As I gently step on my OM rug I pause, take a deep breath and gently
feel...really feel the sound resonating from my toes to the base of my
throat area. 
   I am gently reminded of how many "symbols" of yoga I have in and around my home that so often I so busily forget to stop and enjoy their intent and purpose. 
   Do you, teachers and students have some of the same symbols? If so, be mindful of their intent/purpose and enjoy their awesome benefits.

by Vicky Smith ~ yogini * Yoga Instructor

Affirming an Abundant Future
(wisdom from DailyOm & Scott Blum)

Squirrel Medicine

Native Americans considered all living beings as brothers and sisters that had much to teach including squirrels. These small creatures taught them to work in harmony with the cycles of nature by conserving for the winter months during times when food was plentiful. In our modern world, squirrels remind us to set aside a portion of our most precious resources as an investment in the future. Though food and money certainly fall into this category, they are only some of the ways our energy is manifested. We can conserve this most valuable asset by being aware of the choices we make and choosing only those that nurture and sustain us. This extends to the natural resources of our planet as well, using what we need wisely with the future in mind.

Saving and conservation are not acts of fear but rather affirmations of abundance yet to come. Squirrels accept life’s cycles, allowing them to face winters with the faith that spring will come again. Knowing that change is part of life, we can create a safe space, both spiritually and physically, that will support us in the present and sustain us in the future. This means not filling our space with things, or thoughts, that don’t serve us. Without hoarding more than we need, we keep ourselves in the cyclical flow of life when we donate our unwanted items to someone who can use them best. This allows for more abundance to enter our lives, because even squirrels know a life of abundance involves more than just survival.

Squirrels use their quick, nervous energy to enjoy life’s adventure. They are great communicators, and by helping each other watch for danger, they do not allow worry to drain them. Instead, they allow their curious nature to lead the way, staying alert to opportunities and learning as they play. Following the example set by our squirrel friends, we are reminded to enjoy the journey of life’s cycles as we plan and prepare for a wonderful future, taking time to learn and play along the way. (dailyom)

So, take your time to find within that playful you, and as you express it through your own way in your own life, you are also 'affirming an abundant NOW for you and the ones all around you'

~Namaste
Lydie O.

January 11, 2011 ~ ASANA

"Utkatasana" ~ the chair pose
    
      To the external eye, it looks like a yogi sitting in an imaginary chair. When you do the pose, however, it is definitely not a passive ride,it is a beautiful deep squat. Utkatasana immediately engages the strength of your legs, back, and ankles.

The literal translation of the word “utkatasana” from Sanskrit is “powerful pose.” Here power is not about domination or control over someone else so much as it is about aligning with the life energy within and around you. At the core level, Utkatasana teaches you how to find your seat of power within your pelvis, at the center of your body.
Benefits

    * Works muscles of the legs arms
    * Stimulates the heart & diaphragm

Beginners: Work on bring the thighs closer and closer to parallel to the floor.

Advanced: Do this variation: bring the hands into a prayer position at the heart, twist to the right side, bringing the left elbow outside the right knee, stay low in the pose and keep the knees pressing together. Come back to center and then do the left side.

Enjoy the ride and the inner strength!...Feel the warmth from inside out :)
Namaste
Lydie Ometto ~ InnerseaYoga.com