yogagurl

Manifestation Board, Vision Board 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 05:15:00 +0000

Yay! Yes I love starting off the New Year with a visual collage of my inspirations and intentions for the year. A vision board, manifestation board, contrary to popular belief a Vision Board doesn't have to be things you want to have ( ie. that new phone, and all that stuff ). What about a vision board of people places, things that inspire you, that you are passionate about. For me it is friendship, nature, the beauty all around me... Better yet ---how about finding images of the things which you would like to offer the world this year; Friendship, Love, Creativity, Inspiration, Focus, Clarity, Flow, Projects...whatever it is, try creating visuals to inspire you. You can do it the old fashioned way: a collage on a larger paper or I like to do them on my computer as a slide show or movie set to inspiring music and words! Let me know how it goes and send me some of your links, maybe I'll send you mine!

Happy Visioning!

Yogagurl

ps
check out some some useful blogs on how to make your own vision board online...here's one...
http://christinekane.com/blog/how-to-make-a-vision-board/

Great Holiday Eco Gift Idea ---Will have you OM OM OM - ing!

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 21:40:00 +0000

Hello Fellow Eco-seekers,

NOW you can wear the most sacred syllable at your throat chakra and smile!
"OM" The sound that represents the essence of the universe...

Yogagurl loves this beautiful handmade eco-friendly OM pendant by Designer Paula Audette so much she is sharing it with you!

Be sure to leave your friends smiling and a price that won't stretch your wallet. Only $22 !!

BONUS: Comes in a sweet eco envelope ready to gift!

Order it by December 9 os ASAP to guarantee holiday shipping

Yogagurl Special OFFER
1) Buy one get the second and 1/2 OFF
http://www.yogagurl.com/shop
2) Order any items on Paula's blog mention "yogagurl loves you" and get free shipping
http://www.etsy.com/shop/paviadesigns

Relaxation cd by Yogagurl gets reviewed in Eco guide

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:45:00 +0000

Check out the awesome review in this great eco guide! We are thrilled. Thank you Editor Mary, you rock! The press seems to love our cd---you can check out sound samples of the relaxation cd at www.cdbaby.com

the hip eco guide:

http://www.ecocentricguide.ca/feature.php?ecosection=ecoCARE

Krishna Daas Concert In Hawaii, Review,

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 16:11:00 +0000

December 6, 2009 HAWAII. yogagurl meets Krishna Das at the concert

Over the years as yoga has become more popular, the ancient practice of kirtan (“KEER-tahn”), or yogic chanting, is also getting more attention. The “call and response” format of chanting is a type of yoga in itself and has many of the mind-calming benefits of a yoga class or seated meditation.

Over the years I have participated in many and even drummed at one kirtan at jivamukti (the drummer didn't show up and I was the only one in the audience that knew how to drum).

Well before you read on if you are wondering if it's worth going to a live Kirtan concert to hear Krisna Das, the answer is "yes". Having heard and played his cd's over the years in my yoga classes I always was curious to hear his deep and booming voice live. The stage was set with beautiful carpets and incredible fresh tropical antherium flowers and large green leaves on either side. Krishna Das plays the traditional Kirtan instrument called the harmonium (sounds a little like a cross between organ and accordian) and was accompanied by 4 instruments. Two guys on the drums & tablas, an amazing female violinist (I have a soft spot for violins) and woman playing hand cymbals.

He started by introducing himself and telling us he grew up in Long Island New York and had to learn the hard way to find peace. Throughout the concert he wove in fascinating stories of his studies in India with his guru, that had us laughing and on the edge of our seats wanting more.

Next he introduced us to the basics of chanting 101. He said I sing, then you repeat and have it sound kind of like me and we are good. Hehe. This sounded like my kind of concert. Easy going and low key! My favorite chant was Ma Durga it brought a tear to my eye. Some of the other chants made me laugh and even sad. For those of you new to chanting, it is a way to connect to yourself and well more than that, to all that is. It really is like a yoga practice. It's not about competing or being the most blissed out. It's more about being in the moment and letting all your stuff melt away...There is no right or wrong. Chant sheets with the Sanskrit words (ancient language) were handed out. You don't have to be a yoga teacher or expert to sing along. It's kind of like ancient karaoke.

In between the chants there was a long pause instead of accustomed applause and you could have heard a pin drop except we were in a beautiful tent like structure with one wall screened and open to the outdoors (only in Hawaii of course). So the moments of silence were filled by the surprising melodic chirping of the local tree frogs. It was so beautiful and just added to the already incredible vibe that was being created by KD and his team.

His sense of humor right off the bat has you knowing this is going to be a fun playful evening---and that is was. A phenomenal night! I say thumbs up: A great way for first timers and regulars alike to spend an evening. Yogagurl says "I loved it and would recommend it!". I left feeling a sense of calm and inner peace. Has anyone been? Tell me what you think about his concerts...

Being we were at an intimate venue ( about 250 people) after the concert I went up to say hello. I am not much of a stargazer but I really felt in my heart to thank him for an inspiring evening.
I was surprised at how easy he was to talk to. I had him smell the local Hawaiian yellow trumpet flower in my hand. We got to chatting and turns out his violinist is from Toronto, small world.

I told him I had just launched my first yogagurl relaxation CD and dug in my purse to proudly showed him the illustration on the cover my intern Erika toiled over for hours on end. "Whine less breathe more--I like it" he chuckled. So I spontaneously handed it to him and said I liked your humor tonite and think you will appreciate mine! He thanked me and said he'd listen to it soon. YAY! Krishna Das has one of the first 100 yogagurl Limited Edition hand stitched cover cd's!

Breathing with yogagurl cd

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 23:47:00 +0000

Ahhhhh... We are getting closer and closer!

Our cd is now available on www.cdbaby.com ( if you want to order a real cd) and

ANYDAY now on itunes...

So stay tuned and spread the word...Remember the key to staying in the moment is breathing deeply...

See this article in LOCAL MAGAZINE that just come out! YAY!

alex.pdf

Yogagurl Sponsors CN Tower Climb!

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:05:00 +0000

The dream of yogagurl is to empower & inspire women. With this in mind, Alex sponsored three determined girls to climb to the top of the CN Tower!

From left to right, meet Marg Skorka, myself, Erika Lucivero, and Monika Krupa; aka, 'Alex's Angels' hehe! We are dressed head to toe in some very comfortable and sustainable yogagurl yoga wear!

All proceeds for the climb were donated to the United Way. This motivated us to raise money, but what motivated us to climb this BEAST of a tower?!?! A challenge! Marg wanted to challenge herself to do something she hadn't done before. Monika and I were doing this for our second time (yes, we must be crazy!) and were aiming to beat our previous times! Since my last climb, I had a major lifestyle change that had me question how I would perform on this climb.

I became a gluten-free vegan 5 months ago. It began with a detox and the elimination diet followed. This made me aware of several food allergies and sensitivities that I had. Coincidentally, I began interning at yogagurl and had the privilege of leaning from and being supported by Alex. Alex is highly influenced by the Thrive diet, developed by vegan athlete Brendan Brazier.

I have always been active, but I definitely noticed a surge of energy on this diet. I was so excited to see how I would perform on the climb... until I was attacked with a horrible flu that had me quarantined and bedridden for three weeks! I healed a week before the climb (thankfully!) and had to find the best and fastest way to prepare in order to optimize my performance. So what did I do?

Exercising again started gradually, focusing on bringing up my endurance and strength. I still had a lingering cough so I used steam to help heal my lungs. Most importantly, I focused my attention on nutrition.

Vega has a whole food optimizing powder that I used to make shakes twice a day. While sick, I would literally feel healthier right after drinking it. It is PACKED with nutrition and maca! It’s amazing! I drink it once a day now, but at the time, I needed my nutrients!

Another way I got nutrients was through eating ‘superfoods.’ These include hemp (hemp oil in salad), chlorophyll (in my water), greens, coconut milk/oil (cook with coconut oil!!), and sprouts (like quinoa to replace wheat). These are amazing options you could add to your diet! Remember, it’s not as much about eliminating foods like meat, as it is about adding foods like these!

I was feeling pretty good the morning of the climb! I ate fruit for the sugar rush/energy and drank Vega sport for the electrolytes (hydrates your body). You don’t want to eat too much before a workout because then your body will focus its energy on digesting instead of fueling your muscles!

The three of us did some stretching to warm up and then went for it! Being sick definitely affected my performance. My lungs were screaming at me!! My determination broke through and I managed to knock a minute off my previous time, finishing at 19.41 minutes! Marg/fellow vegan finished at 20.08 and Monika/superwoman finished at 17.02!

I know that without having changed my lifestyle I wouldn’t have been able to heal as fast as I had and perform so well! Yoga and meditation gave me the mental capacity to stay focused and keep going. Although my breathing went from breathe in… breathe out… breathe in… breathe out… to breahinoutbrtethoutinbrethinout… JUST BREATHE!!! Haha

The plan for the next climb is to get a group of people together wearing men’s underwear. We’re talking tighty whiteys! You’re welcomed to join our group, or make one of your own with your own theme! You don’t even need to climb the tower. You could do anything! Have fun with it! Be creative! Challenge yourself and play!! I hope I’ve inspired you so you can go out and inspire others!! Like Ghandi said, ‘be the change you want to see in the world.’

-Erika xo <3

Breathing with yogagurl cd

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:03:00 +0000

Yay! Now you can get help with breathing at home and on the go. Try my new relaxation cd for busy people. Available soon on itunes!! Available now by phone or email...

Back to schoool means back to work so does that mean the summer play time is over? Not, if you don't want it to be. Let's change that to work, play, breathe, be, recharge.
The trick is how to make breathing part of your everyday routine--not easy. Trust me it's taken me over 9 years of teaching. So i've made it easy for you.

Start your day, take a break or end your day with my voice set to relaxing music...

Phone sessions & private sessions are available

Happy 9.9.9. today!

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:58:00 +0000

Just a quick note to remind you all that today is a very magical day! Sept 9, 2009. There is a collective meditation going on at 9:09 am & pm, you totally need to join in! So set your timers on your phones!

Wherever you are in your car, at your desk, at least stop and take a deep breath and breathe deeply into your heart space. We are far to busy with our lives and this is a great excuse to just stop for a moment and connect!
Feel unconditional love and peace. If we all do this at the same time imagine how beautiful...

Much love,
yogagurl

Good Stress vs Bad Stress

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 21:50:00 +0000

Goodbad stress Ah ha! Oxymoron?

Yes stress can be good! It can give us the fuel and passion to get things done. It can challenge and allow us to grow and even result in new experiences under our belts and newly acquired strengths.

Instead of being overwhelmed try biting off little chunks and use your busy-ness to get more done. Write down the problem and then some solutions. Make an action list and then take action today. Make one call, one email, just do it!

Then reward yourself by taking real time out to play and de-compress. Knowing you have a handle on things...Let it all go !

90 Day Personal Health Quest -Changing old habits...

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 11:07:00 +0000

Day 2 of 90 days...

"Whatever you can do,
or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius,
power and magic in it."
Goethe

I woke up this morning and was inspired to write a short note about the next 90 days of my life. My life is built around doing things that I love and learning everyday. I don't often share my more personal goals or challenges and I have been lax about writing on my blog, I really didn't think many people read it. But I received such positive feedback from many people about the clearing of clutter blog entry I feel encouraged to share more and more. It is my intention that in sharing something more personal and making it public I commit to myself and I also it forces me to accept and overcome my own challenges and become even more accountable to myself for my dreams!

So enough about that, the topic of inspiration today is "CHANGE". I mean what is a habit? It is really only an out picturing of our former beliefs right? So whatever you feared in the past you acted out of those fears and created a habit that created a certain outcome. In your relationships, your finances, your physical health, your mental and emotional health. Today you might be living with that outcome and not always happily. So it is time to take a little inventory and look at old habits we want to CHANGE and that is my 90 day GOAL (oops I don't like to use that word).
"No goals"yogagurl...

Rather it is my 90 day DESIRE and DREAM and WISH.

I am going to go for my highest level of health :
1) physically 2) spiritually 3) emotionally 4) intellectually.

This means feeding all parts of you! Feeding your body , mind and spirit. Most people only work on 2 areas on themselves. I believe in order to evolve fully we must grow and challenge ourselves in all these areas!

It's funny when I told people I was embarking on a 90 day health challenge I got mixed reviews some looked at me and said "for what?" " I mean you already are so healthy & do yoga & eat well and are in shape". And I replied "I have decided to bump everything in my life up 2 notches. No matter where we are in our lives we can always improve and make positive change. The changes we make in one area of our life affects all areas! (money, health, relationships) It is your attitude and outlook that is key!

Here's what my Serge my financial advisor emailed to me :
"Fantastic, setting your self short and medium term goals is the only way to achieve your long term goals in finance. The drive that you have is really inspiring, when I already know how healthy you really are, and you are talking about pushing yourself to the max. Really inspiring."

After teaching yoga for almost 9 years I have realized that my muscles need change, everyday I do the same things over and over and I wasn't challenging my muscles and even started to show signs of injury form repetion. I want to incorporate a workout program that changes things up! Voila I stumble on a program that confuses your muscles--LOL it's true! the program includes karate style, yoga, weights, resistance training----YUM!

I usually do a 30 day quest, which includes yoga, diet, working out, and daily meditation but I was introduced to a 90 day fitness program through my friend Koko created by his pal Tony Horton called "P90X". So I thought ---why dont I incporporate that with my personal goals. So I checked it out and I tried several of the dvd's before comitting to the program and I really loved it! Tony is truly an innovator in his field and inspiration to many people. Plus he really has a great sense of humor (kinda like my cheeky yogagurl humor) which makes it really fun !! I also love working out outside on the beach and in the park, so I love that I can modify and take what I am learning and bring it outdoors! Oh and did I mention he LOVES yoga and he understands the importance of diet (he is also vegetarian). Oh and did I mention he's HOT... (Yeah I mean it helps when you are looking and listening to someone that inspires you.)
http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/best_sellers/p90x.do?code=BBHOME_PARSEA_P90X

OK so the whole point of this is that I would love for you to join me for 21 days, 30, 40, 90 whatever you can and set some personal challenges. Maybe you can DO MORE YOGA, ( watch for my upcoming yogagurl DVD in the fall) make diet changes , commit to regular exercise program ( ie. cut out or back on sugar, refined flours) change up your workouts. Most of all inspire yourself to reach your optimum health. Everyday I hear so many people talk about what they don't want in their life: "I don't want to be broke" "i dont want to lose my job" "i dont want to be fat" I dont want...blah blah... So I ask you WHAT DO YOU WANT? And start practicing it outloud by saying it to people and watch it turn into reality! I've done it --it works.

Remember there are 2 ways of thinking optimistic or pessimistic. Research shows that optimistic people achieve 10 times more than pessimistic is ALL AREAS OF LIFE. (Martin Seligman). Why? Because how you do one thing is how you do everything! Think about it. Observe this today. Notice when you react negatively towards something or someone or respond just out of habit. Take a deep breath before you react and then see if you can do the opposite.
Make today an OPPOSITE Day ( haha). Have I given you too much to digest. Am I rambling yet?

Ok back to the point. Start today. Dont wait. I leave you with one of my favourite quotes by Goethe:

"Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation) there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way.

"Whine less. Breathe More."
love,
yogagurl

HAVE FUN, PLAY, SEE YOU AT THE BEACH

P.S.
I'll keep you posted as to how I am doing during the 90 days...
!!

"FEAR LESS, HOPE MORE" -Yogagurl

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:36:00 +0000

FACING YOUR FEARS

This is a poem about facing our fears and recognizing that we are the only ones standing in our own

way. No matter who we are and where we are in life we all have fears -- the difference is someone who is still in fear is stuck and the courageous person is someone who knows how to face them! It was inspired by a friend of mine that kept giving me excuses of why he can't do things. I realized I use some of those same excuse in my own life. So thank you K. for being a reflection for me to see where I can be more fearless...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Poem to Myself from Myself

Honey baby,
If it's a long story
I dont want to hear it
If it's an old story I don't want to hear it
I've heard it all before from my very own lips

But, if it's a new story I wanna hear all about it

If it's another broken record in the collection of my life or yours
playing the same old story over & over
I'm so over it

If I asked ME to leave....would you?

Cause my life is different now
I am no longer who I was
I am no longer that scared girl
wanting to please the world
today, I please me
I am FREE
I AM READY

I face my fears--- I just do it
I look them in the eye and I say
You dont scare me anymore
Cause you are the old me
You are just me in another mask ----just me holding me back
Cause i let you
Cause i gave you my power
Cause you made me feel safe
But the safety was an illusion
And SO you are not welcome in my home & heart anymore!

You've hurt me, you've betrayed me you've held back my biggest dreams

And now you are no longer a part of me
Why you ask?

Because everyday you tell me you are not ready
Everyday you tell me tomorrow, tomorrow
And I hold on hoping and believing you
And tomorrow never comes

TODAY my life is passing me by and you still say
Tomorrow tomorrow I am just not ready

So guess what?

Yesterday I asked you to leave
Cause I decided
I AM READY

And guess what?

You did...

Yoga Retreats, Relax with Yogagurl

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:31:00 +0000

yogagurl September Retreat for Women

Enjoy the beginning of fall and all its colours and the beautiful Pine River valley, one of the highest elevations in Ontario.

8 lucky women get the chance to come up north with Yogagurl to take part in a special yoga retreat which will include:
- 4 Yoga classes (all levels)
- 2 creative workshops* (to develop/deepen your practice on and off the mat)
-healthy gourmet vegetarian meals & juicing demos
-health & wealth talk by Yogagurl
- comfortable shared accommodations
- hiking trails, meditation, massage and much more!

When:
Saturday September 11, 2009 - Sunday September 13, 2009 (Friday night or Saturday morning checkin available)

Where:
Pine River B&B

Cost: $345 CAD or $295 ea if you sign up with a friend
*food, beverage, accommodation and activities included

To get more info on this unique retreat weekend, contact us at:
click@yogagurl.com or 416-818 9642.

yogagurl October Retreat for Couples

Wanted to bring your partner before but couldn't? Take time to reconnect and play on our couples retreat.

4 couples get the chance to come up north with Yogagurl to take part in a special yoga retreat which will include:
- 4 Yoga classes (all levels)
- 2 creative workshops* (to develop/deepen your practice on and off the mat)
-healthy gourmet vegetarian meals & juicing demos
-talks by Yogagurl
- comfortable shared accommodations
- hiking trails, meditation, massage and much more!

When:
Saturday October 17, 2009-Sunday October 18 (Friday night or Saturday morning checkin available)

Where:
Pine River B&B

Cost: $295 each CAD before September 31st. Regular price $395
*food, beverage, accommodation and activities included

To get more info on this unique retreat weekend, contact us at:
click@yogagurl.com or 416-818 9642.

yogagurl New Years Retreat in St. Lucia

A chance to get away and start your New Year off on the right foot with nutritious food, relaxation, adventure and the beauty of St. Lucia.

Who: Alexandra Leikermoser- eco designer, yoga instructor, speaker and entrepreneur. She is known to inspire transformation & change for those who are ready. Her Yoga Classes are suited to all levels and all body types, and are in Hatha Yoga Flow Style. Her classes inspire new ways of being in her emphasis is on the journey and being playful!

What: A private 7 day yoga retreat in a secluded oasis to celebrate the Start of the New Year. Lots of time to recharge, relax, play and explore the untouched beauty of St. Lucia. Day trips to other parts of the island. Maximum 10 people.

Where: Balenbouche Estate, St. Lucia. Experience the 150 year old historic plantation guesthouse as well as two remote beautiful beaches, home cooked meals, massage and spa options and view of the caribbean sea from the garden. Balenbouche Estate is located on the
south-western coast of St. Lucian within 70 acres of farmland and unspoiled nature.

When: December 27th, 2009- January 3rd, 2010

Why: Be inspired to bring yoga and new wellness habits and tips into your everyday life! Re-connect with yourself and nature, meet other like minded men and women on their journey of health and
wellness. Early bird registration before September 15th, 2009.

And all this for under $1,500!

Inspiring activities include visitation to local cocoa plantation, make your own coconut skin care products workshop, natural jewelry making workshop, organic farm tour, night time hot springs, optional cleanse or juice fast available at no extra charge and a visit to the picturesque town of Soufriere.

For more info: click@yogagurl.com or 416-818-9642

LETTING GO! Do it today, don't wait another day!

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:04:00 +0000

Hello Beautiful People,

I feel inspired to write a quick note today on the topic of "letting go". As some of you know a year ago I embarked on a Personal Journey. I wasn't really sure where I was going I just knew I had to pack my bags and go. I gave up my 2000 sq foot dream loft. I let go of 1/2 of what I owned and gave away the rest. I couch surfed for a while, lived in a friends basement...I followed through on one of my life long dreams to do a road trip to the Mohave Desert, I took a The Gorilla Business Course, and met incredible people from around the world like me trying to live their passions. I took time to listen to what I really needed and started to put myself first. I practiced loving myself and stopped expecting or needing love from others. I started buying myself flowers and really taking care of my inner most needs. Including my inner child. Today I wake up each morning and ask myself what my the little girl in me wants to do today, and i make sure she gets air time to play and be curious. Little did I know this was the beginning of one of the most profound chapters in my life so far. All my life I had collected books, papers, beautiful things and clothes. I am sure I was addicted to shopping and filling my life with stuff. Being a yoga instructor certainly helped to create more balance in my life but the part of me inside that was unhappy was still there, I was still the old me underneath. It takes time, this is not an overnight process. Letting go takes dedication and commitment. Today I can say through much time spent in nature, letting go of most of what I own and paring down to the things around me that I love and that support me in being who I truly am inside. And what I found was actually the things I loved most were the things I have found in nature, or made or were made for me by friends ---not expensive objects. I am not expecting everyone to be this extreme. Look around your space, what are you holding onto, that could be let go to make space for new in your life. The other profound thing I have noticed is that as you let go of physical objects they represent inner parts of you, old parts of you and clearing them from your space makes room for new people, ideas, projects, to come your way. So as you let go of one thing today, say to yourself as i let go of this book, vase, chair etc. I make room for more love, money, friendship, playfulness in my life. Out with the old, in with the new. One door closes and new door opens. We know all this stuff, we just have to do it! Have fun, team up with a friend or hire an expert, I tried doing this on my own and hit a wall, often we ARE way to attached emotionally to our own stuff. A neutral person can come in and assist you in navigating through what is truly meaningful and what is just fear based stuff that you are holding onto! We are never really ready, so just do it! Start today and watch your life change shape in front of your very eyes. Have fun!!

Whine Less breathe more,

Alexandra

Take Action:

1)Take 1-2 hours today to declutter, start with one area

2)Think of 1-2 people, projects that you do not enjoy and are just taking space in your life because they are safe or familiar, set a date to let go of them and give notice to the parties involved today!

Books to inspire you:

Professional Dreamer by Ghalil

Clear your Clutter with Feng Shui Karen Kingston

People to help you:

1) Shugamai Grace johnson, Will come to your home or office, blessings.abundance@gmail.com

2) www.organizetogether.com - marlo is amazing and will do this virtually with you

Yogagurl Gets Press in Australia

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:53:00 +0000

Yogagurl on BeautyandLace.com

If you suffer from a cold belly, or have tops that aren’t quite long enough to keep you warm, Yogagurl’s Belly Warmers are for you. Not just for working out (although they are a cute yoga or pilates accessory) they can be worn with absolutely everything.

See us featured here!

http://www.beautyandlace.com.au/index-1.html

Feeling stressed? Do this 2 minute exercise...

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:47:00 +0000

Take 3 deep breaths in and out of your nose as you sit tall in your chair...

Take a pen and paper. Answer these 3 questions.
1) What is the problem?
2) What are some solutions?
3) What is the best solution?

Take 3 more deep breaths...Ahhhhh

Take action steps toward your solutions so you feel you are moving forward. Make a phone call. Send an email. You are already doing it!

Yogagurl Armwarmer Testimonial

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 13:45:00 +0000

June 4, 2009, by email.

Yogagurl Armwarmer Testimonial:

The best items I ever purchased are your arm warmers.

I have a pinched ulnar nerve on my left side and have problems with my left arm going cold around the elbow. I also have thyroid problems and am post-menopausal. With the inconsistent heating and air conditions where I work, I usually end up with most of me sweating and my arm cold to the touch.

The arm warmer is good for me because I don't have to run around with 1 arm inside of a sweater and the rest of the sweater slung over my shoulder because it is too hot for me to wear the complete garment.

I can keep my arm warm without over-heating the rest of me.

Debra-Jo Sujka

Get Outta Town! Annual Yoga Retreat

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:01:00 +0000

Yogagurl Summer Retreats
Recharge & Relax at Yogagurl July and August Retreats at a Private Eco B&B near Creemore!

Mark your calendar! JULY RETREAT 17th-19th

AUGUST RETREAT 14th-16th

(Friday night or Saturday morning check in available)

8 lucky women get the chance to come up north with Yogagurl to take part in a special summer yoga retreat which will include:
- 4 Yoga classes (all levels)
- 2 creative workshops* (to develop/deepen your practice on and off the mat)
- healthy gourmet vegetarian meals & juicing demos
-health & wealth talk by Yogagurl
- comfortable shared accommodations
- hiking trails, swimming, massage and much more!

When:
Saturday July 17 - Sunday July 19 (Friday night or Saturday morning check in available)

Saturday August 14- Sunday August 16 (Friday night or Saturday morning check in available)

Where:
Pine River B&B

Cost: $345 or $295 ea if you sign up with a friend (food, beverage, accommodation and activities included)

Space is limited at this cozy retreat so contact us soon!

To get more info on this unique retreat weekend, contact us at:
click@yogagurl.com or 416-818 9642.

check out yogagurl Retreat Page also for more info!
http://www.yogagurl.com/retreats.html

Online Press

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 29 May 2009 14:29:00 +0000

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR AWESOME ONLINE PRESS...

Beauty and Lace, Australia
Looks like even the Aussies love yogagurl!! Check out our great review!
http://www.beautyandlace.com.au/yogagurlaccessories.php

Treehugger, UK
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/09/yogagurl.php

Fashion Tribes, USA

Great podcast review!

http://fashiontribes.typepad.com/main/2005/08/cute_yoga_threa.html

Yoga Journal, Giveaways, USA
www.wholebeingyoga.com/pdfs/YJ25DayGiveaways2007.pdf

Globe & Mail, Style Council, Canada, by Amy Verner
http://www.newsletterarchive.org/2007/03/26/128282-Style+Counsel+-+THE+BUY:+Yogagurl+Arm+Warmers+

Sweetspot, Canada
http://www.sweetspot.ca/montreal/fashion/2054/yogattitude/

Canadian Living, Canada
http://www.canadianliving.com/health/mind_and_spirit/gift_guide_healthy_stocking_stuffers.php

Blog TO, Canada, Interview, Anita
http://www.blogto.com/fashion_style/2008/05/designer_files_alexandra_leikermoser/

Shrued Photoblog, Canada
Yogagurl's bike!
http://jonathangreenwald.com/pblog/index.php?showimage=535

Live in Love not Fear! Celebrate! Flow with the River...HOPI MESSAGE

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 12:55:00 +0000

HOPI MESSAGE

Today I bring you a Hopi Message...

THIS IS HOW I SEE IT----
I AM NOT AFRAID TO TREAD IN UNKNOWN TERRITORY AS I AM A PIONEER.

OBAMA USED THE LAST LINE IS HIS SPEECH
"WE ARE THE ONES WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR"

CREATE a beautiful day for yourself

Love,
Yogagurl

------------------

Imagine if in the next 50 years, the message of personal transformation and meditation is heeded by enough individuals around the world —
and they start changing themselves — and move into LOVE and EROS then we will move into our own awareness, genius, CREATIVITY and compassion.

The other option is to stay in war, global warming, anger, stress and fear, while misusing our technology and resources.

Both inner and outer Worlds are one and the same. So what is happening in the world is a reflection of our inner struggles as humans.

Would you rather live in FEAR & VIOLENCE or LOVE & PEACE?

The following is letter written in 2001 coming from a spokesperson for the Hopi Elders, and is relevant for today! Some Elders feel that their messages to the world must remain oral and never written. Other elders, however, such as Thomas Banyaca, feel that the need to share the Hopi prophecies to the world at large is key.

“To my fellow swimmers:
There is a river flowing now very fast.
It is so great and swift,
that there are those who will be afraid.
They will try to hold on to the shore,
they are being torn apart and will suffer greatly.
Know that the river has its destination.
The elders say we must let go of the shore,
push off into the middle of the river,
keep our heads above water.
And I say see who is there with you and celebrate.
At this time in history,
we are to take nothing personally,
least of all ourselves,
for the moment that we do,
our spiritual growth and journey come to a halt.
The time of the lone wolf is over.
Gather yourselves.
Banish the word struggle from your attitude and vocabulary.
All that we do now must be done
in a sacred manner and in celebration.
We are the ones we have been waiting for.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTERPRETATION:

The river is a metaphor for the fast, white water currents of our present times in this new millennium.
The call to abandon “the shore” we know and flow down the current of a unknown destiny is a common theme in the Hopi purification prophecy.
In another metaphorical way: people will “drop dead from their own fear of change” if they do not embrace the coming changes.

Those people who can not only embrace change but celebrate their journey into an unknown and new millennium will greatly benefit from the shift that is happening.

The call to celebrate life — and to SIMPLIFY and to be mindful in our actions — is a common message shared by the Hopi with those modern mystics and prophets like Adi Da, Gurdjieff, or Osho.

All of them promote a vision of a new humanity coming that transcends its past attachments through meditation and celebration of life.

Wishing you a day of creating Love, Appreciation and Abundance!

Blessings & Abundance

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 22:39:00 +0000

Burst Of Pink
Originally uploaded by photos.yogagurl

Happy 2009!

The Breath: Our Guide Into The Now

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:02:00 +0000

Hurry, hurry don’t be late. Go here, do this. Go there, do that. Don’t forget this and don’t forget that. Did you remember to do what you were supposed to do, or did that errand slip by you? Does any of this ring bells of familiarity?

Often our days are crammed with so many things to do and so many places to go and a host of people to see, that it seems like it might be easy to forget to breathe.

Here's a few ideas to consider that can help slow the pace and help us touch base:

• Stop.
• Breathe.
• Be.
• Savor the moment.

Ahhhh. . . being in the moment. It is so easy to forget, yet it is most important and it is really what makes up the fabric of our lives. A moment in time. Momentary. A piece of time. Do we know exactly what a moment is? Can it truly be defined?

I can share my personal definition. For me a moment is synonymous with breath and breathing. It is being present enough to enjoy what is happening in the moment -- the now. I can try to let go and not worry about doing things like trying to capture it on camera or in writing. I can release the need to feel like I must go somewhere or accomplish some task. I can just enjoy “being” to the point where I am in a complete state of “allowing.”

For me, these moments come more easily when I am out in nature, connecting with it on a personal level. When I walk on the beach, I can feel each tiny grain of sand between my toes. Or I feel the sensation of the wind's soft touch, caressing my cheek gently. These moments also come when I am in a balancing yoga pose that requires me to breathe deeply and be really present, or else risk falling over.

Capturing and enjoying a present moment isn't so easy when you find yourself in a pressure-and-stress filled situation, like being caught in a jam of city traffic. Those are the moments where the good habits I formed in meditation and yoga practice come in very handy.

There is one central key that is very helpful:

• This is where we call on the breath.
• The breath is the key to the moment.
• We cannot breathe in the past.
• We cannot breathe in the future.

Think Outside the Box

The breath is an excellent tool to take us into the present. The breath helps us to move more mindfully and slowly. Fast is an illusion. Slow isn’t so bad. It may seem surprising, but when we move slowly we are able to get more done. Everyone knows Aesop's Fable, "The Tortoise and the Hare." Slow and steady wins the race. Be a turtle and try it sometime, and just observe the outcome.

If the present is truly all there really is, why are we so caught up in what could be or what could have been? Perhaps the element missing in our lives is the ability to be free flowing human beings. Maybe we are too uptight and spend too much time confined by the "box" of our habits. It's complicated, made more so by deadlines, appointments and, well, this, that and the other.

I am being fully in the moment as I write this piece. But what about taking this task "out of the box" to a free flowing, freeform writing exercise? What happens? Disclaimer: Please do not try this at home unless you are prepared to be in the moment!

Here goes: The truth is all there is. The moment is all there is. Discover the power of being present. Being in the now. Listening. Being. Breathing. Feeling. Ahhhhh. Letting go. Breath. Listen. Honor your place. Letting be. Tuning into our intuition. Playing. Seeing with fresh eyes. Gratitude. Grace. No goals. No desires. Contentment. Surrender. Freedom to be. Singing. Dancing. Playing. Now I am in the moment. . . with very short sentences!

The truth is that there are so many ways to just "be." But often we are stuck in the only way we know. Part of the beauty of our journey is experimenting and finding new modes for self-expression that give us new or expanded abilities to be who we are, while staying present and fully awake, aware and in the moment. We really can’t live in the past or the future. We can only live in the moment. Today as you walk in you present moments, don’t draw from the past or project to the future; do your best to stay in each of those moments. Allow yourself to experience a kind of temporary amnesia and watch your day shift.

I leave with one last thought to gnaw on: if the answer is being in the moment, then what is the question? Hmmmm......... Thank you for your precious time! Thank you for sharing this moment with my words.

yogagurl's inspiring guide book of daily rituals

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:54:00 +0000

Watch for yogagurl's inspiring guide book of daily rituals & mantras coming in early 2009

A Few Testimonials...

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 04:56:00 +0000

• "Fabulous!! Really enjoyed it. Felt extremely relaxed when I got back to my desk."

• "Fantastic! I really like Alex. She is friendly, personable and makes you feel comfortable. It's very important that you trust your instructor and I trust Alex to guide us in the right direction."

• "It was a great class! I'm glad the wellness committee decided to put this together!"

- Employees from Honda

"She provides balanced instruction, accommodating the mixed abilities, personalities, and professional levels. When asked of an employee what he thought about Alexandra and/or the yoga program, he simply responded, "days are better when I go to yoga."
-Taxi Advertising

Asset Inc., awarded with 50 best managed companies three years running, wrote:

"Yogagurl comes into our office and energizes the staff and well as de-stressing them. Her years of experience and passion for healthy living come through in all aspects of what she does, motivating and inspiring the staff weekly with new lifestyle and wellness tips."
-Asset Inc. (awarded '50 Best Managed Companies' three years running)

What Has Yogagurl Been Up To?

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:32:00 +0000

Press: Lou Lou Magazine - yogagurl as Green Designer

noreply@blogger.com (Yogagurl) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 20:26:00 +0000