A Yogi Grows In Brooklyn/Stefanie Joshua Yoga

thoughts & offerings

March 21, 2014

Kapha Season

Kapha is one of the three doshas of the ancient science of ayurveda. Kapha represents the transition from winter to spring. When kapha is out of balance, you make feel lethargic, tired, heavy and unmotivated.

When thinking about how to assist with your personal transition from a winter to spring routine, numerous variables can be at play (lack of morning light- daylight savings time, temperatures that are still cool, holding onto a heavier winter diet.) As you transition in the season, you may consider integrating lighter meals into your routine (fruits, veggies, water) and take advantage of the additional light in the evening hours to engage in some physical activity that helps you to feel energized.

Shanti!

March 7, 2014

Compass Pose

Parivrtta Surya Yantrasana or compass pose is a complex posture that involves a deep stretch of the hamstrings and hip-flexor muscle groups. The pose also requires a considerable amount of lateral flexion of the torso, as the heel extends toward the ceiling and deepens the twist of the spine.

Compass pose can be modified by using a strap or belt around the foot, instead of placing the hand at the foot. The practitioner can also build up to this stretch by keeping the knee of the bound/strapped leg bent, and only lengthening the knee according to the comfort of the individual.

Be sure that the body is adequately warmed up as you exhale and allow your body to glide into the direction of your compass pose.

Shanti!

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February 21, 2014

Vegan Collard Greens

Collard greens have always been one of my favorite foods. My parents have a lineage that dates back to the American south, and southern-style collard greens are a staple. One of my favorite past-times is consulting with my mom to convert some of her recipes to vegetarian options. Often times southern-style collard greens are seasoned with meat. This vegan recipe is not exactly like my mom's original, but I think it's pretty close and plenty yummy.

Vegan Collard Greens Recipe

Ingredients: 3-4 bunches of fresh collard greens, 6 cloves of garlic (minced), 1/3 cup- olive oil, 1/2 cup- apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup- vegetable broth, 1-2 cups of water or as needed, 2 tsp- red pepper flakes, black ground pepper- to taste, salt- to taste (keep it light.)

- Cut collard greens into small strips and rinse under cold water to remove any debris.
-In a large stock pot, add olive oil over medium heat.
-Add garlic and cook for two minutes.
-Add vegetable stock to pot, cook for 1 minute.
-Add greens to the pot and cover.
-Allow to cook down (add more water as needed but greens will reduce down, adding liquid to the pot.) When greens have reduced down to a tender consistency, add apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper to greens. Allow to cook for 1 hour (or more depending on how soft you like your greens.

-Bon apetit!

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February 7, 2014

Ahimsa/LOVE

Ahimsa is a tenet under the "yamas", one of The Eight Limbs of Yoga. Ahimsa translates from sanskrit to english to mean non-violence or non-harm. This term may also be interpreted as the act of loving or spreading love.

February is American Heart Month. During this month (and beyond) practice the act of loving yourself and spreading love. Dedicate time to your wellness, be gentle with your mind and body by listening to both in order to prevent injuries to yourself.

And use this beautifully powerful quote from Osho as a reminder to love yourself.

Om, Shanti, Peace

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