Self Care & Why It's Important

When I was younger, I always made time for me. This was probably because I had no real responsibilities. But I always had time to go get manicure or a pedicure, or to take a hot relaxing bath and make sure my legs were shaved, exfoliated and moisturized. I always had time to paint my nails or to spend the evening conditioning my hair and giving myself a pedicure.

Time like that is a rarity for me these days. If I’m not working, planning, teaching, cleaning or spending QT with my husband, pups and family, I’m sleeping. The older you get, the more hectic life becomes and the more important having some kind of self-care ritual becomes.

For me, in the midst of what already was chaos, I also am teaching yoga. I am teaching this powerful tool that inspires others and here I am sometimes finding myself uninspired. I am portraying that I totally have my shit together, when in all honesty, sometimes I’m just flying by the seat of my pants. Becoming a teacher was the best thing I could do. But is also takes time away from me. You learn to get your inspiration and “me time” in other ways and yet somehow it never feels like it's quite enough. Having a great mentor is one of the best things to help with this. However, I've also found taking the time for yourself; whether it’s setting a pamper night or signing up for a yoga class with your favorite instructor.

Now, don't get me wrong. I don't take what I do for granted OR wish I didn't do it. I absolutely LOVE what I do. In a way, the 'high' I get before and after teaching a class is part of my self care. It literally is the best feeling in the whole entire world that I am so grateful I get to experience.

My point is though; it's not just being a yoga teacher. Regardless of what you do professionally (but especially if you are in an industry where you take care of others) or what you do for a hobby,  You have GOT to do something to nurture yourself because the truth is – we can’t even begin to help people if we don’t help ourselves first.

Sure, this may sound selfish, but it’s the same reason the flight attendant instructs you to put on your oxygen mask before helping your neighbor with theirs.

How can we expect others to be able to drink from our cup if our cups aren’t full?

I won't lie to you. It's a hard thing to do! But it isn't impossible.

Today, make time for you. Set aside some time for yourself; even if it’s 5 minutes and do something for you.

Holiday Gift Guide

And just like that, it's December 1st! Can you believe it? Time literally flies by! It's insane! I know I say that all the time. But I truly don't know how to make it slow down!

I thought it might be fun to compile all of my favorites into a blog post. (Not that you're looking to buy for me; and in that case, I would have most likely included things that I didn't already have LOL) But things that I've come to love as I have dove deeper into the yoga world. Hugger Mugger is truly becoming one of my favorite brands! Specifically for their patterns. They have such fun beautiful patterns in just about everything. Having pretty things motivates me to practice more! So... If you're looking for the perfect gift (or gifts) for the yogi in your life, look no further!

one - Hugger Mugger Batik mat bag  $34.95; I may or may not already have this. (actually, I do) Hugger Mugger has become my new favorite simply based off of their ADORABLE patterns. Seriously, I'm in love! This bag is perfect for carrying your yoga mat to and from class. I especially love the zipper compartments to carry things like my wallet, keys and or phone when I'm on the go because I HATE lugging around tons of bags!

two - Elisabeth Ashlie elastic ties  $4/3 hair ties; Although these aren't what she is known for, these ties are the cutest things ever! They won't cause damage to your hair like the normal ones do. In fact; I like a looser pony tail holder these days. These come in so many fun patterns; they're great! *also check out her jewelry while you're at it. She makes some spectacular things and she is local too! Right here in the Chicagoland area!

three - Hugger Mugger Cotton D-Ring Strap (10 in) $11.95; (typically on sale for $8.99); If you seriously loathe using the strap, or you get frustrated with how short they are you have g o t to try this 10-inch strap. Especially if you're curvy; you'll notice these longer straps working 10 times better for you.

four - Hibiscus Headband  (Beautiful Boundaries Etsy Shop) $8.40;  what yogi couldn't use a headband? This shop has the CUTEST ones I've seen in quite some time. The patterns are absolutely gorgeous and she has all kinds of various shapes and sizes! She recently had a by 2 get 1 free sale. If you happen to check her out while this sale is going on, I encourage you to take advantage of it! You won't be disappointed!

five - The Original Super Block $29.99; Get ready for a whole lotta block! This thing is freaking AMAZING! Seriously, I can't even describe it! You can use it for so many things other than just a block! I recently attended a hot yoga class where they did not have bolsters. Using two of these and a blanket, I created my own and made myself a thousand times more comfortable than I would have been with nothing. This is probably my favorite yoga prop at the moment!

six - The Yamas & Niyamas $8.00 - $15 respectively; THIS BOOK! This book will change your life! We read this in training, and while we went rather fast through it; it still changed my life! It will open you to your core and you will become so much more of a happier; more open person. I will warn you though; the process is lengthy and it sucks! It's raw and it's emotional, so be ready for that. I'm actually taking 2016 to restart the book, and complete each exercise in the book instead of one per chapter!

seven - Hugger Mugger Meditation Cushion (also available in patterned; because why not) $46.95 solid and $56.95 for patterned; meditation cushions are the new yoga mat! Have you not heard this yet? lol Seriously though, if I can't get in an asana practice, I will at least take the time to meditate. I can do this so much better with a pretty cushion! I'm a sucker for Hugger Mugger's patterns! (clearly) so while this is a little hefty on the price tag, I promise, it's totally worth it!