Article

Cleaning Out The Closet & Staying With The Heart

My dear Global Yoga Community,

This weekend I found myself in a state of total confusion, overwhelm and the need of finding again more of a direction in my life.
I couldn’t come up with anything particular to write about, so I started to clean out me closet. Wow, I love the process! It clears and creates space inside and out.

I always felt a profound connection between the external environment and my internal state of mind and emotions. I realized combining decluttering our physical space with the practice of staying attuned to my emotions and aspirations, it creates a powerful synergy that can facilitate personal growth and transformation.

Clearing out our place allows us to create space for new opportunities and experiences, while staying connected to our hearts. It helps us to navigate the journey with authenticity and purpose to support our holistic well-being and the manifestation of a more fulfilling life.

Cleaning out the closet
Most likely all of you have felt in your own life that decluttering and organizing can have a surprisingly powerful effect on our mental well-being. While a cluttered space can create a sense of chaos, overwhelm and can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety, tidying up and removing unnecessary items will promotes a sense of calm and clarity.
As we physically clear out the clutter, it can also symbolize letting go of emotional baggage or mental clutter, allowing us to feel lighter and more focused.

Staying with the heart
This is the importance of staying connected to our emotions, intuition, and innermost desires. Manifesting new things in life often begins with a deep understanding of what truly matters to us on a personal level. When we tune into our hearts and align our actions with our values and passions, we can set meaningful intentions and goals that resonate with our authentic selves.
This process involves listening to our inner voice, trusting our instincts, and cultivating a sense of openness and vulnerability.

While I actually don’t need help cleaning out my closets, I guess germans have that in their genes (lol)
I know not everybody is this way, so here is a website or hire me 😉
When I have a strong desire or passion for something I have been fairly good in manifesting. I certainly need clarity for it. I enjoyed reading this article.

Monday 13.05.
“Killing you” softly
Slow Flow

Wednesday 15.05.
Detox Wring
Flow

Thursday 16.05.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 17.05.
Flow into the Weekend
Flow

Monday 20.05.
Welcome to “Boot Camp”
Flow

Wednesday 22.05.
Feel Your Heart’s Desire
Blind Flow

Thursday 23.05.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 24.05.
Clarity through Grounding
Flow

I am looking forward to infuse more strength, grounding and stability in our body for the next two weeks!

Love,

Nicole



  • Comments Off on Cleaning Out The Closet & Staying With The Heart
  • Filed under: body, mind, soul, yoga
Article

Intention & Attention Make A Perfect Pair

My dear Global Yoga Community,

You are probably wondering where I am getting at with the title and then that photo. How about replacing “someone’s” with “your” and let your innocent heart lead the way!
To care enough about yourself to pay attention and place your attention on one area at a time in your life that you feel, needs some love. By setting an intention for the outcome or change you like to see in that area you strengthen the pact. Together, they form a dynamic duo that helps us navigate the complexities of everyday life and pursue our aspirations with purpose and clarity.

Intention is the mental state or cognitive process involved in forming a purpose or goal. It’s the driving force behind our actions, guiding us toward specific outcomes or desired states. When we have a clear intention, we have a direction or purpose in mind, which serves as a blueprint for our behavior.

Attention, on the other hand, is the cognitive process of selectively concentrating on one aspect of the environment while ignoring others. It’s like a spotlight that focuses our awareness on particular stimuli, thoughts, or activities. Attention allows us to filter out distractions and hone in on what’s relevant to our current goals or interests.

Intention provides the motivation and purpose behind our actions, because attention without intention is meaningless. 
On the other hand our attention guides us along the path toward realizing our intentions.
Attention takes place in the present, and intention concerns itself with the future.

Monday 29.04.
Intention & Attention
Flow

Wednesday 01.05.
Intention & Attention
Flow

Thursday 02.05.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 03.05.
Intention & Attention
Slow Flow

Monday 06.05.
Intention & Attention
Flow

Wednesday 08.05.
Intention & Attention
Slow Flow

Thursday 09.05.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 10.05.
Intention & Attention
Flow

I would love for you to be a part of the creating process of the classes the next two weeks. Send me message where you would like to have your attention placed on 🙂

Love,

Nicole

Article

Interplay Of Joy Of Life & Perception

My dear Global Yoga Community,

The interplay between the joy of life and perception is intricate and multifaceted, shaping our experiences and attitudes towards the world around us. Here’s how these two concepts intersect:

Joy of Life
The joy of life refers to an inherent sense of happiness, fulfillment, and appreciation for existence. It encompasses feelings of gratitude, wonder, and enthusiasm for the experiences life has to offer. When we possess a strong joy of life, we often find beauty and meaning in even the simplest moments and are inclined to approach life with optimism and openness.

Perception
Perception refers to how we interpret and make sense of the world around us based on our sensory experiences, beliefs, attitudes, and past experiences. Our perception influences how we interpret events, situations, and interactions, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in response.

Feedback Loop
There is a cyclical relationship between the joy of life and perception. A positive perception can enhance the joy of life, leading to increased happiness and satisfaction, which in turn reinforces a positive perception. Similarly, cultivating joy in life can positively influence perception, leading to a more optimistic and appreciative outlook.

Practices such as mindfulness and self-awareness can help us become more attuned to our perceptions and cultivate a greater sense of joy in life. Overall, the interplay between the joy of life and perception underscores the importance of cultivating a positive mindset, embracing gratitude, and nurturing a deep appreciation for the richness and beauty of life’s experiences. By consciously shaping our perception and fostering joy in life, we can enhance our overall well-being and find greater fulfillment in the journey of existence.

Monday 15.04.
(S)wing it
Flow

Wednesday 17.04.
Ripples & Waves
Slow Flow

Thursday 18.04.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 19.04.
Let’s Twist Again
Flow

Monday 22.04.
Gratitude
Slow Flow

Wednesday 24.04.
Intension
Flow

Thursday 25.04.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 26.04.
Midline
Flow

This is where my inspiration lays at the moment 🙂
Does it resonate with you?

Love,

Nicole

Article

Radical Self-Love & Self-Acceptance

My dear Global Yoga Community,

“Radical self-love and self-acceptance” is a powerful concept of embracing oneself wholly and unconditionally.  All of this is not new to us, but to put into action becomes a different story.
I recently read this quote and it touched me deeply, because it is simple and to the point.

“My arms grew tired from constantly reaching,
so I wrapped them around myself
and allowed them to rest”


Self-Love
Self-love involves nurturing a deep appreciation, care, and compassion for oneself. It means recognizing one’s worth, acknowledging strengths and weaknesses, and treating oneself with kindness and respect. Self-love involves prioritizing self-care practices that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It also entails setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and making choices that align with personal values and goals.

Radical Self-Love
Radical self-love takes the concept of self-love a step further by advocating for a fierce, unapologetic, and unwavering love for oneself. It challenges societal norms, stereotypes, and expectations that may hinder individuals from fully embracing and celebrating their authentic selves. Radical self-love encourages individuals to reclaim their power, embrace their uniqueness, and reject harmful narratives or standards that promote self-doubt or self-criticism.

Self-Acceptance
Self-acceptance involves embracing oneself fully, including both strengths and weaknesses, without judgment or comparison to others. It means acknowledging and embracing one’s flaws, imperfections, and vulnerabilities as essential parts of the human experience. Self-acceptance allows individuals to let go of unrealistic expectations and embrace their authentic selves. It fosters a sense of inner peace, authenticity, and empowerment.

Combining radical self-love and self-acceptance creates a transformative mindset that promotes inner harmony, resilience, and empowerment. It encourages individuals to celebrate their uniqueness, cultivate a positive relationship with themselves, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence and grace. Embracing radical self-love and self-acceptance can lead to profound personal growth, increased self-confidence, and a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy in life.

After all one can say it is a process! 🙂

Monday 01.04.
Kindness & Respect
Slow Flow

Wednesday 03.04.
Acknowledge Strengths & Weaknesses
Flow

Thursday 04.04.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 05.04.
Inner Peace
Flow

Monday 08.04.
Embrace your Flaw’s & Imperfections
Flow

Wednesday 10.04.
Celebrate your Authentic Self
Flow

Thursday 11.04.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 12.04.
Joy of Life
Slow Flow

All emotions are welcomed and embraced!

Love,

Nicole

Article

Finding The Balance Of Strength & Flexibility

My dear Global Yoga Community,

After more than a decade of teaching yoga I am still meeting people saying “I am not good in yoga – I am not flexible or I am too stiff”. My usual response is “one more reason to start yoga”.
I recently came across these quotes and they inspired me to write about it.

“Flexibility comes from letting go of where you think you should be and embracing where you are.”
~ Deborah Adele

“Remember, it doesn’t matter how deep into a posture you go – what does matter is who you are when you get there.”
~ Max Strom

It comes back to the mindset in which you approach your
yoga practice.
Mental flexibility will become your strength on and off the mat. When faced with challenges or obstacles, with flexible minds we are better equipped to overcome them, find solutions, and maintain a positive outlook.
After all, a rigid mindset, pushing through barriers and constantly challenging ourselves physically and mentally will lead to depletion and some form of emptiness.

By achieving the balance between flexibility and strength in our body we find more comfort in the body, less injuries and a sense of
well-being.
Yoga is not about how flexible we are or what we can do. It is about doing it and making it a healthy habit in your life. Showing up for ourselves, becoming more and more aware of what our needs are and honoring it. Becoming authentic and the best version of ourselves.

Wednesday 20.03.
Embrace where you are
Flow

Thursday 22.03.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 22.03.
Finding your depth
Slow Flow

Monday 25.03.
Strength below – Freedom on top
Flow

Wednesday 27.03.
Balance
Slow Flow

Thursday 28.03.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 29.03.
Three Breaths
Flow

Let’s welcome spring with finding more balance!

Love,

Nicole



Article

You Don’t Pay Love Back; You Pay It Forward

@boanergesjr

My dear Global Yoga Community,

I don’t know if you saw the movie “Pay it forward” (2000); it is one of my favorite movies of all times.
Looking at the world today this mindset and forward thinking approach seems to me more valid and valuable than ever for humanity and to see it change.

“Our brains are wired for connection, but trauma rewires them for protection.”
~ Ryan North

So if we all overcome our traumas and tap back into our nature to connect with each other, we would live the change we want to see in the world.

People became to private, narcissistic and afraid to share their traumas. They are missing the magic that happens when light is shed onto the darkness by speaking about the wounds. When everybody would reach out beyond their comfort zone with simple acts of kindness and love, the world would feel a shift. It doesn’t need to go as far as taking in a homeless person, but maybe something you may have not considered yet or haven’t done in a long time for a someone you don’t know.
It starts with holding a door open for someone, let a car pass ahead of you, a friendly smile and word to a stranger.
This implies that we consciously see and acknowledge each other on the street, in the store or wherever else. That itself seems almost revolutionary these days.

This community is so kind and generous which is one of the reasons I love you all so much. You all are there for each other and the people around you.
Can we all take it a step further? Maybe you do already!

Monday 26.02.
Be the Change
Flow

Wednesday 28.02.
Be the Change
Slow Flow

Thursday 29.02.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 01.03.
Be the Change
Flow

Monday 04.03.
Be the Change
Slow Flow

Wednesday 06.03.
Be the Change
Flow

Thursday 07.03.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 08.03.
Be the Change
Flow

Just like intentions, change is a process! One step at a time that we may all become butterflies one day 🙂

Love,

Nicole

Article

My Thoughts On The Month Of Love

My dear Global Yoga Community,

I don’t believe in one day or month of Love – ideally it is the driving force of our daily life!
It should be a guiding principle that influences our thoughts and actions throughout the entire year.

By making love a daily practice, it becomes a fundamental aspect of our interactions with others. It implies conscious acts of kindness, compassion, and understanding towards ourselves and others. If me are making it a consistent habit, it is contributing to a positive and nurturing environment.

By prioritizing love, we are better equipped to manage stress and respond to destructive forces with a more positive mindset.
It becomes a powerful force for maintaining mental and emotional well-being in the face of life’s challenges.
Recognizing that emotional and mental health are influenced by the daily choices and attitudes we cultivate, love becomes a fundamental element of our holistic well-being.


Two Heart Cells Beating

“If you place two living heart cells from different people in a Petrie dish, they will in time find and maintain a third and common beat.”
~ Molly Vass

This biological fact holds the secret of all relationship. It is cellular proof that beneath any resistance we might pose and beyond all our attempts that fall short, there is the ver nature of life itself some essential joining force.
This inborn ability to find and enliven a common beat is the miracle of love.
This force is what makes compassion possible, even probable. For if two cells can find the common puls beneath everything, how much more can full hearts feel when all excuses fall away?
This drive towards a common heart is the force beneath curiosity and passion. It is what makes strangers talk to strangers, despite the discomfort. It is how we risk new knowledge. For being still enough, long enough, next to anything living, we find a way to sing the one voiceless song.
Yet we often tire ourselves by fighting how our hearts want to join, seldom realizing that both strength and peace come from our hearts beating in unison with all that is alive.
It feels incredible uplifting that without even knowing each other, there exists a common beat between all hearts, just waiting to be felt…
~ Mark Nepo (The book of awakening)

Monday 05.02.
Move the Energy up
Ripple Flow

Wednesday 07.02.
Connecting Breath & Heart
Slow Flow

Thursday 08.02.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 09.02.
Shoulder & Chest
Flow

Monday 12.02.
Heart over Brain
Organ Flow

Wednesday 14.02.
The Second Heart
Flow

Thursday 15.02.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 16.02.
Radiate out from the Heart
Flow

Monday 19.02.
Forgiveness
Flow

Wednesday 21.02.
Letting go to feel unclouded Joy
Flow

Thursday 22.02.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 23.02.
Self-Compassion
Slow Flow

Your love touches my heart all the times and has me grow and become a better person over these years!

Love & Gratitude,

Nicole

Article

The Mind Is Like An Intelligent Dog

My dear Global Yoga Community,

I have been working with my dog now for months on changing her behavior and I felt that I have come quite far.
As some of you know, it took a lot of patience, time, discipline, restrictions and being conscious about any signs that I receive as well as give.

The last couple of days I felt like going back to square one. First she ran away after she was searching for her food in the woods. The next day, she ran off while searching for her food. Today left even earlier and was even gone for an extended period of time. I started with her dealing with consequences on the 2nd day; like staying outside and no more food till the next day. It worked a few months ago in the learning phase, but this it didn’t have an effect at all.
To tell you the truth, it was and is pretty upsetting and frustrating, but I consciously tried to change my response to it, like laughing/being amused by her being so strong minded. I know she is testing me, trying to get away with things one more time. That’s what intelligent dogs do. And if you let them get away with it, the next time it will be even worse.

As I was sitting on a pile of rocks close to the car waiting for her, I was thinking to myself “that she is pretty much like how our mind behaves as well”.
When we decide we want or need to change something – the most obvious time is New Years and our resolutions. We start with a strong determination to follow through this time with the change of diet, working out every day, stop drinking alcohol or smoking. Then after a week or two we might slag here and there and then more and more. The mind convincing us of various reasons to go off track and soon all is out the window.

Dogs can sometimes be mischievous or attempt to do things they aren’t supposed to. How about if we would treat our mind like an intelligent dog and not let it get away with anything. Not let our mind engage in thoughts or behaviors that may not align with conscious intentions or desired outcomes. This could include impulsive or automatic reactions that go against our conscious goals.

The moment we thing we got it and we go with business as usual, it will throw a bigger or harder test at us to see how committed we are. So next time you are going through a change, you may think about your mind being a dog in behavior therapy. Instead of getting upset with yourself and beating yourself up, you might be able to laugh at yourself how it caught you off guard again 🙂
Then continue your journey in your new found spirit!
Consider smaller steps towards your goal that you can’t set yourself up for “failure”.

Using this metaphor, is an acknowledgment that the mind, like an intelligent dog, requires attention, training, and understanding. It emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the ability to guide one’s thoughts and actions consciously.

Monday 22.01
Self-Love
Slow Flow

Wednesday 24.01.
Three Breaths
Flow

Thursday 25.01.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 26.01.
Feel the Alignment
Elasti-Band-Flow

Wednesday 31.01.
Happy Hips
Flow

Thursday 01.02.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 02.02.
New Perspective
Slow Flow

After all my dog gave me at least the inspiration for this blog!

Love,

Nicole

Article

Resilience Of The Soul

@danielhannah

My dear Global Yoga Community,

The proverb “The eye is the window to the soul” always resonated with me. Which brings me to my main subject for this blog.
What does it mean to have a resilient soul?

A resilient soul typically refers to an individual who possesses the ability to bounce back, adapt, and overcome challenges, hardships, or adversities in life. Resilience is the capacity to face difficulties, trauma, or stress, and then recover from them with strength and grace.

A resilient soul is often characterized by a positive mindset, the ability to learn from experiences, and a determination to persevere in the face of difficulties. Resilience doesn’t mean avoiding or denying pain; instead, it involves coping with and growing from life’s inevitable setbacks.

* * *

When the soul’s immune system runs wild
Amygdala, hippocampus and somatic markers are helpful systems that work for us – or under certain circumstances against us. Because our soul is a developed system of conscious and, above all, unconscious programs. Just like our body, it must be fed with good food that the mental immune system can fend off the attacks of so-called psychological viruses. Experts such as the specialist psychologist for psychotherapy Dr. Hans Menning understand it as “penetrating harmful thoughts and feelings that have become lodged in us and cause us to ponder and make us unable to act.
Furthermore, Dr. Menning explains, “These are very powerful, often self-damaging programs; we often don’t even notice their intrusion, but once they are inside, they develop and control us. They often start with ‘you are…’ followed by a negative adjective and a reinforcement of what was said. ‘You’re chaotic, you always misplace everything!’ This seemingly harmless sentence has it all, it’s a classic psychological virus that can unfold and become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Of course, there are much more complex and subtle psychoviruses. We are exposed to attacks from a variety of viruses and are surrounded by ‘You must…’, ‘You shall…’ and ‘You must not…’. Ideally, we quickly leave these determinations behind us, but sometimes a virus takes hold and we ‘internalize’ it.”

Research shows, there are ways to stimulate the soul’s immune system, like the color blue. A blue sky has a particularly stimulating effect on our self-healing powers. This is because blue is the color of calm and serenity, embodied by water and sea, sky and horizon.
Brain researchers have discovered that the color blue has a particularly positive effect on the pituitary gland which regulates the entire human hormonal system. But blue is much more than that – it is one of the colors that particularly symbolize nature and is associated with a happy childhood. The fewer beautiful “blue” moments and the more dark experiences someone has had in childhood, the higher their risk of developing heart disease.
~ The immune system of the soul (Happi-Health 2/2019)

* * *

I think most of us are striving to be resilient. All forms of stress – physical, emotional or environmental, has an impact on our well-being. It’s a reminder that physical and emotional well-being are interconnected and intertwined, and the conclusion is taking care of both aspects contributes to a holistic sense of health, vitality and overall resilience. I am a strong believer that we always have the ability to change and reverse things in our life and in our body!
Let’s start with taking one positive action: Wear at least one blue item in class for the next two weeks 🙂

Monday 08.01.
Free your mind
Flow

Wednesday 10.01.
Happy Body – Blossoming Soul
Flow

Thursday 11.01.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 12.01.
Through Resistance to Resilience
Elasti-Band Slow Flow

Monday 15.01.
Where do you feel stress
Flow

Wednesday 17.01.
Looking Inward
Blind Flow

Thursday 18.01.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 19.01.
Embrace the Pain
Flow

I am looking forward to exploring the different aspects of resilience with you!

Love,

Nicole

Article

Interconnectedness of Transition, Change & Transformation

My dear Global Yoga Community,

Wishing you all Happy & Peaceful Holidays!
I have been contemplating lately about these three aspects that have had and big impact on my life over this past year. I think they have been a good guide for my “fresh” intentions.
As we all have our own process and life journey I hope this blog will resonate with you or inspire you in the way you set your intentions as well.


Transitions from one year to another, from one life phase to another, and from life to death are profound and inevitable aspects of the human experience.
*
Change is a fundamental aspect of life, and transitions represent the various phases or stages of these changes. 
*
Transformation goes beyond surface-level. It involves multiple changes that are integrated into a holistic shift while transition is the bridge between the old and the new in the transformational journey.

* * *

Transition, change, and transformation are not isolated events. They are continuous processes. Transition offers an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and the reshaping of one’s narrative.
While some transitions are joyous and celebratory, others may be challenging and require resilience and adaptation.
Here are a few key points to consider:

Inevitability of Change
Change is a constant in life. From personal development and relationships to career paths and societal shifts, change is inevitable. Embracing it can help us to navigate transitions more effectively.

Life Transitions
Life transitions encompass a wide range of experiences, such as moving from one stage of life to another (e.g., adolescence to adulthood, retirement), changes in personal relationships, career shifts, and more. Each transition brings its own set of challenges and opportunities.

Adaptability
The ability to adapt to change is a valuable skill. Life transitions often require us to be flexible, open-minded, and resilient. Developing these qualities can contribute to a smoother adjustment to new circumstances.

Growth and Learning
Transitions provide opportunities for personal growth and learning. Whether through challenges or new experiences, we can gain valuable insights and skills during times of change.

Psychological and Emotional Impact
Transitions can have a profound psychological and emotional impact. They may evoke feelings of excitement, anxiety, uncertainty, or a mix of emotions. Acknowledging and understanding these emotions is crucial for managing transitions and transformations successfully.

Support Systems
Having a strong support system, including friends, family, or professional networks, can be crucial during times of transition. Sharing experiences and seeking guidance can help us navigate the complexities of change and transformation.

Reflection and Planning
Transitions sometimes prompt us to reflect on our values, goals, and priorities. This introspection can lead to intentional planning and decision-making, guiding us toward a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Cycles of Change
Life is characterized by cycles of change, and transitions are part of these ongoing cycles. Recognizing that change is not a one-time event but a continual process can help us approach life with a sense of adaptability and resilience.

Time and Phases
Transitions, changes, and transformations often have overlapping timelines. Transitions may be short-term adjustments within a longer change process, and changes may be part of a broader transformational journey.

* * *

In essence, understanding and embracing the interconnectedness of transition, change and transformation can empower us to navigate life’s journey with greater resilience, purpose, and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, they contribute to the rich and complex tapestry of our human experience. 

Wednesday 27.12.
Celebrating Yourself
Slow Flow

Thursday 28.12.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 29.12.
Freedom of Choice
Flow

Sunday 31.12.
Fresh Intentions
Slow Flow

Wednesday 03.01.
One Change at a Time
Flow

Thursday 04.01.
Open Theme
Yogis Choice

Friday 05.01.
Transitions are Bridges
Flow

Wishing you all a Healthy, Happy New Year with fresh & exciting Intentions!

Love,

Nicole

  • Comments Off on Interconnectedness of Transition, Change & Transformation
  • Filed under: body, mind, soul, yoga

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