It is not the beauty of a building you should look at; it’s the construction of the foundation that will stand the test of time. ~ David Allen Coe
This time of year is ideal for getting back into ourselves after a summer season of play, vacations, kids home, and way less structure. This is the time where we reclaim our sense of self and rediscover the aspects of ourselves that support us in our everyday life.
As you experience a more predictable schedule and life begins to resume some sort of normalcy, take a few minutes to consider the four walls, or four main roots of a tree, that represent your foundation. This is the scaffolding which supports all the other parts of our home, or tree, during times of turbulence.
Here are some ideas– faith, service, accountability, kindness, diligence, love, fulfillment, action, compassion, determination, optimism, etc.
You may know if you stop here often that I believe in the power of aroma to shift our chemical response in our brain. We can influence our state of arousal and our emotional state simply by smelling something. How cool is that?
Not sure where to start? Grab one of these blends, take 4-5 deep breaths, apply it to your spine and under your nose and then listen. You already know…now, you just need to listen.
By the way, check out the emotional benefits of these oils:
Douglas Fir.This one invites you to invoke your high wisdom and learn from the past experiences and people who may have crossed your path. This essential oil is perfect for turning inward in the season of more introspection.
Frankincense.Frankincense asks you to welcome in feelings of protection, wisdom, discernment, and a spiritual awakening. This sacred essential oil invites individuals to shed the lower vibration feelings that are often negative and draining. This truly brings our your own magnificence.
Ho Wood. This peaceful oil brings out a sense of calm and helps to quiet the mind. By clearing the mind of anxious thoughts or simply clutter, we can fine tune into the deepest parts of who we are. This helps us to live in alignment with our principles and aspects of our foundation.
Blue Tansy. This one is a powerful aroma that helps to bring out inspiration and the committed response of tacking action. This helps to be more purposeful and responsible, which is such a beautiful aspect to a solid constitution. Blue tansy welcomes in a sense of freedom and sense of walking towards your deepest dreams and desires.
Blue Chamomile.This sweet and delicate flower is commonly known as German chamomile and offers a beautiful blue hue to the oil. Like its counter part Roman Chamomile, this flower oil is the perfect choice for bringing out a peaceful and serene mental state. This brings out emotional harmony and illuminates the wisdom with your soul.
Spruce.This stable, grounded aroma brings out an enduring balanced outlook to life while also giving strength through your wisdom. When we soak in this aroma we are reminded of the rhythms and ancient wisdom the earth offers.
Cassia.This bold oil which a friend of cinnamon is warm and earthy as it invites you to feel courageous, strong, self-assured and confident in your authentic self. This brings an embracing warmth to the confident and meaningful connections in our life.
Petrified Wood Chips. It helps to create balance and offers a foundation from which to launch new goals or undertake a different path. This grounding stone helps to calm scattered energies and look closely at the essence of what guides our decisions.
These beautiful oils and solid gemstones will be a constant as your dive into the fall season of a slower pace, a calmer mind, and as you seek out the principles in which your life is sustained by. To learn more about the principles I have chosen for myself, check out this blog post.
You can purchase this blend here and it will soon arrive in your mailbox with lots of grounding love.
Holding on is believing that there’s only a past; letting go is knowing that there’s a future.
The Harvest
Hello there!
I hope that you are doing well and are finding ways to bring joy into your everyday life. I am hopeful that as we move into a new season we can settle into a sense of calm and peace. The shift to fall can sometimes move us from the chaos that summer sometimes brings to a more grounded way of being.
The Autumn Equinox is a time of letting go and also harvesting the good that is abundant in our lives while also 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.
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 they 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 have been recently thinking that it has been such a challenging time for me since my last major hip surgery. Through that process I have changed so much. I no longer am pushing my body in the ways I once did. Rather I am enjoying the pace that my body wants to go at. I enjoy slower walks and have learned a little bit about being at ease instead of extreme activity. Sure, sometimes I miss the hard push up a mountain or the thrill of kickboxing, but through these past months of recovery I have certainly learned about letting go. And that has been a good thing.
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.
Life is really good, friends.
Blessings, Stacie
Essential Oils & Wellness
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!
This ultra grounding blend is a fan favorite. It is all about being grounded and soaking up that forest floor aroma. The result is a calm mind and a super chill feeling. Plus, the petrified wood stones are soooooo pretty!
Cost: $22
Recipes & DIY
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 have one more batch of marigold body butter left from my summer growing and blending. Marigold’s are in the family of calendula and both support skin and inflammatory responses in the body. Plus it is luxurious. Let me know if you’d like a jar. $25
Peach Jam
Finally, I have PEACH JAM for sale. Let me know if you’d like a jar of this tasty treat. It pairs wonderfully with fresh sourdough bread, but let’s not get crazy, right? $5
Fall Diffuser Blends
I love the smell of fall and these diffuser blends which not just smell great, but your family will benefit from the healthy supports essential oils add when used aromatically.
YOGA
Online LIVE classes
Following my 30 Days of Yoga (you can find everyday on my Youtube Channel), I decided to offer at least one LIVE ONLINE class. This month I am offering a RESTORATIVE class on 9/18 at 6:30pm. You will simple need a quiet space, some pillows and this link!! The passcode is yoga.
My YouTube channel has continued to grow and you can find all kinds of videos there. Everything from chair yoga to restorative to traditional classes. Plus, you’ll find some bonus stuff, too!
This format is one of my most popular and loved! Just click on the link below and you’ll have access to the online class. Donations are appreciated. If you need samples of essential oils to fully enjoy the practice, just reach out to me.
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. Ask me more!
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.
Thank You
So many of you have been so supportive of me for over 17 years! I am so blessed that I can continue to share my passion and touch your life. It means a lot to me that you know that you are very important to me, and I am incredibly grateful that our paths have crossed. I believe that now more than ever, we need to recognize the people and meaningful connections that we all have.
As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
My favorite example of what Yoga really is comes from my first Yoga teacher training. We learned the Yoga principles make up very important aspects to the practice. The teacher shared that Yoga is best described as a bicycle wheel where only one of the spokes on the wheel has to do with the body (asana), and the rest of the spokes is how we show up in the world.
What are the Yamas?
The Yamas are best described as five guidelines or principles in which we relate to others and the world around us. Another spoke of the wheel (the Niyamas) relate to our own personal guidelines and relating to the Self. When we understand and apply these guidelines to our life we can begin to see we are truly living our Yoga.
Ahimsa
(non-violence). When I first began practicing Yoga I thought ahimsa meant I had to give up eating meat, which I did for a while. It is actually much more than that. Violence begins in our thoughts and goes outward to our actions, and our words. Violence can also relate to how we treat the Earth. Our actions have profound effects on others and the world, so living a non violent way can impact people as well as animals and plants.
Satya
(truth). Satya is truthfulness, but it’s more than just telling the truth. The word ‘sat’ literally translates as ‘true essence’ or ‘unchangeable’. One example of how living Satya exists is how we present ourselves to others and how we relate from the space of truth. For example, exaggerating facts to appear more extreme, or withholding facts to appear more pure, are acts that do not align with Satya. Also the thoughts about others and the stories we make up about others can relate to this Yama.
Asteya
(non stealing). We often think of stealing in the material sense, but this Yama is much more than that. To live asteya means we are mindful to not steal someone else’s grief by comparing it with our own grief. It also means that we do not steal someone’s celebration by becoming envious. Further, it is an honoring of one’s time and not “stealing” their resources to benefit us. Oh, and stealing their donut off their desk counts, too.
Brahmacharya
(moderation of the senses/right use of energy). In the ancient origins of Yoga this may have been interpreted as a form of celibacy, which no longer applies in our modern world of Yoga. Instead, this Yama actually can mean that we are aware of where we invest our energy. Another way to see this is directing our energy away from external desires and instead, towards finding peace and happiness within ourselves. Participating in drama and gossip is a form of energy that is not a useful place to invest in.
Aparigraha
(non-greed). This important Yama teaches us to take only what we need, keep only what serves us in the moment and to let go when the time is right. This can be in a literal sense as it relates to materialism but it can also lean towards a greediness of demands on someone else where expectations are high. Holding onto relationships, people, jobs, money and other areas can be a form of greed.
Reflecting on the Living the Yamas
We can learn that Yoga is much more than laying on the floor and creating shapes with our bodies. As we do, it is important to remember that while we are practicing the physical part of Yoga, we can infuse all of these Yamas into the time on the mat (or in a chair). For example, when we expect and demand that we have our “spot” in the yoga studio, or when we put too much focus on perfecting our headstand, or we push our bodies into pain we have just been harming, untruthful, greedy, and not using our energy appropriately.
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. 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.
Consider for yourself if you view Yoga as exercise? Is it? Is Yoga something you “do”? Or, is Yoga much more than exercise?
Big questions with a really simple answer. First of all, the majority of us do in fact come to a Yoga class looking for some sort of physical enhancement; to be more toned, to have greater flexibility, to be more coordinated, to support aches and pains naturally or a variety of other reasons. I get that. I did, too. When I first started practicing Yoga it was purely from the standpoint of exercise and my reasoning is that I wanted to be more flexible.
Then it happened. Not only did I gain flexibility physically but my mind and heart also became quite flexible in the process.
Is Yoga Exercise?
According to Medline, Yoga is a practice that connects the body, breath, and mind. It uses physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve overall health. Yoga was developed as a spiritual practice thousands of years ago. Today, most Westerners who do yoga do it for exercise or to reduce stress.
Was that the intent of Yoga when it was discovered?
The word ‘Yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘Yuj’, meaning ‘to join’ or ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite’. As per Yogic scriptures the practice of Yoga leads to the union of individual consciousness with that of the Universal Consciousness, indicating a perfect harmony between the mind and body.
Through learning about the 8 Limbs of Yoga we begin to see this is much more than a physical practice that our Western minds have adopted.
What are the 8 Limbs of Yoga?
YAMA – Restraints, moral disciplines or moral vows.
NIYAMA – Positive duties or observances.
ASANA – Posture of the body.
PRANAYAMA – Breathing Techniques.
PRATYAHARA – Sense withdrawal.
DHARANA – Focused Concentration.
DHYANA – Meditative Absorption.
SAMADHI – Bliss or Enlightenment.
You see, if the 8 limbs of Yoga were the spokes of a bicycle wheel, only one spoke would have anything to do with the physical body.
Why does learning about the other 7 limbs matter?
For some people exercise is all they want, and that is fine. I just am hesitant to call it Yoga. To me, Yoga is a lifestyle and a series of attitudes and principles that we embody to create wholeness in the mind, body and spirit. When this happens, we actually begin to influence the people around us in a more positive way. Way more positive than being able to hold a plank for three minutes or lift super heavy weights if you ask me. I would rather know that the way I am showing up in the world is bettering the people around me. We practice showing up on the mat, and apply it to our life off the mat.
When I was raising children, my oldest and youngest boys got to experience two very different childhoods as it relates to the influence Yoga had on me. As a result it also influenced them. My oldest son had more years of being influenced by a highly reactive, stressed, angry and overly emotional mom. My youngest on the other hand, had a longer period of his formative years with a present, calm and peaceful mom. While each son is their own personality and preferences, they do have a dynamically different outlook on life and I do attribute some of that to their primary caregiver (me) having gone through the transformative change that Yoga can bring to one’s life.
Can we just see Yoga as an exercise and still be ok?
Absolutely. 100%. Yes. I would just ask that if you choose to practice Yoga, you consider also learning about the other equally important limbs of the practice. You just might see how amazing it can be, beyond the body.
“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 year and they are all very happy! I am planning to soon make chokecherry jelly and peach jam this year and share with my neighbors! With my bounty of cucumbers I am also going to make some pickles, again. 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 returning 30 Days of Yogastarting August 1st and get it delivered right to your inbox!
Love and gratitude,
Stacie
PS. Have you subscribed to my podcast? Each Monday I drop a new episode and we cover just about anything and everything! Check it out!
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!
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 or aspiring 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!
I would love for ANYONE to consider tagging along to see what a day in my life in Assited Living is like. Just think–you may find a deeper calling to serve and be open to spending an hour or two a week a facility near YOU! Spending time with those in need simply requires a loving heart.
Wellness Education
This month I am also offering my wellness education through the platform of a beautiful freeeboos that you can keep for reference. Be sure to bookmark this as it are packed with information.
Looking for more? I have all seven chakras broken into lessons, a toxic free living guide, a basic essential oil guide and much more on my storefront. Check it out here!
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.
I am so blessed that I can continue to share my passion and touch your life. It means a lot to me that you know that you are very important to me, and I am incredibly grateful that our paths have crossed.
As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
A mother’s love is more beautiful than any fresh flower.
Mother’s Day is a great spring tradition to honor the people in your life who have nurtured and loved you. It is such a special treat to receive a handmade gift and I am thrilled to have put together a variety of my favorites things for the special mom’s in your life. These little gifts make the perfect gift to appreciate the hardworking givers in your life.
Gratitude Essential Oil Blend
$22
This perfectly crafted blend is my most popular mingling of aroma and gemstones. This wonderful scent is the perfect gift to show your thankfulness to the special momma in your life.
Siberian fir: breaking negative emotional and spiritual patterns,
Frankincense: raise awareness, shine your bright light
Grapefruit: appreciate who you are;
Wild Orange: abundance and bright future, gladness to the heart
Geranium: heart opening, realize security in what you do have
Clove: instills power, sense of protection, integrity
Amber chips; radiates laughter, vitality, and courage.
Aromatherapy Bath Salts
$7
These gorgeous tubes are the perfect end to a stressful day. The make amazing teacher gifts or special offerings for loved ones. Each tube is filled with epsom salt, lavender petals and soothing essential oils to bring a spa like experience for the lucky recipient. One tube will fill one or two baths.
Bath Fizzies
$20 for 10 Fizzies
There is nothing like sinking into a tub with a hot bubbly tub with fizzing bath bombs. If you know me well, it is my ultimate form of self-care. I have mastered the bath bomb and have found the perfect combination for a deep relaxation for the body. These smell amazing and are also so good for the skin and detoxing the body.
Glowing Face Serum
$35
This gorgeous face serum is my go to for glowing skin. This gorgeous blend includes rose hip oil, blue tansy, yarrow, rose, and geranium essential oils. I apply it in the evening after cleansing.
Body Butter
$25
This fan favorite is a popular gift for anyone! Handmade with natural shea butter and pure essential oils this creamy skin soothing butter is the perfect gift. Not only does this smell amazing but it is a completely natural and skin loving cream that makes the skin feel so soft.
Gift Certificates
Do you want to give the gift of goodness to your loved one? I have you covered! You can purchase a gift card from me and then your person and I can come up with exactly what they need! Reach out to me below to purchase!
To simplify the process of ordering, simply email me below (or you can text me) and tell me which items you would like and if you will be picking them up, or if you’d like me to ship them. I will email you back a confirmation and a total. You can venmo, Zelle, PayPal or good old fashioned cash.
So many of you have been so supportive of me during this unusual time in our lives. I am so blessed that I can continue to share my passion and touch your life. It means a lot to me that you know that you are very important to me, and I am incredibly grateful that our paths have crossed. I believe that now more than ever, we need to recognize the people and meaningful connections that we all have.
As always, it is my hope that you stay healthy and happy in your mind, body and spirit.
There are so many good Yoga books out there and most people who are serious about their practice, or who teach Yoga have quite a collection of books. Most Yoga teacher trainings also have a requirement of reading some books during the training but I have found as time goes on the collection grows into more personal choices.
These are the top ten books I believe anyone who practices or teaches Yoga needs to have on their bookshelf.
The Inspired Yoga Teacher. This gem of a book is a must for all people who love to practice, even if you aren’t a teacher. It is packed with great suggestions for how to take Yoga off the mat (or the chair) and live the principles and philosophies that make this discipline so good.
The Yoga Mind. This is the book that I believe will change your mind the most that Yoga is not just a physical practice, or worse and exercise. This will help you see that Yoga is a way of living and is suitable for ALL people.
Anatomy of the Spirit-The Seven Stages of Power and Healing. Another choice that is not per se a “Yoga” book but instead a book that can easily become a manual or guide for living your best life. This read will dive deep into parts of you that you may not even knew existed. The audio version is amazing, too.
The Practice is the Path. This book will help anyone with the mind-body connection that Yoga helps to encourage. This book will depend your spirituality and learn how the practice plays a critical part in the journey of the spirit.
Living the Sutras-A Guide to Yoga Wisdom beyond the Mat. Most books that attempt to make easy sense of the Sutras are still hard to apply to everyday life. This little book is the perfect tool for applying the Yoga principles to everyday life.
Living Your Yoga-Finding the Spiritual in Everyday Life. This book will stretche the meaning of yoga beyond its familiar poses and breathing techniques to include the events of daily life as ways to practice. A must for taking Yoga into every aspect of your life.
Wheels Of Life – A User’s Guide To The Chakra System. This in-depth book will help you understand the powerful energy that exists as part of every human being. Not only will you learn about yourself, you will be more aware others and develop a deeper understanding of differences.
Light on Life: The Yoga Journey to Wholeness, Inner Peace, and Ultimate Freedom. This book brings readers this new and more complete understanding of the yogic journey. In reading this you may learn how to integrate the different parts of the self (body, emotions, mind, and soul), the role that the yoga postures and how breathing techniques play in our search for wholeness.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
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. 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.
The spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs around March 20th or 21st each year when the tilt of the Earth’s axis is neither inclined away from nor towards the Sun, resulting in roughly equal lengths of day and night. This astronomical event signals the transition from shorter winter days to longer daylight hours as the Sun crosses the celestial equator from south to north.
During the spring equinox, both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience roughly equal amounts of daylight and darkness, with the Sun rising due east and setting due west. Culturally, the spring equinox has been celebrated in various ways across different societies, often symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and the start of agricultural activities.
I love to create some fun rituals of my own, or at least make a few changes to the everyday during this time of the year. A few of my favorite ways to celebrate the spring equinox include the following.
Spring Equinox Ideas:
Plant a garden. If space is limited you could easily use a few pots to still create the idea of growth and sustainability in small ways. Tomatoes and herbs are great small space harvests and are fairly easy to grow. If you have a larger garden space you can try growing some new vegetables to broaden your repertoire and bring new ideas into your culinary routine. I planted a variety of radishes this year to try pickling them!
Change up your Yoga practice. Move into standing poses such as Warrior I, Warrior II, and Triangle Pose. These poses help to build strength, stability, and connection to the earth while also opening up the body. Heart Openers like Camel Pose, Bridge Pose, or Wheel Pose invite openness and expansion into your practice. As you open your heart, visualize yourself welcoming new opportunities and possibilities. Balancing Poses such as Tree Pose, Eagle Pose, or Dancer Pose to cultivate stability and equilibrium. Focus on finding balance both physically and mentally, reflecting the balance of day and night during the equinox.
Use essential oils. For the spring equinox, you might want to consider using essential oils that evoke feelings of renewal, freshness, and balance. Here are some essential oils that can be great for celebrating the spring equinox: Lavender is calming and soothing, making it perfect for promoting relaxation and balance during the equinox transition. Lemon essential oil is refreshing and uplifting. Its citrus scent can help to energize and invigorate your space, symbolizing the fresh start of spring. Peppermint is known for its invigorating and cooling properties. It can help to awaken the senses and promote clarity of mind as you embrace the new season. Geranium essential oil is often associated with balance and harmony. Its floral aroma can help to create a sense of stability and equilibrium during the equinox.
Create a spiritual ritual. Engaging in spiritual practices or rituals during this time can deepen one’s spiritual connection or provide a sense of inner peace and harmony. For some individuals, the spring equinox holds spiritual significance as a time of balance between light and darkness, and as a symbol of spiritual awakening or enlightenment. Write down any negative thoughts, habits, or emotions that you wish to release with the passing of winter. Visualize these things leaving your life as you write them down.After writing, safely burn the paper (using a fireproof container) as a symbol of releasing these burdens. Or, light a candle or some incense to signify the beginning of your ritual. Then, say a prayer or invocation to invite in the energies of spring and any deities or spirits you wish to work with.
The spring equinox marks the beginning of spring, a season associated with new life, growth, and rejuvenation. Celebrating this event can serve as a symbolic reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the opportunity for personal renewal and growth. Observing the spring equinox can foster a deeper connection to the natural world. As daylight hours increase and temperatures rise, many people feel a renewed sense of vitality and appreciation for the beauty of the environment. The changing of seasons often prompts introspection and reflection. Celebrating the spring equinox can be an opportunity to reflect on personal goals, aspirations, and intentions for the coming months, much like the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. And finally, as spring brings new life and abundance, celebrating the equinox can be an expression of gratitude for the gifts of the natural world and a celebration of life’s abundance and beauty.
I knew early on that teaching yoga to unique populations was what my purpose was. I was certain that I wanted to bring yoga to people who would otherwise not be able to easily access it. Years ago I began by peddling my offerings into rehab centers and places elderly lived. I taught for many years with the National MS society. My adaptive yoga journey started at a local organization that offers adaptive sports to adults with varying disabilities. Teaching to this population, I found was definitely at home and found pure joy in the work.
I also have taught and continue to teach “typical” people in my studio and in the community. It fills a different place in my heart. I love bringing some of my special experiences with my other students into the space of a regular ol’ yoga class. When I was actively sharing yoga in the hospice world, I had many lessons that were gifted to me from those who were dying and I embedded them into my yoga classes.
Why The Pillars?
For nearly two decades I have logged and stored away many of those special experiences and continue to pull from them often. I also have grown tremendously as a yoga teacher. In that time, I developed techniques that have success when sharing yoga with different populations. I have crafted this technique into a method I call the Four Pillars to Adaptive Yoga. Really, these pillars should be in every yoga class, but a definite must for the adaptive yoga world.
Every community across the globe has people with disabilities who need adaptive yoga and mindfulness. They need connection, movement, breath and gratitude. It is my mission that as many people as possible will have access to yoga, but I need your help!
If you are a yoga teacher, a mental health worker, an occupational therapist, a counselor, a certified nurse’s aid, or a compassionate person YOU can do this!
The Guide to Adaptive Yoga
I created a guide to get you started and I have TONS of resources and experiences if it sparks something in you that wants more. I will walk you through how to market yourself, how to invoice, how to grow your offerings and how to bring YOU into your community to serve others.
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. 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 order to grow we must first remove what it is in the way.
The Eight Limbs of Yoga–the Niyamas
Patanjali, creator of the Yoga Sutra, wrote about how the practice of Yoga contains 8 “limbs”. These principles of Yoga have become the map for which we direct our lives. 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.
The principle 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.
What is the principle called Suacha?
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 is 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. 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 old stuff in our and heads and hearts? Feelings like bitterness, old hurts, regrets, shame and even the past. Without all that “stuff” in the way, it is likely you may have some amazing growth!
This is a pivotal time in our own responsibility to ask ourselves hard questions.
Ask your self this:
What is seeking to be released or cleansed from the very essence of our beings? What mental and emotional patterns are no longer serving us? Is there something 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 the principle of 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
To purify the body, Practice yoga for 30+ minutes 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
The principle 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? 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.
This is not a one time thing or even a springtime thing. Suacha, like Yoga, is a way of being.
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. 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.
