Cause and effect; feeling depleted

There are times when it seems our bodies are running on empty. We are not sick, nor are we necessarily pushing ourselves to the limit but, the energy we typical enjoy has mysteriously dissipated, leaving only fatigue. Many people grow accustomed to this state and accept it as the norm. The body’s natural state, however, is one of energy, clarity, and balance. Cultivating these virtues so that we can combat feelings of depletion is a matter of developing a refined awareness of the self and making changes based on our observations.

Taking a few moments to examine your schedule, diet, and general health may help you zero in on the factors causing your depletion. If you are struggling to cope with an overfull agenda, prioritization can provide you with more time to sleep or relax.
Switching to a diet containing plenty of nutritious foods may serve to restore your vigor but identifying the source of your exhaustion will occasionally be more complicated than spotting a void in your lifestyle. Matters of the mind and heart can take their toll on your physical self, as can intense emotions such as anger, grief or jealousy. Conversely, a lack of mental and emotional stimulation may leave you feeling listless and lethargic.

Realize that the underlying cause might be more complex than you at first imagined. A harried lifestyle or a diet low in vital nutrients can represent only a part of a larger issue affecting your mood, stamina, and energy levels. When you believe that you are ultimately in control of how you feel, you will be able to transform your day-to-day life so that lasting fatigue can no longer gain a foothold in your existence.

Santa CruzYoga Studio opens

I'm sure you've heard by now that there is a new yoga studio in town. Mark Stephens has opened Santa Cruz Yoga in the Swift St. Courtyard at Kelly's Bakery.
The studio is beautiful and is a place made "by the people for the people." Mark has drawn on the various talents of his students, friends and associates to put together a warm and harmonious place to practice.
Construction is not quite done but, the studio is up and running. He will be adding draperies, additional lighting, cubbies for shoes and belongings and changing rooms in the coming days.
There are 45 classes a week offered and a time to suit almost anyone. For a schedule of classes go to www.santacruzyoga.net.
If you are an early bird or want to practice before work, come practice with me... Mon.- Wed.- Fri. at 7:30 am. Hope to see you there.

I hope that you had a wonderful holiday season and are looking forward to good things in the new year. One way to get off to a good start is to renew your commitment to your practice. Dedicating a particular day that you practice no matter what or, perhaps adding another day of practice to your routine are ways to honor that commitment.
For those of you who already have a regular practice, you might want to explore a pose that you find challenging or even seemingly out of reach for you. Practicing with clear intention and maybe a little guidance from your teacher will certainly help get you started on your way.
Adding meditation to your practice is something to consider as well. There are many techniques you can use and to start out you can just practice sitting still for a few minutes and clear some space in your mind to be present in that stillness. Again ask your teacher for guidance if you need it.