Author: jyll5678

A Spa Review from Prague: ecsotica

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I have fallen in love. I visited Prague for the first time, and she completely captivated me. What an incredibly beautiful city; around every corner, there was something more that took your breath away.  Her beauty is awe-inspiring with every building’s attention to detail and storytelling. Prague is well kept and very clean, and her people are all embracing and kind.

Our visit was on a weekend, and it was extremely busy. Understandable so, with all the tourists wanting to soak her up and see everything she has to offer. My husband and I partook in the sight seeing for sure, but one thing we did was schedule some downtime at ecsotica spa; and let me tell you, it was the best decision made that weekend!

From the moment the Alchymist Hotel (home is ecsotica) came into view, the sense of relaxation eased in. Walking over the threshold into their beautiful courtyard, we knew we were in for a treat. Entering the hotel, we were greeted with welcoming smiles and kind staff who guided us toward the entrance of the spa, which, of course, was below ground. Not to get off topic, but in medieval times, Prague was accepting of the alchymist, and there is a lot of interesting history worth exploring, especially all the ungrounded tunnels and Alchymy labs.  Knowing this is why I chose this spa, instead of the one that was situated right in the hotel we were staying in. I wanted somewhere that embraced this history on some level… and it did not disappoint.

My husband and I walked downstairs to enter a cozy, inviting reception area where Damir warmly greeted and invited us to take a seat and offered a delicious, refreshing, healthy elixir to sip on. We reviewed our bookings, completed a health waiver, and then we were presented a tray with beautiful bottles of oils (very occult-like and fitting). It was a tough decision, but both of us picked the same oil for our 90-minute alchymist massages; ecsotica’s signature treatment combing Balinese, Hawaiian, and Swedish massage techniques.

We were then given a tour of the spa and its amenities, beginning to feel like VIP, as we were the only ones there. After each being led to the locker rooms, to drop our belongings and slip into a robe, our therapists led us through these gorgeous doors over a bride, below us a koi fish pond, and to a couples treatment room, where they had prepared for us a foot soak prior to our massages. That was a nice little surprise.

They gave us a few private moments to enjoy the foot soak and unwind, and then when ready to unrobe and climb onto the tables. Once situated, our therapists quietly entered the room, and our treatments began. Wow!

Now, as you know, I am also a massage therapist, and I have very high standards as to what I expect a great massage to be,  and my therapist, Damir, delivered. I feel his style very much matched mine, and his intention, energy, and techniques quickly had me melting on the table and entering a very healing, relaxing space. I actually didn’t speak a word the entire treatment.  I must comment on his transition from having me turn over from prone to supine.  It was the most smooth, graceful removal of the bolster under my ankles. I felt like he never stopped the massage as he gently removed the bolster. Actually, on that note, it felt like he remained connected, physically in constant contact the entire massage. Which, in my opinion, is also a sign of an expert therapist.  The 90 minutes passed, and it was perfection.

After our massages, we were guided to the resting area where we sipped on another healing elixir and relaxed and enjoyed the amenities. Again, it was still just the two of us, which was beyond lovely to swim and kiss and enjoy each other in the pool under a beautiful crystal chandelier. We leisurely hopped between the pool, the sauna, and the relaxation area.  Once we had our fill we went our separate ways to the men and women locker rooms, where I sat in the steam room for a few minutes,  followed by a cool shower, slowly getting ready to emerge into the sea people exploring the beautiful city of Prague.

Bucket Lists

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One evening on our vacation, the ten of us were relaxing and sipping on our night caps, when we began the discussion of bucket lists. Bucket List by rgaudet17We started sharing what we had on them. Many shared places/destinations that they still want to travel to. Some desires discussed were: to jump out of a plane, drive fancy, fast cars on the Autobahn, and to foster/adopt children, become more philanthropic.  It was a great conversation to have and we learned a lot about each other that night. I went to bed thinking of my bucket list because I really didn’t have much to add that evening. Actually, I’m still continuing to think about it.

Yes, when I was younger I had many, which I have accomplished, such as graduate from college, work in the spa industry, create and sell my own small day spa, travel Europe, live in a big city for a couple of years (I chose Boston).

Now, quite honestly, I don’t have a long list and I truly can only come up with one meaningful one.  Yes, there are still places I will travel to and destinations I still have to see, but as to things that I still must do?  Mine is to continue to, every day, build my relationships: with self, other beings and the world. I cherish my relationships with the people I hold near and dear.  I want to be, in the most sincere form of the word, a true friend: to build deep, complex connections, to continue to grow these relationships as well as to continue to meet new beautiful souls and connect.  I want them to grow by creating deep trust and wonderful memories and really learning the essence of myself and each person, and vibrate at the highest frequencies. And YES, this can be done by taking crazy adventures and traveling to new places and trying new things, which I am completely open to.  Actually, the cool thing about really honing in on this one desire is that in order to do so, I have to continue to explore my internal depths to keep peeling away my own layers and by doing this means to take daring adventures, explore new places and new people and new cultures and new ways of being.  WOW!

On that note, I can expand this thought and perhaps begin to outline what this looks like and add another bucket list item.  I would really like to attend a destination, yoga retreat to do as mentioned above and to explore my spiritual journey on that level.  Granted I love my yoga and spiritual journey that I attend to everyday rather it be on my yoga mat in my zen room, reading a enlightening piece of literature, incorporating yoga philosophy and/or just trying to be a good human being to myself, others, and the earth.

So I’m curious what are some of your deep desires, things to accomplish, places to travel to that are on your bucket list? We are only here for a short period of time, do not wait to tackle your list.  Do it now and enjoy!

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Featured image by rgaudet17. Thank you.

Spa Mirbeau Albany, NY Review

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Thoroughly impressed! Completely Wowed! Extremely Pleased!

Who would have thought a mall could house a 5-star resort quality spa?! Yes. It’s true.
A little hidden gem if you will.
This past week I visited Spa Mirbea Albany, NY, a Day Resort for the second time, which is located in Crossgates Mall. I know, Right?! A spa in the mall, ugh. But let me know tell you, as soon as you step foot into this spa you completely forget you are in a mall. Hell, you completely forget you are in Albany, NY. This spa goes beyond all expectations and offers so much more than just spa services, it’s truly a mini vacation away from reality.
Upon entering you’re greeted with smiles from the staff behind the reception counter as well as calming aromatherapy being diffused into the air. The Spa attendant welcomes you, gives your a lush bathrobe and comfy sandals and then escorts you back into the spacious, aesthetically pleasing locker facilities. She’ll show you how the lockers work and also offer a tour of the facilities if you desire. The facilities have it ALL. Each the men’s and women’s locker areas have several showers, a steam room and a sauna. Then the men’s and women’s locker facilities have a back entrance which brings you to the beautiful co-ed relaxation area with plenty of lounge chaises, a soothing water feature as well as a cozy fire place. It’s dimly lit to help you induce a deep state of relaxation, and help drift you away from all your worries. Off the relaxation room, is the hallway that leads to the treatments room as well as a double door that takes you into a warm, airy, almost tropical location where the hot tub is located, also known as the aqua terrace. Here there are plenty of comfortable seating areas, some of which remind me of a private cabana you can rent out at resort hotels as well as a bar where you can order food and drinks, alcohol included… which makes me happy; I can enjoy the ambiance AND sip on a glass of red wine.
Spa Mirbeau also has a french inspried bistro and wine bar, which I did not include in this past visit, but my first time visiting, in May 2018 with 4 other girlfriends, we did enjoy a light lunch and some delicious cocktails in the bistro.  They also have a spa boutique and fitness center with state of the art equipment and offer fitness classes, which I have not yet checked out.

This past visit I was with my close friend, Elicia and we each had massages scheduled. We met at the spa about an hour before our scheduled appointments to enjoy the facilities. We both packed our bathing suits as we were very much looking forward to soaking in the hot tub. After we arrived and checked in and had our bathing suits on, we first decided to enjoy the sauna. After about 10 minutes we decided it was time to hop into the steam room, my favorite. I just love the steam room and they definitely were infusing the steam room with eucalyptus as well, it smelt amazing and I felt it tingle on my upper lip. After the steam room, when we couldn’t take it much longer, we headed back to the Aqua Terrace only to be disappointed that the hot tub was out of commission. We were bummed, but no worries, we poured our selves some cucumber water and curled up on the chaise lounges in the relaxation room and softly chatted among ourselves.

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Elicia and myself in the relaxation room at Spa Mirbeau Albany

Us two girls, always have so much to catch up on. Our time went by perfectly. Though we were only enjoying the facilities for about an hour, it truly felt like we had been there all afternoon.  At 6 pm, a therapist came into the relaxation room and called my name for my massage. Elicia said, “I was so relaxed I forgot we were even having massages!” We hugged each other goodbye, since I was not going to see her after my massage. My friend, was receiving a 50 minute signature massage then venturing home, and I had signed up for a 100 minute massage.

The treatment rooms are so inviting, each having a cozy fireplace. My massage therapist was AMAZING. I was extremely happy about that, being my last massage, two months prior, was terrible. My therapist took my lead on the amount of conversation. Which I like to chat in the beginning, but then I like to be fully present in my massage and not talk too much. She was fantastic. She definitely had great pressure behind her deep work and nice connecting strokes where my body felt integrated and treated as a whole.  She addressed all my concerns that we discussed prior to beginning the massage plus some.
After my massage I mentioned to my therapist, I was going to venture back the aqua terrace to enjoy a glass of red wine after I used the ladies room. My therapist asked me what was my favorite red wine, which I replied malbec. When I arrived back into the aqua terrace, my glass of wine was waiting for me. I took my glass to a corner on the couch and curled up and sipped on my glass of delicious Argentinean malbec. I was so bliss-ed out. My massage was exactly what my body was earning for and now as I sit there reaping the amazing benefit of the deep work she did and enjoying my wine… I was in heaven.
While I was only inside the spa itself for three and a half hours I felt like I had a mini vacation, feeling completely rejuvenated. I can NOT wait to go back. Which I must add, will be soon, because upon check out I was given a free day pass to come back to enjoy the facilities at any time I chose due to the hot tub being down.  In my opinion I think this is a wonderful gesture.  First, they recognize that we were not able to enjoy all of their amenities that are included in the price you pay for treatments and second a great way of pulling you back in to their spa, which is where you want to be.
If you haven’t already gathered, I highly recommend visiting Spa Mirbeau Albany.  Perhaps I shall see you there soon.  I’m already daydreaming about my next visit.
Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Cleaning, Packing & Saucha

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You know what I really love? VACATION!!!You know what I love on top of that? After having an amazing vacation, coming home to a clean house! There is something very gratifying about walking into a clean home, after a long day of traveling. The last thing I want to see is a mess. My husband and I have a 19 day vacation coming up next week. Therefore, I have dedicated this weekend to spring cleaning.While I would love to hire a cleaning service (maybe one day), I do take pride in keeping a clean, organized home. There is something therapeutic in deep cleaning your home. Well, at least to me. Perhaps, many would not agree with me.But I believe that a clean and clutter free home, leads to a peaceful, calm and clutter-free mind! Which on that note, I’m taking this opportunity to connect my spring cleaning to a yoga principal for you. See, you can practice yoga every day in some way!If you have been practicing yoga for a while you may be familiar with Pantajali’s Eight Limbs of Yoga, with the first two limbs being yamas and niyamas each containing 5 tenants of moral codes and restraints. The first tenant of the niyamas (the restraints: on how we treat ourselves and how to turn inwardly) is saucha, purity/cleanliness. While ancient yogis had, what I would call, some crazy ways to actually inwardly clean themselves, some that may actually churn your stomach; they also focused on purity of thoughts, tongue, diet and actions.Today, I’m applying saucha more lightly and on more of a superficial level. Purifying comes from an inwardly, disciplined practice while cleanliness is more external, both of which are connected. Applying saucha to our environment is just as important as purifying our mind, spirit and bodies. Our mind is a mirror of our environment. If our home is messy and we are surrounded by possessions we have hoarded over the years, our mind also is cluttered and distracted and may feel like you can’t find space to breathe, and you may actually feel scattered brained.I truly feel that having a clean, clutter free home is a sign of respect toward yourself, your loved ones and your yoga practice. A clean, organized home induces a relaxed mind and I believe even can ward off depression. Happy Cleaning! I know this post, may contradict a previous post of mine, but also part of practicing yoga is being in the moment and accepting what is and being purely present is each moment. Sometimes, our lives are busy and can get a little chaotic… and that is ok too. But sometimes, we set aside time to take a breath and organize ourselves. It’s truly about balance and being kind to yourself. Ahhhh, a yama, ahimsa. Ahimsa is practicing nonviolence. Not only being kind and not harming mother earth and other beings, but also not harming ourselves; our moments and our own thought processes. But I guess that can be another post.I know this post, may contradict a previous post of mine, but also part of practicing yoga is being in the moment and accepting what is and being purely present is each moment. Sometimes, our lives are busy and can get a little chaotic… and that is ok too. But sometimes, we set aside time to take a breath and organize ourselves. It’s truly about balance and being kind to yourself. Ahh, another yama, ahimsa. Ahimsa is practicing non violence. Not only being kind and not harming mother earth and other beings, but also not harming ourselves; our moments and our own thought processes. But I guess that can be another post.On another note, you know what I absolutely do not like doing? It kind of stresses me out. Packing! Fortunately my husband excels at that. It’s actually a win, win. For instance when we go up to camp, he’ll take the time before our weekend, to pack up everything up so nicely and he never forgets anything. Me? I’ll forget miscellaneous items, like, d’oh, my tooth brush. Like I said, packing stresses me out. After our time at camp, we’ll come home and he will unwind and catch up on emails and news while I unpack everything, clean and do the laundry. This seems to works for us!However, after my cleaning is done, I’m going to be kind to myself this weekend, and take my time and methodically pack my own suitcase. Then my husband will go through our checklist with me to make sure I have everything. I’ll have to let you know how I do.Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Gideon Putnam: Roosevelt Baths & Spa Saratoga Springs, NY

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I have been hesitant to write up my review of my last spa visit, because I really was not impressed.

For her birthday, my girlfriend requested a spa day with three of her close girlfriends. The spa she requested was fully booked the day she wanted to celebrate. After a couple phone calls to try to find a spa to accommodate 4 massages on a Saturday afternoon with short notice, I was able to book us all the same time slot at The historic Roosevelt baths & Spa in Saratoga Springs, NY.

I have been there once before, like seven years ago, and I remember not being impressed then; but trying to meet the birthday girl’s request, it’s what was available. All of us ladies met there and checked in together. While the entrance is fairly aesthetically pleasing, I was not impressed with check in. It was not streamlined well and felt a bit chaotic with the amount of guests standing in the entrance way and around the front desk.

All of us ladies met there and checked in together. While the entrance is fairly aesthetically pleasing, I was not impressed with check in. It was not streamlined well and felt a bit chaotic with the amount of guests standing in the entrance way and around the front desk.

After we all checked in, we were then led halfway to the entrance of the ladies locker facility, not guided all the way in and not shown how to operate the lockers or any other detail. Exceptional spa customer service would have done so. But in reality, it makes since, because the ladies locker area is super tiny. Getting undressed and ready for your treatment(s) when there are other ladies in there as well, is not so relaxing; it is extremely tight and you are constantly bumping into other spa guests.

Once we had our robes on we headed to the relaxation room to sip on some tea and relax a bit. The room itself was nice enough and they have a beautiful wall water fountain. They had hot and cold water, a variety of tea to choose from, as well as fresh fruit.

One of the girls and I decided to venture over to the steam room. Now, this was the highlight of my entire experience. Their steam room is fantastic. It’s actually kept very hot and steamy. I’m so unimpressed when you go into a steam room and you have to wait for it to actually get steamy. This one was optimally operating the way it should; with proper temperature right up around 110-115 and the humidity level at about 100%. There was also a spray bottle of eucalyptus water which I always love that added benefit. This made me happy.

After 15 minutes in the steam room we headed back to the relaxation room. We sipped on tea and quietly chatted among ourselves as our therapists came in to retrieve us for our massages. I was the last to be picked up by my therapist and she walked us down to treatment room. Walking down the long hallway is so stark lined with many doors that were closed. Which to note, this spa has 42 treatments rooms! That’s a lot.

Once in the room, my therapist instructed me to get on the table and she would be back in a moment. She knocked on the door quite quickly after leaving me and I was not ready. I asked for just one more moment. I climbed on table took a few deep breaths, I was so happy to be on that table and looking forward to my massage. I spoke out loud that I was ready, and nothing. I lied there for another few minutes and nothing. I was just about to get off the table grab my robe and go look for my therapist… NOT IMPRESSED. I was a little frustrated that she was taking so long. As I was about to climb off the table she knocked asking if I was ready. I said yes… but I was very disgruntled that my massage had not even started yet!

I am highly disappointment to report… my massage was awful. There was no flow to her massage sequence. It was very choppy and she was all over the place. I felt she segmented my body, there was no contiguous flow and the feeling of my entire body being massaged. It felt very compartmentalized. As she was massaging, I was thinking, “Who the hell hired you? You are awful!” Granted touch is touch and my body was craving it, as I was long overdue for a massage. And that is what is so disappointing: you spend over $135 for a 60 minute massage only to have it be a terrible. Very upsetting.

Now, I’m not one to complain, because, well, two reasons. The therapist is doing her job and working and there is someone that might, possibly like her massage; there’s a therapist for everyone.

Us four girls met back in the relaxation room. I am very happy to report my three girlfriends all LOVED their massages. They were all very happy and relaxed and talked highly of their therapists. That made me happy. As we were relaxing and quietly chatting… it was actually getting hard to hear each other, because the relaxation room, became more of a social gathering. Some of the the little cliques, were not using spa voices. We were going to relax a while longer and maybe nap on the lounges prior to our dinner reservations, but we decided if it was going to be this loud, we wouldn’t be able to enjoy. So we headed back to the women’s locker facility, played pinball with our bodies as we got dress and ready to go out to dinner.

I would like to end on a positive note. This spa is a historic landmark of the healing history of Saratoga Springs, NY. It is very well known for its mineral waters. The Roosevelt Baths & Spa was established back in 1935 with President Franklin Roosevelt’s visionary act to preserve the springs of Saratoga. The mineral water is captured cold from the underground springs that are located throughout the city, then mixed with warm fresh water to a neutral temperature for maximum, healing benefits.

I guess, I will have to go back to experience what they are most famous for, and soak in a glorious mineral bath and experience for myself “Saratoga’s signature brand of aquatic bliss.” Perhaps, my opinion will change.

Zenfully yours,

Jyll

There’ll be time…

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A clean and organized home makes me very happy and gives me a sense of accomplishment. However, sometimes life is super busy and picking up and organizing can take a back seat.

Sometimes, my scheduled is very packed: between getting up early to squeeze a solid workout in before work, changing clothes to go to work all day, changing clothes to then attend a network function, then home again to only have to run out for another event/or hosting. With the whirlwind of go, go, go sometimes life gets a little cluttered (on many levels).

Photo Credit: Pixabay, Geralt
Photo Credit: Pixabay, Geralt

For my yoga practice, I love to practice in a clean, simple space with no clutter, usually in what I like to call my ‘Zen Room’. There was a time not that many years ago, if my days led to chaos and a mess, I wouldn’t be able to practice until my space was completely cleaned and everything put away. Sometimes, cleaning and picking up would take so much time that my yoga practice would suffer and I would only have a few moments to do yoga, if at all. Which I do not like to cut my practice, for it’s the one thing that keeps me sane and balanced.

Now, I’m not here to give organization tips or quick tips to stay on top of staying neat and tidy, there are plenty of people and websites offering that. I’m just here to share that it’s ok to step back from the mundane and the constant effort to keep things perfect. It’s much more important to spend your time on the things that make you happy. And for me, one thing that makes me happy is my yoga practice. I no longer need a perfect space to practice in. Sometimes I roll out my mat in the midst of a mess and move, breathe and be…. And that just makes me feel peaceful and happy and balanced.

There will be time to pick up and clean later. … then to practice in that space makes will make me even happier. OM!

I truly believe the most precious gift you can give yourself and to others is the gift of time. Choose to spend your time doing what you love and/or with the people you love.

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Mantras and Mala Beads

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A whole new dimension to my meditation practice!

I’m very excited about my new mala beads. I have been trying to be better with my meditation practice and dedicating more time to meditating and I decided it was time to invest in mala beads. Wow, there are a lot of choices out there, but I’m a firm believer to go with your gut reaction and what your heart is drawn to first. So upon searching for my own mala beads, this was the first one I saw and loved. I continued to browse for quite some time… but I came back to these. When I opened the package, I couldn’t have been more happy with my choice.

They came in the mail, and I wasn’t home that day and was meeting my husband out for dinner. He brought the package with him to give to me. Granted, he had no idea what my package contained. I opened it over dinner, and I was in love. I told him, “I can’t wait to go home and meditate.” Really!?! Did I just say that? Yes, I did.

I have had several meditations sessions now with my new beads, and wow! First, I can sit much longer than before and completely be immersed in my meditation and not even realize how much time is passing by because I am so present in the moment of my meditation. Second, when I close my meditation I have a feeling of lightness and joy.

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Third, I love the fact that not only does it enhance my meditation, I can wear this piece, in fashion, and every time I look at it, I remember my mantra and it induces a calm state in that manner as well.

This past week has been the first time I have ever used mala beads, and from what I have learned, they are generally used with mantras. Mala beads have 108 beads on them and the practitioner uses the beads to keep track of reciting their mantras 108 times. The definition of mantra is (originally in Hinduism and Buddhism) a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation. Today people use that word more freely, meaning that’s it’s more of a person slogan. Why 108 beads and repetition of the mantra you ask? 108 is a sacred number in Hinduism and Buddhism. The mala beads are very similar to the Catholic rosary.

Side note, when I use to practice massage therapy I was trained and offered Thai Yoga Massage to my clients. If this is a new modality to you, it is very similar to Shiatsu, which for some reason, more people know that modality. In Thai Yoga, the practitioner used soft tissue manipulation techniques and assisted yoga postures, breathing and meditation focusing on working the nadis, or energy meridians, of the body to help the body enter a deep state of relaxation. Or as us practitioners like to call it, ‘Lazy Man’s Yoga.’

Nadis travel through our bodies and correspond to organs, chakras and elements of the body. According to the teachings there are over 72,000 nadis. I also remember learning that there are 108 nadis that extend from the the heart alone. In yoga, 108 refers to spiritual completion. Oh, the sacredness of 108. There is so much more on this topic that is quite amazing. If you are intrigued to learn more, I encourage you to do some research. It’s beyond cool!

My New Year’s Word that I am dedicating 2019 to is ‘Connection.’ Not only to connect with many beautiful souls to share our journey but to connect to my soul’s purpose. I found the most perfect mantra I feel resonates with this deeply. What I have chosen to use is ‘Om Gum Shreem Maha Lakshmiyei Namaha.’ Without going into the meaning of each of these Sanskrit words, I translate this loosely as connecting to the universal energy, removing all obstacles that stand in the way, to move into a state of abundance while increasing positive energy to connect to soul’s purpose to it’s greatest means.

What are some of your personal mantras you are currency using? I would love to hear what they are!

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Letting Go and Just Doing It

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Sometimes we don’t even know we are holding ourselves back.

This morning, while not feeling 100%, I decided to climb onto my yoga mat and have a restorative practice followed by some meditation. Sometimes, before I settle into my dyhana practice I like to play with my sacred geometry cards. I like to hold them to my heart and ask to connect to a card that I need most in that moment. I pulled Guilt.

My first reaction was what?! Guilt? That makes no sense. I was a bit disturbed. But none the less, instead of dhyana, I settled into dharana practice, which is focused concentration. Focused concentration on guilt.

Wow! I get it. Guilt does not serve me, nor any one of us.
So this whole blogging thing I started back in September 2018 and trying to be more active on social media to share my passions has been a learning experience for sure! For the past four months I have been talking about going ‘LIVE’ on social media, but I was nervous and felt not ready. And as more and more time passed, I guess I began to feel a little guilty. Guilty that I haven’t been doing what my heart has been telling me to do, which is share my passions and connect to as many beautiful souls as I possibly can.

On the back of my Sacred Geometry Card by Janosh, it reads: “Guilt: When you are in balance with your true self, you will make intuitive decision. And when you act in your own best interest, other people might feel disappointed if they don’t understand you. This can result in guilty feelings. Feeling guilty prevents you from truly surrendering and choosing your own path. The energy of Guilt helps you acknowledge that feeling guilty serves no purpose. Not for you no anyone else.”

So, I’m proud to tell you that after I finished my session I had an ah ha moment, and I did it. I went live on my ‘Jyll’s Zen Lounge’ Facebook page…. and it wasn’t so bad.

Please find and follow my page for more zenful insights.

This also has me thinking of aparigraha, which means, non-grasping and letting go. It’s one of the 5 yamas (moral codes), which is one of the 8 limbs of Patanjali’s Ashtanga Yoga.
I need to let go the fear of putting myself 100% out on social media and being completely in the raw and organic.  How freeing?!

I recently came across this quote that has resonated with me so deeply.

“Aparigraha invites us to let go and to pack lightly for our journey through life all the while caring deeply and enjoying fully.” ~Deborah Adele

What do you need to let go of to travel more lightly and be joyous in life?  I would love to hear your thoughts.

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

To Burn, To Diffuse, To Apply… Oh My!

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I love opening boxes like this!  This makes me happy.

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So many wonderful essential oils so many wonderful things to do with them.

In 1996, I was a senior in high school, when I was given a Christmas gift from a friend of an aroma burner and some essential oils. What can I say? I loved it and have been using essential oils ever since.  Granted, back in 1996 I didn’t know too much then, but over the years I have tried many different things and oils and now I use them quite frequently, and of course I am always learning more.

Funny story.  When my boyfriend (now husband) and I started dating, he was in my kitchen and opened the cabinet and saw all my oils, droppers and bottles… he looked over his shoulder and asked me if I was a witch.  I laughed and replied no.  However, in retrospect, perhaps on some level I am.  I guess it depends on what your definition of a witch is.

While there are many wonderful essentials oils by far, one of my all time favorites is still a very familiar one to many, lavender.  My husband’s favorite is eucalyptus.20181216_0959345395939603890155227.jpg  I take both of our favorites and for the past thirteen years I have been using this combination in a spray bottle (with water) to spritz our sheets each night before bed.  Initially I was doing this because I just enjoyed the smell and it helped ease me into a sound sleep.  Along the way, I have learned that by spraying this in the air, eucalyptus can kill over 70% of airborne staph bacteria and is a expectorant, antimicrobial, antibacterial and lavender has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing effects and is also anti-inflammatory, and is really good for your skin.  A win on so many levels.  Who knew?

 

This time of year, you may hear of people using the essential oil blend called Thieves.

Interesting fact.  “This blend was created from research about a group of 15th-century thieves who rubbed oils on themselves to avoid contracting the plague while they robbed the bodies of the dead and dying.  When apprehended, these thieves disclosed the formula of herbs, spices, and oils they used to protect themselves in exchange for more lenient punishment.  This blend of therapeutic-grade essential oils was tested at Weber State University for its potent antimicrobial properties.  Thieves was found to have a 99.96 percent kill rate against airborne bacteria.  The oils are highly antiviral, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-infectious and help to protect they body against such illnesses flu, colds, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, sore throats, etc.”  This fact was pulled from a great book I have been referencing for years, “Essential Oils Desk Reference Compiled by Essential Science Publishing”.

This blend consists of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus and Rosemary.

Over the past few years, I have seen more and more people using essential oils and companies selling essential oils.  The brand I have grown to love and generally buy all my essential oils from is Aura Cacia (they have many more products than just oils).  I have been extremely happy with this line for many reasons (which could be a blog post in itself).  But first I find their products are of high quality.  Aura Cacia works directly with the farmers and producers of their ingredients.  They are a structured co-op, which I am more than happy to support.  The main umbrella company is Frontier Co-Op.  Therefore all the multiple owners and businesses involved in the co-op work together and agree on how to keep moving forward while creating high quality products and jointly advocate for doing the responsible thing not only for people, but for our planet.  And even more than that, each purchase I make of Aura Cacia products supports organizations that help women transform their lives!  How fantastic is that?!  You can learn more about that through Aura Cacia’s Positive Change Project.

20181215_162920-13302556928514277153.jpgJust wanted to share my passion for essential oils, which is a continually learning process, but the benefits of using them are incredible and extensive.

If this is a new topic for you and you are intrigued to learn more here are few things to know:

  • Essential oils are highly concentrated subtle, volatile liquids (be careful when purchasing, steer clear of synthetic, fragrant oils and purchase 100% pure essential oils (not all oils are created equally).
  • Since they are highly concentrated, to use they must be diluted.
  • Granted there are only a select few that you could use directly on your skin, they should always be diluted down and if you choose to use directly on your skin, patch test first.
  • Be cautious of oils labeled “Clinical Grade” or “Therapeutic Grade.” These terms are not standardized in the industry.  Instead I encourage you to learn the company you choose to buy from.  While there are some very impressive companies creating wonderful products, there are also companies that are all about the ‘marketing’ and push not so high quality.  I encourage you to find a company that is transparent in their production, quality and purity.
  • A great online source for more on aromatherapy and essential oils is aromaweb.

Again, so many wonderful essential oils, so many wonderful things to do with them and so many wonderful health benefits to using them.

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

The Practice of Gratitude

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The act of expressing appreciation for all that is! This time of year, we tend to resonate within the frequency of gratitude as the magic of the holiday season falls upon us. While I think this is absolutely wonderful, I encourage you to practice gratitude every day all year round.

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Many different studies have shown the positive effects are practicing gratitude; such as becoming more patient and accepting, sleeping better, increased happiness, and overall better health and wellness. We all have our unique ways of showing our gratitude and exercising ways of creating greater gratitude in our lives.
Below is a short list of simple ways to express and increase gratitude in your life:

  • Sending a random note of thanks and love that is unexpected
  • Stating 3 good things daily (I love this one! And I absolutely loved seeing this in practice, when my cousin, at the end of each day, asks her two girls to tell her three good things that happened that day. Then they discussed each and talk about it further in detail. For example, she asks them how did that make you feel?).
  • Offering a smile to others
  • Giving hugs (There is nothing better than a welcomed, full, loving embrace. Science even says that if you can hold a hug for at least 6 seconds, it begins to have a positive, chemical effect in our bodies, by increasing the hormone levels of oxytocin, the “feel-good hormone” and lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels, the “stress hormone.” Hugs also increase our social connections and belonging). Hug on folks!2744232_s5640666373340194827.jpg
  • Saying Thank you. So simple, but yet so powerful!

…The list can go on, and while I practice all the above, my favorite is practicing gratitude on my yoga mat.  Besides hugs that is.  I love HUGS.

The energy of Gratitude begins in the heart. One must have an open and receptive heart chakra to allow the energy of gratitude to radiate from. As you become more mindful of expressing gratitude the heart energy will naturally open. The more you begin to practice gratitude and see the silver lining in all situations, the more appreciation and joy will be attracted into your life.
Now, I know we are only human, and as humans, we experience a plethora of emotions, which we are most definitely allowed to feel. We all will have times when we feel sad, angry, frustrated, or overwhelmed, and that is OK! Have your moments, then gather yourself and move back into higher frequency emotions such as joy, gratitude and love. Sometimes making the transition back may be challenging, so an easy way to move back into gratitude is simply repeating to yourself, or out loud, ”Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you…”

I have created a mini yoga session, 13 minutes, for my fellow yogis to practice to help cultivate gratitude.  The yoga practice is a mini series of asanas (poses) and mudras (hand poses or spiritual gestures that have an energetic seal of authenticity between mind, physical body and energy body, facilitating the flow of energy). All asanas and mudras in this mini session are focused on opening the heart energy, and in essence connecting to the energy of gratitude. The series is also written out for you below.  You can also just choose to use the mudras I demonstrate below to help open your heart and cultivate gratitude.  

Namaste my beautiful souls.

Zenfully Yours,
Jyll

Yoga practice for cultivating Gratitude:

Begin is a seated, crossed legged comfortable position, (sukhasana) with the Hridaya (Heart) Mudra: is the index fingers touching at the base of the thumbs where they connect to the hands, resting the middle finger and ring finger gently on the tip of the thumb and the pinky finger extending outward,then rest your hands upon your knees.

This mudra opens the heart meridian which begins in the heart and travels up through the axilla and down the medial side of the arm through the wrist and out the pinky finger. This mudra helps releases any heavy emotions weighing on the heart, releases stress and anxiety, and helps to keep the heart open. Holding this mudra, take a few rounds of even breaths and state the intention: “I intend to to open my heart and to connect and radiate within the energy of Gratitude.”

You can then repeat the mantra, “THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU…”

Then take your hands behind your hips about 6-12″ and lift your hips upward and come onto your knees, opening the heart. Take a few breaths here. Then roll your hips back down and walk your hands out before you to fold forward. Take moment here and have an internal thought of something you are thankful for.

Next come to stand at the top of your mat in Mountain Pose (Tadasana). Standing with an open heart and allowing yourself to be open and receptive, find gratitude for all your inspirations and dreams. Here you can take Padma (Lotus) Mudra while taking a few breaths and connecting to the unlimited possibilities the future holds.  Padma Mudra is taking your hands in prayer pose, then keeping the base of the palms together and the thumbs and pinkys touching, peal the index, middle and ring finger away from each other opening your palms like a blooming lotus.

Next move slowly into low lunge (Anjaneyasana) holding this pose for a few breaths on each side creating stability in your legs and then reach your arms upward and take a slight back bend revealing your heart. Find gratitude for an aspect of your life that you are grateful for.

Next take Exalted warrior (Viparita Virabhadasana) on each side for a few breaths. While holding this pose find gratitude for challenging moments you have encountered and how you evolved from them.

Next take Standing Forward Fold (Uttanasana) and hang out here for a few breaths and feel the sensations of the inversion, and all the fresh oxygen-rich blood moving toward your brain for mental clarity.

Moving down to the ground onto your belly move into Bow Pose (Dhanurasana).  Bend your knees and reach your hands behind your to grab hold of your ankles.  As you being to kick your feet into your hands, you begin to move into a strong back bend.  Let your breath rock you and gently massage your internal organs.  Honor your body here, and learn how to move from the your heart.

Next move slowly into Child’s pose (Balasana).  As you fold forward into yourself take this moment to travel inward and give thanks for being here.  For being present and practicing.  As you feel your breath move effortless in and out express gratitude for your breath, for being alive.

Gently come up and swing your legs out before you into Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana).  Again, a pose that allows your to travel inward.  In this pose honor a part of your body which you are especially grateful for.

Then move into a Supported Reclining Heart Opener (Setu Bandhasana Variation). Taking a yoga block or rolled up towel, place it under your upper back and lay right into it. This is a relaxing chest opener inspiring gratitude allowing the heart chakra to open. Here bring your thoughts to an event or something you witnessed that invoked great feelings of joy and love and gratitude in your heart.

Remove the block and take Corpse Pose (Savasana). Allow yourself to let your body become fully relaxed and melt into gratitude as your tension melts away and you are firmly supported by the earth below you. Have gratitude that the universe will always support you.

Finally move yourself back into an easy seated pose (sukhasana) taking Anjali Mudra, (prayer pose) at the heart, inducing awareness and honoring what is and all that your are.

Namaste.