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Getting in touch with your inner self, let alone staying deeply connected with another, has never been more difficult. We are all surrounded by many distractions every day, and this can lead to some negative impacts on your relationship and your bond with your partner.

Constantly working on a positive attitude and a solid relationship with your partner can take work. Other times it may seem such an easy thing to do. Yoga retreats for couples have always been considered a healthy approach to maintaining the optimal functioning of a relationship. This is a great opportunity for you to focus on nourishing your connection, dedicate some time to each other, and provide some time for yourself as well.

If you feel like the stress of everyday life is wearing you and your partner out, then it might be a good time to realign. A yoga retreat where you can meditate and focus on bonding activities may be the perfect approach to rekindling the fire between you.

Before going into an extensive search of yoga retreats around the world, you might consider some of the best yoga retreats for couples we offer around the world!

EXPLORING FULL CIRCLE YOGA SCHOOL

We believe we offer some of the best yoga retreats that you can find. Once you have infused yoga into your life, you will be able to reap the benefits from it almost immediately. Our spectacular locations and deeply healing retreats can provide you with soul-level rejuvenation and nourishment. Once you realize the spectacular benefits of experiencing this, you’ll want to come back again and again!

Take a look at our locations and further explore our wellness retreats.

FLORIDA

Florida has always been an excellent host to all those who want to relax and have a good time. Choose between our retreats in Sarasota, Cocoa Beach, and Key West for an intimate and soul fulfilling yoga retreats experience. Once you and your partner set your mind on detoxing your entire life (and maybe relationship), pack your bags and decide on a location. We suggest Key West. It is a couples’ paradise. You will not only revel in the benefits that come from continuous yoga and meditation. You will also experience an excellent array of amenities such as a couple's massages, biking, and great restaurants.

Learn more about our Florida Retreats

CALIFORNIA

Who doesn’t love California? Our 4 day and 3 night retreat in San Diego is a perfect little getaway for a full reset. Enjoy our bed & breakfast, unlimited yoga classes, massage, healing sessions, paddle boarding and more! Pure bliss!

Learn more about our California Retreats

PERU

Join Jolie Wilson our very own FCYS Owner & Founder & Mindy Quesenberry owner of Radiant Vida as these two powerful industry leaders team up to offer you a sustainable luxury retreat experience at Willka T'ika. Recently recognized by CNN Travel, Vogue and Yoga Journal as one of the world's top ten wellness retreat venues you will be in awe of the breathtaking gardens and mystical surroundings. Steeped in relaxation, sacred ceremonies, massage, yoga as well as breathtaking adventure full of rich culture and exploration this retreat is a journey that fuses mind, body, soul. Come and be inspired!

Learn More About Our Peru Retreat

OUR OTHER YOGA EXPERIENCE LOCATIONS

We also over other yoga experiences that you can enjoy in Bali, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Hawaii! And we hope you be adding more yoga retreat locations soon!

Both you and your partner would be amazed by the wonderful benefits that come from experiencing a yoga retreat for couples together. Enjoy the newfound bliss and enter a new era together – the era of happiness and love!

If you love practicing yoga and want to try our any of our experiences, solo or together,check out our shop! You can find much more information there on all of our offerings, as well as dates and ways to book! Trust us, these life-changing retreats can help you experience life to the fullest! Just check out our reviews!

EXPLORE OUR YOGA RETREATS FOR COUPLES!

Building trust and intimacy are of utmost importance in successful relationships. Having a partner you can rely on is important for everyone. In essence, the longevity of a relationship is defined by the love and the strength of you and your partner – it reflects upon your dedication to one another.

Many couples are eager to maintain this. Further deepening your relationship can help you rise to a higher level as a couple. One thing that can help connect us on a deeper spiritual level is yoga.

If you want to nurture a deeper connection with your partner, then yoga is a great area to explore. Creating the conditions for more openness and trust might be exactly what you need. There are plenty of yoga poses for two that you and your partner can try together. Today we are going to take a closer look at a few yoga poses that can help you deepen your connection to mind, body, and your partner.

1. PARTNER BREATHING

You can start this pose by sitting with your legs crossed, and with your backs resting against each other. Allow yourself some time to connect with your partner. Place your hands on your knees, and start focusing on your breathing. How does your rib cage move? At which moment does it touch your partner’s back? After a while of inhaling and exhaling together, start with alternative breathing. When you inhale, let your partner exhale and vice versa. Practice this yoga pose for two for a couple of minutes. It has proven to be an excellent asana that will help you connect with your partner.

2. PARTNER TWIST

Start in the same position as the previous exercise. Sit, have your legs crossed, backs against each other. Once again, give yourself the time to reconnect with your partner. Place your hands on your knees. As both of you take a deep breath, reach up with your hands. Then, as you exhale, turn to the right. Place your right hand on the inside of your partner’s left knee and your left hand on the outside of your right knee. Your partner should do the same. Maintain this pose for three to five deep breaths. Then, do the same thing on the opposite side. This asana is ideal to try when practicing yoga for couples, and it can elevate your mood and calm your mind.

3. TEMPLE

You start this acro yoga position by facing one another while you are in a standing position. Leave some space between you. After that, inhale, extend your arms over the head and bend your body forward until you touch the hand of your partner. Make a forward fold while bringing the elbows, hands, and forearms to rest on your partner. Make sure to rest equally, leaning on each other. Then, release the tension from your chest, and let your belly remain parallel to the floor. Make five to seven breathing cycles, and then release each other. This particular pose helps in opening the chest and releasing a positive and energetic heart.

4. TWIN TREES

This is another interesting acro yoga position where you start standing next to one another, but facing in the same direction. As you are only standing a couple of feet apart, bring your palms together in the shape of the letter T. Or, you can even draw the elbows and the palms together in the shape of a cactus. Start shifting all of your weight on your right foot, and allow your partner to do the same, but with their left foot. Make sure to draw the opposite leg against you in a tree pose, and let your partner do the same. Try to balance this yoga pose for two for about five to seven breaths. After that, release the pose, turn around and face the other side. Repeat the asana once again. Yoga challenges you in a way that will make you put your focus on one thing at a time. This particular asana will have that precise effect. Also, it is ideal for opening your hips a little bit more and increasing flexibility.

5. DOUBLE-DOWN DOG

Last but not least, this acro yoga pose is perfect for those who like to practice yoga for couples. Stand in front of one another in a tabletop position. Bring your knees and feet back a bit. As you exhale, lift the body upward into the shape of the letter V. Start walking backward until your feet reach the lower back of your partner. Communicate with your partner and update each other on whether you are comfortable or not. In fact, this is the most important aspect when you are doing yoga for couples. Then, bring yourself back. Once you are released from each other, step into the child’s pose – it will release the tension in the back. When it comes to yoga poses for two, this asana is by far the most amazing bond you can make.

A couple tips to remember.. Strengthen your bond to one another physically, and relax. Ensure that you are both getting the maximum out of the experience, and talk to each other through each pose. Keep it light, keep it fun, and focus in on the energy you are sharing together to achieve you mutual goals in these poses. (Also, don’t be shy to take some pictures for the gram! Tag us in your poses@fullcircleyogaschool, and let us see what you’re been able to achieve together!)

After you have done all the poses for the day, you may take a deep breath and lie next to each other. Let your bodies cool down and completely relax. Enjoy the present moment and feel the love from your partner. Creating a higher spiritual bond is the core of this activity. The best part of practicing yoga poses for two is that it is a terrific way to get to know the feelings of your partner, deepen trust, and connection.

Allow yourself the opportunity to become closer to each other, and your inner selves. Improve your general well-being by remaining connected. If you wish to experience something even more fulfilling, we can also assist you in achieving a deeper bond!Consider any of our yoga experiences or retreats to continue your path of deeper wellness, shared experience and connection! 

EXPLORE OUR YOGA EXPERIENCE AND RETREATS!

Hello Moonbeams!!!

“The full moon...the mandala of the sky”~tom robbins

August is the 8th month of the year, and in both astrology and numerology, the number 8 is all about rebirth and transformation. It’s no secret that we’re smack dab in the middle of some pretty big transformational shifts.

June ushered in the first in a trio of Supermoons, and on August 11 (9:36pm et/6:36pm pt) we will see that last Full/Supermoon of the year rising in the unconventional, revolutionary sign of Aquarius. And, lovelies, that Aquarian vibe is just what we need right now to bring clarity into our lives…still intent on forging the path to a place where we are One Planet, One Human Family, One Living & Breathing Being.

Be prepared…the demands for change, civil rights and liberation, will definitely get louder now. Uranus and Saturn co rule the sign of Aquarius. Saturn, the planet of karma and Uranus, the planet of rebellion and change, pretty well guarantee a strong focus on out of the box thinking this month. And just to solidify all things astrological, Aquarius is the ruler of the eleventh house, the area that pertains to friends, community and groups...idealism and freedom from old values and beliefs.

On this most important month exchanging magickal energy with the moon can help dreams become reality. Crystals and oils can aid on the journey. Tap into that third eye with sodalite or amethyst and stay grounded with red jasper or smoky quartz. Frankincense will deepen the breath and open the 3rd eye, wild orange will uplift your spirit and release old patterns and, last, but not least, my favorite of all, Vetiver, to help you remain rooted, grounded, and open your heart.  

Tomorrow as the full moon rises, I will stand at the shore of the sea and draw Her power directly into me. When you open your heart and mind something mystical happens as you hear your truth. The water bearer reminds one to stay grounded as she waters the soul and humanity as a whole. You're as luminous as the moon. As powerful as the water bearer. May we continue to inspire and be inspired. May we walk together in our resilience and magick. Enchanting and mysterious, under the Full Moon, we embody it all.

Aquarius rules the legs...yoga poses that will limber up your legs and keep that circulation flowing include:

Hero Pose ~Low Lunge (all varieties) ~Modified splits (use a block, bolster, or blanket, if needed) ~Dancer Pose~Head-to-knee Pose~Cobbler’s Pose~Legs-up-the-wall Pose

Have you ever wondered why there is so much emphasis on self-care? Or why self-care is  important? Do you regularly find time to take care of yourself?

Indulging in self-care activities is clinically proven to boost your mood and amp up your productivity. This includes dedicating some time from your busy routine to yoga and meditation. It also means spoiling yourself every once in a while with luxurious baths. For some, this can be journaling or taking deep breaths every morning. For others, it can be enjoying and reconnecting in a wellness retreat. Self-care varies for different people. However, the main aim of practicing mindfulness is to improve your overall wellness and general wellbeing.

Self-care is crucial for maintaining your health because it gives you a sense of self-compassion and self-love. It encourages you to engage in physical exercises that are beneficial for your body. It also includes indulging in meditation or yoga to improve your spiritual health. Self-care also refers to eating healthy and nutritious food. Once you start implementing it in your daily routine, you will observe a dramatic decrease in unproductive and sick days. Additionally, self-care activities help minimize stress and frustration. They increase the secretion of the serotonin (happy) hormone. In short, these small steps assist in taking care of your physical and emotional well-being.

WHAT IS SELF-CARE?

Many people are confused when it comes to understanding the real meaning. To bust the myth, indulging in self-care activities is not synonymous with being selfish. In fact, it is a health-oriented approach that focuses on improving the overall wellness of an individual. This can be done by improving nutrition, engaging in physical exercise, practicing yoga, meditation, or journaling, maintaining your hygiene, and taking care of your mental and physical health.

According to WHO, self-care is defined as the ability of individuals to maintain their health and promote the active management of illnesses.

It is more of a lifestyle that enables people to intentionally take care of their physical and mental health. This multi-dimensional system is solely focused on enhancing the well-being of an individual. Please remember that self-care is a priority and not a luxury. Make intentional efforts to include self-care activities into your daily routine. Why? Because they help you to restore balance and eliminate stressors from your life. There are 5 major areas of your life where this is especially vital:

• Physical
• Mental
• Emotional
• Spiritual
• Social

BENEFITS OF SELF-CARE

Why self-care is important? Because it has numerous benefits that can help you improve the overall quality of your life. It also helps in improving your interaction and building healthy relationships with other people. You can never pour from an empty cup. Similarly, you need to look after yourself first so you can take care of your loved ones better. Indulging in self-care means eating well, getting enough sleep, moving your body, relaxing, and practicing physical and mindful exercises. In the hustle and bustle of our busy daily lives, this aspect of taking care of ourselves is often neglected. Thus, you need to find some time to nurture your well-being intentionally and actively. Naturally, this will have amazing effects on your physical and mental health – when you feel better from the inside, you radiate positivity and happiness on the outside.

Here are some benefits associated with self-care that make it an integral part of an individual’s life. Let’s have a look:

HELPS REDUCE STRESS AND ANXIETY

Self-care enables you to be more resilient. Taking care of yourself helps you manage stress and anxiety. In the midst of everything that is happening in real life, dedicating a few minutes to self-care activities can help you to become more relaxed, focused, and entered. Inner happiness and satisfaction play an integral role in eliminating outside stressors.

AMPS UP PRODUCTIVITY

If you are struggling with low energy levels or have trouble focusing on work, we can help you out.

Self-care activities like yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques enable you to enhance your concentration and elevate your energy levels.

HELPS YOU RELAX AND SLOW DOWN

When was the last time you actually took some time off to relax? Or said ‘no’ to something that you didn't want to do?

When you gain an understanding of your psychological needs, you invest your energy in places where it matters the most. Self-care also means protecting your energy and taking regular breaks to restore life balance – it helps you re-focus. In addition, it activates the parasympathetic mode. The ‘rest=restore’ mode helps your body calm down and relax.

IMPROVES THE FUNCTIONING OF YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Another very important aspect of self-care is eating well.

Fueling your body with healthy and nutritious food and vitamins/supplements helps you strengthen your immune system. This keeps the occurrence of dangerous infections and diseases at bay.

IMPROVES SELF-ESTEEM

Self-care helps you to build feelings of self-compassion that ultimately improve your self-esteem. You are deserving of love and care. When we begin to understand ourselves, we gain a better perception of life. Mindful practices such as journaling and brain dump can help you to understand your emotions.

HELPS YOU TO BUILD HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

As we mentioned before, when you are happy and fulfilled from the inside – you radiate positivity on the outside. Taking care of yourself helps you build healthy relationships. Setting up social boundaries enables you to keep your sanity, and be fully present and there for your loved ones without draining your energy.

ENABLES YOU TO AMELIORATE YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

Self-care activities such as yoga and meditation help in building a deep connection between mind, body, and soul. When you engage daily in such a session, you can feel an overall sense of improvement in your physical and mental health. Having a regular self-care regimen can help you build strength and resilience. In addition to this, it also boosts your self-confidence which is ultimately linked with feelings of worthiness.

We hope that now, you understand why self-care is important. To help you on this journey, we offer numerous yoga and anxiety relief retreats, courses, and experiences that can assist you with developing and sustaining a self-care regimen. Let us become a part of your new chapter and help you improve your physical and mental health.

If you are looking to improve your overall well-being and are looking for some amazing self-care tips, this is the right place for you! Incorporating these tips into your daily routine will transform your life. Taking care of yourself contributes to your general health and helps you improve the overall quality of your life. It also enables you to nourish your mind and body.

When it comes to your physical health, self-care will help you maintain your weight and ameliorate your self-confidence. Similarly, taking care of your mental health will help you manage stress very well. In short, it is all about doing things that make you happy and make you feel like your true self. That being said, building a regular self-care regimen will have drastic positive effects on your physical and mental health.

We have rounded up the 10 best ways that will help you take better care of yourself. Have a look:

1.     INCORPORATE YOGA AND MEDITATION INTO YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

Doing a 45-minute physical workout can help you to build muscle strength and improve flexibility. Yoga and meditation are considered THE BEST self-care rituals. Why? Because they are involved in improving physical as well as mental health. The breathing techniques and asanas involved in the sessions will not only improve your general well-being but also bring a sense of serenity, balance, and positivity.

Yoga is a form of physical exercise that builds a deep connection between mind, body, and soul. The deep breaths and mindfulness associated with meditation help with stress relief. Similarly, the yoga breathing techniques enable you to relax. In addition to having tremendous mental health benefits, yoga also has physical benefits such as;

• Helps in building muscle strength
• Strengthens the immune system
• Helps reduce inflammation
• Improves cardiac health
• Boosts energy levels
• Improves gut health and digestive system
• Promotes better posture
• Improves brain functioning and helps you to concentrate better

We offer several retreat and wellness programs that can help you to understand the essence of yoga and practice this mindful exercise daily to improve your well-being.

2.     EAT HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD

We LOVE this self-care tip!                                                                                  

Always try to eat healthy and nutritious food. Fuel your body by eating a delicious yet balanced diet. Consume lots of vegetables, fruits, and fresh smoothies. They are jam-packed with fibers, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for the proper functioning of your body. At the same time, limit the intake of junk food. Incorporate this tip to boost your energy levels and improve the overall quality of your life.

3.     PRACTICE GOOD PERSONAL HYGIENE

Practicing good personal hygiene and taking care of your body is the best way to prevent harmful diseases and infections. Brush your teeth twice a day, wash your hands, wash your face with a mild cleanser, and apply face masks once a week depending on your skin type. Shower daily with a good fragrance-free antibacterial showering gel. Keeping your body clean will stop the spread of germs.

Good hygiene also contributes to healthy and glowing skin.

4.     CONSIDER DOING JOURNALING

Journaling is psychologically proven to improve your mental well-being. You can do this to keep track of your emotions, or you can also use it to achieve your daily goals by making a to-do list. It also helps in reducing stress, fatigue, and anxiety. Journaling is a therapeutic activity and it doesn’t take a lot of your time!

5.     DEDICATE SOME TIME TO DOING THINGS THAT YOU ENJOY

Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, dedicate some time to doing things that ACTUALLY bring you joy. This can be doing a hobby that you love – painting, reading, writing, cycling, or watching your favorite Netflix show. Try to take some time out every day to do things that bring you peace and help you relax. You can also check out wellness retreats and relaxing activities.

6.     DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

This self-care tip is quite obvious but please drink plenty of water for your body’s sake. Dehydration leads to headaches, dizziness, and frustration. It damages brain functioning. Drink at least 8 to 10 glasses per day to improve your physical health. Limit the intake of caffeinated beverages, carbonated drinks, and alcohol to improve your liver health.

7.     PRACTICE SELF-LOVE AND SELF-COMPASSION

Please be kind and gentle with yourself. Practice positive self-talk to boost your confidence. The best thing that you can do for yourself is to accept and love yourself.  Practice positive affirmations to manifest good things in your life.

8.     TAKE A RELAXING BATH

Is there anything that a warm bath cannot fix?

This is an amazing self-care tip. Taking a relaxing bath calms your nerves, reduces muscular inflammation, and improves your mental health. In addition, it can elevate your mood instantly.

Taking a hot bath before bed will also help you sleep better. Schedule regular days where you take a long, warm, and relaxing bath.

9.     PRACTICE GRATITUDE AND TRY TO FOCUS ON POSITIVE ASPECTS OF YOUR LIFE

When you focus on the positive aspects of your life, your blessings grow. Dedicate 10-15 minutes every day to practice gratitude. You will be amazed how this simple self-care tip will improve your overall health. Think about the things and blessings that you are grateful for, and write them down daily. Focus on positive aspects of your life and block out negativity.

10. PRIORITIZE YOUR SLEEP

This is the most important self-care tip!

Make your sleep a priority. Try to follow your sleep schedule daily. Why? Because this will help you become more active and attentive the next day. Getting optimal sleep of at least 7-9 hours helps your body restore its energy, improves the functioning of your brain, and boosts your concentration levels.

We truly hope that the above self-care tips will prove to be helpful to you. Practicing these simple rituals will result in a positive life change. We also offer amazing yoga & wellness retreats that will help you in your self-care journey. If you are interested in transforming your life and improving overall wellness, we invite you to check out our yoga & wellness retreats!

Do you consistently feel sad and empty inside? Or maybe you feel a lack of energy or lack of motivation in pursuing daily activities?

Is your mind always racing with thoughts of 'what ifs'..? Do you live in a constant state of fear and worry? Or do you imagine the worst-case scenario in every situation, even if there isn't any?

People with depression and anxiety often experience these symptoms. The terms overlap, but there are significant differences between the two. Depression vs. anxiety? What exactly do you have, and what can you do about it? 

This blog post will help you understand all the essential differences between the two terms. In addition, we have also curated a list of natural solutions that can provide you relief and help you become a better person – both mentally and physically.

These are both major mental illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide. But the good part is that both of these conditions are treatable. Recognizing your emotions is the first step toward a better life. You can suffer from one or the other. And sometimes you can have both. But it is important to recognize what you are feeling. Only then will you be able to find a suitable solution that could help you to cope with depression vs. anxiety.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

Both depression and anxiety are classified as mood disorders. While the former causes constant feelings of sadness, emptiness, and lack of motivation, the latter often induces feelings of constant fear, worry, tiredness, fatigue, and trembling. Anxiety also includes obsessively analyzing and worrying about different situations, and you might feel trouble focusing on trivial tasks or agitation.The physical manifestations of these conditions are usually exhibited in the form of:

•        Sleeping difficulties
•        Tiredness
•        Fatigue
•        Change of appetite
•        Body aches without any apparent reason
•        Elevated heart rate
•        Dizziness and sweating

DEPRESSION VS. ANXIETY

Your mental health deserves the same love and care as your physical health. So, to transform your life for the better, you must understand the clinical symptoms of two terms. Both conditions can exist separately or simultaneously. But recognizing them will help you to treat them better.

WHAT IS DEPRESSION?

Depression is a serious mental condition that adversely affects your life. It causes constant feelings of sadness and lack of motivation. You begin to lose interest in activities that you once enjoyed, and you feel tired and fatigued all the time.

If left untreated, these symptoms worsen over time and start to negatively affect your relationships and work life. In addition to this, people suffering from depression also develop irritability and rage attacks. They feel hopeless and become more prone to developing anxiety. Some other features of this illness include; back pains, body aches, feelings of worthlessness, frequent headaches, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating. Moreover, major depressive disorder is an extreme condition where the person may experience thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

Fortunately, depression is treatable, and you can eradicate it from your life by opting for the right treatment plan. Please remember that you are not alone in this. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, it can be treated without difficulty.

WHAT IS ANXIETY?

Anxious distress often exhibits itself in the form of restlessness, constant worry, fatigue, muscle tensions, sleep disturbances, or excessive shaking and trembling.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO GET RELIEF FROM DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY?

Please know that depression and anxiety are treatable mood disorders, and you don’t have to live with these mental conditions forever. These natural ways will help you beat your mental illness so you can live a healthy and meaningful life.

GET INTO A ROUTINE

We understand that the lack of motivation and tiredness associated with mood disorders can affect your daily routine. Form gentle habits that you can do daily. And don’t be so hard on yourself. Setting up an easy schedule will help you to get back on track.

INCORPORATE PHYSICAL EXERCISE INTO YOUR ROUTINE

We cannot emphasize this enough! Please include physical exercises in your daily routine, and it can be yoga, a walk around the block, or even joining a gym.

Physical exercise is directly associated with the release of endorphins; these hormones improve your general well-being and help reduce feelings of depression vs. anxiety. Moreover, endorphins are also involved in stabilizing mood and improving self-esteem. The best way to release endorphins in your body naturally is through exercise.

Instead of curling on your bed or sleeping the entire day off, we suggest you push yourself a little and opt for any workout. Moving your body will also boost your energy levels and give you a sense of achievement.  

ACCEPT YOURSELF FULLY AND WHOLEHEARTEDLY

Depression can make you feel hopeless, whereas anxiety can make you excessively worry about situations. Both of these conditions are not good for your mental health. There will be days when you will be too tired to do anything, or you might experience negative thoughts. On days like this, it is important that you take a break to rest and recharge.

Try to recognize your emotions and be open and accepting of your sentiments.

CONSIDER JOINING OUR ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION RELIEF RETREATS

We offer relief retreats where you can beat these disorders through a combination of yoga and breathing techniques. So, if you are looking for the best natural way to eradicate these illnesses from your life, joining our relief retreat is the right option for you. Yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques will transform your life forever, and they are scientifically backed up to improve physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

People who are suffering from mental illnesses often face sleep disturbances, and not getting optimal sleep affects your activity. We recommend you try to form a relaxing sleeping routine, as this will trick your brain into sleeping on time.

We hope the above article on depression vs anxiety proves to be helpful for you in identifying what you are going through right now. We can also help you beat these conditions. Our anxiety and depression relief retreats and courses are specifically designed for people like you who are looking forward to improving their physical and emotional well-being.

Do you feel anxious and worried all the time? Are you looking for breathwork to help calm your anxiety and soothe your nerves? Do you feel extremely fearful of the situation? 

Anxiety is often defined as the sentiments of fear, fright, trepidation, dread, and uneasiness. It is a typical reaction to stress or strenuous situation, which might cause excessive sweating, feelings of restlessness, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, trembling, and breathing rapidly. For example, a person might feel worried when faced with a complicated problem at work, or before making an important choice or decision. In such cases, anxiety may arise.

The good news is that relaxing or breathing techniques often help the anxious person feel better. Plus, if you feel breathless due to worry, practicing these anxiety breathing exercises daily will help you to mitigate the symptoms. 

WHAT IS MEANT BY ANXIETY BREATHING TECHNIQUE? 

The anxiety breathing technique is defined as a workout that is intended to encourage and promote efficient, fit, and healthy breathing. In addition to this, it also results in effectual breath control. In essence, breathing exercises are one of the most vital and important parts of Yoga. 

The main aim of Yoga is to form a connection between mind, body, and soul. And breathing techniques prove to be very helpful in improving the pulmonary status of a person and also boost the overall endurance of an individual.

BREATHING TECHNIQUES AND ANXIETY

These techniques are very helpful in reducing anxiety. Deep breathing and other exercises included in breathing techniques help to mitigate stress. The breathwork signals the nervous system to calm down, and this helps the anxious person to attain relief. 

Anxiety breathing exercises are often accompanied by meditation and yoga. And all of these factors play an important role in soothing the nerves of a worried individual. 

BREATHING EXERCISES HELP IN RELIEVING ANXIETY

Some breathing exercises that help in relieving anxiety are described below.

1. LONG EXHALE BREATHWORK 

Lengthening the duration of exhaling can help you beat anxious feelings. This is because deep breathing is linked to the sympathetic nervous system, and this division controls fight or flight response. It controls and influences our body’s ability to relax. For this breathwork; 

• Take a thorough exhale before taking a big deep breath. First, exhale all the air in your lungs out of your body and then simply let the lungs do their work, i.e., inhaling air.
• Then try to spend more time exhaling than you do inhaling; for instance, if your inhalation is for 4 seconds, exhalation must be for 6 seconds.
• Practice it daily for two to five minutes.

You can practice this technique in any posture that is comfortable for you. 

2. ABDOMEN BREATHING

The diaphragm is the muscle that is present just beneath the lungs. Breathing from here actually lessens the overall work the body needs to do for breathing, thus, saving its overall energy. 

Breathing from the diaphragm can be done by: 

•  Adopting a comfortable position 

For this, lie down on the floor or maybe on the bed. Put pillows beneath your knees and head too. The second position a person could adopt is to sit in a comfortable chair with the neck, head, and shoulders in a relaxed state and bent knees.

• Then, put one hand over your heart in a relaxed position and one under your rib cage.
• Breathe in and breathe out through the nose.
• While inhalation and exhalation, notice your stomach and chest movements. 

3. PRACTICE BELLY BREATHING

• For this anxiety breathing exercise, adopt the position the same as described above.
• Place one hand on your stomach somewhere above the belly button and one hand on the chest.
• Breathe in via nose and have an observation of your stomach rise. Your chest should remain comparatively motionless and still.
• Purse the lips and try exhaling through the mouth. And try to engage your stomach muscles at the end of the breath to push the air out.

Practice it daily, or for efficient results, three or four times a day for up to 10 minutes. If you haven’t been regularly using the diaphragm to breathe, it will make you feel tired, but it gets easier, and you will get used to it if you practice daily.

4. BREATH FOCUS

For reducing anxiety and relieving stress, focused and slowed deep breathing may be an excellent choice. For this technique, you only need to lie down or sit in a contented, comfortable, and quiet location. Then:

• Observe how it feels when you breathe in and out normally. Psychologically examine your body, and we're sure you will notice the tension in your body!
• Take a slow deep breath through your nose.
• Examine your upper body and belly expanding.
• Exhale the air by sitting in a comfortable position
• Do this for several minutes and pay continuous attention to the rise and fall of your stomach. 
• Then, choose a word to focus on, and during the exhale, verbalize that word. Vocalizing words like “Safe” and “Calm” can be highly effective.
• Inhale by taking a deep breath. 
• Imagine that your negative energies and fearful thoughts are carried away from you. 
• Gently bring your attention back to your breath. Start vocalizing your ‘safe’ words again if you get unfocused or distracted.

For better results,  practice this exercise for up to 20 minutes daily.

5. RESONANT BREATHING

Hands down, the best breathwork that helps to reduce anxiety! It is also termed coherent breathing and is very effective in calming you down and bringing you back to a relaxed state. For this exercise:

• Lie down, close your eyes, and relax.
• Close your mouth for almost 6 seconds and breathe gently through your nose.
• Don’t rush to fill the lungs with air.
• Allow your breath to leave the body slowly by exhaling for 6 seconds. Don’t force it to move out.
• Continue this for 10 minutes.
• Take some additional minutes, and during this duration, observe how your body feels.

We hope the above anxiety breathing exercises prove to be helpful in calming your anxious feelings. Did you know we also offer anxiety and depression relief retreats and coursesthat can help you transform your life? We invite you to consider our relief offerings and let us know if you have any questions. 

Hello Moonbeams!!!

And so, it is...Here we are again New Moon Lovers — a roaring lion of a moon on July 28^th (1:55pm EST/ 10:55am PST)! The sign of Leo is the archetype of the leader-the powerful lion, the center of attention standing tall. Its’ very meaning is confidence, creativity and strength…talk about a paradox-Leo’s need to shine his/her light into the world and the dark New Moon. Leo zodiac energy with its vibration of abundance and passion creates the opportunity to focus on our goals. Leo, The King of Hearts, will be calling you to your brightest light, your truest heart, and your highest power. Radical, Radiant, Self-Love!!! So, breathe…inhale courage and exhale fear, all you yogis!

Much of the magick of this moon can be credited to Jupiter, the planet of abundance, that goes retrograde in Aries also on the 28^th.  In unison with the Leo energy, it will guide you to follow your gut and go beyond what you believe possible and move forward in the belief that amazing things are possible. The planets retrograde also brings on the need for self-reflection and some heart felt inner work. With Venus and Black Moon Lilith once again traveling close together the need to embrace the feminine and seek our true self will take over.  The light of the moon is flooding your soul, empowering you to release the past, heal your heart and create your life based on your true authentic self.

Bathing is a blissful way to take care of yourself, create space for self-reflection and increase the sacredness and power of a water ritual. There is something magickal about the symbolism of washing away the old and welcoming the new. Choose your favorite essential oils, crystals and flowers and add to your bath salts. Whether Dead Sea, Himalayan or another blend, salts cleanse and remove negative energy from the body. Light some candles and play some relaxing music. Surrender to the time, sit in the stillness of the new moon and soak in the new energy created.

How will you step into your power in a radiant and powerful way this new moon cycle?

Until next time....... Keep shining

Hello Moonbeams!!!

“When the moon is at it’s peak...Then your heart’s desire seek”

July 13^th (2:38PM ET/11:38AM PT)…is Full Moon time again!!! This Capricorn Super Moon will bring a powerful emotional forcefield around us all...expect so see things get shaken up. Change is in the air as Capricorn also conjuncts Pluto at the same time. Expect a breakdown of the old ways and structures aligning one with new levels of consciousness. The Sea-Goat can climb to the utmost peak as well as move downwards into the deepest depths of the sea. The aim of the Capricorn goat-fish is to search one’s soul and recognize the wisdom you have gained from swimming deep in your own oceans and climbing to the top of your own mountains. Pluto in the mix practically screams that it is time for some shadow work...time to really engage in communication with the shadows we hold inside and evaluate honestly what needs to change or emerge from the shadows. Try engaging in conversation with your deepest self to gain the answers that will enable us to heal and achieve our goals. Lastly, Saturn, the ruler of Capricorn, is safely ensconced in the sign of Aquarius. What does this mean? Aquarius is the sign of the rebel, the sign of revolution, the changemakers who break down the old systems and bring in the new. You can support yourself mentally during this auspicious moon by meditating, yoga, reiki self-healing and working and wearing crystals for grounding and protection.

When the world is nuts, it is time to move with the moon through all Her phases because “the spiral dance of the monthly lunar cycle is where the juice of revolution, transformation and magic lives for us”.

May you know the Beauty and Truth that is Who You Are. May you know the Wisdom within, and always listen to and express the Song of your soul

Sacred Rose

Myths and mysteries, magick, and medicine...with rose all four are quintessentially the same. In alchemy, the rose symbolizes divine or mystical love. At a time when we all need a little more love...allow the sacredness of rose to enter your life.

Historically, the flower itself was a symbol of female sexuality & is associated with Cupid, Eros, Adonis, Aphrodite, Isis, Hathor, & Demeter. And the petals as well as the oil & rosewater were often used in magical rituals to honor these gods & goddesses. But the flower is not the only part used in divination & magic. Rose hips can be strung like beads on a thread and worn as a necklace to attract love. Drinking rosehip tea is thought to increase one's powers of prophecy.

And, ironically, for a flower that is often given as a gift, the most powerful roses are said to be those that have been stolen from another person's garden.

Truth be told, we are kind of obsessed with roses. The most beautiful, sensuous & romantic of flowers, it has inspired poets & artists for centuries not only as the flower of love & beauty, but also one of great power. No flower is more recognizable & no aroma more evocative. And rose oil is known as the "Queen of Essential Oils." Rightly so as she holds the highest spiritual frequency than any other oil on the planet.

As a sacred flower to the Goddess, she is a beautiful ally in love and protection magick, can stimulate sexual desire, enhance beauty, and most importantly can heal suffering and grief surrounding the heart in her warm embrace.

When the heart is fully opened, love flows freely...and that, my dear friends, is the true essence of rose...she so gladly and generously offers herself to heal body, mind, and spirit.

The following yoga sequence will open your awareness of your heart as it reignites your own inner goddess! The ritual of anointing the heart with a drop of sacred rose before you start the sequence will make your practice a deeply spiritual ceremony.

Some Heart Yoga Love

High Lunge~Reverse Warrior~Extended Side Angle~Standing Goddess~ Low Lunge~Sphinx~Locust~Supported Childs Pose