Mountain Views News Saturday, March 1, 2014
11HEALTHY LIFESTYLES Mountain Views News Saturday, March 1, 2014
11HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
THE JOY OF YOGA
AN INTERVIEW WITH THE
TEACHER OF THE MONTH
This is a partial excerpt from an interview for the Para Yoga Featured
Teacher of the month for February - René Quenell.
1. What inspires you to teach yoga? (sva dharma)
What inspires me to teach is the amazing power of the tradition. It’s so
cool the way we can start with a physical practice and transform into
shining lights! The process fills me with joy. Even when I think I don’t have any words left to say, I will
invoke my teachers and all this great knowledge comes pouring out. And when I run into students
years later they say “I remember what you said and how it changed the way I….”. If I can help them
on the path in even the littlest way – I am inspired.
2. How has the practice of Para Yoga transformed your life? (tantra)
In a nutshell, I went from a very small self to an expression of Her. Well, at least that is the whole
focus of my work. Discipline, self-study, practice and meditation continue to show me the way. I feel
like I have grown up. I am so very thankful for the transformation that I can barely stand it! From
my first class with Yogarupa Rod Stryker 12 years ago, I knew this was the path for me. Through the
teachings I have become a more authentic person. I am a better wife, mom, daughter, friend, teacher
and most importantly a better version of myself. I wrapped my whole life in them and my life became
wonderful.
3. In what way have you seen the principles of ParaYoga help to transform the life of your students?
(parampara)
They are getting shiny. I can see the truth of them emerging. They are learning to face and overcome
challenges. I love when I see less drama in their lives. It is so beautiful to see them quiet. Many of
them have seen the difference in me and they want that too. They believe in it and it shows in their
sense of power and compassion, like flowers blooming around me. I know – that sounds corny – but
it’s true!
I'll send ya'll the rest of the article next week. :) See you in class...
Namasté,
René
YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO GET SICK IN
THIS ECONOMY by Dennis R. Buckley, D.C.
check-ups regularly and avoid risky behavior.
THE EXTRA They are taking the road less traveled compared
MILE, A to the majority. They are going the extra mile for
their health. They are not just doing enough to ROAD LESS TRAVELED "get by."
This is true in school, athletics, business, and in
They say it is lonely at the top. Why? Most people families. People are looking for the minimum
do not put in the work, focus and dedication to to get by and they will "get by". However they
reach their goals. They quit before they arrive. want the abundance that is mysteriously avoid-
This is mostly because it is at times difficult. ing them. The truly abundant do more than get
by, they go the extra mile and do more than the
When it comes to health, we find that many peo-rest. They focus on the outcomes they want. They
ple are not as healthy as they could or should be. discipline themselves in the areas that are related
Really you say. Let's look at the facts. to abundant health.
• Over 60% of the US population is overweight Are you on the road less traveled? Are you going
• Over 30% are obese the extra mile for your health or have you barely
• Less than 15% of the people get the recom-taken the next step. Trusting that the government
mended amount of exercise is going to provide you health is not a good bet.
• The average person watches 4 to 6 hours of The only thing you can and should count on is
TV everydayyour own efforts.
• Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer and autoimmune
diseases rise every yearThere is an abundance of resources available to
These problems are 90% lifestyle related. Most us to make the changes necessary. We need more
people are not putting in the work or discipline and more people to walk the road less traveled. If
needed to be healthy. Think about the healthiest you want to get healthier, happier and whole, go
and happiest people you know. I bet that most of where few dare to travel, the extra mile. Good
them are disciplined enough to eat right, exercise health is a road we all need to be on.
regularly, get proper rest, have a great attitude, get
Dr. Tina is a traditional
naturopath and nutritionist
at Vibrant Living
Wellness Center
HOW DO I GET MY FAMILY
EATING HEALTHIER?
My clients ask me this question often. You have decided to get healthier,
maybe lose some weight and in doing so you want to eat better. How do
you get your family or spouse onboard? The first step is to take the time
to plan out your meals for the week. This should be a family affair. Ask
your family to search for recipes they would like to try. Then vote on the
ones your family will eat for the week. These meals can be easy to make.
They may even be some of your family’s favorites but just prepared in a
different fashion. Say you family likes roasted chicken and sweet potato
fries. You could cut your own sweet potatoes into fries and bake them in
the oven and grill skinless chicken and mixed veggies on the grill. The
key in grilling is to use herbs and seasoning your family likes. In many
dishes especially chicken, herbs are where the dish gets its flavor.
Another option is to go out to a healthy restaurant and have everyone
taste each other’s food. Then go home and try to recreate the dish in
a healthier fashion. Most all dishes prepared from scratch at home are
healthier than prepared purchased foods or foods eaten in restaurants
because you can omit or reduce sugar, oil, excessive salt and preservatives. You can also chose to use
all organic foods as a way to make meals healthier.
Another tip is to visit the produce aisle or a farmers market with your kids. Ask them to pick out
interesting or unusual vegetables. Then base the coming weeks menu on your finds. Kids will be more
apt to try something new if they scouted it out and saw it before it was clean and prepared.
Whenever possible involve your
kids and even husband in the
meal planning, purchasing and
preparation. The more involved your
family is in meal choices the more
invested they will become. Also be
realistic, not every choice will be a
hit but if you put some effort into
this, your family can adopt some
new healthier food options.
We’d like to hear from you!
What’s on YOUR Mind?
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