Thus far in examining the Yamas (ethical principles for living from the yoga sutras), we’ve discussed non-violence, truthfulness, and non-stealing. Brahmacharya, the fourth of the five yamas, is often translated from the Sanskrit as conservation or celibacy. It is also understood as moderation. For the purpose of this blog, we’ll focus on moderation. Before we dive […]
mindfulness
How to Manage Stress During Turbulent Times
“After every stressful situation, we become a little older,” said Hans Selye, the father of modern stress theory. “Stressing out” is what happens when we don’t handle stress in a healthy way. Stress and aging are closely related and the more stress you have, the faster your body will age. So, how do we handle […]
The Space Between Reaction and Response
With so much unrest in our world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and lose touch with our sense of harmony. World peace, the health of our planet, the legacy we will leave our children – these are just a few of the imperatives of the times in which we live. How can we keep our […]
Start a Chain of Gratitude this Thanksgiving
When the person in front of you on a plane reclines their seat to the max, there are a few ways you can respond. You can accept it. You can get angry about it. You can politely ask the person to move their seat forward a bit. I think a lot of us are a […]
Finding Sanctuary in Unexpected Places
Of all the places to experience the power of meditation, the Exhibit Hall at the annual meeting of America’s Health Insurance Plans (an industry trade group) would probably not be near the top of the list. Yet there I was in Nashville this past June as a Stress Management Specialist for the Ornish Healthways Program […]
Crossroads, Transitions, Limbo: Successfully Navigating In-Between Times
Recently, I saw the movie Inside Out – the latest and, in my opinion, the greatest Pixar film yet. I’ve not been able to stop thinking about it; especially the main character’s journey through turmoil after her family relocates to San Francisco. Back in Minnesota, Riley was a happy, popular preteen, excelling in hockey and […]