Old Town (see below).

Jai!

---Paige

Newsletter article June 19, 2021 (Gaslighting)

I was working with an 18 year old adolescent for months of health and wellness studies with me. He is bright, smart, so funny and truthful. Wellness took on many kinds of lessons. In first meeting him he shared much about himself including the fact that back when he was 15 years old his parents sent him away to a kind of school that took difficult kids and taught them wilderness skills. He said there were parts he missed but much he didn't. That was all he shared about the past.

In final days working with him he had some extra sessions with me so he could graduate and this gave us more time to reflect and be mindful. However this started to bring up feelings he had stashed down and avoided. For months we worked on ADHD, anger issues, healthy eating and his inability to remain physically still. Sleep has been quite hard for years and his attention span short; therefore chronic condition. On this day though a memory surfaced from his time at the wilderness school of various abuse; some he witnessed and some experienced personally. Saying it though he started to feel uncomfortable so he started to rationalize it saying "maybe I deserved it". He already meets with a therapist but shared that she has a relationship with that school so he feared sharing what happened. I advised that he find a way to communicate this to his family safely. Not in a way that wanted pity or legal action but allowance. I didn't advise this to happen immediately but he did go home and approached the subject to them that night.

The next day he started out with "well that was a mistake". He seemed confused as ever about his feelings and experiences. His parents became quite upset at him and yelled. First with denial; "Oh it wasn't that bad". They started to move into blame and wanted to know what they could have done differently considering how he was then. As I listened to this 'gaslighting experience' I reminded myself of my intension as a yoga therapist and wanted to allow him space to have his own experience in his body; we didn't discuss this past event or his parents but instead did some yoga asana and breathwork. I had to be careful not to do yoga that remind him of this wildness school and or use "the hippie phrases" they used at this school. We then we sat in a meditation. This is where I offered him a mantra of "I am allowed my feelings" and when his thoughts or opinions surfaced he repeated these words.

We finished with a discussion of the feelings his parents must have hearing his story; maybe deep down feelings of blame or guilt. Admitting to their child's experience would mean that they have to let go of such certainty. Therefore we built in some compassion and empathy that allowed him to move forward. He went home that night and his parents brought it up again and continued to justify but then he responded with "I was 15...no I don't think I deserved that". He was stepping away from being told what to feel and allowing the forgiveness into his heart. He was also learning to have a conversation without being defensive.

The following week I had the last class with him and he shared that he was putting together the pieces of his trauma and that he was slowly accepting that he didn't deserve the abuse and didn't need anyone else's permission to call it that. Instead I asked him what he did deserve and he responded with "love and protection"; he deserved to feel safe. With this we stopped talking and he did a single restorative pose and went to sleep for the first time with me for over 45 minutes.

We all have stories and have the right to the experience. We can stop looking for those answers externally though. Moving forward is what YOU do with that story that matters. The story shows up in our body and often our thoughts try to push it away, stuff it down or rationalize it. Sometimes tools like yoga and breath can help us navigate into a safe place to release all that holding and with this we learn to let go, forgive ourselves and move forward.

I hope that you will move forward and enjoy the paths you have ahead. We don't have to do this alone. Be sure to reach out to community and trust yourself as well.

In the meantime be safe, enjoy being out with family and friends and "Have a good day for no reason."

---Paige

Newsletter article April 6, 2021

I hope you are well and I spent time last week on spring break which was quite nice. I went out to visit my sister and her family. We went on a walk for 1.5 hours and it was an amazing sunny day. The week was filled with time to rest and also get things done in my personal life. I finished my last school assignments for the trimester and have off till May which is also the final trimester of my masters program! I'm so excited.

When I started on the journey for my masters in yoga therapy I had no idea of what laid ahead but the pandemic came in and changed everyones life. I am grateful I was able to continue with my studies and also help so many with a different approach to yoga and its healing and therapeutic properties. Little did I know just how many people would need help dealing with chronic anxiety, stress and depression.

Needless to say I didn't get everything done on my to do list. I still have to finish my tax return. Ugh! Even though 1099's were supposed to be sent to contractors by the end of January, every year I'm still waiting for a few even into April. So it is mostly complete but still have a couple of 1099's to input for my business income. The calculation of revenue income for donations and services made directly on my webpage was so easy though and I got my 1099 back in January.

I am back now and feeling rested and ready to return to work. Group classes are back and my availability for private and corporate sessions are up to date on my appointment page on the webpage. Many have decided to go with more private and feel more comfortable with this option lately; I totally understand.

These days many are getting the vaccine and others waiting to be approved. Be patient and the better off you are physically before you receive the vaccine the less side effects there will be. The vaccine will go to work on areas your body needs to strengthen but again if you start now on having a healthy body the better. Many have effects of fatigue and others have inflammation and gut issues. All things that can be examined and if you need reach out to me we could do a short yoga therapy intake session for 45 minutes and review ways you could make changes to help your wellbeing.

Maybe you are adjusting to returning to work or experiencing seasonal changes but take time to eat healthy, rest and get to sleep earlier. Be patient and find time for yourself. I hope to see you for online private or group classes soon.

Have a good day for no reason!

---Paige

Newsletter article March 30, 2021

I wasn't planning on it but the school I teach at, Fusion Academy, has off this week and I also heard that many others are off this week for Spring break so then I thought... I could just take time off myself.

So I did... yep I had a meeting... with myself and sat with the idea and immediately my body knew it was needed. How often do we override what our body is saying? Quite. The body sends a message and the brain tries to makes sense of it and over processes it to twist it around. So I am taking my own advice. I will be around for the yoga therapy series that is starting this Saturday April 3rd. Otherwise I will see many of you the week of April 5th for group classes.

I want to say thank you to all who contribute, write me directly and are coming to classes. Some pay for workshops and pay above the suggested rate and that helps to cover the charges I pay to the processing companies. Some can't afford to pay but they do help by spreading the word around, passing along social media posts and even asking their workplace for a special workshop. I continue to thank you so much for your support.

These times are strange and for many they are dealing with many emotional concerns and coming to yoga is the furthest thing on their mind. Don't feel bad if you have been away and just know that in my heart I do think of you often and hope you are ok. I hope that you will listen to yourself and that our paths will cross again.

Be safe and remember that having the vaccine isn't a free pass. Please follow CDC guidelines and wear the mask. By doing so you are helping others. Even if your state says it isn't a requirement remember that there is much we do for others that isn't a law... we do it because it is the right thing to do.

Have a good holiday for no reason!

---Paige

Newsletter article March 23, 2021

I am back after a long extended weekend of school and completed the trimester so I won't be taking any time off for school until May. So thanks for your patience and I hope to see you online.

I am so excited to be coming into my final trimester of school. Over two years ago I found this program for yoga therapy certification and after years of thinking about programs I chose this one also because it was a degreed program. It is a full time program and a big commitment. I haven't been back to an educational center in a long time and there were so many steps to take including sending transcripts, learning how education use software for school, assignments and writing APA papers. Needless to say things have changed since the 1990's! Still though I focused on one step at a time and before I knew it I worked through each problem and took the next step. If you keep going forward you you find yourself completing steps and maybe meeting your goals.

Sounds easier than it really is. More importantly it helps to enjoy the steps or process because if all you want is the end goal you are going to miss the experience. For many having many steps keeps us from the goals we want; we freeze up from ever achieving it but also maybe having regret that we never tried it.

So what kinds of things are you scared of but know that in your heart it would be satisfying and filled with purpose or meaning? Maybe sharing the answer to this question with someone you trust would be helpful. Maybe your feelings shift just by sharing. Other things to consider would be doing some research, asking mentors information and gathering clues along the way so you can explore new approaches. For me yoga and mediation helps especially when I am stuck with my thoughts and unsure of an action to take in my life. I get mental clarity by taking time away from my worries and fears and in my subconscious mind reveals solutions.

Below you will see up-coming workshops and if you are afraid or uncertain start out by saying that. How can you make steps to help yourself find satisfaction and peace? Maybe coming for half of the class and staying off line so you can just listen. Maybe coming to a sound bath meditation would help you feel less focused on your physical body. Think about the approach and what may help you take the next step.

In the meantime I hope to see you and if you don't make this week maybe sometime soon. "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article March 16, 2021

I was reading a book about a therapist who meets regularly with another therapist. You would think that someone who is a therapist would know how to feel and communicate but that isn't the case. Which is why we all need our own support groups and therapy.

The therapist in the book was having her meeting with her therapist and was asked a question. Instead of feeling the answer she was searching for the right response. "You know your feelings don't have to mesh with the way you thought they should be". Yet we often do just what this therapist did; which is take a feeling and analyze it to fit what we wanted it to be.

The word yoga is often translated into union or connected. However this line from the book got me thinking and applying what I know from science evidence. Often times in healing practices, such as therapy, the treatment is applied from the brain to the body. What is called a top down approach. However the way we actually experience things is from the body to the brain; a bottom up approach. The body sends signals and the brain is trying to make sense of it. Yoga is one of the few practices that allows us to follow this approach to observe therapeutically. Right there is where I often apply awareness during practice so I can observe how the brain is creating a story or response to the body's signals or clues. If I can improve awareness of this more often I may stop over-riding the original message.

Ever play the game telephone? One person whispers a message to the person next to them and it goes around the circle. It never comes back with the same message. Because the brain mixes up the message. I used to think Union or Yoga meant to connect, as in agree or equal, but I actually think it means that we listen to the original message better. We stop blocking the original message and that brings about healing and well-being.

Of course not all yoga is taught this way but if applied with awareness you may find that it helps you observe what you are doing out of habit and if you changed that response, new signals from the brain will start to form. This will then transmit to the body; reducing things like anxiety, stress and depression. This approach has a longer lasting affect and may be something you consider. You don't have to be injured or dealing with a serious illness to receive therapy. Sometimes talk groups help and other times yoga therapy may help you as well. Some enjoy therapy from art and walking in nature. Sometimes you can't do it alone and you can ask for help.

If you are nervous about coming to yoga start there. Say that out-loud. Fear is one of the hardest responses to change. Take a breath and figure out an approach that would ease you into the change. Maybe come online with me to a group class. Stay off video and come for a few minutes. Ask a friend to join with you online. Or schedule a private yoga or yoga therapy.

This weekend I am away at school but this completes the trimester for me so I am not back to school until May. Ever wonder if there is or isn't a class then go to the webpage and scroll to the calendar. It is listed there. I've had some save past emails for zoom links but they didn't realize they were clicking on the wrong link. Ever have that happen then go to the calendar. Re-register you email to get the link for that class; only take a few seconds. Also I will be adding some pop up classes of yoga and meditation so speak up if you have a day and time request. Your voice matters.

In the meantime I hope to see you and if you don't make this week maybe sometime soon. "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article March 9, 2021

I have a scar on my leg and back when I was about 7 or 8 years old I got into trouble playing with a doll I wasn't allowed to use. My Mom was upset and immediately I was punished into doing chores. I went to throw the trash away into a big trash dumpster and I was trying to swing the bag high up but it came back at me and in the bag was the lid from a metal can that sliced into my leg.

My Mom's reaction was "stop crying" its just a cut. I kept bleeding and thank goodness a neighbor, who was also a nurse, took a look and said "she needs to go to the ER". My stay at home Mom had two kids to take care of so fortunately another neighbor was just getting ready to leave on a camping trip with their kids and said they would take my sister with them. So off to the ER we went and I was terrified. As I sat on the ER table there was a table of needles next to me. I was all by myself and not sure where my Mom was. A nurse came over though and rolled her eyes at the needles placed there by someone else and told me I didn't need that. Instead she did a butterfly treatment and wrapped it. I was so relieved and that evening without my sister there I got full attention of my parents. I even got to pick all the toppings on the pizza! Strange how you remember things like that.

Looking at my scar today I remember the story but what I hadn't thought about was how young and inexperienced my Mom was; she was around 27 and really didn't do a great job as a parent but also didn't experience love or compassion from her own childhood. Both my parents came from a time where kids were seen but not heard. You got spanked, punished and often they didn't want to hear excuses. But I also remember the amazing people who did help me during that experience and demonstrated compassion. I witnessed the difference and never forgot what that felt like.

Sometimes we encounter situations we can't change in life but don't dismiss your action. You may not even be aware of who you help. However what do have is the ability to show others what kindness each day. The fact is we all have scars, both inside and out, and we may not be able to prevent the injuries from happening but we certainly can help the recovery.

Pain and recovery is very much what I see from so many who show up for online yoga. Some scars are easily seen but others we hide and it takes so much courage to be open and vulnerable to them. "I see you" (Namaste) is such a powerful word because when we hurt we may look for help but sometimes don't want to be seen. We want hide and be fixed. Yet that approach blocks us from the healing that has to happen.

Right now the classes I offer are more focused on this because many can work-out on their own. Many may have done more flow or vinyasa yoga before the pandemic but now the yoga has to change to meet your wellbeing. "It is the relaxing that I struggle with" one student said to me. Which is why she comes to online release and restore. If you need to heal, rest or undo I hope to see you online with me. Of course times do change which is why Wednesday nights is now Yang/Yin to prepare for the fact that some are in need of more strength in the muscles and the joints.

We all have scars and they are proof we lived and survived but we have to be patient and understand healing will take time. Be kind and offer yourself compassion. I hope you will find this with a balance of joy in your day; self-care, walk in nature, fun activities, talks with friends, and of course yoga.

"Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article March 2, 2021

This was a very odd and strange day. So many unusual things popped up. Including my work laptop that decided to have problems and I spent hours fixing it. Took a lot of patience and breathing.

I also had a staff call about a student and trying to discuss best ways to help her. Teachers and therapists often spend a lot of unpaid time trying to help and this was one of those long afternoons for many of us. We do this because of the commitment you make as a teacher and sometimes tough choices are made.

However a day like today I am going to practice what I preach and do some restorative yoga, long bath and get myself quiet tonight. There is a balance to helping others and you can't do so much that you become depleted. I find it helpful to talk to other therapists, find times to walk in nature, and be with things that are beautiful.

This week I have been working with many in private yoga therapy sessions and the focus has been less on physical injuries and much more on emotional pain. There are quite a number of resources and tools I look forward to applying to these private sessions and helping them to remove obstacles that are often in the way to feeling better. If you know of someone who would benefit maybe you offer them a gift card and encourage them to do the 45 minute online Intake. In this I discuss what yoga therapy is, go over conditions and previous treatment and what a yoga therapy session could look like going forward.

In the meantime I hope to see you this week. Monday nights are now at 7pm and the link is the same one for Thursday nights; just to make it easier on everyone. If you ever find a link on zoom that doesn't work, please go to my webpage in the calendar. You can't rely solely on past emails.

"Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article February 23, 2021

You either love it, hate it or are indifferent. That are the basic choices in life. Yet as we process that thought there are also occasions to like something but also hate it. Areas where we admit our indifference was really our lack of paying attention or that we change our minds. Furthermore as we become wiser we find that the key our joy in life is really up to us and not what others think of us.

I just had a weekend at school where we talked about social media and of course you get those in favor and those opposed. Everyone has such strong feelings about it and even form attachment to the decision. If you are in favor of marketing you may find it to be the answer for everyone. That if someone isn't marketing their event well that is why it didn't sell well. Others feel that if you sell yoga that you are going against the entire message or mission of what yoga stands for.

I don't agree with either side but I am not indifferent. I think both sides are valid and we each need to find our own answers. I think that yoga shows us that there is time for earning and working. That we don't have to feel ashamed for charging or earning a living in yoga. At the same time we can't observe sales numbers and determine if someone is or isn't successful. You have to be able to look at your own definition of success and see if that brings you happiness.

How do you define success? Think about it. I think it is all too easy to get pulled into many directions and away from your goals. So I do suggest to set intensions each day that help you find joy in the process because it isn't the completion of a goal that leads us to happiness. Instead we want to stop and pause more; take the time to enjoy the journey. The fact is that if you are doing anything too much you will observe that joy isn't there and maybe you need to shift or change something.

There can be too much work, school or negative media so be sure to find your balance. You are what you take in, so on social media be sure to follow positive news and uplifting supporting community. Maybe attending a live yoga class will help you reconnect with others. Or taking a walk in nature or catching up with a good friend.

The last couple of newsletters some have responded back to me with such nice words and taking the time to reply back with love and compassion. I want to thank you for this as you never know who reads the newsletter and where the message lands. From my heart I write you and hope to pass on inspiration. Now how will you inspire others who need it?

Oh and .......be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article February 16, 2021

Behind the scenes as Kara plays the harp during the workshop we did together over the weekend. Thanks to all who attended and encouraged others to come.

Furthermore I had my second shot of the vaccine last week and had some symptoms but nothing that didn't go away in 24 hours. I am grateful to have it since I work in person with those who can't get the vaccine and I feel a bit more protected from the virus.

In January I started working with some teens who have chronic pain. Sometimes it takes a few weeks but finally I start to see change shift within them. Especially when they learn to accept where they are right now with their bodies and learn to use yoga as a tool to help them vs fight with their body.

Pain is physical but also emotional. I think we forget that there are different pains and ways to help it. Acute pain is usually tissue related and short term; you twist or break something. It will heal and you start to move on it too healing. But chronic pain is different and has more layers to the recovery. The good news is that it can heal but we have to start with understanding that the body is living in fear and protecting. It is hard to cause shift when your 'blanket of protection' takes over. So you have to be patient and often the reason I suggest restorative yoga, sound bath and breathing tools. Unfortunately though when some start to experience shifts they return to their protective blanket and relapse; back into habits. But just know you can start over many times. I suggest you find a supportive community that will help you be accountable, honest but loving and compassionate.

Also having a purpose or meaning during these strange and dark times will help us find some help as well. But be careful, too much serving and you will find yourself depleted. You can't help others if your cup is empty.

For me yoga, breathwork and meditation help me fill up. I sleep better and find hope within myself. I lovingly hope to see you log on to a class and if not.......be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article February 9, 2021

LOVE. So many kinds and love is kind and patient but also can be blind and painful. Did you know that you can love someone but not like them. Or even be around them?

We forget this sometimes and it is important to know that sometimes love is the act towards ourselves; to choose to step away from someones hurt and abuse. Maybe it is someone who always finds you at fault all the time. We can shift this and instead we can step away from it. In recovery we talk about this a lot as letting someone hit their bottom. It is hard because it can mean watching someone you love hurt themselves. The reason for the step back was that you needed to love and honor yourself, but also because if you aren't there to be their reason or excuse, they may have to face some hard truths about themselves. This doesn't happen fast especially if they find others to take your place. But trust - in the end it isn't what you can do for them that mattered. Instead you needed to see that your job in life wasn't to take care of them.

Think about that phrase "not my job". I use it a lot because I would loose hope and spin out of control. But that is not my job. It doesn't mean I can't help others or be a mentor, as there is much satisfaction and reward in doing so; just don't get lost in the act of giving. I have to allow myself time to enjoy life, experience love and kindness. Discover my reasons for living and helping everyone is not my sole purpose or responsibility.

Consider this the next time you are putting other things or people ahead of your wellbeing. Occasionally sure. But is it more regular than that? How many missed yoga classes have you had? Are you pulling another late night to get some work done? Did you skip eating to take care of someone else? Did your family watch another new movie without you there? Are you working more than enjoying your life? If yes to any of these it is time to find some balance and you have to be honest enough to admit this and take action. This is love.

I lovingly hope to see you log on to a class and if not....

...be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article February 2, 2021

Shame... such a notable experience. When you can confront the feeling and say "hi" to the experience, it is such a big step . It isn't easy to overcome. Furthermore letting yourself be exposed to ridicule or judgement is a big part of also observing that you may have been the bigger judge all along.

The feeling of shame shows up subconsciously in our daily life and is conditioned down to us; learned behavior. Good news then! Means it can be unlearned. It will take work though. I know it all too well as I certainly had the shame of admitting much about myself till I received help.

I was raised with an abusive alcoholic Mom and a chronically depressed Father. The feeling of safety in my home was never there. My Mom especially conditioned me into feeling shame for my body, shape and feelings. It has taken me a long time to allow myself to feel it is ok to express my anger. Instead I was taught to hold the veil behind my home-life and act as if all was ok. I also wanted to escape from that world, so going to school I didn't want to talk about it more. It didn't end with that relationship though and I found myself used to addicted people and it took me till I was about 30 years old to see the habit I had. I took care of people and didn't like to say "no". I was dependable and loyal; I was a good girl. Trained to be this way even if I wasn't being treated this way in return. It took a long time to do more than simply see my actions but take action.

It felt selfish at first, I will be honest, sometimes still feel this way. But I did discover it was my thoughts of shame. Walking away from abusers for fear they wouldn't have anyplace to go simply wasn't true. Instead I found myself... my true self and found relationships that were healthier and there for me. Yoga came into my life and I found myself learning about words like 'true self' and following my natural path in life (Dharma). It came from the yoga practice that allowed me to examine my habits and acknowledge my initial reaction. Over time able to shift thoughts into compassion and love I was able to let go of the shame; to see clearly that I am good enough just as I am.

Seem like a stretch for you? Because you thought yoga was about placing your body into impossible poses? It wasn't about that. Sure some do achieve this but some don't. The point is that we often hold ourselves back from what we can do and do the same when we can't; shame shows up in both forms. Yoga, even those crazy positions, shows us our reaction and allows us to make a mental connection to our body. Being able to say "hi" to the experience is a big step to take and during it you may find yourself seeing that you were being the judge the entire time. Nobody else really cared as much as you did. There is freedom in this kind of yoga practice.

I hope to see you online where you can find your own personal freedom. See why it is important to leave your bubble and be with other healthy like minded people.

I honestly hope to see you log on to a class and if not....

...be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article January 26, 2021

Some of you may know I was a CPA and tax accountant for about 15 years. I still hate doing my own taxes but I have to say my background came in quite handy last year. I am sorting through lots of information and was able to use my webpage to download every donation made and fees paid to report my earnings. Looking over the list I appreciate every person who contributed and it helped me then and continues to help me today. So thank you!

I still continue to teach donation based classes but the new job I took at Fusion Academy (in person and online school for grades 6 to 12) came in handy as I not only qualified to get the Covid vaccine as a school teacher but also for teaching yoga to a cancer group at Inova hospital. Both are not very large paying jobs but I feel the work is rewarding and I just love those I teach.

So I went for the first vaccine and had very little problems. I have my next one scheduled in February and I do feel grateful but at the same time I want to step up and be an example, as well as take the risk to see what happens. I have to say Inova Hospital did an amazing job of being organized and had a large room to take in so many appointments at once. I didn't even feel it when they injected me.

Last week was also an emotional day with the change in the White House and for me I went to bed that night and slept better than I had in years. I wasn't even as aware of the amount of stress and anxiety I had been absorbing but watching our government put actions into place in public places, that make wearing a mask a standard, was just the beginning. There is still much for all of us to do and we can each help by being an example of kindness and compassion.

This past week in yoga I have been focused on the lifting of our energy, body and spirit. This is known as the Kapha Dosha season (Ayurvedia Science) and time to rise up off the couch and get moving. If you want to know more about this ancient science be sure to go to my webpage which has more information.

Lately I log on to classes and see faces and names of those I knew from a while ago and so wonderful to see them again. I received emails from a few last week to say you are reading my newsletter and how much 'my story' touches you each week. I am so glad you shared that with me and your words touched my heart.

I honestly hope to see you log on to a class and if not....

...be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige

Newsletter article January 19, 2021

Maybe this is an extra time off for those with MLK day off. If so I hope you do something to nurture and enjoy. Don't just use this extra time to do chores or more work.

I just completed a long 4 days with school and clinic. I will be honest that I went into it without much self-care and I felt. I know the feeling when I finally have to surrender; often it is just like a cat that swaps another cat on the nose - it stings a bit and you are being told to just stop it! But it requires you to be humble and honest when receiving this message. Resist striking back.

I noticed it and took my own advice. It isn't easy for me to ask for help but I did. One of my professors was kind enough to hold space for me and just let me talk about my anxiety that was showing up in my body. After that my night was full of care and not trying to solve anything. I got a good nights sleep and the next day did my online school from a different room and barely talked. I needed silence for the day where I could find it even if I had to listen to the class lecture. I made my food really simple and watched anything with acid and spice. Drank a lot of tea and water. It has taken days but I am on the mend and feeling grounded and ready to offer to others again.

We all need reminders of when we are in such a windy tunnel in our mind we become sharp and irritated; to ourselves and others. We can't be patient when we haven't become aware first. I will notice it rising and that I'm upset, tired and angry. I may say things to myself that are full of blame or worry. "I don't know why this is happening to me?" Right there is where I get the chance to shift gears. I will get grounded... which may be stopping right where I am at. If seated I will feel my seat, feel the ground. Look at the ground with my eyes. Then take some deeper breaths in and out. If I am standing I just focus on feeling my feet on the ground. If I am doing something that requires my attention with my eyes then maybe I can simply look ahead instead. This helps us leave the busy reactions for just a few moments and then I can think clearly and often times...better.

It is my way of filling up my cup. Maybe you hear yourself in my story and need to find ways to be humble about it and honest that you did have choices in your action and you can shift it again.

In other news The Yoga Therapy Series starts tonight and you may not be familiar with this and how it is different from a Yoga class. Be sure to look at my webpage for more information or email me paigesyoga@me.com and I am happy to define it and see if it right for you. If you want to join us there is still time so email or register (more info below).

In the meantime I hope to see you online for classes and help you find a place of peace and harmony from within.

We all have a big changing event in politics this week and no matter your views, it is change. Be with the feeling and remember to be kind to yourself and others. We are all hurting.

I honestly hope to see you and if not....

...be sure to "Have a good day for no reason!"

---Paige