Wolf Moon

Whew! The holidays flew by in a rush. Almost so fast it was hard to enjoy them! I have been making and planning and procrastinating quite a bit lately, but I think I figured out what's going to happen. I'm going to be HAPPY! I know without a doubt what I want out of life, and I almost have a plan figured out how to financially support my dream and keep my family loved and fulfilled.
 Since forever, I've known that I love to help others. Listening, offering guidance, being there for them. My hands sometimes feel as if they are on fire with energy and I just have to touch. I have repaired my own soul through help from others and a lot of hard work on my part. And I know that's what I want to do. I want to help others find themselves. I want to help them heal and mend the broken pieces. I want to offer guidance in growth, both spiritually and physically. Through art, meditation, writing, yoga, and a lot of personal soul searching I feel as if I can help others heal. I'm combining all that i do into a package/service to offer. I've only been offering things locally, but with Skype and via phone, I will now offer to help others anywhere. In the next few weeks I'll be able to cement all of the boring stuff so that I can get down to business.

 I've also been reading cards for others at home. You can go to my facebook page and get a card pulled by commenting on the daily post. Stop by!

Tonight is the first full moon of 2014 and I'll be making smudge sticks for my Etsy shop and sitting with the spirits. There are so many things that you can do during a Full Moon to help your energy. At the full moon the energy builds and builds....there's an explosive outgoing aspect to it. All of nature grows and is more vital at the full Moon. This surge allows you to take action on behalf of any new Moon intentions you set, as well as set new intentions and beginnings. 

• You could use this evenings moon to release any old internal baggage you've been letting weigh you down. Write everything you want to rid yourself of; be it bad habits, or bad relationships, anything that does not lift you up. Find a container ( I use a cast iron pot) and using a candles flame burn all of those slips of paper and watch the smoke disappear, taking with it your anxiety and frustrations that surround the subject.
• Sit in a quiet place and allow yourself to become centered. If you are able, try to get somewhere where the light of the moon can be seen. Imagine that light as a healing light and let it bathe you with it's beauty and power. Strengthening your soul as well as your will. As it washes over you allow your mind to quiet down and accept the purity and cleanliness of it. Feel your soul becoming rooted in love and trust; of yourself, your power, your love. Believe in yourself and allow your body to be healed in the strength of the moon.
• Set an intention, something that you want to accomplish or create in your life. Write it down, or paint it...create something that you can come to and be reminded of what you wanted. Intentions set under a full moon create a powerful wave through the universe, letting all who will listen know that you are ready to accept change. 

I hope this finds you well and helps you through all that you are experiencing. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you ever have questions or comments. You can reach me through facebook, twitter, pinterest, etsy, or through my email-happysappytrees@gmail.com. Namaskar!

Counting Bakasana's

 See this perfectly innocent looking guy? Just chilling, not bothering anyone, maybe waiting patiently on a scarecrow to be distracted so he can swoop in a grab some corn...

 The crow has sight, and patience. They peer far off into the distance and patiently await the perfect time to achieve their goal.

 This pose has always been difficult for me. Not because my arms and body aren't strong enough, but because I was not brave enough. I always thought I would bonk myself on the forehead, or just fall flat on my face. But with my increasing belief in myself and a daily practice I have accomplished The Crow Pose-now, my next hurdle was to be brave enough to teach my yogi's in Ananda class. I finally figured out how to do it.

I tricked them. Not in a poopy way...but I just kept moving through poses and never mentioned where I was going with it and got them into crow. And you know what? Not giving them time to doubt themselves worked! They didn't have time to think negative thoughts about themselves, nor did they have time to fear what might happen. I'm sure if at the beginning of class I had said, 'hey, were gonna do some experienced poses' they would have been nervous and doubting themselves and not enjoying the process. But they didn't have time to let fear creep in and the look of happy accomplishment on their faces was amazing.

 And that's the thing, ya know? That whole negative self talk and fear of the what ifs and what may happens, is the only obstacle holding you back in any endeavor you seek. That lesson opened my eyes- I learned how to sneak a teach, and I learned that...really, fear is nothing more than a false thought. Face that fear- go around it, go forward even if you are still afraid. But the minute you start in on yourself with the negative thoughts and speak, you will fail. That whole "can't never could, so try" statement. Yeah- that's truth.

But She Doesn't Look Sick...

I don't look sick, do I?

I'm not disabled, Thank GOD, and I'm not dying or have such a debilitating disease that I'm not or can't be active. I have hypothyroidism- which SUCKS and causes stupid symptoms like...

Weight Gain

Memory loss

Foggy Memory

Tired/lethargy

Weak

Depression

Dry Skin

Brittle Nails

Constipation

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

 A few years back when I was pregnant with my middle son I was diagnosed with Hyperthyroid- it's no good either. But, I didn't feel this way. And I was thin, which is vain but true. And then I went through a period where I was fine, nothing was wrong with me! Little did I know that the hyper was causing my body to produce too much hormone and that eventually it was gonna cause my thyroid to poop out. Sure enough, now it produces too little hormone. For a long time i thought that I was super tired because of lack of sleep, four kids, night job as a bartender, drinking, over taxing myself. And yes, while those things added to my problem, I was unaware of the fact that my little throat butterfly was out of whack. So i'm on medication, and I've quit caffeine, lessened my sugar, and almost given up gluten. As well as doing yoga 6 days a week and drinking a gallon or more of water a day. Guess what- I still have a gut that causes people-even complete strangers, to ask me when I'm due.Not only is it embarrassing to explain to the person, it hurts my feelings. A Lot. I know they are not trying to be mean. And I know that I'm doing everything that I can to get my weight under control...even though I don't look obese, I have a huge gut and extra weight everywhere. Forty extra pounds on a 5'6 small frame really shows up you know? Anyway...

 So here's where I'm going with this. There are a lot of folks out there that have illnesses that you can't see; and they are trying to manage, and struggle with on a daily basis. Some days they feel fine- like today, I'm not tired, I feel good, and I'm able to stay busy. But then there are days that you feel rotten, and you can't leave your house or your bed. Those people are not FAKING IT. Just because you can't see the physicality of an illness does not mean it doesn't exist. Just because you don't see wounds or scars does not mean that person is not in agonizing pain. Be compassionate, to EVERYONE. Give everybody a chance! You have no idea what battle or path these people are trudging through and by dismissing them because of an 'invisible' illness you are doing them a HUGE injustice. And as far as judging that little lady that parks in the handicap zone and then hops out and walks quickly to into the store without a visible limp, or if she/he is in their twenties and they look 'fine'...don't be an asshole. DO NOT judge them. They are luckily having a good day, and I guarantee they would trade a handicap sign and 'great'  parking for wellness any day. So stop being rude, and stop asking questions. Treat everyone EQUALLY AND COMPASSIONATELY. It's not hard to be polite or to just hold your damn tongue, Ya know?

The Importance of Shavasana

As a yoga teacher I usually don't follow up my practice with Shavasana (Corpse Pose).  I always tell myself things like "I don't have time, I need to go check on..., I don't really need it, I'll chill later, etc" What I've found, however, is that I do need it. And it's kinda like I'm leaving my practice unfinished. For the past week, whenever I practice I've made myself  lie down and experience the asana. And I feel BETTER. Even more relaxed and energized at the same time. I sometimes notice in class when I get to this pose at the end, some folks are uncomfortable. I understand it's unnerving to close your eyes and let your guard down in a room full of strangers. Some people are reluctant to relax completely, afraid they may fall asleep, or snore, or even worse, be totally relaxed and fart. So they defeat the purpose by fidgeting, keeping their eyes wide open, barraging their brain with tasks and lists.

 Some things that I have learned since starting my practice years ago are:
I think you may actually be safest in the confines of a group of yogi's.It's a den of trust.
People are so worried about themselves they don't notice you and your noises.
Everybody snores and farts- EVERYBODY.
You need to take some time for yourself and relax. The reason you're so uptight? You don't relax enough!

Shavasana is helpful to you completely. Mind Body and Spirit. Some of the benefits of Shavasana are:

a decrease in heart rate and the rate of respiration, blood pressure, muscle tension
a reduction in general anxiety,a reduction in the number and frequency of anxiety attacks
an increase in energy levels and in general productivity
an improvement in concentration and in memory
an increase in focus,a decrease in fatigue, coupled with deeper and sounder sleep
and improved self-confidence

Why would you not want to feel better, look better, have more energy, sleep better, and walk around with your self confidence intact?!?

 So I'm challenging all you yogi's who skip Shavasana. Try it for the next 10 practices- at least 7 minutes of corpse pose. And then, see how you feel. It's remarkable!

Shhh- My Souls Talking

Free Printable-share it, give it, love it.

Shhh- hear that? That litany of voices in your head...how do you ever get anything done? I have the same mixture of sounds blaring through my skull every day. Here are a few things that I do to shush them up.

!. Julia Cameron is a genius...I write three pages in long hand everyday. EVERYDAY. Some times its lists, sometimes its notes, diary pages, sketches with catchy phrases...but everyday I write something. It totally dispels a bit of that noise and trash that's cluttering up my brain space.

2. Meditate- I sit for 10 minutes EVERY DAY in a quiet place and let my self quiet down and I just breathe. When a thought comes in my head, I gently imagine that I let it float into a box and then I concentrate on my breath again. Even if I only get a few seconds of real meditation everyday, a few seconds to me is better than none.

3. Walk outside. Go into nature. Sometimes just letting my bare feet touch grass and soil soothes the loudness in my brain.

Try one or all of these things. Get a routine set up, where you write, then meditate, and then maybe go outside. Slow down and b-r-e-a-t-h-e. With time you'll notice that its a lot more quiet and roomy in that ole skull of yours.

Lessons I wish I'd known BEFORE going to Yoga Class.

Yoga has changed me, my life and my outlook on life in so many ways. I love it and try to find my way to my mat everyday. But when I started, there were these misconceptions and falseities about yoga that I wish I'd had someone to talk to about. Maybe this will help you gain the confidence to start your own practice and fall in love with yoga too.

 These are some general 'rules' most people going into yoga don't know or kinda know...


Before your class:

Please, avoid eating.(You will be physically miserable if you do) Light snacks such as juices, fruits or smoothies are great an hour before class.
Wear comfortable attire that does not restrict bodily movements.
Don't dress provocatively or scantily- I don't want to be behind you and be able to see in to you! 
You don't have to have name brand gear. Why spend 100 bux on yoga pants you're going to sweat in? T-shirt, stretch pants- perfect.
Avoid using perfume or scented lotions for some participants may have environmental sensitivities.
Because Yoga is practiced bare foot, please plan to remove your shoes.
Drink plenty of water before and after the class

Upon Entering the Studio:

Plan to arrive 10 or 15 minutes before class.
If you bring a cell phone make sure the ringer is off
If you arrive early, please wait quietly until the previous class ends
Remove your shoes before entering the yoga room
Set up your mat and chill there- do some warm ups or meditate.
Inform your instructor if you have any health concerns or injuries(I usually ask).

Extras I like to add:

Don't let the fact that you're not a size 2 stop you. I'm a healthy girl and I love yoga! Yoga is for EVERYONE.

Try every class you can, and every teacher you can. Just because you like/dislike someones appearance or personality does not mean you will like their class- be open to everything!

BREATHE- synchronized movement and breath should be your goal!

Smile! This is your own personal time, enjoy it!

Chill- no one is judging you, they're too worried about what they look like.

If it doesn't feel good, DON'T DO IT!

Yoga is not a competition sport, you are doing this for you. 

Yoga is not a religion.It's for any and every body. I practice along side people from all different religions, cultures, states, countries- everything. And you don't have to chant or meditate or sing, it's fun, but if it makes you uncomfortable then DON'T DO IT!

You are going to yoga for so many things-health, weight, body image, mental, connection. Whatever the reason, don't let the fact that you may not succeed immediately hold you back! It called a PRACTICE for a reason!

Remember- There is no Yoga Police...no one is going to rush in and tell you you are wrong or make fun of you. If you feel uncomfortable in the class, speak with the instructor afterwards.Communicate! They are there to assist you in your personal place and help you connect with yourself and to have fun! They are not there to be judgmental. I hope this eases your mind about yoga and maybe gets you out and on a mat today!

If you want to see me I teach at On Track Yoga 4 classes a week, and I love to meet new people!

Cantaloupe and Kale?

Smoothie Time!
My lady friend and (unbeknownst to her) yoga guru Rachael told me that I should start using Kale in place of spinach in my drinks/smoothies because it would be more cooling to my fiery pitta nature. Well ding dong if she aint right! Now that I've started using Kale I feel as if it IS cooler and more soothing, and maybe I'm jumping the gun a bit, but it seems as if my skin is not quite so pinky. (Being a natural redhead, I have a pink on the verge of red complexion, Depending on how hot my body is at the time).

So today, I thought I'd share my delicious newfangled to me recipe for a Cantaloupe and Kale Smoothie!

1c Kale (washed, but i didn't even chop it)
1c Cantaloupe
a handful of Goji berries
1/4c of Chia Seeds
1/2 a banana ( for a bit more sweetness)
2c Ice

I just threw everything into the blender and pressed liquefy! It made enough ( 3c or .75L) that I drank it throughout the evening and then had the rest for breakfast.
 The main difference in the kale and the spinach is texture. The Kale tends to be pretty crunchy, or toothsome; while the spinach smooths out a lot more and becomes more 'liquidy'. But the overall flavor is usually masked by the sweetness of the fruit. Bananas and apples almost always over power so use them sparingly if you are trying for a balance of flavor.

Rest-Restore-Repeat

After a long week of work, family, chaos etc...my favorite thing to do is rest, restore, and repeat. Sundays are made just for that. I sleep in a bit, eat super healthy all day, drink lots of water, and breathe.

that's my cutie patootie ginger, meditating!

...I get to teach family yoga and then bring it on home for some yummy dinner and family time...Sunday is quickly becoming my favorite day ever! Check out out site for On Track Yoga- if your ever this way we'd love to have you!!

My Reality

 Frida Kahlo has always inspired me. She Lived in a body that fought her, loved a man that fought her, and lived a life that fought her. Yet she pushed on. She created beauty out of chaos and light out of dark. She coaxed music from her pain and placed it upon canvas. She was a rock star.
  One of the things  I like about being an artist is that I have a visual account of my life that will be left behind for all who care to see. My great great great great grandson could look through the art that I leave behind and learn more about me than the passed down stories of family members. To me, that is legacy.

 When I went to school for Yoga, the one thing they stressed the most was MEDITATE. You can't teach Yoga if you don't know yourself. This is something that will always stick with me. even if days go by where I don't hit the mat, I make it an obligation to myself to sit, everyday, twice a day, and meditate. Now, to a lot of folks i've spoken with, they equate meditation with something un-christian...this is silly on so many levels. I'm non-denominational, but I encourage my children to pray before each meal, they go to church and I read bible stories with them. I will never spoon feed religion down their throats, but i will encourage them to seek a spirit within and without themselves, and trust something bigger than themselves. I've been told that "OM' is un-christian and should not be included in my practice for the public!?! Here's the real deal(according to me)
 Jesus himself was said to meditate. It's a time of self reflection.
 OM is said to be the vibrational hum/sound that the earth and Universe make when listened to. When you say Om, you are trying to create the 'Universal"sound, to become one with the Universe and all.
 Meditation- You sit, you breathe, you still your mind...You listen to yourself, make peace with your sub concious, and strengthen your brain on so many levels...how the heck is this bad?!?

 When I meditate, I sit in front of my altar, or Puja table. On it are all of the things that are influencing me right now. I add to and take away all of the time. I like to have the elements present, it makes me feel more grounded, more one with Mother Earth. I sit in a comfortable position on the floor on a cushion and have a blanket under the fleshy part of my booty. If this won't work for you, sit in a chair! This is for you. be comfortable! I light candles, and sing a little, then I set my timer close my eyes and breathe. In and out for an even count. When I feel calm and my crazy monkey mind has slowed, I start to chant my Mantra. Eventually you should choose one, but try out as many as you can till one fills right. A great place to find one is Spirit Voyage, they have a huge list with audio so that you know how to say them. If this is to 'woo woo' for you, recite your favorite parable, or hymn, or just repeat a word- truth, love, peace...etc. I started at 10 minutes twice a day, but now I sit for about 20 minutes twice everyday. do what's right for you. but, the more time you take for yourself, the more you will get out of it. I really do have a better understanding of who I am and how my brain works, as well as my heart and soul. And that helps me in all areas of my life, especially my creative life! 

Oldie but Goodie

 I love to create from home, but sometimes I'm missing the space of a 'real' studio. I now have a HUGE studio, and it feels a bit lonely there. When I teach classes it's awesome, women, laughter, music, food and wine. But when I'm alone I'm super aware of how silent and alone it is. So I have a home studio for smaller projects,sewing, journaling and blogging, and my away from home studio is for teaching, yoga classes, meetings and big paintings. I do think i tend to work better when others are present, but leave me to my own devices. Weird huh?

 I'm STILL rearranging my home studio for more space and just because, you know, I'm a hoarder, and something has to go! I've been so preoccupied with making art, I'm avoiding making a space for art. Someone stole my phone, which was my camera too, but as soon as I get a new one I'll post new pics. For now enjoy my oldies but goodies...

Visual Journaling with the girls.

My Intuitive painting created with a live band...awesome!

31 Days of Giving

 I've been lax in my posts but I have been gathering bags and bags of clothing and toys to give to others and to donate to the Kidney Foundation. Every free day is spent gathering and giving. Getting the kids involved is a feat-but their toys are going to good homes!
  I'm also giving of my time on Tuesdays and Thursdays through the month of December. I'm offering free open studio time at my new art studio located at 825 Union Rd Gastonia, NC 28054-I'm in the Visual Arts building and offer classes from knitting to journaling to painting. I also have a monthly woman's circle starting back up in January. And yoga and meditation weekly. It's my favorite place ever right now!

I'm going to enjoy the giving of the season. This came to me last night after the 10th toy commercial in a row followed by a chorus of "That's what I want for Christmas!" I've failed my children in this area, they're so hungry for materialistic goods, and things being advertised to them and they've lost their sense of what it truly means. There is a beautiful JOY in the giving of an item to someone else. So in order to remind my family and myself  of the TRUE meaning of the season. I will give something away everyday. And I'll post about it here. It may be a tutorial, a recipe, a book to a child, something of mine that will bring JOY to someone else. And I'd like to invite you to do the same!I'd really like to make this a community event- so let me know if you want to join me in 31 Days of Giving and I'll create a blogroll that we can all visit and see how everyone else is giving!

Manipura

(I've been working on my Chakras for a while now, and I feel like it's an ongoing process, but that I'm really starting to understand the process and myself a lot more...here is just a bit of what I've learned for you to start your own practice and healing...)

What are Chakras?
 Chakra's (pronounced Cha-kra, like chocolate chip...thanks Sam and Kaoverii!) are mental and emotional energy centers placed along your spine. Asana's (yoga poses) were invented to help heal and release blockages within your chakra system. ANYONE can work on their Chakra's- without going against their religious beliefs.  Learning about your chakra's gives you access to your bodies physical responses so you can minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive ones!
 There are currents of energy that course throughout your body - like a road map they are plentiful, but there are 4 main highways...the first two are-
 The upward current-Mukti or the freedom path runs from the earth and rises through the body toward ever more awareness.
The downward current Bukti or manifestation  starts at the crown of your head and goes down towards the earth growing more and more specific until it manifests on a physical plane.

Peoples issues are almost never physical but always tied to mental or chakra energy. Heal that and heal yourself.

Manipura is the Solar Plexus or Naval Chakra. This chakra is involved with self-esteem, a “warrior” energy.”  It gives the power of transformation, governs digestion, metabolism, can take risks, assert our will, take responsibility for our life. It controls actions such as ambition, possession and conquest.As the seat of digestive fire, this Chakra regulates the function of the Pancreas and digestive organs. Blockages in this center can cause many health problems such as digestive disorders, circulatory disease, diabetes and fluctuations in blood pressure.This is where you also hold your guilt, shame, and annoying behaviors. 

Many people hide behind substance abuse when this chakra is out of whack...spinning in place and never getting anywhere...

 I recommend journaling everyday, and also meditating and doing asana's. While working on your Manipura Chakra ask yourself a few questions while sitting grounded comfortably and concentrating on the chakra such as...

* How do you control yourself? What issues do you have with control?
*How can you channel you energy into something more productive?
*What can you start doing TODAY, to move forward?

When you meditate, focus on your tummy(naval) picture a bright shining light feeling you up, warming you up, and ridding you of darkness. Picture upward flow, un blocking the angst and weight that sits there.

If you feel as if this is a journey you can't handle on your own, you're welcome to email me ( happysappytrees@gmail.com) with questions and comments. I would be happy to help in any way I can. I'm no expert, but,  I have been working on myself since I realized I was alive. It's a never-ending journey and I'm constantly being taught by others around me as well as my subconscious. You can never have enough knowledge or growth! I'd love to hear about your journey!

 I will be offering an on-line workshop based on healing, art,  chakras and intuition starting in January. I hope that you will join me for that as well!

Pump Up The Volume

YAHOOEY! I Finally did it!! I wrote my first e-book! 

 I've really been trying to get my shizz together and work on beautiful freebies for y'all to enjoy and this is the very first...and it's supa cool!!! It's all about the insanely simple things I do to pump up the volume on my intuition to ear audio path and how you too can do it! 

Check it out

Love it up

 And tell me what you think!

To receive my awesomness straight in your inbox-to love, enjoy and share if you'd like 

sign up here...

Yoga, Giving, and Dreadlocks...

I created this poster with the Calm-o-matic

I LOVE yoga. LOVE. But when most people think of yoga, they think of pretty ladies, super bendy in spandexy stuff, with no sweat, all serene like...

What's really happening, to me at least, is work. I'm practicing to make my body stronger, my mind smoother, and my soul more open. Yoga isn't just asanas and chanting, it's getting into you, being quiet and centered. And listening. To you. Deep down inside where you forget there is a voice. I am constantly practicing and trying to hear my rhythm to sync up with the universe...that's my goal. Meditation is more yoga than poses. It's posing your mind and stilling your heart. I do love a physical challenge. And i feel exhilarated when I conquer a pose that I thought was impossible for someone like me. But the true yogic feeling comes after my practice. When I sit and be still, and just BE. That connection I make with myself is like no other...and I find true bliss.

There's another way that I find bliss. Giving. I did this last year, and I feel like it's time to start again! Starting December 1, I will begin to go through my belongings, and give all of the things away that are no longer useful or productive in my life. It makes me feel wonderful knowing that the things that I once loved will now be loved by another. I also want to use this time to give of myself in service. I like to help out at women's shelters and donate my time to animal shelters as well. Giving of your items, time and love are all equally important, and i feel like this season need more love and more self sacrifice, than more buying and stress. If you'd like to join me in 31 Days of Giving, leave a comment below and I'll add a link to your blog...we'll follow each other in service and love!

Two years ago at this time, this is what I looked like...and so many different people commented on my appearance, spitting the word 'hippie' like an insult constantly, that I cut my hair off...and now, of course, I regret it. I think what I am going to do is wait until my hair has a bit more length(it's only about 4 inches right now) maybe chin length, I'm going to re-dread it, and add extensions to the ends for length.

I did this before and you can see a tiny tutorial here. Never again will I let others dictate my appearance! I'm a lot stronger and way more sure of myself now, thank goodness! When I start to redread, i'll post plenty of tutorials and lessons here on the blog.

My weekend coffee fueled babble-thon should probably come to a close...I hope y'all know how much I appreciate being listened too, and i love community! Please feel free to email me with any comments or questions... happysappytrees@gmail.com

~Namaskar~

Anastasia

Svadhisthana

this is the second in the Chakra series- 

self worth- the seat of life

(I've been working on my Chakras for a while now, and I feel like it's an ongoing process, but that I'm really starting to understand the process and myself a lot more...here is just a bit of what I've learned for you to start your own practice and healing...)

What are Chakras?
 Chakra's (pronounced Cha-kra, like chocolate chip...thanks Sam and Kaoverii!) are mental and emotional energy centers placed along your spine. Asana's (yoga poses) were invented to help heal and release blockages within your chakra system. ANYONE can work on their Chakra's- without going against their religious beliefs.  Learning about your chakra's gives you access to your bodies physical responses so you can minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive ones!
 There are currents of energy that course throughout your body - like a road map they are plentiful, but there are 4 main highways...the first two are-
 The upward current-Mukti or the freedom path runs from the earth and rises through the body toward ever more awareness.
The downward current Bukti or manifestation  starts at the crown of your head and goes down towards the earth growing more and more specific until it manifests on a physical plane.

Peoples issues are almost never physical but always tied to mental or chakra energy. Heal that and heal yourself.

Svadhisthana is your second Chakra also called your Sacral Chakra. It represents how you handle your own emotions and sexuality. Imagine it as an invisible wheel of energy located a few inches below the navel in the center of the pelvis right in front of the sacrum. Blocked Svadhisthana energy can result in feelings of 
having done something wrong and guilt can ensue. It is difficult to taste life’s sweetness and nothing seems good enough. There also may follow a feeling of helplessness, as if you have no choice and no initiative to change. In some cases denial of pleasure may result along with self-imposed boundaries about food intake or exercise.The Sacral Chakra is associated with passion and creativity – and the soul desire to feel.

So, I recommend journaling everyday, and also meditate and do asana's. While working on your Sacral Chakra ask yourself a few questions while sitting grounded comfortably and concentrating on the chakra such as...

Am I well in my body- where are my insecurities and how can I fix them?
What can I let go of that was traumatic to me?
What can I forgive or grow away from?

As you journal, really listen to your truth. Envision your self; safe and sound, and open your self to the energy around you. This may bring up issues you never realized you had, with yourself, environment or your spirit. That's okay! Getting to know the real you is scary. Admitting your different than what you thought you knew is weird to most people. But, the better you understand yourself, you give yourself the gift of growth and truth and change. Open up and experience all that life is offering, it's an amazing trip!

Following journaling try to meditate – focus on the region of the chakra, envision the color orange and repeat a mantra (I am well in body, mind and spirit or something that resonates within you)

If you feel as if this is a journey you can't handle on your own, you're welcome to email me ( happysappytrees@gmail.com) with questions and comments. I would be happy to help in any way I can. I'm no expert, but,  I have been working on myself since I realized I was alive. It's a never-ending journey and I'm constantly being taught by others around me as well as my subconscious. You can never have enough knowledge or growth! I'd love to hear about your journey!

 I will be offering an on-line workshop based on healing, art,  chakras and intuition starting in January. I hope that you will join me for that as well!

Muladhara

this is a self empowering series that I will offer on Wednesdays- let me know if you enjoy it!

Survival- Security

(I've been working on my Chakras for a while now, and I feel like it's an ongoing process, but that I'm really starting to understand the process and myself a lot more...here is just a bit of what I've learned for you to start your own practice and healing...)

What are Chakras?
 Chakra's (pronounced Cha-kra, like chocolate chip...thanks Sam and Kaoverii!) are mental and emotional energy centers placed along your spine. Asana's (yoga poses) were invented to help heal and release blockages within your chakra system. ANYONE can work on their Chakra's- without going against their religious beliefs.  Learning about your chakra's gives you access to your bodies physical responses so you can minimize the negative effects and maximize the positive ones!
 There are currents of energy that course throughout your body - like a road map they are plentiful, but there are 4 main highways...the first two are-
 The upward current-Mukti or the freedom path runs from the earth and rises through the body toward ever more awareness.
The downward current Bukti or manifestation  starts at the crown of your head and goes down towards the earth growing more and more specific until it manifests on a physical plane.

Peoples issues are almost never physical but always tied to mental or chakra energy. Heal that and heal yourself.

Muladhara is your first chakra, also called the root chakra.  It  represents how you participate in the physical realm...body, home, work, environment ..it's self preservation...it makes sure you survive so you can continue to grow and enjoy this journey.

So, I recommend journaling everyday, and also meditate and do asana's. While working on your Root Chakra ask yourself a few questions while sitting grounded and concentrating on the chakra such as...

What keeps me grounded?
How do I connect with my physical body? With Nature?
Where do I feel safe?

As you journal, really listen to your truth. Envision your self; safe and sound, and open your self to the energy around you. This may bring up issues you never realized you had, with yourself, environment or your spirit. That's okay! Getting to know the real you is scary. Admitting your different than what you thought you knew is weird to most people. But, the better you understand yourself, you give yourself the gift of growth and truth and change. Open up and experience all that life is offering, it's an amazing trip!

If you feel as if this is a journey you cant handle on your own, you are welcome to email me ( happysappytrees@gmail.com) with questions and comments. I would be happy to help in any way I can. I'm no expert, but,  I have been working on myself since I realized I was alive. It's a never-ending journey and I'm constantly being taught by others around me as well as my subconscious. You can never have enough knowledge or growth! I'd love to hear about your journey!

 I will be offering an on-line workshop based on healing, chakras and intuition starting in January. I hope that you will join me for that as well!

Positive Living

Notice my amazing lotus spare tire...not so cute- but it will be gone soon...what do you think about that?!?

Make EVERY DAY a SPECIAL DAY!!

I've totally been creating my NEW and IMPROVED life plan; and I've been implementing new things daily. Since Fall is my favorite season, I'd thought I'd start something new and hopefully feel better and more magical every day. 

1. Enjoy each day- I've been drinking my tea out of my wedding china, drinking my water out of a wine glass, and wearing my 'good' panties every day! Why wait for a special occasion? Isn't being alive today special enough?!?

2. Slow Down- I always rush rush rush to everything, which, in turn, stresses me out so much I start sounding like a screech owl! I've started to chill, and start getting ready or get going a few minutes earlier so I can get places and do things on time...no more late Ana! (hopefully)- I make sure I enjoy the sights and sounds of all environments that I enter, and stop for deep breaths constantly.

3. YOGA- everyday...yes, EVERYDAY. I'll do an A'sana practice anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour or so. I then follow up with 20 minutes of seated meditation. It's not about tiring your body out or competing with anyone, it's about FEELING GOOD. Stretching feel good! And after I meditate I'm so peaceful and clear, work and daily activities are super easy to concentrate on.

4. Madhu Vidya- What's that? It's waking up every single day and having a positive thought about the day. "today is going to be great!", "I love to be alive!", " Life is amazing!"- Thinking positively first thing in the morning will create a positive path and schedule for the rest of the day. Good energy attracts Good Energy, bad attracts bad, it's that simple.

5. UNPLUG- I'm as addicted to Face Book and twitter as well as checking my emails as much as the next person. But since I've been cutting off the computer and putting the phone to the side, I've been more creative! And less lazy! I can actually live without knowing what you're cooking for dinner and without telling you that I'm at the bookstore. I check my emails and such in the a.m. and once in the p.m. and try to create my blog posts in my head or on paper so that I'm not staring at the computer for new ideas to just come to me. 

Just starting with one or all of these things will help you feel more motivated and centered. I feel better physically and mentally! What better day than today to start ? It's all about kindness and living...get to it!!

The Fire Within

My fire is burning bright today. Being fed ideas like fuel, and fanned by the long ago false notion that I had ruined my life. I am an

  UNTEACHER.

I take every thing you have every been told about rules and throw them out the window. You don't need rules.

You need to LISTEN. 

Listen to your heart, your soul, your gut...

that's called

Intuition.

We all have it, some just hear it louder than others. 

I'm here to show you how to turn it up!! 

The Fire Within Intuitive Painting Workshop

Reclaiming your magic and opening your heart through paint and journaling.

I will be unschooling the whole workshop. There are no rights or wrongs or rules. Just Paint and Passion. We will relearn the art of creativity through process and intuition. Letting color splash and play on canvas. Creating BIG and BOLD. Artists and creatives of all levels and backgrounds are invited to join.

We will...

meditate, journal, move

and...

Paint our heART out. 

For those of you who like an itinerary- 

We will begin at 10am on Saturday December 1 at Arts on Main in Gastonia NC by joining a circle and setting our intentions. We will then  journal and meditate followed by 2 hours of passionate painting. We'll break for lunch and then reconvene to continue to paint, alternating painting, movement and writing our souls out. We will be ready for clean up by 5!

Cost is $140 

All supplies and lunch will be provided, as well as a playbook to take home.

Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a journal, we will have some for sale if you'd like to purchase one. Plenty of fun and surprises are in store!!

FAQs

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

We offer plenty of free and safe parking behind the gallery/studio in a secure parking lot. 

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

please contact Anastasia Boswell at happysappytrees@gmail.com

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No. I will have a copy of attendees.

What is the refund policy?

It is necessary to pre-register for all workshops in advance. Fees are returnable if your cancellation is made at least 1 week prior to workshop date (less a 20% service fee)

If the class is canceled by HappyTrees Studio for any reason, your fee is completely refundable. Fees are due at the time of registration. Sorry, no exceptions. No refunds after the one week deadline.

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

That's fine! In fact I encourage you to purchase a ticket for someone you know who will benefit from this workshop!!

I'll be sending out more information about the class after you register...and you can register here...The Fire Within

Yoga Giveaway!!

I'm offering another giveaway!!!! Today, I'm giving away 2 Prizes!!First place is a months worth of free yoga classes with me(!) AND a yoga mat!!! Unfortunately, this is a locals only giveaway...so....second place gets  a  Yoga Mat and a  print of my Goddess Within painting! Leave a comment here before midnight September 27 eastern time and I will randomly pick TWO winners!!! For each 'share' (FB, Twitter, post on your blog) I will enter your name again! Just leave a link to your shares and remind me in your comment here! 

GOOD LUCK!!