LA+Yoga+-+April+2014

FIND YOUR Guru ULTIMATE Jagat Spring KUNDALINI Cleanse! DRIVING GLUTEN OR GLUTEN-FREE THAT IS THE QUESTION IS IT TIME TO 3 LET go? WAYS TO CHANGE Fashion MIND YOUR for festival season PLUS MEDITATION, ASTROLOGY, yogi FOOD AND MORE! layoga_apr2014_covers.indd 1 29/03/14 9:32 PM

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AYUR VEDA AND HEALTH APRIL 2014 features 30 Harness Energy Efficiently The teachings of Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy reveal how to live in harmony with daily cycles. 34 SPRING CLEANSE Curious about different cleanse options? 34 Nikki Hardin offers a user-friendly guide from juicing to herbs. 38 FESTIVAL FASHION 38 Dance, play, and practice with a selection of looks for the summer festival season that take you from day to night. Ralphi wears: Black Belt Headband by Violet Love by Rebecca Michaels. Jewelry by Love Pray Jewelry. 46 Organic Performance Briefs by Yogiiza. Organic Men’s Yoga Pants in White by Yogiiza. Yoga Mat made from Recycled Car Tires by Kharma Khare. 48 3 WAYS TO CHANGE YOUR MIND 22 Changing our perspective includes shifting the external environment, fnding role models, and focusing on the big picture. MY Community YOGI FOOD 10 Events Calendar 48 Why Go Gluten-Free? 12 Open Doors ROCKSTAR FITNESS 16 News 52 Diane Warren ON THE COVER: 18 Destination LA Mara Saranpreet Luthane wears 20 Festival Round Up ON MY NIGHTSTAND Bra by lululemon. Lululemon.com 54 Krishna Das Top/Super T-shirt in coral by TEacher profile Trina Turk Recreation. Trinaturk.com 22 Guru Jagat IN EVERY ISSUE Shorts by Rebecca Michaels. 56 Meditation Rebeccamichaels.com Necklace by Made in Earth. AYURVEDA 58 Media Reviews Mieusa.com 28 Let Go and 62 Astrology Photographed by David Young-Wolff Release 64 Mudra Davidyoung-wolff.com 2 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 2 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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EDITOR'S NOTE PHOTO BY PAM YOUNG-WOLFF MITO AVILES, RAPHI KAMMER, JERICA LAMENS, DAVID YOUNG-WOLFF, MARA SARAPREET LUTHANE, FELICIA TOMASKO. Everything we have to give arises from our practice. All the ways we give and let go are as close as our I’m paraphrasing a bit from words that Guru Jagat, breath. Every inhalation is a chance to take in ener- Kundalini Yoga teacher and founder of RA MA In- gy that nourishes us; every exhalation is a chance to stitute spoke in a recent morning class at her studio. release. In this daily give and take, I’m reminded of Featured in this month’s teacher profile, Guru Jagat words by Lorin Roche in this month’s discourse on the was commenting on the gift and the power of prac- Radiance Sutras, “One principle to keep in mind is to tice, reminding us why practice is so important in our balance purity and strength.” daily lives. Our strength comes in many forms. We can tap into This practice begins on the mat. The mat is a conduit our strength in how we express ourselves, even in how for how the teachings permeate our lives. According we dress ourselves. Our fashion is both statement and to Ayurveda, life is a series of cycles: throughout the protection; practical adornment accessorized with a year, the day, and our lives. As we practice and live sense of fun. Here, we share a selection of clothing within these cycles, we both give to ourselves and take for the festival season, suitable for practice sessions, the time to give way, to cleanse, to purify, to balance. singing, dancing, and celebrating. Within these cycles, there are times to give and to give This month, we also celebrate Earth Day; Natalie Pace up, times to sort through the various aspects of our shares suggestions for how to live for a day without oil. lives, re-evaluate, and let go of anything that no lon- Explore what you can give and what you can give up ger serves us. Spring is a natural season when we en- with the attitude of connecting with a feeling of lov- gage in the releasing and replenishing. Dr Siva Mohan ing compassion to the Earth. With each season and explores our cycles of shedding, offering questions we every cycle, may we benefit more from our practice can ask to invite this cycle into our lives. and have more to give. GIVE WELL Felicia Tomasko 4 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 4 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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AYUR VEDA AND HEALTH EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PUBLISHER Felicia M. Tomasko, RN Douglas R. Corbett Creative Director Managing Editor Justine Power Zoë Kors Consulting Editor Senior Editor Marina Chetner Joni Yung Associate Editors Advertising Executives Jazmine Aluma Westside Regional Kathleen Davis Manager Karen Henry Assia Valova [email protected] Assistant Editors (310) 435-6490 Kiara Kinghorn Olivia Kvitne Eastside Regional Manager Editorial Assistants Emily Herakovich Rachael Cleghorn [email protected] (213) 482-0576 Krishna Khalsa Selah Michelle National Accounts Tiffany Tomaszewski Manager Jane Abram Staff Writers [email protected] Melissa Chua (323) 684-8632 Cheryl Depp Dale Nieli, MSW National Accounts Manager Jessica Malloy Avani Parmar Beth Prandini [email protected] Nadine Truong (310) 344-2107 Contributors Mito Aviles Fran Lyness McKenna Rowe Lisa Burke Leah Marsh Laurie Searle/Lady Yoga Dr. John Casey Natalie Macam Beth Shaw Krishna Das Claudia Micco Jeff Skeirik/Rawtographer Sam Geppi Dr. Siva Mohan Robert Sturman Nikki Hardin Daniel Overberger Jeremiah Sullivan Hemalayaa Natalie Pace Kiyomi Takahashi Kaitlin Huwe Joseph Parra Rita Trieger Carrie Janell Lori Rischer Alisha Vasquez Joe Kara Dr. Lorin Roche David Young-Wolff Patricia Marie Lopez Nancie Rooney Pam Young-Wolff LA YOGA Magazine is published by Bliss Network LLC ™ LA Yoga and Find Bliss are Registered Trademarks of Bliss Network, LLC ® ® 1234 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404 Ph: 310-828-8218 Fax: 888-235-3077 layoga.com / layoga-digital.com PRINTED IN LOS ANGELES layoga_apr2014_text.indd 6 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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CONTRIBUTORS MITO AVILES Where I Pick Up STYLIST My LA Yoga Mito Aviles, a well-versed student of fashion, began studying fashion at a young age and has devoted his life to it ever since. Always ahead of the curve, fashinisto Mito lent his talents as Fashion Editor for ICON Mag- azine, style contributor for independent blogs, fashion stylist for multiple celebs and independent clients, and now fashion stylist and contributor at LA Yoga. Follow Mito on Instagram: @mistertreat, Facebook: mito aviles, Twitter: @meetwithanO. Leah Marsh Stylist Krishna Khalsa picks up her copy of When Leah is not operating her Pilates studio (pilatesx- LA Yoga at Yoga West, where she longbeach.com) in Long Beach, she combines her love leads sadhana early on Friday mornings. for health, ftness, and fashion in her Venice-based Yogawest.com. e-commerce website, Timber Ta Yoga. Leah curates a rebellious range of recommended ftness and fashion gear, yoga retreats, and wellness articles or blogs. WHERE DO YOU PICK UP YOUR LA YOGA? timber-ta-yoga.com Would you like to be featured in a future issue? Please send us a high resolution photo (300 dpi) of yourself with the maga- zine at your favorite location in Southern Natalie Pace California to see yourself in print. Writer Email: [email protected]. Natalie Pace is the author of The ABCs of Money and Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is (aka You Internship Opportunities Vs. Wall Street). She is the founder and CEO of the LA Yoga and the Bliss Network currently Women’s Investment Network. Natalie regularly writes have openings for interns to join our about the importance of fnancial literacy and leads dynamic team. Are you interested in investor education retreats. Philanthropy and a com- making a greater contribution to the mitment to the environment are important parts of her yoga community in Southern California? overall philosophy. Write to us for more information at: nataliepace.com [email protected] Carrie Gabriel MS, RD LETTERS TO THE EDITOR WRITER Tell us what you think about what you read in LA Yoga. We love to hear from you. Email your letters and other corre- Carrie is a food savvy dietitian who has dedicated her life to helping guide others up the stairway to overall spondence to: [email protected] health and wellness. She received a Masters in Nutri- tional Science from CSULA. Currently, Carrie consults for Vision Fitness and Wellness, conducts nutrition SUBSCRIBE seminars and counseling for CIGNA and HealthFit- Sign up for our free weekly email ness, and works as a private practice dietitian. newsletter and our digital edition at: steps2nutrition.com layoga.com/subscribe 8 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 8 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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> INDIAN FILM FESTIVAL, 8-13 APRIL. > EMPOWERING VEGAN WOMEN, 12 APRIL. > Gabrielle Bernstein: Miracles Now, 18-19 APRIL. APRIL EVENTS MUSIC 12 April, 8pm. $30-$40. various studios. Each Friday Night event Asif Ali Khan: The Luckman Fine Arts Complex, features a 75-minute yoga fow with your Qawwali Music of Pakistan Cal State Los Angeles, favorite DJ's or live musicians, inspiring A superstar in his native Pakistan, Asif Ali 5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles. yoga teachers, healthy eats, and well- Khan remains faithful to the sublime tradi- luckmanarts.org ness vendors. tions of devotional Suf music. Experience Ongoing dates, 7-9pm. Various locations. his pure, unbridled voice crying out above Luminous Movement fridaynightyogaclub.com the call-and-response choruses, rhythmic with DJ Drez hand claps, percussion, and harmonium Lu Fam Pro presents the Luminous Move- Aquatic Yoga Pool of his accompanying musicians during this ment with special guests Kirtaniyas and DJ at Shakti Fest unique concert. Drez! Enjoy live music, electronic DJs, vi- Based on the lineage of T. Krishnamacha- 3 April, 8pm. sual artists, and conscious community. rya, this class is a rare opportunity to learn $38 regular, $18 UCSB students. 30 April, 9pm. $10. 21 and over. a therapeutic and effective approach to re- Campbell Hall, Zanzibar, storative healing with natural mineral pools 1 Mesa Rd, Isla Vista. 1301 5th st, Santa Monica. based upon the current Moon and Sun artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu lufampro.com cycles, honoring the divine feminine. 16-18 May, All day. Tina Malia in Concert SPIRITUAL EVENTS Free with festival admission. with Hans Christian Vedanta Society’s 10th Joshua Tree Retreat Center Tina Malia, singer, songwriter, multi-instru- Anniversary Hanuman 59700 Twentynine Palms Hwy, mentalist and record producer, has dis- Celebration Joshua Tree. tinguished herself in styles ranging from Now in its 10th year, Vedanta Society will bhaktifest.com dream pop to world devotional to elec- host the communal chanting of 108 Ha- tronic. With Hans Christian, this concert numan Chalisa mantras starting at 4am. DANCE promises a deep listening experience, flled Enjoy fresh homemade chai along with Paul Taylor Dance Company with virtuosic playing, heartfelt sharing, and healthy snacks and Hanuman’s birthday Still led by the inventive legendary chore- a revelation of spirit and creativity. feast after the singing. ographer Paul Taylor, this world-renowned 9 April, 7:30pm. $20. modern dance company has performed in Urban Yoga, 12 April, 4am-5pm. more than 540 cities in 64 countries over Vedanta Temple, 458 S Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs. 1946 Vedanta Pl, Hollywood. 60 years. Paul Taylor’s dynamic, thought- urbanyoga.org provoking work continues to push bound- vedanta.org aries and remains deeply communicative Karsh Kale and wildly theatrical. Visionary composer and producer Karsh YOGA CLASSES 11-13 April, 7:30pm & 2pm. Kale will present Classical Science Fiction, Friday Night Yoga $34-$125. The Music Center, a new groundbreaking work of classical In- This music-fueled series gathers the LA 135 North Grand Ave, Los Angeles. dian fusion and electronica. yoga community on select Friday nights at musiccenter.org 10 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 10 29/03/14 9:30 PM

> TINA MALIA, 9 APRIL. > SOUND HEALING , 19 APRIL. > PAUL TAYLOR DANCE COMPANY, 11-13 APRIL. Compiled by KIARA KINGHORN FILM to enter. To work with a mandala, practi- the-moment tools to help you bust through Indian Film Festival of tioners frst re-create it in their mind’s eye, blocks and live with more ease. Los Angeles and then imaginatively enter its world. Dr. 18-19 April, 7-9pm. $49-$99. This six-day festival will bridge the gap Durham explores the possibility of recre- Golden Bridge Yoga, between the two largest entertainment ating this kind of experience without years 1357 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles. industries in the world – Hollywood and of meditative discipline. gabbyb.tv India. Thirty-fve flms will be showcased 19 April, 4pm. from or about India, starting with the highly Free with museum admission. Yoga for Fibromyalgia anticipated opening gala premiere SOLD, Norton Simon Museum, and Chronic Pain executive produced by Emma Thompson. 411 West Colorado Blvd, Pasadena. This workshop is grounded in simple 8-13 April, 7pm. $25 flm only. nortonsimon.org movements, breathing techniques, guid- ArcLight Hollywood, ed visualization, and relaxation. Learn to 6360 Sunset Blvd, Hollywood. WORKSHOPS reduce stress and to manage fbromyal- indianfilmfestival.org Empowering Vegan Women gia and chronic pain through sequences Celebrate the vegan goddess in you while that address pain, fatigue, and sleep concerns. Learn from a mixture of theory, KIRTAN empowering others to grow, heal, and re- practice, and the latest scientifc data of- Kirtan and Sound Healing joice in shared sisterhood. This workshop fering hope for one of the most challeng- with Gabriel and the Warriors presents safe opportunities for self-ex- ing health conditions. pression as well as valuable healing tools. of Light 3 May, 2-3:30pm. $20. Explore the expression of your higher- 12 April, 10am-4pm. Yoga Everyone, self throughout this evening of music and $30 includes lunch. 28914 Roadside Dr. #204, Agoura Hills. healing. Be immersed in the healing vi- Temescal Gateway Park, yogaeveryone.com brations of harmonium, guitar, mridanga, 15601 W Sunset Blvd, Pacifc Palisades. and violin, and conclude with a 30-minute veganspirituality.com Yoga for Cancer savasana sound bath with didgeridoo, The workshop is anyone who has experi- crystal bowls, world futes, guitar, harmo- Gabrielle Bernstein: enced cancer. Whether a recent diagno- nium, and vocals. Miracles Now Book Launch sis or many years ago, all ages and levels 19 April, 8:30pm. $20 donation. and Workshop of mobility are welcomed to attend. You Bhakti Yoga Shala, In this two-day event, Gabrielle will lead will learn accessible tools and practices 207 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica. an evening workshop in which she’ll share that you can incorporate into your life. handpicked techniques from the book and radawakening.com Chairs will be provided for those not wish- guide you to combat your most common problems, from anxiety and addiction to ing to be on a mat. LECTURES burnout and resentment. She draws in- 3 May. 4-5:30pm. $20. Mandala Lecture spiration from many of the world’s great- Yoga Everyone, For Buddhist meditators, mandalas are est spiritual teachings to offer spirit-based 2814 Roadside Dr #204, Agoura Hills. not just images to view, but also worlds practices, meditations, and do-them-in- yogaeveryone.com LAYOGA.COM 11 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 11 29/03/14 9:30 PM

OUR COMMUNITY [ open doors] AIReal Yoga Studio Aerial yoga has become more mainstream and has grown in pop- ularity, and more studios are offering the practice. What sets AI- VENTURA Real Yoga Studio in Ventura apart from the others is that it is the frst and only aerial yoga school registered with Yoga Alliance. “Aerial yoga is a form of yoga that uses a hammock as a tool,” 4476 Dupont Ct. Suite B, Ventura. 805-628-2777. Airealyoga.com says Carmen Curtis, aerial yoga founder and owner of AIReal Yoga Studio. It all began with the idea of using a hammock to help deepen the stretch, strengthen the core, and assist in safely inverting without compressing the spine. With a colorful background in the aerial world, from training as a gymnast to creating aerial performances for Cirque du Soleil’s “Le Reve”, Curtis shares her style with the Ventura community and be- yond. Through her teacher training program, other studios have adopted Curtis’ form of aerial yoga. This practice stems from Hatha and vinyasa yoga and uses the hammock to align and assist. “For those new to yoga, they can use the hammock to help them, (while) for the most advanced yogis, we can deepen the stretch and take them to a new level,” Curtis says. The cozy orange-walled studio is nestled within the Airealistic Circus and Flying school, also owned by Curtis. Although aerial yoga is the focus, a variety of other yoga and movement forms are also offered, including Vinyasa Yoga, barre ftness, dance, and Pilates. With an emphasis on community, the space show- cases local artists’ work displayed along the walls; locally-made crafts and natural and organic products are sold in the gift store. Melissa Chua is journalism graduate from CSUN and Los Angeles-based writer. She is an avid crossftter and loves playing with arm balancing poses and inversions. BE THE CHANGE YOGA Be the Change Yoga has created a buzz throughout the Orange IRVINE County yoga community since its opening in December of last year. It boasts the title of OC’s frst donation-based yoga studio. Be the Change offers an eclectic collection of wellness services— 3943 Portola Parkway, Irvine. from Kundalini and kids yoga to acupuncture and yoga therapy. 714-417-9834. Bethechangeyoga.org The emphasis is on “breath-centered asana with modifca- tions,” says Katie Sheldon Allen. She and co-owner Allison Martin Prince drew inspiration from Bhakti Yoga Shala and Santa Monica Power Yoga when they envisioned the impact they want their studio to make. “We want to be a hub of spiri- tual nightlife in OC, with kirtan, live music, speakers, and in- spirational flms.” For yogis yearning for something beyond the physical practice, Be the Change provides an eye-opening array of opportunities to take yoga beyond the mat including spe- ciality classes, kirtan, art installations, a panel discussion about activism, and more. As the name implies, the studio aims to make positive change throughout the community, in part by donating a portion of its profts to various nonprofts. In the short time that it has been open, Be the Change has partnered with area treatment centers and schools, introduced new practices to Orange County, and hosted events that encourage people to step outside their ev- eryday routines and connect authentically with one another. It continues to broaden the defnition of yoga in Orange County. By Alisha Vasquez, a yoga teacher, world traveler, bookworm, and handstand enthusiast: facebook.com/shantiomyoga 12 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 12 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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OUR COMMUNITY [ open doors] One Down Dog One Down Dog’s new studio space in Silverlake is almost as beautiful as the story of how it came to be. After her rowdy SILVERLAKE teenage years, Jessica grew up and decided she wanted to be- come a therapist. During the stressful hours earning her masters degree, she discovered the healing power of yoga, and it became 4343 W. Sunset Blvd. #208, Los Angeles. her dream to open a studio. Countless people told her there was 323-989-DOWN. Onedowndog.com no way she could do it so young or so soon. She proved every- one (including herself) wrong. She began in a shared space with another instructor (bringing her supplies and packing them up daily) and soon segued to her own grand opening of One Down Dog on January 26 with live music and lots of food. Just walking into the open-format second-story space offers a sense of the culture. Studio mascot pup Patrick greets you at the door even before you are warmly welcomed by members of the team. Jessica wanted to create a place that was like a second home for people to escape to, a “community space.” Beauti- ful artwork by studio teacher Joerael Elliot adorns much of the studio, as does a piece by artist Pascal Guetta, creating a unique and fun energy. Classes are offered in two adjoining rooms: a larger space is used for the loud and upbeat yoga dance classes, and a smaller one, for calmer sessions. One Down Dog also offers one-to- one classes, massage packages, and private studio rentals for mindfulness-related events. By Tiffany Tomaszewski, a writer living, loving, and searching for life in the greater Los Angeles area. YOGAMAZé To say that the new YOGAMAZÉ studio is your typical yoga studio is tantamount to saying that its owner, Noah Mazé, is LOS ANGELES your typical yoga teacher. Highly-regarded in the yoga commu- nity, Noah is known as the teacher’s teacher; instead of merely leading the class through a series of poses, he weaves in medita- 169 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles. tion, pranayama, yoga philosophy, and asana alignment cues so Yogamaze.net that every student emerges with an enriched yoga practice. Ev- ery encounter with Noah, as he puts it, “is a journey of under- standing and a deep inquiry of the structures and the principles behind the practice.” Opened in August 2013 as the new home for Noah Maze’s teacher training program, the light-flled studio near the corner of La Brea and Beverly is conducive to expanding one’s physical practice as well as going within to fnd one’s spiritual self. The second foor space features hardwood foors and wall-to-wall windows, a lounge to chat with fellow students, a kitchen to stash your lunch, and a shower to freshen up after class. YOGAMAZÉ invites experienced yogis to come for upcom- ing philosophy and asana intensives. World-renowned scholar Douglas Brooks will be collaborating with Noah Maze for seminars on the Mahabharata in April and the Bhagavadgita in October. Lecture, storytelling, and dialogue will be interspersed with asana practice for the ultimate mind-body experience. A regular class schedule open to the public is currently in the works; stay tuned. by Joni Yung, Senior Editor at LA Yoga Magazine and Host of Yoga Chat with the Accidental Yogist on killradio.org 14 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 14 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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OUR COMMUNITY [news] A Day 2. Ride a bike to work and to do your errands. Plan now to make this happen all day (or all weekend) long. Without Oil 3. If you can't ride a bike or walk, choose mass transit or car- pool, instead of driving, or telecommute to work. 4. Videoconference instead of fying to a meeting. The Ultimate Earth Day 5. Use reusable bags instead of plastic. Celebration. 6. Eat local, organic and low on the food chain. (This means no chocolate or coffee for Americans and Canadians. Acck! BY Natalie Pace. Drink local beer, wine and spirits.) 7. Plant a tree. 8. Pay bills online. 9. Reduce, reuse and recycle. 10. Compost. 11. Replace your light bulbs and CFLs with LED lighting. 12. Test drive an electric car. 13. Send this article to your local newspaper and ask them to publicize Bike Power Weekend. 14. Send this article to 10 friends and ask them to send this art- icle to 10 friends. 15. Join the Facebook community page at: facebook.com/Bik PowerWeekend 16. Have fun. 17. Organize an Earth Day event at a local school; help parents pedal their kids to school. 18. Stop investing in oil in your 401K, IRA, annuity and pension plans. Join NataliePace.com and read You Vs. Wall Street to learn how now. 19. Use wind, solar and geothermal energy to power your home, offce and electric car. 20. If you must drive, gas up on Monday and don't refuel until after Wednesday. 21. Get creative about avoiding gasoline and petroleum products for an entire week! 22. Wear cotton instead of polyester. Ironically, it was on Earth Day, 2010, when the Deepwater Hori- 23. Organize a bike ride in your town or city. zon exploded in the Gulf of Mexico, killing 11 men and spewing at least 4.9 million barrels of oil into the Gulf. This was a wake- 24. Unplug your cell phone chargers immediately after your up call for the Bike Power Community, which has been celebrat- phone is charged. (Leaving it plugged in is like leaving the ing Earth Day as a Day Without Oil ever since. lights on all the time -- a big energy drain.) There are no rules. The Bike Power organizers encourage every- 25. Tour the frst platinum LEED-rated home in the U.S. online one to garage the car and power their lives by bike for a day. at LivingHomes.net. There is so much to learn from and be inspired by taking a day 26. Get more green tips at Energysavers.gov/tips. off from oil. The day moves slower. Ideas spark. Meaningful and lasting change takes root. 27. Learn more about energy effciency retrofts and Passive House building at PassiveHouse.US. 28 Suggestions for Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, 2014 28. Buy and use less of everything! 1. Gift a bike to your local Goodwill or children's advocacy group so that those most in need can pedal their way to health Natalie Wynne Pace is the author of The ABCs of Money and Put Your Money Where Your and greater fscal health, too. Heart Is. Learn more at NataliePace.com. 16 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 16 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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OUR COMMUNITY [news] DESTINATION LA Mindful Awareness at Hammer Museum BY FELICIA TOMASKO Every Thursday at 12:30 in the afternoon, the Hammer Museum’s Billy Wilder Theater offers a guided experience of Mindful Awareness to anyone willing to sit a spell. The weekly class is led by UCLA’s Mindful Awareness Research Center (MARC) Director Diana Winston, Associate Director Marvin Belzer, PhD, and other instruc- tors from MARC. Some sessions are in complete silence after the initial instruction in the technique, while others feature Michael Perricone (pictured, on stage at the Billy Wilder Theater) playing Tibetan bowls to accompany the practice. Sitting in a state of mindful awareness helps us to build focus and concentration, improve attention, reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, smooth out the ups and downs of emotional reactivity, and promote overall health and well-being. The guided instruction -- offered for free to all museum visitors -- focuses on de- veloping the ability to simply sit and actively observe the physical, mental, and emotional experience of the moment, allowing things to be as they are. Meditation in a group supports the individual practice. The positive peer pressure makes it less likely that you will reach for Facebook half-way through the medita- tion session. And the deep states of calm and quiet facilitated by Winston and the other instructors offer a truly rejuvenating lunchtime break amidst the hustle and bustle of Westwood. Bring your friends and take the time to sit. Tour the museum before or after, or just pay attention. For more information, visit: hammer.ucla.edu Hammer Museum , 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90024. 310-443-7000 18 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 18 29/03/14 9:30 PM

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OUR COMMUNITY [ festival round-up] SPRING FLING! April-July 2014. BY Kiara Kinghorn Sat Nam Fest 1 Joshua Tree, California, April 17-20. Satnamfest.com Sat Nam Fest is a four-day immersion into Kundalini Yoga: morning sadhana, kriyas, deep meditations, and ecstatic chanting. Experi- enced teachers and musicians including Snatam Kaur, Mirabai Cei- ba, Guru Singh, and Simrit Kaur will lead transformational classes and concerts suitable for experienced Kundalini yogis and beginners alike. Sat Nam Fest West is located in Joshua Tree, only two hours from Los Angeles on the sacred land of Joshua Tree Retreat Center, where Yogananda has walked. Shakti Fest: A Celebration of the Divine Feminine Joshua Tree, California, May 16-18. Bhaktifest.com Shakti Fest is a heart-opening experience with world-renowned kirtan artists from a variety of traditions including Jai Uttal, Dave Stringer, Donna de Lory, and Wah! The long weekend also includes 36 innovative workshops, and 50 devotional and body-centered yoga classes led by star teachers like Shiva Rea, Sara Ivanhoe, Mark 2 Whitwell, Tim Miller, Saul David Raye, and more, both indoors and and outdoors amongst breathtaking desert views. Shop at the eco- marketplace and dine on vegetarian cuisine on the sacred land of Joshua Tree Retreat Center. Lightning in a Bottle Bradley, California, May 22-26. Lightninginabottle.org For the past nine years, The Do LaB has been producing innovative and inspiring events. Their signature weekend, Lightning in a Bottle, is a fusion of electronic music with installation art, live performance, spiritual workshops, and an overarching embodiment of cultural and environmental consciousness. Much of Lightning in a Bottle’s intimate singularity is expressed through The Lucent Temple of Consciousness, a sanctuary built out of recycled and found objects, 4 which includes over 300 experiences in yoga, workshops, speakers and exotic world music. 3 Women’s Yoga & Hiking RE:treat Telluride, Colorado, July 13-19. Elevatedretreat.com 1. WOMEN'S YOGA AND This week-long retreat focuses on the principles of Forrest Yoga with HIKING RE:TREAT local practitioner Naani Sheva who will combine the healing, restor- 2. LIGHTnig IN A BOTTLE ative qualities of Forrest Yoga with hiking in the breathtaking San 3. SHAKTI FEST 4. Krishna Kaur AT Juan mountains. Enjoy meals prepared using locally-sourced, or- SATNAM FEST. ganic produce. This retreat includes accommodations for six nights, meals, daily yoga, daily guided hiking, and a massage. Guests have the option of adding more experiences. 4 20 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 20 29/03/14 9:31 PM

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TEACHER PROFILE GURU JAGAT Kundalini Driving. by FELICIA TOMASKO PHOTOS by JEFF SKEIRIK/RAWTOGRAPHER 22 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 22 29/03/14 9:31 PM

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TEACHER PROFILE [guru jagat] One of the most notable features of the RA MA Institute for Applied Yogic Curious About Science and Technology in Venice is the gong. It’s the only 60-inch gong in Los Kundalini Yoga? Angeles and the stories around it are the stuff of myth—mixed in with some truth. It takes months to make a gong this size; it was shaped by special order Here’s Guru Jagat’s advice for Van Halen, but the band later changed their mind. Until Guru Jagat found for novices. it lingering on Sunset Blvd—“sad in Hollywood,”—as she puts it, the instru- ment was waiting for the community that would collect and share space with - Observe how you feel before you its magnificent sound. go into class. We could all say that the instrument of our own practice is waiting for just the - Observe how you feel after class. right time to blossom. The time seems to be now for RA MA Institute founder Guru Jagat, who has taken up the challenge of sharing the sometimes esoteric- - Whatever happened in between, feeling practice of Kundalini Yoga (as taught by Yogi Bhajan) in a way that don’t worry about it and don’t is relevant for the urban dwellers of LA. It’s no accident. Guru Jagat believes, think too much about it. “These technologies were developed for these times.” - If you feel better or have more energy, There’s certainly a nod to the times, as the studio even includes ice cream something happened. cleanses (featuring raw coconut cream from the nearby Kippy’s), along with daily 4:00 am sadhana, a Kundalini practice staple. Guru Jagat teaches classes - Come again and see how it goes. every day and is joined by a variety of other instructors who fill the all-day class - Wear comfortable clothes— schedule, including two of her teachers, Tej and Harijiwan. She offers special anything that you can move in. classes during the New and Full Moons, presides over a Sunday night prac- White is said to expand the aura, tice and dinner club, and has hosted all-night practice and gong bath sessions but you can even wear jeans to (complete with slumber party). She is even partnering with Julian Schwartz on class, if you like. a burgeoning record label (RA MA Records). Guru Jagat wants the music to de- liver the teachings to people who may never enter a yoga studio. Her plans are - The turban or head covering hits vast and include everything from fashion and jewelry collaborations to lecture reflex points in the skull and helps series and online offerings, leading to the development of a full-service institute contain the energy. It’s optional, beyond a yoga studio. but try it out and see how you feel. 24 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 24 29/03/14 9:31 PM

“My whole consciousness, my whole nervous system reorganized.” The woman with a bold presence professes to love everything the way she riffs off literature and pop culture references when she about the 80's wears Clippers T-shirts, embraces the Kundalini speaks to the room at the beginning of class. Yoga ethos of wearing white (to expand her aura), and has a col- Before a sense of mission and calling inspired her to open the doors lection of big sunglasses. As she says, “Since I was small, the idea of the studio near Lincoln and Rose, Guru Jagat taught around of understanding reality, as well as devotion and spiritual practice, town for an impressive roster of private clients. Like many peo- were just a part of my life.” She was born with the help of mid- ple who make the leap, she found that opening RA MA Institute wives in a community in Colorado before growing up in West- was “a monumental transformation for me.” As she puts it, “My ern Maryland where she and her family were the only Jews for whole consciousness, my whole nervous system reorganized.” It miles around. Her brother joined the Hare Krishna community at was a quantum leap, one she feels the community has supported. the age of 13. Then, while she was living in NYC with an active Coming together in community to practice Kundalini Yoga was ashtanga practice, Guru Jagat was introduced to Kundalini Yoga. always Yogi Bhajan’s intention, and that the teachings would be Her next stop was the ashram in Espanola, New Mexico, where shared within families to accelerate the clearing of karma. RA MA Yogi Bhajan was still holding court. Subscribing to Yogi Bhajan’s Institute is that family. philosophy of making teachers and not students, she traveled fur- ther west to enroll in teacher training in LA with Gurmukh, Hari- To support herself as well as the collective RA MA family of prac- jiwan, and Tej at Golden Bridge. She subsequently taught for 10 titioners, Guru Jagat rises between 3:45 and 4:30am to begin her years at Yoga West. At this point in time, she professes to have own practice. “When I was an Ashtangi, I got up at 6:00am six more than 10,000 hours of study and training under her head days a week and thought I was hardcore. Little did I know what wrap. “It’s intensive in this lineage -- it’s not just about the creden- my next step would be.” The woman who says she’s never forgot- tial or the certification; it’s about the transmission.” ten her first Kundalini Yoga class states that the experience was like stepping into an energy field beyond time and space. The ef- Guru Jagat’s formal western education began in the CUNY sys- fects have certainly lingered. tem in New York (leading to her aforementioned intro to yoga) before she graduated from Antioch University. Her “good liberal Guru Jagat founded the RA MA Institute for Applied Yogic arts education” of Humanities, English, and Poetry is revealed in Science and Technology. Ramayogainstitute.com LAYOGA.COM 25 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 25 29/03/14 9:31 PM

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AYURVEDA CYCLES OF SHEDDING Cultivating the Energy of Spring Cleaning Allows Us to Let Go and Release. By Dr. Siva Mohan The meaning of the Super Moon we experienced at the launch of 2014, I am told, was all about killing off or releasing relationships that needed to go. I consciously released some; in other relation- ships, I buried the aspects of the relationship that involved the rep- etition of unhealthy patterns. (This is always a work in progress.) At a certain point in our lives, those of us on a conscious path realize that escaping things or running away from them doesn’t really work; it doesn’t truly free us from the negative experience or feelings that situation engendered. We will find ourselves in similar situations. yet with different variables, thinking, “How did I end up here again?” Simply ending the relationship, leaving the job, or moving aren’t necessarily real solutions. The real solution is to change ourselves. This begins with becom- ing more aware of how we act day-to-day and then evaluating our choices: how we respond to situations, how we choose to view them and talk about them, where we choose to focus attention, what situations we allow ourselves to be in, and what we choose to embody and therefore attract. Any cycle of change creates the need to examine even our thoughts surrounding change. The following attitude can leave us stuck in unhealthy situations:“Shouldn't I be able to be happy no matter what?” Ideally, yes, we can build our own strength and resiliency to be happy in any situation. Cultivating this may take some time. We are human, and by nature, we are easily triggered by emotions. (One of my mentors once told me that the purpose of 90% of hu- man behavior is to avoid certain feeling states.) So making choices that support a healthy external environment while we shift our internal environment is paramount to support change. Examples would be making sure to not stock the cabinet with cookies when you are trying to cut back on sweets, or not following your ex on Instagram when you are trying to get over him or her. It is always necessary, and a practice that requires a great deal of attention, to find the balance between running away and stay- ing in an imbalanced energetic environment expecting yourself to magically not be imbalanced. Finding this edge and balance for you is what I call a cycle of shedding. We can tap into the natural cycles and rhythms of the universe to fortify both the shedding process and our own connection to nature. Every month, the waning moon (from the Full Moon to 28 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 28 29/03/14 9:31 PM

the Dark/New Moon) is a time to release emo- tional baggage along with anything that is no longer serving you. Every Spring, when we are supported by na- ture’s abundance and the predominance of the kapha dosha, is the most balancing time for us to shed anything. Personally, I prepare for this for months, first evoking the sensitivity of the fall vata season to learn what I want to release. Then I align myself with that choice in the beginning of the New Year, and allow the shedding to take place in the early Spring. How do you shed something? There are as many methods as there are energetic releases. You just have to have a ritual that symbolizes the transition for you. That could be a fire ceremony, a cleanse, sweat lodge, or simply journaling. With every death, there is a birth. As I kill off the depleting relationship (I’m really killing off the pattern in myself that chooses to be de- pleted in relationships), I birth the me that fol- lows through on choosing nurturing relation- ships. As something is shed, something new is inevitably picked up. I shed that old pattern of choosing depletion and birth the pattern of choosing nurturance. Birth and death always happen simultaneously. How are you going to symbolize that energetic shift in practice—what's your ritual? To me, a ritual is the comprised set of tools that support you to release/birth. What will support you in making this turn of the cycle? For example, if you want to exercise more (or shed inactivity), perhaps part of your ritual is to make a mix of inspiring music to get you up and at it in the morning. This ritual does not have to be esoteric. Allow the ritual to be about knowing yourself and your blocks, and attending to them. Only you can know how to best support yourself through any shedding process. As transition, letting go, and death are all vata energetics (the dosha of air, space, movement, creativity, and change), this sup- port is key to not let these processes imbalance you and to pay close attention to nurturing yourself throughout the process. What did you notice over the last few months as no longer serving your greater good? What will you birth in its place? Now is the right time of year to do it. Dr. Siva Mohan integrates Ayurveda with modern medicine in her Ayurvedic wellness practice and educational programs to defne and achieve whole-being wellness. Dr. Mohan specializes in addressing the psychospiritual basis of healing. Doctormohan.com. LAYOGA.COM 29 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 29 29/03/14 9:31 PM

YOGA THERAPY HARNESS ENERGY EFFICIENTLY Cycling Through the Day for Mindful Practice. BY FELICIA TOMASKO PHOTO BY ROBERT STURMAN According to Ayurveda, the energetic qualities of the doshas (vata, pitta, and Each dosha cycles through the day kapha) rotate throughout the hours so that different influences predominate in twice in a rhythmic pattern: different portions of the day. These shifting energies can affect our practices The pitta dosha predominates of asana, pranayama, and meditation, as well as our strength, mood, state of from 10am–2pm and 10pm–2am. mind, and more. The inherent qualities of the doshas have a strong influence The vata dosha predominates on whatever is happening within those hours. We can fight it, or choose to from 2pm–6pm and 2am–6am. flow with it and utilize practice to help find balance amidst the ever-fluctuating The kapha dosha predominates energetic ripples of the day. from 6pm–10pm and 6am–10am. 30 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 30 29/03/14 9:31 PM

The three doshas are groupings of the five elements: space/ether, air, fire, water, and earth. The vata dosha is composed of space and air; pitta of fire and a bit of water; kapha of water and earth. The elements and their associated qualities give us a clue as to the types of physiological process and states of mind governed by that dosha. Vata, being air and space, is naturally dry, expansive, and mobile; therefore, the vata dosha governs all space and movement in the body, including the movement of impulses through the ner- vous system, the grace and coordination of the body, the spaces inside the joints, and our creative capacity. The pitta dosha, being fire (and a splash of water) is hot, intense, trans- formational, passionate, penetrating. It gov- erns all of the processes of digestion in the body, including the digestion that takes place in the mind: the ability to process our experi- ences and to learn and practice discernment. The pitta dosha also governs our metabolism, radiance of our skin, and our desire and mo- tivation. Kapha, being water and earth, is both grounding (and if we’re not careful, a bit muddy and murky) and stabilizing. Ka- pha governs all structure, stability, strength, memory, and our ability to feel and express unconditional love. Calm Pitta during the Midday and Midnight Hours Let’s think about the implications of these cycles and how we can plan our day and our practices to support us, starting with the pitta dosha. We know that the sun is highest in the sky and the most intense in the middle of the day. These midday hours are often a time of high energy and perhaps greater clarity. Be- cause the pitta dosha is related to the fire ele- ment, the digestive fire is strongest at this time, which is why Ayurveda stresses getting in the routine of eating the largest meal during these midday hours. Feeling low in energy in the afternoon or feeling burned-out at work, the lack of midday fuel, when the fiery dosha of pitta needs it most, may be the culprit. The middle of the day can be a good time to schedule a practice session, as these hours come with a surge of energy. Waiting until af- ter an asana, pranayama, and/or meditation practice to enjoy lunch can help with diges- tion; including twists in the asana practice can stimulate the digestive fire. Beware, though, of the danger of becoming overheated >> LAYOGA.COM 31 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 31 29/03/14 9:31 PM

YOGA THERAPY A long savasana after fully embracing movement can help soothe the nervous system, between 10 am and 2 pm. To reduce pitta, try evoking the sen- For difficulty sleeping during this time of day or feelings of anxi- sation of the body as water moving through water, using cool- ety, try pre-bedtime practices to calm vata, including massaging ing breaths as needed (such as shitali), incorporating meditation the feet while in bed, alternate nostril breathing, a few min- practices that evoke gratitude, love, and compassion (to mitigate utes of legs-up-the-wall before bed, or drinking a cup of warm fiery energy), and making sure to dress in clothing that breathes almond milk alone or with with a soothing herb such as ash- well.After practice, coconut water, water infused with mint or a wagandha. These can help calm to a cool breeze the hurricane little aloe vera juice can all dispel extra heat. winds that can blow when vata is out of balance. However, if The day’s second pitta surge begins around 10 pm, leading to a you wake up during this time of day restless or ready to engage late-night second wind. For this reason, Ayurveda suggests going in practice, try indulging in a long meditation, a series of sun to sleep before 10 pm. Falling asleep (or at least moving in that salutations, or pranayama practices that enhance mental clarity direction) before the fire rises also directs the energy of digestion and connection. toward deeper healing in the body. The hours of deep sleep that occur during this cycle of the day are vital for the metabolic pro- Stimulate Kapha, Enjoy Strength cesses that support rebuilding. If you are trying to rebuild in any The kapha times of day are times of strength, particularly in the way, utilize this energy appropriately for repair. morning, which for many are one of the most productive times To combat the effect of runaway fire that shows up as irritability or of the day (particularly if a person arises and gets ready before difficulty falling asleep, try adding cooling practices to an evening sunrise, or before this time of day begins). routine, such as walking or bathing beneath the moonlight, drink- If you’re sleeping late and having trouble breaking the pattern ing water left out to absorb the rays of the moon, meditating and because it feels as though you’re waking up and having to fight envisioning the light of the moon, practicing a late-night restor- through a heavy, wet blanket (the energy of the kapha dosha), ative, or engaging in a few rounds of alternate nostril breathing. the remedy is to shift the waking cycle to getting up before or around sunrise and engaging in a few sun salutations, standing Ground Airy Vata in the Afternoon and Early poses, or other warming practices (including the breath) to break Morning up the stagnation. Understanding that the mid-afternoon is the vata time of the day The evening kapha time is one of the peak times in most yoga reveals something about why we may experience be a mid-after- studios, where classes are full of people needing to shake off and noon crash, particularly if we have ignored the instruction to eat counteract what may have been a sedentary day. When we use a hearty lunch. Since vata is emptiness, when emptiness takes this kapha strength to move through stagnation, to uplift our- hold in the world around us, our energy sinks. selves, to connect to the truth within the heart, then it cultivates Try practices to get moving and get in touch with the breath. the deep and sustaining strength of the earth element. Standing Take extra care to stay grounded rather than succumb to the im- tall, balancing poses, sequences that include warrior poses or that pulse to simply fling the body through space. Throughout prac- evoke the warmth of the sun, sessions that incorporate gentle tice sessions, maintain awareness and connection with the actual warming pranayama practices—all of these can create balance feeling of the feet on the earth, the strength in the body, and the within this time of the day. flow of prana, or life-force, through the nadis (energy channels). Every time of the day has its potentials and its pitfalls. When Warming breaths (as long as they are not overdone) can stoke we observe the cycles for what they are, rather than becoming the internal fire during the naturally cold early morning. A long frustrated, we can experience clarity and harmony every hour savasana (resting pose) after fully embracing movement can help of the day. soothe the nervous system, which can be prone to irritation dur- ing the vata time of day. Stay hydrated to cultivate balance. This article originally appeared in Yoga Therapy Today, The early morning vata time, the predawn hours, are valued by published by the International Association of many traditions for their powerful effect on connecting with spir- Yoga Therapists: iayt.org. The upcoming Conference itual potential, intuition, and the great expanse that exists both Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research will be held beyond and within the body. Interestingly, this is the time of day in Austin, Texas, June 5 - 8: sytar.org when a person’s sleep cycles allow for the most space within the land of dreams—the intuitive movement within the psyche. Felicia Tomasko is the Editor of LA Yoga Magazine. 32 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 32 29/03/14 9:31 PM

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DEMYSTIFYING YOUR SPRING CLEANSE by Nykki Hardin Spring is a time of birth and blossoming. It is also a time of transition and of letting go to create space for new beginnings. Understanding the energy of the season helps us to better integrate the tradition of spring cleaning our homes and spring cleansing our bodies. A cleanse is a ritual intended to purify the system of anything that is causing harm or hindering development. When we embark on a cleanse, we are sending out a message of self-care and committing to letting go of habits, behaviors, and attachments that are not serving us. Clean out your body and get your food story straight, and the other pieces of your life will fall into place. Disrupting our nutritional habits creates a heightened sense of awareness in all areas of our lives. It is nearly impossible to undergo a cleanse and not notice the health of our thoughts, emotions, and relationships as well as the choices we have made and continue to make. It is a process of decoding the system and provides a clear understanding of true nurturance. As a result, we become aligned with our heart’s deepest desires and willingly let go of anything that is standing in the way. Herein lies our true opportunity for growth and expansion, as we are now pure vessels engaging in conscious creation and living with purpose. >> LAYOGA.COM 35 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 35 29/03/14 9:31 PM

- If possible, go cold. Cold-pressing juices reduces oxidation and many sources suggest that they tend to be more nutrient dense. - Read labels to ensure all ingredients are organic, nothing is from concentrate, and there are no added sugars. - Choose or make juices with a wide variety of vegetables. Mini- mize fruits and high-starch vegetables (carrot and beetroot) to reduce sugar. Juicing is a method of dramatically increasing live enzymes and nutrients while simultaneously giving the body a break from digesting processed foods, alcohol, sugar, meat, and harmful chemicals. This is a great tool for resetting our relationship with food, and can facilitate longer- term dietary changes as food becomes reintegrated with conscious intention. specifc food cleanse Often a raw, vegan, gluten-free, mono-diet (Ayurvedic kich- ari), or whole foods nutrition regimen. Length of time varies, but usually 14-30 days. Benefits: - Kickstarts a health regimen and create new eating habits. - Eliminates toxic and infammatory foods. juice cleanse - Overcomes cravings and disrupts destructive cycles of poor nutritional choices. - Encourages a new cooking repertoire and reshapes the palate. Offered by multiple companies and juice bars, it can also be Considerations: prepared at home with a juicer and a list of recipes. Duration - Beware of marketing and buzzwords when grocery shopping varies, usually lasting three, fve, or seven days. or eating out. Labels like vegan, raw, all-natural, and gluten- free do not necessarily mean healthy. These foods can contain Benefits: processed or GMO ingredients, chemicals, and preservatives. - Delivers a large amount of nutrients and live enzymes to the body. - Read labels, focusing on ingredients as opposed to nutritional value. A good strategy: If you can’t pronounce it or don’t know - Gives the body a rest from digestion (especially the digestion what it is, then it’s probably not good for you. of processed foods, alcohol, fast food, fried food, chemicals, additives, preservatives, and other substances). - Ask questions about food preparation when eating out. Many dishes are prepared with unhealthy oils and loaded with fat - Interrupts a cycle or pattern of destructive food choices or and sugar. binging on substances, including alcohol. - Nuts, seeds, and coconut oil are healthy if eaten in moderation. Considerations: - Ideally, this type of cleanse emphasizes clean eating. Depend- - The fresher the better. Enzymes and nutrients are time sensitive ing on the program, it may or may not be “healthy,” low-fat, and decrease the longer the juice sits. or low-calorie. Education and awareness around ingredients is important, whether you are eating at home or out. - Choose unpasteurized. The heating from pasteurization re- duces the amount of vital enzymes, denaturing the benefts of - Long-term, many of these diets are best served by taking food the juice. and superfood-based supplements to ensure proper nutrition. 36 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 36 29/03/14 9:31 PM

30 day clean eating cleanse Spring cleaning our external environ- ment and internal landscape also clears space for new growth and expansion. This is a balanced and sustainable way to eliminate toxins Here are two additional rituals to and identify allergens. consider this Spring: EAT ONLY THESE (Everything organic) 30 day digital detox - Fruit and vegetables - Set aside one day per week cto be ompletely free of all - Herbs technology. Unplug from your phone. Avoid the inter- - Beans net, email, texts, and social media. - Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, millet) - Try turning your phone off for one hour per day. - Fresh-Pressed organic oils (olive, coconut, hemp) - Limit your social media time to a specifc one-hour block and/or ghee (clarifed butter) twice daily. - Nuts and seeds - Herbal teas, coconut water and fresh juice purge the clutter & chaos SKIP THESE COMPLETELY - Remove anything you have not worn from your closet and drawers within the past year. Donate! - Meat and dairy - Rise 20 minutes earlier every day to practice a sitting - Sugar meditation. - Salt - Take inventory of the top 5 - 10 people you spend the - Caffeine most time with in your life. Notice which relationships - Bread and pasta are positive and fulflling. Spend more time nurturing relationships with those who nurture you back. - Wheat, corn, and soy - Fried, packaged, and canned food - Alcohol - Anything containing an ingredient you cannot pronounce - Most herbal cleanses also allow complementary whole foods, but proper nutrition is critical to receive the greatest beneft from a detox. Make sure you are educated in terms of wise cleansing with herbs food choices and the timing of meals with herbs. - Many herbal laxatives are packaged as cleansing aids, but can cause more harm than good. An increased number of trips to the bathroom does not indicate a more successful detox. Usually marketed as a full-body cleanse, liver cleanse, colon cleanse, or parasite cleanse. Average duration is anywhere If a good herbal formula is used and a proper nutritional pro- from 5-30 days. gram followed, an herbal cleanse can serve as a powerful method for healing, eliminating stress and toxicity in the body, and re- Benefits: storing balance. The corresponding nutritional program should - Aids in the detoxifcation process by enhancing the body’s natu- increase alkalinity, decrease infammation, break destructive eat- ral ability to repair damage. ing habits, eliminate cravings, and support implementation of a - Addresses multiple body imbalances simultaneously. healthy lifestyle. An herbal cleanse can also identify the existence of deeper imbalances that need to be addressed. - Can eliminate harmful bacteria and other organisms. - Kickstarts a health regimen by resetting and restoring the system. IMPORTANT NOTE: It is best to work with someone who is skilled in the science of cleans- - Eliminates cravings and breaks one out of destructive eating ing to ensure you are conducting any program safely and effectively. It is also important to cycles and alcohol binging. consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any regimen. Safe and proper cleansing takes time, attention, and dedication. Nykki Hardin is a Natural Health and Lifestyle Educator and founder of Reset Self Cleanse. Considerations: She combines her knowledge and expertise in nutrition, herbs, and the mind, body, spirit - Use a high-quality product that contains only organic, herbal connection with her experience working at cleansing and fasting resorts, in a metabolic ingredients free of additives, binders, fllers, or other unneces- testing lab, and in health education. She believes in the body’s inherent intelligence and ability to heal, and is dedicated to sharing and teaching the tools and information nec- sary and sometimes toxic material. essary to thrive in today’s busy, overactive world. Resetself.com, [email protected] LAYOGA.COM 37 layoga_apr2014_text.indd 37 29/03/14 9:31 PM

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PRACTICES [Spiritual Core Empowerment] Perspective as a Power Tool 3 Ways to Change the Way You See Things. BY Zoë KORS “I kind of quit surfing when I got what things look like from there. Adding an tend to be focused on the intensity of our out of high school, but then a few element of physical exercise draws energy own personal experience. Taking a moment years ago I started to take it up from the mind to the body — breaking up to balance the micro with the macro can be again. I’m not an expert by any fixated thought patterns, and opening up like a breath of fresh air. “How does this means, but it’s so wonderful to get pathways to a new perspective. moment fit within the larger context of my out in the ocean and get a different life? What feels important about this? What perspective on things.” 2. Try on a Role Model values are being challenged?” are all ques- We all have people in our lives we admire. —Jeff Bridges Maybe they have qualities we find admi- tions which have a perspective shift built rable, or maybe it’s the sum total of how into them. Another way to reframe is to ask It’s part of the human condition that we they show up in the world. When we are yourself what you would like to say about come upon challenging moments when it struggling with a situation in our own this moment when you look back at it five feels as though the people in our lives, or lives, it can be a great exercise to try on years from now. Considering the context even life itself, are beating us down. Or the persona of someone we would like to of our personal life history is often just the perhaps there is a specific aspect of a situ- emulate. Ask yourself, “What would the change in perspective we are looking for. ation or relationship that is showing up as Dalai Llama do?” Whether it’s your sister, a persistent source of discomfort. At these your teacher, or Meryl Streep, borrowing Zoë Kors is the Managing Editor of LA Yoga Magazine, a cer- times, we lose objectivity and become im- the consciousness of someone we look up tifed life coach, writer, mother, yogini, existential detective mersed in our own myopic experiencing of to and applying it to our own situation can and vortex surfer. She offers Spiritual Core Empowerment the circumstances. Emotional pain has a fast track a shift. programs for women, in which she draws on the principles way of clouding our vision. The suffering of Eastern philosophy and the healing practices of yoga, breathwork, and meditation and blends them with more can be compounded when we react with 3. Pull Focus on the Big Picture process-oriented modalities of Western psychotherapy. emotional charge, without the benefit of When we are in the thick of a situation, we For more information contact: Zoekors.com time and distance to balance the way we see things. The first step in deciding what to do with something is choosing how to be with it. Perspective can be defined as the inter- relation in which a subject—or its parts—is viewed in its context. Bringing choice to the way we hold our experiences releases us from victimhood and hands us back our personal power. As Byron Katie says, “Don’t believe every- thing you think.” So how do we change the way we perceive things? Here are 3 ways: 1. Change Your Geography Changing our external environment can shift our internal landscape. Going to a yoga class, taking a weekend out of town, or even just stepping away from our desk for moment, can not only divert our at- tention, but the visceral feeling of a new environment can cause a somatic shift in consciousness. How many times have you said, “Let me look at this from a differ- ent angle?” Taken literally, it means mov- ing your body to a different location to see 46 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 46 29/03/14 9:32 PM

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YOGI FOOD WHY GO GLUTEN-FREE? We hear about it all the time. Even Trader Joe's now marks their foods as GF. Find out who should and shouldn't be eating gluten and why. BY Carrie Gabriel, MS, RD Gluten is a protein found in wheat and the following foods: bar- ley, bulgur, cereal binding, couscous, durum, einkorn, emmer, farro, graham flour, kamut, malt, malt extract, malt flavoring, malt syrup, rye, semolina, spelt, triticale, wheat, wheat bran, wheat germ, and wheat starch. It is known to cause inflam- mation in the intestines of people with celiac disease. People with celiac disease need to be on a gluten-free diet; for this group, eating foods with gluten damages the lining of the small intestine. A little background: In healthy people, the inside of the small intestine is lined with finger-like projections called villi. The main function of these villi is to increase the surface area of the small intestine so that the body can better absorb the nutrients in food. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small in- testine. This damages the villi, causing nutrients to pass directly through the digestive tract and be excreted with the body’s waste, often causing this person to suffer from malnutrition. So who needs to go gluten free? This is a major argument in today’s society. Some say that no one should eat wheat. There is research that claims that humans do not fully digest wheat and that the undigested portions ferment and create gas in our sys- tems. Many claim that wheat is considered a pro-inflammatory agent. When consumed, it is quickly converted into sugar, causing a rise in the body’s insulin levels, which leads to inflammation at the cellular level. Wheat is also believed to cause leaky gut syndrome, where toxins, undigested food, and waste leak from your gut into your blood stream. Another consideration is that refined wheat, which is what many of us tend to eat, has little to no nutritional value, anyway, because processing has stripped it of most of its nutrients. 48 LAYOGA.COM layoga_apr2014_text.indd 48 29/03/14 9:32 PM