September Samskaras
In Sanskrit, the oldest of languages, the word samskara means inner pattern or imprint, that creates our mental, emotional and physical default settings. Neurophysiologists mapping neural pathways in the brain report that each time we react in certain ways, whether it is getting angry, procrastinating or any repeated behavior, wanted or unwanted, we strengthen the power of that pathway. Samskaras are powerful, which is why knowing better doesn’t always change the behavior. There are ways of changing these grooves. The brain is so malleable, so able to take and hold impressions, that as long as we keep leading it toward new pathways, these practices and experiences will help us eliminate the ones which no longer serve us in life.
One of the best ways to create new samskaras is to continue to consciously shift negative thoughts and patterns into positive ones. This is not as easy as it sounds; it takes alot of practice and like anything, becomes easier in time.
Our yoga practice is integral to changing these samskaras, as we purify, reforge and replace them through intention and attention. Through the practice of asana (the poses), meditation, mantra repetition, visualization and Pranayama (breathwork) we not only create new, positive samskaras, but we wipe out the old ones which limit our lives. Meditation is especially effective as it works at the deepest level, literally cleansing your subconscious mind of the cluttered or stagnant thoughts. This creates space for a new flow in your life to emerge, ultimately leading you to a state of Joy and peace.
As we move into this season of transformation we realize that big changes rarely happen overnight (and in Florida the season change is not as noticeable as it is in other parts of the world). At the same time, every effort you make is moving you in the direction you desire. Try to appreciate the movement itself, enjoy the journey, know that you are on the road to where you want to go. Have compassion and appreciation for yourself. Realize how much power you have and how wonderful and joyful this journey can be. Use your imagination, dream of the life you wish to create and then stand back and watch as it unfolds according to your intention.
We are excited to kick off another Yoga season in October, stay tuned, new classes will be added soon!
We thank you all for spreading the Joy of Yoga and we look forward to continuing this journey together!
In Gratitude~
Namaste'Tess and Jackie
Teacher Training
The next teacher training will begin October 21st.
If you have an interest in becoming part of the Joyful Yoga team or would simply like to deepen your practice you may want to consider attending this fall’s session. We have designed this training to accommodate busy lives and schedules. This training offers an opportunity for a fulfilling career that combines the ancient yogic wisdom and contemporary body-mind psychology. Call the studio for more information. Scholarships are available. Space is limited, please register before 10/14/06.
Lifeforce Yoga to Live Your Bliss Workshop with Amy Weintraub. Author of Yoga for Depression.
This wonderful opportunity to practice and learn from one of the finest yoga instructors today will be held on February 11th, from 1pm until 5pm. We will be practicing asana, Pranayama, and other techniques to expand your practice and live your bliss. Amy’s workshops are nationally advertised and fill up fast so make your plans early and secure a spot.
Fashion
We have just received our latest shipment of Be Present Yoga wear and per your request, ordered lots of black pants in both styles. We also received the new fall line of tanks and tees in great colors. This line of clothing is not only comfortable but continues to look brand new after dozens of washings. If we don’t have your size just let us know and we will be happy to order them for you. Stay tuned for our new expanded website store. We will have many more styles of clothing and other products to support your yoga practice and promote optimum health.
The Secret
We are very excited about our new favorite movie entitled The Secret. It will be available for rent this month at the Ft Myers studio. We love this movie so much we encourage you to view it at your earliest convenience (even buy it so it can be viewed many times by you, your children, parents and friends. This movie is so exciting and uplifting it will change those samskaric patterns that are not serving you and thrill you with the idea of creating new adventures in your life.
New Products
Through trial and error we have developed a new yoga mat that is specifically for those who experience slipping while in the poses. There are a few mats on the market that make claims to be non-slip, but as Jackie will attest, are not effective. The prototype is off to be manufactured and we hope to have them for sale soon. We have a couple more surprises on the horizon.
Schedule Changes
There is one schedule change for the month of September: The Bonita Springs Thursday 9:30am - 10:30am class will be canceled this month and will resume October 12.
Kids Yoga
We have expanded the Kids Yoga program into two separate classes: 3pm – 3:45 ages 3-6, Big Kids Yoga ages 7-12. Our Kids Yoga instructor is daughter/sister Rochelle Chiodo Joslin. She holds a Masters in Education from La Moyne College and is integral to our exciting plans to expand this area of practice. As you begin to evolve in a new and positive way, imagine if you had begun when you were 4 years old!!! There are many studies being conducted on the benefits of yoga for elementary age children and the information forthcoming is incredibly exciting. Improvement is seen in all areas after only one class (just like in big people!). If you would like to read more, pick up this months issue of Yoga + Joyful Living (available at any of the larger bookstores). Kids Yoga requires pre-registration so contact the studio to get your child started. If you have an interest in us providing yoga at your childs school, please have your school administrator contact the studio. Class will start mid-October, call to register.
In appreciation, gratitude and joy,
Namaste'Tess and Jackie Chiodo
