How long have you been assisting at YS? Just over a year.

When do you assist at YS? Tuesdays at 6:30pm, it’s the place to be!

Family: I am very close with my dad, Jerry, and step mom, Helen. I am the only girl of 2 brothers and 3 step brothers, it has its advantages! I also have some of the best friends in the world that I consider my family.

Pets: The best boxer MILO. I rescued him at the NORCAL boxer rescue.

Furthest city traveled to: This is a terrible question for me because I suck at geography. Probably somewhere in Israel.

Favorite guilty pleasure: Twilight!

Favorite ice cream flavor: I am obsessed with I Heart Yogurt right now. Original flavor and the Orange and Tangerine Sorbet with lots of fruit, coconut and chocolate chips. I think I just made myself hungry.

Favorite book: The Lovely Bones and The Glass Castle. Both very dark but beautiful.

Who inspires you the most and why? My dad. He is so kind and loving even when I make it difficult. He works hard and is passionate about what he is doing but, he plays hard too!

When did you start practicing yoga and why? I began practicing yoga in 2002 and continued to casually explore her practice until 2007. In 2008 when the stresses of life and excess weight became unmanageable, I found that a consistent yoga practice was exactly what I needed to balance the physical and mental challenges I was facing.

Why do you assist/teach yoga? In 2009, with the encouragement of Angela, I completed YogaSport Teacher Assistant Program and began assisting. Originally, I participated in TAP to enhance my knowledge of postures and alignment just for myself. But, I finished the program inspired and excited to assist others to find strength and ease in their own practice. Deciding to assist took me out of my comfort zone which is what I needed and I no longer have as much fear of trying things that scare me.

Why do you still practice yoga? Because it makes me feel good. Since completing my triathlon in May, I have been really lazy! I started to feel bad about myself and my body, but within two days of coming back to yoga, I feel refreshed and amazed at how awesome it really makes me feel.

One thing we don’t know about you that would surprise us? I love to dance and drink champagne!

Mine was in the summer of 2001. The place: Oxford, England. I was with a Study Abroad program there, and we had a long weekend coming up. We could go wherever we wanted. We were free to explore England and the continent! I, being the young adventuress I was in those days, wanted to see Paris for the first time. And I wasn’t going t let anything stop me.

So, one morning, I got up at 5 am, waited all by myself (with my suitcase) at the bus stop, and rode the double-decker through the English countryside towards the Victoria Train Station in London as the sun was coming up. I got to Paris 4 hours later with no hotel reservations and no idea where I was going. All I knew was that I wanted to stay in the neighborhood of the Gare du Nord, because that’s where the American ex-pat writers like Hemingway stayed back in the 1920s. I walked out of the Metro station, up to the first hotel I could find and said, “I’m American.” They had a room. And it was cute, and clean, and cheap, and had a cafe across the street from it. Then I walked around Paris, ate crepes with Nutella, went to the Louvre, saw Notre Dame, played with a little bull terrier puppy, ate another crepe with Nutella, and walked and walked and walked.

I’ll always remember that sunrise because it kicked off one of the best days of my life – a day when I had no fear. I seemed to be aware that if I was scared (scared of traveling by myself, scared of having no idea what to do once I got to Paris), I’d lose out on the beauty and opportunity that life holds.

Our yoga practice asks us to show up and shine when we get on our mats, because when we do, good stuff happens. The sun is rising; the bus is leaving. Are you on it?

Please post your favorite sunrise memory in the comments! I’d love to hear about them.

How long have you been assisting and teaching at YS? I took Angela’s 200 hour training last summer, starting assisting this winter and started teaching this summer.

What days/times do you teach/assist at YS? The Beginners Series, Tue & Thu 8pm and I assist Friday’s at 5:30pm.

Family: I have been married to Peter Roland for 21 years but have we been in love for 26 years. We have 4 children: Evelyn, Jason, Britney, and Kenzey; 1 grandson, Thomas. Oh, and a new granddaughter is expected in November.

Pets: Elliott is a Goldendoodle and loves me more than Peter. Titus is a Labradoodle and loves me more than Peter. I keep telling Peter it’s because I feed them, LOL.

Furthest city traveled to: Abu Dabi, UAE

Favorite guilty pleasure: Anything sweet, especially cake/cupcakes

Favorite ice cream flavor: Cherry Garcia and I only buy it in the single serving size. Everything in moderation, right?

Favorite book: A Course In Miracles. It teaches me how to live a life of happiness, free of fear and guilt, and to learn how to truly love who I am.

Who inspires you the most and why? This is a very hard one to answer because there have been many people who have/do influence me. But, my husband Peter is the one person who most inspires me with his unwavering love, patience, guidance, support and encouragement. My world has grown immensely because of all he has taught me and continues to teach me. I absolutely adore, admire, respect and love him.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received? That to be willing is truly the only requirement for personal change and growth.

When did you start practicing yoga and why? In 2004, I attended a beginners series of Hatha Yoga. With over 15+ years of teaching Jazzercise, my body was ready for some healing and so was my spirit. My husband had been telling me for years that I should get into yoga. The Hatha beginners series inspired me to continue practicing yoga at different studios. In 2008, I discovered YogaSport Dallas which, as you know, is a Baptiste Affiliate Studio. The Baptiste style of yoga truly spoke to my heart and challenged me physically. I knew that this was where my yoga journey would really begin. I have been practicing there ever since. In 2009, I completed my 200 Hour Training Certification from the YogaSport Yoga School.

Why do you still practice yoga? It makes me feel good about me, keeps me fit physically and keeps me aware of my connection with my Higher Power. Plus, it continues to teach me how to live my life by being alive and then getting to share that with others. How cool is that?

Why do you teach yoga?  I want to share with others all of the benefits that I experience through my own practice of yoga. Who doesn’t want to feel alive, be healthy both physically and mentally and be in touch with their inner truth to guide them?

One thing we don’t know about you that would surprise us? When I was in the 3rd grade, I won all the trophies in Field Day and others parents were upset about it.

I haven’t posted in a while because I’ve just gone back to teaching another whiplash round of summer school. Time is of the essence. I wake up wondering, “Do I have enough material to cover 2 hours worth of class? Am I going to be interesting/enlightening/not a push-over? Do I need to make another handout? I’ll get to my office 3 hours ahead of time…just to make sure everything’s okay.”

I’m frazzled. I’m way off my game. My mornings are unfocused; my afternoons feel scattered. What gets me on my game? Yoga. Most of our classes at YS are in the evenings; they provide a space for our students (and me!) to re-store after a day of feeling, well, off their game.

Just throwing it out there, but have you ever considered pre-storing? You come to class at 6am. Maybe you’re tired, maybe you have a big day ahead. But you leave fully ready, capable, and balanced to start your day. There is no more mental frazzle, or the mental frazzle has shifted from a deafening, all-consuming roar to something much more managable.

Try pre-storing. Really. Get up and make your day better. They’ll be nothing to fix in the evening because it will all be mended by sun-up.

Join Angela Wagner and guest instructor Brian Lam for a truly unique yoga vacation.  What is pura vida? Simply put, it’s living life to the fullest. Experience it for yourself during this week-long yoga vacation. Fly to Costa Rica, home of gorgeous beaches, laid-back locals, exotic animals, and plenty of sunshine for an escape unlike any you’ve had before. In addition to enjoying the natural beauty of Costa Rica and experiencing all the country has to offer (including surf lessons, delicious food, horseback riding, zip-lining, and much more), you’ll be treated to two yoga classes a day from two of the country’s top Baptiste yoga instructors. What does that mean, exactly? Imagine it: eating a delicious breakfast featuring fresh foods from the native land, an invigorating yoga practice, an afternoon of free time with activities of your choosing, another yoga practice, and a healthy dinner with your new yoga friends. Join us on this incredible journey.

Yoga Vacation Retreat Starting at $1250.  Our retreat is located near Samara and Carillo Beaches in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.  The retreat property is small and space is VERY limited. We can take a maximum of 20 people, if everyone has one roommate (we can do more if you have 3 or 4 to a room). We have several people that are looking for roommates so contact Angela at yogasport@gmail.com and she can help you out.  You save money and more people get to spend the week with us!!

Rebecca Pacheco, on her blog The World According to OmGal, shares some ideas for a pre-workout breakfast. Be sure to check out the rest of her blog, too. She was one of my first Baptiste teachers in Boston and is an all-around cool and inspiring chick.

See you in the morning!

Case in point: while in class last Friday morning, my internal dialogue had hit screech level: “This is too hard. Why does Janie keep talking about using my core? We’re holding these poses too long! Why is she yelling at me? It’s only 6:15am!! Wah!” Now, this all sounds ridiculous; at the time, it seemed like totally rational thinking. What was happening was that I was allowing my ego trump what was going on with my physical body. I had an IDEA of what my practice should have been like, and when that idea didn’t sync up with reality, I got frustrated.

But then I realized, this was great! I wasn’t on yogi autopilot; instead I was really doing yoga – like REALLY, really doing yoga. And I learned a lot from my reactions in that class. I tell my students all the time to show up and shine no matter what, and there I was getting all flustered. Talk about getting a dose of my own medicine!

You’ve heard the expression “get real.” Come to a morning class, and that’s what will happen.

Family/Pets:  I am one of four kids. Three brothers. I have been married to Mark Meyer since June 15, 1991. We met in college at Oklahoma State University. He is my everything buddy. We don’t have children but we have a crazy kitty we adore and he’s appropriately named, “Stinker.” I am grateful that my parents and extended family are all healthy and happy.

Furthest city traveled to: Paris, France

Favorite guilty pleasure: Red wine and amazing cheese.

Favorite ice cream flavor: Peppermint. I chose this because my three brothers did not like it – I could have more!

Favorite book: Developing the Leader Within by John Maxwell. I enjoy reading about leadership and personal growth and like to read about all break through techniques and how to influence change. I am a big believer in continuously reinventing yourself.

Favorite song: Anything by Astrud Gilberto with that amazing Brazilian beat and jazzy cocktail lounge sound.

Who inspires you the most and why? My dear friend Mimmi who owns a dance studio. We met about six months ago and I’m so inspired by her creative dance. We are partnering to bring healing dance and movement to seniors. I can’t soak up enough of her “go get what you want” attitude. Because of her, I embrace my own style of movement and am OK with my style. It’s not about copying someone else but about being original and true to yourself.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received? I learned this early in my marriage because my husband would say it all the time and I relearn it daily. “Ask yourself, what was the other person’s intent BEFORE you assume or react.” The next best thing I learned is about communication.  ”Be direct, specific and non-punishing.” People will listen to what you have to say if you say it with purpose and are respectful.

When did you start practicing yoga and why? I was working in a job that I totally disliked. I was more unhappy with me for staying in the job. For three years I was unhappy in this cycle and I needed to get out. Through the luck of a coupon for YogaSport, I started practicing yoga in 2007. I could see instantly that I was feeling more happy with myself but I was still not taking action to shift away from the unhappy. Through the support of my husband and friends, I decided to shift to a career that is about helping others with life satisfaction. I now have a business where I specialize in helping others with their personal fitness/wellness. I am so grateful to YogaSport because I feel YogaSport is so much about us being happy in our life. We all take that from our practice and community at YS and pass it on!

Why do you still practice/teach yoga? I practice yoga to breathe and feel alive. I love movement and I love the postures. Every time I practice I savor the slowing down. I enjoy being in that mode and it refuels me for life.

Why do you still practice/teach yoga? I teach yoga to pass on the goodness of movement, breath and health. I know that yoga is kind to our body and it will forever be in me. Every time I teach and someone shares how their health or overall well being has improved, I become even more committed to teach.

One thing we don’t know about you that would surprise us. I won a turkey legs contest in college. Not because I had great legs but because of how I moved my CRAZY legs. Oh, and I won a contest for being a preppy alien in college.
 

Sarah E. wants you to know: “I love the 6 am classes! There is no better way to start the day than at yoga. Yes, it’s early. But just try it once or twice. The benefits GREATLY outweigh the few extra minutes of sleep you could get. Your body is loose, and your mind is free of the clutter that comes with a day of work, life, etc. My days always go better when they start at 5:30. And I’m not tired later–I’m more energized. And your evening is free. I promise if people try it a couple of times they will like it.”

Todd S. says that he practices at 6am because he sees “yoga as a therapeutic activity that must be committed to regularly, just like kidney dialysis, or a 5K run, or anything else that’s necessary for maintaining mental and physical fitness. So by getting a session done in the morning, I don’t have to fuss over it for the rest of the day. The 5pm is too early for me, and the 6:30pm is fine, but that cuts the evening in half; which is fine once or twice a week, but if I’m going to do five sessions a week, which I feel is optimal for me after a lot of trial and error, I like to get as many done in the morning as possible.”

Try it, we bet you will like it.

12 Dallas yoga teachers from different area studios coming together to teach yoga for a contribution. Register Now. Donate or collect $108 dollars. Show-up and practice. Show-up and volunteer, don’t show-up but contribute your donation and your spirit and shine from wherever you are on June 19.

The event: Saturday June 19. Northpark Mall Garden area (outside). Register on line at Onelovedallas.org. Sign-up under Janie Montague. Feeling the Love Yet????

Onelovedallas is a part of the Off the Mat into the World Project.

http://onelovedallas.org – Register NOW.

Join Ashlie McGill as she guides you through a three hour, ALL-LEVELS intensive – A TASTE OF BOOTCAMP. Seize this opportunity to take your practice to a place deeper than you ever knew possible. Experience a taste of what happens at these incredible Baptiste programs. You will leave your stress, anxiety and fatigue and emerge with a new strength, energy and power! If you CAN, YOU MUST. Monthly YogaSport members save $10 on this workshop!.

Please eat a light and healthy breakfast before the class. Make sure you have two hours to digest your food before practice. Bring a large towel, yoga mat and water.

Ashlie will be taking a six month baby leave. Join her for her last class of 2010!

Our 40 Days To A Personal Revolution program is based on Baron Baptiste’s best selling book and is designed for both beginning and experienced students. Dedicate 40 days to your physical and mental health and challenge yourself in ways you never knew you could. You will lose weight if you need to, become less reactive and more calm, get in better shape physically, drop bad habits, eliminate negative thinking, reduce your stress level, develop a positive attitude, and shine from inside out. Through daily yoga, meditation and optimal nutrition choices, you will uncover the blocks that hold you back from achieving all that you want in life. Now join us on this magnificent journey to your own personal revolution.

Program Details

• 40 days of unlimited yoga classes

• Daily food, yoga and meditation log

• Lose excess body fat and pounds while gaining strength & flexibility

• Includes Baron Baptiste’s book 40 Days to Personal Revolution

• Private weekly seminars on Sundays from 5:30-6:30pm (These are discussion based meetings, not yoga practices. We highly recommend attending the class before each meeting)

• Journaling – recommended after meditation and practice

Your Commitment

• 4-5 days of studio Power Flow Yoga per week, attend any of our classes on the schedule

• 1-2 day(s) of home practice per week

• Daily meditation practices

• Daily nutrition/meal planning log & 3 day fruit cleanseIf this program speaks to you on any level, now is the time to commit. The 40 Days program has literally changed lives. Let it change yours.

Find more info and testimonials HERE.

Our 40 Days Program featured in D BEAUTY!

“The structure of the 40 Days program helped me to focus on different aspects of my life so that I could make positive and lasting change. The yoga helped me gain strength and concentration and the meditation helped me take a more introspective look at my self. The program can change how you live your life.” -Renee A.

Join Carren and Zach Ballenger as they create a unique journey that combines the worlds of wine and yoga. First, Carren will lead you through a Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga class which will bring you into the present moment and ignite your senses. Then Zach will present a special wine tasting. Make it a girls night out, have a date night with your sweetheart, or just satisfy your own curiosity. Whatever the reason, come and join us for a special Friday night at YogaSport. It will be an experience to remember!

Carren and Zach owned and operated Best Cellars in Dallas for over three years. In addition, Zach is a Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and worked for two of the largest wine and spirit distributors in the country, Glazers and Winebow.

Registration closes on October 1st. Due to the nature of this workshop, space is strictly limited and this workshop will sell out. So sign up today!

When Carren mentioned the other day before class that you all should come visit me and Janie on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6am, I actually heard some chuckles in response! As in, “Ha! Practice at 6am? Don’t make me laugh!” Well, let me share something with you, friends. I did not get up at 4:45 in the morning EVER before I was put on the schedule to teach Tuesdays mornings almost two years ago. I’ll admit, for a couple of weeks, I was zombie-yogini (sorry Alvaro and Barbara!). Then, I was hooked. Seriously, the day is beautiful when it starts so early. This time of the year especially, there is this wonderful pre-dawn scene with birds chattering across a sky that is just barely brightening – BEFORE class! I feel lucky to be a part of it. Then, after class, I get to visit my friend Frank at La Duni on Oak Lawn, chat with him and the other regulars, and sip my cappuccino. It’s seriously like Cheers, only at 7:30am. I look so forward to Tuesdays!

This post from Yoga Journal’s blog “Samadhi and the City” outlines some reasons to practice in the wee hours:  http://blogs.yogajournal.com/cityblog/2008/07/san_francisco_summer_yoga_at_s.html.

See you on Friday (and Tuesday!)

YogaSport Yoga School (YSYS) is an intensive program that will give you the practical instruction and hands-on experience you need to master the Power Vinyasa Yoga Baptiste method. You will emerge from the program with the ability to communicate your new-found skills and knowledge of the practice with confidence and compassion. Whether you feel called to share yoga with others or simply wish to deepen your understanding of yoga, YSYS is committed to your personal growth. Through this process you will not only gain a solid foundation in physical aspects of yoga asana; you will also discover how the practice is transformative on a mental and emotional level. We invite you to seize this opportunity to enhance your life.

Click on our YogaSport Yoga School page for more information and registration.

See what our 2009 participants say:

“Angela was born to teach teachers.” – Jessica

“The program was intense, invigorating, and life changing.” – Melinda

“It is truly a gift Angela. Your light, energy, passion and humility are a beacon and inspiration to me and my YSYS classmates.” – Peg

This 20 hour program is an effective training for new or experienced teachers, aspiring teaching assistants or those who would simply like to deepen their knowledge of the Power Vinyasa Yoga practice. This program will allow you to engage in the method and practice of teaching Power Flow Yoga from an entirely different perspective. A good assist in class will guide students deeper into their practice, creating an awareness that may have taken years to cultivate.

Join YogaSport owner, Angela Wagner, as she starts you on a new yoga journey. Angela has been teaching Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga for over seven years and assists Baron at his Teacher Training Bootcamps and Personal Revolution Weekends.

In this program you will learn the principles of alignment, corrective and deepening hands-on adjustments and how to create effective interactions with students, inside and outside of the classroom. Upon successful completion of this 20 hour program, you will be eligible to apply for the YogaSport Teacher Assisting Program (TAP) and join our incredible team of assistants.

“The assisting workshop was a great way to look at my practice in a new light.  I came away with new insight into how a class functions on a broader basis, as well how I can help make the studio a more pleasant place for everyone.”- John M.

Required Books: Journey into Power by Baron Baptiste
Scientific Keys Volume I: The Key Muscles of Hatha Yoga by Ray Long (Available here on Amazon.com)
Scientific Keys Volume 2: The Key Poses of Hatha Yoga by Ray Long (available here on Amazon.com)

If you are new to Baptiste Power Yoga and would like an instructional course to guide you through the fundamentals and alignment of the practice, our 4 week, 8 class Beginner Series Workshop is for you! Through demonstration, discussion, adjustments, and guided practice, we will provide you with a solid foundation of this dynamic style of yoga. You will begin to experience increased flexibility, strength, cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of well-being and relaxed awareness.

This is a perfect opportunity to take classes with other beginners, learn the basics, and get a solid foundation so you will feel confident attending any of our ongoing classes. This series is designed for students with no previous experience although current students are welcome to take the series as a refresher or to get more detailed instruction.

The series meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 8-9:15pm. Our last series can sell out so do not wait to sign up! All students receive a copy of the book Journey into Power by Baron Baptiste.

Join us for Dallas’ 4th annual Free Day of Yoga. Your YogaSport Team is providing two free community classes on Labor Day morning. Beginner Power Flow Yoga is from 9-10am with Ashlie, assisted by Melinda and Janie. Multi-level Baptiste Power Flow Yoga is from 10:30-noon with Angela, assisted by Ashlie and Samantha. 

Enjoy a fun filled morning of sweaty yoga, raffle prizes, goodie bags and more.  Last year we “sold out” so register online to reserve your spot.  Fifteen minutes before class we will fill free mat space on a first come, first serve basis so come early and bring your signed waiver with you.  Don’t forget your mat, large towel and water.

If you are new to Baptiste Power Yoga and would like an instructional course to guide you through the fundamentals and alignment of the practice, our 4 week, 8 class Beginner Series Workshop is for you! Through demonstration, discussion, adjustments, and guided practice, we will provide you with a solid foundation of this dynamic style of yoga. You will begin to experience increased flexibility, strength, cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of well-being and relaxed awareness.

This is a perfect opportunity to take classes with other beginners, learn the basics, and get a solid foundation so you will feel confident attending any of our ongoing classes. This series is designed for students with no previous experience although current students are welcome to take the series as a refresher or to get more detailed instruction.

The series meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 8-9:15pm. Our last series sold out so do not wait to sign up! All students receive a copy of the book Journey into Power by Baron Baptiste.

Saturday, August 14th

Be Kind to Yourself: Buy Some Jewelry!
Hi yoga friends!
I’ve recently started selling jewelry for Stella and Dot, a fun line of super cute (and affordable!) jewelry that is only available online or through a stylist (that’s me!). I hope you will check out my website, www.stelladot.com/saraheveans, and then stop by my YogaSport trunk show on August 14 to try some on. I’ll be hanging out in the Zen Den with some OJ and a table full of great jewelry! You will have already treated yourself on the inside…why not treat yourself to some great new jewelry, as well? Hope to see you there!

Questions? Email me at sarah.eveans@gmail.com or call at 214.532.9631

Join Angela as she leads you through a Power Flow Yoga party on the mat. Enjoy the Friday happy hour feel with a room filled with blacklights and energetic dance music. It’s Friday night. Be happy.  Do yoga. Shake your asana. 

Oh, and did we mention we will have popsicles after class? Happy hour to follow at Winetastic downstairs.

Do you or someone you know suffer from yogaphobia? Symptoms may include fear of being forced into pretzel-like positions or anxiety surrounding the prospect of being in a room with a group of people wearing stretchy pants. YogaSport can help. Let us ease your mind and join us for a fun and stress free RAW Beginner Class. We all know that you have been talking to your friends about coming to your first yoga class for a long time now. Why not? It’s free! We will introduce the practice through sun salutations, breath work and a break down of some of the most common postures. Join us. You’ll be glad you came.

If you are new to Baptiste Power Yoga and would like an instructional course to guide you through the fundamentals and alignment of the practice, our 4 week, 8 class Beginner Series Workshop is for you! Through demonstration, discussion, adjustments, and guided practice, we will provide you with a solid foundation of this dynamic style of yoga. You will begin to experience increased flexibility, strength, cardiovascular health, as well as a sense of well-being and relaxed awareness.

This is a perfect opportunity to take classes with other beginners, learn the basics, and get a solid foundation so you will feel confident attending any of our ongoing classes. This series is designed for students with no previous experience although current students are welcome to take the series as a refresher or to get more detailed instruction.

The series meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 8-9:15pm. Our last series sold out so do not wait to sign up! All students receive a copy of the book Journey into Power by Baron Baptiste.

Do you or someone you know suffer from yogaphobia? Symptoms may include fear of being forced into pretzel-like positions or anxiety surrounding the prospect of being in a room with a group of people wearing stretchy pants. YogaSport can help. Let us ease your mind and join us for a fun and stress free RAW Beginner Class. We all know that you have been talking to your friends about coming to your first yoga class for a long time now. Why not? It’s free! We will introduce the practice through sun salutations, breath work and a break down of some of the most common postures. Join us. You’ll be glad you came.  

Click the Register Now button to reserve your spot.  If you are new to the studio, download the waiver to save time when you arrive.  Please bring a yoga mat, large towel and water and arrive at least ten minutes prior to class.

Relax. Renew. Destress. What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon!  Join Heather Alexander, RYT and restorative yoga expert for a Sunday afternoon treat.  Take a break from your weekend and enjoy a different kind of practice.  Learn to unwind your body and uplift your spirit in this two hour, all levels workshop.

Restorative yoga is a practice that reduces your stress and improves your health. All postures are done in a passive manner with the support of blankets, bolsters and other props.  Linger quietly in these soothing and well-supported poses as you destress and recharge.  Heather will present a quieting sequence of postures and breath work which will release physical and mental tension in preparation for Yoga Nidra, or “yogic sleep.”  Take your body and mind to a new dimension of Zen. 

A fellow Baptiste teacher and friend just gave us some feedback on Heather’s workshop. “Good vibe, great teacher. I would highly recommend it!” -Brook C.

On June 19th at Northpark Mall, One Love Dallas will host a 108 sun salutation class led by 12 different Dallas yoga instructors, including YS’s Janie Montague. Each instructor is challenged to bring at least 12 students to the event and each student is challenged to raise at least $108.  Janie and The YSC invite you to come along. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Getting started is easy.  Log onto www.onelovedallas.org for complete details and to register. Each participant can either donate $108 or invite others to participate by helping them raise $108. Gather a group of yogis for a pot-luck-dinner or swim party and ask each friend to contribute $10. Host a yoga studio garage sale or book sale and get others involved.  Ask others to help, to be in collaboration with you, and to support you. Students should register online and either bring their donations to the event, or submit them online.

We look forward to being a part of this collaboration and to seeing The YSC gather in the garden at Northpark among a sea of other yoga students and teachers being and breathing for such an amazing cause. If you are interested in being a part of this event, please contact Janie at the studio or log onto www.onelovedallas.org.

• June 19th at CenterPark at Northpark Mall
• Registration Begins at 8:00am
• 108 Sun Salutations – 9am to 12

More on the cause: Off The Mat Into The World (OTM) is a collaborative non-profit organization founded by yogi’s Sean Corne, Hala Khouri, and Suzanne Sterling. Their mission is to harness the power of yoga to inspire conscious, sustainable activism, and ignite grassroots social change. Through OTM, there is a community service component called the Seva Challenge. The Seva Challenge (seva = selfless service), was accepted by two Dallas based yogis, Jennifer Chitwood and Melody Moore. Their service is a commitment to raise $20,000 each through collaborating with their local community. In the process of finding a way to bring the Dallas yoga community into collaboration, they created One Love Dallas and are inviting our community to unite for this extraordinary event. The proceeds from One Love’s challenge will be distributed to OTM’s 2010 HIV/AIDS Service Project in Africa (www.offthematintotheworld.org). Upon meeting their Seva Challenge, Jenn and Melody will go to Africa to provide service in the community we are supporting.

Many of you may subscribe to Cooking Light and if so, you may have come across this delicious, post-yoga treat. But just in case you missed it, the Banana Breakfast Smoothie is delightful. It is light and summery and gives you lots of protein love.  Here’s the link. http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1981739 Hopefully that works. See you on your mat. Peace.

Name:

Favorite guilty pleasure: It’s a toss up between champagne and chocolate.  Please don’t make me choose. 

Favorite ice cream flavor: I don’t eat ice cream (I am lactose intolerant) but I am completely addicted to Red Mango’s Natural Flavor. YUM.

Favorite book: I don’t think I have a favorite book but right now I am re-reading a very inspirational book, A Complaint Free World and working on the 21 day challenge.  I highly recommend it.

Favorite song: This changes monthly but currently it’s “For You From Me” by Jon McLaughlin.  We played it as we exited our ceremony and entered our reception.  I cry every time I even think of hearing it.

Who inspires you the most and why? My mother has inspired me throughout my entire life and the older I get, the more inspired I am.  She embodies courage, strength, energy, love and kindness in everything she does.  She is the most selfless person I know.  I truly admire her for overcoming some very rough challenges in her early life and creating such a safe, loving and fun environment for our family and friends.  She reminds me (without even knowing it, I am sure) that no matter what life gives you, you can always create happiness.  She loves people and will do anything for loved ones.  And, she has the energy of a champ.  Sometimes we call her The Energizer Bunny.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received? “Don’t sweat the small stuff.”  This is a life long process for me.

When did you start practicing yoga and why? I started practicing yoga in 2000.  I was teaching step aerobics at a gym in Austin and had heard that yoga could help with stress.  I went to a class at the gym, hated it, but kept on going back.  The teacher constantly corrected my postures and let me know that I wasn’t getting it right.  I felt angry so I decided to keep going until I could get it “right.” Little did I know, I would never be “right,” but I would discover myself.

Why do you still practice/teach yoga? Yoga keeps me balanced and it inspires me.  Yoga was a huge part of my life when I was just out of college and struggling with my identity.  I continue to discover and rediscover myself on my mat everyday.  I teach because I love to connect with and inspire people.

One thing we don’t know about you that would surprise us. I was on The Ropers Country Western Dance Team at Trinity University.  Yee-haw to this Northerner!

Website: www.coppellhumanesociety.org