Yoga for the Peaceful - Crested Butte

5/25/10

2010-05-26T12:30:00.000-07:00

I just got back from teaching my retreat on the coast of Colombia (Tayrona National Park), and teaching workshops in Bogota. This is my third annual trip, and each time I go, it's even better. There are really no words to explain how magical it is to be amongst my family, the beauty of Colombia, and to teach to people who are so thirsty and appreciative for the Shiva Rea style that I teach. Tayrona is a magical place...if you have never been there I highly recommend it! I felt like I was in “Avatar Land”. Mountains, rocks, crystal blue ocean, rainforest, exotic food, flowers, plant life, indigenous people, and I even found a surfing beach, complete with hammocks to sleep in and attendants to bring you coconuts, fresh fish, and plantains. The surf spot will remain a secret…surfers will understand this, but if you come with me next time, I will take you! This year, a free diving champ from Colombia came to the retreat and taught me how to free dive. I have always loved doing this on my own, but learning the skills was awesome, and now I am hooked on this magical and meditative way to experience the underwater world. Us water freaks kind of get each other, so Carlos and I bonded instantly. Check out his blog at clubdelphinus.blogspot.com

Teaching in Bogota was also wonderful…especially the amazing people I met. I taught a live music class with some amazing musicians and precious new Kundalini teacher friend, Paola! We were totally in sync, and the whole class was a huge bhakti yoga celebration! Teaching at Yoga Studio Colombia was also wonderful, and I am excited to go back there to teach more workshops and teacher trainings…
Seeing my family was incredible, and just being in Colombia always has this way of grounding me, filling me up, and inspiring me…

On another note, about a month ago, wind swept through my life and my heart has opened to a love that I always knew was on the horizon...you can never be ready for that and the surprise of it all makes it all the more special. Oh, the magic of love! My heart is full, and I can see how this kind of love is so empowering. It has shined light on the beauty of my own spirit, life, and has given me even more energy and inspiration to extend back into my own life, children, studio, teaching, everything. This kind of love is a miracle, and I know that there are more miracles out there now in many different areas I don't even know about yet. A miracle for the oil that’s spilling, a miracle for the poverty of Colombia, a miracle for more couples to feel the power of divine union through tantric loving, a miracle for my children to have more peace in their lives, a miracle for my challenging relationships to have civility, resolution, healing, a miracle for our little studio to attract all the people into its doors that need what our special teachers and sacred space have to share, a miracle for Haiti, a miracle for all the prayers of the people, and a miracle for our planet...
Luckily, I believe that the power of prayer, intention and right action together create miracles!

I am happy to be home in my community, with my kids, Dave, and the excitement of the studio expanding to a new space.
120 Elk Ave!!! Look for our newsletter coming up with more details!

Love to all and look forward to hearing and seeing you…

Cleanse to Recharge, Renew, Rejuvinate! - 4/25/10

2010-04-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Spring is a time of rebirth, renewal, and metamorphosis. The changes happening outside are a mirror to what is, or can be happening in our own selves.
During these peak seasonal transitions, our bodies are primed to eliminate toxins, purify our system, and recharge ourselves on every level. During this season, the body moves into cycles of rebuilding and cleansing the organs and systems, so it’s the perfect time to cleanse past toxins from spirit, mind, and body. Luckily, we can utilize the tools available to change old lifestyle and eating habits to live a healthier and more empowered life.

Some signs that you are ripe for a cleanse include congestion, weight gain, allergies, headaches, depression, irritability, foggy thinking, muscle tension, skin eruptions, fatigue, and more. During the winter months we tend to eat foods that are more acidic and high in protein which cause the intestines to harbor harmful bacteria. This can cause intestines to re-absorb toxic materials back into the bloodstream causing a strain to the liver and symptoms to manifest.

This is where spring cleansing fits in. Dedicating a little time and energy to rejuvenating your spirit, mind, and body will add years to your life, as well as a depth and quality that can jumpstart your life.

The spirit is the most vital area to cleanse and renew. It’s a good time to wipe the slate clean and release old negative energies that may have been lingering. Beginning a yoga or meditation practice can bring you closer to your true self and help you find that inner peace and beauty that resides in each and every one of us. There are many ways we can get closer to and renew our spirit that are unique to each individual. The important this is that you find what works for you and apply a little “tapas”, (focus, discipline, energy) to integrating it into your life. The benefits are extraordinary and will be a pleasant surprise!

A clear and refreshed mind is the hallmark of a happy and successful person. Take a little time to de-clutter your personal to do list, re-evaluate your priorities, life goals, and dreams, and re-assess what you are working towards in your life. Are you living the life YOU want to live? Are you getting there in the most enjoyable way? Is your mind focused on what you want, or are complaints and worries taking up the majority of your thoughts? How often do you practice the art of gratitude? Now is a good time to spend a little time cleansing your mind. As we have a little down time before summer, you may want to ponder some of these ideas on how you can be your most authentic self and live the life of your dreams.

The body is what houses our spirit and mind, so it can be a powerful way to initiate change into all the areas of our life, including our physical health. There are many programs available for cleansing diets available. Pick the one that’s right for you and stick to it for at least 7-30 days. The local foods available through our extensive organic community can be a huge support, as well as supportive herbs and products. Fresh, organic, local food is packed with the earth’s powerful nutrients, and can help transition us into the new season. Food is literally energy, and if chosen wisely, can be the fuel that can instigate transformational changes into our spirits and minds as well. For those of you adventurers of life, try a different sort of challenge. Consider eating only local, organic, and whole foods for a week or a month and just see what happens in your life. Yoga, as well as other types of bodywork can also help the body heal, enliven, and ease into new healthy patterns. Try something new or go back to go back to something that may have slipped out of your schedule this winter. Take a little time for YOU this spring.
Now is the time of year to focus on your health and well-being!

Full Moon in Libra- Balancing Relationships 3/29/10

2010-03-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

This full moon is the second blue moon in 2010. A blue moon is when the full moon happens twice in the same month. Oddly enough we already had a blue moon month in January and this rare occurrence will not happen again until 2012. The first full moon after the vernal equinox is also called a pink moon, which got its name because of the many flowers that are now blooming. Pink moon is also known as the Pascal, or Easter moon.

That said, with the moon being in Libra, the main theme is BALANCE. Because of the other planetary influences, particular attention is on relationships. It is a good time to work on healing the problems in your relationship and opening to new forms of love. We may feel pulled in many directions as well, and it’s important not to dwell on making perfect decisions, but to make a choice and see where it takes you. Aries rearing its head at this time can cause heated debates and problems stemming from inability to quell the fiery emotions.

How to keep balanced? Which direction to go?
Find a way to create a balance in all areas of your life, share ideas, open to various forms of relationships without judgment, and channel earthy ambition into goals and dreams that are moving you forward.

The posture shown here with my Yoga Kids students is Vrksasana, also know as Tree Pose. This is a posture of balance, and in this particular photo, the girls are working together to hold each other up. There is a wide range of ages and sizes, but somehow, they are making it work, and enjoying it, no less. It’s always so good to learn from kids. Kids don’t give up so easy, and it’s amazing how they will innately find a way to make things work. My mom always told me, “Bloom where you are planted, Monica.” Cool the fire, get balanced, heal relationships, and bloom.

New Moon in Pisces- Go Deep 3/13/2010

2010-03-13T12:32:00.000-08:00

Each new moon gives us a chance to rethink, change direction, or re-affirm what we are focusing on. It’s a good time to set aside old ways of doing things and have a little courage to try new ways of thinking, doing, and relating.

With new moon in Pisces, we are encouraged to quiet the outer and even inner voices, and go deep into the intuitive voice that is sometimes hidden. With so much activity and beauty that surrounds us here in Crested Butte, it can be easy for that still, quiet voice to remain unheard. This is a good time to redirect our energy from earthly pursuits and turn our attention to our inner selves. Something is knocking on our psyche’s back door telling us to look for other ways to think, be and do. With mercury in retrograde until the 17th, it calls for us to be more introspective, slow down a little, and allow time for solitude. This is not a time to force things, get into heated discussions, or hucking the crazy terrain. Honoring these inward opportunities can bring clarity, focus, and creative ideas that can bring you closer to your dreams.

The asana Monica is shown doing is called eka pada raja kapotanasana. This is a deep hip opening posture that also requires an immense shoulder opening and backbend. Experienced yogis can have a blissful experience in this asana as the hips are grounded into the earth, the heart expands, and the hand reaches up towards the sky. The drishti (gaze) is towards the heavens, and you can’t help but whisper a prayer or request to your spiritual guide. Modifications are available for less experienced students and the full posture can be practiced over time with proper instruction and discipline. The way that the human body can bend, move, and open is extraordinary. For those of you willing to be spiritual adventurers now is the time to go deep! Expect the unexpected and peel away the layers to unveil the truth, clarity, and insight that are hidden inside you.

For those of you wishing to go deep, Monica Mesa is teaching a Master Yoga class on Friday from 5-7:30 at Yoga for the Peaceful. Please contact Yoga For the Peaceful at www.yogaforthepeaceful.org or 349.0302 for more information.

Full Moon Inspired Visions 2/22/2010

2010-03-09T13:48:00.000-08:00

The full and new moons gives us the chance to contemplate on where we have been and where we might go in the future. This full moon in Virgo inspires us to use our intuition to see what we need to address for our future happiness and success.
It might seem a little crazy, but the influence of the moon and the planets are there to assist us, so take advantage of these energies and let the light of the full moon illuminate your vision to see what is missing, or needs your attention.
You may need to take that first small step, or follow your gut that could lead you to some inspired revelations. Our intuition is one of the greatest gifts we have been given to guide us through complex times, obstacles, and situations. Listen, take note, and then take action. Unlimited resources may appear to help you make your inspired vision a reality!

Sarah Darval is pictured in a simple seated position used for meditation. Meditation is a practice that crosses all religions, cultures, and boundaries. It can include a prayer practice or a myriad of meditation techniques that vary depending on your own individuality. For some, this seated position might require a bolster, sitting against a wall to keep the spine straight, or slight shifting or movement to be able to endure it for more that a few minutes. If you cannot SIT without discomfort, it’s a good indicator that you could spend some time focusing on how you can develop the strength, flexibility, and openness to be able to do so. Yoga, meditation, dance, or many other movement possibilities exist that can help address these issues. The important thing to do is to take the time to quiet thinking mind and LISTEN. Trust the voice from within and know that this inner voice is always there to guide you to reaching your highest good.

Meditation is offered on a donation basis at YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL with Sarah on Thursdays at 7 pm.

New Moon in Aquarius- Get Creative! 2/13/2010

2010-02-22T10:18:00.000-08:00

The new moon on February 13th is a wonderful time to start fresh and think about ways you can be more creative in your life. The way the planets are aligned right now may bring about a desire for change or the momentum to make strides to go in another direction.
There is a feeling of tentativeness that is looming and instead of forging boldly ahead; it is in our favor to find a comfortable rhythm that is grounding and stabilizing. Let go of big plans, agendas, and frustrations and use the creative, positive visioning process to find ways to reach your goals. Saturn being in Virgo also inspires us to exercise a bit of discipline in finding balance at this time. Make better use of your creativity, artistic skills, and even apply all of these aspects to improve your relationships.
The asana I have chosen for this time is a creative variation of Virabhadrasana II, the warrior. The wide, open stance is very grounding and stabilizing. The arms are moving in a rhythmic, flowing way through the centerline and out towards space. There is a feeling of freedom, of opening up to change, and a creative urge that rises up from the earth, through your whole body, and out through your hands. As you move your hands from one side to the other there is a rhythm where you begin to lose your head and open to change that takes you where you are meant to be going. Here in Crested Butte strong arms and hips are vital, and the length and opening of the side body enables us to get more prana (life force), to be, do, and create our magnificent reality.

Full Moon in Leo- A Time to Dance!

2010-01-23T09:44:00.000-08:00

Full moons signify a time of completion and fulfillment of that which was started at the new moon. The last new moon urged us to examine where our life path was taking us and if we are still on course. This full moon questions if we are brave enough to make our intentions manifest in our lives.
Leo is the sign that passionately “loves what it loves!” It is a fun, lively moon that encourages creating support networks, socializing, and striking a balance between romance and friendships. It’s a time for planning something just for fun, bringing out our creative and artistic side, as well as acknowledging your own unique individuality. With the full moon bright in the sky, illuminations may occur in our own lives, so it’s a good time to explore new feelings, and express them authentically (without overdoing it!). This is not a time to sit on your feelings, but wise to take care in how you do let them out.
With the moon in this determined yet playful sign, I have chosen the most ancient of all asanas, DANCE! You can see Lindsay Fullers look of ecstasy as she dances with no inhibitions. Joyful self-expression is the perfect “posture” for this moon. Our culture does not always indulge in dance enough (especially without mood enhancing substances), and if you allow yourself a little space to just move in your own particular way, it’s amazing how much stress is relieved. As the pressures fall away and joy trickles in, the inherent creative spirit that we all have begins to bubble up and can surprisingly unleash your power to create, manifest, have fun, and appreciate your own extraordinary self. Dance with your kids, your beloved, on your full moon ski, with yourself, with your dog. Dance in celebration, in tears, in gratitude, in love. Dance for Haiti, for our friends and family who have passed on, for peace, for our community, for the water and the trees, for the kids, for justice, for your dreams, or for the hell of it. Just Dance!

Eclipsed New Moon in Capricorn 1/15/2010

2010-01-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

New moons are auspicious monthly celestial events that can be utilized to start fresh. When they are combined with a solar eclipse, they hold even more power for manifestation. This day also ends the cycle of mercury being in retrograde, so we can all take a deep breath and step up our activities and efforts without worry. Things are definitely going to flow better!

This Capricorn new moon is a great opportunity to take a look at how we spend our recourses, including finances, time, energy, skills and talents. It’s a good time to be sure we channel our energies so that we are generating more assets instead of liabilities in our life. Loyalty and commitment are also themes during this time so take note if you are devoting yourself to the people and institutions that are worthy of your attention. It’s a good time to make readjustments in relationships and notice what you give and receive.

Capricorn energy is also associated with rigid thinking and expectations, as well as paying particular attention to the skeletal system, joints, and skin. Focus on maintaining a sense of flexibility in daily situations, as well as developing healthy ways to take care of your body.

KT Joy is shown doing the Tree Pose. This is a posture that develops focus, as well as strength and flexibility. Standing firm on one leg, place your attention on your breath, and let yourself feel the sense of clarity and courage to look at the issues in your life that need attention. Keep your gaze fixed upon something non-moving, smile, and receive the earth energy up through your foot, and throughout the whole body. Extend the arms joyfully up towards the sky and give your energy out to where it is best served. If you sway or topple over, let it be a reminder to be flexible in body and mind. Let this momentum of the eclipsed new moon in Capricorn lure you be conscious and aware of your health, relationships, and to consider all the things you’d like to accomplish this year.
(KT teaches Poi Playshop on Fridays 6-7 pm, so if you dream of spinning fire or just want a fun workout, come to the pump room on Friday. For more info, contact Yoga For the Peaceful at www.yogaforthepeaceful.org 349.0302)

Full Moon Brings on the New Year

2010-01-01T13:07:00.000-08:00

The full moon falls on New Years Eve, and also happens to be a blue moon (second full moon in a month), as well as a lunar eclipse! If that’s not enough, mercury and mars are also in retrograde, so take a deep breath! This creates supercharged situation in the cosmos and a ripe time for inner exploration. As the shadow of the moon falls on the earth on the 31st, unexpected events or issues may come to light. This is a time to be patient, act and speak wisely, and heighten your awareness. A new path may be revealed to you, a solution, or ending to a long awaited situation are some of the possibilities that could occur during this time. All eclipses have to do with intense emotional reactions and are considered “course correctors” that bring on major changes that could affect the course of your life. We tend to be more emotionally expressive during this time because of the change in the electromagnetic energy that affects us mentally and neurologically. Creativity peaks during this time and qualities can be discovered as you let go of beliefs that don’t correspond with your current reality. With all this going on, it could be tempting to avoid change and confrontation, yet ignoring it can only reduce your power. Hard choices and insights lead to blessings of fulfillment, reshaped relationships, and new ways of creative expression.

The posture I have chosen for this time is Virabhadrasana I, or warrior pose. This is a common posture seen in yoga, which is great for feeling grounded during this intense time. A wide stance roots us into our present reality and gives us the strength to forge ahead even in the face of difficult times or decisions that need to be made. This deep lunge opens our hips, strengthens the lower back, and inspires you to go deep into your process. As we move out of the linear plane and dial our hips and heart forward, we see past out typical patterns and look into a new direction. The variation of the arms being intertwined releases strain in the shoulders and upper back and upward gaze inspires us to reach for new possibilities and heights previously unimaginable. Take a moment to try this out. Keep your attitude light and feel the excitement from the blessings, light, love and laughter that the New Year will bring. Take a deep breath, and KNOW, as many Crested Buttians often say no matter what is going on, “its all good.”

Yoga and the Winter Solstice

2009-12-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

For thousands of years, humans have been celebrating the return of the light at the winter solstice, when the days get longer and spring is on its way. This ancient ritual signifies rebirth, new beginnings, and invigorating our minds and bodies by feasting, dancing, singing, praising, and communion with loved ones.
The flip side of the winter solstice is that it is indeed the longest and darkest night of the entire year. This time of the year can literally shed LIGHT on the dark aspects of our lives, something that is not always looked upon with joy. But wait. This is a visionary time! Winter solstice represents not only this darker part of our life and psyche, but also the possibility of something growing, sprouting, and unfolding in the coming year. This is a time to celebrate that you can always count on the light to come back, even on the darkest night.

The posture I have chosen for this auspicious time is Trikonasana, or Triangle pose. This is a posture that extends our energy into mother earth and then sends it back up and out through our radiating heart, hands, legs, and into the world. Legs are wide open, powerful, and grounded. Breath and blood circulates through all the organs, tight spots, and spins the heart up towards the light. Arms expand out, fingers spread like rays of the sun, and the gaze is up towards the infinite possibilities that exist for us if we have faith and believe in the light that is in us, around us and through us. Try this posture up against a wall, on your sticky mat, or next time you are in class, and imagine yourself as a luminous expression of this pivotal time of year!

Happy Winter Solstice!

2009-12-21T12:50:00.000-08:00

This weekend we celebrated the solstice with a party on Friday night, Acro Yoga on Saturday, and a Yoga Mala (108 sun salutations) on Sunday. It was wonderful to get the teachers, local students, a few brand new people to the studio, and several part time residents come in for these events. The party Friday night was an intimate group, and began with the teachers gathering for a re-gifting exchange. It was wonderful to see the way they brought such wonderful gifts to share from their hearts, and to have our community of teachers gather to laugh, eat, and get to know each other. The Acro Yoga with Tess and Joan was so much fun! Learning partner postures and getting to “fly” was inspirational and we are hoping to do that workshop once a month because everyone loved it so much! The Yoga Mala was a beautiful ritual to invoke all the 9 directions to inspire and illuminate us on the official earths New Year on Monday. I felt cleansed and inspired for the year up ahead. What’s nice about celebrating the solstice is that it comes before Christmas and New Years, and during Hanukah, so it gives us the opportunity to get clear and present without becoming overwhelmed with the holiday flurry. It is easy to get caught up in it all, but I feel all of us that celebrated together will have a little more presence and peace of mind to offer all those we come in contact with.
I offer you all the magic and light of the solstice to fill you with all the divine illumination to know your path and stick to it, to clean out old habits, unnecessary worries, doubts, and fears, and to uncover and release dark areas and let the light transform and fill you with the radiance of all your wildest dreams for the new year. In these next weeks of holidays, may you step into the vibration of your answered prayers, and spread your gifts and love in selfless service to your loved ones, community, and global family!
Om Happy Holidays!

Buddhism and Meditation Workshop

2009-11-25T10:43:00.000-08:00

Please join Sarah for this transformational workshop on December 5th!

Learn multiple meditation techniques that you can do at home to help you de-stress and quiet the mind! Begin to understand the philosophy of Buddhism and how it compares to your personal spiritual philosophy. We will spend the day learning about the history and teachings of the Buddha and how we can apply them to our lives today. This workshop is for anyone who is interested in learning more about the philosophy of Buddhism and looking to begin or deepen their meditation practice. We will explore the worldview of Buddhism and how it may relate to our lives through learning the story of the Buddha and his teachings. We will explore the Theravada lineage found in Thailand today, the Mahayana lineage found in Japan, and the Vajrayana lineage found in the mountains of Tibet.

When: Saturday, December 5
Time: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Cost: $ 18 Where: Yoga for the Peaceful Studio

Please bring a vegetarian potluck item to share

Sarah was introduced to yoga by Mary Beth Nehl in 1999 and thus began her journey. She had a transformational experience in college that caused her to move to the desert of Arizona and begin her study of Religion and Philosophy at Prescott College. While there, she spent much of her time looking deeply at the philosophy and practice of Buddhism. Since graduating, she has spent three years teaching Buddhism courses to students at Western State College and leading meditation groups at Yoga for the Peaceful in Crested Butte, CO. She will always be grateful to Mary Beth for challenging her to look deeper.

Please join us for Yoga Bootcamp!

2009-11-13T09:11:00.000-08:00

Please join us from November 16-20 for Yoga Bootcamp at Yoga for the Peaceful!

For more information or to RSVP, please see us on Facebook!

Many, many thanks!

2009-11-09T13:42:00.000-08:00

Ginny is a dear student and friend of mine and Jay is her awesome husband who doesn’t do yoga (yet), but supports the studio any way he can.

Lauret is also a student, mentee, and a volunteer for the studio that does so many things it’s hard to list it all. One thing she does is all our graphic design, including the recent brochure for the Sustaining Membership Kula Program. Bobby is her race car driver husband who wants to run for president next time…

They live in Crested Butte part time and suck the marrow out of every moment they spend here. Before Lauret even finished the brochure, she sent me an email telling me to sign her up right away. Ginny walked into the studio last week with her Sustaining Kula membership form and check all filled out and handed it to me.

I wanted to thank Ginny and Jay, and Lauret and Bobby, for being the first Kula members!

If you don’t know what I am talking about, please see the info on the website. This is a plan I have been percolating for a long time now that I am hoping will enable the studio to cover its monthly recurring costs so we can continue to serve the community of locals and visitors. It’s a great deal for some who live here all year round, and for those that don’t, it’s a way to support our community and family business so the studio will be here when you come back. I hope you will all consider joining and supporting our studio so it’s here for years to come!

Twenty-Somethings

2009-11-09T13:40:00.000-08:00

Just recently about 10 new students have come into the studio in the twenty-something age bracket. Some of them came together, some of them just met, some of them just fell in love here in Crested Butte, and somehow, they all made their way to the studio.

They have made a huge impact on me. Their eyes shine, their hearts are full, they have big dreams, plans to change the world, guitars, mandolins, sprouts growing, and smiles that make my eyes tear.

They are hope for the world. They come to classes at the studio and fill up the space with the most incredible energy I have felt in a long time. Where did they come from? What will they do while they are here? Ski, work, love, play? Yup. Probably some will stay and some will go. I am their teacher, but they have taught me so much already. So, look out for them. You can’t miss them. And they just might bring you a loaf of home baked bread.

Ps-

If you aren’t sure who they are, treat everyone like they might be those amazing kids.

Hanuman

2009-10-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Sarah Darval and I headed to Telluride to take a workshop with Tim Miller at Telluride Yoga Center. One of the owners, Sharon Caplan had taught some classes for me last May while I was teaching my retreat in Colombia. I had not gotten to meet her before I left but she stayed here with my mom and just became part of our yoga family. So, this was a chance to study with a great Ashtanga master, meet Sharon, get to know the Telluride Yoga Center, and even see my cousins who live there. I had a lot going on in CB and considered cancelling the trip, but knew there was some reason, even beyond all that, that I was supposed to go.
Sarah and I pull into town and I call my cousin while we cross the street. He says, “Hey, are you wearing pink pants?” So he is the first person we see when we pull in and he walks us to the studio. We came just in time for the Kirtan (call and response chanting the names of God), which is my favorite thing ever (besides surfing and lovemaking, teaching, and being with my kids, not necessarily in that order). Now there are hundreds of chants out there, but Tim just happens to chant all my favorites. We talked about Hanuman and Neem Karoli Baba (my guru) the whole time, and even chanted the Hanuman Chaleesa. That might not make sense to all of you, but it was very auspicious for me. I knew it was my guru’s way of saying, “I got your back Monica, and you’re on the right track…”
Knowing that Tim is a bhakti (devotional yogi) like me really made his teaching special. My teacher Shiva Rea will always be my living guru and teaches what I am most connected with, so sometimes I don’t get that much from other teachers. This was very special though and his class was infused with more stories of Hanuman, (strength, courage, fighting for justice, accomplishing great feats and miracles due to his faith and devotion) and a soulful class that was inspiring in a way that only a bhakti and yoga master can convey.
I got to know Sharon in 2 days and know that she is a soul sister and friend for life. I got to see my cousin and his wife in a stage of their life requiring great courage, strength, faith, and devotion, (sound familiar?) and know that I am a part of this beautiful tapestry as well. I know YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL will begin a beautiful relationship with TYC and many good things will come of our studios collaborating.
Synchronicity at it’s best.
We left Sunday, feeling full and had great conversation on the way back home. Wise twenty something year old Sarah and me. Full of Hanuman strength, courage, devotion, and faith. Knowing I can accomplish feats and miracles for love, justice, and peace.
We all can.

With Love in my Heart

2009-10-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I got some bad news that really threw me for a loop. On top of that, I have some pretty big stuff going on in my personal life so it was a tough blow. I tried everything in my yoga toolbox to get back into alignment and I when I had to teach my 5:30 class that day I think I did ok, but definitely didn’t feel like I delivered my best. I stuffed my emotions and just pushed through it.
On Friday morning I woke up and again did the things I know to do to get my strength and courage back up. It was getting close to time to teach my 9am class and I was feeling pretty weak. All I could think of to do was either send people home, have someone else teach it, or show up with tears in my eyes and teach from my heart whatever I could. I thought shit; you own this place girl, be a role model and just do it. So, I lit some candles before anyone got there, sat at my alter and cried while I chanted the Hanuman Chaleesa with Krishna Das. I heard people starting to arrive and lay their mats down but knew all I could do was chant and let the tears flow. So I did. And they all just came in and started chanting with me. I knew I was baring my soul but also knew I was blessed to be receiving their love and strength by showing them my need for support. The tears eventually diminished and I slowly turned around to face them. Instantly I saw my family of students with so much love in their eyes. Some new, some old, some souls sisters, even a soul brother I just met who gave me his Shakti strength. More tears. So finally I stood up and taught a class mostly in silence specifically to raise not only my vibration, but also theirs. We raised the roof up, did kriyas and namaskars and asanas and mudras and handstands and backbends and partner work and massaged and ended with Sufi dancing and falling down for Savasana. Rolled over and sat in a circle with smiles on our faces and gratitude for the alchemy that had occurred during the class. Together, we are so powerful, and our love can heal and soothe and awaken and pacify and strengthen and move us out and into wonderlands despite the earthly conditions of our lives.
It took courage for me to teach that class, to be so ME, so raw, so vulnerable. But I could do it because I am so loved and because this studio is so special, people can come here (even me) and be REAL. We can laugh and cry and dream and BE. I learned it is good to be human when you have friends. It is good to show people life is not always easy. It is good to let yourself be loved and supported and held. It is good because now they all know they can come to class when the going is rough and let themselves be supported by me next time.
We all left there with a luminous heart and a radiant spirit, and I knew there’d be magic in store for us all that day.
Thank you to all those who were there with me on that day. And thanks to all who are always there for others in this kind of way. Its good to be human. Show all your colors, and let yourself be held.

Global Mala

2009-09-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

Last week was one of the best weeks I have had in a long time. On Friday, September 18th, I left for Tara Mandala for the retreat with Shiva Rea and Lama Tsultrim. Going to Tara Mandala is always a pleasure, but this time the convergence of events and auspiciousness was an alchemical mix that created one of the most memorable weeks of my life. We celebrated the new moon, my birthday, The Global Mala Event, Rosh Hashanah, Navaratri, the solstice, and being with Shiva and Lama Tsultrim all at the same time!
The Global Mala Event was concepted by Shiva Rea for Yogis all over the world to come together and practice to raise Global consciousness on the day United Nations has declared World Peace Day. Studios around the world practice a MALA, 108 sun salutations as a body prayer for peace and to raise funds for charities. This was on Saturday, September 19th, my birthday, and coincided with the first day of the retreat. We started the day with meditation, then a silent hike up to Prayer Flag Ridge, continued up to an astonishing lookout point, then an amazing lunch, a tour of the temple, then 108 sun salutations! (Surya Namaskars). A delicious dinner, cake, and then for me, a watsu & waterdance session at Pagosa Springs! Five of my students from Crested Butte came for the retreat, and about 13 more friends including my kids for the Global Mala! I fell into bed at midnight grateful for one the best birthdays I could remember!
The rest of the retreat just continued to be filled with surprising depth and gifts that can only be experienced. The way Lama Tsultrim and Shiva combined the teachings of the Yab Yum Mandala of the Male and Female Buddhas was extraordinary! The meditation practice and the embodiment through Yoga was a magical combination.
Although I was there to assist Shiva, it was a much more relaxed atmosphere that the teacher trainings I usually assist her for. For me, I was able to fully dive in and become immersed in retreat mode. My Zen-like accommodations, extraordinary organic meals, and soulful people allowed me to relax and open myself for new teachings that I am eager to share and integrate into my life.
Coming back to Crested Butte to the festivities of the studio’s 3rd Anniversary Party was a perfect way to keep the high going. It was a great party, and seeing all the different kinds of people always makes me smile. There were some new people who have never even been to the studio, as well as most of the teachers, volunteers, and even kids. The fire and poi spinning was a big hit and seeing some of my friends giggle and erupt with joy as they got the hang of it was wonderful!
Well, we are officially in Fall (“Off”) Season, and it is a time when all businesses in Crested Butte cross their fingers and brace themselves for things to slow down. Well, we’re in it for the long haul, so I am going to have faith that the season, although a little slow, will continue to bring infinite possibilities and blessings that enable us to continue to grow, thrive and serve our community.

Happy Solstice!

2009-09-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

It is a powerful time this week! Starting tomorrow, we celebrate the new moon, Rosh Hashanah, Navaratri, and the solstice! With all of that going on, we have the opportunity to jump on the energetic train and utilize the forces to propel ourselves to a higher ground. My birthday also happens to fall on Saturday, which is also the day of the worldwide Global Mala Event to unite for peace and activism. This event was begun by Shiva Rea (my beloved teacher), and this year we are lucky enough to be hosting her at the Tara Mandala Retreat Center in Pagosa Springs. It is in conjunction with her retreat for sacred union with the divine and we will be exploring Tantric Yoga as well as the Buddhist teachings that Lama Tsultrim will be presenting.
I leave for this tomorrow, and although I am assisting Shiva for this event, I am sure that I will be submerged in the retreat space of these teachings and enjoying the sacred beings that are all converging for it. Several of my students from Crested Butte are coming for the retreat and even more coming just for Global Mala! I know it is going to be amazing and full of surprises and I am so ready to dive in!
I also want to take the opportunity here to say that we have begun our fall schedule and “off season” is upon us. For most businesses in CB, it’s a kinda tenuous time. This is when we really count on the community support of our locals and extended yoga family to keep the abundance vibes flowing for us. We do not skimp the schedule at this time. It is so juicy, with classes that include dance, meditation, ski-conditioning, and many yoga offerings for all. Donation classes are offered every day, and we always work with what you got. So, come in and if you’re not “here”, know that we are working hard to thrive so that we’re here when you return. I adore the visitors that come here from Texas, Oklahoma, NYC, Cali, Louisiana, and so many other places…I am missing you all…
Thanks for a great summer, and I know we are all going to have a wonderful and transformative fall.
My prayers are with you all on this sacred retreat. Thanks for letting me be a part of your lives and do what I love!
Monica

The Goddess Retreat and Habitat for Humanity

2009-08-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

The Goddess Retreat was an intimate group of the most amazing southern women! They laughed, cried, prayed, shopped the racks of the studio, soul searched, and had a great hike up to the top of Mt. CB for the Living Journeys fundraiser for women living with cancer. We also had a YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL team for the summit hike and raised well over $1000! It was a wonderful weekend and I am very proud and honored to have gotten to know these women and the people on our summit team.

This weekend we took part in the “Women Build” fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity. This wonderful fundraiser was to encourage women to get involved in the building of Habitat homes. Chris Klein headed up the program and several other construction workers came out to lead and teach a large group of women many skills. The current house we were working on is being constructed for a single mom and a woman with MS. We got pink hard hats and tool belts, were treated to lunch from the Firebrand, and even got served wine and cheese afterwards. I was pretty excited to be wielding a hammer, staple gun, and get up on ladders and do such burly work. Much laughter, camaraderie, and teamwork made the time fly, but by 2:30 I was exhausted and fell asleep in the grass. I am not sure if most construction workers get to do that and I am duly impressed by the amount of work and physical labor that goes into this impressive profession. I think I am going to run a special from now on just for people in the construction industry!

It was very heartwarming to know that we were a part of something so special and I am looking forward to helping them out on other work days. Please consider lending a hand for this special project and come out with us next time. Especially needed are skilled workers. I know we are all busy these days, and working hard to meet our own needs, but there is something so special about lending a hand, and so much gratification that comes from it! For the yogi’s in the house, this is karma yoga, one of the most important aspects of being a yoga practitioner. This is what we call taking yoga “off the mat and into the world.”

That’s all for now! I am very busy working on the fall schedule which begins on September 7th, so look out for it!

If you did not receive our August newsletter, please sign up for it, or let us know, so you can get a peek at the upcoming specials and events.

It’s getting chilly, huh?

Stay warm with Yoga!

OmLove,
Monica

Venice has been an amazing trip!

2009-08-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

I have been in Venice for almost 2 weeks now, assisting Shiva Rea. Although I miss the studio (and my kids!), it has been a great trip for me. Being with Shiva is one of the greatest highlights of my adult life. She is a living Yogini, Shakta, and huge voice and force of change in the world. She inspires and mirrors to me the best that I have inside myself, and being with her is like being immersed in grace and joy, one of those unexplainable things in life that just ARE.
This time, I had the honor of being her lead assistant, and was able to step up in a way that catapulted me to a new expression of my skills as a teacher. It was very empowering! I also had the honor of working with Twee Merrigan, a world class yoga teacher who taught several parts of the training, and the other wonderful assistants that are devoted to serving Shiva, all the participants that come to the training, and working with Exhale Yoga studio, one of the best yoga studios on the planet. (That is not an exaggeration.)
I will be back teaching class on Wednesday full of Shakti and excited to see all the lovely faces of my yoga students. I have gotten lots of ocean time as well, and am coming back refueled and full of new energy, ideas, and inspiration to continue teaching the transformative practices of yoga at YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL!
Today the theme in our morning Fire class was igniting the flame inside of ourselves for that which we want/need to devote ourselves to. Each breath (a total of about 26,000 in one day) is a breath of God/Prana/Life-Force. Focusing on the amazing reality of that fact, we can direct our energy and propel ourselves to live a life of service, love, and joyful expression of our desires and dreams. Summer is not over until late September, so we can use the fire element of this season to ignite this flame that is inside us all. May you all strike that sacred flame inside of yourselves!
OmLove~
Monica

Headed to Santa Monica

2009-07-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

I am sitting in the airport on my way to my hometown shores of Santa Monica to assist Shiva Rea. As I was driving from Crested Butte to Denver to catch my flight I started feeling my vibration electrify. That always happens to me when I begin my journey towards being with Shiva. Being in her presence and the members of our “tribe” is like getting filled up at a gas station. This gas tank is filled with Shakti! When we are around each other, the love flows, laughter resounds, creativity flows, surf swells, and magic is everywhere. I am soooooooo lucky to be a part of this wonderful group of people and to have Shiva as my teacher.
Leaving my kids and the studio is not easy, especially in the summer, but I am doubly blessed to have a great assistant (Kelly:), fabulous teachers, and many volunteers who will run the show while I am gone. And my mom just flew in to help with the kids!
I am very excited about our Goddess Retreat & Summit Hike that is happening August 8, and am flying back just in time to lead all the participants in a yoga class before we start. The Goddess Retreat is the first of many CB Yoga vacations we will be hosting almost every month, so we are pretty excited to collaborate with many different businesses for this pampering and adventurous retreat that raises money for women living with cancer and their families. There is a hometown price as well as one for people who need accommodations, so check the website for more info.
YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL also has a team for the summit hike and anyone can be on it (men and kids too!). Personally, I’d like our team to raise lots of money and have a great time doing it! So, come join us!!!
Meanwhile, the studio is still rockin’, t-shirts are back in stock, and as summer slips by into August pretty soon, I want to thank all the amazing people who have come into the studio from all over the country. It fills me up to see all those smiling, peaceful faces after class and know that they are leaving our studio and town, with a little extra Shakti. And I think they know it. CB wouldn’t be the same without all of you, and you help our studio thrive, so thanks from the bottom of my heart!
OmLove!
Monica

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

The week of the 4th of July is when business owners and the locals who work in the service industry here must be in shape and ready to rock for the throng of visitors who descend upon our little town. And boy did YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL rock! We had packed classes all week and even had to turn a few people away. (Sorry!) I think with all the great exposure we have had with the article in the CB summer Magazine and the latest profile on me in the newspaper J, as well as all the great word of mouth spreading, our little studio has been officially “discovered”.
It was another fabulous weekend in the Butte and with all the activities we finished it off with a Candlelit Restorative Yoga class. A precious time to relax, renew, and let go. As busy as we are here with work, family, or outdoor activities, I think it’s vital to find a little time for R & R. It was much needed for me too. Raising three boys, running a blossoming yoga studio, teaching classes, workshops and retreats, as well as finding some time for my own outdoor activities and dawn patrol yoga practice, has me burning at both ends sometimes. As my teacher, Shiva often says, it’s a full life!
We have some fabulous events happening at the studio; Tantra, breath workshop, partner yoga, Goddess Retreat, adventure hikes, outreach with Habitat for Humanity Women Build Day and so much more. Stay tuned to our website, newsletter, Facebook, and come enjoy all you can.

It's almost July

2009-06-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

Well, summer is officially upon us! The rainy weather changed on the actual day of solstice, and now Crested Butte is in full swing into another summer in paradise.
We started off the summer by having a solstice party at the studio and had live music, lots of wonderful people, prizes, and some last minute spinning outside. (photos coming soon!)
YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL has made some schedule changes to help you integrate yoga into your summer schedule. Early morning classes, as well as later evening classes, more CorePower, and special events planned all summer.
A recent change in policy is to pre-register and pay for all special events due to our “intimate space” in order to guarantee your spot. This also helps us by bringing world class teachers and programs to Crested Butte.
Classes are still on first come, first serve basis, so coming a few minutes early will definitely help if you are really counting on it.
A little secret for all the people who read my blog is that we are hoping to get more stable this summer and our goal is to acquire a bigger space by fall. You can hold that in your prayers for us!
We have recently gotten some new retail items of the Be Present clothing line, new Y4P t-shirts coming any minute, the LifeForce line of energy drinks and Body Balance, and new eco-mats. Check out these, and all the other wonderful things I hand pick for you, that are either from local or socially responsible companies!
We are right in the middle of Fat Tire Bike Week and have had many special classes all week just for all those bikers out there. Truly though, ALL YOGA is good not only for bikers but for hikers, runners, kayakers, rafters, climbers, tennis players, even couch potatoes. (Are there any of those in CB?)
I know that may sound too broad but it really is true. The best athletes have the combination of strength, flexibility and balance equally distributed through all the muscles, and the goal of yoga is just that; to balance the body (not to mention the spirit and the mind).
Well, I am off to go ride the Bridges of the Butte (fundraiser for the Adaptive Sports Center) on team YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL, so stay tuned to our website and facebook page for a summer of YogaLove.
OmBlessings!
Monica

My fabulous trip to Colombia!

2009-06-01T07:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I just got back from teaching a retreat in Colombia (South America) and had an incredible time. If I can be a little bold, I’d like everyone to know that Colombia is spelled ColOmbia. I have found it fascinating over the years how many people spell it ColUmbia. (That’s in Ohio). Anyways, being proud of my Colombian heritage, I felt like I needed people to know this. The retreat was incredible, and I feel very lucky to be able to have my teachers and volunteers help run the studio while I am away teaching or assisting Shiva Rea. The studio is still in the growth stages as many of you know and does not provide me with a substantial salary, so for me it is vital that I continue to advance my yoga teaching career abroad when I can. I feel very lucky to have reached the stage where people are inviting me, so it is with much gratitude that I am able to travel, as well as run the studio here in Crested Butte. I will be posting photos of the retreat on the Y4P Facebook page, so check it out if you are interested in coming to this exotic eco retreat in the Caribbean with the Sierra Nevada Mountains surrounding. I will be going there next in November!

With lots of help from Andi Tippie, the summer schedule is now done! It is a great schedule, with most of the favorite classes/teachers offered at the same time, some new teachers and classes you will love, as well as some early a.m. classes and evening classes to accommodate your summer schedules. Enjoy! I take much care to create this schedule to suit you, so if you have any questions or comments please let me know!

With Andrew Bettinger’s help, you have hopefully all received the newsletter. If not, just send me an email and I will add you to the list. The newsletter is a special way to get you notified of special events and promotions, so I hope you will take the time to read it…

Although summer is not official for a few weeks, those of us with kids are now on summer vacation! It’s another beautiful season for us, so I hope you all enjoy it, find time for yoga, come to some of our special events, and keep spreading the YOGA FOR THE PEACEFUL message so we can continue offering our programs to the community.

THANKS and OmLove,

Monica