I've had this blog for over 4 years now, and it's taken me that long to tackle this month's experiment. Some of my readers may not even know that my blog started as a series of one-month lifestyle challenges. Each month I dabbled in a new goal. These experiments give me a reason to research and experience first-hand different ways of living. Here's the summary:
Month One: Vegetarianism
Month Two: Shopping-Free
Month Three: Caffeine-Free
Month Four: No High Heels
Month Five: Gluten-free
Month Six: Pants-Free
Month Seven: Cell phone-Free
Month Eight: Blog-Free
Month Nine: All Things Ayurveda
Month Ten: Chi Running
Month Eleven: Finding Free
And now finally, Month Twelve: Alcohol Free. I'm not sure why it took me this long to be willing to give up alcohol for 30 days. It just always seemed like the wrong time. I always have a wedding coming up, a holiday coming up, a birthday coming up, whatever. These excuses have now taken the back seat because I recently started taking an anti-inflammatory for my knee that is really tough on the liver and kidneys. Now I finally have a good reason to not drink. Combining alcohol with this medication would be dangerous for my body and overall health. I have a feeling that some interesting insights will come up this month. Bring it on!
Friday, May 3, 2013
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Service vs. Ambition
Ok, let me just say it straight. This interview blew my mind. I love Marie Forleo and Marianne Williamson. To put them together is a match made in heaven. I want to be friends with them, sip tea and learn, learn, learn. Since that girl-crush fantasy probably won't happen today, I was equally excited to listen to this interview about Marianne's new book, The Law of Divine Compensation.
The part that struck me most was the discussion about service vs. ambition. As I am laying the foundation for my Ayurveda Health Coach practice, it's easy for me to focus on the business side of things. I really want to keep bringing my bottom line back to service and contribution. If I make money, great. My number one objective is to help people live healthy and happy lives. That's what I want. That's what I choose to focus on. As Marianne says, "The Universe is an unlimited opportunity machine." I choose to let that energy run my business and surprise me with all kinds of new experiences, people and chances to grow. Universe, show me what you've got!
The part that struck me most was the discussion about service vs. ambition. As I am laying the foundation for my Ayurveda Health Coach practice, it's easy for me to focus on the business side of things. I really want to keep bringing my bottom line back to service and contribution. If I make money, great. My number one objective is to help people live healthy and happy lives. That's what I want. That's what I choose to focus on. As Marianne says, "The Universe is an unlimited opportunity machine." I choose to let that energy run my business and surprise me with all kinds of new experiences, people and chances to grow. Universe, show me what you've got!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
HUGE NEWS!
Sometimes faith is all the we really have. Faith that this crazy idea will work out. Faith that my efforts and actions are leading me somewhere good. Faith that this excitement, passion, energy...this feeling IS the point. This feeling IS my ultimate goal. Achieving my goal is not really the goal. Feeling stoked and motivated and inspired on the way to a goal is the best part.
Opportunities keep plopping into my lap and pointing me in the right direction. Starting May 1st, I will be a member of the Glow Team at Glow Natural Health Center in Madison Valley. We offer acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, Naturopathic medicine, psychotherapy and now AYURVEDA! I will be seeing clients from 8am-12pm on Saturdays and 6:30-8:30pm on Wednesdays.
The lease is being looked over, website profile being revised, insurance paperwork being shuffled, promotion events in the works...I just can't keep the secret any longer. This is truly a dream come true. I am so inspired to guide my clients to happier, more joyous lives through nutrition, herbs, yoga, meditation, pranayama and lifestyle routines. I am the Ayurveda Health Coach, and I'm ready to serve.
Opportunities keep plopping into my lap and pointing me in the right direction. Starting May 1st, I will be a member of the Glow Team at Glow Natural Health Center in Madison Valley. We offer acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, Naturopathic medicine, psychotherapy and now AYURVEDA! I will be seeing clients from 8am-12pm on Saturdays and 6:30-8:30pm on Wednesdays.
The lease is being looked over, website profile being revised, insurance paperwork being shuffled, promotion events in the works...I just can't keep the secret any longer. This is truly a dream come true. I am so inspired to guide my clients to happier, more joyous lives through nutrition, herbs, yoga, meditation, pranayama and lifestyle routines. I am the Ayurveda Health Coach, and I'm ready to serve.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Reducing inflammation through Ayurveda
I started this AWC program for selfish reasons... to help myself be healthy. My final research paper came out of the same inclination. For the last two months, I've been struggling with inflammation in my right knee. Ironically, it started after sitting on the floor for 2 days during my last intense Ayurveda class. The same weekend I had a strong reaction to some nasal drops administered during our Panchakarma class. This whole experience has been really humbling as I see the limits and of my body and acknowledge my predisposition for joint issues. After x-rays, blood tests, an MRI and countless doctors appointments, I'm now starting physical therapy once a week to help build strenth to support my knees. When I look for the gift or the assignment in all of this, I can see that my health issues will help me be a more compassionate and understanding counselor. Perhaps a little personal struggle helps me better relate to others. It definitely has me researching and seeking out new resources to guide my healing.
Here are a few things I've learned about inflammation and auto-immune diseases:
1. My body sometimes overreacts to perceived threats and attacks healthy tissue. Anything that can calm the body down (REST, massage, aromatherapy, chanting, pranayama) can reduce inflammation.
2. An anti-inflammatory diet is full of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
3. Sugar, gluten and alcohol can cause more inflammation.
4. Spices and herbs like garlic, tumeric and ginger have huge healing benefits.
5. My mind is my strongest healing tool and ally. I can ignite my own "placebo effect" by trusting my body's healing power and wisdom. Tapping into my natural balancing capacities will save my knee.
6. Stress causes inflammation. This research paper showed me that there is a HUGE body of knowledge and research about the benefits of yoga, meditation, pranayama and herbs.
As I move forward with Ayurveda, I learn more tricks and tips that help me stay on track and keep my body thriving. Living happy and shaking off stress seem to be the best remedy.
For more information about inflammation, check out: http://kriscarr.com/blog/5-tips-to-reduce-inflammation/
Here are a few things I've learned about inflammation and auto-immune diseases:
1. My body sometimes overreacts to perceived threats and attacks healthy tissue. Anything that can calm the body down (REST, massage, aromatherapy, chanting, pranayama) can reduce inflammation.
2. An anti-inflammatory diet is full of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.
4. Spices and herbs like garlic, tumeric and ginger have huge healing benefits.
5. My mind is my strongest healing tool and ally. I can ignite my own "placebo effect" by trusting my body's healing power and wisdom. Tapping into my natural balancing capacities will save my knee.
6. Stress causes inflammation. This research paper showed me that there is a HUGE body of knowledge and research about the benefits of yoga, meditation, pranayama and herbs.
As I move forward with Ayurveda, I learn more tricks and tips that help me stay on track and keep my body thriving. Living happy and shaking off stress seem to be the best remedy.
For more information about inflammation, check out: http://kriscarr.com/blog/5-tips-to-reduce-inflammation/
Monday, March 25, 2013
Graduation Day
I am an Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor. Graduation ended just a few hours ago, and I am still floating on Cloud Nine. It was such an exciting and intense weekend as we practicing consulting with real Rogis. The word "Rogi" in Ayurveda means client, patient and friend all in one. It honors the unique relationship we have as teachers, coaches, counselors. It was so rewarding to brainstorm with a team ways to create balance in these people to fit their unique needs and constitutions.
Friends and family joined us today as Teri gave us our certificates and spoke about each student. It was such a personal and special way to end this experience.
I know that my journey with Ayurveda is still just beginning, and I feel lucky to have this network of passionate teachers and colleagues. Let the adventure continue!
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Creating Space
It's official. I share space with another human being. After living alone for 7 years, I took the jump into cohabitation with my boyfriend. It has definitely been a transition for me to share my bed, make so many decisions together and consider another person's schedule. After 3 weeks living together, I can honestly say I'm happier now than I've ever been.
The number one reason why it's working is because we've created some space. Before we moved in, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to find a comfortable place to meditate and practice yoga in our one bedroom apartment. To which he responded, "You can meditate anywhere your butt hits the ground." The funny thing is that he was right. The even better thing is that I claimed a little area of the living room for my alter. By placing my vision board and a candle on top of my grandma's old trunk, I immediately created the sacred space I craved. We found an incredible picture of the Buddha and hung it above the trunk. By not overcrowding our space with excess furniture, I carved out the perfect strip for my yoga mat in between the dining room and living room. This little area is my favorite part of our new home. I wake up early just to relish some time to myself in front of my alter with my mat, journal, books and music.
After a few quiet minutes of meditating and breathing, I'm prepared to re-engage with the world. I take that calm stillness with me. I've noticed that it makes me less reactive, less snippy and just overall more satisfied with life. I know that everyone in my life benefits from this yoga and meditation practice. It helps me bring my best loving, sweet self to any situation.
The number one reason why it's working is because we've created some space. Before we moved in, I was worried that I wouldn't be able to find a comfortable place to meditate and practice yoga in our one bedroom apartment. To which he responded, "You can meditate anywhere your butt hits the ground." The funny thing is that he was right. The even better thing is that I claimed a little area of the living room for my alter. By placing my vision board and a candle on top of my grandma's old trunk, I immediately created the sacred space I craved. We found an incredible picture of the Buddha and hung it above the trunk. By not overcrowding our space with excess furniture, I carved out the perfect strip for my yoga mat in between the dining room and living room. This little area is my favorite part of our new home. I wake up early just to relish some time to myself in front of my alter with my mat, journal, books and music.
After a few quiet minutes of meditating and breathing, I'm prepared to re-engage with the world. I take that calm stillness with me. I've noticed that it makes me less reactive, less snippy and just overall more satisfied with life. I know that everyone in my life benefits from this yoga and meditation practice. It helps me bring my best loving, sweet self to any situation.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Mix it up to beat the winter blahs
Yesterday I was hit with the winter blues. The days are so short right now that it's dark when I go to work, and it's dark when I get home. It's easy to feel depressed when each day is cut short, and it seems like there's not enough light to live your life.
So I decided to change it up and give my day a blast of energy. I went for a run with my dog in the dark drizzle anyway. It felt so good to get sweaty underneath my 4 layers even though it's freezing outside. Little changes go a long way to enhance mood and vitality. This morning I did yoga in a different place in the house- by the fireplace. My body is craving heat and warmth. My next stop... my local sauna. It's common to get physically stiff and emotionally stuck during the holidays when we naturally move less, eat more and stress is at an all time high. Here are some tips to help you boost happiness and energy during this crazy season:
1. Amp up your self-love. We can only give our best to others when we have tended to ourselves first. Carve out a little time for a luxurious bath, a yoga class or a massage. You're worth it!
2. Breathe. When we're stressed, we have a tendency to hold our breath, clench our shoulders and brace for impact. Instead roll your shoulders back and take 3 slow breaths, extending the exhale. Imagine that you can clean and clear your mind with each breath.
3. Exercise. This is the number one way to beat depression during the dark months. Whether it's a walk outside, yoga class, spin class or even a solo dance party at home, just getting your heart rate up with do wonders for your mood, focus and confidence.
4. Meditate. When there is no light outside, it's the best time to tap into the light within you. Take 5-15 minutes to close your eyes, breathe and visualize. Imagine a light inside your heart that expands with each breath. Let it grow and surround you like a warm halo. Feel insolated and protected by your own inner light. Sit in this light as you breathe and feel comforted and connected.
Use these tips to beat to winter blahs. They will ensure a happy and calm you in the New Year!
So I decided to change it up and give my day a blast of energy. I went for a run with my dog in the dark drizzle anyway. It felt so good to get sweaty underneath my 4 layers even though it's freezing outside. Little changes go a long way to enhance mood and vitality. This morning I did yoga in a different place in the house- by the fireplace. My body is craving heat and warmth. My next stop... my local sauna. It's common to get physically stiff and emotionally stuck during the holidays when we naturally move less, eat more and stress is at an all time high. Here are some tips to help you boost happiness and energy during this crazy season:
1. Amp up your self-love. We can only give our best to others when we have tended to ourselves first. Carve out a little time for a luxurious bath, a yoga class or a massage. You're worth it!
2. Breathe. When we're stressed, we have a tendency to hold our breath, clench our shoulders and brace for impact. Instead roll your shoulders back and take 3 slow breaths, extending the exhale. Imagine that you can clean and clear your mind with each breath.
3. Exercise. This is the number one way to beat depression during the dark months. Whether it's a walk outside, yoga class, spin class or even a solo dance party at home, just getting your heart rate up with do wonders for your mood, focus and confidence.
4. Meditate. When there is no light outside, it's the best time to tap into the light within you. Take 5-15 minutes to close your eyes, breathe and visualize. Imagine a light inside your heart that expands with each breath. Let it grow and surround you like a warm halo. Feel insolated and protected by your own inner light. Sit in this light as you breathe and feel comforted and connected.
Use these tips to beat to winter blahs. They will ensure a happy and calm you in the New Year!
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