One activity that I love just as much as yoga is running. This “love” has not always been in my life though. As an adolescent, I was an athlete, but I did not enjoy “exercise” exactly. I liked practices; I liked competition; I liked the social aspect of sports; and, I liked being active and healthy. But, to just step on a treadmill or hit the trail seemed like torture to me. In fact, we had to do land training at the beginning of a competitive swim season in high school, and I can remember literally needing to vomit after the first run. I hated it.

As I got older, I realized that without organized sports I would have to “exercise” to keep in shape. I tried a variety of aerobics classes and trainers, but nothing seemed easier and faster than running. So, my running experience started by getting out there and running as fast as I could just to burn as many calories as I could in the shortest amount of time. The whole time telling myself how much I hated it.

As I “grew up”, my priorities changed, my perception of the world changed, and my ideas about my body and my health also changed. I realized my mental health was as important as my physical health, and my physical health had more to do with a healthy body image than being my size 2 jeans. Just a side note – kids probably had much to do with this since they forced the size 2 jeans out the window!

I had started yoga about 10 years ago, but it was not until the last few years that my yoga practice moved out of the competitive arena. Yes, I said competitive. It sounds counter-intuitive that yoga could be competitive, but, it can be for many people. Not only do many people start out comparing themselves to other more advanced yogis, but they (me included) continuously are in comparison with what they think they “ought to be”. It was not until I embarked on a deeper yoga practice with my teacher training that I was able to find the beautiful, non-competitive, self-expressive form of yoga I practice today.

As my yoga became less competitive, my negative thoughts towards my body and practice seemed to disappear, and in the end my total attitude towards life began to change. I realized that I was more than enough in all circumstances. There was no need to be anything else or do any more. I realized that I was going to get to where I was going when I was supposed to get there, no matter how hard I pushed or tried make it happen. I realized being “here now” was so much better than living in the past or the future. I also took great satisfaction when I tried something new in yoga. Yoga made it easy for me to be proud of new accomplishments, but willing to let go self-defeating statements to myself if I was not able to do every single pose in a particular class. It was the “path without a goal” that yoga taught me.

So, it was with these realizations that I embarked into the world of running again. With the push of a few friends wanting to do a race, I started training and to my surprise this time it was not like running my head into a wall. I slowed down. I listened to my body and did what I could on that particular day. I enjoyed being outside in nature with my thoughts. Before I knew it, I was running 6 miles at a time and by the end of that year I completed my first half marathon.

Now, I am not saying that starting a running program is always this easy for everyone. But, I do believe that embarking on any new exercise program, activity, or adventure takes a yogi’s mind. Ever present; non-competitive, but ready to shine in accomplishment; willing to always give it shot, but even more willing to let go.

Now whether I am doing yoga or running or just maneuvering life’s path, I just put one foot in front of the other a enjoy the scenery. There is a famous quote that says, “Yoga doesn’t make life easier, but, with yoga, you get easier with life.” And, I think that is what yoga did for my running. Yoga made me easier with running.

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If you are interested in running and/or yoga, I am starting a Yoga and Running Group at the Bindu Yoga & Wellness on January 11, 2012. It will be held Wednesdays from 11-12:30pm. There is a 4 week option or an 8 week option. Click for full details and to register.

What draws you to teach at the Bindu?

The Bindu’s loving environment and positive energy draw’s me to want to be a part of their kula.  It is a place for me to grow as a teacher and student and continue to share what I love, YOGA.

What advice do you have for people just starting yoga?
My advice to anyone just starting yoga is to just show up!  Once you step onto the mat, take a DEEP breath and open your heart and mind. 

What is your favorite yoga posture?
My favorite posture is Mermaid.  I am a water kind of girl, so when I come to this posture I feel free, completely open, and expansive. 

What posture are you currently working on?
I am currently working on hand balances, since learning the principles of Anusara I am able to express my postures in a new light.  My favorite to work on when I am around the house and need a break from the real world is Pincha Mayurasana (forearm stand).  Every once in a while I ‘ll try Dragonfly II with hand to chin;-)

What is your favorite soapbox to get on?
What soapbox do I not like to get on!  I will talk to anyone about anything.  However, the one that everyone knows and they say, “here she goes” is Wellness and a Holistic lifestyle.  My Husband, Nick and I are both working toward a Nutrition Consultant certification and everything we learn we want to share with the world.  

What is the last book you read?
The last book I read was “A Better Way to Live” by Og Mandino. He is such an inspirational and loveable author who keeps it real.  His book gives you 17 basic rules to live by daily.  My favorite is #17  “Realize that true happiness lies within you.  Waste no time and effort searching for peace and contentment and joy in the world outside. Remember that there is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving.  Reach out. Share. Smile. Hug. Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself.”

What is the last yoga book you read?
The last yoga book I read was a life changer, “Anusura Yoga Teacher Training Manual”, by John Friend.  I will continue to read and re-read! 

What draws you to teach at the Bindu?

I have been practicing Yoga for thirteen years now.  I feel like I have learned more from being a student at the Bindu this year than I ever have in any other style of teaching.  I attribute this growth to the alignment principles of Anusara Yoga.  I have been able to explore my physical practice and open into postures in ways I never have before.   I am very excited to join the Bindu.  I look forward to be a part of this loving community of teachers, which can only help me become an even better Yoga student, and therefore a better teacher.

What advice do you have for people first starting yoga?

I enjoy sharing the following advice with beginning students:

1. Remember to breathe.  To me, breathing deeply in a Yoga posture means finding your truth.  If I cannot breathe deeply, I am not being true to my body, mind or spirit.  I encourage students to back out a little, breathe deeper to find you can expand in ways you never imagined.
2. We all have to start somewhere.  All Yoga students have been in your very same position at some point in their practice.  We have all experienced our first Yoga class.  Yoga can be whatever you want it to be.  However, at first, I encourage it to be about you learning to listen to your body.  Try not to compare yourself to the people around you.  It is your personal journey on and off your mat.
3. Everything in Yoga builds on one another.  Even if you think you already know a posture, explore it and trust that something new will build upon it.

What is your favorite yoga posture?

I love pigeon pose.  It stretches me in all the right places.  Early in my practice, it was my most dreaded pose.  Now, I have learned to respect pigeon and could hang out and enjoy the juiciness for days!

What posture are you currently working on?

I am currently working on Handstand.  It has been the hardest arm balance for me to master.  I am working on it and getting closer every day!

What is your favorite soapbox to get on?

I am extremely passionate about holistic nutrition.  Many people do not realize the impact food has on our entire lives.  I would love to single handedly take down artificial sweeteners, soda companies, and the concept of calories.  To me – it is not about how many calories are in our food, it is about the quality of our food.  Oh wait, I am on my soapbox!

What is the last book you read?

I am thrilled about my latest read, “Mutant Message Down Under” by Marlo Morgan.  It is an amazing tale about a woman who unexpectedly goes on a mystical journey with an Aborigines Tribe in Australia.  Definitely one of my top five books!

What is the last yoga book you read?
I am in the middle of re-reading the Bhagavad Gita.  I am in a different place in life now than I was when I first read it.  I am enjoying the lessons on a whole new spiritual level than before. 

What draws you to teach at the Bindu?

I am drawn to teach at the Bindu to expand and connect in the yoga community. I look forward to reconnecting with some of teachers and students that I used to be around when Kelley had her other studio.

What advice do you have for people first starting yoga? Enjoy the process, the transitions, the sensation of coming into awareness and deeper conciousness. Let the practice of yoga be the path into being fully who you are.Take your time…no goals.

What is your favorite yoga posture? That’s a hard question….maybe forearm balance but I do like malasana too. Really I don’t like or dislike any of them. They all present different offerings.

What posture are you currently working on? No particular posture just trying to create as much balance and ease in all of them. What is your favorite soapbox to get on? I guess that would be ranting about the Xbox that my kids are addicted to. Just ask Mary Kennedy!!

What is the last yoga book you read? Well, it seems I never finish one. I poke in and out of them. I’ve been reading Sri Aurobindo The Synthesis of Yoga, Yoga Pradipika by Swami Muktibodhananda, and Effortless Being by Alistair Shearer.

How did you become interested in massage therapy? What was your favorite part of your training to become a massage therapist?
I became interested in massage therapy when my mom’s Multiple Sclerosis was brought out of remission and she was experiencing intense muscle pain. After researching her condition, I discovered that massage therapy can be much more than a simple relaxation session.

My favorite part of training was discovering the many ways to help people heal with massage therapy. While participating in “student clinics” working with the public, a woman who had Fibromyalgia came to me regularly. It was amazing to see such an overall transformation in her entire demeanor.

I know there are a lot of different styles of massage therapy like swedish and deep tissue.  What are your favorite ways to work with someone’s body and why?
I really enjoy the opportunity to provide a client with relaxing and useful sessions. My favorite massage style is myofascial release (another form of deep tissue). I feel that the benefit for the client is long lasting, especially for chronic conditions.

You have mentioned that you use Bamboo in one of your massages. What is that and how is it used?
Bamboo Fusion is a relatively new massage type. It incorporates the use of warm bamboo and massage oils to provide a very luxurious massage. It can be done with light or deep pressure, but using the warm sticks allows the muscles to loosen and the therapist to get deeper into the client’s problem area providing for longer lasting results.

Can you tell us what makes Samantha Rossello’s massage therapy special?
I pride myself on  creating a special experience for each client by customizing every massage based not only on what a person tells me, but also what they say with body language. I think as a massage therapist the most important thing you can do is listen and observe before, during and after a session. Incorporating a couple, or maybe even several different massage styles, is most beneficial for a client.

What brought you to the Bindu?

What keeps you coming?
I keep coming because I can tell a difference in my body and in my life.  I am stronger in body and spirit and have made great friends.  And of course there’s lunch…for several years we have had a group to lunch immediately after our Tuesday and Thursday class.  We would love for anyone to join us.  We mostly do soups and salads and gripe about our teacher!

What do you get out of your practice?
What I get from my practice is difficult to put into words, but I’ll try!  I have had 2 bad accidents in my life – l in 1992 and l in 2007.  I dealt with the 2nd – mentally, physically & emotionally – so much better than the lst, and I know that my yoga practice was in large part responsible.  It has made me not only physically stronger but gives me a confidence that I know I did not have before.

What’s a challenging pose that you are growing to love?
My most recent challenging pose (and there are many!)  – backbends.  I am amazed that I am able to do a backbend unassisted, though of course with all sorts of props.  My older son is horrified – he thinks it’s not safe for “a woman my age” to be doing this. . .

What does Open to Grace mean to you?
I think Open to Grace means a willingness to try new things with joy instead of dread and to approach our practice with a ”how wonderful” attitude. It’s difficult to put into words what my yoga practice has really meant to me. Surely it has made me stronger and more self-confident, but also has changed my life in so many other ways, giving me more joy in the journey and a closer connection to the divine in all of us.

By: Marty Kestin, Ensoma Bodyworks

Ice vs. heat:   Knowing which to use with an acute injury maybe the difference between a fast and easy or a slow and painful return to full activity.

When you pull a back or leg muscle in yoga class or doing yard work you are micro – tearing muscle fibers. As a result the area becomes inflamed.  You should always ice inflammation.  How do you know if there is still inflammation two or three days after the injury?  There are 5 cardinal signs:

1. Swelling – fluid rushes to the injury.
2. Pain – from chemicals released by the body.
3. Heat – Increased blood flow to area.
4. Redness – enlarged blood vessels.
5. Loss of function – from  pain and swelling.

Ice any acute injury for 48-72 hours for 10-15 minutes. Envelope the entire area plus a little more with ice – do not just put an ice pack on most of the injury.  Why? Secondary cell death. The body has cells, like little Pac men, that clean and eat up the torn tissue and a little healthy tissue around the injury site – just like a surgeon who removes a tumor then also the healthy tissue around the tumor to ensure all the cancer is removed.  Ice 3 times a day like this for 2-3 days and you will be amazed at how much faster your recovery is.

So when do I use  heat?
About 2-3 days after a mild to moderate muscle pull.   Can you ice and heat an injury together?  Yes.  Just be sure there is no swelling as heat will perpetuate it.  I.E. If, on the 2nd or 3rd day after I strain my back, I wake up and my back is achy but not painful to the touch or swollen I will use heat. That night I will ice to reduce swelling that accumulated from the day’s activities. In short ice any acute injury for 2-3 days then it becomes a continuum of heat or ice until the injury  is healed.

mkestin@ensomabodyworks.com • 704.335.8115 • www.EnsomaBodyWorks.com

What brought you to the Bindu?
At 5’8” and 175 lbs, I am a BIG girl. I was never athletic and my talents were concentrated on sitting down and doing art projects. While I was growing up and while raising kids, I tried to lose weight and in the process got into walking and  jogging. Soon my knees started to hurt and I had constant back problems. Fast forward to 1993. I moved to NC and met Lucy Ravich who was an avid Yogi. We became friends and finally in 2002 she convinced me to take my first Yoga class with Kelley. At the time, my schedule allowed me to practice only once a week on Sundays and so for years it was Yoga once a week for me with different local teachers. It was Lucy again who said that it was time to go to the next level and that I should try the Bindu and Kelley’s class.

What keeps you coming?
I love Yoga and the benefits I get from practicing. Since I joined the Bindu, I feel that I am being challenged every class and that I am getting stronger by the week. My body is moving in ways that I did not know it could. I feel that I walk straighter and I am thinking about the Yoga principles such as; keep the side body long, pull your shoulders back, soften the upper palate. I also find that the classes are fun, because you never know what Kelley will ask us to do next, and although the basic principals are the same, we practice them in so many different ways.

What do you get out of your practice?
In addition to feeling really good physically (how many 60+ year olds can do all the things we do in class?), I use the breath work to calm down and even go to sleep. I can center and calm my thoughts in stressful situations. I can focus better.

What challenging pose are you growing to love?
Balancing poses are very challenging to me. I am starting to love them now that I understand the principal of pulling everything into the center and firing up my legs. I hope to be able to do Eagle with the same ease that I do a Downward Facing Dog.

In my last blog, I talked about Grief and Chronic Pain and the four emotions one needs to go through in order to be happy and well -adjusted with a chronic illness or a life changing injury.

One of those energies is “bargaining.” It’s the one I see most with clients who continually struggle to change their habits in order to undo the bodily damage their current habits have created.

Some of us have committed to changing for the better but continually do something  counterproductive to the change we want. One reason why we fail is an underlying energetic block, deficiency or imbalance in the chakra system.  Yes me, Mr. Muscle and Dr. Trigger point sees the body as more than just soft tissue.

Anodea Judith, in her workbook “Eastern Body Western Mind,” beautifully lays out the Chakra system. She presents each chakra’s purpose, symptoms of deficiency, excess and blockages and offers healing exercises to bring balance to the entire chakra system. She clearly compares psychological problems with the correlating chakra issue.

I have used this book in my own life with success and I recommend Anodea’s teachings for clients who are having trouble with commitment. Those that do the chakra healing work slowly become more resilient in their commitments.

Anodea uses the example of a woman who desperately wants to lose weight but always fails in her commitments of new eating and exercising habits. Why? Unknowingly there is an unconscious emotion and specific chakra deficiency that sabotages her.

I think this explains why people “bargain” with lifestyle and habit changes.  Rationalizing why fast food is easier than prepping breakfast and not having enough time to get on the yoga mat 4 times a week may just be a chakra issue.

If you’re having trouble making some positive changes in your life, check out Anodea’s  website, explore the chakra system, buy a product and do some chakra work.  Self – defeating talk, negative patterns, lack of motivation and other roadblocks to success will begin to transform into positive self – talk with motivated, positive and constructive behavior.

Marty has been integrating chakra work into his bodywork practice successfully for the past 2 years.
mkestin@ensomabodyworks.com • 704.335.8115 • www.EnsomaBodyWorks.com

I was at an acupuncture seminar recently and one of the attendees from the audience asked the acupuncture physician during one of his demonstrations: “I’ve always heard that acupuncture can be quite helpful with infertility and difficulty conceiving. Is this really true?” In typical old-style Chinese teaching fashion he replied, rather emphatically “Look how many people we got in China! What do you think?!”

If you are having difficulty conceiving, or know someone who is then read on. Acupuncture is a truly phenomenal medicine and for centuries has helped women have a healthy conception, pregnancy and delivery.

So then how does putting tiny needles in my skin help me conceive?
There are many reasons why a woman may be having difficulty getting pregnant. In general, however, in Chinese Medicine conception, pregnancy and delivery require and ample amount of energy (or Qi) and Blood and that they be in harmonious circulation for everything to work smoothly. Acupuncture, and sometimes, herbal supplement, can help ensure all these components are present and interacting as they should be.

Your body is a garden, metaphorically speaking.
Ancient Chinese acupuncturists often referred to a woman’s womb as a garden. “When planting a seed in your garden you first prepare the soil. You make sure there is plenty of rich soil to work with, you add fertilizer and water, you remove all weeds and rocks, you protect the area and churn the soil to make it soft and ready to receive roots. Then, when a seed is planted a strong and healthy plant will take root and grow. Preparing for a baby is just the same.” How elegant! I couldn’t have said it better myself. Acupuncture and herbs are the tools for preparing the internal environment to support a new life.

Whether you are having trouble conceiving, know someone who is or would just like to find out more about how acupuncture can help you find optimum health for pregnancy come by the Bindu any Thursday from 1:00 – 5:30 or give us a call at AcuCare Clinic 704-483-5441.

Abe Rummage, AcuCare Clinic, 704-483-5441, www.AcuCareClinic.com