Picture this: you've had a long, grueling day, and your feet are pleading for a break. Your shoulders feel permanently stuck in a shrugged position, and your jaw is locked. It's as if tension has set up camp in your body, and you're the unwilling host.

 A yoga practice can help you both on and off your mat. While the physical practice of yoga can help increase flexibility and build strength, there are countless ways a yoga practice can help off the mat, too. Here are some of my favorites:

Exercising in nature is my favorite form of self-care. I try to get outside even when the weather isn’t ideal because being in nature energizes me. Walking or running, I pay attention to my surroundings because that is the whole point of being outside.

When people think of exercise, they usually think about going to the gym or a workout class. But many different forms of exercise contribute to your physical and mental health. You can focus on breathing or other methods, such as progressive muscle relaxation.

"Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts." Rachel Carson

Tea is a ritual, an art that nourishes the soul. Tea is a gentle reminder to slow down and savor the moment. Integrating tea into your daily routine is a healthy habit that encourages mindfulness and elevates one's self-care practice.

Exercise is everywhere. You hear about the benefits of exercise for health, mind, and spirit in the news, on social media, and even from your doctor or therapist.

In an ideal world, you can spend thirty to sixty minutes on your yoga mat daily. It’s essential to recognize that not every day will be a “spend 30-60 minutes on your yoga mat” kind of day.

“It never gets easier, you just get better.” -Unknown

Yoga. It can be intimidating for those unfamiliar with the practice. A quick internet search for types further adds to the mystique of what this practice is – Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, Restorative, Bikram, Power, and so on. I want to introduce you to two versions of yoga: Hatha and Vinyasa. 

Words are more than just a means of communication; they can shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

In the ever-evolving landscape of sports and athletics, competition is a driving force behind progress and achievement. Athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts alike have held the belief that pitting oneself against opponents of equal or greater skill is the surest path to improvement.