While reading a book, I encountered a phrase that got me thinking; “Imagine yourself as the best version of who you are...” Despite my discomfort with the words above, it helped me realize something rather important. It seems I no longer believe in “the best”. For me, the concept of “the best” is something I am slowly letting go of. I’ve come to think of “the best” as a representation of what we believe to be the most wonderful thing within that moment. It ...
Learning To Let Go: Adventures in NYC
This past weekend was spent in one of my favorite cities in the world - NYC. One of the reasons I love New York deeply is the kick of energy it gives by simply being there. You don't happen to New York. It happens to you. Just step outside and a new adventure takes off with next level characters lining the pages of this people filled, subway riding, park walking, show stopping, urine scented, music everywhere story. And rats. There will always ...
Why I Decided To Teach Yoga
I read an amazing book about yoga a few years back. “The Science of Yoga” by William J. Broad. If you love yoga, if you’re curious about yoga, heck if you like good writing read this book! It is chock a block filled with the history of yoga, current trends, future predictions and well researched facts about an ancient way of life that has gone through waves of transformation. The well loved copy I have is filled with writing in the margins. Nothing too ...
Learn To Love Discomfort
I see it all the time. Everyday to be honest. When students know a hard posture is coming they tense up, squeeze muscles, contort faces and brace the body in anticipation of what they think will be the worst thing ever. I am guilty of this reaction. On and off the mat. When I know something unpleasant or unenjoyable is about to take place, I brace the body and align the thoughts accordingly. This usually means I start to dread, avoid or quietly curse the ...
Learning To Be A Better Version Of Myself
My body felt so heavy this past Saturday. Not physical weight but the icky weight of sadness. It was the ache of anticipation I get at the thought of saying goodbye to someone I love. These someones are the kind of people I love so much it hurts. My sister, niece and nephew. Those who know me, know they are my heart. They are moving across the country......shit. I wanted to give in. To settle into the sediment of sadness and wallow in that ooey gooey heart ache -- But I ...
How Almost Drowning Helped Me To Breathe
I got tossed by a wave in Nicaragua. Let me rephrase that…. I got thrashed and schooled by a wave in Nicaragua. It was one of those defining moments that engulfs and then stirs up every part of you. Your heart, mind and body get a jarring wake up call. Every aspect of who I am was tossed around like a rag doll and spit out by the Pacific Ocean. My major take away from the situation? -- Jelayna, you are so very tiny. This tiny vessel holds a ...
Once A Rower, Always A Rower
I love getting manicures. This never used to be the case. Back in university, the idea of getting my nails done was absurd. When you row every day, your hands are so blistered they look like you may be suffering from leprosy. You don’t tend to do things that draw attention to your nails. Being feminine wasn’t something I actively sought out. For years I was an athlete. I worked my body and mind to the point of exhaustion, sweating to the point of pain, and triumphing over my own ...
