Imagine for a second living your entire life without a concept that you are anything more than just your body. You spend every year working to lose the extra fifteen pounds around the middle, you obsess on the dress size, you might try exercising but realize it can be challenging, you spend the majority of your adult life defining what you do, you gather accolades and awards and letters behind your name, you seek people to validate your existence and then one day, usually when life becomes gravely challenging, you realize that you are so much more than the what that you have aimed for decades to become.
What if I could encourage you to see that you are so much more than the what that you have been told you are, or what you have strived to achieve? What if I could invite you into a place where you see that much more than what meets the outer eye.
Let’s back up. Think about this:
What is the most important part of a house? What is the most important part of a tree?
Without the foundation and the roots, we may never see the beautiful windows and stunning branches and leaves. So if your body is the windows and branches and you have neglected the foundation or the roots, what will happen when life gets hard? (It will get hard, you know that).
Will your walls cave in? Will you blow over in a “storm”?
What are the parts of you that hold up the windows and branches?
What sustainsyou? What supports you?
What are the aspects of you that is your foundation or your roots?
I like to think of these as values or principles in which we live our physical life as. The branches that we become are all based on the root system that feeds, stabilizes and ensures we are our best self.
For me, my root system consists of the following four main roots (or four main foundation walls):
gratitude: the minute I step away from recognizing all that I have in my life and start complaining I have gotten lost and the root rot begins
strength: opting for the easy way out or choosing to give up is a sure sign that I will blow over the second life gets hard
positivity: there is nothing like a dose of negativity to squelch your growth. Period. If it isn’t nice or hopeful then don’t say it.
responsibility: doing what I say I will do and keeping myself accountable has served me so well both personally and professionally. If I walk away from that, I am done.
Ask yourself these questions and sit with yourself. Peel away all the “what’” that makes you up—man, woman, mother, father, heavy, thin, your job title, your credentials, and your outer form.
Now, ask yourself whoam I? What is the essence of me? How do I show up in the world? You might find that the values/roots that make up your beautiful tree are things like love, purpose, courage, family, service, honesty, respect, accountability, knowledge, faith, and many more.
Do this important work now because soon we will take it a little further and look at how our actions, thoughts and words are aligning with those identified values.
“As I began to love myself, I found that anguish and emotional suffering were only warning signs that I was living against my own truth.”
Charlie Chaplin
Self-love is the foundation and basis for all the love that flows from our hearts to others.
For many years I was a seeker of love outside of myself. In some ways we all are—we want validation and to be seen—that is normal human behavior. My trouble came when in the truthful and quiet moments with myself, I really didn’t like who I was, and actually loving myself was not even in the ball park.
Then I woke up.
I realized that my kids needed a healthy mom. They needed someone who demonstrated self love. They required a mom who was no longer angry but instead developed an acceptance for life’s hard things and took them as lessons to grow.
I also became radically aware of self care. For decades I thought self care was selfish and totally for the elite. Wow, right? I came to realize that the only way I was to find pure unconditional love was to begin by loving myself unconditionally. You attract what you are.
Today I actually coach women (and men) on the power of a deliberate self care routine to help become the very best version of yourself. It’s not all about bubble baths, although those those do help tremendously.
Self love is now one of my deepest values.
It is one of the four main “roots” or “walls” that hold me up during storms. Without it, I’d crumble.
I choose self love daily by walking, working out, spending time in my garden, playing on a yoga mat, sipping nice vodka, daily gratitude, enjoying delicious coffee and of course, lavish bubble baths. One way that I combat living with chronic pain is to fight back against it with so much self love and self care through movement that my mind simply cannot focus on the pain long, because I am instead experiencing the joy of being alive.
I can’t believe that I once told myself that self love was selfish. After two decades of self love it has now become a part of everyday living. I know that without this radical practice of self love I would not be able to handle life’s challenges and I would not be able to give so much love. Truly by filling up myself with love daily, I am able to give more to others.
Don’t wait for a health crisis or a divorce to learn you are worthy.
Love yourself radically and fiercely now.
Trust me, mastering the art of self love is the best gift you’ll ever give yourself. You deserve it.
Reach out to me for a free wellness consult and learn how YOU can change your mindset!
With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.
I hope that you are doing well and are finding ways to bring joy into your everyday life. This time of year is always a favorite as temperatures (hopefully) cool down a bit and we can soak in the bounty of goodness. For me, the garden is always evidence of the great things that have been happening.
This is also my favorite month to teach yoga. Every year that I share the theme for this month, I am amazed at what I learn from others. Keep reading to learn more about what foundation means to me and how I apply this concept in my life.
A huge aspect to learning about what your unique foundation is includes learning about the principles in which we live, or the values that we hold dear, and how they sustain us during challenging times. I look forward to sharing more about this throughout the month, and be sure to to learn what my ten principlesare for living a wholesome life full of solid values. When we can identify our principles we can more easily handle whatever life throws our way, much the way a home’s foundation keeps the walls and windows in tact.
As we come into September it is a good time to remember that The Autumn Equinox is a time of letting go and also harvesting the good that is abundant in our lives and allowing the stalks and leaves to fall aside and go back to the Earth. With this beautiful and colorful season emerging it is our time to loosen our grip on the focus of growth and prepare to move into a more dormant season. This is also a great time to look at the cycles of life; seasons, months, breath, and even life.
The paradox of understanding cycles exists everywhere and yet the simplest observation is the breath; to inhale you must also exhale. We know that with each ending there is a beginning, in whatever shape that takes—self awareness, growth, wisdom, letting go, etc. We see this so easily in the changing of leaves–the amazing color that emerges following a season of bounty, and then the ease in which the leaf lets go. Watch as leaves effortlessly fall to the ground to be taken into the loving arms of Mother Earth for the new growth that waits for the next season.
I encourage you to go outside. Take a breath. Take time to look at letting go of what no longer serves you. Thank it for its time in your life as the teacher it is and then release it.
Finally, welcome the harvest that is within and always look for opportunities to be grateful. I know for myself, the practice of gratitude has lead me into a life of awareness that has enhanced my life everyday. Let the practice of acknowledging gratitude for all that you have become your foundation as you move into this next season.
Life is really good, friends.
Blessings,
Stacie
Yoga
Studio Classes
Monday Evening Yoga
Monday evening sessions at 515pm are a great way to kick off your week in the comfort of my cozy studio. Spaces are limited so sign up for which dates you can attend. (No class Monday September 4th). Cost: $20
Join me for a special Essential Yoga! Wednesday September 27tht at 5:30pm in my studio. This class will explore the energies of the Earth to ground us in both aroma, sound and movement. Cost: $25 Space is limited and includes essential oil blend and crystal.
Are you wanting to have access to a yoga or pilates practice that fits into your busy schedule? I offer chair yoga, sensation and intuition based guided gentle yoga, pilates and meditation without having to log in to a specific class time. All of my classes are offered at a donation. You can find ALL of my videos (including the 30 days of yoga series!) on my YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to get notified when I upload a new Yoga practice or mindfulness talk!
Essential Yoga–Foundation
If you missed the Essential Yoga in person, you can now get it online! Just click on the link below and you’ll have access to the online class. Donations are appreciated.
Are you a current yoga teacher? I am also offering a yoga teacher mentoring program to help yoga teachers learn how to modify and teach to those with different abilities. Check out this link below or reach out to me!
Many of you know that I use and rely on essential oils to maintain the health of my mind, body, and spirit. I use them throughout my home from cleaning, for pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. One of my favorite things is helping others get started using natural remedies and plant medicine.
You will also get an awesome welcome package from me, access to my VIP community group, education and mentoring and much more. It is easy to get started! I am also happy to chat personally with you to find the perfect options for your needs.
I offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit. Together we will create a personalized plan. Schedule yours today!
New customers can continue to customize their own enrollment kit with no membership fee. If you aren’t sure where to start, I recommend making an appointment with me to figure it out! We can do this over coffee or on the phone! You can also choose pre-selected bundles that are great for most family needs, office or agency.
This months carefully curated blend is all about the Earth. This is such a great blend for staying calm and grounded. Really, one of my favorites.
This earthy forest blend will take into the depths of stillness so that you can ask yourself some of those important and soul revealing questions. If you are curious to learn more about this, check out this blog post.…and in the meantime, grab one of these woodsy smells and get connected.
Did you know you can use essential oils to add flavor and health benefits to your recipes?? Fall is such a great season for warm, inviting and soul-feeding foods. Check out some of my favorites below.
I love the smell of fall and these diffuser blends will not just smell great, but your family will benefit from the healthy supports essential oils add when used aromatically.
Life Lessons from an Autumn Leaf
We know change is coming, so we embrace its beauty for all the world to see. It’s exciting when my friends and I all begin to turn colors. I can imagine its much like when humans get their hair done or change their style of clothing. You just feel brand new, hot, beautiful–a sight to be seen, for sure. When most of us receive our new colors, and a few begin to fall, the humans come out by the droves. I’ve watched so many walking hand-in-hand. I’ve heard many intimate conversations and often witness family portraits. Children ooh and ah about the wonder of our change, and the whole world seems to take a second glance to admire our new look.
However, as the cold winds begin to blow, we know we must hold on tight to our branches until it’s our time to fall. It’s interesting because none of us want to drop. We just want to stay in our spot, high above the ground and admire the magnificent atmosphere fall brings.
1. Radiate Beauty. Autumn brings an abundance of fall colors and textures. The reds, oranges, yellows, golds and rust tones of autumn delight the senses in landscapes and rich sunsets, inspiring poets and visual artists. Take the time to radiate your own beauty and creativity to the world.
2. Connect with Your Shadow. After the long, bright sunlit days of summer, autumn brings earlier sunsets and longer shadows. It’s an ideal time for thoughtful introspection and shining the light of awareness on our own shadow parts.
3. Let Go. Trees willingly and naturally shed their leaves after putting on a radiant fall show of colors. Is there anything in your life that’s ready to be released? Enjoy the brilliance of all that has ripened and come to fruition, but be willing to let go; it will pave the way for new beginnings.
4. Save for Lean Times. Even as birds and woodland creatures are enjoying the abundance of fall, they are also storing away portions of their autumn harvest and preparing for leaner times. Enjoy the blessings of the season, but remember to plan for the future.
5. Find Balance. In a world of duality, balance is key. The autumn equinox signals equal amounts of night and day, serving as a reminder to find balance in our own lives.
Autumn is a study in contrasts, and the result is a rich, multi-sensory experience. Apply these five lessons from autumn in your own life, and drink in the bounty of this inspiring time of year.
About Stacie
Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.
With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is an E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.
Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes.
In addition to teaching classes at a variety of local centers and health clubs, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.
Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things…. then better yourself.
It’s been a little quiet on here since I have been swamped with teaching, gardening, and I also completed a 30 days of yoga series this month.
We are headed into the final quarter of the year and I find it’s a good time to reflect on your beginning of the year visions and see how they have evolved and what I can do in the final stretch to reach them.
I set out the year with a quest to be more vulnerable. Part of me starting an online yoga teacher forum group was to open my self up to not only questions and connection, but also to open myself up to criticism and accountability. My teaching style in assisted living settings, may be much different than what one might think of when we think of adaptive Yoga.
Just this week alone some of the time I spent in assisted living was holding hands with a lonely 92-year-old woman, and helping her take her hands down to her toes for a stretch. I also rubbed the feet of a 57-year-old man with a terminal disease.
Is that yoga? I believe with 100% certainty that it is.
This year I also opened to myself up to finding someone to partner with me and shadow me to learn how to apply the principles of yoga, without such a strong focus on asana, to those unique settings. As I wait for that person to arrive in my life, I continue to serve and love each day doing it.
What will you do in these final few months of 2023 to come closer to your vision?
It’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It’s what we do consistently.
Anthony Robbins
I say all the time in my classes that Yoga is how we show up in life. It’s taking the tools we access in a physical practice—steadiness, concentration, presence, acceptance, surrender, courage—and applying them to life.
At the beginning of August I started a program to help me get back on my Yoga mat (or chair) consistently. To be honest, I was dreading it. The commitment that I made felt overwhelming and more than I could handle. I was so stressed about the details of recording the videos, when I would carve out the time, would it be good, what would I have to give up to make the time, etc.
Surprise surprise it has been one of the best months of my life. I crave the time to go out and move my body. Just 15-20 minutes a day and I am feeling more grounded, more aware and my body feels good.
The practice of consistency and showing up in your life with a commitment to be the best version of yourself you can is where the magic is.
I believe 100% that every aspect of our life will be influenced by being consistent. Our friendships, intimate relationships, work place connections, and our presence is the world itself will be effected in a positive way when we consistently show up for ourselves and others.
Consistently showing up.
Something magical happened yesterday in my work world that bleeds into this commitment of consistency. I FINALLY broke the code at a house I’ve been going to for TWO years with zero interest from the residents, minus one guy whose feet I rubbed consistently for two years until he passed away.
Every two weeks for two years I would knock on the door and ask the residents if they wanted to hang out with me. Saying the words “yoga practice” is far too intimidating because the image comes up in most people that it requires being on the floor like a pretzel. I have found just getting them to sit down with me is step one.
Today I unlocked the code of their resistance.
I had talked many times before to this guy but usually just asked how he was and if he wanted to try yoga. Always a no. He said he preferred to walk. I often thought to myself “me too, dude”. Nevertheless, I offered.
Today I asked about what I knew was HIS passion. I asked him which foot goes on the back of the surf board. He grew up surfing in the summer and snowboarding in the winter.
That is all it took— meeting him at HIS INTEREST. The next 45 minutes three other residents joined (one young young YOUNG man who is new) and a man who has refused to even speak to me for two years.
Today I broke the walls. They all participated and I was so happy for them.
Consistency.
Showing up week after week even if they say no builds SO much trust. Trust that many of them desperately need. One student told me recently that the reason he comes to Yoga is because I am one of the only people in his world that do what they say they will.
Showing up in our own lives and practice takes consistency but the benefit is so remarkable. Whether you’re committed to your health, your business, your family or others the consistency is what will be the game changer.
Believe me, they are watching and you never know who you are inspiring.
Vulnerability is defined as uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure.” It’s that unstable feeling we get when we step out of our comfort zone or do something that forces us to loosen control.
Brene Brown
When I began 2023 like every other year for the last nearly two decades, I chose a word as a theme or guiding direction that I wanted to bring into my life. It never fails that the word I choose for the year is perfectly suited for the path I take that year. Some years have been incredibly hard, like the year I chose the word peace. That was one of the most challenging years of my life. Go figure. I guess Spirit was asking me to find peace while enduring chaos.
Since we are nearly 3/4 the year through this year I thought I’d spend some time this afternoon thinking about where vulnerability has showed up in my journey this year. I chose the word vulnerability because I wanted to expose myself a bit more, let go of the controlled emotions and often staying in the comfort zone of life. I have a pretty ideal career and my life feels very well rounded and balanced, so rocking the boat a bit initially felt really daunting, but I knew I needed a nudge in the direction of being a little more open. My favorite teacher Brene Brown defines vulnerability as uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure. Oh boy. The big question is why if my life is going nearly perfect would I want to invite those three things in?
So far this year I have had the following experiences that required vulnerability:
I opted out of a needed hip replacement and had to advocate for my health despite the encouragement of doctors and family. I had to tap into my inner truth and openly admit that I was terrified and the uncertainty was too great. Admitting the emotion fear is not something I do easily or often. This was huge for me to openly expose an emotion.
Once the hip surgery was put on hold, I stepped into uncertainty by going forward with a knee surgery that was intended to bring some pain relief and hopefully stabilize the hip. Turns out the knee scope was brutal and required me to ask for much needed help and be willing to receive it. Not easy for me.
In early spring I did something wild and totally outside my comfort zone. I bought a Jeep that I had been working towards for many years. May seem like a no big deal for some , but for this frugal girl it was a huge deal.
The risk came when one day I emailed an agency about the adaptive yoga I have been offering in assisted living setting for years. I didn’t need the extra contract but as an entrepreneur you never become passive or assume the contracts you have will always want you. The risk turned into a surprisingly instant contract, but it meant I would give up my beloved Fridays off to add another commute day. I wrestled with it for a weekend and decided to give it a try. My mindset was if I felt overwhelmed I would simple be brave and say that it was more than I could handle. Also, something I don’t do easily. Just three weeks into the month, I got asked to add 16 more homes with this new agency, which took my monthly number up to 46 assisted living group homes a month. Gulp. I said yes.
With all the new contracts, I knew right away I would need to actively seek to mentor other yoga teachers. This meant stepping out of the shadows and exposing myself online as a teacher who thinks outside of the Western view of yoga and be actively open with my opinion and be a tad more outspoken than I tend to be when it comes to yoga. I created an online forum that I lead to educate other yoga teachers on the method I have carefully designed for adults with neurological conditions and other disabilities and be extremely exposed when it comes to my confidence. Hiding in the shadows of my work has been comfortable.
Once the knee healed and I was back to my normal activity, my body decided that my foot needed to fail me and I am now dealing with an extremely inflamed and severely arthritic foot. Again, I am faced with dealing with pain while running a business and a very full life. This means asking for help, taking life a little easier when I can and giving my body so much grace.
One day in July I got a hair brained idea to teach a virtual 30 days of yoga series, beginning August 1. That meant I needed to get myself on a yoga mat everyday and commit to showing up for myself and others. As August 1st approached I was feeling more and more pressure, but it has actually turned out to be amazing. The messages I receive on a daily basis from new students and long time students has been so fulfilling. Plus, getting on my yoga mat (or a chair) everyday has been so great. What I initially felt to be so much added stress has actually turned into so much goodness.
The year is not over and I hope that I continue to grow into my quest to be more vulnerable. I am open to allowing myself to feel more emotions and to living with uncertainty. I have learned that each day is a chance to be present in love, laugh a little more and appreciate the emotions that arise. There are moments every day that ask me to open myself up a tiny bit more to others and to life.
What’s your word of the year? Have you done a check in?
“Nothing brings to life again a forgotten memory like fragrance.“
– C Poindexter.
Did you know that you can use aromatherapy to improve your mood and remind you of memories??
Scent plays a huge role in how we think and feel, AND triggers memories. Our olfactory system (sense of smell) has a direct connection to the part of the brain (the amygdala) which acts as our emotional processing center and a direct link to memories. Don’t we all have a grandmother or aunt who had a certain “smell” that when we smell it we transport in time? This is why when you smell certain things you may experience a particular memory. Pretty interesting, right?
My little granddaughter Sawyer recently took home a box of crystals from my house and exclaimed to her daddy the other day “oh no, these don’t smell like maymay anymore”. I’ve been wearing the same blend of oils every time I am around her since the day she was born. Love that she associates my “smell” already. I have my grandmothers old medicine cabinet in my home and when I open it I instantly go back to being a little girl and getting treated with iodine and a bandage. Since I live in the house I grew up in, every once in a while when I open the coat closet I get a whiff of my mom and her career as a hairdresser and remember her coming home tired after giving perms all day and hang up her coat. It is such a crazy thing that our limbic brain holds onto memories that are associated with smell. Definitely check out this post about the brain…it is fascinating!
In my work with people with dementia and other neurological conditions, I use aromatherapy all the time. I love to share a blend of citrus oils with a touch of vanilla and tell a story that we are all young kids and the ice cream truck comes and on the side of the truck is something that smells just like that. I put a few drops in each of their hands and they smell it while I tell the story. Sure enough within a few seconds, someone will say “creamsicle” or “orange sherbet”. Sadly though not all memories are good. I usually spray the area that I will be teaching to gift an aromatherapy boost before the class. One day I sprayed a blend of orange, cinnamon, and clove. To me it smells like fall and the holidays, but to one of my students the clove triggered a horrible childhood memory and he was unable to stay in the class. I felt terrible and realized that not all smells are going to be welcomed. Lesson for me learned. Now I stick with pretty benign smells like citrus, lavenders and trees.
Pretty amazing that now that that we know this, we can use certain oils to uplift our mood or even relieve feelings of stress or worry and also create or trigger memories.
What is your go to mood oil? My all-time favorite is Wild Orange! It’s a beautiful “balancing” oil, meaning that depending on what are are feeling it can either lift us up or calm us down. It is a very unique citrus oil that has some pretty amazing benefits. I love it!!!! Heavenly! The blend that I have been wearing since my granddaughter was born that she now associates with me is orange, lavender, patchouli, rose and sandalwood.
If you are not sure but would like to try I’m happy to send you a sample to help your mood and memories!
If you’ve been following me for a while, you may see that I am a master at self-care. If I ever have an opportunity to wait for some thing, like an appointment, or my car to be serviced, or any time most people sit and scroll, I head off for a long walk to care for my mind, body and spirit. I didn’t used to be a practitioner of radical self-care, but it is a way of life for me now.
Have you ever noticed a waiting room and the head down, phone in hand, glued to the screen daze most people have? Sadly, so many people choose that versus a brisk walk with fresh air and sunflowers.
Stop the scroll. Move your body. Pay attention. Be grateful.
If you’re struggling with self-care and glued to your phone, I challenge you to put your phone down and go for a walk and pay attention to the real things that surround you like trees and birds and wildflowers and clouds. You might just find a clear mind and a better spirit. Plus, the benefit to your body of walking.
Summer afternoon to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.
—Henry James
Have any of you noticed how much nature reminds us of the bounty that is available? The constantly changing and growing plants tell me that the same extraordinary potential exists within me. I see how the animals gather and forage what they need and this reminds me that everything I need is right here. I am grateful for the rain and the amazing colors that surround me. My garden is a perfect example to me of “more than enough”– the green beans and cucumbers this year are starting to really take shape and I moved the pumpkin patch to a new location this and they are all very happy! I am planning to make my second batch of chokecherry jelly and pickles again this year and share with my neighbors! You can find my recipes at the bottom under the DIY section.
For years I have focused on creating a more abundant life and the ways in which that has all happened marvels me on a daily basis. Some may think of abundance as simply financial bounty, but I have come to see it as so much more.
For me abundance shows up in the random acts of kindness I receive, the support I consistently have for my classes, my friendships, the magnitude of joy in my life, colors everywhere, laughter that fills a room, a belly full of food, and enough money for me to live happily and generously.
As we come into the long, and usually hot month of August, I encourage you to look for the bounty in your life….things like lemonade, lazy afternoons in the hammock, delicious ice cream, sunflowers, sweet watermelon, a basket of veggies and much more.
I have lots of fun classes this month and chances to connect with yourself and with others. To me, that is just another great form of abundance. Be sure to check out my 30 Days of Yoga starting August 1st and delivered right to your inbox!
Love and gratitude,
Stacie
30 Days of Yoga!
Did you hear I am embarking on 30 days of Yoga this month?? Yep! Each and every day you will get a fresh video to practice in your own time! There is still time to sign up!
Watch this short video to learn more!
Full Moon Yoga in the Park
Join me in person for a celebration of the summer full moon! August 30th at 7pm! We will enjoy a gentle lunar practice that includes essential oils to celebrate the release associated with the full moon.
Your registration includes a custom full moon blend of oils with crystals. You MUST register or pre-pay for this event. (venmo, Zelle, PayPal are options…message me if you’d like to save a spot and pay this way).
cost: $25
Essential Yoga–ONLINE
This gorgeous practice can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home! Message me if you’d like samples of the essential oils used in this session.
Wanting to have access to yoga and pilates that fits in your schedule? You can access my entire library of videos on my website. I haven’t created any new content but my website is full of chair yoga, sensation and intuition based guided gentle yoga, pilates and meditation all on a donation basis.
Wellness Coaching
I am currently accepting two new wellness coaching clients. This program can be done virtually or in-person and includes a personalized plan, mindset coaching, nutrition, mindfulness, accountability, weekly coaching and more. Reach out to me if you are ready to focus on YOU.
Yoga Teacher Mentoring
Are you a current yoga teacher? I am offering a yoga teacher mentoring program to help yoga teachers learn how to modify and teach to those with different abilities. This program includes shadowing me in my assisted living settings and seeing hands-on the magic that happens! Ask me more!
Wellness Education
This month I am also offering my wellness education through the platform of beautiful freeebooks that you can keep for reference. Be sure to bookmark these as they are packed with information.
Many of you know that I use and rely on essential oils to maintain the health of my mind, body, and spirit. I use them throughout my home from cleaning, to pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. One of my favorite things is helping others get started using natural remedies and plant medicine. Right now you can get a free wholesale membership when you customize your own bundle or choose from a perfectly pre-chosen bundle. Either way you get 25% off retail prices for one year and there is never a commitment, just the same savings as me!
You will also get an awesome welcome package from me, access to my VIP community group, education and mentoring and much more. It is easy to get started! I am also happy to chat personally with you to find the perfect options for your needs.
i offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit virtually or over coffee. Together we will create a personalized plan. Schedule yours today!
This beautifully crafted blend of essential oils, gemstones and flowers is earthy, spicy and full of magic. Just one whiff and you will be transported to a place of abundance and appreciation for the fullness of life. Order here.
Recipes & DIY
Did you know you can use essential oils to make some awesome summer treats? Not just will the flavor be amazing but you’ll also get the benefit of the essential oils!
Fresh air, sun, trees. Nature is a magical thing, and according to some studies, can have strong healing powers — such as improving mood, boosting the immune system and increasing anti-cancer proteins.
Being outdoors in nature can be healing and beneficial for the body and mind. Whether at the beach, forest or in a neighborhood park, nature offers a calming effect. And when we combine nature with physical activity, it can help fight depression and anxiety.
Being outdoors can improve your health and well-being in the following five ways:
Lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress — Spending time walking among or simply looking at trees lowers blood pressure and reduces the stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
Improves mood — Researchers have found that nature simply makes us happy. Anxiety, depression and anger are notably decreased after spending time outdoors.
Improves focus — Studies show that both adults and children who have difficulties focusing or controlling impulses are better able to concentrate after being in nature. The natural world allows our brains to take a break from all that mentally drains us, and even reduces symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Helps us heal quicker — Illness and surgery can be painful and frightening, which can increase stress and slow healing. However, researchers discovered that patients who spent time outdoors during their recovery required fewer painkillers, had fewer complications and experienced shorter hospital stays.
Supports graceful aging — According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Health, adults over 70 who spent time outdoors experienced fewer sleep difficulties, complained less about aches and pains, and enjoyed improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities.
Have a beautiful month of abundance in all forms! xo, Stacie
About Stacie
Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.
With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.
Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes. Stacie offers adaptive yoga in a variety of assisted living settings in Colorado Springs and Denver Colorado.
Don’t want to wait days or weeks to enjoy homemade pickles? Easy Refrigerator Pickles are a quick version ready to eat in just a matter of hours! Made with a mixture of vinegar, garlic, turmeric, and other traditional pickling spices, Easy Refrigerator Pickles are packed with fabulous flavor. — And whipping up a batch takes hardly any effort at all.
If you’re like me you will soon have a bunch of garden-fresh cucumbers coming in that you’re looking for tasty ways to enjoy? Then give this super easy Refrigerator Pickles recipe a try!
A batch of tasty Refrigerator Pickles is super easy to make — truly requiring hardly any effort at all. Simply thinly slice a bunch of cucumbers, and layer the slices in a large glass bowl with thinly sliced onions. Then heat a simple vinegar-based brine and pour the hot brine over the cucumbers and onions. That’s it!
Let the brined pickles cool to room temperature, then chill them in the refrigerator for 4 hours. — After this brief brining time, you’re ready to dig in and enjoy their deliciousness.
This Refrigerator Pickles recipe has two components: 1. the pickles themselves, and 2. the vinegar-based brine. To whip up a batch you’ll need:
For the pickles:
Pickling cucumbers – Picklingcucumbers are the ones that are shorter and stouter than regular cucumbers. They have thinner skins, a crunchy texture, and smaller seeds, all of which are characteristics that make them perfect for pickles. — Think Kirby, Boston Pickling, and most homegrown cucumbers, just to name a few. If you don’t have your own homegrown, pickling cucumbers can be found in most grocery stores.
Onions – Bring flavor, and get pickled right along with the cucs! Any type of onion can be used, however we usually use sweet Vidalia or mild white onions.
For the brine:
White vinegar – Forms the base of the pickling brine. We recommend sticking with white vinegar rather than using other vinegar varieties, as white vinegar provides a more straightforward “cleaner” flavor base for the other pickling ingredients in the brine.
Fresh garlic – A key ingredient in creating a true pickle flavor. Thinly slice fresh garlic cloves (rather than leaving them whole) to fully release their flavor in this quick-pickle method.
Sugar – A bit of granulated sugar tones down and “smooths out” the vinegar flavor in the brine.
Salt – Enhances the flavor of the finished pickles. In a true canning process, salt also serves as a preservative for the pickles. Since Refrigerator Pickles are stored in the refrigerator for only up to 4 weeks, instead of in jars for a significantly longer period of time, salt serves soley a flavor role in this recipe.
Mustard seeds – A traditional pickling spice, mustard seeds bring that signature sharp, zingy flavor to the pickle brine.
Dill – You can use fresh dill (my preference) or dried dill. The more the better in my opinion!
Celery seeds – A spice made from the seeds of wild celery plants, celery seeds are also a traditional pickling spice. They add a strong, distinct flavor to pickles that is difficult to replicate with any other ingredient.
Turmeric – Brings a distinctive earthy flavor and the yellow color to these Refrigerator Pickles. Ground turmeric is a spice made from the roots of the turmeric plant, and is generally bright yellow in color but you can also use turmeric essential oil! What a punch of flavor!
Black pepper – Enhances the pickles’ flavor, bringing its signature peppery flavor to the mix.
Crushed red pepper – Crushed red pepper flakes bring the heat to the brine and finished pickles. The full 1/4 teaspoon called for in this refrigerator pickles recipe makes finished pickles that are quite spicy. If you don’t want spicy pickles, use just a pinch. If you don’t want any “heat” at all in your refrigerator pickles, omit the crushed red pepper altogether.
How to Make Easy Refrigerator Pickles:
It takes hardly any effort at all to whip up a big bowl of Easy Refrigerator Pickles. And what’s even better than that, is you’ll be enjoying their deliciousness in just a few hours after they’re made.
To get a batch going, start by thinly slicing about 6 cups of cucumbers and about 2 cups of onions. Layer the cucumber and onion slices together in wide mouth mason jars.
Next, heat up the pickling brine. — Combine some white vinegar, sliced garlic cloves, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, ground turmeric, black pepper, and crushed red pepper (if you like some heat in your pickles!) in a small saucepan, stirring them together until they’re well mixed. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat and cook everything together for 1 minute.
Immediately pour the hot vinegar mixture over the cucumber/onion mixture in the bowl — do not stir the cucumber and onion layers, just leave them be. If the hot vinegar mixture doesn’t completely cover and submerge all of the cucumbers and onions when you pour it over them, don’t worry. — As the cucumbers and onions sit and soften in the vinegar mixture, they will all eventually be submerged.
Let all of this cool to room temperature. Then place lids on jars and chill the pickles for at least 4 hours before serving.
When ready to enjoy, give the pickles a little stir to mix the cucumber and onion layers together. At this point, the Refrigerator Pickles can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 8 weeks.
I used to think that being a full time Yoga teacher would be the ultimate dream career. In many ways it has been, but the things I thought would be amazing turned out to be less important and there are a few things that have been really challenging and that has made the career a pretty tough one. Believe me it is not all comfy clothes and peaceful vibes.
Here are a few things I have learned in my nearly two decades of teaching:
1. Teaching Yoga is lonely.
I have been teaching Yoga for over 17 years and 99% of that time has been as a solo teacher out in the great big world all on my own. I taught at a gym studio briefly where I would occasionally pass by another fellow teacher. The rare team/staff meeting lended itself to some resemblance of a community, but that is it. When I left my j.o.b. to strike out and become a full-time Yoga teacher, the thing that hit me the hardest was how lonely it is. There are no weekly team meetings to bounce ideas off of a colleague. No lunches together to process tough situations. There is definitely no happy hours to celebrate successes. Instead, I sit in my car all alone feeling all the feels of what I witness and celebrating all by myself the “wins” of the day or week. There are no birthday lunches or holiday gatherings and there is absolutely nobody to collaborate with. Most days I wish more than anything I had someone who I could talk to that didn’t just say “wow that is so amazing”. Or hearing “what a difference you are making in the world”. Instead I’d love to be able to ask questions, give me feedback and really help me grow as a teacher, and a human being. I am making a difference and I do think it is all amazing, but I need collaborating and honest conversations about the work and the clients I serve. I need someone to hold me to the line when I need it. I am trying to find a community of teachers to collaborate with but it is tough. Sadly, the Yoga world is so competitive and I am finding that someone with a YTT piece of paper assumes they know it all and sharing ideas is not something of interest to most.
2. You are also a business manager and marketing guru.
Students don’t just fall into your lap. You have to market yourself and hustle if you want this to be your main focus in your work life. I spend on average 2-3 hours per day marketing my classes. My time is reaching out to students, and communicating with agencies. I do all of my own invoicing and accounting. I had to learn all of this on my own through trial and error. You might learn a few things in Yoga Teacher Training about running a business. It isn’t until you really step into teaching that you will begin figuring out your business name/model or how to get your name out there. You have to figure out what works for you in your location. Social media is a great tool, but not your only option. Learning how to do this is tough unless you have a marketing background. You will likely be doing do this all on your own.
3. Wearing Yoga clothes everyday isn’t all that great.
Okay this might be a silly point to make point but there is some truth in it. I mean, yes, it is nice to be comfortable, but there is a limit to feeling like a slob seven days a week. I long to wear regular clothes. I look so forward to slipping on a dress or a pair of tights jeans on a day off or out for the evening. This may seem like a silly thing to everyday people but I am shocked at how many people tell me how lucky I am because I get to wear Yoga clothes everyday. I thought so too until I realized it isn’t all that great.
4. Being “on” and inspiring everyday can be exhausting.
I give myself so much more grace on this than I did when I first began teaching. I thought I had to have the perfect theme and say every word precisely. I still hold myself to a very high standard when it comes to being prepared for my classes. I continue to teach topics that people can use to improve their lives (off the mat or chair), and I want to also challenge myself to grow right along side my students. I realize somedays are going to be a little off. Whether I had a horrible commute, am living with a lot of pain, or simply just don’t feel it on a certain day I still have to deliver.
5. The teacher teaches what the teacher need to learn.
I have learned over the years to go there with your students. This includes my students with TBI and dementia, or my everyday able bodied students. By go there I mean be with them, sit with them, feel with them, laugh with them, receive with them. Be willing to learn from them, be humbled in yourself and you will be just fine. Be open to learning about yourself through the process of teaching and you will not only inspire others but you will grow exponentially as a teacher and a person. The more you teach a hard topic (for me this can be something like acceptance), the more you embrace it. Be willing to learn and never think that you know everything. Even if you can speak fluent sanskrit and can translate all the sutras. To me, a great teacher is one willing to learn alongside the student.
I wouldn’t change a thing when it comes to what I have chosen to do with this special life. I am grateful every single day that I get to serve. Before each class, as I enter through the threshold of a doorway, I say this, “give me the words and show me the way”.
Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.
They say it takes twenty one days to create a new habit. I am not sure who “they” are but it seems like a logical and probably pretty true statement. Years ago when I had my great wake up and decided that I needed major changes in my life, I wanted the results to happen immediately but was kindly reminded by a friend that for as long as it took to get unhealthy, it would take that long to get healthy. And, it really did.
What began for me as a weight loss program became a life changing experience that altered the path that I was on and opened hundreds of doors for me. I not only lost the 80+ pounds and created many healthy habits I also discovered a holistic approach to living and an incredibly grateful heart.
One of the biggest game changers came by learning the beautiful practice of Yoga. After a few years of practicing I became a Yoga teacher and sixteen years later, here I am. I teach many classes a week but have honestly lost much of my personal practice. I am like anyone else and make a million excuses as to why I don’t “have the time” to unroll my mat or pull up a chair. I decided it is time for that to change!
Starting August 1st I am inviting anyone to join me in sharing accountability to practice Yoga consistently(again). Each day I will send out a 15-30 minute Yoga gentle session directly to your inbox that you can do on your own time and not have to worry about logging in at a certain time. Knowing that I have people like you counting on me to get on the mat, I am hoping to cultivate that glorious habit of practicing Yoga consistently again. If you need help creating a home practice time and space, check out this blog post.
Will you join me in this habit creating Yoga accountability month? It is simple to sign up!
Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.
With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is an E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.
Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes.
In addition to teaching classes at a variety of local centers and health clubs, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.
