Practice Over Performance

At Shanti Yoga Training School, we are not trying to reinvent yoga or reshape it into something more marketable.Our intention is to study the practice deeply, continue learning from it over time, and teach it with clarity, honesty, and respect for its roots.
Not every class needs to feel groundbreaking or entertaining. Sometimes the most valuable part of practice is simply showing up consistently and doing the work with attention and patience.

What matters to us is that students are taught thoughtfully, carefully, and without unnecessary performance or distraction.
There is a difference between being devoted to practice itself and being devoted to the image of practice. One path chases attention and novelty. The other stays grounded in discipline, curiosity, and long-term study.

We know this approach may not always appear exciting from the outside. Tradition is often quiet. Repetition is part of learning. Some practices feel inspired, while others feel simple and steady. Yet we continue to return, again and again, because depth is built through consistency — not constant reinvention.
We are not interested in gimmicks, trends, or turning yoga into something easier to sell. We believe there is value in teaching the practice with integrity, substance, and care.

No fluff.

Just yoga.

Rooted, simple, intelligent, and taught with attention.

Teaching Yoga Postures

Do I enjoy teaching yoga asana? Yes.

But are postures the end-all, be-all of this lifelong practice? No.

People ask me this question often.

Today, I took the time to reflect — to sit in silence.

I could write an entire book about the benefits of stepping onto the mat — breathing consciously, training the mind toward focus and awareness, inhabiting this human body with intelligence and care. The physical practice is powerful. It steadies us. It strengthens us. It refines attention.

But it is not the whole of yoga.

Anyone who has truly spent years practicing — and doing the inner work — knows that the real yoga happens off the mat.

I’m not interested in debating definitions. Yoga can mean many things to many people. For me, it is a way of living.

It is honoring all beings.

It is standing your ground when it matters.

It is speaking up for yourself when necessary — unapologetically.

It is learning healthy boundaries.

It is placing the oxygen mask on yourself first so you can genuinely care for others.

Yoga teaches me to slow down. To smell the flowers. To plant a garden. To treat others with dignity. To live by the simple truth: do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Living your yoga is a daily practice.

It is catching yourself in your mistakes.

Doing better when you know better.

Recognizing that we are free beings — and that while it may sound cliché, we are part of something larger than ourselves.

There is the macro and the micro.

I see many people speak grand philosophies about peace and love — yet struggle to be kind to the neighbor next door, the person at the coffee shop, the server at a restaurant, the colleague down the hall.

This is where yoga is tested.

Life will humble you. It will bring you to your knees when you least expect it. And those moments — painful as they are — become our greatest teachers. They strip away ego. They reveal truth. They offer us the opportunity to begin again.

Gratitude is a powerful frequency.

Be grateful for life as it is.

Look around. Be present.

Every day is an invitation.

Love exists in every breath.

The challenges we face strengthen us. Do not mistake someone who walks the path of peace for someone who is weak. True peace requires courage. Stand your ground. Believe in yourself.

There is chaos in the world. Let your life be a beacon of strength and light.

Stop living to impress. Start living in truth.

I am not moved by performance. I am moved by authenticity. Often the quietest lives — the ones unseen and unannounced — hold the strongest backbones on this Earth.

Tune out the noise. Social media. The constant commentary. The endless opinions.

No one can tell you who you are or how to think.

The answers are within you.

But for them to blossom, you/we must cultivate silence.

Photo credit: This photo was taken as at The House of Blues New Orleans for our artist series yoga event.

The Ritual of Black-Eyed Peas

Great food is never just about nourishment—it’s about rhythm, care, and the choices we make day after day. What we place on our plates shapes our energy, our clarity, and our ability to show up fully for our lives. When food is prepared with intention and sourced with respect, it becomes an act of devotion rather than consumption. Over time, these small, mindful moments accumulate, supporting longevity not only in years, but in vitality, presence, and joy. Have a beautiful day and great meals!

A Bowl of Good Fortune

New Year’s Eve is about celebration. New Year’s Day is about intention. Across cultures, January 1 carries a quiet gravity—an invitation to begin again, wisely and hopefully. In the American South, that hope often arrives in the form of a humble bowl of black-eyed peas.

Long associated with luck, prosperity, and forward momentum, black-eyed peas have been eaten on New Year’s Day for generations. The symbolism is simple and poetic: the peas resemble coins, leafy greens represent paper money, and cornbread stands in for gold.

Despite their name, black-eyed peas are beans, also known as cowpeas. They originated in West Africa and were brought to the United States through the transatlantic slave trade. Africans cultivated them throughout the South, embedding these resilient, nourishing beans into the region’s foodways. While black-eyed peas were eaten ceremonially in West Africa, the New Year’s luck tradition itself comes from European superstition. Over time, the two cultures merged. The ritual is European, and the vessel is African.

Today, the tradition continues in many forms—from classic recipes to vegetarian stews, curries, and modern reinterpretations. Whether simmered slowly on the stove or simply shared at the table, black-eyed peas offer more than sustenance. They carry memory, resilience, and aspirations that the year ahead will be abundant.

If you’re looking for a grounded, meaningful way to welcome 2026, a pot of black-eyed peas is a beautiful place to begin.

Here is one of my favorite black-eyed peas recipes

Savory Vegetarian Black-Eyed Peas

A hearty and flavorful dish packed with veggies, a hint of smokiness, and a tangy finish. Perfect as a side or a main dish!

Serves: 4 to 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes (plus time for pressure release)

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (soaked overnight) or 2 cups canned black-eyed peas (rinsed and drained)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 medium carrots, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup collard greens, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

• 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• Optional Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

• A drizzle of olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the black-eyed Peas:

• Soak black-eye peas overnight 

2. Sauté the vegetables:

• Instant Pot: Use the “sauté” option on the Instant Pot 

• Stovetop: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat

• Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Add the greens and spices:

• Stir in the collard greens, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the greens begin to soften.

4. Combine with Liquid: Add the cooked black-eyed peas (or canned peas), vegetable broth, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well.

5. Simmer:

• Instant Pot: 13 minutes cooked on high pressure in Instapot. Followed by 15 minutes release pressure.

• Stovetop: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.

7. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Pair with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Add depth: A small splash of liquid smoke or smoked soy sauce can enhance the smoky flavor.

• Storage: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Bon Appetit

La Rue Mouffetard | Paris

One of my favorite streets in Paris! 

This one is particularly dear to me because it's where I lived and spent much of my time enjoying its unique charm.

Beloved by the locals, La Rue Mouffetard's unique blend of history, culture, and daily Parisian life makes it a must-visit destination in Paris.

La Rue Mouffetard is unique for several reasons:

• Historical Significance: Dating back to the Roman era, it is one of the oldest streets in Paris, offering a tangible connection to the city's ancient past.

• Vibrant Street Market: It hosts one of the oldest and most lively street markets in Paris, where locals and visitors can purchase fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other gourmet delights.

• Charming Atmosphere: The street retains its old-world charm with cobblestone paths, narrow lanes, and traditional Parisian architecture, providing a picturesque setting.

• Cultural Blend: It is a melting pot of cultures and activities, with quaint shops, bustling cafes, and a vibrant community atmosphere. This mix makes it a lively and dynamic part of the city.

• Culinary Delights: The area is known for its fantastic food scene, with numerous bakeries, patisseries, bistros, creperies, and restaurants offering a taste of authentic French cuisine.

• Historic Landmarks: Key sites like the Church of Saint-Médard and the Place de la Contrescarpe add to its historical and cultural appeal.

P A R I S - City of Light, is a dream destination for travelers from around the world

P A R I S - City of Light, is a dream destination for travelers from around the world.
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Spending a few days in this enchanting city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and romance.
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Start your journey with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, where you can take in breathtaking views of the cityscape. Stroll along the charming streets of Montmartre, home to the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica & vibrant artists’ square, Place du Tertre -my personal favorite!
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Explore the Louvre Museum to marvel at masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. I personally love the permanent Egyptian art exhibit the Louvre offers!
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Don’t miss a leisurely walk along the Seine River, where you can discover the picturesque bridges and bookstalls. Where you may hop on a boat cruise such as the Bateau Mouche, you will not regret it.
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Savor exquisite French cuisine in cozy bistros, and indulge in delectable pastries at local patisseries. It is almost impossible to find “bad food” in Paris. Oh  if you are a wine lover... You are in for a treat!
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A trip to Paris is incomplete without visiting the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the historic neighborhood of Le Marais, known for its narrow medieval lanes and trendy boutiques. As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic evening cruise on the Seine, soaking in the city’s illuminated landmarks.
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My first apartment in Paris was right by Notre-Dame - I could see the Cathedral every day from my window :) Fun fact!
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Whether you’re exploring world-renowned art, savoring culinary delights, or simply soaking up the Parisian ambiance, a few days in Paris will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return.
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Over my next few posts I will explore my favorite places in Paris & London, where I was fortunate enough to just return from. Plus I'll review and share with you some of my favorite hotels.

Future posts will be a mix of cool upcoming yoga offerings such as a “Three Day Immersion” with @island.movement in St Croix, Virgin Island - happening this June and a new fresh Yoga Teacher Training Program with @ascendwellness333_lafayette in the beautiful Southern city of Lafayette, Louisiana.
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All very exciting!
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Oh and of course more yoga and animals! 
That’s always a non-negotiable.
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Follow along here!

Or on IG @NathalieCroix

Happy Travels!

Transform Yourself and the World with Yoga Teacher Training

In the hustle and bustle of today’s modern world, self-care and personal growth often take a backseat. We find ourselves caught up in the noise and stress of everyday life, and as a result, our inner peace and wellbeing take a hit. Here's where the gift of yoga comes in, and more specifically, Yoga Teacher Training (YTT). YTT isn't just about guiding others through their yoga journey - it's a profound journey of personal transformation and global betterment. Let's delve into why enrolling in a Yoga Teacher Training can be a transformative journey for you and the planet.

1. Nurture Your Personal Growth

Embarking on a YTT journey goes far beyond learning the physical postures. It is an immersive experience in understanding the philosophy, principles, and depths of yoga. It's about cultivating mindfulness, discipline, and self-awareness - qualities that help you grow not just as a yogi but as an individual. You dive into the depths of your consciousness, and in the process, you uncover facets of yourself you didn't know existed. As you journey towards uncovering the profound depths of your being, you pave the way for healing old wounds, creating space and consequently cultivating inner tranquility and living a more balanced life.

2. Enhance Self-Care Practices

Self-care isn't just about pampering yourself - it's about creating a harmonious relationship between your mind, body, and soul. YTT instills in you the principles of holistic wellness. By teaching you proper alignment, healthy diet, breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation, YTT provides you with the tools to self regulate, manage stress, maintain good health, and enhance mental clarity. It empowers you to make mindful choices that prioritize your wellbeing.

3. Elevate Your Emotional Intelligence

YTT involves diving deep into yoga's philosophical roots, promoting a greater understanding of self, emotions, and interrelationships. It cultivates empathy, compassion, and emotional stability, leading to more meaningful relationships and interactions. This elevation in emotional intelligence translates into all areas of your life - from personal to professional interactions.

4. Empower Others

As a certified yoga teacher, you don't just reap the benefits of yoga for yourself - you have the power to pass them onto others. Whether it's helping someone find relief from stress, build body confidence, or cultivate mindfulness, you make a tangible difference in people's lives. You guide them towards better physical, mental, and emotional health, leading to overall societal wellbeing.

5. Contribute to Global Harmony

Now, let's take a step further and see how YTT benefits the planet. When you practice and teach yoga, you contribute to a collective consciousness grounded in unity, empathy, and respect for all living beings. This yogic philosophy of interconnectedness encourages environmental stewardship, promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Moreover, the peace and understanding fostered by yoga can contribute to global harmony, nudging the world towards a less divisive and more compassionate place.

6. Join a Global Community

Upon completing your YTT, you join a global community of yoga practitioners and teachers. This community isn't bound by geography or culture - it's a network of individuals unified by their love for yoga and mutual respect. This sense of belonging and unity amplifies the shared effort towards personal growth and global betterment.

Yoga Teacher Training offers an enriching journey of self-discovery, personal development, and wellness. As a beacon of yoga, you can inspire others towards healthier lifestyles while contributing to the planet's wellbeing. YTT isn't just a step towards becoming a yoga teacher - it's a step towards becoming a better you, and through you, creating a better world. Why wait? Let the transformative journey begin today.

Inspired to embark on a Yoga Teacher Training journey?

We invite you to join our upcoming Fall Immersion In-Person and Online - Hybrid Yoga Program. As a Yoga Alliance Registered School, we bring to the table more than a decade of teacher training experience. 

Embrace the timeless wisdom of the ages with our unique offering: Classical Yoga for Modern Times. Seamlessly integrating age-old practices into the rhythm of contemporary life, our program allows you to experience the profound benefits of traditional yoga in a way that resonates with your modern lifestyle. Join us to unlock a balance between the past and the present, harmony within yourself, and a deeper connection to the world around you.

Ancient wisdom for modern times.

We're incredibly eager to connect with you, guiding you as you embark on this transformative journey. 

Click HERE and enroll now and become a part of our esteemed yoga community!

Have questions? Reach out! shantiyoganola@gmail.com

The time for yoga is now.

N A M A S T E !

Nathalie Croix (lead trainer) and Shanti Yoga Training School Team

Sound Healing Ceremony & Benefits

What Is Sound Healing ?

Sound Therapy is effective in not only achieving a state of relaxation but it also has a way of moving through blockages in the body. 

Sound Therapy has been known to help treat such conditions as stress, anxiety, high blood pressure, depression, sleep disorders and pain.

It is a healing modality that dates way back, from vocal chanting to instruments such as Tibetan singing bowls, shamanic drums, and more, you will find some form of sound healing in every culture on Earth.

How does it work?

During a sound healing session, also known as a sound bath, you'll typically lie down on the floor or a yoga mat, perhaps cuddle up with a cozy blanket, and simply listen up as a practitioner plays

Sound Healing Benefits -

Super-relaxing
Deep relaxation is one of the most significant and universal benefits of sound therapy.

Sound healing helps clears energetic blockages body, mind and spirit.

Some people experience deep healing during sound therapy as the sound vibrations open, clear, and balance their chakras and release stuck energy. 

Boosts Your Health
That's right—it's not completely woo-woo. Research has already demonstrated that sound healing can be incredibly beneficial. Watch the Netflix documentary HEAL for more information of research.

Benefits may include improved sleep, reduction of chronic pain and blood pressure, lowered cholesterol, and a decreased risk of heart disease, supports mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being

It also heals on the mental and emotional levels. 

Sound healing helps reduce

• stress

• anxiety

• depression

It balances and clears the mind, and leads to a renewed sense of purpose, well-being, calm, and happiness.

What to expect from a sound healing session....

Like with most alternative healing modalities and meditative practices, everyone's experience is different, and new things may come up in each session. 

Most people will feel very relaxed and peaceful during a sound healing; some might have visualizations, receive creative downloads, or have an emotional breakthrough.

Others may go to a mental state in which you are not quite awake and not quite asleep. It often feels like you're floating peacefully through time and space.

Each experience is unique.

Sound bath
Attending a sound bath is a great way to snag the benefits of the practice with a group. 

During a sound bath, you lie down and relax comfortably while you are bathed in healing vibrations of sound.

Surround yourself in nature and come join us at The River Retreat House for a special sound healing ceremony.

@theriverretreathouse

About The River Retreat House 

The River Retreat House is a sacred green sanctuary nook. 

Waterfront property surrounded by nature, with access to the Tchefuncte River in Louisiana.

This recently renovated house with plenty of outdoors space and a boat deck, has been created with healing in mind.

Enjoy the sound of the crickets under the stars.

Disconnect from the world in a quiet sanctuary for exploring our thoughts, spirituality, creativity, inner silence and peace.

Only 50 minutes from New Orleans.

Conveniently located 15 minutes from downtown Covington.

The surrounded by water property provides fresh air 
to heal your spirit and calm your mind.


This holistic home is intentionally designed to heal.

Morning Rituals

Good Morning !

Yesterday, in our SUPPORTED teachers meeting, we covered a segment of The LIGHT CODE Planner : The importance of MORNING RITUALS and ideas on how to navigate your sacred morning space to set you up for a successful day.

Here is a passage of The LIGHT CODE Planner for you :

Morning Ritual

What is your morning ritual? I highly suggest you spare yourself some time first thing in the morning, and wake up earlier if you have to, this is imperative. So important. It will set you up for a successful day. Wake up with a morning routine and make sure to take a moment to yourself. Everyone is different and there is no right or wrong here. The most important thing is that you honor yourself.

Here are some examples: my morning routine consists of walking my dogs, grounding (placing my feet on the earth) feeding my animals, a mindful tea practice, journaling, and oftentimes meditation. A good friend of mine likes to wake up before her family is awake and take a nice relaxing long bath with salts, this sets her up for a successful day.

Another person I know wakes up and loves to unload the dishwasher first thing in the morning, after that he takes care of his animals and his plants, harvests his garden (this makes him super happy), following this he does breath-work, prayers, and visualizations for the day. His morning rituals set him up for success. Morning visualizations are super powerful. Check out the work of Dr. Joe Dispenza for more on visualizations. Another friend loves to stretch first thing in the morning and go out in the sun for at least 10 minutes, and another friend loves to wake up before the sun and watch the sunrise, this lights up her day.

What is your morning routine? Remember they can be whatever you want them to be and they do not have to be static, everything is always changing. Welcome each morning as a brand new day with infinite possibilities.

Your morning sacred space, can be a great time to work on your art, or any creative project.

If you have a full household you may need to wake up an hour or two before everyone in your family, furry ones included. Many students I work with, tell me this is their only quiet time each day.

We all need quiet, sacred time to be with ourselves, to gather our energy so that we can show up to others at our fullest authentic Self and be present for whatever life brings forth.

Make sure you get enough rest. If you made the decision to wake up earlier, do you need to go to bed earlier?

Reprogram your life so that all your needs are met.

My mornings are also one of my non-negotiables, and with exceptions here and there I don't take meetings before 11AM. Implementing this simple rule has been one of the best decisions I've ever made, a game changer for me.

Remember there is no ONE WAY-----> there is only YOUR WAY.

As we know too well things are always changing, therefore embrace each season of your life as a new one and see what changes you want to create to make life work for you.

Lot’s of Love,

Nathalie Croix

Restoring In Winter Months ~ Self Care Practices

As we gradually approach winter, we’re offered an opportunity to slow down and look inward.

Introspection is not simple; it calls for self-awareness, deliberate effort, and quiet contemplation.

How do we do it?

Ask yourself:

Are my thoughts and actions in harmony with the type of person I want to be?

Am I living my life intentionally and deliberately to reach my goal?

When we reflect and courageously bring our lives into alignment, we are on the pathways that lead us to peace.

A note from our friend Colin Hudon from Living Tea..

Reception…

Tis the season to transition into reception and introspection in the Northern Hemisphere. We are gently being invited to slow down, harvest and store food (resources) for winter, and let go of what we have been holding onto internally. This opportunity creates “space” for new experiences with ‘self’ and others that help us learn, grow and enjoy the moments that are unfolding around us.

Letting Go…

In addition, the Fall provides us with the conditions to welcome us to let go of self arising and unresolved grief. When, we hold onto unresolved grief, past stories and/or repress grief that naturally arises in the present moment, we weaken the energy of the lungs.

A simply approach to processing grief and sadness is to provide yourself the space to be with the emotions, digest them and then eliminate them (let them go). Letting go means lying them down. You do not need to keep returning to the old story, memory or situation. You can give yourself permission to find neutral and move forward. When this occurs, you create more space for positive emotions to fill our lives and hearts. The sadness and/or grief actually is providing you with the opportunity to clean house and welcome in the new. It is our attachment to a situation, person and/or place that prevents us from moving

on.

Activities to support the LET GO…

Deep Breathing. DAILY. Fill the belly and lungs to capacity with air. As you exhale, release through the mouth and gently press the tongue against the teeth.

Eat warm foods. Primary flavor…Pungent. Some supportive foods: garlic, leek, onion, ginger, sweet potato, cabbage, asparagus, broccoli, celery, cucumber, mustard greens, radish, walnuts, almonds, black pepper, chili, cinnamon, cardamom, rice, navy beans, soy beans, miso, apricot, pear, banana and eggs.

Integrative approach: Self Care (meditation, self massage, walks in nature, conserve energy, sleep more), Acupuncture, Massage and herbal supplements as prescribed. ​

NOW IS AN EXCELLENT TIME TO:

. Get to bed early. The hours of 10 PM to 6 AM are your best for the most restorative sleep.

. Create a luxurious morning or evening ritual that stimulates each sense.

. Read more for enjoyment.

.Take long baths with candles, incense, and music.

. Slow down by removing things from your schedule and to do list.

. Take care of your skin. Using high-quality organic products of course.

The more you space you create for yourself to receive enjoyment from life, the more abundance you’ll experience overall.

SOME THINGS TO INCLUDE, HOLISTICALLY SPEAKING…

• Eat more root vegetables (i.e. beets, sweet potatoes, onions), warming spices (i.e. ginger, turmeric, garlic) and cooked vegetables

• Include more soups, stews

• Practice Yin yoga

• Get cozy and snuggle with loved ones

• Make time for soulful conversations and connection with your girlfriends

• Create time to connect with yourself through meditation, journaling, and listening to your body and intuition

• Create a practice of letting go regularly. Contemplate what you can let go of today. Is it self-judgment, perfectionism, fear, anxiety or worry? Write it down, burn the paper or allow it to dissolve in water.

The Shungite Aghora Crystals Collection

T H E   S H U N G I T E  C O L L E C T I O N

Shungite stone crystal has a unique composition. It's a natural mineral with powerful healing properties.

Shungite uplifts your space, protects you from EMF radiation and 5G. 

Known for its ability help you navigate harmful electromagnetic radiation (as found in cell phones, computers, televisions and microwaves), by causing the subtle fields in the environment to become more bio compatible. Absorbs and eliminates everything that imposes a hazard to life, but restores all that is beneficial.

Shungite is a catalyst for positive change and growth with its incredible ability to ground. 

This is a powerful energetically healing stone for you to add to your healing art collection to beautify your home or as an altar piece. 

This stone is pure magic.

Aghora Crystals one of a kind shungite pieces have been intentionally energized by me ( Nathalie Croix), in meditations, reiki, rituals, ceremonies by the river, fire, under trees, sun and stars for several months.

THESE STONES ARE SO POWERFUL I SUGGEST THEM AS AN ALTAR PIECE. 

How to clear my Aghora Crystal raw natural shungite ?

Do not place in in water. Energize your shungite on the ground, on grass, by a tree, under the night sky, moon, stars and with sun. Sun is the favorite method to re-charge your shungite. You can also place it by a selenite crystal for a couple of days and this too is a favorite method.

My shungite altar piece loves to sunbathe outdoors under a tree for hours.

Zazhoginsky field is one of the richest Russian fields of Shungite on the territory of the Republic of Karelia.

ZAZHOGINSKY mine is the world's best quality Shungite. 

100% raw authentic Shungite is a rare find and exclusive to our new AGHORA CRYSTALS collection.

THE PROPERTIES OF THIS CRYSTAL COULDN’T BE MORE NEEDED IN CURRENT TIMES.

It is recommended you place a 100% authentic Shungite near your computer or electronics for EMF neutrality and protection.

Shungite also assists you with dream work and grounding. If you want to go deep into astral travel during your sleep at night and come forth with many revelations, place your shungite by your bed stand at night or under your bed. I recommend you do this no more than three times a week. This is a powerful stone and we need to ask for all healing and soul evolution to happen in the organic LIGHT CODE, in divine timing and for the highest good of everyone involved. If you need further guidance connect to your Highest Self, for your Highest Self has the most insight to all your answers, or you can book a distance energy healing session with me.

I am sending you so much love !

May all the portals of awakening clear all the paths for your soul evolution in harmony and peace.

Nathalie Croix

Fall Equinox ~ Welcoming New Beginnings !

The word equinox comes from Latin and means, 

“Equality of Night and Day.”

At this point in time, the sun is directly above the hemisphere, meaning that both halves of the Earth are receiving the sun's rays equally, and the length of day and night are pretty much the same. There are two equinoxes each year — one in the spring and one in the fall.

The equinox is a highly significant moment in time to many different cultures and practices, including pagans, Wiccans, and astrologers, because it's very telling of the relationships between the Earth and the Sun at this time of the year.

During the equinox, the veil between the spiritual and physical world gets thinner, allowing us to receive messages, information and to communicate more effectively our heart's desires. 

Traditionally, the equinox was celebrated as a time to cleanse out stagnant energy within the self and homes / spaces.

 This day ushers in a period of rebirth. 

You'll feel pulled toward tackling new and exciting projects.

It's also a good time to ...

• Experiment with your creativity

• Clean out your closet

• Pick up a new hobby

• Make travel plans

• Get out of your comfort zone in some way

This Is The Perfect Time To Reflect And Reset. 

I Invite You To ...

• Create an Altar

• Begin Your Day with a Morning Ritual

• Light a Candle

• Light an Organic Incense 

• Cook a Plant Based Vegeterian Stew - look for recipes in my book LIVING LIFE IN LIGHT

• Take a Salt Bath

• Buy Fresh Flowers 

• Take a Walk In Nature & Notice The Leaves Changing Colors

• Watch a Sunrise 

• Watch a Sunset

• Stargaze 
  
  Journaling Question:
  What new intentions will you be setting forth as a seed and mindset to welcome new begginings this Fall?

NOW IS THE TIME TO REPRIORITIZE & REALIGN WITH THE COSMIC UNIVERSE

With Love,

Nathalie Croix

Top Summer Activities For You To Enjoy

Yoga On Zoom with Shanti Yoga Training School 

Join me ( Nathalie Croix) every Friday from the comfort of your home for a vinyasa yoga class at 12PM CT - Become a member of our Yoga School for $30 per month and have access to our digital library with many yoga classes available to you at all times plus masterclasses with guest presenters and an extensive library of content with yoga on and off the mat. Watch one of our wellness presentations, meditations, yoga life style, Ayurveda, nature themes and many more. Look for YACEP MEMBERSHIP

Want to to dive deeper into yoga? Join  one of our virtual programs. 

Our School offers 100, 200, and 300 Hour Virtual Trainings

shantiyogatrainingschool.com/virtual-trainings

Paddleboarding

There is something magical about gliding on the surface and listening to the water lap around you. Paddleboarding allows a person to fully immerse themselves into the tranquil outdoors. It requires a full-body workout to navigate and maintain balance in order to avoid flipping over.  Once you get the hang of it try to incorporate some basic yoga move such as downward dog or a chair pose. This will do wonders for your body by engaging muscles that you may not normally use when on land. It can be a perfect hobby for everyone, whether you make it a workout ritual or if you just want to explore the local waterways.

Outdoor cardio

The summer is a perfect excuse to ditch the gym and head outdoors for your workout. It doesn't have to be vigorous it can be as simple as going for a walk, jog, or leisure bike ride. Exercising outdoors can help with seasonal affective disorder and depression. This is because sunshine stimulates the production of serotonin, which can help boost your overall mood. The rays also enable the body to release nitric oxide and in turn lower blood pressure. This improves heart health and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. It can also be a great way to spend time with friends. Get a workout buddy that helps you stay motivated. Don't have any active friends? Bring your dog or enjoy some alone time.

Gardening

Get your hands dirty and lay down some new roots this summer by planting your own garden. A good garden feeds the mind and body. Growing your own fruits and vegetables will help you manage a healthier diet and promote a better lifestyle. On the other hand, it can improve mental health by reducing stress and boosting your overall mood.  Use your garden as a quiet, peaceful place to find your personal Zen. Practice being mindfully present while gardening, your anxiety and worries start to slip away as you become one with nature.

Swimming

Summer heat got ya beat? Grab a towel and cool off by the pool, beach or lake! Swimming is an ideal activity that is easily accessible and fun for people of any age! This relaxing activity can help clear your mind while also tone your body. As you propel through the water, you participate in an aerobic workout that engages arm, leg, and core muscles. It is an easy way to stay fit, make friends, and have fun!


Stargazing

Mapping out constellations is a perfect way to spend those breezy summer nights. It is such an easy way to have an adventure without going far, especially for those stuck at home. Just wait for dark and look up! The night sky is a timeless canvas that reveals ancient stories about gods, heroes, and mythical creatures making it a perfect scavenger hunt. So, kick back and relax in awe while observing the true wonders of the universe.

" The Darkest of Nights Produce the Brightest Stars" 

- John Green

Nathalie Croix

Shanti Yoga Training School

E-RYT  500  lead trainer  

"Practice And All Is Coming"

Photo taken in Mysore, India with a local Indian Musician.

As I sit here today, in preparation for my virtual weekend yoga training, updating my online platform and diving into the world of Ashtanga Yoga on the mat, the series of postures, as well as The Eight Limbs of Yoga : today I miss this one.... the one who once told me and the world, "Practice and All Is Coming". My former teacher Pattabhi Jois. Remembering him and our first encounter. I had to re-read THIS article about his life, where many of his students share their experience with Guruji and how he impacted their life. I can't deny a feeling of a certain kind of sadness, or should I say melancholy. Have you every met someone who because of their presence in your life whether in person or in distance you became a better person? If you have, you know exactly what I am talking about. That person to me was Pattabhi Jois. When I first met him I was a kid. Before making my way to India to study in his school, there were practices and gatherings in Los Angeles and New York during his world tours. Before I was ever in his physical presence I was familiar with the ashtanga practice .The asana series itself was a big life changing factor in my life. I became stronger, more disciplined and I loved how the practice made me feel more grounded and awake. I was finally in my body. I was 21 when I meet Guruji in person, and 22 on my first of many trips to Mysore, India. Being in his presence sparked and awakened an inner light in me that to this day I am moved by it. It is this force field that has me teaching yoga and sharing the many gifts of yoga with the world, and not because he is an Indian Guru, or some sort of blind faith in a dogmatic sense, no that is not my story. I have never been one to follow extremes, if you know me, this probably comes across quickly. I am not a black or white type of person. Sometimes the lines are blurry, we need to read the in-betweens and have discernment for what is wrong or right for each. My surrender to Guruji, comes from the fact that he is a great master of his time and the transmission of Shakti, divine energy, was the essence of our student teacher relationship. To say he made me a better human, practitioner, student, and yoga teacher is to say the least. I had Shanti Yoga Shala, studio for nine years, and for nine years we had an altar devoted to him, with the beautiful photo of him and his beloved wife, Amma, on the altar ( oh I treasured that photo). There was not one day I didn't feel his presence in our sacred space and in my teachings, or in my heart. Every day I lit a candle for Guruji, to honor his life and foremost to honor the life he has awakened within me. To honor the many gifts he gave me, grace, love, compassion, inner peace, love of nature, animals, among the many. It is that force, that steadiness, focus and Jedi quality that lives within us - which many of his students have experienced. If I can offer my students a fraction of that essence I know I have lived a good life, a life worth it's purpose. In the practice room in Mysore, often times my practice time was 4AM, on days that I was weak in Spirit, he gave me strength, he pushed me and would ask me to repeat the postures I had trouble with two, three times in a fierce way. On days I was sick, but not mature enough to skip practice, he would walk up to me and tell me to go home and take rest in his gentle way. He just knew. 

I bugged him during office hours to ask questions about meditation, and after practice he would ask me to sit for half hour in sukhasana (half lotus), before Savasana... I can still hear his voice saying... " You Practice and All Is Coming" . On conference days I was one of the first ones to arrive and one of the last ones to leave the Shala, until Saraswati would tell me you go home rest. I loved the call and response to Sanskrit postures after practice, and attended it each time, thrilled. I loved feeding bananas to the cows on the streets of Mysore. Gathering with the yogis at the coconut stand and chatting for hours each day. I loved the simplicity of our life style back then and waking up with the chant of the mosque each morning at dawn. In the early days there was no Internet in my apartment, the lights went off at 7:30/8PM and only cold showers, no hot water. A mosquito nest surrounded my bed and it was all perfect, one of the happiest times of my life. I had to re-visit my memory of this time as I prepare for my yoga training this weekend. Fast forward so much has changed. Change is the only constant, as yoga teaches us. There has been accusations of sexual misconduct, I am aware. It's undeniable that it's unfortunate any time this happens, and much of the conversation has been on this theme lately. I don't have much to say since I never saw or experienced anything similar and in fact my experience has been quite the opposite. We can't deny or erase those experiences, nor can we deny or erase the one I've had. In the darkest hours of our Souls may we find redemption and forgiveness for those who have made mistakes, for we too have made mistakes and we must forgive ourselves and others. I don't think any situation is black or white. I honor all truths and I am here to share and live my own truth. I am fortunate to have the life I have and the experiences who made me who I am today. I know without a doubt that had I not met Pattabhi Jois, my life would be very different today. I am forever grateful to all the teachings, the awakenings, and all the yoga on and off the mat. I am thankful for being led and shown the path of living life in light. One day after practice and after bugging Guruji for many months about his Navaratna traditional India gold ring, because I love beauty, I was sent to his family's jeweler and I finally had my own Navaratna custom made. It felt very special to share the same jeweler and back then the ring was a lot of money for me, many sacrifices were made so I could own that ring. To this day, over twenty years later,  I wear my Navaratna ring. During practice, Guruji was so proud of me when he saw how beautiful my ring turned out. He always commented on my ring. I hope that wherever he is today, he can look down and still be proud of me and his many students and the path he has led us on. 

I hope that we are continuing his work, even if only a fraction, because I know it will be magnificent. Yoga looks very different today, but the essence is the same. I never met Krishnamacharya, but I have a knowing he was a great Soul. Perhaps we have known each other in other lives, or other forms of existence. 

I wonder what he would say of all the online yoga and virtual trainings. I have a feeling they would be proud and encourage us to embrace the world as it is today, to see the challenges as opportunities and to continue spreading love, light and the path to Self realization no matter how, where and when - to step up and show up to the world as the world shows up to us. After all yoga has been around for thousands of years, it has always continued to be relevant and to adapt to new age. Yoga is eternal. Yoga is not going anywhere. Yoga is not asking for permission. For the last two years I have embraced yoga online and it has opened a whole new world for me. Thank you for that. Not only it has been a learning curve, which I love new challenges,  but it has connected me to people who otherwise I would not have access to and how awesome is that? Both as a teacher and a student,  working virtually via zoom, livestreams, online courses, various platforms,  has brought my practice and teachings to a whole new level and for that I am super grateful. There are no limits, no barriers, no distance. This is the age of information at our fingertips in the comfort of our homes. If you feel inspired try this new level of access to eternal light, source, and if that is not for you thankfully there are many in person options. I happen to love both. I love both equally. I could write a whole book on why I feel this way, for one it has brought so much freedom into my life. A new level of freedom. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that by creating sacred space in my life, I am able to access higher levels of consciousness, creativity and by doing so I show up to myself as a better version of who I am and therefore to my yoga students and my community. Thank you Pattabhi Jois for holding space for me during the ten years of our Earth bound student, teacher relationship. I like to think in some way you are still here. Thank you for sparkling that inner light in me, so that I too could believe in myself and be a light for others. Thank you for all the wisdom, the Shakti transmission, and for holding space during the many years as I matured from a kid to a woman. Thank you for teaching me that no matter what is going on in life, or in our planet we can aways stay grounded, find our center and that the power is in neutrality. Your presence continues to inspire me each day. As you taught me that through the vast, enormous practice of yoga there is a journey to and through the Self. It takes courage to embark on this journey, not always easy but necessary. Not for everyone. An individual  will is required, as we all know.... when "there is a will, there is a way".  

This journey has offered me a vulnerability,  an intimate awakening and connection to my heart space. The heart is the connector to all beings, we are one. We are light and we are love, even in the darkest hours there is love. Only love is real. There is magic in chaos.

 If there is one thing I can pass on to my students is : Believe In Yourself.

There is a say that one candle can light many candles. Guruji was that candle for me, and I believe for many. Namaste.

I am teaching a virtual training this weekend : Topics: Eight Limbs, Ashtanga Yoga, Yoga History, Yoga Nidra.

If you enjoyed this reading consider my book Living Life In Light, A Yogi's Journey. Join my membership site check it out on nathaliecroix.com/members-portal

This photo was taken in India, the man is a local musician I met in Mysore.

4 Easy Ways To Make Shower & Bath Time Sacred

Creating sacred space in our lives is always a topic of interest for us at Shanti Yoga Training School and LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST

Today we have a special guest blog on 4 Easy Ways To Make Shower& Bath Time Sacred by one of our beloved yogini's 200 Hour Shanti Yoga Training School graduate Sonja Haile, who is the founder of Satya Sage - Sonja creates beautiful candles, oils and smudge blends. Visit her website www.satyasage.com and treat yourself.

4 Easy Ways To Make Shower & Bath Time Sacred

Often times a busy schedule can deter you from slowing down and enjoying little things in life. We have to cleanse ourselves in the shower or bath, though… Why not be a little extra and make the most of it? Below I’ve put together a few suggestions that will bring your inner goddess out during bath time:

Clean Space – A clean, uncluttered space is the ultimate foundation of a clear mind. Take the time to recycle empty shower gel bottles or anything that no longer serves you in your bathroom space. Wipe off the bathroom countertops and sink, sweep the floor, and make sure everything is sparkling before you step into the tub.

Palo Santo – Palo Santo is an ancient practice used to remove negative energy and invite good vibes into your space. Light Palo Santo before you shower to clear the space. See our Smudging with White Sage post for details on how to smudge your house. As a bonus, Palo Santo has an amazing woodsy sweet scent. It’s one of my favorite smells, ever.

Candles – It’s not a mood if a candle isn’t involved! You can also use diffused essential oils to create a relaxing, goddess-worthy energy. Lighting candles creates a distinct ceremonial vibe when added to bath time.

Plants – Think eucalyptus, dry roses, and lavender. There’s something about the rich color of plants that’s sure to enhance your relaxation. I love to add roses or lavender around the bathtub, or hang eucalyptus from the shower head for a refreshing aroma while I shower.

From my sacred space to yours, 

Sonja

CREATE & LET GO

NEW YEARS INTENTION AND GOAL SETTING 

I have a gift and a bonus for you so stay tuned.

I hope you enjoy my book Living Life In Light , LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST, Shanti Yoga Training School, Online Courses, Zoom Sessions through our Membership Site, and our many other offerings. 

Especially the LIGHT CODE Planner ! Yay! I suggest you get a copy of the LIGHT CODE planner asap. Grab one HERE

Check out all about the LIGHT CODE Planner HERE.

As the year, or any life cycle, comes to completion it's important to take a moment to reflect and pause.

Take an inventory and evaluation of your life before stepping into a new cycle, new you, fully and present.

In order to set intentions, it's important to release, let go of that which no longer serves you and create space for new energy so you can be the best version of yourself.

We are always learning and growing. 

Here is a workshop I teach as a gift to you. 

Take a moment of your day and journal on these questions - this is a great exercise for you to create new and fresh positive momentum in your life and your success. 

Whether you journal, or simply sit quietly and take a moment to reflect on each of these questions is totally up to you. 

There is no right or wrong way to go through this workshop. 

Connect with your heart space and do what feels right to you in this moment. Take an inspired action. 

However you decide to navigate these questions, it will be perfect and exactly what you need. But do something.

Take action.

LIFE CYCLE EVALUATION 

Set the right goals for this upcoming new life cycle…

Review ....

1- What are your highlights of this past year, or last six months?

2 - What challenges have you overcome recently?

3 - What positive life changes have you made?

4 - What was your top highlight of this last cycle review? And why was this so important to you?

5 - What are the top lessons learned ?

6 - What mistakes have you made these last six months or year and what have you learned from them?

7 - Are there any projects you haven't yet completed and would like to complete? If so... Create a five steps game plan.

8 - Is there anything you have been putting off? If so either “Let It Go - Completely - Take It Off Your List ” or …. “Get It Done - No Excuses”.

9 - Are there any left over resentments? Any emotional garbage and baggage you are ready to release?

10 - Anyone you need to forgive? The inability to forgive is like taking poison hoping someone else will die.

If you need to work on forgiveness practice a forgiveness mediation ASAP, there are many available online.

Do you need to forgive yourself?

If so… Forgive yourself for not knowing better and when you know better - DO BETTER > No Excuses.

11- What old stories are you telling yourself which no longer serve you?

Let go of any excuses, limited beliefs and victim mentality.

OWN YOUR TRUTH

12 - What do you want to experience and achieve this next six months or year?

Journal on each of these categories ….

• On a personal level - what are your goals?

  RELATIONSHIPS

• With Yourself

• Romantic

• Extended Family

• Friends

• Co-workers / business

• Mentorship / Do you have a mentor? Consider a mentor with someone who is a little further along the path, who you admire and who can assist you along the way. A mentor can be someone you work with online. Many people have podcasts and online programs you can join. I currently work with my mentor in a Mastermind group which we meet once a month online via Zoom. In fact I am a member of two Mastermind groups with monthly meetings, it’s a great way to keep myself motivated, learning and growing.

  I myself offer a mentorship program via LIGHT CODE check out our Member’s Portal.

  Mentors find ways to stimulate our personal and professional growth. Click HERE and See ten reasons why a mentor is a must.

• Networking

WHAT ABOUT PHILANTHROPY AND GIVING BACK?

• Is there a person, animal, child or organization you want to contribute to their success ?

Can you set a reccuring monthly payment with Paypal for them? Remember no amount is too small. Everything matters. You can make a huge difference with small steps. Example : When I was in college I started donating money to PETA, I used to send $8 per month, which means in one year I donated $96 and in four $384, in ten years that would have been $960. I continue to donate each month to PETA as well as other organizations I believe in, as well as teachers I believe in and local sanctuaries. We all need to play a part in the betterment of humanity.

• How will you assist the Planet? What is your contribution?

13- What are your career goals for 2020?

14 - Places you want to travel and visit in 2020?

HEALTH AND WELLNESS GOALS

Create a weekly exercise program -

List what activities for each day.

My favorite exercises are ….

• Yoga

• Power Walking ( read on power walking page 65 of Living Life In Light by moi > Nathalie Croix). Also episode #27 of LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST

• Pilates

• Horseback riding

• Barre class

• Strength training at my gym

• skiing

• surfing

• Kayaking

What Are Yours?

Don’t forget to take rest at least one day per week. Recovery is everything.

Mindful Practices

Add in your weekly rituals mindful practices such as …

• Meditation

  I love the award wining APP HEADSPACE

• Journaling

• Yoga Nidra - check out episode #15

  of LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST

• Nature

• Brain Breaks ( amazing for children - do some research).

  Check out the Goldie Hawn Foundation a program for

  Empowering children through mindful practice based in neuroscience. www.mindup.org

• Visualizations

I love the work of Dr. Jerry Epstein

Check out his YouTube video on How to Practice Visualization & Mental Imagery HERE

• Pranayama

• Inspirational Readings

• PMA aka Positive Mental Attitude , make sure to read the book The PMA Effect by John Joseph, triathlete and Cro-Mags lead singer, who will soon appear on LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST -

  I love the audio book which JJ narrates himself, it’s awesome.

My Favorite category …

FUN

15 - What do you do for fun?

• What brings you joy? Do more of that!

No shame, no guilt, simply do what brings you joy!

• Write down / come up with at least eight “fun” / “joyful” activities.

What are your non negotiables ?

Examples mine are ….

Ideally …

• Sleep minimum 8 hours

• Meditate 20 minutes per day

• Infra red sauna once or twice a week

• Cryotherapy or cold plunge once a week

SELF CARE

Be committed to self care, make a list of your favorite self care rituals.

Here are some examples….

• Facials

• Massage

• Nail care

• Hair care

• Spa treatments you love

• Adventure trips

• Hiking

• Taking yourself out on “self dates”

Just because you are fabulous…

SOCIALS

• Bookclubs

• Dinner Parties

• Wine Tastings

• Looking for Spring Water club > consider joining www.findaspring.com

• Cooking Classes

• Girls Lunch Outings … or boys ….

Continue this work of awareness, gratitude and intention throughout the year.

Order the The LIGHT CODE Planner HERE

Set an intention for your new life cycle!

It is said that when we set intentions formed by the heart and mind, we plant a seed for transformation in our lives.

EVERYTHING BEGINS WITH INTENTION.

HAPPY NEW YEAR YA’LL !

However you choose to start your new life cycle, my wish for you is that you feel fabulous, because you are!

- follow your own North Star and shine bright!

Watch the Youtube Video of this virtual workshop and I will guide you through the questions.

Listen to this episode Create & Let Go on LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST

The New Year Episode - Create & Let Go - LIFE ON EARTH PODCAST #69

Nathalie Croix

I will be hosting a CREATE & LET GO 2020 workshop, stay tuned.

Here is a gift for you to practice and begin this new life cycle centered, grounded, in equanimity and shining bright

Chakras Meditation, Clearing (reiki energy distance healing) and Balancing - ENJOY!

MEDUSA

Remember When They Told Us Medusa Was A Monster?

The thing they call us when we stand our ground.

Medusa was not a monster. She was both beautiful and terrifying.

They called her a monster to take away her power. To diminish her.

To hide her other sides. We are all things and we are many sided.

The snakes in our hair are beautiful as the stars in our eyes.

Love all of my sides or none, for I have many.

- courtesy of @half_light

The Four Agreements - A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

By Don Miguel Ruiz

THE FOUR AGREEMENTS

The Four Agreements is a wonderful, life-changing book by Don Miguel Ruiz. It begins with a story about a Toltec man. The Toltecs were an indigenous peoples living in what is today called Mexico. This Toltec man realizes one day through a waking dream that he, like everything in the world, is made of light.

But even as he realizes this, he realizes that others are unable to recognize this light in themselves because of screens that we've created in our minds, based on what we've been taught by the modern day world & society. These are the standards we've been taught of how we should be, behave, and look - and they are a "dream" that we are living and assuming that we need to act within. “Ninety-five percent of the beliefs we have stored in our minds are nothing but lies, and we suffer because we believe all these lies.”

The author then goes on to explain that if we break out of these dreams and choose to live by the Four Agreements, we will discover a simple path to true peace and happiness. He goes into great detail with each Agreement, but we hope you enjoy our summaries of each one below!

AGREEMENT ONE

Be impeccable with your word. Impeccable is "free of sin". Do no harm with your word; do not use it against yourself (we are our harshest critics) nor against others. Gossip is toxic. Only speak with integrity & always say what you mean so that you can use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

“Being impeccable with your word is the correct use of your energy; it means to use your energy in the direction of truth and love for yourself.”

“You can speak. What other animal on the planet can speak? The word is the most powerful tool you have as a human; it is the tool of magic. But like a sword with two edges, your word can create the most beautiful dream, or your word can destroy everything around you. One edge is the misuse of the word, which creates a living hell.”

AGREEMENT TWO

Don’t take anything personally! Remember that NOTHING others do is because of you. What others say and do is only a projection of their own reality, a reflection of their own dream and the things they believe to be important and true. When your realize this, you will find yourself immune to the opinions and actions of others, and thus prevent needless suffering on your part or even conflict if you lash out when your feelings are hurt.

“There is a huge amount of freedom that comes to you when you take nothing personally.”

“Personal importance, or taking things personally, is the maximum expression of selfishness because we make the assumption that everything is about “me.” During the period of our education, or our domestication, we learn to take everything personally. We think we are responsible for everything. Me, me, me, always me! Nothing other people do is because of you. It is because of themselves. All people live in their own dream, in their own mind; they are in a completely different world from the one we live in. When we take something personally, we make the assumption that they know what is in our world, and we try to impose our world on their world.

AGREEMENT THREE

Don’t make assumptions! Always find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. This will avoid misunderstandings. Don't be afraid of direct conflict. When you choose to always communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. you can completely transform your life with just this one agreement.

“Making assumptions in our relationships is really asking for problems. Often we make the assumption that our partners know what we think and that we don’t have to say what we want. We assume they are going to do what we want, because they know us so well. If they don’t do what we assume they should do, we feel so hurt and say, “You should have known.”

“Very young children are not afraid to express what they feel. They are so loving that if they perceive love, they melt into love. They are not afraid to love at all. That is the description of a normal human being.”

“We assume that others think the way we think, feel the way we feel, judge the way we judge, and abuse the way we abuse. This is the biggest assumption that humans make. And this is why we have a fear of being ourselves around others.”

AGREEMENT FOUR

Always do your best. However, realize & accept that your best is going to change depending on the moment. For example, depending on if you are healthy or sick. But make the pledge to do your best under any circumstance for that moment and in this way you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.

“Say no when you want to say no, and yes when you want to say yes. You have the right to be you. You can only be you when you do your best. When you don’t do your best you are denying yourself the right to be you. That’s a seed that you should really nurture in your mind. You don’t need knowledge or great philosophical concepts. You don’t need the acceptance of others. You express your own divinity by being alive and by loving yourself and others. It is an expression of God to say, “Hey, I love you.”

Healing & Meditating With Binaural Beats

WHAT ARE BINAURAL BEATS?

Many ancient cultures were aware of how sound repetition could be used to train and stimulate our brains, and there are many historic examples of music being used as medicine & therapy, such as the Native Americans and Africans using singing and chanting for healing rituals. Amazingly, even some languages exhibit a connection between healing & music – such as traditional Chinese, where the character for medicine includes the character for music!

Today, modern science also shows us how binaural beats can produce an effect on the train like that of meditation. Binaural beats are sounds in which the right and left ears listen to two slightly different frequency tones, however they may perceive the tone as one (the conscious brain will not detect the difference). Researchers believe that these beats help trigger subtle changes in the brain depending on which frequency pattern they employ:

• Delta patterns (frequency between 0.1 & 4 Hz, associated with dreamless sleep)

• Theta patterns (between 4 & 8 Hz, associated with sleep in the rapid eye movement or REM phase, meditation, and creativity)

• Alpha pattern (between 8 & 13 Hz, encourage relaxation)

• Beta pattern (between 14 Hz and 100 Hz, promotes concentration & alertness)

HOW DO BINAURAL BEATS WORK?

Our brainwaves change in speed, depending based on what we’re experiencing in life. When we’re resting, our brain enters a slow Theta state. When we’re running errands or working, our brain enters a faster Beta state. We cannot naturally control of our brainwave states, but binaural beats can help brainwaves shift into optimal states.

As we mentioned above, binaural beats play one specific tone in one ear and a slightly different tone in the other, and the difference between them causes an audio phenomenon called Beating, which is designed to vibrate at the same speed as the desired brainwaves (for whichever purpose). Then, our brain tries to make up the difference in beating tones by taking the form of the desired brainwave state.

Potential benefits of listening to Binaural Beats include:

• stress relief

• anxiety relief

• increased focus

• improved concentration

• increased motivation

• more confidence

• deeper meditation

• improved mood

Some recommend that listening or meditating to binaural beats should be a regular part of your practice, for 15-30 minutes per day. Practitioners share testimonials such as

“My mind has become clearer and I feel more focused. These beautiful tools gave my meditation a depth and calm that I had not experienced before.”

“These binaural beats transport me to a mind bubble where all of my thoughts are sharp and have clarity.”

A Tribute To Maty Ezraty

Today we celebrate the life of yogini master teacher, Maty Ezraty, who left us way too soon. Maty made her transition to other realms this week. She left her body temple at the young age of 55 very unexpectedly. The teacher of teacher's left her yoga children. Maty was the teacher of many of today's most influencial yoga teachers. As the yoga world grieves with her departure, I am here today to honour and celebrate her life.

Maty is the founder of Yogaworks. Almost twenty years ago I walked into one of her classes in Los Angeles and soon after I started working at Yogaworks, where I taught classes, worked behind the desk, worked in management and participated in Yogaworks growth and expansion before moving to New Orleans. At Yogaworks I completed my 200 Hour and 300 Hour, as well as countless trainings. During my many years working at Yogaworks from my early twenties to thirties I matured not only as a yoga teacher, but also as a human - through the guidance and influence of mentors and teachers such as Maty Ezraty, Annie Carpenter and Lisa Walfort. I am lucky to have met such magnificent women in this life time. Maty's passing is a big reminder to all of us....

Cherish Each Moment. Every Moment Is So Special.

One of my last experiences with Maty, not long ago in Nicaragua, we went on a night hike to witness baby sea turtles hatch and make their way into the ocean. It was a true miracle to witness new life and nature's intelligence. Perhaps that was a sign for me so that today when I think of her and (this) life ending, I also see new beginnings as her soul takes the great journey and new adventures. Perhaps today is the day of new beginnings for us all. I am also deeply touched by the yoga community coming together all over the world in honor of Maty's life.

On this last trip I expressed my discomfort to Maty about yoga practice going from the traditional hour and a half, two hours practice to now the usual one hour. Her unexpected response to me was -

YOU CAN FIT A LOT AND

A VERY COMPLETE YOGA PRACTICE IN ONE HOUR.

The conversation went on to sequencing and creating a well rounded practice with whatever time you had. Her insights were brilliant. Not only it affected my on going classes, also my yoga teacher trainings, which I now teach How To Create An Effective One Hour Practice and the workshop I developed based on this conversation -

How To Create A Home Practice - I will be teaching this workshop at Love More Hot Yoga on Saturday, July 20th at 1PM.

On our plane ride back from Nicaragua she also said something that truly stuck with me about teacher trainings -

" IS NOT ABOUT THE 200 HOUR OR HOWEVER MANY HOURS! IS BETTER TO SPEND LESS HOURS WITH A SOLID GREAT TRAINING AND TEACHER THAN COUNTLESS HOURS WITH A NOT SO GOOD TRAINING OR TEACHER. DON'T GET SO CAUGHT UP WITH THE "HOURS" - FIND QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY."

- MATY EZRATY

I couldn't agree more! What a jewel of a person.

Maty's teachings and insights were beyond mastery and extremely influential in all I do. I am including here a print interview as we celebrate her life!

I hope you get inspired by Maty as much as I have!

Thank You Maty!

May we all carry her torch and continue to spread "good yoga" out there into the world!

Much much love,

Nathalie

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Back to Basics: Interview with Maty Ezraty
by Jill Greene

You’re offering an all-day intensive this year on “Making Your Practice Whole.” What does it mean to make your practice whole?
In today’s world, yoga is practiced a little bit more for physical reasons. Making your practice whole is about exploring the bigger picture: your attitudes, the way the mind works, what your intentions are. It means looking at yoga from a holistic perspective, less from a strictly physical point of view.

For a number of years, you have been practicing vipassana meditation in addition to yoga. Is that compatible with this idea of making your practice whole?
Yes. I think meditation is mandatory, if you are a serious seeker of spirituality. Asana will only take you so far. It’s so important to study your mind in other venues. Meditation is as good as it gets.

You have been teaching yoga for 25 years. How have you seen the teaching of yoga evolve in America over that time?
Yoga today is a little mixed up with fitness. Not that there’s anything wrong with fitness, but it doesn’t allow you to go deeper in understanding your inner dynamics, your self, your mind-space. If you have the music on, and everything’s about feeling good, looking good … it’s artificial.

Unfortunately, in the last decade, we’ve seen business people take over yoga schools. And they really don’t understand yoga—half of them don’t even practice it. We have so many teacher trainings taught by people who haven’t been doing yoga long enough. So we’re creating a new generation that’s doing yoga poses, but in a fitness manner. It’s diluting yoga. It’s a lot easier to sell, because when you’re required to observe your mind and look at your stuff, it’s harder!

I think a lot of people are being promised that they can become yoga teachers, but it’s really difficult to make a living teaching yoga today. Of course it depends on the individual and what they know … but it should definitely not be something that you do lightly. I would never advise someone to give up a career to teach yoga, because most teachers today are struggling. Sometimes what you love to do is not necessarily what you should do for a living.

If you could give one piece of advice to a new teacher today, what would it be?
Stick to why you decided to do yoga in the first place, and teach from there. I did not seek yoga for a profession, when I started studying. I came for a deeper, soul searching. That’s the place to teach yoga from.

When you’re a new teacher, you’re told you need a 200-hour certificate to teach anywhere. What does that have to do with anything? You can do 200 hours of good training or 200 hours of no training. Some people can retain an enormous amount in 200 hours, and other people can’t. So we have this arbitrary number of hours. We’ve got a problem.

In the old days, you had to get permission to take the Yoga Works teacher training. Somebody watched you practice. The first day of teacher training, I could teach shoulder stand. Everybody knew the fundamentals. They knew that in trikonasana the leg turns out, and the knee faces the second toe. I have students now who have never heard that before.

But it’s not the students’ fault! I don’t even think it’s the teacher’s fault. It’s the owners and the companies that are pushing numbers, pushing fitness, pushing Twitter, pushing websites … and they’re overlooking good teachers.

It’s also the consumer. It’s really a society problem, and it’s going to take courageous people to do things in a different way.

What can we do to change things?
Practitioners need to be educated and to buy the right workshops, put their money in classes and in trainings that offer something else. Request them: “I want classes with less music, I want more restorative yoga, I want more pranayama.”

And as an owner, you really have to walk that line in a smart way. Because you have to bring people along. It takes experience. It’s totally doable, but everyone’s just going too fast.

This practice takes time. You need at least 7 years before you’re pretty good. You should have at least 10-15 years under your belt before you teach and train people. You’ve got to be really strong in your own understanding. Otherwise you just give in to the students, because it’s too hard.

My best students and my best teachers assisted me for years. And came to class, over and over again, for years. There’s nothing wrong with a 200-hour training, if you then have somewhere to go and apprentice, under someone who’s really got it. That’ll work.

Do you see any glimmers of hope?
The last time I taught at a yoga festival, I had a teachers’ class. It was a really large class, 120 students, and I did basics. I walked out of that class high as a kite. These teachers wanted to learn, they were hungry, and they were getting it. It was exciting. There was no music, and their eyes were wide open and they wanted the information.

So yes, I have hope. But it’s going to take a community effort.

And our own self study – is that a part of this?
Absolutely. That’s why I said that meditation is really critical. Because at some point, the asana is just not going to take you that far in. It can’t—it was never meant to. It’s only a pillar, a limb, a part of the process. It’s really just making you healthier so that you can do the deeper work.

I think many of us aspire to have an individual practice as long and fruitful as yours. What advice do you have for us as we look to the future?
What you do in your 20s, you’re not going to be able to do in your 50s. The more you understand that from the beginning, and the more you develop a really caring practice, the more you will appreciate the basics. So when those more fancy poses go away, you’ll have less suffering. You will see the benefits of the simplicity of it all.

The way that our lives are structured today, we put our old people in homes and we may not live next to our families, so we grow up without seeing that aging process up close. It’s not so real for us. We think that we’re always going to be like we are today, but things change. So it’s about the simple things: just lying down on the ground, feeling the earth and realizing how precious that is. How many people in the world never walk barefoot, never lie down on a flat floor and just close their eyes and breathe?

It’s going to come to that for each and every one of us, at some point. Standing on your head? Intense arm balances? Eventually it just doesn’t work anymore. But if those expectations are not there, and the simplicity is applied, and savored, then it’s a wonderful thing.

At the end of the day, you have to know this practice, personally, for yourself, without the teacher. It’s got to get to that.

All About Distance Healing

WHAT IS DISTANCE HEALING?



Distance healing is used to describe any kind of energy that is directed or sent across space and time which has a healing effect on the recipient. This is different from in-person healing in that the healer & recipient do not need to be close together in distance in order for the healing to take effect. Distance healing can be done over the phone, for example, or at a special time set aside by healer & energy receiver.

In energy healing and holistic medicine therapies, the healer is working with the physical, emotional and mental aspects of the client by accessing their subtle and energy body. This subtle energy body can be accessed from anywhere, anytime.

The subtle body is what, we yogis, access each day when we practice.

It includes the chakras, meridians, nadis, the koshas and evergy fields such as aura.

HOW DOES DISTANCE HEALING WORK?

It can be challenging at first to understand how distance healing works due to our perceptions of physical reality – or time & space. It is most easy for us to perceive space as separating physical objects by distance, and that time moves in a linear, forward direction. However, many holistic healers say that time is an “illusion”. When we open up our perceptions of how energy moves across our universe we open ourselves up to more ability to experience healing and manifest change.

When energy healers conduct distance healings they move outside of our perception of space time. There are several techniques for doing this but they mostly center arround the healer navigating “space-time” by focusing their awareness from a state of altered perception where they can immediately “transmit” healing energy to the client.

Have you every thought of someone who lives far and that person called you that same day? That is essencially the same principles of distant healing.

SCIENTIFIC UNDERPINNINGS

Holistic healers & shamans have practiced distance healing for milennia that may not be explainable by modern science. However, recent advancements in the realm of quantum physics align & support the scientific underpinnings for distance healing. Quantum physics shows that in theory, time is fluid and flows both forwards and backwards simultaneously. There is no past and no future, only the present moment. This concept is based on “quantum entanglement” where scientists showed that two photons created by dividing a single photon into two “twins” act and behave as if they are still one and the same, or as if they had never been separated. Einstein famously called this phenomenon “spooky action at a distance”. In other words, if our whole universe was created from and made of the same matter then we’re never truly separated, which is how distance healing can work.

Even in modern medicine, we are not sure how prescription drugs work. We have a rough model, but it is not necessarily the truth. Not all models that we use to make sense of our world are sufficient, and we should not completely stop using them, but opening ourselves up to healing models that we don’t fully yet understand can be both fun & highly beneficial!

I have been practicing distance healing now for a few years, working on individuals across the Globe, Skype or Zoom or telefone and I have countless successful stories and have witness people’s lives change – as much through teaching yoga, as through energy healing.

I feel honored to hold space for transformation.