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

If you are ready to experience gentle yoga virtually, check out my new online weekly LIVE class! All Fromm the comfort of your own home!

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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.

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls

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White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls make a perfect Valentine’s Day treat. They’re more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of love, thoughtfulness, and indulgence, ideal for making Valentine’s Day extra special.

Here’s the recipe to make them:

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake Balls Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips (melted for coating)
  • 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (optional, for texture)
  • Extra raspberries or powdered sugar (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
    • Gently fold in the fresh raspberries. Be careful not to overmix; some chunks are okay.
    • Chill the mixture for 1-2 hours or until firm enough to roll.
  2. Form the Balls:
    • Scoop out portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Freeze for 30 minutes to make them easier to handle.
  3. Coat in White Chocolate:
    • Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler.
    • Dip each cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring even coating. Place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
  4. Garnish and Serve:
    • Optionally, sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs while the chocolate is still wet.
    • Let the coating set completely at room temperature or in the fridge.
    • Serve garnished with extra raspberries or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also pipe red frosting for a touch of elegance.

Enjoy your sweet, creamy treats!

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Implementing Your Intentions

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Let’s face it, setting an intention is the easy part. Implementing your intention can be the true work. To implement your intention, you are basically saying to the universe you are willing to step into a relationship that requires work. All relationships take work and this spiritual marriage between you and the universe is no different.

My Intention for the Year

I have set out to bring a sense of renewal into my life. It is not that my life is bad, but I do have certain lifestyle choices that I know need to be adjusted. At one point in my life many of those choices worked for me. That is no longer the case.

To implement a sense of renewal, and align with the forces of the universe, I must be willing to have deliberate actions. Publicly proclaiming your intention is a powerful step to begin the process. Plus, it gives me a record for accountability.

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Implementing My Intention

I know that some changes have to happen to bring my intention of renewal into action. To me, renewal means the process of making something fresh, new, or strong again. Here is how I plan to implement the energy of renewal into my life this year.

  • Ditch my tracking of steps walked. Yep, that is correct. After twenty five years of logging my steps, I am going to release it. I am not going to look at the amount of steps, but rather look for quality of steps. Are they in nature? Were my daily steps meaningful? Did I enjoy my time walking?
  • Shift directions a bit. By fostering the things that bring me joy, I am going to make more space for them. That will give me less space for things that cause me stress. I still intend to teach adaptive yoga as my primary “job”, but implanting my own bakery business is next up for cultivating JOY.
  • Nurture my creative side. I intend to create some magic in my life through publishing affirmation cards, a teaching manual for yoga teachers, and an online course for mindful manifesting. Watch out! It is going to be another new direction I take my business. These options will allow me to renew my physical body by reducing my demanding workload.
  • Foster my friendships and relationships. Most people know I work a lot. I genuinely love what I do so it never feels like work to me. However, in my desire to do what I love, relationships and friendships have been less of a priority the last 10 years. I want to renew some old friendships and create new ones.

Tips for Implementing Your intention

To implement your action plan for your intention you must do a few things that will bring the intention into your daily life. I find these simple things bring great power to your world:

  • Write it down. Put the word of your intention everywhere you might see it. Your mirror, car, planner, desk, and screen saver on phone. Anywhere your eyes will be, the word needs to be there.
  • Tell people your intention. You have to talk about it to anyone in your life. I have been known to even tell my dentist and barista my intention! When you speak it, you become it.
  • Choose daily. Everyday you must be willing to think, speak and act in alignment with your intention. Not everyday will be a success, but at least you can know that you are on your way!
  • Affirm your intention. Every day spend 3-5 minutes speaking your intention into an I AM affirmation. For example, “I am renewing”.

Not sure what your intention is? This video will walk you through the process of finding your intention! This step by step tutorial will help you find the direction your spirit is wanting you to take this year!

Beginner Yoga

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For newcomers, yoga serves as a gentle introduction to holistic health and wellness. Starting with basic poses and breathing exercises sets the stage for more advanced practices and lifelong benefits. Practicing beginner yoga offers a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how it can positively impact your life:

Physical Benefits

  1. Improves Flexibility
    • Yoga stretches the muscles gently, increasing range of motion over time.
  2. Builds Strength
    • Basic poses like Warrior and Plank engage muscles, helping to tone and strengthen.
  3. Enhances Balance
    • Poses like Tree Pose improve stability and coordination.
  4. Boosts Posture
    • Focus on alignment helps counteract slouching and improve spinal health.
  5. Increases Energy Levels
    • Gentle movements and deep breathing can combat fatigue and increase vitality.
  6. Promotes Better Sleep
    • Relaxation techniques calm the nervous system, improving sleep quality.
  7. Supports Joint Health
    • Yoga moves the joints through their full range of motion, reducing stiffness.
  8. Aids Digestion
    • Twisting poses and mindful breathing can stimulate the digestive system.

Mental Benefits

  1. Reduces Stress
    • Mindful breathing and relaxation techniques lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
  2. Increases Focus
    • Yoga teaches concentration by focusing on breath and movement.
  3. Promotes Mindfulness
    • Encourages living in the present moment, enhancing awareness and gratitude.
  4. Improves Mental Clarity
    • Regular practice can help clear mental clutter, improving decision-making and creativity.

Emotional Benefits

  1. Enhances Mood
    • Yoga releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing feelings of anxiety or depression.
  2. Builds Self-Confidence
    • Achieving poses and practicing self-compassion can boost confidence and self-esteem.
  3. Develops Patience
    • Learning to hold poses and practice regularly teaches patience and persistence.
  4. Fosters Emotional Resilience
    • Yoga encourages letting go of negative emotions, creating space for calm and positivity.

Holistic Health Benefits

  1. Improves Breathing
    • Breathing exercises (pranayama) strengthen the lungs and improve oxygen flow.
  2. Supports Immune System
    • Stress reduction and improved circulation can enhance immunity.
  3. Balances Hormones
    • Yoga can help regulate the endocrine system, promoting hormonal balance.
  4. Encourages a Healthy Lifestyle
    • Yoga often inspires better habits, including mindful eating and regular exercise.

Join Me!

Subscribe to my YouTube channel to get first access to Yoga for Beginner’s series that is coming soon!

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With over seventeen years 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 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.

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Choosing a Word of the Year

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Set the tone for 2025 by selecting a word of the year that aligns with your goals, intentions, and desired feelings. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to pick the perfect word and implement it into your daily life to stay focused and inspired throughout the year. Watch the video below to learn how and why!

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Steps to Choosing and Using Your Word of the Year:

  • ? Identify what you truly want to achieve.
  • ? Connect with how you want to feel in 2025.
  • ? Choose a word that embodies that feeling.
  • ? Define your word to solidify its meaning.
  • ? Keep your word visible (on your desk, phone, etc.).
  • ? Create an actionable plan to live by your word.

? Bonus: Share your word with others for added accountability and inspiration!

Why Choose a Word of the Year? It’s more than a resolution—it’s a guiding intention to keep you motivated and aligned. Whether your word is courage, balance, or growth, this practice will help you create a meaningful and purpose-driven year.

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Word of the Year

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I believe wholeheartedly in the process of choosing a single word that becomes a thread to be woven throughout your life each year. This intention becomes part of you in thoughts, words and actions. This word of the year embodies your choices and actions.

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Renewal is not merely a return to what once was but a conscious awakening—a reimagining of one's purpose and connection to the world.

Word of the Year

For over 25 years I have chosen a word of the year. I do this not to set goals or resolutions, but to instead weave a thread into the tapestry of my life. The choices and thoughts that I make need to align with my word. In the yoga world we call intention a sankalpa.

Sankalpa is a Sanskrit term in yogic philosophy that refers to a heartfelt desire, a solemn vow, an intention, or a resolve to do something. It is similar to the English concept of a resolution, except that it comes from even deeper within and tends to be an affirmation.

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Choosing a word or sankalpa for your year gives you direction in which to lead your life. For 25 years I have chosen many different words and have taken action. I have worked on some great things over that time span and all of it has lead to some greatness! A few of my recent favorites have been: refinement, deliberate, bold, reverence, and limitless. My least favorites have been peace and equanimity as they were two of the hardest years of my life.

Word of the Year 2025–Renewal

2024 and all the physical challenges of the last decade cumulated with three hip surgeries. I am ready for a big shift in my life. To restore a freshness into my life much like we do as we renew our strength in sleep. I want to make new in how I self care, how I work, how I serve and how I love. In some sort of ways I feel regeneration is in the works.

To seek renewal is to embark on a deeply personal journey of rediscovery, shedding the weight of past burdens and embracing the boundless possibility of becoming whole again. It is a soulful act of nurturing the inner self, replenishing depleted wells of energy, faith, and hope. Renewal is not merely a return to what once was but a conscious awakening—a reimagining of one’s purpose and connection to the world. It is the quiet yet profound courage to step into the light after seasons of shadow, to reclaim joy, and to realign with the essence of who we are meant to be.

My ideas so far to finding renewal include:

  • Choosing quality over quantity as it relates to movement, friendships, hobbies and more.
  • Moving my habits to a more yin style and quiet space
  • Shifting my work from being so active and to more passive
  • Creating content that is meaningful and lasting

Reclaiming My Power is Key

Here is how I intend to do it:

  • Set Boundaries: Renewal often requires protecting your energy. Learn to say no without guilt.
  • Embrace Self-Acceptance: Let go of perfectionism and embrace the beauty of imperfection.
  • Make Daily Changes: Choose mindful activities rather than active activities when stressed.

Essential Oil Blend for Renewal

Each year crafting a custom blend to support my vision. Here is this year’s aroma blend to support my word of the year.

  • Basil: The Oil of Renewal. This essential oil supports a strengthened and renewed outlook to life.
  • Peppermint: The Oil of the Buoyant Heart. This oil supports optimism and rediscovering joy.
  • Red Mandarin: The Oil of Perspective. This oil helps to feel refreshed and joy in simple things.
  • Green Mandarin: The Oil of Potential. This oil gives feelings of wonder and hope.
  • Bergamot Mint: The Oil of a Revived Heart. This oil brings feelings of hope and openness.
  • Ravintsara: The Oil of Expansion. This oil helps to expand the mind and find flowing ideas.
  • Immersion Blend: The Blend of Renewal. This blend assists in a peaceful, renewed mind.
  • Rainbow Moonstone: The Stone of New Beginnings. A stone for new beginnings & inner growth.

Affirmations for 2025

Daily affirmations can reinforce my healing intentions. Here are a few I have chosen:

  • “I release the past and embrace renewal with open arms.”
  • “Healing is a journey, and I honor my progress every step of the way.”
  • “I am worthy of love, peace, and happiness.”
  • “My heart and mind are open to the beauty of new beginnings.”

What Will You Choose?

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Follow along with me this year as I take action on my intention and renew areas of my life!