ABOUT

Everyday life can bring stressful situations that we can't control or ignore. We can't always change our situation but we can counterbalance with improving our healthy habits and taking time for self-indulgence and pampering. That's how the idea for the blog and the blog name came about.

Retreat...to a serene and tranquil place. It can be an actual physical place or simply within yourself. Restore...do what feels decadently indulgent. Maybe that includes taking a nap...maybe it's soaking your feet and painting your toes nails your favorite color. Read a book, journal, do yoga, play the piano, paint...take the time to figure out what feels restorative...what feels yummy to you... and do it!

I wanted to bring the essence of all that I feel passionate about together to create this blog... hoping that as you read you'll be motivated to incorporate some life altering healthy practices such as yoga, meditation and relaxation into your daily routine. But most importantly...learn how to let go of any barriers that keep you from expanding the joy in your life!

As a yoga enthusiast, I have enjoyed having the opportunity to teach yoga and practice yoga. I believe that yoga is an amazing modality that offers a multitude of health and wellness benefits, positively impacting your life in every way.

Within the various components that make up a traditional yoga class, you will find a host of wonderful techniques that help restore a state of calm and our relaxation response. You become equipped with tools that help you navigate through the stress and turmoil that life brings your way. Some of these tools include not only tension releasing stretches but also breathing techniques, visualization, progressive relaxation, meditation, philosophy, affirmations and more.

My experience teaching yoga started six years ago with a chair yoga program that I developed and traveled with to teach in senior living facilities and nursing homes. Supporting my mission that yoga is and should be available and accessible to everyone, I visited preschools, public schools, fitness facilities, recreational facilities, hospitals, chiropractic offices, and businesses sharing the wonderful health and wellness benefits of yoga.

My educational background is in the field of psychology and though I have never (officially) worked in the field, I am fascinated about how the mind works and how it shapes our behavior.

I also enjoy being a writer and using words to inspire and motivate. I love integrating beautiful poetic language into a meditation or guided imagery. I am personally inspired by quotes and enjoy reading books that help me to be my best self.

When stress is absent and the mind is free of tension...it's amazing what miraculous things can unfold and surface .

Let's begin!

Debbie Smith, CYT