Hip Replacement Recovery

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As I approach the one-year mark since my hip replacement surgery, I find myself reflecting on the journey.. This past year of hip replacement recovery has been a profound teacher, showing me the power of patience, resilience, and self-compassion. I’ve learned that healing isn’t linear; some days feel like giant leaps forward, while others require grace for the setbacks.

Strength doesn’t just come from physical therapy but also from the mindset we cultivate. What has been most helpful is staying consistent with gratitude, listening to my body’s cues, and surrounding myself with support—whether from professionals, loved ones, or fellow warriors on a similar path. On the other hand, what hasn’t been helpful is the pressure to “bounce back” quickly or compare my progress to others. Healing happens in its own time, and learning to honor that has been one of the greatest lessons of all.

I believe that beyond the practical advice we are given for recovering from a total hip replacement, if we learned to add mindfulness into the process we will embrace whatever comes our way. Mindful recovery means we look deeply at our thoughts, words and actions everyday.

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Through reflection and mindfulness I have looked back at this year and created what I have found to be helpful and not helpful, and the lessons I have learned.

What is Helpful

I have spent the last year learning what is helpful in my recovery. In addition to a daily gratitude practice, here are my top perspective take-aways:

  • Hearing the words “I am sorry” goes a long, long way when you are in a challenging situation
  • Being asked “how can I help” feels so supportive
  • Having someone ask questions like “how are you doing emotionally” can be game changers

What is NOT Helpful

On the other side of what is helpful, I found things completely not helpful. Here is my quick list:

  • Blaming the doctor, the hospital or the patient serves no good
  • Suggesting that I sue the surgeon or the hospital is a waste of time
  • Comparing my experience with anyone else’s
  • Being exposed to negativity and toxic energy
  • Hearing “you’ll be fine” or “tomorrow will be better”

Life’s challenges often serve as our greatest teachers, offering lessons that shape our resilience, perspective, and inner strength. Difficult experiences push us beyond our comfort zones, forcing us to adapt, grow, and find meaning in hardship. While struggles can feel overwhelming in the moment, they often reveal our capacity for perseverance and self-discovery.

Through these trials, we learn the importance of patience, self-compassion, and the support of others. Every setback carries a hidden lesson, whether it’s the value of slowing down, the power of gratitude, or the realization that we are stronger than we ever imagined. In the end, challenges don’t define us—they refine us.

Lessons Learned

I was able to reflect on the last year and compile my top lessons that I have learned. Here they are:

  • Every single day you MUST find joy
  • Learning to ask for help can be the greatest gift you can give yourself
  • Accepting help from others can be good for you and others
  • Practicing the great pause

In this video I capture the details of the helpful and not helpful thoughts as well as the lessons learned. I also give the much anticipated update and next steps for my recovery. Sadly, another surgery is around the corner.

To see the entire journey, click here and you will see my entire playlist devoted to the total hip replacement journey.

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February

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February is a month of transition, love, and quiet resilience. The shortest month of the year, it carries the lingering stillness of winter while hinting at the promise of spring. It’s a time for warmth in small moments—steaming mugs of tea, cozy blankets, and heartfelt connections.

Symbolically, February is tied to love and self-compassion, with Valentine’s Day reminding us to nurture not just relationships with others, but also with ourselves.

Nature remains in hibernation, yet subtle shifts begin—a slightly longer day, a gentler breeze, the first signs of renewal. February teaches us to embrace patience, self-care, and the quiet beauty of growth beneath the surface.

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A Month of Self-Love & Sweet Moments

February is a great time to focus on heart centered thoughts and actions. For many this includes showering others with love. This is also a great time to love on yourself. This month, I intend to plan a lot of fun online offerings around what it really means to live a heart centered life.

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What is Heart Centered Living?

Heart-centered living is a way of approaching life with awareness, compassion, and authenticity. It means making choices based on love, kindness, and inner wisdom rather than fear, external pressures, or ego-driven desires. When you live heart-centered, you prioritize emotional well-being, meaningful connections, and alignment with your true values.

Some key aspects of heart-centered living include:
 Self-awareness & intuition – Listening to your inner voice and making choices that align with your soul’s truth.
 Compassion & kindness – Treating yourself and others with understanding, love, and non-judgment.
 Gratitude & presence – Appreciating the present moment and cultivating a sense of joy in everyday life.
 Authenticity – Living in alignment with who you truly are, without pretending or people-pleasing.
 Connection – Prioritizing deep, meaningful relationships with others and the world around you.

Final February Thoughts

As we enter into this finally month of winter and focus on love, let’s remember these simple ways to practice self love.

Self-Love Reminder: You deserve rest. You deserve joy. You deserve to treat yourself the way you would a dear friend.

Have a Mindful Treat: Whether it’s a piece of dark chocolate, a homemade baked good, or a warm cup of cocoa, take a moment to truly savor something sweet—without guilt, just love.

Gentle Affirmation Practice: Try placing a hand over your heart, closing your eyes, and whispering:
“I am worthy, enough and I am loved.”

What is on tap for your February? Here is more inspiration and tons of recipes!

What is Karma

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“How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours.” — Wayne Dyer

Karma is a concept that is often misunderstood. Many people see it as a system of punishment and reward—a cosmic scorecard that doles out justice. However, at its core, karma is not about retribution but rather about cause and effect. It is the natural unfolding of consequences based on our actions, thoughts, and intentions.

As I continue to struggle with my hip recovery, I often get people saying that I don’t deserve this because I do good in the world. Would I be experiencing this if I didn’t do good things? Is what they are referring to karma? I do not think so.

In my mind, karma is not punitive or rewarding.

In many spiritual traditions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, karma is seen as a teacher rather than a judge. When we act with kindness, integrity, and compassion, we tend to experience more peace and fulfillment. When we act with harm, dishonesty, or negativity, we may encounter challenges—not as punishment, but as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness.

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A key aspect of karma is that it is not instant, nor is it always obvious. Sometimes the effects of our actions take time to unfold, and they may not always manifest in the ways we expect. This can be frustrating, especially when we feel we are acting with good intentions yet still face difficulties. However, rather than seeing these moments as punishment, we can view them as an invitation to reflect and realign with our highest values.

In our daily lives, karma reminds us to be intentional with our actions. How we treat others, the energy we put into the world, and the mindset we carry all contribute to the experiences we attract. If we want more love, we can offer love. If we want more kindness, we can be kind. This doesn’t mean life will always be fair or predictable, but it does mean we have more power over our experiences than we often realize.

Ultimately, karma is a mirror.

It reflects our choices and allows us to take responsibility for the energy we cultivate in our lives. Instead of fearing karma as a force of punishment, we can embrace it as a guide. A guide that helps us live with greater awareness, intention, and purpose.

As I move forward with my struggles I will continue to do good without any attachment to being rewarded (or punished). In my downtime I am crocheting hats for the needy, making cards for my neighbors, sharing uplifting messages on social media, baking bread for others and generally trying to share goodness from my heart.

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Heart-Shaped Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

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Valentine’s Day Heart Shaped Whoopie Pies are sure to bring a little love into your world. A heart-shaped red velvet whoopie pie is a soft, cake-like cookie with a vibrant red hue, sandwiching a luscious layer of creamy vanilla filling. The slight cocoa flavor adds richness, while the smooth frosting provides a perfect balance of sweetness. Rolled in festive Valentine’s sprinkles, each bite is a delightful mix of fluffy, moist texture and indulgent creaminess—making it a perfect treat for sharing love and joy.

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk (1/2 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice = buttermilk)
  • 1 tsp red food coloring (this is my fave natural food coloring)

Ingredients for the filling:

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  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

For decoration:

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cream butter & sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
  4. Add buttermilk & food coloring: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing just until combined. Stir in red food coloring until fully incorporated.
  5. Pipe heart shapes: Transfer the batter to a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe heart shapes onto the baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Let cool completely.
  7. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  8. Assemble: Spread or pipe the filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another to make a sandwich.
  9. Decorate: Roll the edges in Valentine’s sprinkles for extra flair.
  10. Enjoy!
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Spring Cleaning

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In order to grow we must first remove what it is in the way.

Spring cleaning is not just about sparkly windows and clean cabinets. We can take spring cleaning into a personal level and clear out the mind, body and the spirit. When we think about spring cleaning for the spirit, we can turn to the principles of Yoga.

Patanjali, creator of the Yoga Sutra, wrote about how the practice of Yoga contains 8 “limbs”. The Yamas and the Niyamas are the first two limbs and help guide us to being the best version of ourselves. The yamas are guidelines for how to operate in society, while the niyamas show how to elevate our inner being.

Suacha is the second Niyama.

It is loosely defined as cleanliness or purity. I believe this is a time more than ever for Suacha. The post pandemic opinions that run rampant AND it being a presidential election year this may be a LOUD cry for a radical practice of Suacha, (that may be a little dramatic…). Sometimes we get so clouded by the opinions of others and the internal response that it gives us, that we struggle to remember what is our own truth because it becomes so muddied with clutter and then uncertainty. 

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Suacha is a principle in which we literally clean up our lives, and I believe this all starts with our thoughts. If our inner landscape is a mess, it is likely the rest of life follows suit. Relationships are probably splintered, and our general happiness may be clouded if our inner world is cluttered. This principle encourages us to watch the unclean thoughts that enter into our mind–fear, worries, competition, anger and more. 

Of course this also can mean making time for cleaning up our environment. When our living space is orderly and tidy, it I likely we will feel more grounded and clear. The level of tidiness in our outer world can also make a substantial difference in how you feel. When your rooms are tidy, it has an influence on your unconscious. The less cluttered your environment — the less you have to think about — and the more you can ease into everyday life.

I love to think about a garden this time of year. We might see the beginnings of green shoots but we also see all of last years growth laying on top and around the attempt of new growth. In order for the green stuff to grow into amazing beauty, we must first pull out and throw away all of the old material that is in the way. Imagine if we got rid of the same old stuff in our and heads and hearts? Things like bitterness, the past, the hurt feelings, regrets, shame and the like. Without all that stuff in the way, it is likely you may have some amazing growth!

More than anything I believe, Suacha invites each of us to look at practicing a deep, soul cleansing. This is a time to ask ourselves what is bringing clutter into our hearts and minds. Is it the media? The gossiping and negativity? Perhaps it is the barrage of opinions that run rampart on our social media. The division we witness in our current world is evident as an apparent onslaught of emotions that clog the veins that lead to our spiritual self. And in turn, we have become hardened, angry, tarnished souls with little compassion for each other. Ouch…

This is a pivotal time in our own responsibility to ask ourselves hard questions. 

What is seeking to be released or cleansed from the very essence of our beings? Are there mental and emotional patterns that are no longer serving us? What is seeking to be cleansed on a micro (individual) and macro (global) level? How can we get curious about this deeper meaning?

Here are some tips to allow Suacha to become part of your practice for living your best life:

  • To cleanse the mind, meditate, pray and/or journal for 10–20 minutes each day
  • Purify the body with a yoga practice a few times a week
  • Sweat out those toxins–go for a hike, ride your bicycle, MOVE
  • Doodle in a journal and let your creative side process your feelings
  • Clean your entire home at least once a week
  • Burn incense, lay your crystals out in the moon, diffuse oils
  • Acknowledge all your emotions, positive and negative write them down, then tear the paper and release it.
  • Trust your intuition, it will guide you on what are the best Suacha practices for YOU

Suacha is not a one time thing or even a springtime thing. 

Suacha, like Yoga, is a way of being. Learning to begin watching your thoughts, you may find that your words and actions that follow may be in need of a little cleaning up.

Stay tuned for more springtime wisdom as we enter into the fabulous season of growth!

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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 experienced 500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Certified Trauma Informed Coach, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor.

Benefits of Meditation

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Feeling super lost, unfocused, cranky? Wonder what meditation is all about? Do you have to be perfectly still? Check this out!

Meditation offers a wide range of benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. Here are some key advantages:

Mental Benefits

1. Reduces Stress: Lowers cortisol levels and promotes relaxation.

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2. Enhances Focus: Improves attention and concentration.

3. Boosts Emotional Health: Encourages positive thinking and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.

4. Increases Self-Awareness: Helps you connect with your thoughts and emotions.

5. Improves Memory: Supports better retention and cognitive function.

Physical Benefits

1. Lowers Blood Pressure: Supports heart health by reducing stress-related hypertension.

2. Improves Sleep: Helps you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest.

3. Boosts Immunity: Reduces inflammation and supports overall health.

4. Relieves Pain: Eases chronic pain by increasing body awareness.

Spiritual Benefits

1. Encourages Inner Peace: Creates a sense of calm and harmony.

2. Deepens Connection: Fosters a sense of oneness with yourself and the world.

3. Enhances Gratitude: Cultivates a mindful appreciation for life.

Practical Benefits

1. Improves Decision-Making: Helps with clear thinking under pressure.

2. Supports Productivity: Balances mental energy for better performance.

3. Encourages Patience: Builds resilience in stressful situations.

Even just a few minutes of daily meditation can yield noticeable benefits.

Try this simple meditation to get you started!

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With over seventeen years of experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Certified Trauma Informed Coach, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is featured on Insight Meditation and all major podcast platforms featuring her podcast Embracing Wisdom with Stacie.

Serving Others and Cultivating the Greater Good

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In a world that often feels fast-paced and self-centered, the act of serving others stands as a profound counterbalance—a way to connect, inspire, and build a greater sense of purpose. Service to others doesn’t require grand gestures or vast resources. Instead, it begins with small, heartfelt acts of kindness that ripple outward, creating an impact far greater than we might imagine.

Why Service Matters

When we serve others, we tap into a deeper sense of humanity. Science and spirituality alike remind us that helping others not only benefits the recipient but also nurtures the giver. Acts of service release oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, fostering connection and joy. Beyond this, service cultivates empathy, strengthens communities, and reminds us of the beauty of interdependence.

Small Steps Toward Big Impact

Often, we underestimate the power of small actions. A simple smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture can brighten someone’s day. What may seem ordinary to us can be extraordinary to someone in need. Consider volunteering a few hours at a local shelter, helping a neighbor with groceries, or simply being present for a friend who needs to talk. These moments of service weave a tapestry of kindness that uplifts everyone involved.

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Cultivating the “Greater Good”

The “greater good” begins with individual intention. When we act with selflessness and compassion, we inspire others to do the same. Imagine a world where these acts multiply—where kindness becomes contagious and communities are transformed. By cultivating an attitude of service, we contribute to a collective spirit of unity and hope.

Reflect and Engage

Take a moment to reflect: How can you serve today? Perhaps it’s through your talents, your time, or simply your willingness to listen. Every action, no matter how small, carries the potential to plant seeds of positivity that will grow and flourish in ways you may never witness.

As we move forward, let us remember the power of service. Together, we can build a world rooted in compassion, one act of kindness at a time. Serving others isn’t just an act—it’s a way of being, a path to cultivating the greatest good within ourselves and our communities.

What will your next step be in creating this ripple of service?

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Pumpkin Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

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Looking for a fun and healthy way to treat your furry friend? Try making homemade peanut butter pumpkin dog biscuits! These easy-to-bake treats combine two dog-approved flavors—peanut butter and pumpkin—into a wholesome snack that’s packed with nutrients.

Pumpkin is great for your dog’s digestion, while peanut butter adds protein and a flavor they’ll love. The best part? You can control exactly what goes into the recipe, ensuring it’s free from unnecessary additives or preservatives. Plus, making these biscuits is a great family activity that your dog will definitely thank you for—with tail wags and happy barks! My picky little chihuahua loves these!

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Biscuits ?

Ingredients:

• 1 cup powdered peanut butter

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• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for grain-free)

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)

• 1/4 cup water (add more if needed)

Optional Additions:

• 1 tsp cinnamon (good for digestion)

• 1 egg (for extra binding and protein)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix powdered peanut butter and flour.

Add pumpkin and water, stirring until the dough comes together. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into shapes with cookie cutters (bones or circles work great!).

Place on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are firm.

Let cool completely before serving to your pup.

Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Your furry friend will love these healthy, homemade treats! ?

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Choose Kindness

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“You can always give something, even if it is only kindness!” — Anne Frank

I have come to learn that during this season of focusing on our own goals and our own aspirations we can sometimes become consumed with ourselves.  This is not necessarily a bad thing. I have found that this time of year we can lose site of the opportunities to show kindness for someone else as we strive to achieve our own goals.

A few years ago, as I was leaving a class at a senior facility I grabbed my bag and attempted to hurry out to get on with some personal errands I had to do.  I stopped for a second to say goodbye to a sweet little man who often just sits at the computer and cries.  He chooses to never participate in yoga and I rarely see him interact with anyone. Instead, he just cries. Weeps is more like it.

There was my moment to choose myself, or choose kindness.

I pulled up a chair and leaned towards him.  He wiped his tears and stuttered a bit as I sat to talk to him. Since the yoga class prior was about setting goals for growth and personal development, I asked him if he had a goal.  He very quietly whispered, “do you think it is too late to learn to read?”

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This beautiful man is 61 years old and he had never learned to read.

No wonder he sits in front a computer crying until someone types into the search bar what he is looking for. I got a bit closer and pulled up an easy online reading game and together, we sounded out the letters of the alphabet and some simple words in the game. His face was beaming when he realized that he looked at a picture, a letter and a word and together “read” the word apple. He clutched at my arm and said, “I am reading”.

Five minutes of my life.

I got out of my life and my goals and gave kindness.  It really is so simple.

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Coconut Lemon Scones

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Coconut lemon scones are a delightful baked treat that combines tropical coconut flavors with the bright, tangy zest of lemon. They are tender and slightly crumbly, with a rich yet refreshing flavor profile.

Ingredients:

Scones

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold salted butter, cubed or grated
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut
  • one egg
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup, plus 4 tablespoons heavy cream

Glaze

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  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 3 drops Lemon Essential Oil

Directions:

For the scones:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large glass bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into the mixture using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add the coconut.
  3. Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add ¾ cup of the heavy cream, beaten egg, and lemon juice. Mix the dough together. It should have a slightly dry texture, but not crumbly. Add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream if the dough seems too dry.
  4. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 1 minute. Form the dough into a round 1-inch thick, and use a knife or a pizza 4. cutter to cut the round into 8 equal wedges. I also cut them one more time to make mini scones. Arrange the wedges in a round, but about 1 inch apart, on the baking sheet. Brush the wedges with 4 tablespoons heavy cream and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the scones are golden and the edges are lightly toasted.

For the glaze:

  1. In a glass bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon essential oil. Drizzle the glaze on top of the warm scones.

Serve the scones warm or cold. Either way they will be delicious!

*Note: It is important to be sure you are using an essential oil that is safe for consumption. Many so called ‘essential oils’ from drugstores and grocery stores are quite toxic if taken internally. I choose to use only Certified Pure Therapuetic Grade doTERRA Essential oils. I recommended working closely with someone who can mentor you on the use of essential oils. You can also downloaded this free ebook that is a perfect guide for using essential oils. 

I would love to hear what you think! Comment below and let me know if you loved these!

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If you love my content and want more tools for mindfulness & movement, check out my digital products on Buy Me a Coffee! Your support helps me continue creating. 

Essential Oils

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Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts used for various purposes, including aromatherapy, skincare, and overall wellness. Using essential oils for your physical and emotion health is such a great way to empower yourself. Here’s a beginner’s guide to using essential oils safely and effectively:

1. Understand Essential Oils

  • What Are They?: Highly concentrated extracts from plants, capturing their scents and beneficial properties.
  • Common Uses:
    • Aromatherapy (stress relief, energy boost)
    • Topical application (skin care, massage)
    • Household cleaning (natural cleaning solutions)

2. Popular Essential Oils

  • Lavender: Relaxation, sleep aid, skin-soothing.
  • Peppermint: Energy boost, headache relief, digestion.
  • Tea Tree: Antimicrobial, acne treatment, cleaning.
  • Eucalyptus: Respiratory support, deodorizing.
  • Lemon: Uplifting, cleaning, immune support.

3. Methods of Use

Aromatherapy

  • Diffusion: Use a diffuser to disperse oils into the air for inhalation.
  • Inhalation: Add a drop to a tissue or your palms, then inhale deeply.

Topical Application

  • Dilution: Mix with a carrier oil (like coconut, jojoba, or almond oil) to avoid skin irritation. Common ratio: 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
  • Spot Treatment: Apply to areas like wrists, temples, or soles of feet.

Baths

  • Add 3-5 drops to bathwater with a dispersant (like a tablespoon of carrier oil or Epsom salts) to avoid direct skin contact.

Household Use

  • Add to cleaning solutions for a natural, pleasant scent.
  • Use in DIY room sprays or linen mists.

4. Safety Guidelines

  • Dilution is Key: Never apply undiluted oils directly to your skin unless specified as safe by the manufacturer.
  • Patch Test: Test on a small area of skin before regular use.
  • Internal Use: Only consume oils if labeled as food-grade and advised by a healthcare professional.
  • Storage: Keep oils in dark glass bottles, away from heat and light.
  • Keep Away from Children and Pets: Some oils can be toxic to pets (like tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus oils) and harmful if ingested.

5. Choosing Quality Oils

  • Look for labels like “100% pure” or “therapeutic grade.”
  • Check the Latin botanical name to confirm authenticity.
  • Purchase from reputable brands.
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When I was first using essential oils I was so overwhelmed. I wasn’t sure what did what, if I was going to mess up or if I was going to make a horrible concoction, so I got a great resource book and starting learning. In no time I gained confidence and was able to learn how to use them safely and effectively. 

Learning new things is exciting to me and this topic still excites me. When I am helping new people get started I often say, “remember when you had to learn how to cook?? You needed a recipe or cookbook, right?”…..Oils are so similar! We all need the equivalent to the Joy of Cooking when it comes to using essential oils. Here is my fave resource book to learn from.

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Grab your resource book and commit to learning 1-2 oils a week! In no time you will be making up remedies, creating fabulous diffuser blends to switch up the mood in your space, tossing together a cool DIY and probably sharing your new knowledge with just about anyone!

The most important thing to remember is to choose your preferred company based on the ethics that align with you and your vision for life. I personally chose doTERRA. Here are three key reasons why doTERRA is often considered a great choice:

1. High-Quality Standards

  • CPTG® Certification: doTERRA uses a proprietary Certified Pure Tested Grade® (CPTG) process to ensure its oils are pure, potent, and free of contaminants. Each batch undergoes rigorous third-party testing.
  • Sourcing Transparency: The company shares detailed sourcing and testing results with consumers, emphasizing their commitment to quality and accountability.

2. Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing

  • Co-Impact Sourcing®: doTERRA partners with farmers and distillers worldwide to create sustainable and ethical sourcing relationships. They focus on fair wages and community development.
  • Environmental Commitment: doTERRA emphasizes environmentally responsible practices, ensuring their sourcing and production do not harm ecosystems.

3. Holistic Wellness and Education

Education and Support: The company provides extensive resources, including training for wellness advocates, usage guides, and customer support, to help users maximize the benefits of essential oils.

Product Variety: Beyond essential oils, doTERRA offers wellness products, including supplements, personal care, and cleaning solutions, promoting a holistic approach to health.

Keep this handy chart because it really can be as a simple as this, too. 

Starting a Home Yoga Practice

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Starting a home yoga practice can be a transformative journey for your mind, body, and spirit. Starting a yoga practice at home also offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits.  However, like starting anything, it can be scary and uncertain. By understanding a few tips to get started, you can begin with a little more knowledge and courage.

Here are some tips for beginners:

1. Set Your Intentions

  • Decide why you want to practice yoga (e.g., stress relief, flexibility, strength, or mindfulness).
  • Keep your goals realistic and focus on enjoying the process.

2. Start Small and Simple

  • Begin with shorter sessions (10-20 minutes) and gradually increase duration.
  • Focus on basic poses like Child’s Pose, Downward Dog, Warrior I, and Cat-Cow.

3. Choose the Right Style

  • Explore styles like Hatha (gentle and beginner-friendly), Vinyasa (flow-based), or Yin (deep stretches).
  • Experiment with different classes or teachers to find what resonates with you.

4. Create a Comfortable Space

  • Set up a quiet, clutter-free area with enough room to stretch and move.
  • Use props like a yoga mat, blocks, and straps to support your practice.

5. Wear Comfortable Clothing

  • Choose clothing that allows free movement and doesn’t restrict your breathing.

6. Listen to Your Body

  • Avoid pushing yourself into pain; yoga is about progress, not perfection.
  • Use modifications as needed and honor where your body is each day.

7. Practice Breathing Techniques

  • Focus on deep, steady breathing (like Ujjayi breath) to calm your mind and enhance your practice.
  • Pair your breath with your movements for a meditative flow.

8. Stay Consistent

  • Try to practice regularly, even if it’s just a few minutes daily.
  • Consistency is key to building strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.

9. Seek Guidance

  • Consider joining a beginner’s yoga class or using online videos/tutorials.
  • A qualified instructor can ensure proper alignment and provide personalized tips.

10. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself

  • Yoga is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate small progress and enjoy the learning process.
  • Remember, everyone’s practice looks different—focus on your unique path.

Check out these additional tips for beginning a home yoga practice. If you don’t think you have the perfect space, maybe this article will help you get started!

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Here are five basic styles of yoga, each with its unique focus and benefits:

1. Hatha Yoga

  • Focus: A gentle introduction to yoga postures and breathing techniques.
  • Best For: Beginners or those looking for a slower-paced practice.
  • Key Features:
    • Combines physical poses (asanas) with breathing (pranayama).
    • Emphasizes balance, alignment, and mindfulness.

2. Vinyasa Yoga

  • Focus: Flowing movements synchronized with breath.
  • Best For: Those who enjoy dynamic, dance-like sequences.
  • Key Features:
    • Smooth transitions between poses.
    • Often set to music, creating an energetic atmosphere.

3. Ashtanga Yoga

  • Focus: A structured sequence of poses performed in a specific order.
  • Best For: People who enjoy discipline and a physically demanding practice.
  • Key Features:
    • Follows a set series of poses.
    • Builds strength, flexibility, and stamina.

4. Yin Yoga

  • Focus: Deep stretching and relaxation, targeting connective tissues.
  • Best For: Those seeking stress relief, flexibility, and a meditative experience.
  • Key Features:
    • Long-held, passive poses (2-5 minutes).
    • Encourages stillness and introspection.

5. Restorative Yoga

  • Focus: Deep relaxation and stress relief through passive, supported poses.
  • Best For: Those seeking rest, recovery, and a calming practice.
  • Key Features:
    • Long-held poses (5-20 minutes) with extensive use of props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks.
    • Activates the parasympathetic nervous system for deep relaxation and healing.

Check out this for more on several styles of Yoga

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Share the Kindess

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 seventeen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is an experienced 500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Certified Trauma Informed Coach, 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.