On the Mend

Emerging From the Fog

Gosh, it’s great to be feeling more like myself! While I’m still not 100%, especially in terms of energy levels and lung capacity, I’m thrilled to be teaching again and out having some fun.

I’ve dreamed of taking Javi with us on our bikes. This week, it happened! 

We’re not sure he loves it, but he wasn’t shaking, he seemed to enjoy the wind blowing through his hair, and he’s all about having contact with us. I see more “backpacking” in my future!

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“There's a song that wants to sing itself through us. 
We’ve just got to be available.”
~ Joanna Macy

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Hello, my friends!

Thanks for being here; I truly love this weekly connection. 

On Sunday, my family gathered in celebration for my Dad’s 83rd birthday. We shared food, stories, and laughs. Since my Dad’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis at the end of 2019, I am especially thankful for any and all time I get to spend with him. 

While the disease is taking its toll, my Dad remains alert, physically active, and oh-so-sweet. 

Honestly? His diagnosis was a genuine shock to me. His side of the family has traditionally lived well into their 90s, and beyond (his Mom died when she was 101), with very few health complications. We always joked that my Dad would live to be 108. In truth? Up until very recently he could still out work almost any of us, and he remains in great physical shape.

So, when I read this quotation from a new study about yoga and brain health, I definitely tuned in:

“Before I started doing these studies, the usual perception of yoga 
was that it’s good for stress reduction. 
Nobody thought of yoga as being a brain-fitness exercise
that could lead to better plasticity,” 
~  Dr. Helen Lavretsky.

I couldn’t wait to read more, and the opening sentence had me hooked:

“Women at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease can boost their brainpower, enhance brain neuroplasticity and improve their sense of memory function by practicing yoga and meditation, according to a new study by researchers at the Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior”

As I continued reading, I was SO excited to learn that the study was done using a specific meditation, called Kirtan Kriya, that I already know and have practiced a lot! Even better? It’s simple. Anyone can do it. And it only takes about 12 minutes a day! 

If this particular meditation is not your thing, no worries! 
Dr. Lavertsky outlines a variety of mind-body practices that can be beneficial. 

Yep, this is one of the MANY reasons I love being a student of yoga in modern times. The data and the science that’s furthering our understanding of the power of these practices? Incredible! 

Here’s to continuing to live well, the best we can, for as long as we can. 

Peace and love,
m

P.S. Yacht Club Yogis, it’s the magic moment you’ve been waiting for! 
🎉🎉🎉THIS WEEK SATURDAY we switch to 9:00 class 🎉🎉🎉
That means you can sleep in a little longer, navigate the construction, and STILL make it on time! 😉 Join me. ♥️