Midwest Power Yoga

Moses Green Bus Tour Master Classes and Trunk Show at Midwest Power Yoga Appleton and Mequon and at Bodhi Tree Power Yoga Retreat!

2009-10-12T12:17:00.000-07:00

Join Deborah Williamson, Master Baptiste Teacher, in Amelia Island, October 2-4,2009

2009-07-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

Letter from Paige at Africa Yoga Project

2009-06-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

Post - Bootcamp has been days of complete exhaustion, weeks of total inspiration, sleepless nights and many hours away from the computer. There is something that Baron says at Bootcamps "remember you are a transformed person going back into a untransformed environment" but the radical thing about this program is so many of the students live in the same community - 56 to be exact - that we came back to a transformed environment. It was more than personal development, what you guys were part of and gave to us - was community development.

We have been meeting as a group over twice a week, with many smaller meetings happening during the week. It is the money that you raised that allowed the training to happen and transportation costs for these weekly meetings. We practice on yoga mats, not concrete and wear comfortable, clean yoga clothes, not hole filled, dirty old rags. It is your letters, carrying of mats and money that has given us these supplies.

The school in Amboselli, at Jacobs town, opened this week. There are 50 children attending that were previously at home, either minding goats or helping their mothers cook and clean at ages 4-6 years old. At the request of the women in both villages we have purchased reading and writing books for adult education classes that are starting next month. These women are illiterate and now will be taught how to read and write. It is the money you raised that allowed us to buy these books and employ a teacher.

Everlynne (Victoria) is back in school, in the 7th grade. She had dropped out due to poverty. She now gets a meal everyday and has a new uniform, text book and will teach yoga to her school mates. Another boy from Jackson's village is going to high school, he is an orphan and had also dropped out due to poverty. This is a direct sponsporship that Dina T has provided for on top of the $5000 she raised.

My first trip to Kenya to teach and learn left me exhausted. It challenged me in every way possible - the food was different, I got sick, I did not feel safe, and at the same time something in my heart opened that had never been touched. I was the catalyst of change for someone besides myself. I experienced this muscle called "Making a Difference." If not me, who? That first trip to teach became the first of many. Just as yoga practice on the mat is addictive, so is making a difference. Once I saw that it was possible to affect a life so profoundly just by making phone calls, sending emails, raising money, and just plain "doing it" - once I saw the possibilities - well, who wouldn't want to keep going?

I believe that we all want to do good in this world. No matter who we are or how hard our own lives are (in fact, sometimes for that very reason), I think we all have an innate need to give to others, to share ourselves and our resources with those who have less than us.

I'm blessed to know you people who want to help – and blessed as well to know people who need the help. I know that may seem oddly phrased, but I do believe that both are an opportunity to open myself to the greater good in myself and in this world. I am consistently blown away by our beautiful needs - our need for each other, our need for connection, our need to devote ourselves to something larger.

Thank you,
Paige Elenson
Founder Africa Yoga Project

Deborah Williamson from Midwest Power Yoga and her crew will be teaching yoga in the Yoga Journal tent at the Avon Breast Cancer Walk in Chicago!

2009-05-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

About the Avon Walk Chicago
Noted for its Lake Michigan shoreline and downtown skyline (considered by many as the most picturesque skyline in the world), America’s third-largest city plays host to the Avon Walk Chicago, June 6-7, 2009. You will travel along the vast lakefront, past stunning architecture and through vibrant multi-cultural neighborhoods. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’ll come face-to-face with the Midwest warmth, friendliness and sophistication of Chicagoland—all the while helping the city’s breast cancer community gain momentum and take one step closer to a cure.

JOIN US!

Watch for more fundraising details to come...

2009-05-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

AYP/BPYI - Day 10 Travel Home

2009-04-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

Health Recap:
1. Blisters on my heels and cuts on tops of feet (new Keens)
2. Large bruise right arm with strange looking cuts (Bat night)
3. Sunburn on top of shoulders (Masai village)
4. Large bruises on shins from kneeling on cement (at Teacher Training)
5. Stye in right eye (at Teacher Training)
6. Left leg numb from knee down from foot sting 24 hours (bee? owner says small scorpion)
7. Severe stomach cramping and burping (2nd to last night of Teacher Training - Giardia?)
8. Near Breakdown (Mombasa ticket booked for May 29th vs April 29th)
9. Giardia Treatment (cxl'd in Sheboygan due to clinic busy with Flu - 2 Swine Flu cases)

Canceled teaching in Denver for weekend to rest.

I would go back to Africa in a heartbeat! It was amazing and I feel so blessed to be a part of the Africa Yoga Project. Look out! Midwest Power Yoga - Kenya. Moses, one of the participants from BPYI Teacher Training 1 and Bootcamp was a facilitator with Baron at the Africa training and found a studio location in Nairobi. His rent is $100 a month and would like to offer free classes and bus fair.

Back to the regular teaching schedule next week!
Glad to be home.

AYP/BPYI - Last Day Diani Beach

2009-04-29T14:11:00.000-07:00

My last morning was spent lounging in an infinity pool at one of Paige's friend's home. This is the 8 bedroom house down the road from Shaanti where the girls stayed during Teacher Training.

I road Mario the camel down the beach and after lunch, jumped into a van with Lisa and Siddiqi and headed to Mombasa to begin the journey home.

The ride to Mombasa was scary at times. The streets were dirty and crowded and the ferry was full of people and cars. Mombasa is an island of haze from all of the exhaust. At one point on the highway we were pulled over at a Kenya Police checkpoint. We weren't sure what would happen and the Police are not always safest people to run into. When the officer approached our car, he noticed our "Be The Change" shirts and immediately smiled waving us on yelling "Obama, Kenya's son!"

AYP/BPYI - Day 9 Leaving Shaanti

2009-04-29T13:56:00.000-07:00

Shaanti was another beautiful resort. The food was most challenging. Meals consisted of mostly rice, potatoes and bread and rarely fruits or vegetables. I ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the 5 days and we had a few treats like fish, beans, and ice cream.

AYP/BPYI - Day 4-8 Teacher Training 1

2009-04-28T13:41:00.000-07:00

The 5 Day Teacher Training was amazing! The group was very young, with the average age around 18. I realized that people are people and the program was run exactly the same as any other Level 1 Teacher Training. It was a condensed version, but just as powerful and transformational.

AYP/BPYI - Day 3 Heading to Coast

2009-04-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

Paige has spent 3 years working side by side with the Masai to develop and empower this community. Not only has she given this community a school, they are planting bio-diesel trees.

Later in the afternoon we boarded 2 planes and took a short flight to Ukunda, Kenya. We will be staying at the Shaanti Holistic Center where the Baptiste Teacher Training with take place.

AYP/BPYI - Day 3

2009-04-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

We began with and early morning game drive, breakfast at the base of Kilimanjaro, and then the Masai village where Jacob (our resident Masai for the trip) lives.

At Jacob's village we were greeted with a beautiful dance, signing and ceremony. We saw them play games, start a fire, and toured the inside of their dung huts.

I had another opportunity to pee in a hole. Success! I pulled my pants up and squatted with my feet wide. Not the end of bathroom troubles. The Masai are known for their jumping. One of the girls grabbed my hand to start jumping, prior to locating the bathroom and I almost wet my pants.

Later in the afternoon we gathered together for the opening of a brand new AYP built school. The ceremony was beautiful with school children lined up in sweaters? During the ceremony, Wade played a whaling kirtan and Baron was given a spear.

AYP/BPYI - Day 2 (Night)

2009-04-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

We stayed at Ol Tukai Lodge at the base of Kilimanjaro, where zebra, buffalo, monkeys, and elephant are within a 100 feet of your dinner table.

At night, I roomed with Dina. She asked me if she could read with the light on, but I wondered why she wanted to sleep with the light on. I could sleep through anything and it didn't bother me. At about 4am the generator kicked off and I awoke when I heard something in our room. I couldn't see and my flashlight was in my backpack. I kept hearing this rustling. Dina was asleep with her sheet and pillow over her head and I could tell her flashlight was on. I assumed she fell asleep reading.

At around 5am, the generator kicked on, the lights went on and something black, round and heavy landed on my belly. I brushed it off the bed and took up sleeping (hardly) under my covers like Dina. When we got up in the morning, Dina asked me if I saw any bats? That's why she slept with the light on and under the sheet. She said they were flying all over the room.

Neighboring the Lodge is a closed down resort overcome with blue balled monkeys. There were hundreds of them, always coming out to the roadway to check out the cars. Their balls are literally bright sky blue!

Cell phone reception was amazing! I had a signal everywhere, including in the Masai villages. Most of the men had a beaded belt to carry their walking stick, billy (club), knife, and cell phone.

AYP/BPYI - Day 2 continued

2009-04-22T12:29:00.000-07:00

After leaving the Masai village, Wade was yelling out different animals, that he didn't really see. But, then all of sudden there was a giraffe, a mother and baby! We saw so many animals: giraffe, hyena, wildebeest, ostrich, baboons, hippo, elephants, dik dik, gazelle, zebra, etc. The only animal we didn't see were lions.

In Masai culture, to become a warrior, males had to kill a lion. With the lion population depleted, males now marry to become warriors. Lions are still a threat to the Masai, but right now the drought is doing more damage.

AYP/BPYI - Day 2

2009-04-22T12:03:00.000-07:00

We headed towards Amboseli National Park where we would be staying for the night. On the way we stopped at a town about 30 minutes from Olgulului where we were going to haul some rocks for the foundation of a new school.

The town was a little scary, but we found a bar/club/eatery to stop for a bathroom break. This was my first time squatting over a hole in the floor. Utkatasana didn't do much for me, because I peed on my Crocs and got the bottoms of my pants wet.

When we arrived at the Masai village, the women, men and girls lined up to shake each of our hands and the boys bowed their heads so we could pat them. Once we made introductions, we handed out toys and school supplies to the kid's and women. AYP pays for the construction of the schools, but the kids need plenty of supplies. Pens are more valuable than money to the women for their kids.

Then, we headed out to a steel building, the school, with no floor yet. We walked with the Masai men and women to carry rocks. Because of the many scorpions hiding under the rocks, the adults would pick up and brush off the rocks for us to carry back to the floor of the school.

Baron and Wade did some hammering to help finish the roof construction.

After working, we shared some chai tea and then hoped into the trucks and headed towards Amboseli.

AYP/BPYI - Day 1

2009-04-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Nairobi is Kenya's most cosmopolitan city, the former capital of British East Africa. At 8am we headed for Sarakasi Trust, Africa Yoga Project's home base in the City Center.

Baron presented a morning yoga session with 54 Kenyans in chairs and then on the mat. We had lunch watching an acrobatic and dance show with Paige's boyfriend as the DJ.

After lunch, the group split up to shadow the outreach teachers in the slums. My group was with the "Ghetto Girls" and we headed to the slum area where they live and teach. When we arrived at the hall, a meeting was taking place so we started walking through the slums towards some drumming. Wade was in my group and wanted to join in with the drumming and singing. We gathered up around a couple of kids singing, dancing and drumming. Wade joined the musicians and we all took turns with the Ghetto Girls teaching about 70 small children yoga in the dirt. We had our hands and bodies buried in the dirt - high, low, up dog, down dog...

The kid's are always so polite, screaming "How are you" and they run right up to hold your hand. You can't walk anywhere without kid's following you, grabbing your hand or waving with the biggest smiles!

For the second half of the afternoon we walked to another area of the slums and met with Baron's group. We assisted about 100 kids in the dirt.

It was getting dark, but before we left we visited one of the Ghetto Girls mom in her home. It was small with one bed, a bench and couple of chairs and a burner for cooking. Her house held 9 people, including 3 babies. Her mother was 30.

For our safety we needed to get out of the slums before dark. We left just after sunset and took vans back to the Ngong House for dinner and a meeting. (We never made it to bed prior to midnight on any night during our stay.)

AYP/BPYI - Arrival

2009-04-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Arrived in Nairobi with Baron, Dillon, Jessica, Dina, Lisa, Nick and Kinndli. Paige was waiting with our vans to take us to Ngong House, a resort owned by Paige's friends.

Met up with more of the team, Philip, Lisa, Lauren, Siddiqi, Dina, Stacy, Arjay, Diana, etc.

This was an unbelievable treat. I thought we were staying in budget hotels (bugs, dirt) a step up from camping. It was a beautiful oasis in the middle of Nairobi and we had a chef preparing our meals.

I roomed with Kinndli, Lisa, Stacy and Paige in our own log home. I slept in the loft in the main room and used the pool table as my dresser. We stayed here for our first two nights. Our hosts provided us gracious hospitality and cared for our every need.

AYP/BPYI - Prep and Flights

2009-04-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

The planning for this trip began with a preview of the Africa Yoga Project video at the BPYI Bootcamp October 2008. Originally, the trip was scheduled for Dec/Jan 2009. Baron booked an event in London mid April and it worked nicely to piggy back the trip to Africa, since Baron was going to be half way the decision was to go now.

Following the Hawaii BPYI Teacher Training end in March, I made the commitment to go to Africa. I had 2 weeks to get shots, prepare, and rearrange my schedule.

I began with the numerous shots: hepatitas, typhoid, tetanus, flu, polio, meningitis, and picked up a prescription of mefloquine for malaria. Passport updated and Visa documents were ready three days prior. I had purchased a backpack, new Keens, plastic bags for my clothes and various medical supplies. All I needed to pack was my old yoga clothes and clogs that I could leave behind.

I also brought a large suitcase of 57 BePresent pants and 5 Be Present tanks for participants, 3 tins of Gatorade, 60 Nike yoga straps, 80 waivers, and 2 nerf footballs.

Today I leave Milwaukee to Chicago to London, to Nairobi, 23 hours of flying arriving 8:55pm at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. I watched 3 movies (Yes Man, Wallander, Bolt) and various tv shows.

Deborah Williamson Presenting at Yoga Journal Conference in Lake Geneva, WI - March 26-29, 2009

2009-03-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

Building Community (During Business of Yoga Workshop)
Thursday, March 26
3:00pm—4:00pm

Join us as we discuss the ups and downs of creating a community and client base in your own town. Learn what works and what doesn't, and how to "get out of your own way" to create prosperity.

Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga: Discover Your Strength, Awaken Your Spirit

Instructor: Deborah Williamson

Friday, March 279:00am-4:30pm:

All-Day IntensiveCode: AFWILL all levels

Get ready for a sweaty, inspiring yoga adventure! Based on the popular and dynamic style created by Baron Baptiste, this class includes creative modifications and some advanced variations. Leave old fears and limitations behind, and prepare to challenge your physical and mental edges! Mostly asana.

Morning Meditation
Saturday, March 28
7:00am-7:45am
Instructor: Deborah Williamson

Open to all.

The new DVD's are here! Kid's and All Levels Power Yoga!

2009-03-20T16:18:00.000-07:00

Wade Morissette at MPY Appleton

2009-03-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

Wade Morissette at MPY Appleton

2009-03-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

Debbie teaching New Year's Eve Bash at The Yoga Project in Texas!

2009-01-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

After Yoga Cool Down in WI!

2008-12-24T10:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Day/Holiday Class (December 24th)

2008-12-24T10:06:00.000-08:00

Sweat Lodge (December 13th)

2008-12-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Teacher Certification Graduation Class (December 13th)

2008-12-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

De Pere Open House (December 6th)

2008-12-24T09:51:00.000-08:00

All Day Bootcamp - Return to Greatness! (December 6th)

2008-12-24T09:45:00.000-08:00

All Day Bootcamp - Return to Greatness! (December 6th)

2008-12-24T09:29:00.000-08:00

Bryan Kest returns to Midwest Power Yoga Appleton!

2008-10-22T22:26:00.000-07:00

Power of Your Om Teacher Assistant Intensive taught by Debbie and Robin

2008-10-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

Power Yoga DVD photos from production at MPY Appleton

2008-10-21T05:25:00.000-07:00

Kid's Power Yoga DVD photo shoot during production at MPY Appleton

2008-10-21T05:21:00.000-07:00

Kid's Power Yoga DVD photos during production at MPY Appleton

2008-10-21T05:16:00.000-07:00

Debbie and Robin in Jacksonville with friends.

2008-10-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

Debbie and Robin teaching at MBody Yoga in Jacksonvillle

2008-10-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

Mark White's Black Tie 40th BDay Party in Jacksonville, OCT 10th, 2008

2008-10-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

Robin and Debbie trip to Jacksonville OCT 10, 2008

2008-10-10T21:30:00.000-07:00

We packed everything in carry-ons and only upset one man with our laughing out loud craziness!

Tamal at MPY Appleton OCT 9th, 2008 was a BLAST!!!!

2008-10-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

Midwest Power Yoga "Best Body Shop 2008" 920 Deluxe Magazine

2008-09-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Global Mala 108 Sun Salutations for the Africa Yoga Project at Midwest Power Yoga Appleton!

2008-09-20T12:02:00.000-07:00

Global Mala 108 Suns for Africa Yoga Project (Bill Santoski took us for a wild ride of 20 suns)

2008-09-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

Partner Yoga at Sports Core with Debbie Williamson and Brian Tellock

2008-09-19T17:33:00.000-07:00

Partner Yoga at Sports Core with Debbie Williamson and Brian Tellock

2008-09-19T17:23:00.000-07:00

Joshua Cobbs, Rocky Horror lead, got his corset ready bod at Midwest Power Yoga!!!!

2008-09-16T23:30:00.000-07:00

The show was amazing and Joshua is a SUPERSTAR! A must see!

Wade Morissette coming to Midwest Power Yoga Appleton, March 6-8, 2009!

2008-08-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

about wade

Wade Imre Morissette was born in Ottawa, Canada, just minutes before his twin sister Alanis. The twins took to music at an early age; Wade studied piano as a child and took on guitar and djembe in his teens, but their paths diverged when Wade began to study yoga.

From the time he was a small child, Wade was in search of a practice that would help him connect to his spirit, trying everything from karate to tai chi. It wasn't until Wade's college roommate handed him a book by the name of The Mystic Path To Cosmic Powers that he decided to dedicate the next decade of his life to learning and teaching yoga, but his musical background would soon resurface.

During one of Wade's many visits to India, he began to travel on the path of Devotional Yoga and started chanting, a process that stills the mind, dissolves worries, and opens the heart. "It's a natural way to tune into the frequency of love," says Wade.

He realized he could combine his two passions--yoga and music--to create his own original blend of indie rock/pop music with Sanskrit and English chants. "My first concerts were in India, and people would come up to me and say that my music touched their hearts. I decided to take my music to different yoga studios across the world," Wade explains.

In 2004, Wade was asked to be an ambassador for Lululemon, the popular yoga-inspired athletic apparel company. At the same time, he had self-released his debut album, Sargam Scales of Music. Wade quickly developed an idea for a world tour to promote both his album and the clothing line; Lululemon immediately signed on as a sponsor. The Lululemon Yoga Pilgrimage kicked off in 2005 and took Wade to Tokyo, Hong Kong and 32 cities in North America and continued on through early 2006 with stops in Thailand, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico. At each stop, Wade spread his message of optimism, well-being, consciousness, and community through Vinyasa Flow workshops, chanting, kirtan (call-and-response singing), and bliss dance.

In the midst of Wade's world traveling, Nettwerk Music Group CEO and yoga enthusiast Terry McBride kept hearing Wade's music in yoga class in Vancouver, but couldn't find the album. The two connected in late 2006, and Wade signed on with Nettwerk Records to release his second album, Strong as Diamonds: Om Vajra Kaya Namaha. While Wade's debut release explores a sense of longing and self-discovery, Strong as Diamonds: Om Vajra Kaya Namaha is less introspective. "This release is more about celebrating, gratitude and lifting one's spirit," says Wade. "It has a lot more energy and it's sunnier, but it's still soulful."

Already making appearances at yoga conferences, retreats and studios around the world, Wade will tour North America this summer in support of the album. At each performance, he begins with bliss dance and ends with a kirtan. Wade, on guitar and harmonium, sings out a phrase; the audience responds until the musicians and audience mesh. He also performs several of his own songs for those who prefer to listen and observe.

Wade has been practicing and teaching yoga for 13 years. He has completed Iyengar, Classical Ashtanga and Ashtanga-Vinyasa yoga teacher training. He has studied Vinyasa, Viniyoga, Anusara, and Kriya yoga, as well as zazen, Vedic Chanting, and active movement and sound meditations with some of the best-known teachers in Canada, North America, and India. He is also a Reiki master, certified Phoenix Rising yoga therapist, and Viniyoga Therapist. He leads teacher trainings, workshops, retreats, and music-dance evenings internationally. He is currently working on his first book, Living Your Joy, and planning a series of motivational seminars.

With features in Yoga Journal and Macleans Magazine and appearances on Entertainment Tonight Canada, BCTV and Toronto's Yoga Series, CTV's E Talk Daily Canada, and CBC Radio in Canada, Wade has established himself as a sought-after yoga instructor and talented musician. He has also been covered by the Vancouver Courier, The Province, Globe and Mail, The Sun and Shared Vision in Vancouver, and his music is heard often on SacredSoundsRadio.com.

Shake Your Asana 8/15/08 Music Provided by Brian Tellock!

2008-08-17T03:34:00.000-07:00

Lori Wenzel Brought Her Class Of School Teachers To Meet Deb Sampson, Yoga Teacher!

2008-08-11T12:40:00.000-07:00

Robin Hertting and Deb Sampson attend kirtan with Krishna Das in Madison!

2008-08-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

Shared Experience - Deborah Williamson's Meditation

2008-08-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hi, Debbie

I want to share my experience during your Meditation this week ... I had no expectations, but the journey was memorable.

Sitting at the edge of the pond, I saw colored, detailed scenes drifing on the surface of the water ... scenes of gatherings of friends, family, trips and adventures, and significant encounters from my past. When we moved on to the lake, I saw my future. Some of the scenes were partially colored, some with a lot of detail, but, of course, not yet completed. Some scenes were sketches through a mist. I saw paths of my present leading to the water's edge ... the paths that are leading to my future. When we moved on to the ocean, it was so peaceful, sunny, warm, comforting ... it was eternity. Then the raft appeared ... and I drifted away into bliss. I felt some disappointment as the raft drifted back to shore and I stepped on the warm sand and walked back past the lake with the visions of my future and past the pond with the visions of my past ... And then I realized that I was a spirit guide returning to a better future.

Wow! Thank you!

3 Week Summer Intensive Teacher Training at Midwest Power Yoga Appleton

2008-08-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

"I loved the 3 week intensive training! For me, I couldn't think of a better way to go through yoga teacher training. You are right there in it, all the time. Any questions you have get answered right away. Any doubts you have are quickly forgotten, you're too busy to waste any time on them. A great experience, doesn't even begin to describe it!"

"Overall this was a great experience. I am left with the good feeling that there is sooooo much more to learn. Thank You! Be prepared to Grow!"

"Everything was awesome! I feel better, stronger, and more confident. I look forward to future trainings and certifications. This has been an amazing opportunity! I'm excited to see where this will lead and what doors will open in the future!"

"I learned so much! School was so much more than the yoga/asana practice. I learned more about myself in 3 weeks than I have in 36 years! Thank you Debbie!"

"This school was not what I expected. I was unaware of the emotional element tied to this training. It was just what I needed to grow and I look forward to my future. Debbie's well rounded approach to everything made the training complete. This training took me to the core of myself - my strengths and weakness taught me to be comfortable outside of my comfort zone."

"MPY teacher training has been intense, beyond my expectations. Wealth of information and skills and practices shared from the heart! High level of education combined with dedication to yoga and students and teachers."

MPY in Costa Rica

2008-07-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

MPY in Costa Rica

2008-07-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

Gregor Singleton Master Baptiste Teacher taught to a "SOLD OUT" crowd of yogi's at Midwest Power Yoga - Appleton

2008-07-24T06:31:00.000-07:00

Summer Yoga Teacher Training has begun! (Week One)

2008-07-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

Comments from the teacher training journal:

Day 1:

"Do your homework, and breathe."

"I can't believe I was video taped teaching Sun A the first night!"

"Homework? Homework."

"I will learn the lyrics and the music of yoga."

Day 2:

"Zombies don't scare me."

"What hips? - ha, ha!"

"Ahhhhh, I have hips."

"Down Dog! Down Dog!"

"Intense, good day."

"I Love Hips!"

"Loved the Hips and Whore, I mean Horror."

Day 3

"Get out of your head and onto your mat."

"Yogi's are a courageous people."

"Be Memorable!"

"Purpose instead of momentum."
"Be Big!"
"Breathe - Regroup - Forward"

Day 4
"Two more days and I'm going to be gnarly."
"Coming to Yoga Class drunk is not an option." - Robin talking about yoga as a dance.
"Surrender"
"I was overwhelmed."
"I'm hanging in there."
"I'm glad to be back."
"Grateful for the review time."

Day 5
"Can I sweat any more?"
"You kicked my Asana."
"This was a good day - A very good day."
"I think positive thoughts - I know I can."
"Put out good thoughts and good will eventually come."
"Lots of good energy, good people, good will."

Day 6
"Imperfections are okay and shareable."

Tornado in Kohler, WI

2008-07-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

WEDNESDAY, July 16, 2008, 3:48 p.m.

Tornado warning for Sheboygan County

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Sheboygan County until 4 p.m.

At 3:41 p.m., a tornado was reported by the public near Kohler moving east at 55 mph.

Master Baptiste Certified Teacher, Gregor Singleton, returning for his annual Midwest Power Yoga visit!

2008-07-11T08:07:00.000-07:00

Gregor is so excited about his weekend with us, July 18 and 19 that his feet still haven't touched the ground.

These pictures were taken at Feathered Pipe Ranch in Montana, where Deb Sampson and Jan Marnocha completed their Level 2 Teacher Training with Baron in June 2008.

You may have noticed the video camera in some of their classes. Deb and Jan have completed their final phase of their Baptiste certification and their applications are in the mail. Well done!

Moses Master Class and "I Love Yoga"

2008-07-11T07:44:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful visit with Moses creating an environment to share our love of yoga practice and together nurturing the divine light within. The practice was quite "juicy" and very powerful with the backdrop of rain and thunder. Don't forget the shopping! See our group photo wearing our new "I Love Yoga" clothes.

Thank You! Moses for a beautiful night!

We can't wait for the Yoga Bus Tour!!!

Preview of Debbie Williamson at Salon CTI on Fox 11 Monday Morning Makeover

2008-07-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

The Yoga Makeover:

Inner beauty is the champion within us all, to rise, to fall, to seek, to stand, to love. We all have a soul and our soul is the rarest form of beauty.

We are always on a quest for the discovery of infinite possibilities. Josif and his staff at CTI, spend time to get to know who you are, your way of being, and how you live your life. Their gift is to expose you to the possibility of current trends, helping you look and feel your best, but most of all, allowing your inner beauty, or your inner light, to shine bright!

A well-tended, well-loved face and body is the best canvas for the soul's expression.

Yogi Josif:

Wait until you see the video! Guiding you through Debbie's transformation, see Josif in full lotus (padmasana) pose!

See the Makeover Video at Salon CTI

So....I'm not crazy! Werewolf sightings in WI.

2008-07-05T17:19:00.000-07:00

MonsterQuest : American Werewolf Airs on Saturday July 05 07:00 PM

The werewolf is a centuries-old legend based on myth, not a real animal. However, local eyewitnesses in Wisconsin and Michigan report seeing a dogman--a tall hairy man-beast. Professional hunters and trackers armed with tranquilizer guns will be deployed in an area of recent sightings to find this creature. For the first time polygraphs and hypnosis will be used on eyewitnesses with astonishing results. One-part history, one-part science and one part monster, discover he truth behind legendary monsters.

When will I learn?

2008-07-05T11:17:00.001-07:00

Festival Foods? Copps? So many cars and I'm not in the mood to stand in line. Favorite veggie sandwich place? Closed. I went through the McDonald's Drive-thru as a last resort for the advertised Southwest Salad.

One bite, and I find this piece of metal? I took the salad back and guess what? It was the piece from the shake machine that they were searching for all morning. Apparently, they washed the shake machine and then rinsed the lettuce in the same sink. When the lettuce was scooped up to prepare the salads, so was the missing part that was left in the sink.

I think it's Copps Tomato Basil Soup for dinner!

MPY School Graduate opens Studio in Plymouth, WI

2008-06-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

Reel Yoga, LLC officially opened in May 2008 and is owned by Sue Rathsack of Plymouth, WI.

Sue began her yoga journey in 2001. She has practiced a variety of yoga styles, including Anusara, Bikram, Baptiste, Hatha and Vinyasa. She completed her yoga teaching certification (CYT) at Midwest Power Yoga in Appleton, Wisconsin, graduating in December 2007. Sue has also been teaching at the Sportscore in Kohler and at Inspire Yoga Studio in Sheboygan. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance of Clinton, Maryland.

With the never-ending support of her husband, Tom and their two children, Sue has been able to bring her whole self and heart to each individual class and looks forward to sharing her knowledge with others. This is what has led to the opening of Reel YOGA, LLC in Plymouth in May 2008!

The Optimist's Creed - from Robin's Class

2008-06-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

written by C. D. Larson that is as follows:

The Optimist's Creed

*To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

*To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person you meet.

*To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

*To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

*To think only of the best, and expect only the best.

*To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

*To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

*To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

*To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

*To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

Warriors of Light - Written by Joseph after attending L2 in Montana

2008-06-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

Warriors of Light

We are all mirrors capable of reflecting light
its in all of us during the day or late into the night.
Our ability to shine is to rise above the battle in our minds,
like 100 billion stars in the darkest nights sky.
Its not something you have to fear you know, not with this family of light, not even if you walk alone into the deepest darkest night.

Oh, sweet Montana, gold in the earth and light in the sky
where we all found the courage to defy our own lie.
The rain, snow and sunshine can leave a man blind,
but high on the mountaintop we left the world behind.
The time is here, the time is never gone,
to raise our sails high and sing our favorite song.
Warriors of light, you do God’s work, for I am forever inspired,
like beams of light burning near Shiva’s ring of fire.
We help people be real even when its uncomfortable,
for changing the world will not seem so impossible.
The river of life will continue to flow,
as the great bald eagle circles the unknown.
When life gets you down and you have a hard time feeling blessed,
reach out, lift your heart and shout to the universe, “YES”

Joseph Lauricella - owner of Baptiste Affiliate Studio - Arizona Power Yoga and a favorite assistant!

Midwest Power Yoga - Green Bay coming soon!

2008-06-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

We are finalizing the details of our new home to serve the Green Bay area. Krissy Zegers, owner of MPY - Green Bay has found a beautiful space in historic De Pere. The upper level space can support 46 mat spaces, changing area, restroom, large retail boutique space and conveniently located near St. Norbert's and the beautiful waterfront. We will keep you posted on our progress! Opening estimated for mid-July and Grand Opening Celebration in September.

Some familiar faces may be seen on SHOWTIME!

2008-06-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

JUNE 22nd at 11:30pm and every Sunday night thereafter for 14 weeks my new show will air on Showtime! "I Can't Believe I'm Still Single From Portland To Portland" -Eric Shaeffer

This series was filmed as a book tour documentary and began it's journey at Julie Parler's wedding in Maine. Debbie, Robin, and Kellie Lin attended the wedding with many friends from the Baptiste community.

For More Info Click Here!

Duncan in Lululemon ad on back cover of Yoga Journal Magazine!!!!

2008-06-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

Duncan assisted Baron at our recent Baptiste Level 2 teacher training in Montana.

Duncan Peak

Power Living Australia

+61 2 9904 4874

info@powerliving.com.au

www.powerliving.com.au

Duncan has over 10 years’ experience in leadership and personal development. His background includes being an Officer in the elite Parachute Regiment of the Australian Army and a successful business consultant in corporate Australasia. In the last 5 years, he has devoted himself to teaching Yoga in Australia and overseas. The only Australian Baptiste Power Vinyasa Master Teacher, Duncan regularly assists world-renowned Yoga and Fitness Guru, Baron Baptiste on his teacher trainings across the globe.
Duncan will tell you that Yoga transformed his life. He is proud to speak about creating a healthy body, reconditioning thought patterns to originate and end from a place of compassion and how he began find a great love, peace and acceptance within himself.

He passionately believes this type of transformation and personal revolution is available to us all. All we have to do is show up, do the work on ourselves and the Universe conspires to bring us what we need in life.

Duncan owns Power Living Australia, one of Sydney’s busiest Yoga studios and home of the highly successful program, 40 Days to Personal Revolution, an intensive 6-week course of yoga, meditation, nutrition and self-discovery.

In 2007, Duncan developed the first yoga teacher-training course accredited by Fitness Australia for fitness industry professionals looking for a different way to connect with their clients. The course runs several times a year and in 2008 Power Living will offer a 200-hour Yoga Alliance approved Power Yoga teacher training program.

Duncan runs several weekend and weeklong yoga retreats each year as well as regular workshops on the fundamentals of Power Yoga. His first DVD, Power Yoga, was released in October 2007.

Paul Grilley at Midwest Yoga Conference

2008-06-05T03:58:00.000-07:00

Kris and Robin attended Paul's Yin Intensive at the Midwest Yoga Conference in IL. "Hooooooooooooooowwwwwww much longer are we going to be in this pose?!"

40 Days to Personal Revolution Testimonial

2008-05-23T08:22:00.000-07:00

Debbie,

Thank you for being my guide through the 40 days. It does not feel like something is ending. It feels like something is beginning.

Two years ago, a friend gave me a beautiful journal as a gift. I have been carrying it around for two years and not writing anything in it – I have gone through a lot in the past two years and could not get to the point of looking at most of it in writing.

As I got to this week, I have a powerful sense that the next phase or my life is about to kick off – I don’t know what it is (which makes my spouse crazy) but I feel that it is probably going to be a major part of my life going forward. I think that 40 days brought this to the surface. Last night the journal came out and I believe the writing is about to begin.

I enjoy the MWP more than I can ever express.
You all have been a blessing in my life.

Thank you.

Dave Farmar at MPY Podcast

2008-05-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

Dave Farmar at MPY podcast

Click on this link to go to iTunes or go to www.davefarmar.com

Robin and Debbie at Fenway: Brewers vs Red Sox

2008-05-18T07:23:00.000-07:00

Debbie - Guest Speaker at Yoga Journal Conference in Boston

2008-05-18T06:58:00.000-07:00

Friday, May 16 2008

Business Intensive

3:45pm–4:45pm
Marketing Your Business
Debbie Williamson, founder/owner, Midwest Power Yoga, LLC

Learn what makes your business different from the rest—and how to position yourself in this competitive market.

Baptiste Yoga is Alive and Well in Houston!

2008-05-12T12:20:00.000-07:00

I've just returned from teaching at Yoga Ananda in Houston. Maria Merrill has a beautiful studio and a wonderful Baptiste community! If you are ever in the Houston area, it's definitely worth making time to take a class with Maria. I will be returning this summer to assist Maria with expanding her programming to include some great workshops, guest teachers and a new 200 Hr Yoga Alliance Teacher Training Certification Program. Check out her website for great classes and upcoming programs.

May MPY All Day Bootcamp Photos

2008-05-05T06:36:00.000-07:00

More from Pura Vida

2008-04-26T04:37:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on the zip line Friday and our travel companions may not have been monkeys, but they kept us safe and provided lots of wet kisses.

We are already planning our next vacation to Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Pura Vida

2008-04-24T11:43:00.001-07:00

We are having a wonderful time! We all went to the Waterfall Gardens and explored butterfly gardens, orchid gardens, and even a monkey house. On Wednesday, many of us rafted down class 4 rapids, and got quite sunburned. Meta did fly out of the boat and needed a rescue, which was an adrenaline rush and completely safe with our guides. Robin and Debbie were lead on the boat.

At lunch, Robin, Meta and Laurie all held a red poison dart frog! Others had a nice shopping trip and spa services during the day.

Friday we are doing the jungle canopy zip line. We are a little bummed, because Wednesday's group got attacked by monkey's. We are going to a different part of the Country, where we probably won't see monkey's.

The picture of the road sign looks like it said squirrel and you will need to ask Robin why squirrel makes her laugh.

And yes, we did some yoga!

Costa Rica this week for MPY!

2008-04-14T18:39:00.001-07:00

Photos and Videos from a past trip to Costa Rica.

Sunday Meditation offered by Erika

2008-04-14T09:29:00.000-07:00

Heart Centered Meditaion:

Close your eyes. Take a deep breath, hold it in and tense up every muscle you can. Exhale and release the tension.

Repeat this twice more, making three breath/tensions in total.

Visualize your muscles becoming relaxed and saturated with a brilliant, white light.

Start at your toes and work your way up to the top of your head, pay particular attention to the shoulders, jaw and facial area, and any other area that may be causing you particular concern. All the while taking gentle, deep breaths.

If you hear sounds such as cars passing by, people talking, dogs barking etc. Just let these sounds pass over you. Do not judge these sounds, simply allow them to occur and fade away, all the while taking gentle deep breaths.

When you feel sufficiently relaxed, draw your attention to your chest area, and visualize a tiny ball of light that rests half inside and half outside the center of your chest.

This ball of light can be any colour that feels comfortable to you, I personally use the color pink or blue flecked with brilliant gold. This ball of light starts out tiny, but expands gradually with every inhalation and every exhalation.

Continue to visualize for this meditation so that the ball grows larger and larger, all the while producing a greater feeling of loving peace and calm.

Allow the ball of light to grow as large as you feel comfortable with.

This ball is a ball of healing love-energy. Allow the ball to move to wherever you need healing in your body.

You can direct the ball or allow it to move by itself. If you have a loved one that needs healing or love, who may be emotionally troubled, you can send this ball of love-energy to this person in your mind.

Visualize the ball leaving the room and traveling to the person in need. Or you can allow the ball to leave of its own accord, it will travel to someone who needs your love-energy. Or you can simply bring the ball back into your body.

When you feel that the meditation has finished, gradually and gently bring your attention back to your surroundings, and slowly open your eyes.

Your Path...

2008-04-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

If it seems like everything is coming at you, maybe you're in the wrong lane.

Shake Your Asana Track List for 3-28-08

2008-04-11T18:48:00.001-07:00

30 Little Words Strung Together

2008-04-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

Your beliefs become your thoughts.
Your thoughts become your words.
Your words become your actions.
Your actions become your habits.
Your habits become your values.
Your values become your destiny.

Mahatma Gandhi

more 108...

2008-03-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

what a great learning experience.
about the mind, about the body, about my life.
i will try to continue as it's really become an integral part of my day.
my home practice has changed dramatically...
i'm more relaxed on what my definition of "yoga" is.
i also realized that the process is what is important, not the goal....
so while the "108 days" gave me something to shoot for....
what i've learned along the way has been more important than the end result.
here's to the next 108 days :)

Chakra Color Meditation - Erika's Teacher Training Meditation

2008-03-19T05:33:00.000-07:00

Visualize a beautiful rainbow above your head filled with every color you can imagine. Pull down the color red from your rainbow. Allow the red to bathe the body, filling every cell, every atom until every part of you and surroundings become red.

Pull down the color orange. Allow this beautiful color to fill your body with its magnificent light.

Next pull down the color yellow; the gorgeous color of the warm sun. Fill the body and surroundings with yellow.

Allow the color green to enter the body now. Filling every cell of the body with this beautiful hue; the color of grass, the color of the trees. Allow the healing power of the color of green to embrace you fully.

Visualize the color blue. Allow the blue to bathe your throat chakra; your area of communication and speech. See gorgeous blue mist filling the area, cleansing, rejuvenating the chakra.

See the color purple filling the third eye point; the area of your brow between the eyes. See this color, like a perfect plum, filling the entire body with purple light energy. Release the purple now and fill the body with light from your higher power. Your source.

Fill the body with awesome bright white light. Allow the light to embrace you fully........cleansing the body of pain, stress or fatigue. Slowly open with eyes and come back to this place in time. Fully relaxed, fully renewed.

Walking/Box Meditation - Manda's Favorite!

2008-03-19T05:28:00.000-07:00

Take a current problem or situation in your life which you need answers for. Place the issue in a box (can either visualize a box or literally place one there) infront of you.

Begin to walk in a circle around the box; concentrating on lifting the foot, placing the foot down, putting pressure on the foot as you take a step.(This gives the ego a job to do - the process of walking)

Walk to the North....Imagine/meditate on what the situation would be like from someone else's perspective (maybe someone you know).

Now walk to the East. Meditate on the situation without you in it. Noting any opinions which arise.

Now walk to the South. Examine the situation from a strangers point of view. Meditate on this.

Now walk to the West. Imagine what would happen if you did not do anything about the situation. Notice what comes up.

This is an awesome meditation to attach to journaling. Take a few moments and journal your experience (either after each compass point or at the end of the meditation). The process will bring you clarity, peace of mind and a solution to your problem!

2008-03-18T05:17:00.000-07:00

Our 108 day journey is wrapping up for most you. Here's the feedback coming in...

"I feel my new muscles and my new sense of groundedness and commitment. I have also found a way into my own consistent yoga practice."

"I have noticed an increase in flexibility and strength in my overall conditioning. I now consider it a key part to my training and competing in triathlons and various other competitions."

"Yoga practice for 108 days has given me the ability to distinguish between the foods that fuel my body. On my mat each day, I learned what the day before manifested in body."

"I find myself looking forward to my practice time every day. I'm not sure I want to ever take a break."

"I’m not going to stop. I can’t. My practice is a part of my life now!"

"I skipped a few days, because life happens, but my practice is averaging 6 times a week. That's double what I did before!"

"I did it! I did it!"

"365 for me, I'm not stopping."

"I practiced my yoga everyday, even if it meant meditating in the car when i got to work for a few minutes and taking tree or a ragdoll in my office. Maybe I didn't practice an hour each day, but my life has changed with yoga practice as focus each day."

"Where's the cake? Let's celebrate!"

Brian's Playlist for my Shake Your Asana Class

2008-03-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

Thank you Brian for your efforts. The music was a hit!

Partner Yoga Valentine's Weekend

2008-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Universal Prayer and Universal Soup

2008-02-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

Prayer

May all of the wicked return to good;
May all who are good obtain true peace.
May all who are peaceful be freed from bonds;
May all who are free set others free.

Blessings upon all the people on earth;
May all the world's rulers uphold what is right.
May only good fortune befall everyone;
May all world's creatures obtain happiness.

May the rain fall when the earth is thirsty;
May all the storehouses be filled with grain.
May everyone here be free from harm;
May all who are good be free from fear.

May everyone know a life of joy;
May everyone live a life of health.
May everyone see only good in this world;
May everyone soon be released from pain.

May everyone overcome all their woes;
May everyone see only good in this world.
May everyone realize all their desires;
May everyone everywhere be glad.

May our mother and father be blessed;
Blessings upon every creature on earth.
May our works flourish and aid everyone,
And long may our eyes see the sun.

Miso Soup

Boil 1 cup vegetable broth
Boil 1 cup water
2 tsp Miso paste when done boiling
Silken or baked diced tofu
Green onions
Cock sauce for spicy (Sriracha-red bottle)

Valentine's Card - Favorite Studio

2008-02-16T05:32:00.001-08:00

More Food For Thought And Dessert

2008-02-15T14:31:00.000-08:00

Grapes cure headaches!
Prunes make you poop!
Azuki beans heal kidneys!
Cucumbers and peppers make you burp!
Pickles make you pucker!
Bulgar makes you vulgar.

Lokaha Samastaha Sukino Bhavantu - May all the Beings in all the worlds Be Happy.

Happiness is Dessert

Chocolate Pudding
1 12oz package of silken tofu
1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 cup chocolate chips
Blend, chill and serve in fancy glasses

What's For Dinner? Cooking 101

2008-02-14T14:03:00.000-08:00

How To Prepare a Meal

Where's my protein coming from?
How am I going to make it taste good?
Add alliums (garlic, onions, shallots, leeks)
Herbs and spices (fresh tomato w/basil
Extras (wine, vinegar, soy sauce, broth)
Texture (nuts, sesame seeds)
How's it going to look? (feast with your eyes first - add color)
How much time will it take?

Black Bean and Corn Salad (Great on Tortillas)

Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Cook onion 3-5 minutes, or until soft. Add garlic, and cook 1 minute, or until translucent and fragrant.
Stir in beans, chili powder and 1 cup water. Reduce heat to medium low, and simmer 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat. Mash beans until mixture is thickened but still chunky, and some beans remain whole. Stir in 1 cup salsa and corn, and season with salt and pepper. Cool.
Preheat oven to 425F. Coat 2 large baking sheets with cooking spray. Spoon 1/3 cup black bean mixture down center of tortilla. Roll tortilla around filling, and secure closed with toothpick. Set on prepared baking sheet. Bake 6 to 10 minutes, or until tortillas are browned and crisp.
Meanwhile, combine cilantro and remaining salsa in small bowl. Place 2 tortillas on each plate and top with remaining salsa.

What? Chili
Protein? Beans
Taste? Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil
Spices? Chili Powder, Cilantro
Texture and Color? Corn
Time? Prepared Salsa (Emeril's Specialty Salsa)

Let Your Light Shine

2008-02-12T13:23:00.000-08:00

As you know, I can't tell jokes and I'm terrible at memorizing quotes. Last week in class, I mentioned that letting our light shine, gives others permission to do the same. Some of you were reminded of a speech by Nelson Mandela. Actually, Nelson Mandela typically gets the credit, but the class theme really came from Marianne Williamson. Her book, A Return to Love, is one of my favorites.

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” ----from A Return to Love, by Marianne Williamson.

What's For Lunch?

2008-02-08T06:44:00.001-08:00

During our 40 Days to Personal Revolution Program, with the added resource of the Three Season Diet, we looked at lunch as our main meal and actually our largest meal of the day. Breakfast and supper were large enough to get to lunch or bed without hunger pangs. The goal was to skip supper all together and be able to eat two meals a day without experiencing hunger or food cravings. Supper is to be considered a supplement. If you're feeling uncomfortable about two meals a day eat a light salad or have soup for your evening meal before 6pm.

A favorite:

Cucumber Sandwich

2 thick slices whole wheat bread
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
6 slices cucumber
2 tablespoons alfalfa sprouts
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1 tomato, sliced
1 leaf lettuce
1/2 avocado, mashed

Spread each slice of bread with 1 tablespoon cream cheese. On one slice of bread, arrange cucumber slices in a single layer. Cover with sprouts, then sprinkle with oil and vinegar. Layer tomato slices, lettuce. Spread other slice of bread with mashed avocado. Close sandwich and serve immediately.

Mamma Mia Cast Practicing at MPY

2008-02-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

Don't be surprised if you see some new faces in our noon classes at the Appleton Studio. Mamma Mia is performing at the Appleton PAC this week and Midwest Power Yoga continues to be a favorite stopping place on the road for the traveling Broadway Shows!

Check out the show!
Mamma Mia!
February 5-10, 2008
Tue - Fri 7:30 p.m.; Sat 2:00 p.m. / 7:30 p.m.
Sun 1:00 p.m. / 6:30 p.m.

Living to 100

2008-02-05T14:21:00.000-08:00

There's no reason to believe that you will not live to 100, if you are in reasonable health today. Many of you currently use the 40 Days Program to Personal Revolution, which has been life changing. Here are some of our favorite sites to compliment 40 Days and provide additional infomation on how to turn back time:

How to Live to be 100 Years (as seen on Oprah)

Check out the 14-day plan to get you started with tips, quizzes, shopping lists and action steps that will prepare your mind and body to make lasting changes.

John Doulliard's Longevity Therapy

This is a great site with tools to find your imbalances, print seasonal grocery lists and a number or articles regarding treatments for common ailments.

Power of Patience

2008-02-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

Today in Debbie's classes she shared her practice of patience. Becoming more patient can help you be more effective, less overwhelmed, less worried and angry, kinder, calmer, more tolerant, more loving and more lovable.

Learn the art of patience. Apply discipline to your thoughts when they become anxious over the outcome of a goal. Impatience breeds anxiety, fear, discouragement and failure. Patience creates confidence, decisiveness, and a rational outlook, which eventually leads to success.
Brian Adams

A handful of patience is worth more than a bushel of brains.
Dutch Proverb

Our patience will achieve more than our force.
Edmund Burke

It is very strange that the years teach us patience - that the shorter our time, the greater our capacity for waiting.
Elizabeth Taylor

There art two cardinal sins from which all others spring: Impatience and Laziness.
Franz Kafka

Patience has its limits. Take it too far, and it's cowardice.
George Jackson

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.
Helen Keller

If I have ever made any valuable discoveries, it has been owing more to patient attention, than to any other talent.
Isaac Newton

Patience serves as a protection against wrongs as clothes do against cold. For if you put on more clothes as the cold increases, it will have no power to hurt you. So in like manner you must grow in patience when you meet with great wrongs, and they will then be powerless to vex your mind.
Leonardo da Vinci

I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end.
Margaret Thatcher

Out Beyond Ideas...

2008-01-30T16:45:00.000-08:00

Many of you commented on the Rumi poem Robin shared in class this week.
The best way to fully say in words Rumi's impact, is that he has the ability to describe the indescribable, ineffable - God.

Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing,

there is a field. I'll meet you there.

When the soul lies down in that grass,

the world is too full to talk about.

Ideas, language, even the phrase each other

doesn't make any sense.

Anyway - From Mother Theresa

2008-01-30T07:18:00.000-08:00

One of our students shared a favorite poem with us this week.

Mother Theresa hung a copy of this poem on a wall of the orphanage she founded in Calcutta.
Its source is unknown.

People are often unreasonable,
illogical and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,
People may accuse you
of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,
you will win some false friends and
some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis.
it is between you and God;
It is never between you and them anyway.

Yoga Day USA Raised $300 for The Africa Yoga Project

2008-01-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

Robin taught an amazing Long, Slow, Deep class to 24 participants. The Appleton studio celebrated it's 4th anniversary and there were door prizes and cake.

$300 was raised by participant donations and an MPY studio match for The Africa Yoga Project. Thank you to all who participated!

Thank You Cards Coming Soon

2008-01-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

Jan dropped off gifts of food and art supplies, including watercolors, brushes and blank postcards for my days of rest. Today, I tried my hand at watercolor, with the Lifetime Movie Network as my muse in the background. I have no idea what I'm doing, but I thought I'd share my creations. Thank you all again for your support. Cards will be in the mail soon!