. May 2004 Yoga - Art - Expression
. Heart Practice Yoga Newsletter
In this issue
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The Power of Intention

During the centering part of yoga class, students are asked to create an intention for their practice. They think of qualities they would like to manifest on and off the mat, or something they would like to receive from yoga. This becomes the time to surrender the mind and listen to what the body and spirit are needing.

My good friend Rhonda and I have been enjoying Wayne W. Dyer's "The Power of Intention: Learning to Co-Create Your World Your Way." He describes intention as that Universal Energy Source. He calls people who are consciously connecting with this Source "connectors" and describes them as "individuals who have made themselves available for success."

What stood out for us is when he said: "When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change." Some contend that there is no such thing as reality, but only perception. In not needing to control others or situations, we can align our actions with that Source and live more harmonious and joyful lives.

In the next few days notice where you find yourself resisting life, feeling frustrated or shutting down. Then see if, with a shift in perception and attitude, the people and things you see begin to change in a more positive light.

 

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Greetings!

This monthly newsletter is created to provide you with resources to nourish your practice and inspire your spirit. Please send an e-mail if there is anything you would like to see featured for our yoga community. This month I encourage you to change your mind. - Namaste, Monica Paredes

Deepen Your Practice In Italy
There is still time left to experience yoga in one of the most beautiful settings in the world. Practice yoga with a new perspective. Airfare specials are popping up.

From June 12 - 19, 2004, I will be hosting a Yoga Retreat in Sabina, Italy, located about 45 minutes north of Rome. Experience 2-hours of yoga each morning and end each day with a relaxing sunset meditation. Included are 3 garden-fresh meals per day, one tour of your choice and mountain bikes to explore the countryside.

Sit among olive trees and finish that novel or take photos in the medieval village of Torri. Expand your mind, breathe in a new culture, experience a romantic language. Tell a friend. Join us in celebrating life!

See images of Sabina here... »

 

Say "Yes" to the Whole of Life
I was fortunate to practice with John Friend, founder of Anusara Yoga, this past week while he was back home in The Woodlands. In a room with four teachers- turned-students, he shared his wisdom and blessings, which I hope to share with my own students.

On the second day John asked if we knew of any "shouldn'ts" or "don'ts" of Anusara yoga. The correct answer is that instead of focusing on what we should avoid, we can focus on the bigger picture, a greater vision. Coming from a place of expansiveness allows us to take in all of life and then with discretion practice those behaviors that benefit our health, spirit and how we interact with others.

This philosophy reminds me of my favorite Stephen Covey quote, which hangs in my office: "You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage -- pleasantly, smilingly, nonapologetically -- to say "no" to other things. And the way to do that is by having a bigger "yes" burning inside. The enemy of the "best is often the "good." Having that sense of purpose and direction enables us to strengthen our core and shine our true essence.

When we're overwhelmed or afraid, we toughen up, figuratively and literally hardening our exterior. John ended the first practice saying that if our core being is solid and strong, our skin can become soft. If our skin is soft, we are more sensitive. If we are more sensitive, the more capable we are of compassion. That is to flow with grace.

Find out about Ann Friend's legacy... »

 

Mommy & Me
Our weekly prenatal classes have been a wonderful success with healthy births and happy moms. Our classes teach not only safe yoga stretching and strengthening exercises, but also various breathing methods, meditation and methods of connecting with baby.

On Wednesday, May 19, 2004 from 10 - 11 a.m. I will lead a Mommy and Me class at The Yoga Place. For moms and babies 6-weeks to pre-crawlers, this class is designed to help new moms stretch and strengthen their bodies while connecting with their babies and other moms. We will use movement and breath to open to the changes parenthood brings to bodies and minds. In addition, we will use breath, song, touch and facial expression to interact with the babies.

Cost is $12 by May 18, $15 at the door. For more information or to register, call 210-404-9600.

On Wednesday between 9 and 10 a.m., I am scheduled to talk about Mommy and Me classes on Lu Parker's Great Day SA!, which is KENS5, channel 5, CBS. Tune in!

More details here... »

 

The Art of the Yamas and Niyamas
They're here! The Yama and Niyama cards are finished and available for sale.

Nearly a year in the making, these 10 cards artistically depict the Yamas and Niyamas and include prose that teachers can read to set a theme for class, or practitioners can use as a daily practice. They were designed so that you will see something new each time in the art, in the text, and in yourself.

These cards were inspired by Robyn Nola's Flower Color Therapy cards. Special thank you to Angie Santucci for her beautiful poses.

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