Monday, October 25, 2010

Kripalu and Seane Corn

Life just keeps getting better and better. After a surprising and amazing evening on Thursday, I packed my bags and drove the two hours to Kripalu surrounded by the most gorgeous foliage ever. Fall has always been my favorite season, so to have such a perfect day and gorgeous foliage seeing me off on this endeavor, I knew that it had to be indicative of what was awaiting me in the Berkshires. Just as the sun was beginning to retire for the day, we drove through the quaint town of Lenox and were soon greeted by the ruins of an old mansion (the history of Kripalu is a story in and of itself!) and a long curvy drive opening up into sprawling lawns.




While we were there for Seane Corn's Empower Flow weekend, Kripalu offers an overwhelming amount of activities for everyone. Upon check-in, I was reminded of a cross between summer camp (well, what I imagine summer camp to be like!) and orientation weekend at college. We checked in and met with our personal "let me show you around" Kripalu representative. Our first stop: the giant wall of daily activities, which included schedules for each of the numerous programs taking place that weekend as well as daily yoga classes (Kripalu style, offered in gentle, moderate, and vigorous) and nightly events. We all agreed that it would be JUST as amazing to go for a "retreat and renewal" weekend, where you have no scheduled programs but can rather decide moment to moment how you wish to spend your days. Oh, and the "Healing Arts" (helllloooooo massage!) center was less than a jump away from the activity wall. There's also a "Sanctuary" room overlooking Lake Mahkeenac, a meditation room, a jacuzzi, and sauna just to name a few of the attractions. Because our days were so full already we really didn't even have a chance to fully enjoy much of which Kripalu has to offer! Of course, we gleefully experienced the Kripalu kitchen (over and over and over and over...), which is a vegetarian's DREAM. Yes, there is even a little something for you meat-etarians, so you will love it too!

In between program sessions (one Friday evening, two Saturday, and one Sunday) and between meals, we explored the grounds, frolicked through the leaves, and "hiked" through the woods by the Lake. The views were breathtaking and the foliage could not have been more perfect. And of COURSE we had a little fun along the way!







Seane was more amazing and inspiring than words can describe. She speaks from her heart and her soul and at one point I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. Yoga inspires me every single day, but she took my love and my passion and yearning for more to a new level. Her messages were clear, strong, and powerful and her flow was appropriate for everyone in the room. She is truly magical and I cannot wait for another opportunity to train with her!



Overall, this week has been unbelievably humbling, inspiring, moving and rejuvenating and has left me spinning in the sensation that I am EXACTLY where I am supposed to be. An undeniable reminder to remain open to all of life's experiences and to trust that when we are truly open to these experiences and where they may take us, we will be led in the direction that is meant for us at the time.

Om Shanti.

Friday, October 22, 2010

From Salutations and Salsa to Salutations and SURPRISES

If you told me two years ago that I would someday TEACH a yoga class with Lorraine, my amazing and inspiring and transformative teacher, I would have laughed at the thought of (a) teaching (what?!) and (b) teaching with my teacher (you've got to be kidding me!!). However, last night, this incredible event came true... and SO MUCH MORE. I can't begin to adequately describe how it felt to be present in that classroom during those 90 minutes... the energy was unbelievable, the playlist was perfect, the whole atmosphere felt electric! I couldn't stop smiling throughout the entire class, every once in a while hearing that little voice in my head scream with excitement "how in the WORLD did I get here?!" Two years ago, when I was worried about my law career and consumed with planning everything, I would never have guessed that I'd find myself on this incredible journey. I would never in a gazillion years imagine that the amazing women from Lululemon would arrange an entire night in order to surprise me with the honor of becoming an ambassador! I cannot put down in words how truly truly blessed I feel to have found this path in my life, and to be supported and encouraged and taught by so many AMAZING people, friends, peers, and teachers. I LOVE YOU ALL SO DEARLY. Ok, off to Kripalu for a weekend of yoga and bliss! Stay tuned!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Big Apology to my faithful and awesomel Latitude students!!

I told you tonight that I'd updated my calendar... but of course you were RIGHT and I wrong! I actually updated the wrong one! So sorry! It's up to date now and I PROMISE to keep the right one updated from now on! And while I'm on the subject, I want to let you all know how much you mean to me and how much I am amazed and inspired by your dedication and willingness to stay calm and focused, work with breath, and remain open to new challenges. Sending so much love to all of you! THANK YOU!!