Well, I did it again. I disappeared Was off to a great bloggin' start, feeling really motivated and then.
WHOMP
Life got in the way.
But what a beautiful life I have. A dear friend sent me a video about Gratitude today, reminding me of my 2013 intention, to be MORE grateful. I had wholeheartedly intended to write down my gratitude everyday for 2013, so after my brief hiatus, I am back.
Like always I am changing my format. intention,
I noticed that when I was posting, life felt, different, better. All of the little things that would normally throw my day into a tailspin, didn't. So am very grateful to have learned the value this practice has. It is really amazing the power gratitude has.
This week, I am grateful for the ability to start again. in ANYTHING I choose to do. I am starting over today, and I hope you will join me as I discover what it is like to be truly grateful everyday.
What are YOU grateful for today?
I would love to hear from you.
PS Here is the link to the Gratitude Video....Enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?feature=player_embedded&v=nj2ofrX7jAk
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Monday, 7 January 2013
Morning Meditation
I am sure when you read the title of this post your mind pictured something like this:
Or maybe even this
But actually is was more like this:
Shoveling Snow. Minus the hat. My hair ACTUALLY froze.
But with this simple, daily, winter activity I was overwhelmed with a sense of calm. The in-between happy/sad/angry/mad place where you connect with your purpose. The place where you find YOU. And even though it only lasted minutes, they felt like a lifetime.
This is the beauty that a daily mediation practice can bring you. The peace. The most amazing thing about going within is that is can be done anywhere, and does not have to be in a quiet room, on a special cushion, with incense.....I could go on. You do not need to know how to "do it", you don't need a book a manual, a website to tell you how.
You just need to sit and be still. Breathe. Witness. When thoughts come, look at them and smile. Then breathe. Witness. Be still.
Shovel, sweep, wash dishes, play with your kids, but in every situation be mindful, be there, fully in the moment.
It's that simple. Give it a try, you'll be glad you did.
But actually is was more like this:
Shoveling Snow. Minus the hat. My hair ACTUALLY froze.
But with this simple, daily, winter activity I was overwhelmed with a sense of calm. The in-between happy/sad/angry/mad place where you connect with your purpose. The place where you find YOU. And even though it only lasted minutes, they felt like a lifetime.
This is the beauty that a daily mediation practice can bring you. The peace. The most amazing thing about going within is that is can be done anywhere, and does not have to be in a quiet room, on a special cushion, with incense.....I could go on. You do not need to know how to "do it", you don't need a book a manual, a website to tell you how.
You just need to sit and be still. Breathe. Witness. When thoughts come, look at them and smile. Then breathe. Witness. Be still.
Shovel, sweep, wash dishes, play with your kids, but in every situation be mindful, be there, fully in the moment.
It's that simple. Give it a try, you'll be glad you did.
Sunday, 6 January 2013
364 Days of Gratitude
Day 1: January 2nd, 2013
I am grateful for my son Noah, who is turning nine today. He is the first baby I held in my arms and I am very happy he came into our lives, healthy, and perfect. I am also grateful for a clean, warm house and the gently falling snow.
Day 2: January 3, 2013
I am grateful for new beginnings and the potential for change. For finally being heard and feeling valued. I am grateful my kids found a way to all get along to day, and that I got to witness them playing and cooperating. And I am extremely grateful to my husband, my guide, the helpful soul who believes in me more than I could ever believe in myself. I am truly blessed.
Day 3: January 4, 2013
Today I am grateful for my return to my yoga practice-at the studio, that is. Today's class re-affirmed my commitment to practice. Exceptionally grateful, to Kayla, today's teacher for creating such a great series. Grateful to my husband, Kevin today who stayed home to get the kids off to daycare so I could practice and go to work. Grateful for the vegetable pakoras I am going to make when I get home tonight. Perfect ending to a perfect day.
Day 4: January 5, 2013
Today I am so very grateful to the amazing people I have met through my work with Weight Watchers. Staff, Upper management, members, lifetime members, every one of these people have made a positive impact in my life. Even when I thought it wasn't positive at the time. Every interaction is an opportunity for me to grow, and learn. And for that I am grateful.
Day 5:
So many things to be grateful for today, printable templates-helped me plan and create "Spy" birthday invitations for my son's birthday, and come up with some super cool activities for the party. My in home yoga studio that my AMAZING husband built for me-was able to fit in a 60 minute Moksha series AT HOME. Nice. My sister is visiting in just 10 days-always a crazy but fun time. Friends who support me through email when I just need that extra push. Sweet potato Shepherd's Pie.
Day 6:
Snow shoveling, tree dismantling, old friends, new enterprises. Falafel. Yes, falafel.
Oh! And school is back in session. :)
Day 7/8:
Woops, I actually missed one. But hey I was REALLY grateful yesterday. It was one of those days where I had everything happening all at once and the anxiety in my chest was staggering. But I got it all done. I am GRATEFUL because if our ability to change how we THINK so we can change how we FEEL. You see, I took that anxiety and kept saying to myself your not anxious, your EXCITED. You GET to live today, you get to EAT, to drive your car, to see friends old and new, to practice YOGA, to hug you Kids, to be free. I GET to do ALL of that and more. And that my friends is what makes me truly GRATEFUL.
Day 9:
Sometimes it is hard to get in the "attitude of gratitude" I has someone say to me today "You need to be able to always from from a positive space" Not always easy. Sometimes you get a little blue and the blue goes to black. When that happens how to you find the light again? By being GRATEFUL. Tonight I am grateful for preservative free fully cooked chicken nuggets-complete with a sauce package-OK not EXACTLY whole foods, but the closest you can get with frozen chicken nuggets-don't judge. Potato and Sweet Potato "cookies" (recipe one day). Turning anxiety into excitement. And finally just being myself because that is who I am and I wont change for anyone. I'm just me and that's OK.
Oh and one attempt at the "Law of Attraction" and Manifestation...I am grateful for the bottle of wine my husband will bring home from work. Let's hope it works.
Day 10, 11
January 11 and 12
Grateful for the ability to work hard. The last two days have been very full, just found out I will be taking on more responsibility at my job, and since I work in the weight loss industry, this is a VERY busy time. I am so glad I get to work for a company I truly believe in, and help people reach their goals. I also had the opportunity this weekend to work an energy exchange at Moksha Peterborough and it is very busy there as well. An abundant time for all wellness businesses. Thankful I have a family who supports my passion, and family who are willing and able to help out when necessary. The last 12 days have been amazing, your perspective really changes if you just take a few moments to focus on what you HAVE. Love it.
Day 12
January 13
Slow Cookers and My Weight Watchers One Pot Cookbook. Dinner has been on since 9 AM. :)
So grateful because it gave me time to wash and prep fresh veggies for this week, and clean out my fridge of any sneaky unhealthy food lurking and waiting for a weak moment. Such a great feeling going in to the week knowing I am taking care of me and my family! YAY!
Thursday, 3 January 2013
My Moksha
I have been practicing hot yoga since May. I was hooked from the first class. The studio I practice at, http://peterborough.mokshayoga.ca/ is an amazing space with some really passionate teachers and students It is a home away from home, a true Sangha, and I love it dearly.
Moksha Peterborough offers a wide variety of classes, from the traditional 60 and 90 minute Moksha series classes, to reduced heat Vinyasa, Yin, And Yin/Yang Classes. Recent additions to the schedule are Laughter Yoga and Hot Pilates, two classes I really look forward to attending when my schedule permits. Personally I love the Vinyasa classes and 90 minute Moksha. I feel the extra 30 minutes does it for me. We also had the opportunity to practice Ashtanga yoga, with a guest instructor, probably the highlight so far of my "official" yogadom.
Seriously, if I could be there everyday, I would.
I started out with an Intro Monthly Pass-$40!!! for a month of unlimited yoga. Then I moved on to an auto renew pass. When finances became an issue for me, I spoke to the manager and asked about the "Energy Exchange" program. this program is designed to help people who could otherwise not practice, by offering free weekly passes in exchange for working at the studio. So I help clean the place my home away from home, and in exchange I get FREE YOGA. How cool is that.
Today, I dropped in just as a class was ending. I ran into some old friends, students who I practiced with daily and haven't seen since our work schedules changed, three of my FAVORITE teachers, hanging out, taking care of the sangha and just being, and the little yogi, our dear studio owners' new baby boy.
Moksha Peterborough offers more than just a "Calm Mind and a Fit Body" It is a community, a deeply caring and spiritual group of people who have made a huge impact on my life.
For that I am eternally grateful.
So go....you will be glad you did.
Check out your local, Moksha studio, I hope you find what I have. If you live in Peterborough ON, and haven't dropped in, I highly recommend it. You might never leave.
Namaste
Moksha Peterborough offers a wide variety of classes, from the traditional 60 and 90 minute Moksha series classes, to reduced heat Vinyasa, Yin, And Yin/Yang Classes. Recent additions to the schedule are Laughter Yoga and Hot Pilates, two classes I really look forward to attending when my schedule permits. Personally I love the Vinyasa classes and 90 minute Moksha. I feel the extra 30 minutes does it for me. We also had the opportunity to practice Ashtanga yoga, with a guest instructor, probably the highlight so far of my "official" yogadom.
Seriously, if I could be there everyday, I would.
I started out with an Intro Monthly Pass-$40!!! for a month of unlimited yoga. Then I moved on to an auto renew pass. When finances became an issue for me, I spoke to the manager and asked about the "Energy Exchange" program. this program is designed to help people who could otherwise not practice, by offering free weekly passes in exchange for working at the studio. So I help clean the place my home away from home, and in exchange I get FREE YOGA. How cool is that.
Today, I dropped in just as a class was ending. I ran into some old friends, students who I practiced with daily and haven't seen since our work schedules changed, three of my FAVORITE teachers, hanging out, taking care of the sangha and just being, and the little yogi, our dear studio owners' new baby boy.
Everyone welcomed me like an old friend and we chatted about upcoming classes, workshops and just STUFF. Highlight of my day. Thanks guys.
Moksha Peterborough offers more than just a "Calm Mind and a Fit Body" It is a community, a deeply caring and spiritual group of people who have made a huge impact on my life.
For that I am eternally grateful.
So go....you will be glad you did.
Check out your local, Moksha studio, I hope you find what I have. If you live in Peterborough ON, and haven't dropped in, I highly recommend it. You might never leave.
Namaste
Cleaning up my act
I mentioned in my gratitude post (which I WILL update daily) that my weight was at an all time high, my mood low, and I wasn't feeling that into change.
The only constant in life, is that it will change.
And today it did.
Sometimes it is really easy to lose sight of what we HAVE when we focus on what we don't have. That is what I was doing. Today I choose to let go of things that no longer serve me, like Big Macs, entire bags of chips and hours of endless TV. NO more hours of facebook games.
The time has come to focus on the things that truly serve me.
Whole foods, inspired living, yoga, music, life and love.
Sounds amazing doesn't it. What things have you been holding on to that no longer serve you? How will you focus on what truly does? I would love to hear about it!
Wednesday, 2 January 2013
364 Things I am grateful for.....
Ok, I started a day late. I have been trying to get into the "New Year" "New Me" mentality, for a couple of weeks now, Getting into the groove of a fresh start, but frankly, I down in the dumps.
My weight is at an all time high, since losing 50 lbs two years ago, my funds are low, the kids are fighting and it's the middle of winter. Not exactly a recipe for rebirth.
So this morning when I walked into my kitchen, I decided I would post daily, for all to see things that I am grateful for. Something for each day of the year.
364 Things I am grateful for:
1.) January 2nd, 2013 I am grateful for my son Noah, who is turning nine today. He is the first baby I held in my arms and I am very happy he came into our lives, healthy, and perfect. I am also grateful for a clean, warm house and the gently falling snow.
2.) January 3, 2013
I am grateful for new beginnings and the potential for change. For finally being heard and feeling valued. I am grateful my kids found a way to all get along to day, and that I got to witness them playing and cooperating. And I am extremely grateful to my husband, my guide, the helpful soul who believes in me more than I could ever believe in myself. I am truly blessed.
3.)January 4, 2013
Today I am grateful for my return to my yoga practice-at the studio, that is. Today's class re-affirmed my commitment to practice. Exceptionally grateful, to Kayla, today's teacher for creating such a great series. Grateful to my husband, Kevin today who stayed home to get the kids off to daycare so I could practice and go to work. Grateful for the vegetable pakoras I am going to make when I get home tonight. Perfect ending to a perfect day.
4.) January 5, 2013
Today I am so very grateful to the amazing people I have met through my work with Weight Watchers. Staff, Upper management, members, lifetime members, every one of these people have made a positive impact in my life. Even when I thought it wasn't positive at the time. Every interaction is an opportunity for me to grow, and learn. And for that I am grateful.
5.) So many things to be grateful for today, printable templates-helped me plan and create "Spy" birthday invitations for my son's birthday, and come up with some super cool activities for the party. My in home yoga studio that my AMAZING husband built for me-was able to fit in a 60 minute Moksha series AT HOME. Nice. My sister is visiting in just 10 days-always a crazy but fun time. Friends who support me through email when I just need that extra push. Sweet potato Shepherd's Pie.
So I guess this is gonna get kinda long, so Im moving it to it's own tab! Check my GRATITUDE tab. Hey, I guess I ma also grateful for TABS. YAY.
Thursday, 27 December 2012
I'm no Martha, but.....
I do like to bake. Especially at Christmas.
Store bought cookies just don't do it for me, too many ingredients I can't pronounce.
Baking makes me feel so much better about myself. I bake for self-esteem.
The last few months have been all about avoiding wheat, as I recently discovered it doesn't like me.
Gluten I can do. But no AP flour for me. I have experimented with lots of different flours, almond, coconut, spelt, kamut, buckwheat. I have never created an "All purpose gluten free mix" cause I simply have not needed to (yet) Since I don' t need to be gluten free, spelt, and kamut are fair game and as luck would have it easy to substitute.
So this year I adapted three different recipes to accommodate the flours I had on hand
1.) Good ol' gingerbread men.
These came from the WeightWatchers website:
.http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/RecipePage.aspx?recipeId=50669
I substituted kamut and light spelt flour for the AP flour, palm shortening for the "light butter", and palm sugar for the sugar.
2.) Chocolate Chip Shortbread, adapted from http://familyfoodandtravel.com/2012/12/chocolate-chip-shortbread.html Thanks Kerrie.
For this one I simply substituted light spelt flour.
Store bought cookies just don't do it for me, too many ingredients I can't pronounce.
Baking makes me feel so much better about myself. I bake for self-esteem.
The last few months have been all about avoiding wheat, as I recently discovered it doesn't like me.
Gluten I can do. But no AP flour for me. I have experimented with lots of different flours, almond, coconut, spelt, kamut, buckwheat. I have never created an "All purpose gluten free mix" cause I simply have not needed to (yet) Since I don' t need to be gluten free, spelt, and kamut are fair game and as luck would have it easy to substitute.
So this year I adapted three different recipes to accommodate the flours I had on hand
1.) Good ol' gingerbread men.
These came from the WeightWatchers website:
.http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/RecipePage.aspx?recipeId=50669
2.) Chocolate Chip Shortbread, adapted from http://familyfoodandtravel.com/2012/12/chocolate-chip-shortbread.html Thanks Kerrie.
For this one I simply substituted light spelt flour.
The next two are adapted from Clean Eating Magazine website's
I use this a a base recipe then added ingredients to create
a.) Cinnamon Roll Almond Butter cookies
for these I added 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 1 tsp of vanilla and omitted the dark chocolate
Props to Leanne Vogel of Healthful Pursuit for this
as my failure at this recipe led to these cookies.
And
b.) Cocoa Candycane Cookies
for these I added 1/3 cup cocoa powder and 1 tsp peppemint extract, then sprinkled crushed candycane on top.
I think "Elf on the Shelf " left the "kiss"
Here are the finished products ready to go to Grandma's
All in all I was pleased with this years batch....looking forward to next year.
What are your go to holiday recipes???
I'm New Here
To the folks who come upon my blog,
I'm new here, really new. I am going to make mistakes and some of my posts will not be the greatest words ever written. But I do promise that they will be honest, entertaining (mildly) and written about things I am passionate about. I am passionate about a lot of things so it may seemed scattered at first. But keep coming back, I grow on you......
Jane
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Create Lasting Memories With Music
Christmas Music.
You either Love it or hate it.
I happen to love most of it. Why? because of the memories it recreates for me, childhood memories of singing in a choir, the Charlie Brown Christmas show, playing church services, orchestra gigs, and of course playing Christmas music in my home while I carry out all my Christmas activities. Baking, making ornaments with the kids, our annual gingerbread house, wrapping gifts. I do all of this while listening to may holiday favorites.
So here are my favorite Christmas Albums of all time.
Not because they are the greatest singers or musicians of all time-while some of them are, I choose these for the memories they create, and I hope they will create wonderful memories for you too.
1.) The Carpenters Christmas Collection
2.) Boney M Christmas Album
3.) A Charlie Brown Christmas
4.) Michael Buble, Christmas, Deluxe Version-AMAZING BACK UP BAND.
5.) All the oldies, Sinatra, Johnny Mathis, Bing Crosby, Harry Belafonte, Elvis. Pick your favorite singer-they've got a Christmas album.
6.) Gotta add the Dreidel Song and O Hannukah as my two non-traditonal tunes, but would love to have more on my collection.
I recently played a Chistmas Service and I was so amazed at the Choir director's choice of music, he chose music from across the globe and it made the program. Thank-you John Leek!
So there really is something for everyone. If Christmas isn't your tradition. What do you listen to? I'd love to add music from other traditions to my collection.
Happy Holidays to everyone and may your homes and your hearts be filled with music!!
Tuesday, 18 December 2012
In the Bleak Midwinter?
Ever have those days where EVERYTHING is a struggle? Even the simplest things like putting on your make up, doing the dishes.....that turns into forgetting to pack your lunch or a snack, your gym clothes, your bank card. I could go on. I have been having one of those days, well to be honest it is more like one of those months.
So today I embark on the path out of the darkness....back to feeling good, healthy, strong.
1.) Start small.Pick one thing you can commit to. Waking up at the same time every day, making your bed, drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day. Make it small, make it fit your lifestyle, and do it!
So today I embark on the path out of the darkness....back to feeling good, healthy, strong.
How? Glad you asked.
1.) Start small.Pick one thing you can commit to. Waking up at the same time every day, making your bed, drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day. Make it small, make it fit your lifestyle, and do it!
I commit to drinking 2 litres of water a day
2.) Be kind to your self. Look back at all the things you have accomplished in the last ten years, five years, year, 6 months. Start recording the things you accomplish everyday.
Today I:
folded laundry
baked cookies, muffins and squares,
kept my children fed, warm and safe
worked on my presentation
practiced, my horn
practiced yoga
While some of these things we do everyday don't seem like much, when you write them down and REALLY look at them you will be amazed at how good it can make you feel. When you feel good you get MORE good.
3.) Do five acts of kindness everyday. Leave quarters in the grocery carts at the grocery store, Tell someone they look nice today, offer to watch a new mom's baby so she can have a nap.
Sound do-able?
Since I started this post two days ago, things have been looking up. My strength is back! (I did two hot yoga classes yesterday and felt AMAZING after each) , I am drinking LOTS of water, lots more veggies and doing my best to be kind. (ACTUALLY someone gave me their cart at No Frills on Friday, so I made sure I filled up the others before I left )
How do you "Break the Bleak" ?
Sound do-able?
Since I started this post two days ago, things have been looking up. My strength is back! (I did two hot yoga classes yesterday and felt AMAZING after each) , I am drinking LOTS of water, lots more veggies and doing my best to be kind. (ACTUALLY someone gave me their cart at No Frills on Friday, so I made sure I filled up the others before I left )
How do you "Break the Bleak" ?
Monday, 5 November 2012
Endings and Beginnings
For the last 25 days, I have been participating in a 30 day challenge at my local Yoga Studio, Moksha Yoga Peterborough. I have to say it hasn't really been a challenge in many ways because, honestly if I could I would practice there everyday. Unfortunately, that is not always possible for me because I live 30 minutes away, and always have too many balls in the air.
Regardless this was challenging to me, but not for the reasons I thought it would be. It was not physically challenging, I paced myself, listened to my body, drank LOTS of water.
It was very hard to accept that I was not going be able to practice at the studio everyday. I'm not sure I am quite over that one. Like I said, if I could I would be there everyday.
It was hard to practice at home on the days when I could not make it in. I have three young kids 9, 5 and 3. Needless to say a 90 minute Ashtanga practice and a five year old do not mix. Though I am pleased I got through some of it.
I felt awful if I planned to practice and I didn't.
This weekend I was away for work. I checked the local studios for class times, googled mapped it even had a lovely friend to come with me on one day. When I arrived things rapidly changed when I realized just HOW far away the studio was, and that the class would have me arriving for my meeting right on the nose. Not something I am comfy with.
So I did manage to practice in the fitness centre at the hotel, sustaining a slight yoga injury (carpet burns on my feet-left my mat home) But I did it.
So coming to the end of the challenge is the best part of all. Reflecting on the journey so far, I am armed with the knowledge that I DON'T have to be in the studio everyday, I CAN practice at home. And that despite your best intentions, some days just don't go as planned. Looking forward to getting in to the studio this week for about five more classes before the end of the challenge which will put me at 26 out of 30 days. That is amazing. The craziest thing of all is that I thought in the beginning that I would not be satisfied if I didn't do 30-30. But you know what? I am.
Would you consider doing a 30 day challenge of any kind? Have you? I would love to hear your experiences. If not? Why not?
Today I started another 21 Day Meditation Challenge. Care to join me? Check out https://www.chopracentermeditation.com/Bestsellers/LandingPage.aspx?BookId=172
for details its free and its a great way to see see what meditation is all about.
Regardless this was challenging to me, but not for the reasons I thought it would be. It was not physically challenging, I paced myself, listened to my body, drank LOTS of water.
It was very hard to accept that I was not going be able to practice at the studio everyday. I'm not sure I am quite over that one. Like I said, if I could I would be there everyday.
It was hard to practice at home on the days when I could not make it in. I have three young kids 9, 5 and 3. Needless to say a 90 minute Ashtanga practice and a five year old do not mix. Though I am pleased I got through some of it.
I felt awful if I planned to practice and I didn't.
This weekend I was away for work. I checked the local studios for class times, googled mapped it even had a lovely friend to come with me on one day. When I arrived things rapidly changed when I realized just HOW far away the studio was, and that the class would have me arriving for my meeting right on the nose. Not something I am comfy with.
So I did manage to practice in the fitness centre at the hotel, sustaining a slight yoga injury (carpet burns on my feet-left my mat home) But I did it.
So coming to the end of the challenge is the best part of all. Reflecting on the journey so far, I am armed with the knowledge that I DON'T have to be in the studio everyday, I CAN practice at home. And that despite your best intentions, some days just don't go as planned. Looking forward to getting in to the studio this week for about five more classes before the end of the challenge which will put me at 26 out of 30 days. That is amazing. The craziest thing of all is that I thought in the beginning that I would not be satisfied if I didn't do 30-30. But you know what? I am.
Would you consider doing a 30 day challenge of any kind? Have you? I would love to hear your experiences. If not? Why not?
Today I started another 21 Day Meditation Challenge. Care to join me? Check out https://www.chopracentermeditation.com/Bestsellers/LandingPage.aspx?BookId=172
for details its free and its a great way to see see what meditation is all about.
It's been Tu Lang.
I couldn't resist.
Sorry it has been so long since my last post. Fall is a busy time for many of us, getting back into routine, sending the kids off to school and for me returning to my own personal path.
My current path is seeking balance in all aspects of my life. Should be simple right? Not so much.
There are a lot of things I am passionate about: My family, my friends, yoga, meditation, food and nutrition, cooking, creating, helping people, reading, and playing and teaching music.
I am so grateful that my life is filled with so much love, laughter challenge and joy. It is all around me. Being able to dip my feet into so many pools is what creates balance in my life. It is also what can spin me into a hundred different directions, so that one of the many "balls" I am juggling inevitably falls to the ground.
But I always manage to pick it up eventually. So here I am back to the blog. Some things are going to change. I am going to post more often, and I am going to post about everything I am passionate about. Not just about creating balance, but showing people how it really IS possible to do it all. All it takes is a little planning, a little "tula" and a lot of passion and love for what you do.
What do you love? How do you express that love? How do you share it with others?
Can't wait to hear from you.
Sorry it has been so long since my last post. Fall is a busy time for many of us, getting back into routine, sending the kids off to school and for me returning to my own personal path.
My current path is seeking balance in all aspects of my life. Should be simple right? Not so much.
There are a lot of things I am passionate about: My family, my friends, yoga, meditation, food and nutrition, cooking, creating, helping people, reading, and playing and teaching music.
I am so grateful that my life is filled with so much love, laughter challenge and joy. It is all around me. Being able to dip my feet into so many pools is what creates balance in my life. It is also what can spin me into a hundred different directions, so that one of the many "balls" I am juggling inevitably falls to the ground.
But I always manage to pick it up eventually. So here I am back to the blog. Some things are going to change. I am going to post more often, and I am going to post about everything I am passionate about. Not just about creating balance, but showing people how it really IS possible to do it all. All it takes is a little planning, a little "tula" and a lot of passion and love for what you do.
What do you love? How do you express that love? How do you share it with others?
Can't wait to hear from you.
Wednesday, 22 August 2012
How I lost it all-this is a long post
At almost 42, I am probably at my healthiest weight ever. My eating habits have changed drastically since my 30's, 20's and teens. To say I am obsessed with healthy eating would be an understatement. But really what I want most is to eat a diet that fuels my body. Nourishes me. Balances me. Just another place in my life where I strive to create balance. The reason is simple when things are balanced I feel good.
I grew up in a family where there were three vegetables. Potato, Corn and Peas. I suppose a carrot was occasionally thrown into the mix, for some color (they say you should eat a rainbow!)
Bologna was protein.
Lucky Charms were carbohydrates, along with white EVERYTHING.
Margarine not Butter
Getting the picture?
This is just how we ate. As I grew up and my parents knew better, they did better. Despite this overly processed diet. I did not gain weight. In fact I was extremely thin-about 108 lbs 5'5, so much so my brothers and sisters teased me about it.
When I left home at 18 to go to University, I had to fend for myself. I can remember shopping at the local IGA for "groceries" It usually went something like this:
Zesty Cheese Doritos
Canned Corned Beef-I KNOW
White bread
Frutti-like Kool-Aid
Kraft Dinner
Cooked Ham
Cheese Slices
That's all I can remember
I also started drinking-not daily or anything, but I did drink some beers, coolers etc. Ah, Frosh.
Started to gain weight-Didn't really catch on though, wasn't enough to "show"
By 21-22 I weighed about 160 lbs.
When I moved to the "big city" Toronto in 1991, the world of vegetables opened up for me. I started eating ACTUAL protein. Still hadn't started cooking for myself much, but I was getting there.
Took off 20 lbs that summer thanks to the 20 minute workout, a track close to my apartment and lots and lots of stir fries. I did consume a lot of pink lemonade though....I guess that was fruit.
After a break-up the summer of '93, the weight came back on. And with that something new. A self hatred and disgust for myself. I felt like a failure at everything I was doing.
I covered it up by eating, drinking, smoking pot and dating A LOT.
I gained weight. When in 1993 I moved back home to "find myself" I weighed about 174. I joined WeightWatchers.
Oh so that's how she became a WW leader. NOPE. I joined got the books took 'em home. Lasted a couple weeks. Then it was Susan Powter-STOP THE INSANITY-pizza with out the cheese, carbs, carbs, carbs. My lifestyle didn't help. I went back to University-grudgingly to attempt to finish my music degree. That meant beer, and food, and fried pepperoni....oh, and I had been smoking for about two years at this point. Then, my mother was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Frig.
I am so grateful I was home and able to be with her, throughout her treatment, and ultimately her death in 1995. She was very strong until the end, and had a sense of humour that was unbelievable. She was ready. Thinking back now it gives me the greatest sense of peace. Then, not so much. This was when my first clinical depression hit. I struggled my way though it balancing school, living at home, and working a a freelance musician. It was a small city, with not much work so I ended up back in Toronto. Then things started to change.
Lost some weight-about 155 at this point. Finished school with two diplomas in music performance. Not a degree, but something to show for the years of practising and dedication. Still had some vices, smoking, drinking occasionally, still a party girl-but a balanced one.
The year is 2000. I am heavy-ish 155-160, I have a "real" job, I am freelancing as a performer, and generally enjoying life. But I feel like CRAP. I join WeightWatchers again......this time I at least attend the meetings.
On a gig, I meet someone, Kevin, my wonderful, beautiful, amazing husband. My "Upa Guru"
Everything shifts. Suddenly I am with someone who knows ME. Accepts ME. Loves ME.
Now I just had to start loving myself.
Quit WW after losing 20lbs, joined the Y worked out until our wedding-145 lbs.
2002-Married
2004-Baby 1
2005-miscarriage
2006-Build a house
2007-Baby 2
The week my second child was born. My father, my hero, the sweetest, kindest most loving thing I know was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He survived 2 quadruple bypasses. He was a kind, giving man, who dedicated every ounce of himself to music and music education. He was my world.
I thought it would crash down around me.
I started eating better. Clean. Organic. I lost weight, not much but some. I visited, with the baby, he held her-something he rarely did he was always worried he would drop them! he deteriorated quickly. It was awful, unlike my mother he was not ready, he had so much more to do and give.
He passed away April 14th 2008, at home, surrounded by family.
Now I have two kids, no parents, a new house, a job with a two hour commute. Something has to give. I keep up the healthy eating and I feel....awesome.
I get pregnant. Baby 2 is 6mths old. YAY!
Baby three born March 14th 2008.
Three months later I joined WeightWatchers. Went to EVERY meeting. Did the program. Lost 50 lbs. Changed my freakin' life.
I drink rarely, I don't smoke. I don't eat anything refined (well occasionally, I'm not perfect) I try not to eat gluten, I eat a mostly plant based diet, and I am working on finding the right balance with my eating to give me the nourishment, energy and vitality that I feel inside. And I am studying Holistic Nutrition, and practicing Yoga and Meditation. AND I am happy-not uber crazy happy, but peaceful happy. It is an ongoing process. But one I enjoy waking up to everyday. This is my wish for everyone who has struggled with finding the right balance in their life.
Namaste
I grew up in a family where there were three vegetables. Potato, Corn and Peas. I suppose a carrot was occasionally thrown into the mix, for some color (they say you should eat a rainbow!)
Bologna was protein.
Lucky Charms were carbohydrates, along with white EVERYTHING.
Margarine not Butter
Getting the picture?
This is just how we ate. As I grew up and my parents knew better, they did better. Despite this overly processed diet. I did not gain weight. In fact I was extremely thin-about 108 lbs 5'5, so much so my brothers and sisters teased me about it.
When I left home at 18 to go to University, I had to fend for myself. I can remember shopping at the local IGA for "groceries" It usually went something like this:
Zesty Cheese Doritos
Canned Corned Beef-I KNOW
White bread
Frutti-like Kool-Aid
Kraft Dinner
Cooked Ham
Cheese Slices
That's all I can remember
I also started drinking-not daily or anything, but I did drink some beers, coolers etc. Ah, Frosh.
Started to gain weight-Didn't really catch on though, wasn't enough to "show"
By 21-22 I weighed about 160 lbs.
When I moved to the "big city" Toronto in 1991, the world of vegetables opened up for me. I started eating ACTUAL protein. Still hadn't started cooking for myself much, but I was getting there.
Took off 20 lbs that summer thanks to the 20 minute workout, a track close to my apartment and lots and lots of stir fries. I did consume a lot of pink lemonade though....I guess that was fruit.
After a break-up the summer of '93, the weight came back on. And with that something new. A self hatred and disgust for myself. I felt like a failure at everything I was doing.
I covered it up by eating, drinking, smoking pot and dating A LOT.
I gained weight. When in 1993 I moved back home to "find myself" I weighed about 174. I joined WeightWatchers.
Oh so that's how she became a WW leader. NOPE. I joined got the books took 'em home. Lasted a couple weeks. Then it was Susan Powter-STOP THE INSANITY-pizza with out the cheese, carbs, carbs, carbs. My lifestyle didn't help. I went back to University-grudgingly to attempt to finish my music degree. That meant beer, and food, and fried pepperoni....oh, and I had been smoking for about two years at this point. Then, my mother was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Frig.
I am so grateful I was home and able to be with her, throughout her treatment, and ultimately her death in 1995. She was very strong until the end, and had a sense of humour that was unbelievable. She was ready. Thinking back now it gives me the greatest sense of peace. Then, not so much. This was when my first clinical depression hit. I struggled my way though it balancing school, living at home, and working a a freelance musician. It was a small city, with not much work so I ended up back in Toronto. Then things started to change.
Lost some weight-about 155 at this point. Finished school with two diplomas in music performance. Not a degree, but something to show for the years of practising and dedication. Still had some vices, smoking, drinking occasionally, still a party girl-but a balanced one.
The year is 2000. I am heavy-ish 155-160, I have a "real" job, I am freelancing as a performer, and generally enjoying life. But I feel like CRAP. I join WeightWatchers again......this time I at least attend the meetings.
On a gig, I meet someone, Kevin, my wonderful, beautiful, amazing husband. My "Upa Guru"
Everything shifts. Suddenly I am with someone who knows ME. Accepts ME. Loves ME.
Now I just had to start loving myself.
Quit WW after losing 20lbs, joined the Y worked out until our wedding-145 lbs.
2002-Married
2004-Baby 1
2005-miscarriage
2006-Build a house
2007-Baby 2
The week my second child was born. My father, my hero, the sweetest, kindest most loving thing I know was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He survived 2 quadruple bypasses. He was a kind, giving man, who dedicated every ounce of himself to music and music education. He was my world.
I thought it would crash down around me.
I started eating better. Clean. Organic. I lost weight, not much but some. I visited, with the baby, he held her-something he rarely did he was always worried he would drop them! he deteriorated quickly. It was awful, unlike my mother he was not ready, he had so much more to do and give.
He passed away April 14th 2008, at home, surrounded by family.
Now I have two kids, no parents, a new house, a job with a two hour commute. Something has to give. I keep up the healthy eating and I feel....awesome.
I get pregnant. Baby 2 is 6mths old. YAY!
Baby three born March 14th 2008.
Three months later I joined WeightWatchers. Went to EVERY meeting. Did the program. Lost 50 lbs. Changed my freakin' life.
I drink rarely, I don't smoke. I don't eat anything refined (well occasionally, I'm not perfect) I try not to eat gluten, I eat a mostly plant based diet, and I am working on finding the right balance with my eating to give me the nourishment, energy and vitality that I feel inside. And I am studying Holistic Nutrition, and practicing Yoga and Meditation. AND I am happy-not uber crazy happy, but peaceful happy. It is an ongoing process. But one I enjoy waking up to everyday. This is my wish for everyone who has struggled with finding the right balance in their life.
Namaste
Hello I must be going....
Well, I got OFF to a great start.
That is the difficulty when trying create balance in your life. When you have too many balls in the air, one or two, or even three will fall to to the ground.
My balls fell. :) Somewhere between three kids, maintaining a daily meditation and yoga practice, working extra shifts for a co workers vacation. I dropped them. I did however manage to drop them on various days so one day I meditated, another yoga, tried starting a couch to 5k, baked a lot of gluten free zucchini bread......But I wasn't able to keep them all in the air.
I am ok with that. Being ok with that means I can always keep trying. Back to trying to balance the things that I love. Family, healthy food, yoga, music, feeling great. Living my life. Harmony.
Tula.
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
-Gandhi
Namaste
That is the difficulty when trying create balance in your life. When you have too many balls in the air, one or two, or even three will fall to to the ground.
My balls fell. :) Somewhere between three kids, maintaining a daily meditation and yoga practice, working extra shifts for a co workers vacation. I dropped them. I did however manage to drop them on various days so one day I meditated, another yoga, tried starting a couch to 5k, baked a lot of gluten free zucchini bread......But I wasn't able to keep them all in the air.
I am ok with that. Being ok with that means I can always keep trying. Back to trying to balance the things that I love. Family, healthy food, yoga, music, feeling great. Living my life. Harmony.
Tula.
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
-Gandhi
Namaste
Monday, 6 August 2012
Following my bliss....
This week rather than create weekly goals for myself, I have decided to simply follow my bliss. When people hear this I am sure immediately their minds go to luxurious treatments, getaways, not working, perhaps eating and drinking forbidden foods, you name it.
But it is so much more than that.
By taking the time to create an awareness of what I want to do, I create a much more positive energy about EVERYTHING that I do. When you begin to do everything from a positive and loving space, anything and everything seems to get accomplished.
For example:
I am not stressing over the dirty dishes that are sitting in my sink, waiting for me to wash them. Instead I am writing, which is currently my bliss. When I am finished I am much more likely to go and get the dishes done, but with a much better attitude.
So this week, I follow my bliss....Aham anandan!
But it is so much more than that.
By taking the time to create an awareness of what I want to do, I create a much more positive energy about EVERYTHING that I do. When you begin to do everything from a positive and loving space, anything and everything seems to get accomplished.
For example:
I am not stressing over the dirty dishes that are sitting in my sink, waiting for me to wash them. Instead I am writing, which is currently my bliss. When I am finished I am much more likely to go and get the dishes done, but with a much better attitude.
So this week, I follow my bliss....Aham anandan!
Sunday, 5 August 2012
21 Days....
They say it takes 21 days of doing something to make it a habit.
I have just completed day 21 of the Chopra Centre 21 Day Meditation Challenge! Woo Hoo!
So this is not my first foray into the "silence" I have been cultivating a "practice" for the last few years. I am so happy that this last challenge I was able to do the mediations everyday in succession. I have noticed that I am reacting less to situations that would normally send me off my rocker, that I am more appreciative of my surroundings, and that I am quite capable of a daily practice.
So tomorrow I begin a 28 day Challenge, one I was directed to by the owner of my Moksha Studio, from Yoga Journal. I subscribed to the challenge at the beginning of July, but decided to do the familiar Chopra Centre Challenge first. So if the links still work I have 28 more days of stillness ahead of me.
See you in the gap....
Namaste
I have just completed day 21 of the Chopra Centre 21 Day Meditation Challenge! Woo Hoo!
So this is not my first foray into the "silence" I have been cultivating a "practice" for the last few years. I am so happy that this last challenge I was able to do the mediations everyday in succession. I have noticed that I am reacting less to situations that would normally send me off my rocker, that I am more appreciative of my surroundings, and that I am quite capable of a daily practice.
So tomorrow I begin a 28 day Challenge, one I was directed to by the owner of my Moksha Studio, from Yoga Journal. I subscribed to the challenge at the beginning of July, but decided to do the familiar Chopra Centre Challenge first. So if the links still work I have 28 more days of stillness ahead of me.
See you in the gap....
Namaste
Wednesday, 1 August 2012
Weekly Goals Mid-week update!
Weekly goals are coming along:
1.) Drinkin' lots of H20. Yesterday I almost didn't make my quota, but stuck it out b/c I needed to stay hydrated after hot yoga last night, halfway through my quota for today
2.) Sleeping is OK, went to bed late late night, then had some trouble getting to sleep, but eventually got there, up early to do a WW meeting at 7:30 GAH! Snuck in a nap after I taught private lessons today.
3.) Have written down mostly everything I have eaten for the last two days, except today as I left the house at 6:30 with no lunch box. As a result I ate crap.
Here it is-my penance
2 McDonalds breakfast wraps-double suck b/c I do not tolerate wheat or refined carbs-super bloat
Nut Bar
Chinese Take Out- Pepper Steak, Mixed Veggies and Rice Noodles-inhaled
6 squares of Green and Blacks dark choclate mint YUM
Couple ounces deli chicken, fressh green beans from Grandma's garden and some baked potato wedges (thank-you McCain) also sure to cause bloat, and a table spoon of ketchup.
Not so bad but most likely 56 or so PP, with a daily target of 32 to maintain, so hmmmm......perhaps I should go for a run-oh wait-I dont run. GAH
It is not like me to be discouraged though and this will be the best part of this post.
What's done is done. The only thing that matters is this present moment. That is where the power is. At any given moment we have the opportunity to change. Change how we feel, act, eat.
What a gift.
Namaste
1.) Drinkin' lots of H20. Yesterday I almost didn't make my quota, but stuck it out b/c I needed to stay hydrated after hot yoga last night, halfway through my quota for today
2.) Sleeping is OK, went to bed late late night, then had some trouble getting to sleep, but eventually got there, up early to do a WW meeting at 7:30 GAH! Snuck in a nap after I taught private lessons today.
3.) Have written down mostly everything I have eaten for the last two days, except today as I left the house at 6:30 with no lunch box. As a result I ate crap.
Here it is-my penance
2 McDonalds breakfast wraps-double suck b/c I do not tolerate wheat or refined carbs-super bloat
Nut Bar
Chinese Take Out- Pepper Steak, Mixed Veggies and Rice Noodles-inhaled
6 squares of Green and Blacks dark choclate mint YUM
Couple ounces deli chicken, fressh green beans from Grandma's garden and some baked potato wedges (thank-you McCain) also sure to cause bloat, and a table spoon of ketchup.
Not so bad but most likely 56 or so PP, with a daily target of 32 to maintain, so hmmmm......perhaps I should go for a run-oh wait-I dont run. GAH
It is not like me to be discouraged though and this will be the best part of this post.
What's done is done. The only thing that matters is this present moment. That is where the power is. At any given moment we have the opportunity to change. Change how we feel, act, eat.
What a gift.
Namaste
Tuesday, 31 July 2012
Milati
Milati means to "join" in Sanskrit. Today I feel things coming together. Joining.
Today was a day like any other, kids woke up, one tummy ache, one sleepy princess, and a very determined youngest-he knew what he wanted and did it. Sigh. Breakfast, moaning belly-acher who after the threat of the emergency room and some Pink Panther on Netflix felt much better.
Meditation- with kids safely ticked away with the Pink Panther, I did Day 16 of the Chopra Center 21 Day Meditation Challenge. It is a short, guided meditation. I have been working on creating a regular practice for about a year now, it is quite a challenge, but one worth taking.
Paint the nails/toenails of the Princess, send on to swimming, one to Grandma's and it is off to yoga for the Princess
Yoga-Tim Horton's for a bagel (Princess) and a not so nice latte.
Drop Princess, drive to work. Work. Hot Yoga. Home, Snack-Apple, Balderson Cheddar and Rice Crackers and here I am.
So what the %$%^* is this post about? Didn't she say something about joining? Milati?
It would have been very easy to be overwhelmed with everything I had to do today.
But I wasn't
It could have been very easy to lose my patience at work tonight.
But I didn't
I could have been very easy to judge/beat myself up/ feel frustrated with my Yoga Practice.
But I felt good. Peaceful. Relaxed.
All of the parts of my are beginning to join in ways I did not see before. In beautiful amazing ways.
Namaste
Today was a day like any other, kids woke up, one tummy ache, one sleepy princess, and a very determined youngest-he knew what he wanted and did it. Sigh. Breakfast, moaning belly-acher who after the threat of the emergency room and some Pink Panther on Netflix felt much better.
Meditation- with kids safely ticked away with the Pink Panther, I did Day 16 of the Chopra Center 21 Day Meditation Challenge. It is a short, guided meditation. I have been working on creating a regular practice for about a year now, it is quite a challenge, but one worth taking.
Paint the nails/toenails of the Princess, send on to swimming, one to Grandma's and it is off to yoga for the Princess
Yoga-Tim Horton's for a bagel (Princess) and a not so nice latte.
Drop Princess, drive to work. Work. Hot Yoga. Home, Snack-Apple, Balderson Cheddar and Rice Crackers and here I am.
So what the %$%^* is this post about? Didn't she say something about joining? Milati?
It would have been very easy to be overwhelmed with everything I had to do today.
But I wasn't
It could have been very easy to lose my patience at work tonight.
But I didn't
I could have been very easy to judge/beat myself up/ feel frustrated with my Yoga Practice.
But I felt good. Peaceful. Relaxed.
All of the parts of my are beginning to join in ways I did not see before. In beautiful amazing ways.
Namaste
Monday, 30 July 2012
Weekly Goals
Since it is Monday I have decided to create some weekly goals for myself. I like lists. So this week here is what I am prepared to do.
1.) Drink two litres of water a day
2.) Get caught up on sleep
3.) Write down what I eat
Here's why:
1.) Water is good for you. It is the primary component of all bodily fluids. It is cleansing, detoxifies (especially when you add lemon), fills you, has zero calories, helps with weight loss.
Water should be consumed throughout the day, and about an hour before meals, but not after as it can affect your digestive process.
I drink an 8oz glass on rising, and then fill my bottle up after breakfast with ice and lemon. Some people believe you should consume it at room temperature, but I like it cold.
Yes I go to the bathroom a lot. It is the price I pay for feeling good.
2.) Sleep. I have three kids. I have not slept in 8 years. Finally, my kids are all sleeping throught the night. Now is my chance to sleep. I have slept in for the past two mornings-til 8! Shhhh!!! What I have been trying to do is wake up BEFORE everyone else, so I can meditate, do some yoga postures (or go to my favorite studio MOKSHA Peterborough http://peterborough.mokshayoga.ca/home/) for the early morning class) You can imagine what that might entail....This resulted in a very tired, grumpy person so now I have to adjust
CHANGE-there is that word again, well at least until I find the right balance.
Ten years ago waking up at 8:00 AM was AGONIZING. Now it is glorious.
3.) Write down what I eat. As a WeightWatchersTM leader, I talk to my members all the time about the importance of writing dow what you eat. Research shows that people who write down what they eat lose twice as much weight. Though I am just trying to maintain my weight it will be helpful for me to keep things in check by writing them down.
So far I am three for three today!
What will you do this week to spark a change or create more balance in your life??
1.) Drink two litres of water a day
2.) Get caught up on sleep
3.) Write down what I eat
Here's why:
1.) Water is good for you. It is the primary component of all bodily fluids. It is cleansing, detoxifies (especially when you add lemon), fills you, has zero calories, helps with weight loss.
Water should be consumed throughout the day, and about an hour before meals, but not after as it can affect your digestive process.
I drink an 8oz glass on rising, and then fill my bottle up after breakfast with ice and lemon. Some people believe you should consume it at room temperature, but I like it cold.
Yes I go to the bathroom a lot. It is the price I pay for feeling good.
2.) Sleep. I have three kids. I have not slept in 8 years. Finally, my kids are all sleeping throught the night. Now is my chance to sleep. I have slept in for the past two mornings-til 8! Shhhh!!! What I have been trying to do is wake up BEFORE everyone else, so I can meditate, do some yoga postures (or go to my favorite studio MOKSHA Peterborough http://peterborough.mokshayoga.ca/home/) for the early morning class) You can imagine what that might entail....This resulted in a very tired, grumpy person so now I have to adjust
CHANGE-there is that word again, well at least until I find the right balance.
Ten years ago waking up at 8:00 AM was AGONIZING. Now it is glorious.
3.) Write down what I eat. As a WeightWatchersTM leader, I talk to my members all the time about the importance of writing dow what you eat. Research shows that people who write down what they eat lose twice as much weight. Though I am just trying to maintain my weight it will be helpful for me to keep things in check by writing them down.
So far I am three for three today!
What will you do this week to spark a change or create more balance in your life??
Change
"Be the change you want to see in the world" -Gandhi
Change is difficult. Changing your life........
I have been changing for about 10 years now. It is an ongoing process that has led me here. The last ten years for me involved getting married, having three kids, the death of my father and father-in-law, building a new house and moving from the city to the country, getting my driver's liscense at 38, losing 50+ pounds, two new jobs,treatment for anxiety and depression, beginning a yoga practice at 41 and my husband opening his own business.
Still breathing.....
I know that I have not surpassed insurmountable odds as many have, I am healthy, getting fit, emotionally strong and my family is amazing. I am a very lucky person.
This blog is about my quest to create balance in my life. Balance in family, career, health and spirit.
I hope is that you will find inspiration, hope, humour and love in my posts.
Namaste
Jane
Change is difficult. Changing your life........
I have been changing for about 10 years now. It is an ongoing process that has led me here. The last ten years for me involved getting married, having three kids, the death of my father and father-in-law, building a new house and moving from the city to the country, getting my driver's liscense at 38, losing 50+ pounds, two new jobs,treatment for anxiety and depression, beginning a yoga practice at 41 and my husband opening his own business.
Still breathing.....
I know that I have not surpassed insurmountable odds as many have, I am healthy, getting fit, emotionally strong and my family is amazing. I am a very lucky person.
This blog is about my quest to create balance in my life. Balance in family, career, health and spirit.
I hope is that you will find inspiration, hope, humour and love in my posts.
Namaste
Jane
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