Yoga

August Inspiration

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Summer afternoon to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.

—Henry James

Have any of you noticed how much nature reminds us of the bounty that is available? The constantly changing and growing plants tell me that the same extraordinary potential exists within me. I see how the animals gather and forage what they need and this reminds me that everything I need is right here. I am grateful for the rain and the amazing colors that surround me. My garden is a perfect example to me of “more than enough”– the green beans and cucumbers this year are starting to really take shape and I moved the pumpkin patch to a new location this and they are all very happy! I am planning to make my second batch of chokecherry jelly and pickles again this year and share with my neighbors! You can find my recipes at the bottom under the DIY section.

For years I have focused on creating a more abundant life and the ways in which that has all happened marvels me on a daily basis. Some may think of abundance as simply financial bounty, but I have come to see it as so much more.

For me abundance shows up in the random acts of kindness I receive, the support I consistently have for my classes, my friendships, the magnitude of joy in my life, colors everywhere, laughter that fills a room, a belly full of food, and enough money for me to live happily and generously.

As we come into the long, and usually hot month of August, I encourage you to look for the bounty in your life….things like lemonade, lazy afternoons in the hammock, delicious ice cream, sunflowers, sweet watermelon, a basket of veggies and much more.

I have lots of fun classes this month and chances to connect with yourself and with others. To me, that is just another great form of abundance. Be sure to check out my 30 Days of Yoga starting August 1st and delivered right to your inbox!

Love and gratitude,

Stacie

30 Days of Yoga!

Did you hear I am embarking on 30 days of Yoga this month?? Yep! Each and every day you will get a fresh video to practice in your own time! There is still time to sign up!

Watch this short video to learn more!

Full Moon Yoga in the Park

Join me in person for a celebration of the summer full moon! August 30th at 7pm! We will enjoy a gentle lunar practice that includes essential oils to celebrate the release associated with the full moon.

Your registration includes a custom full moon blend of oils with crystals. You MUST register or pre-pay for this event. (venmo, Zelle, PayPal are options…message me if you’d like to save a spot and pay this way).

cost: $25

Essential Yoga–ONLINE

This gorgeous practice can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home! Message me if you’d like samples of the essential oils used in this session.

Essential Yoga–BALANCE

Online Yoga and Pilates

Wanting to have access to yoga and pilates that fits in your schedule? You can access my entire library of videos on my website. I haven’t created any new content but my website is full of chair yoga, sensation and intuition based guided gentle yoga, pilates and meditation all on a donation basis.

Wellness Coaching

I am currently accepting two new wellness coaching clients. This program can be done virtually or in-person and includes a personalized plan, mindset coaching, nutrition, mindfulness, accountability, weekly coaching and more. Reach out to me if you are ready to focus on YOU.

Yoga Teacher Mentoring

Are you a current yoga teacher? I am offering a yoga teacher mentoring program to help yoga teachers learn how to modify and teach to those with different abilities. This program includes shadowing me in my assisted living settings and seeing hands-on the magic that happens! Ask me more!

Wellness Education

This month I am also offering my wellness education through the platform of beautiful freeebooks that you can keep for reference. Be sure to bookmark these as they are packed with information.

Essential Oil Basics

Essential Oils for Every Age

Toxic Free Living

Understanding the Chakras

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, 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.

Get Started

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!

Free Wellness Consult

Do you know someone who could benefit from my services? I offer an amazing referral program and would love to help your loved ones find health.

Referral Program

Promotions

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!

Recipes

Essential Oil Ice Cubes

Honey Ginger Lemonade

Garden Beet Caprese

Kiwi Strawberry Splash Smoothie

Easy Chokecherry Jelly

Easy Pickles

Summer DIY Ideas

Soothing After Sun Spray

Bug Bite Relief

DIY Bubbles

The Benefits of Being Outdoors

Fresh air, sun, trees. Nature is a magical thing, and according to some studies, can have strong healing powers — such as improving mood, boosting the immune system and increasing anti-cancer proteins.

Being outdoors in nature can be healing and beneficial for the body and mind. Whether at the beach, forest or in a neighborhood park, nature offers a calming effect. And when we combine nature with physical activity, it can help fight depression and anxiety.

Being outdoors can improve your health and well-being in the following five ways:

  • Lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress — Spending time walking among or simply looking at trees lowers blood pressure and reduces the stress-related hormones cortisol and adrenaline.
  • Improves mood — Researchers have found that nature simply makes us happy. Anxiety, depression and anger are notably decreased after spending time outdoors.
  • Improves focus — Studies show that both adults and children who have difficulties focusing or controlling impulses are better able to concentrate after being in nature. The natural world allows our brains to take a break from all that mentally drains us, and even reduces symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Helps us heal quicker — Illness and surgery can be painful and frightening, which can increase stress and slow healing. However, researchers discovered that patients who spent time outdoors during their recovery required fewer painkillers, had fewer complications and experienced shorter hospital stays.
  • Supports graceful aging — According to a study in the Journal of Aging and Health, adults over 70 who spent time outdoors experienced fewer sleep difficulties, complained less about aches and pains, and enjoyed improved mobility and ability to perform daily activities.

Have a beautiful month of abundance in all forms! xo, Stacie

About Stacie

Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes. Stacie offers adaptive yoga in a variety of assisted living settings in Colorado Springs and Denver Colorado.

Are You Ready

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This week I begin a 30 day accountability to myself and to many others who are ready to get back on the mat (or in the chair). I can’t wait to explore so many ways to get back into a daily practice, even if it is for just 15 minutes.

My hope is to show that it can be done and it doesn’t have to be a big deal; in a studio, with perfect clothes, perfect music and perfect bodies. It can be done anywhere, anytime for anyBODY.

Take just a few minutes to check out my mission and why I am ready for August 1st!

Follow me for more goodness!

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Being a Yoga Teacher

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I used to think that being a full time Yoga teacher would be the ultimate dream career. In many ways it has been, but the things I thought would be amazing turned out to be less important and there are a few things that have been really challenging and that has made the career a pretty tough one. Believe me it is not all comfy clothes and peaceful vibes.

Here are a few things I have learned in my nearly two decades of teaching:

1. Teaching Yoga is lonely.

I have been teaching Yoga for over 17 years and 99% of that time has been as a solo teacher out in the great big world all on my own. I taught at a gym studio briefly where I would occasionally pass by another fellow teacher. The rare team/staff meeting lended itself to some resemblance of a community, but that is it. When I left my j.o.b. to strike out and become a full-time Yoga teacher, the thing that hit me the hardest was how lonely it is. There are no weekly team meetings to bounce ideas off of a colleague. No lunches together to process tough situations. There is definitely no happy hours to celebrate successes. Instead, I sit in my car all alone feeling all the feels of what I witness and celebrating all by myself the “wins” of the day or week. There are no birthday lunches or holiday gatherings and there is absolutely nobody to collaborate with. Most days I wish more than anything I had someone who I could talk to that didn’t just say “wow that is so amazing”. Or hearing “what a difference you are making in the world”. Instead I’d love to be able to ask questions, give me feedback and really help me grow as a teacher, and a human being. I am making a difference and I do think it is all amazing, but I need collaborating and honest conversations about the work and the clients I serve. I need someone to hold me to the line when I need it. I am trying to find a community of teachers to collaborate with but it is tough. Sadly, the Yoga world is so competitive and I am finding that someone with a YTT piece of paper assumes they know it all and sharing ideas is not something of interest to most.

2. You are also a business manager and marketing guru.

Students don’t just fall into your lap. You have to market yourself and hustle if you want this to be your main focus in your work life. I spend on average 2-3 hours per day marketing my classes. My time is reaching out to students, and communicating with agencies. I do all of my own invoicing and accounting. I had to learn all of this on my own through trial and error. You might learn a few things in Yoga Teacher Training about running a business. It isn’t until you really step into teaching that you will begin figuring out your business name/model or how to get your name out there. You have to figure out what works for you in your location. Social media is a great tool, but not your only option. Learning how to do this is tough unless you have a marketing background. You will likely be doing do this all on your own.

3. Wearing Yoga clothes everyday isn’t all that great.

Okay this might be a silly point to make point but there is some truth in it. I mean, yes, it is nice to be comfortable, but there is a limit to feeling like a slob seven days a week. I long to wear regular clothes. I look so forward to slipping on a dress or a pair of tights jeans on a day off or out for the evening. This may seem like a silly thing to everyday people but I am shocked at how many people tell me how lucky I am because I get to wear Yoga clothes everyday. I thought so too until I realized it isn’t all that great.

4. Being “on” and inspiring everyday can be exhausting.

I give myself so much more grace on this than I did when I first began teaching. I thought I had to have the perfect theme and say every word precisely. I still hold myself to a very high standard when it comes to being prepared for my classes. I continue to teach topics that people can use to improve their lives (off the mat or chair), and I want to also challenge myself to grow right along side my students. I realize somedays are going to be a little off. Whether I had a horrible commute, am living with a lot of pain, or simply just don’t feel it on a certain day I still have to deliver.

5. The teacher teaches what the teacher need to learn.

I have learned over the years to go there with your students. This includes my students with TBI and dementia, or my everyday able bodied students. By go there I mean be with them, sit with them, feel with them, laugh with them, receive with them. Be willing to learn from them, be humbled in yourself and you will be just fine. Be open to learning about yourself through the process of teaching and you will not only inspire others but you will grow exponentially as a teacher and a person. The more you teach a hard topic (for me this can be something like acceptance), the more you embrace it. Be willing to learn and never think that you know everything. Even if you can speak fluent sanskrit and can translate all the sutras. To me, a great teacher is one willing to learn alongside the student.

I wouldn’t change a thing when it comes to what I have chosen to do with this special life. I am grateful every single day that I get to serve. Before each class, as I enter through the threshold of a doorway, I say this, “give me the words and show me the way”.

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.

30 Days of Yoga Together

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They say it takes twenty one days to create a new habit. I am not sure who “they” are but it seems like a logical and probably pretty true statement. Years ago when I had my great wake up and decided that I needed major changes in my life, I wanted the results to happen immediately but was kindly reminded by a friend that for as long as it took to get unhealthy, it would take that long to get healthy. And, it really did.

What began for me as a weight loss program became a life changing experience that altered the path that I was on and opened hundreds of doors for me. I not only lost the 80+ pounds and created many healthy habits I also discovered a holistic approach to living and an incredibly grateful heart.

One of the biggest game changers came by learning the beautiful practice of Yoga. After a few years of practicing I became a Yoga teacher and sixteen years later, here I am. I teach many classes a week but have honestly lost much of my personal practice. I am like anyone else and make a million excuses as to why I don’t “have the time” to unroll my mat or pull up a chair. I decided it is time for that to change!

Starting August 1st I am inviting anyone to join me in sharing accountability to practice Yoga consistently(again). Each day I will send out a 15-30 minute Yoga gentle session directly to your inbox that you can do on your own time and not have to worry about logging in at a certain time. Knowing that I have people like you counting on me to get on the mat, I am hoping to cultivate that glorious habit of practicing Yoga consistently again. If you need help creating a home practice time and space, check out this blog post.

Will you join me in this habit creating Yoga accountability month? It is simple to sign up!

Follow me for more goodness!

About Stacie

Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is an E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes.

In addition to teaching classes at a variety of local centers and health clubs, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.

July Inspiration

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“The beginning of freedom is the realization that you are not “the thinker.” You realize that all the things that truly matter – beauty, love, creativity, joy, inner peace – arise from beyond the mind. You begin to awaken.”

— Eckhart Tolle

Summer is in full swing! I hope that you are all enjoying the season of growth! The warm days, lemonade, watermelon and summer activities are happening! My garden is flourishing and I love to see the changes that each day offers! All the rain we have been getting is making my veggies super happy. I had a big lesson last month about the impatience I was showing toward the seeds I had planted–even so much that I was convinced a squirrel stole them when in fact, they grow on their own time, not mine. This year I ventured into growing some other things like Brussel sprouts, edamame, and broccoli along with the usual garden varieties of squash, peppers, tomatoes and lots of green beans.

It may surprise you to learn this about me, but I am a hustler and find joy in hard work. (sarcasm). Despite my hard work schedule, I have come to realize that choosing time to fill up my own cup will only bring more value to my work. I have been focusing on carving out time each day to make sure I get a walk (or two) in, that I enjoy time on my patio with a popsicle, or time on my bike, and that I am pausing each day to take in more of LIFE around me. I believe that personal growth is one of the most empowering things we can do. I hope you’ll consider joining me in some personal growth and balance.

I have a plenty of fun classes scheduled this month and I am excited to continue Monday Evening Yoga in my studio, as well as yoga in the park. I also have a couple sunset Yoga classes to celebrate the warm evenings.

As always, I am here for consultation and questions related to yoga, health, essential oils and living a mindful life.

Celebrate you, your life and enjoy the summer days!

Much love,

Stacie

Read this lovely blog post about a lesson I learned last year about what freedom really is.

Yoga

YOGA IN THE PARK

Join me for Yoga in the park two Saturdays at 9am (7/15, 7/22) at Jackson Elementary Park (1111 Holland Park Blvd) for some sunny yoga in the park. Cost: suggested donation $10-15

Can’t make Saturday mornings? How about Sunset Yoga? Join me in the same park 730pm-830pm July 12th and July 26th. (weather permitting). Cost: suggested donation $15-20

IN STUDIO YOGA

Do you prefer to practice inside and in a more intimate space? My studio classes are Monday evening Slow Flow Yoga at 515pm. Please register below by a simple email to me with the dates you’d like a spot—they will up fast!

Register for July In-Studio Classes

ONLINE YOGA & PILATES

My online access classes are and always will be donation based. I am believer in making my classes accessible to anyone, regardless of ability, or income. However on a much deeper level, this means I trust that those who can pay, will. And those that truly cannot, will still be able to practice. You can learn more about donation yoga by reading my blog post.

Enjoy this sampling of what you’ll receive when you choose to access my videos. You can choose between yoga, chair yoga, pilates and mediation, or choose them all!

Online Yoga and Pilates

Essential Yoga–FREEDOM

If you missed the Essential Yoga in June, I am excited to offer it again in July, but this time it is recorded and ready for you to view at your convenience. Just click on the link below and you’ll have access to the online class. Donations are appreciated.

Essential Yoga–Freedom

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!

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, to pain management, energy, sleep, mood and much more. We have been waiting for a long time for the in-depth product developers to perfect their natural, mineral based sunscreen and the wait does not disappoint!

Did you know you can create you own bundle of oils, cleaners, skin care and now sunscreen and the wholesale pricing fee ($35) is waived! How awesome is that? You’ll get wholesale pricing just like me for an entire year and there is never a requirement to keep buying (though I know you’ll find lots of great things!)

Once you get started 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 create the perfect options for your needs.

Get Started

I offer FREE wellness consultations to talk about your goals and desire for a healthier, mind, body and spirit ANYTIME whether you are an oil user or not. Together we will create a personalized plan. Schedule yours today!

Free Wellness Consult

This month’s special and unique essential oil and gemstone blend features some earthy and mellow aromas to open the space in yourself to find that feeling of FREEDOM from all the stress being human can bring. It is delicious and smells amazing. It’s also rich in color and beauty. You can pick one up here.

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!

A few of my favorite summer recipes are listed below.

Raspberry Limeade

Lemon and Orange Granitas

Raspberry Smoothie Bowl

Tropical Dream Smoothie

Wild Orange Vanilla Popsicle

Lavender Blueberry Shake

French Cucumber Salad

The Benefits of Play

Summer is a great time to make time for play. In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing. When we carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well.

Playing with your romantic partner, friends, co-workers, pets, and children is a sure (and fun) way to fuel your imagination, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and emotional well-being. Adult play is a time to forget about work and commitments, and to be social in an unstructured, creative way.

Play helps:

  • Relieve stress. Play is fun and can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
  • Improve brain function. Playing chess, completing puzzles, or pursuing other fun activities that challenge the brain can help prevent memory problems and improve brain function. The social interaction of playing with family and friends can also help ward off stress and depression.
  • Stimulate the mind and boost creativity. Young children often learn best when they are playing—a principle that applies to adults, as well. You’ll learn a new task better when it’s fun and you’re in a relaxed and playful mood. Play can also stimulate your imagination, helping you adapt and solve problems.
  • Improve relationships and your connection to others. Sharing laughter and fun can foster empathy, compassion, trust, and intimacy with others. Play doesn’t have to include a specific activity; it can also be a state of mind. Developing a playful nature can help you loosen up in stressful situations, break the ice with strangers, make new friends, and form new business relationships.
  • Keep you feeling young and energetic. In the words of George Bernard Shaw, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” Play can boost your energy and vitality and even improve your resistance to disease, helping you function at your best.

Go find a playground and swing awhile or shoot some hoops with a friend. You’ll be surprised what an afternoon of play can do for you mind, body and spirit.

Thank You

So many of you have been so supportive of me over the 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.

Much love and light to you!

xo, Stacie

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Embracing Wisdom Wellness Group

Embracing Spirit Yoga

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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 E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes.

In addition to teaching classes at a variety of local centers and health clubs, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.

Mental Health Benefits of Yoga

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Yoga’s mind-body basic premise seeks relaxation through breathing and meditation combined with stretching and strengthening poses. With its emphasis on breathing practices and medita­tion—both of which help calm and center the mind— it’s hardly surprising that yoga also brings mental benefits, such as reduced anxiety and depression.

Yoga has been shown to lower stress hormones in our bodies while simultaneously increasing beneficial brain chemicals like endorphins and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). These feel-good chemicals help decrease anxiety and improve mood. Yoga can help lower our fight, flight or freeze response by activating our parasympathetic nervous system and lowering negative emotions like depression, anxiety and anger. Research also shows that yoga and meditation may improve executive functions, such as reasoning, decision making, memory, learning, reac­tion time, and accuracy on tests of mental acuity. Meditation also reduces activity in the limbic system—the part of the brain dedicated to emotions. As your emotional reac­tivity diminishes, you have a more tempered response when faced with stressful situations.

Another wonderful thing about yoga is the invitation to accept yourself and your body just as you are today. This is the mindfulness aspect of yoga — simply appreciating your body for the things that it can do right now in the present moment. In our classes we are constantly adapting to the needs of our mind and our body at that given moment and the focus is not always on becoming more flexible in our body. Learning to be flexible in the mind can help us all handle the challenges that our daily life may face.

Breathe. Move. Connect. Gratitude. That is the foundation of the practice and with a steady consistency you will soon see the benefits. Just 15 minutes a day is enough to reap the many benefits that a Yoga practice can offer, whether it is on the mat or in a chair.

Follow me for more goodness!

With over fourteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Watch Your Thoughts

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This week I have been teaching my Yoga classes around this quote—

Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.

Bring your hands to your heart center (thought), open your hands to a flower mudra (that becomes the words), raise your hands above head (that becomes the actions), opens your arms wide (that becomes the habits), raise your arms above head (that becomes character), lower your hands back to heart center (that becomes destiny) … and it all returns to the thought (seed).

Try that with a mindful breath a few times. And again. Breathe and move with the intent that a thought becomes a word, a word becomes an action, an action becomes a habit, a habit becomes your character, your character becomes your destiny.

For the students with paralysis they can either move their working side or I can ask to move their body with them. The students with dementia enjoy the slow movements and repetition. By the end of the class many can repeat the quote. One of the students in the group who lives with a traumatic brain injury smiled and said, “I like that. I like how that feels”.

That is Yoga.

We also talked about within all of the “doing” how do we want to BE ? (Seed/thought), then our words and actions follow. Taking Yoga into life is my passion.

Today in my doing, I am choosing to BE present.

Follow me for more goodness!

Self Study

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The term Svadhyaya literally means ‘one’s own reading’ or ‘self-study’. It is the fourth Niyama of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and has the potential to deepen our yoga practice way beyond the mat, or in the case of many of my students the chair.

The word itself is made up of Sva, meaning own, self, or the human soul, and Adhyaya, meaning lesson, lecture, or reading, and can imply the practice of studying scriptures, as well as a practice of studying the Self.

And the Self I am speaking of is the divine Self, the true Self, not the labels and attachments we have about who we think we are, or the ego. When we listen to the ego, we often do things that don’t always align with our true beliefs, values or intuition. The ‘I’ or small ‘self’ is mostly concerned with survival, which usually entails getting what it wants in all situations, and proving it is indeed ‘the best’. The small self judges, criticizes, fears, conditions, doubts and is essentially the cause of the chitta vrittis, or ‘fluctuations of the mind’. That ol’ monkey mind that constantly floods our thoughts.

By paying attention to, or ‘studying’ our ‘self’, we become more aware of the things we do that harm us, and also those which serve us and bring us closer to that process of ‘yoking’ or ‘uniting’ with the true Self. The ultimate purpose in Yoga is the yoke or find union.

So many of my students lost who they identified with prior to their accident or diagnosis. The job titles, letters after their signature that represented their years of schooling, the size of their bank account, their successes, etc. These amazing people have been forced into deep self study, and I am in constant awe as they step fully into the Self. The willingness to look at their behaviors and thoughts are outstanding and inspiring. Their courage invites me to do the same.

Self Study requires a willingness to read the some of the ancient texts of Yoga that lead us towards a direction to the Self. We do the work, but the texts are a roadmap. The Yoga Sutras are the framework in which we actually live yoga off the mat or outside of the chair.

Studying our habits on the yoga mat (or chair) can go a long way towards recognizing our habits outside of the physical practice. The way in which we practice yoga is actually very reflective of the way we practice life…. and a person’s physical yoga practice often reveals a lot more about them than they may think.

When we’re on the mat or in our chair there’s nowhere else to go and hide behind. The daily distractions of phones, chores, emails, and TV are no longer there to take our minds away from ourselves. We have the chance to ask and then listen.

We also actually have to pay attention…. This can be a little intimidating at first, and a yoga practice can sometimes reveal more about where our problems are rather than how perfect we are – which as we know, is very good for destroying the ego.

In a Yoga session it is imperative to ask yourself where am I holding tension? The jaw, forehead, neck, shoulders and upper back are common places we tend to store our fears and worries. Ask yourself why this tension might be present, and how often does it arise during your practice? How often does a negative commentary about your abilities (or lack of) enter your mind? How many times do you compare or compete with who you think you should be? Where does your mind go in an attempt to distract the sensation of breath and body?

Watch your thoughts, they become words; watch your words, they become actions; watch your actions, they become habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.

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Svadhyaya in the sense of studying our selves in daily life though, requires us to really take our yoga practice off the mat or out of the chair.

Knowing what we’re doing in each moment requires us to pay attention, but asking the question “why am I doing this?” requires us to be aware and fully present, which is ‘paying attention’ on a whole other level. Questioning our actions is something we may often avoid, as it is usually a catalyst for change, and as humans we don’t often like change. We prefer the static way of predictability in our daily lives so much that even changing the slightest thing can cause a ripple effect of angst.

I encourage students to practice this willingness by not always choosing the same spot to set up their mat or chair. I offer movements that are not predictable and not always a traditional way of teaching. We may turn to the rear of the mat rather than face the front to actually practice doing something that isn’t the same old routine. For my adaptive yoga students I am constantly challenging them with small changes as it increasing mental resilience and flexibility of the mind and shows them that the minor emotional deregulation in the safety of a Yoga class actually builds confidence that they can in fact handle changes and apply them to their life in the community which is constantly changing.

I often say to students we practice here what we will apply there.

The practice of taking a proverbial step back and observing and questioning our actions can eventually allow us to disentangle ourselves from those aspects of our lives that are harmful to our wellbeing.

Observe yourself as though you were watching someone else; observe the way you speak to friends and family, the way you react when plans change, the way you hold yourself when walking or sitting, or even just the way in which you get dressed each morning… it all tells the story of who and how we are in this moment.

The practice of svadhyaya requires satya (honesty) in order to view ourselves from an honest standpoint, tapas (discipline) – because taking an honest look at ourselves isn’t always something we like doing…. And ahimsa (non violence) which reminds us to look at ourselves without judgement or criticism.

That is the beauty of self study. A peek inside of ourselves at the Self level and then polishing off the smudges that take away our light. Ideally this study happens both in a practice and in every moment of our lives. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to be a better version of themselves each day?

The first step is looking inward and removing all the things you think you are and looking at Truth. From there we see the habits, the patterns, the nonsense and we gracefully remove the things that are getting in the way of the true Self.

Feel like taking a deep dive into your self by practicing some Svadhyaya?

Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the Self”

The Bhagavad Gita

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. Stacie is currently contracted across the country in a variety of residential programs for adults with traumatic brain injuries and other disabilities.

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is a E-RYT 500 hour Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes. In addition to teaching classes in her studio and in the community, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.

June Inspiration

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“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.”

Roy T. Bennett

Happy June! I hope that you are welcoming in the changing season and whatever joy that brings into your world. My backyard is looking fabulous and I am loving all the outdoor time. I am also loving my vegetable garden and look forward to a bounty of harvest this year. I am all planted and now the practice of patience begins. For me, I tend to struggle with the process of patience so this is a really good thing for me.

Last year, I challenged myself to do a random act of service DAILY for the entire month of June. It was such a wonderful experience that I decided this spring to give random people packets of flower seeds. What a joyful thing that was to see people smile! I want to continue to sprinkle goodness and inspiration into the lives of others this month. I believe small acts of goodness can have a powerful impact on the world, little by little. I crafted a gorgeous blend of essential oils, crystals and dried flowers that I have named INSPIRE that includes eucalyptus, cardamom, peppermint, ravensara, cinnamon, ginger, clove, jasmine, citrine quartz and calendula flower. It is amazing and I cannot wait to randomly gift someone with it.

We are half way through the year and it is a great time to check in with your intention you set way back in January. I chose to bring vulnerability into my life. It has been an interesting process for me and I have been challenged with many opportunities to be vulnerable. Opening myself up a little more has been difficult as I tend to be incredibly private and low-key about the emotional side of myself. I have had several medical things pop up this year that offered me some lessons around being vulnerable. I have also had some new work opportunities and have had to navigate that bravely. It is all good, but I think I am good and could use a little break from being vulnerable.

If your intention this year was to ramp up your health, watch for a great series that I will be offering in July that will take us back to the basics of health and wellness in all areas of our life. This will include information on mindfulness, taking control of our choices, yoga and meditation, nutrition, getting brave, and so much more. I also offer wellness consultations to get a plan together for you!

I began an online forum for yoga teachers to learn more about how to take yoga into assisted living settings and successfully offer the practice to those with neurological conditions. This has been a great outlet for me to share more about my work and hopefully inspire others to take that leap and offer it in their communities. If you are a yoga teacher, social worker or mental health worker or know someone who is, pass along this to them.

Enjoy this new month and all the growth that June brings. Take lots of walks, bike rides, or sit for hours on a porch swing and soak in the summer air. And of course find ways to INSPIRE others.

xo, Stacie

About Stacie

Stacie believes that it is her life purpose to share the gift of Yoga with anyone who is willing to say yes. In addition to raising a family and being an advocate for those with disabilities, Stacie is founder of Embracing Spirit Yoga which specializes in bringing adaptive Yoga into community centers and rehabilitation clinics. Bringing her depth of compassion to the mat–or the chair–she offers students the opportunity to grow as an individual in all aspects of their life.

With over sixteen years experience, Stacie Wyatt is an E-500 RYT with Yoga Alliance–, Life Wellness Coach, Senior YogaFit Instructor, Mind/Body Personal trainer, Stress Reduction and Meditation Instructor, Pilates Instructor, and Barre Instructor. Stacie is also certified in Integrative Movement Therapy™and is also a believer in the power and application of essential oils for health and wellness and proudly shares doTERRA essential oils.

Stacie brings her personal life experience of raising a daughter with a disability and over 12 years working in special education to her everyday Yoga classes.

In addition to teaching classes at a variety of local centers and health clubs, Stacie also continues to offer Yoga and Wellness coaching individually to those seeking private sessions.

Purchase this Blend

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What is Your Intention?

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As I have opened myself up in my quest for vulnerability this year and to take something I am passionate about and share it more openly in my adaptive yoga teacher mentoring program, I am asked to look at what I do through a different lens and be open to understanding and learning, while also being confident in myself and what I know to be effective.

Since yoga truly is a practice for daily life and not the ability to touch our toes, I find myself curious how other yoga teachers and/or practitioners view intention. Is having an intention and a plan for the class the same?

For everyone else, is an intention for your day the same as your plan for the day? I don’t think so. I believe we set an intention in our day, or our teaching (example to be present) and our plan may need to adjust according to what shows up in the day or in the yoga session.

I am fairly clear on my intention within a general sense when I am teaching yoga, however we all know that “reading the room” is key. This ability to switch gears in a yoga class is also helpful in life because let’s face it, how many times do we have a plan and we need to change it suddenly. Having this emotional resiliency and ability to be flexible in our minds is a useful tool for everyone.

Here is where my vulnerability was poked yesterday. I had someone observe me yesterday in one of my houses and she asked me afterwards something along the lines of is that all they ever “do” in class and could they “do” more? I knew when she said that she was referring to “doing” more of the physical stuff of yoga.

Hmmm….we chatted about it and as I reflected on it throughout the day I realized that not only have I overcome insecurities about myself, I have also found that the foundation in myself and my work is incredibly strong. This was not always the way I felt and it has taken me polishing myself over the years to remove the doubts and fears and step into being vulnerable enough to share what I do with others in a very real sense. This also allows an opening for me to learn and continue to polish.

This is my truth–When I enter a group home or assisted living setting to share yoga, I have an intention which is to always value them and see them.

As we entering the house, my plan for class had to shift once I was there a few minutes and we finished the check in.  I ALWAYS do a check in and this is so important to what I believe is a great method that I have developed over time.  In the check-in they get to answer how is their mind, body and spirit. This is something I believe we ALL need to do on a daily basis because it helps us to pause, assess ourselves so we know what we need.  By answering these questions in a simply one or two word answer, it also opens the door for vulnerability, connection, empathy and much more.

The group on this day had just three students. The most able bodied student was out and the three that gathered in the living room included one who is partially paralyzed with no movement in left arm and minimal in left leg, one who suffers from severe PTSD and pain, and one who has very little motor control and incredible low self esteem as a result. This is a group who are working very hard on acceptance, grief and how to integrate themselves into their current lives following their injuries.

During the check in I learned that one student was tired but good, and another answered like this:  mind-broken, body-broken, spirit-more broken. The tired student had a hard time sitting up straight and suffers from neck and back pain, so using the soft couch for support was where he was at.  The student who felt he was broken has very little control of his body and the moment he feels a sense of failure, he quits. His tremors and lack of coordination is embarrassing to him and if he struggles, he 99% of the time will stop movement and just listen. The one who is partially paralyzed needs hand over hand support for lifting his arm and leg.

Did I need to switch gears? Heck yes.

Why? Because my intention is to value them and to see them.

I saw that they were struggling physically and my sense was that they needed the connection and opportunity to be seen more than they they needed to be challenged physically or “do” more.  In my mind they were “doing” a lot by engaging, talking, sharing openly, and being present. For these guys, trust is HUGE and they chose to sit around the living and participate.

If I kept my class plan and/or asked them to do something new/hard/unfamiliar it is likely on this particular day, it would have caused them to bail. Since my intention is in valuing them, by adjusting my plan and giving them space to share and move easily in their bodies, they were able to feel successful in a world where they have little success. This touches on their past trauma, their present challenges and how connection and being seen can fuel confidence in them. 

Yes, we did some movement and we did some breathing. We learned a simple sequence that is heart based and tapped into a softer side. Yes, we learned about energy and reciprocity of giving and receiving.  We learned about faith in ourselves and something greater than ourselves.  We shared our gratitudes. 

While all of this magic was going on, dishes were being banged, conversations being loudly had, people in and out, distraction after distraction.  Hard?  Very.

For the yoga teachers out there, what is YOUR intention when teaching? Does your intention change based on your students in class and is your intention different than your class plan?

For everyone, what is your intention? How do you want to interact with the world today? Begin your day by setting an intention and then make choices to align with that.

xo, Stacie

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Three Different Versions

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When one finds their true purpose in life, whether it is being a parent, a doctor, an electrician, an artist or a Yoga teacher, it is unequivocally important to listen to and to pursue the nudging that your soul speaks.  I believe that if we never follow what our inner voice is asking to do, we will endlessly spin during this human life looking elsewhere for fulfillment, continually lost and yet often seeking.

It is hard for me to imagine what may have happened had I not listened. Especially during those days of diapers and snotty noses, when I was seeking some sort of resemblance of control by manically cleaning and organizing my life, that my purpose was lying dormant until the perfect time to emerge from the darkness.  I know more than anything that my girl was absolutely placed in my life to open the door for me to walk into my soul purpose.  The winding road was difficult and took many detours, but ultimately it was her who said, “Come on Mom, something really great awaits you.”

This is how I have come to be here today, and how my passion became my purpose.  It is also how I took a challenge that life handed me and helped me to create meaning not just for myself, but more importantly for others.  If you can glean any insights into not only teaching Yoga to people with unique needs but in everyday life, then it was all most definitely worth it.  I believe after-all each of us is supposed to do something powerful with our lives and we use our challenges to make the world a better place.

Part of my yoga teacher mentoring program is diving into the method that I have created and have seen incredible success from across various settings and abilities. My method touches on the teachings of Yoga and has much less focus on the physical body than many Western teachings. It seems our physical focused culture equates Yoga with touching our toes or putting ourselves into strange shapes. This focus lends many who mentor with me or those who are curious about my students to ask questions and wonder.

The question that I get asked more than any other question in the mentoring program from other yoga teachers is — how do you take traditional yoga postures and make them available to people with various levels of mobility?

I teach in my mentoring program that fundamentals that I believe every class has to HAVE to happen: community, movement, breathing, and gratitude. The movement part is what we tend to focus on, but many of my students are not able to move their bodies independently so some tweaking to the postures becomes a little more challenging. If they are willing to allow you to move their bodies for them (with lots of tenderness) then it really is not much different. 

Notice below in this picture there are three different versions of seated mountain pose. One with both arms, one with one arm, and one with the student assisting herself with her partially paralyzed right arm to extend it to the sky. 

Are all of these versions “correct”? Does that even matter? To me, not at all. Each of these students are connecting to themselves and are in it. They are each experiencing their own unique sensations, thoughts and feelings about the shape that their body is creating, and that is the ultimate essence of Yoga.

Nothing makes me shake my head more that when someone says that can’t do yoga because they are not flexible. Our silly minds have such a way of distorting truth and coming up with irrational reasons as to why we resist something that may be different or new.

I say often there is a method to the madness. Yoga is about awareness and union with ourselves and the avenues in which we travel to get there is actually quite similar to a traditional class, regardless of style or ability, if the intention is aligned. When we connect and let go of the chatter that something has to be “right” or done in whatever ideal of perfection one thinks, we then find the union we are seeking.

If you are a curious Yoga teacher wanting to learn more, reach out to me for additional opportunities to learn and be part of an online forum of learning.

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Divine Feminine Energy and Aromatherapy

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Spring is the perfect time to dive into personal growth right alongside of nature. The month of May is perfect for tapping into the divine feminine energy to foster some nurturing for the growth ahead.

if you’ve been following along with the the last few months, you may have caught my theme of personal growth. Back in March we learned how to prepare our “soil” in the garden in our heart by removing the trash, twigs and weeds that take can take over when left unattended. In April, we took some intentions into our hearts and planted them within with hopes that we will grow in an area of ourselves that we may be lacking. I personally chose to grow some acceptance after I worked hard on removing some disappointments.

Nurturing the Seeds

Now, this month we continue on by looking at how do we nurture these “seeds”? What types of things will act as sunshine and water for the precious intentions we have cultivated in our spirits? 

One of my favorite ways to work with the energy of nurturing is to really tap into the divine feminine energy.

Divine feminine energy is of receptivity and stillness.

Divine feminine energy is of non-doing.

Feminine energy dwells in the shadows and is connected the the lunar energy. Feminine energy is the receptive side of us that is softer, slower, still, and welcoming of ideas and thoughts.

Slowing down in general especially on the days where you do not have to be doing and going. Society glorifies busy. Then burnout happens.

How to work towards the still, peaceful moments that connect you to a deeper part of yourself.

Also attempting to tap more into your intuition is another aspect to living more in the divine energy flow of life. Having daily rituals is important to stay connected to this energy. Mastering self care rituals which include bubble baths and time alone in the garden. Waking early and spending some quiet time alone. These little moments in a busy day help to keep the divine feminine energy there.

This month in my personal practice as well as my teachings, I intend to move on my mat in ways that nurture this energy. Coming into flowing and graceful movements while then holding postures in stillness and looking inward. Slowing down my body on the mat to lean into the stillness within will transfer to my life which is the true purpose of yoga.

Aromatherapy and Divine Feminine Energy

Also part of my slowing down softening the edges of myself, and being more intuitive and intentional about things includes using aromatherapy. I love to use essential oils to help the process of connecting. It sounds crazy, but essential oils and plant therapy have been used for centuries in various forms and during rituals. Most modern medicine is derived from the properties of plants and I love using the purest form of the plant.

In my experience, the higher noted citrus oils or flower-scented oils offer a strong connection to the divine feminine.

Once you have experimented with scents and their effects, you may like to also integrate yoga and crystals into your practices to tap into the divine feminine. It took me some experimenting to find what I love, and what I need.

Suggested Essential Oils for Awakening the Divine Feminine:

  • Bergamot — The oil of self-acceptance and self-love. Also promotes self-confidence and the knowing that you are enough.
  • Geranium — The oil of love and trust. Geranium helps us forgive, become more tolerant and gentle. It eases heavyhearted emotions and feelings of abandonment.
  • Lavender — Oil of Balance. If all else fails, this oil is one of the most versatile. If you’re up and not grounded, lavender is the anchor. Conversely, if you’re down, lavender is the sunshine to shift the clouds.
  • Ylang Ylang —The oil to release. This oil helps us feel playful, free, intuitive and emotionally connected. Ylang Ylang helps us release bottled up emotions. This plant also opens up our playful side and inner child.
  • Clary Sage — The oil of clarity and vision. This beautiful oil helps develop spiritual clarity, intuition and open-mindedness. It teaches us how to use our divinely given feminine gifts. It also helps balance hormones.
  • Rose-The oil of divine love. It supports you as a queen and symbolises pure divine universal love. Rose dissolves fear and awakens our inner goddess. Rose helps us feel more compassionate, tenderhearted and accepting, drawing out those feminine qualities. Rose allows us to choose to receive divine love. 
  • Cedarwood — Oil of Community. Cedarwood inspires the feeling of belonging and assists the heart in opening to receive the love and support of other people.”
  • Magnolia — Oil of Compassion. Magnolia encourages all individuals on a profoundly spiritual level to interact without causing pain or suffering and to refrain from seeing others as somehow less than oneself.
  • Thyme — Oil of Releasing & Forgiving. This herbal essential oil is beautiful for becoming more openhearted and understanding. Thyme “assists in addressing trapped feelings which have been buried for a long time.”

Ideally when we use essential oils to support feminine energy, we are looking to feel all the feelings we’ve likely been suppressing–self love, acceptance, intuition, and the softness of our spirit.

Using these oils will gently soften and bring out the feminine side of you. They are a lovely way to self empower and value add to any self-care activity you are undertaking to better your life and mindset. I love to make a roller blend with these oils during this month to tap into the feelings of nurturing my divine feminine and start to really give the seeds in my heart that I’ve been working on planting the last month or so.

I have a gorgeous free ebook that walks you through the use of essential oils in everyday life for your family. Whether you opt for the more energetic and emotional uses or the practical everyday remedies, you can check it out here.

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