Anticipation

Can you believe it? The middle of August is almost here.

As fall approaches, many parts of the world usually experience a shift from hot summer weather to cooler autumn temperatures.

Unfortunately, this year, numerous regions in North America and around the globe are facing extreme weather conditions. These include thunderstorms, wildfires, poor air quality, heavy rain, flash floods, hurricanes, and typhoons, causing devastating effects.

My thoughts are with all those who are struggling through these difficult times.

Hopefully, the weather will improve over the next few weeks, bringing much-needed relief.

As we transition to autumn, there are several advantages to the cooler weather. Sunsets become even more stunning, seasonal activities take centre stage, and days, evenings and nights are more pleasant.

I’m eagerly anticipating the arrival of autumn because it provides a respite from the oppressive summer heat that is difficult for me. For this reason, I can hardly wait to snuggle under a cozy blanket with a hot beverage and a captivating book.

And the beauty of nature during fall is something to behold. The vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues create a picturesque scene that makes you want to explore the great outdoors.

With autumn just around the corner, soon it will be time to channel your inner child and hunt for the perfect pumpkin to carve.

Fall is also about indulging in delicious warm treats—apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, and let's not forget about Thanksgiving feasts!

Fall fashion is something to get excited about too. I can finally layer my clothes and pull out my cozy sweaters, scarves, and boots. Who doesn't love putting on a soft, oversized sweater?

From Halloween to Thanksgiving, fall is a time for family and friends to come together and create beautiful memories.

Decorating your home with spooky Halloween decorations or setting up a warm and inviting ambiance for Thanksgiving dinner brings people together and creates a comforting atmosphere to enjoy.

I might be rushing things here with the chilly prospect of fall, but the sooner cooler weather arrives, the better.

And for all the yoga enthusiasts out there, Studio 71 Yoga will soon welcome you to the rejuvenating practice of yoga. I’ll post the Fall 2023 schedule soon.

Regardless of your experience level, regularly attending yoga classes provides numerous benefits for your physical and mental wellbeing.

Reconnecting with your body, increasing flexibility, strengthening muscles, and enhancing your overall fitness are just some physical benefits of regular yoga.

As you might already know, my yoga classes offer more than physical benefits. We also incorporate breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation to increase self-awareness, reduce anxiety, and foster a positive mindset.

As autumn approaches and the weather cools, you’ll soon be witnessing stunning fall landscapes and forging unforgettable moments while making lasting memories with family and friends—as well as with fellow yoga practitioners, whether you're meeting them for the first time or reuniting with dear friends.

With joy and gratitude,

Jeannine

Free Gifts—Meditations, eBooks, Quizzes, and More

I’m participating in a fun giveaway with some of my colleagues. It’s called the Live Your Bliss Giveaway.

While we’re a diverse group of professionals, what we all have in common is our desire to help people move beyond the superficial busyness of our daily lives and into the more profound peace within—you know, bliss!

You can explore and download great gifts—courses, meditations, ebooks, quizzes, toolkits, etc. Interested? Check them out here.

The giveaway closes next week, so have a look. There will undoubtedly be something—or some things—to help you live more fully in your genuine Self.

With joy and gratitude,

Jeannine

Stay Cool, Calm and Collected

Summer should be a season of bliss and easy living, but it can often come with aggravation—from high temperatures and increased traffic to disrupted schedules and vacation planning.

Below are ten tips for everyday summer stressors:

1. Beat the heat. High temperatures can cause lethargy, and tempers can flare. Ensure your fans and air conditioning are working properly, stay hydrated, and dress in lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.

2. Have a traffic plan. Expect the roads to be busier, and plan for your travels. With summer road construction, traffic jams are inevitable. Consider alternative routes and leave earlier to avoid traffic. Utilize public transportation or carpool with friends and family when possible.

3. Keep the kids entertained. Plan for childcare and activities if you're juggling work and having your children or grandchildren at home during the summer. Look for summer camps or create a schedule with designated activities and events. And remember—all that running around can cause more stress, so include some downtime.

4. Plan your vacation with care. Vacations should be a time to relax and unwind. However, whether you visit family or they visit you, stress is inevitably packed in someone’s suitcase. Avoid last-minute planning by creating a detailed itinerary beforehand. Consider budget cuts to reduce costs. Plan for a buffer day so that you can adjust to catching up on other tasks upon your return.

5. Stay on top of work responsibilities. Summertime can lead to extra workloads before and after your vacation. It can also be a slow time for some businesses, affecting income. And it can mean more work for some seasonal businesses. Either way, stress can result. Make a to-do list and tackle more significant assignments earlier in the day when you’re most motivated.

6. Tackle home chores efficiently. Take care of your home and garden regularly in small increments of time. Prioritize your tasks, and don’t try to tackle everything at once. Consider delegating chores to others or hiring a professional.

7. Prioritize your leisure activities. Don’t overcommit yourself by trying to do everything. Schedule time for relaxation and self-care, and choose activities that best fit your interests.

8. Be aware of alcohol consumption. More outdoor and leisure time may mean you’re busier than ever—perhaps drinking and partying more. Being responsible and safe is essential. Drink in moderation and always have a designated driver. Be mindful of others' experiences and tolerance of noise levels, as well as your own.

9. Celebrate your body. Wearing lighter clothing—and fewer clothes—can come with increased self-consciousness. Summertime can bring up body issues along with sleepless tops, shorts and bathing suits. It’s important to embrace your body and celebrate it! Wear clothing that you feel confident and comfortable in.

10. Choose healthier food options. Summer often includes indulging in junk food and fast food, and it may be too hot to cook. A healthy summer diet can improve your mood and reduce stress levels, so opt for lighter, fresher, easy-to-prepare meals, such as salads and grilled vegetables.

In addition, remember these top five stress reducers:

• Breathe (deeply and slowly)

• Lighten Up (laugh, smile, be playful, and have fun)

• Change (locations, activities, or people you’re with)

• Be Physical (exercise, walk, play a game, weed/garden)

• Relax (in the tub, take a nap or a shower, sit in the sun/shade, do nothing)

And Do Something Nice or Kind for someone or the planet (it doesn’t have to be big, and it can be anonymous).

Following these tips can make your summer a fantastic time full of relaxation, fun, and healthy habits.

With joy and gratitude,

Jeannine

Author’s content adapted and used under license, © Claire Communications

Relax and Enjoy the Ride

In Winnipeg, across Canada and elsewhere, hot weather arrived earlier than usual after a short transition from spring to summer. The persistent hot and humid weather here has become almost unbearable for me. Temperatures have soared to over 30 degrees Celsius (well over 40 degrees with the humidity index) day after day for over a month.

I’m grateful I have central air conditioning to stay cool and refreshed in my home. For others who are less fortunate, the heat has forced them to seek refuge in air-conditioned buildings and make frequent visits to public splash pads and pools.

With the arrival of hot summer weather, it's understandable if you feel less motivated to practice yoga. But not to worry—taking a break from yoga during the summer can be highly beneficial.

It's helpful to remember that taking breaks for rest and recovery is just as crucial as maintaining a consistent yoga practice. Giving yourself time off from yoga can enhance your strength and concentration. You’ll notice these improvements when you return to your practice.

Summer vacation also provides a chance to try new physical activities and experiences. Whether hiking, swimming, playing pickleball, or taking leisurely walks in nature, moving your body in different ways can be incredibly rejuvenating.

Hesitant about taking a break from yoga? There are many ways to stay connected to your practice. You can integrate mindfulness into your daily routine, practice seated or walking meditations, or explore restorative yoga poses that leave you feeling rested and restored.

Above all, listen to your body and honour your needs. Taking a break from yoga during summer vacation can help you rest, recharge, and reconnect with your practice in new and exciting ways.

Trust that you know what's best for you, and give yourself the space and time to make it happen.

Embrace summer, explore new opportunities, and relax and enjoy the ride.

If a road trip is in your plans, travel safely and be well.

With joy and gratitude,

Jeannine

International Yoga Day 2023

Hello fellow yogis and friends.

Last week, I kicked off a short series of in-person pop-up yoga classes at my home studio, and it was a heartwarming experience to see long-time yoga friends reunite after three-and-a-half long years. Shouts of surprise, happiness, and warm embraces filled the air. I’m grateful to be able to offer this post-pandemic yoga practice to my community.

This week, it’s International Yoga Day on Wednesday, June 21st.

International Yoga Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. The resolution was proposed by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The UN unanimously adopted it, recognizing that yoga provides a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

The Indian Prime Minister, Modi, chose June 21st for this annual event because it’s the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere (summer solstice) and has significance in many parts of the world. In Canada, for instance, we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on this date, recognizing and honouring the history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.

The first International Yoga Day was celebrated on June 21st, 2015, and is observed annually across the globe.

In India, International Yoga Day is marked by large-scale events attended by thousands of people, including political leaders, celebrities, and yoga enthusiasts.

Locally, yoga organizations and studios offer various activities, such as classes, workshops, and retreats, to celebrate and promote the benefits of yoga.

Although I’m not offering any classes or workshops on International Yoga Day, I invite you to join me the following day—Thursday, June 22nd (and/or June 29) from 9:30-10:30 a.m.—for an energizing practice that ends with a profoundly relaxing savasana.

Each class costs $20, and a few spots are still available. This is an opportunity not to be missed. Click the button below to register.

And now, looking ahead, I’m excited to announce that I’m considering adding in-person classes to Studio 71 Yoga offerings on Monday evenings from 7-8 p.m. starting in Fall 2023 (more details to follow).

If you’re interested, join the waitlist today, as space is limited, and spots will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

I wish you joy and gratitude as you celebrate International Yoga Day and National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Jeannine