Yoga with Karel : May 2015

A little preview for you!

Prosperity Pie by Sark
204 pages
Publisher:Simon & Schuster
Source: Bought

First Impressions: I have always seen Sark's books in used bookstores. I always love flipping through them because the pages are all handwritten and super colorful. I finally decided to pick up my own Sark book. I remember specifically liking this one because is 1) there is glitter on the cover and 2) the cover says "How to Relax About Money and Everything Else". How fitting in my life!

Below are my random thoughts and notes about this book. (:

We are not alone. We are enough.

We must work with our darkness in order to embrace the light.

What we do do not define us.

Exploring our inner selves to "increase our feelings of enoughness" (p44).

Our inner voice dictates our waking life. We must change the negative talk to ourselves in order to live a happy life. We should not ignore the negative situations but rather embrace them as challenges and understand that we need it to grow and embrace the positivity in our lives.

We need to notice our feelings and accept that it happens to everyone. We can embrace our challenges and move forward.

Self love is crucial to loving another. Acknowledging gratitude helps love flow.

"We are all in the process of discovery and recovery."

One of my favorite quotes from this book.

This book got me pretty emotional... as in feeling many emotions as I continued reading. I felt at peace that she validated what I already knew, I felt relieved that she explained what I didn't know. Most of all, I read this book with an open heart. It helped me understand myself and what I needed and didn't need in my life. The inspiration chapter was so refreshing because I realized that I am inspired by everything around me from the weather to the sounds to the stillness of the objects sitting on my nightstand. I really enjoyed this book. I love that she includes many books for you to read further if you wanted to know more on a specific topic.

Prosperity Pie is my current favorite book. I loved every page and the messages Susan brings in her book. I love that the entire book is handwritten. Because of that, it has a more intimate feel, like she is just a friend or a close teacher speaking to me about her journey through life.

I highly recommend this book. I definitely plan on picking up SARK's books in the future. I know she has written many, all with the handwritten and colorful style. If you get the chance, definitely pick up one of her books. I always see them in the psychology/self help (should be renamed as self exploration) section of used bookstores.

Another wonderful one. I think I might scan this and frame it to put on my wall.

This post contains affiliate links.
Courtesy of Prosperity Pie by Sark

I shared a link yesterday on the Facebook page. It is 10 Daily Reminders to Keep Us Grounded by Zuzu Perkal. So, I didn't write it however, the picture they used is me during practice at Wanderlust 108! How special is that? You can check out the article on the Wanderlust Blog and don't forget to give my Facebook a link for more articles and YWK updates! (:

Courtesy of Wanderlust

Just another Monday collection! But today, I got the day off. I could not be any happier. My plan today is to completely relax on a blanket outside today! What are your plans for today? Let me know in the comments.

(Unknown Source)

Unfortunately, there are many unknown sources. Sometimes I use Pinterest and Tumblr to find these amazing quotes but some users change the links to benefit their own businesses. It is such a shame. When I find the original source, I will update them. Please let me know if you find them! Thank you!

I bought a medium sized aloe plant at a local farmers market a few years ago. I transferred it to a larger pot because I wanted it to flourish. It looked so puny when I put it in there. A year later, it's nearly outgrowing it's pot! I am almost tempted to split it into a few smaller pots but I am going to keep it for now. I found some awesome skincare DIYs that asked for Aloe Gel which is something you can get at a health food store. Since I had an aloe plant, I decided to make it myself. Now, you are probably asking, why didn't I just use fresh aloe? Here's the thing... I did some research and if I used fresh aloe in a DIY, it would only keep for a week. Since the recipe asked for aloe gel, I found a DIY and found out that it will keep for 8 months!

Three simple ingredients to make this gel.

Fresh aloe all ready to go! So slimy.

My "gel" ended up more liquidy then gel like.

DIY Aloe Gel

1/2 Cup fresh aloe
1/4 teaspoon vitamin C powder or ascorbic acid (this is what preserves it. I also found mine at my local Whole Foods. I got the Whole Foods brand and got it for almost half the price!)
1/4 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Place all ingredients in a blender or a food processor and mix thoroughly. Transfer to an air tight container and keep in refrigerator.

Aloe has one very obvious use which was the only use I only knew of, which is for sunburns. Now, I do not burn, I have tried to burn in Costa Rica but that didn't work out too well. So I sought out some uses for Aloe Gel because now I have it for 8 months and need to find uses for it!

You can actually put this gel in an ice cube try and have a nice cooling aloe ice cube to rub on yourself when you do get a sunburn. I imagine this feeling nice.
Make your own hand sanitizer! Mix 1/4 Cup aloe gel, 2 Tablespoons alcohol, and 10 drops of essential oil. Put it in a small spray bottle. The alcohol will kill those darn germs and the aloe will soothe your skin.¹
Treat minor burns with your aloe gel. Perfect for kitchen accidents since I keep my gel in the fridge. ²
Use as an eye brow gel. Dip a clean mascara wand in your gel and sweep over brows.¹ I wish I knew this before I bought some clear gel for my brows. Darn it.
Put your aloe gel on those annoying rashes.²
Lather it on a bug bite to help with the stinging and itching. ²
Grow your eyebrows faster by putting 1 part aloe gel and 1 part castor oil on brows.¹
Add some brown sugar to your aloe gel to make a nice scrub for your body. ¹
Use your aloe gel as a make up remover. ²
Add 1 teaspoon of almond milk and 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to 1 Tablespoon of aloe gel to create a face wash. This is great for sensitive skin, breakouts, and rosacea. ¹

Courtesy of (1) Prevention, (2) How Stuff Works,
Original Recipe of Aloe Gel

My, what a fun weekend doing tons of DIYs for you all! I can't wait to share them with you. Lots of exciting fun coming up on the blog... Meanwhile, why don't you enjoy some yinspiration this Monday!

A couple days ago, I made a post about the new tagline I created - "Self exploration through yoga." I explained that yoga to me is more than the physical asana and I wanted to take some extra time to talk about what that means.
When I went to yoga teacher training at Pavones Yoga Center, I learned about the 8 Limbs of Yoga. This to me encompasses what yoga is to me. I find that everything in my life is yoga.

As I have learned in my training, the 8 Limbs are more like a circle flowing rather than steps. You can jump around or stick with one or practice all at once! Below I will explain each one in order but remember that they are not steps, they all interconnect. Number 5-8 is the levels of meditation so you can really chunk it up as meditation. Note that this is just the absolute basics, the introduction. This is what my understanding is of the 8 Limbs and what I have learned, researched, and experienced.

Yamas are ethical restrains. It includes: ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), aparigraha (non-envy), and brahmacarya (restraint of sexual energy).
Niyamas are relational to the yamas. It is the inner practice. It includes: sauca (purity and cleanliness), tapas (willful discipline), santosha (contentment), svādhyāya (self study), and iśvarapranidhānā (there is not English word for this so let's just say it is kind of like your drive and your motivation).
Asanas is the posture of meditation. It is what we all see what yoga is. It is the physical postures.
Pranayama is life force, it is our breath, our focus.
Pratyahara is the awareness of focus. It is the outward thinking to turning inward.
Dharana is the mind staying and not jumping around. It is the focus.
Dhyana is the relaxing state of mind.
Samadhi is the presence.

So there you have it. This is what I mean that everything is yoga. All aspects of life is yoga. It is that mindfulness, being present, being aware. It is something that I constantly try to be mindful of. I am not perfect but I am able to observe the things in my life that can use some changing. For example, while driving today, I cursed a car for cutting me off. I instantly noticed the violence within my being and changed my reaction quickly.

My yoga teacher told us to focus on one thing a week and observe that. One thing many people can work on, including myself, is ahimsa toward the self. We are constantly judging ourselves and we often do not have the kindest words. We are our harshest judge. The next time you think something negative about yourself, just observe. See how that feels in you and think of what you need to do to change it. This week I am going to work on svādhyāya, self study. As I say, Yoga with Karel is about self exploration through yoga and I want to explore and study more so I can share that knowledge with you all!

What is something that you would like to work on this week? Tell me in the comments!

Courtesy of my personal yoga notes from YTT and my wonderful teacher, Indira, for teaching me all these things.
Wholicious

This website has been quite the amazing journey. It has taken me quite a while to figure out what I wanted in this blog and I have stumbled upon what I wanted this blog to be on accident while reading a book. I realized that I live life through self exploration. I love projects, meditations, workshops, activities and books that let me explore more about myself. For me, yoga is just that.

Throughout my blogging journey, I discovered that I wanted to post more on lifestyle than solely the physical aspect of yoga. I started by posting about asanas, the yoga postures, then transitioning into my personal life, what is going on and what I am liking at that moment. Yoga to me has always been something more than the physical.

Completing teacher training this past January has confirmed that yoga is my lifestyle. Through my blog, I want to share my self exploration through yoga and maybe it can help some people! I have always loved psychology and exploration of the self. I took a class in college called "Inner Geographies" where each of us would explore our own lives and connect it to physical geographies. Here is an example of my personal compass - the things that drive me and motivate me to find my true direction in life.

This is just a little glimpse of some of the larger projects I want to share on here. I think it is a way to create but also learn more about myself as we dive deeper into our consciousness.

While a physical yoga practice is part of my life, I find that yoga is all encompassing. I bring the teachings of yoga in my life everyday. It has taught me so much about myself and I continue to learn more. I am a life long learner and this blog is about the self exploration through yoga and I invite you all on this journey with me.

Wowwee! I had an absolute amazing time away. I was in SoCal for a mini vacation and went to my lovely friend's wedding. I had a great time. Anyway, happy Monday! Here is another collection of inspirations and motivations for our lovely week ahead. (:

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(Unknown Source)

Fresh cut wheatgrass ready to juice!

Wheatgrass is amazing. It is pretty much the magical drink to everything. I once drank wheatgrass with every meal plus some extras while I was sick and got better so much quicker than if I hadn't! A wheatgrass shot a day, keeps the doctors away!

Here is my little collection of why wheatgrass is freaking awesome!

A two ounce shot of wheatgrass is said to have the nutritional equivilent to five pounds of raw vegetables. (Source)
It gives me energy and wakes me up in the morning. Wheatgrass is more effective than coffee for me.
Wheatgrass is such a pretty color of very vibrant green. It makes a beautiful home decor.
Pumped with amazing nutrients. Vitamin A. Vitamin C. Vitamin E. Iron. Calcium. Magnesium. Amino Acids. Wow! (Source)
Wheatgrass helps my immune system. I once took lots of wheatgrass shots and put them in my drinks for three days while I was sick and got better so fast!
Good source for protein. Yeah! (Source)
Helps prevent gray hair. (Source)
It even prevents hair loss! (Source)
Used for cancer and arthritis alternative programs. Wheatgrass contains a lot of chlorophyll which is said to help fight cancer and arthritis. (Source)
Treats constipation (Source)
Has a lot of iron which helps increase red blood cells. Perfect for those who are anemic. (Source)
Helps with prevention of heart disease and diabetes. (Source)
When massaged onto the scalp and kept on for 15 minutes, it can help reduce and get rid of dandruff. (Source)
Helps remove toxins in your blood and liver. (Source)
Can be used as a body deodorant. (Source)
Wheatgrass contains amino acids which are the "building blocks of protein". (Source)
It is a powerful detoxifier filled with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and phytonutrients. (Source)
Helps the body restore abnormalities due to the high levels of oxygen in it. (Source)
Helps prevent varicose veins. (Source)
It is a great skin cleanser. It helps remove dead skins cells from your body. (Source)
Helps protect us from carcinogens. As in... lessening the effects of radiation and toxins coming into our body. What?! How crazy is that!!! (Source)
It is 73% carbs and 27% protein. (Source)
Gargling wheatgrass will help a sore throat. (Source)
Wheatgrass has an antibacterial effect. When two ounces of wheatgrass juice is mixed with a bucket of distilled water, soak feet it and it helps with the itching from athlete's foot! (Source)
Treats the common cold, coughs, bronchitis, fevers, infection, and inflammation of the throat and mouth. (Source)
Wheatgrass is 70% chlorophyll. (Source)
Helps remove heavy metals that are in your body. (Source)
It helps relieve your body of cravings and helps prevent overeating. (Source)
Helps with chronic skin disorders. (Source)
Helps reduce or eliminate bad breath and bad odor because it is so detoxifying. (Source)
It is best to drink wheatgrass on an empty stomach to get all the benefits from it. (Source)
Because of its antibacterial effects, it creates an unfavorable environment for yeast and bacteria. With regular consumption, you can prevent yeast and bacterial growth. Candida anyone? (Source)
Wheatgrass can be found in different forms. Instead of juicing it, it can come in a powder form. This makes it easy to put in our smoothies!
It can help with treating acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. (Source)
Helps with rheumatic pain. (Source)
Tightens and soothes loose skin. (Source)
Have diabetes? This magical drink helps regulate your sugar levels. (Source)
It helps reduce inflammation. (Source)
Because wheatgrass is so detoxifying, some people get headaches. This is a sign that the toxins are starting to leave your body! (Source)
Wheatgrass grows really quickly.
It only takes a minute to digest. (Source)
Helps soothe cuts and burns. (Source)
Cleans out the organs. (Source)
Wheatgrass helps build muscles because of its amino acids. (Source)
It can help with tooth problems, like tooth decay. (Source)
Wheatgrass is very high in fiber, so be careful or you will be running to the bathroom! (Source)
Helps lower blood pressure. (Source)
Increases red blood cell count. (Source)
It is very alkaline, which helps your body balance its pH levels. (Source)
Wheatgrass is really easy to grow! Check back soon on how I did it (: Follow me on Twitter and Instagram for a fun little day by day update of my little plants.
BONUS! Includes these vitamins: A, C, E, K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, and Choline. (Source)
BONUS! Includes these minerals: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Copper, Manganese, and Selenium. (Source)

Courtesy of WebMD, Hippocrates Institute, Horticulture Center of Illinois State, Landline Australia, Juice for Health, American Cancer Society, Self Nutrition Data, The Chalkboard Mag, Raw for Beauty, My Health by Nature, Stylecraze,

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor. Please talk to your doctor before introducing something new to your diet. If you have a wheat allergy, start small. If allergies persist, stop. Wheat grass does not contain gluten but always use caution. I am not claiming that wheatgrass cures or treats any disease, sickness, or ailment.

I decided to combine March and April's favorites because there were not a lot of things I remember using in March! Oops. Here are some of my favorite products and people!

The Mason Bar Company Caps - I have wanted mason jar caps that turn my jars into tumblers for a long time. I like them because 1) I use what I already have 2) BPA free container because it is class and 3) drinking through a straw makes me drink more water. I finally got my caps in the mail and I am so excited about it still! I use them everyday. I got them in Moneypenny, Mint, and Bamboo. I have been bringing juices and iced tea to work everyday and I always have one in a tumbler so I can sip and another one stored so when I finish, I can switch.

Foldable Beach Blanket - I got this for my birthday along with the next item. My parents know that I like to hang outside all the time. I really love this blanket because it is so compact and light and it is washable. I love taking it outside at the park or even in my backyard. I even use it underneath my yoga mat in the park! It is so handy. (P.S. The one I linked isn't the one I received, it is similar.)

Sony Bluetooth Wireless Speakers - My parents had this great idea to get me wireless speakers for my birthday because I have been using my phone in a bowl to amplify music. I looovveeee this little speaker! It is so small but the sound is so good. I am able to use with all of my devices with it (my iPhone, my laptop, even my Kindle!).

Coconut Oil - I don't even know how many times coconut oil have been on my favorites but I have been loving it these past two months! Previously, I went back to traditional lotion and realized how dry my skin has gotten. Then I realize that all the lotions I have been using have alcohol in it and it was advertised as natural! Eeek! So I went back to putting coconut oil on all the time especially when I know I am going to spend time in the sun.

The Voice - My current favorite TV show is the Voice. I rarely watch TV but this show is so fun! The judges are hilarious and the talent is amazing. I like this show more than other singing shows because it is truly about the person's ability to sing and perform. The beginning is having blind auditions so the judges are truly judging the person based on their voice. It is a great concept and I really enjoy watching it. It is also a time that my family and I sit down and enjoy something together.

Happy Kombucha by David's Tea - I am loving this tea right now. I have been obsessed with making iced teas everyday and this tea is my favorite to make. I love that when I finish the tea and add water to my jar, the leftover flavor from the tea makes my water taste like candy. I love the taste so much but I honestly love the smell even more! I think if I were a tea, I would be Happy Kombucha. Its description is peace and love (ME!) and it has it is "combined it with oolong, mango, pineapple and safflowers to make it taste like a golden ray of psychedelic sunshine". Ooooh yeah.

Hannah Maggs - My current favorite YouTuber right now is Hannah and her adorable family. In previous favorites I have mentioned how much I am loving vloggers. I don't know what it is about watching somebody's day to day life but I like it. I love her videos! They are so beautifully edited (by her husband) and the music is always lovely that I find myself adding them to my Spotify. I like to put her videos on in the background or when I want to sit and veg. No matter, I love this lovely lady and her beautiful videos. She inspires me to write more on my blog. (:

This post contains affiliate links.
I am not sponsored or getting to paid to endorse any of the items mentioned above. I bought and used all these items myself and they are truly my favorites for this month. Thank you!

Another Monday, another collection. I don't know about you but Yinspiration Mondays are my favorite days of the week to write for. Although it does not take a lot out of me, I love sifting through the beautiful quotes and it really motivates me for my week. Hope you all have a beautiful week ahead. Let me know some of your favorite quotes in the comments!

(Unknown Source)

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I cannot believe how quickly this year has flown. My birthday month is over and it is officially May. It has been quite some time since I have done a month reflection and goals so here it is.

April has been quite the adventure. I got so much inspiration and motivation to start new projects. How exciting is April!
I: