This Week's Little Life Notes From Me to You
As we approach the end of summer, the garden work is becoming a bit of a chore. However, I've found that breaking up work sessions at the desk every half hour with a quick foray outside not only gives me a needed break but keeps things tidy so I won’t be overwhelmed later on. It’s gone a little wild because I let many herbs go to seed in the hopes that next year they will emerge with the warmer days.
I enjoy meeting new people during my ‘Lunch and Learn’ webinars, there’s always heartfelt sharing and a laugh. I'm excited to announce that we'll be continuing these online meetings on the third Thursday of each month, and I hope you can join us. In the article that follows, I was inspired by our talk this week to share a personal journey of transformation I believe you'll find both inspiring and insightful.
And speaking of exciting events, "Meet the Artist" is just around the corner! It's happening tomorrow, and it's your final chance to bid on the paintings and engage in art-centric conversations. I can't wait to connect with you all and delve into all things art.
Yoga for Stress Relief: Finding Calm Amid Chaos
by Frances Adamson
In these tumultuous times, stress has become a constant companion for many of us. The global pandemic, economic uncertainties, and the challenges of everyday life can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. How can we navigate this chaotic world while maintaining a sense of calm and balance? The answer lies in the practice of yoga.
Life is inherently uncertain, and adversity can strike at any moment. Job loss, relationship troubles, health issues – these are just a few of the curveballs life can throw our way. However, as spiritual seekers, we believe in the power of mindset and the abundance of the Universe. We seek the freedom to thrive on our own terms, yet the current circumstances may test our ability to manage stress and overwhelm.
So, what can we do when stress and overwhelm threaten to consume us? Yoga teaches us the art of self-awareness, a practice that can transform our relationship with stress.
I was so uncomfortable with who I was. I received judgment – "You're too loud, interrupt people, laugh at the wrong moment." These criticisms had me cringing in all my relationships.
My experience highlights a common theme: the need to prove our worth. Whether through assertiveness or reticence, most people grapple with their self-worth. Yoga introduced me to a refreshing approach to self-observation.
My yoga teacher's guidance was simple yet profound: "Notice the breath in your body. That is self-observation." This directive offered me immense relief. "How could my breathing be wrong?" I wondered. The answer was clear – it couldn't. Yoga required nothing more than observing my body and thoughts as they naturally ebbed and flowed.
Through yoga, I learned to identify my emotional and energetic states via my breath – "I am agitated, or I am calm" – not with the aim to change but to be present and observe. This practice bestowed upon me the invaluable gift of a less stressful life.
As I became less anxious and more serene, I mastered the tools to cope with negative emotions. Rather than attempting to suppress them, I learned to acknowledge my feelings in relaxation or meditation. "Do I feel rejected, angry, stressed, or overwhelmed? Well, that's only natural," I realized. "I am in the midst of a divorce, or my children are young, and sleep is scarce. Or, I am passionately pursuing my dreams, and fear occasionally creeps in."
My journey illustrates that our weaknesses and vulnerabilities can also be our strengths. By relaxing into new beliefs – "I am worthy of love because I exist" – I embraced a gentler, more accepting mindset.
Stress and overwhelm, it turns out, are not adversaries but messengers urging us to slow down, recover, and gain clarity. From this place of inner peace, we can see obstacles as challenges to overcome rather than insurmountable roadblocks.
Remember, you are a deeply feeling and responsive being, and you are not alone on this journey. As we release negative beliefs and the urge to constantly strive, we invite ease and take life step by step. We are all interconnected in a world filled with love, capable of providing assistance and receiving it in return.
In times of need, remember that the Universe has our back, and together, we can find the path to a less stressful life.
Amazing Resource:
"Breath: The Science of a Lost Art"
This documentary film, directed by James Nestor, delves into the profound connection between breath and well-being, a fundamental concept within yoga practice.
The film takes viewers on a journey to uncover the lost art of breathing. It explores the science of breath, drawing on insights from experts in various fields, including medicine, physiology, and anthropology. Viewers are introduced to the power of breath to improve physical health, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity.
Through engaging storytelling and eye-opening demonstrations, the documentary shows how modern lifestyles have disrupted our natural breathing patterns and how this can contribute to a range of health issues. It offers practical insights into reclaiming optimal breathing habits to boost overall wellness.
"Breath: The Science of a Lost Art" is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, and YouTube Movies.
UPCOMING EVENTS
"Meet the Artist" in Toronto and LIVE on Facebook
Join us for a special "Meet the Artist" event on September 24th from 12 pm to 2 pm at TheTranzac Club, located at 292 Brunswick Avenue, Toronto, ON M5S 2M7 (near Bloor and Bathurst). This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with the artist (me) and immerse yourself in the world of art. So, save the date, bring your friends and family, and join us for this artistic journey.
Can't make it in person? No worries! For those not local to the area, all the pieces are available for purchase at any time by commenting on the painting on my Facebook page. We'll also be sharing the event highlights LIVE on Facebook, ensuring you can still be a part of the experience. (Just click on my Facebook page under connect with me) We look forward to seeing you there!
Learn More
SAVE THE DATE!
Join us for a rejuvenating half-day retreat on October 21st! 🌿 Experience the perfect blend of yoga, forest bathing, and a delicious lunch. Discover self-expression in the heart of nature. Stay tuned for more details next week. 🍃✨
CONNECT WITH ME
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frances.adamson.9
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francie-adamson-1686a41a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joycoreconnection/
Blog: https://joycore.ca/yoga-wellness-blog/
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