wanderlust

Calling All Yogis! Take the Quiz

November 20, 2015 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

What each Sacred Identity type does at a Yoga Class

The Boho Child (ENFP): Becomes besties with everyone around them in 5 minutes or less.

The Shaman (INFP): Calmly lights sage sticks ? cleanses the space.

The Truth Seeker (ISTJ): Just here for the Savasana.

The Yogi (ESFP): In the corner concentrating on nailing that Handstand Scorpion.

The Guru (ENFJ): Making friends with first-timers and teaching them the moves before class even starts.

The Life Coach (INFJ): Hosts a counselling session in the bathroom.

The Goddess (ESFJ): Calmly people watches ? learns.

The Light Worker (ISFJ): Walks around helping classmates nail down their poses.

The Gypset (ISFP): Crushing on the hot dude beside her.

The Risk Taker (ESTP): One-Handed Tree-Posing.

The Student (ISTP): Takes the advanced class on their first go.

The Warrior (ESTJ): Makes slightly inappropriate jokes for anyone who will listen.

The Planner (ENTJ): Somehow networks the entire class and wakes up with ten job offers.

The Creator (ENTP): Secretly wishes she was teaching the class.

The Sage (INTP): Accidentally wandered out of class and ended up in another town.

The Manifester (INTJ): Takes scheduled hydration breaks and basks in their happy place.

What’s your Sacred Identity?

Take the quiz here to find out, and share your results below!

Filed Under: Boho Community, Stories., Wanderlust, Yoga, Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: bohemian, mala beads, soul, Tiny Devotions, truth, wanderlust

Kickstart your Dreams: What I Learned in Thailand

October 22, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

I just got back from Thailand. For me, it was a dream, the trip of a lifetime. I got a chance to take a pause, smile in the sunshine, appreciate my struggles and thank the universe for new opportunities. Dreams can become a reality, I assure you! Go after them and seek that ‘something’ that sets the colors of your world on fire. To help you get there, here is a list of my shortcuts…

1. Pay attention. Kismet is calling you. Fate is real, that is a fact. I know for certain my path was paved with cobblestones of fate. There’s no other explanation as to how I got here except that I paid attention to the signs, went with it, and never stopped trying. Whether you believe it or not, I bet if you look hard, you can find messages everywhere that were meant for you. Why are they meant for you? Because you noticed them, and that counts for something. Pay attention. Listen to the nagging voices. Look around… the universe is calling.

2. Find the right partner. Don’t settle. I was lucky enough to find the right person for me who stuck with me and supported me no matter what hair-brained idea I came up with that I wanted to try next. To achieve your goals, it is imperative to have the right person by your side who’s a best friend, a confidant and a support network. I have told all three of my sons that choosing a spouse is the most important choice they will ever make, above anything. The right one can make the world brighter and challenges seem easier to reach.

3. Give back. Give thanks. This one’s a biggie. First, let me give you a small backstory. I was fortunate enough to be able to visit Cambodia within my recent travels abroad, and it was a place that absolutely changed me to my core. The second day I was there I knew I had to do something, and decided to start working on a foundation. If you are able, find a cause, contribute and volunteer. If not money, then donate your time. There’s a story about a kid standing on the seashore amongst millions of starfish that had washed up and were dying. He began throwing them out one by one back into the sea, and when a stranger approached and asked him what kind of difference he expected to make, he threw another starfish back and replied, “I made a difference to that one”. Be that person. Try to make a difference, even if it’s a small one, and I guarantee you will find yourself closer to your own goals by default.

4. Get a tattoo. Or something similar. What I really mean is that it is important to have a daily physical reminder to be thankful, pursue your goals and keep trying. If you aren’t into tattoos, wear a meaningful bracelet or keep a list of your goals in your wallet. Make the reminders that you need to ground you tangible. While in Thailand I received a sak yant blessing tattoo from a monk. That is my tangible reminder, and I’ve run my fingers over the blessing every day since I received it. If you are ever in Thailand, I highly recommend taking an adventure to Wat Bang Phra outside of Bangkok to get tattooed by a monk. It’s a wonderfully rad experience.

5. Be Real. Don’t compromise. Find your voice. Find who you are. Be genuine and true to yourself and don’t copy other people. I have sadly watched friendships destroyed over businesses, money takeover principles, and greed destroy love. There are people who will lie, cheat and steal to great ahead, but those people’s successes never last. Strive to be the kind of person that your grandmother would be proud to know. Cut and dry, be an awesome human, don’t stray from humanity and success will find you.

6. Think big. Life is finite. All of those things you want to do… go out and do them! You may not see how to get there at first, but perseverance wins. Perseverance mixed with big dreams… wins big. Be unstoppable. And then go to celebrate on the sandy beaches of Thailand.

Tiffani Shipman graduated from University of Oklahoma with degrees in Psychology and Sociology, received her RYT200 through Tiffany Cruikshank Yoga Medicine, and is currently studying Acupuncture, Holistic Therapy and Sports Medicine. She is a contributor to Misfit Yoga and Wellness and you can also find her blog, yoga schedule and more at www.tiffanishipman.com. When she isn’t studying her craft or teaching yoga, you’ll find her playing practical jokes on her friends and family, restoring old cars, baking cupcakes, hula hooping, or enjoying a beer in the backyard. She resides in Edmond, Oklahoma with her husband and three boys.

Filed Under: Intentional Living, Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: beach, dreams, lessons, ocean, thailand, travel, wanderlust, Yoga

Finding Bliss in Bali, Kundalini Style

October 9, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

I just recently was lucky enough to travel to Bali with my boyfriend for three weeks. In answer to your question, yes it was as dreamy as it sounds. Prior to jetting off, my mind was filled with the thoughts of beaches, pristine rice fields and breezy afternoons spent meditating (think, Julia Roberts, Eat Pray Love). Bali most certainly did not disappoint and I know with certainty that it is a place I will have to visit again in my life.

In my research leading up to the trip, it became clear that checking out a yoga class while in Bali was a must. Bali is the home to many renowned yoga teachers, schools and retreats. My boyfriend and I splurged and spent two nights at the gorgeous, Desa Seni Eco Village. Desa Seni is a popular spot for tourists and locals to enjoy organic meals, relax in authentic Balinese cottages and of course, practice yoga.

I carefully studied the yoga schedule, and decided to try a class I was not as familiar with. While home in Vancouver, I love a sweaty Vinyasa Flow or Hot class. I have only practiced Kundalini once, so decided Bali would be the place I would learn more about this form of yoga. Despite being intimidated by a sea of experienced yogis, I joined them for Kundalini on a beautiful Bali morning.

Before entering into practice, our instructor gave us a brief introduction to Kundalini. This tiny, tanned, glowing yogi explained that Kundalini practice involves repeated movements and chants with the intention of awakening and strengthening the spiritual and physical body. She said that “if you aren’t feeling some sort of discomfort during your practice, you are probably doing something wrong.”

This discomfort kicked in almost immediately as I bumbled through chants (note to self: learn Sanskrit) and felt my arms nearly light on fire as we moved them up and down, in circles and every other which way for minutes on end. In addition to warning us of the potential for pain, our instructor explained that some people claim to experience a unique sense of euphoria during and after Kundalini practice.

As we moved towards the end of class, something funny happened. While chanting (I learned to fake it) and pushing my body through repetitive, taxing motions, I felt an energy buzzing through myself and the yogis around me. The more I leaned into the discomfort, the more exhilarated I felt after the posture was over. I left that class feeling amazing and alive.

The post-Kundalini bliss lasted a few days and over that time I began to think about the parallels between this practice of yoga and travel itself. Like Kundalini, travel involves discomfort, uncertainty and sometimes pain. I experienced mind-numbing jet lag, was pummelled by a wave while relaxing on the beach and learned the hard way that my stomach and Indonesian pizza are not friends.

But, as I worked through these travel woes I also felt near perfect moments like watching the sunset on Lombok (an island off Bali), swimming in a pool, in our private pool with my lovely man and seeing countless Balinese people greet me with some of the most genuine smiles I’ve ever seen. These moments and my post-Kundalini endorphins would not have felt the same without enduring some discomfort beforehand.

These feelings of bliss may not always require some prior struggle, but in my experience they often do. Whether it is in travel, your yoga practice, or life in general, the good can sometimes come with some struggle. I wore my Wanderlust Mala, throughout my trip in Bali. Whenever I look at it, I am reminded of this beautiful contradiction. You don’t need to travel to Bali to experience this. Embrace the discomfort of a new job, yoga class (I highly recommend Kundalini!), or whatever feels foreign or scary to you. I guarantee you will get a least a little bliss out of it.

Liz works in Digital Engagement at lululemon athletica. Books are her one true love, with Pinterest as a close second. Expressing her thoughts and wisdom through writing is what lights her up. Her goal is to one day work as a freelance writer. See what she is up to on Instagram, @lady__lizz. ?

Filed Under: Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: Bali, beach, freedom, Indonesia, kundalini, meditation, spirit, travel, wanderlust, Yoga

10 Things to Think about Before Planning a Yoga Retreat

September 10, 2014 By bohodaily 1 Comment

1. What do I need in my life right now?
Create an intention for what you would like to achieve from a Yoga retreat. Attend regular Yoga or meditation classes to gain clarity and focus about what you currently need. Ask your body the question…’What do I need?’ Trust in the higher intelligence of your body to give you signals that will guide you towards your highest needs. Consider what you are looking for to decide on the most suitable retreats that will best fit your needs. Study the retreat descriptions carefully and find the one that speak loudly to you personally. Seek the ultimate retreat that appears to be customised just for you! When I design a retreat I’m aiming to create an experience that will refresh the spirit, reignite passion for living, rediscover balance in life and deepen our yoga and meditation practice.

2. What do I yearn to learn?
Retreats offer all kinds of different benefits and learning experiences. Exceptional retreats will offer a combination of many benefits and topics with an overall theme focus. Here’s a few to consider regarding what you may need and what may excite you.
• Restorative and nurturing yoga classes
• Energizing and dynamic yoga classes
• Advanced yoga postures
• Yoga philosophy
• New healthy rituals
• Ayurvedic lifestyle rituals
• Personal development
• Self healing
• Letting go of negative emotions
• Self love rituals
• Detox and cleansing
• Nourishing and energising food
• New foods and cooking demos
• Positive thinking and manifesting dreams
• Chakra energy centres
• Chi energy flow
• Learning new Yoga styles
• Peace, tranquillity, harmony
• Daily meditation
• Chanting
• Mantras and mudras
• Healthy weight and positive self image
• Self time; down time
• Adventures : skiing, horse riding, surfing, stand up paddling, snorkeling

3. Do I know the organizer or teachers on the Retreat?
It may be your own teacher or a teacher from your local studio who is running the retreat and you aspire to learning more from their lifestyle and wisdom. Does this teacher make you feel supported and cared for? Are they warm approachable and knowledgable? If you do not know the teacher then it’s best to spend time researching their credentials and experience and importantly check out their guest testimonials on past retreats. Feel confident in asking the teachers or organisers what their professional intention is with the retreat? You want to feel reassured that they are designing and guiding the retreat with a deeper passion to help, transform and improve peoples lives while immersed in the depths of Yoga practice, spiritual and healthy rituals.

4. What type of Yoga do I prefer?
Some retreats are based on specific types of Yoga styles (Hatha,Vinyasa, Anusara, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Yin, Acro etc) Enquire about the type of Yoga if you’re uncertain about the descriptions. Also check out the level of yoga (beginner, intermediate, advanced, all levels) and make sure the retreat you choose will accommodate your personal level of practice so you feel supported or challenged as much as you need. Unless specified as ‘advanced’, most retreats will cater for all levels Be prepared to embrace your individual journey without judging your ability or level. Most guests are surprised at the broad range of different levels and how comfortable and accepted they feel as they immerse into the retreat experience.

5. Location…location!
What landscape, culture and climate most inspires or deeply relaxes you? Are you more relaxed near the rainforest, by the ocean or in the mountains? Do you need adventure, culture, exotic locations and other elements to be included as part of your pre or post retreat experience. Retreat locations can be a monumental influence on the whole retreat experience. An amazing location will provide a powerful and positive flow of energy and negative ions, it will host a picture perfect backdrop and establish a beautiful soft ambience.Consider the location that most relaxes or excites you. Perhaps you’re interested in discovering a new location and new country and you can include the retreat as a healthy start or finish to your overseas holiday. Consider If you prefer luxury 5 star options verse basic rustic accommodation. The retreat accommodation should be clean, immaculate, stylish and esthetically pleasing. The layout should be feng shui considered to optimise a positive energy flow and additional touches such as crystals and ancient mythology statues will also support the energy and spiritual nature of the location.

6. Does it look professional and organized?
The retreat description should clearly outline the theme, style, dates, location, costs, general overview of activities and all inclusions. You can also submit prior interest in the retreat to receive the itinerary or schedule to gain more information on what to expect on the retreat and how to be prepared. Once your booking is confirmed you should also receive the comprehensive time schedule with your daily rituals, preparation guide, packing list and a health medical questionnaire form to assess your health status and intentions for the retreat. The greater the attention to logistics, the more nurtured and supported you will feel during the transition from your home to the retreat. Your dietary preparation pre retreat and your special food requirements should also be requested and recorded.

7. What are the Costs?
Most retreats should be inclusive of accommodation, food, yoga and all activities except airfare. Additional extras may include optional spa treatments and massages. Retreat costs will vary greatly depends on the number of nights stay, the luxury elements of the accommodation and the exact location. Choose retreats within your budget but also be prepared to save and invest in the retreat of your dreams!

8. When should I go?
It’s ideal to be organised well in advance however, if your life is completely off track and you feel desperately out of balance then don’t wait to start healing, rebalancing and renewing. Get happy and harmonised! Go now!

9. What foods turn you on?
Yoga Retreats will vary greatly with food choices and some may only offer vegetarian or vegan options. Some retreats will encourage you to eliminate certain foods pre retreat to alkalise the body and enhance your retreat experience with more energy and less joint stiffness. Remember that Yoga retreats are designed to energise the liver, nourish the adrenal glands and support the body from the inside out. Try to accept the cleansing of sugar, toxins and acidic products from your diet as the beginning of a whole new anti-aging and happier lifestyle. Ask to see the retreat menu and check that the food is supplied from fresh organic local suppliers if possible.

10. Is there soul surrender time just for YOU?
Choose a retreat that offers down time and personal surrender just for you. On a quality retreat even the yoga is optional. Choose how much or how little you want to participate.

Madonna Williams is a modern day Yoga and meditation therapist, health presenter and educator with a soulful approach to celebrating the body’s wisdom and inner spirit. Internationally accredited as a Yoga teacher and personal trainer, Madonna is the author of the successful book ‘Zen Soul Your Life‘ and the creator of the community Yoga movement ‘Zen Soul Yoga‘ that offers weekly Yoga classes and regular Yoga retreats. She is also the creator and presenter for the upcoming new online series ‘Yoga Zen Soul’. Trained in Zen Thai Shiatsu healing and food/nutrition coaching, Madonna also offers personal mentoring, healing massage and life coaching. Her work has been featured in media platforms such as Well-being Magazine, Cove Magazine, Get It Magazine, Gold Coast Magazine, Dolly Magazine, Channel Nine and the Gold Coast Bulletin. Madonna is a leader of body-mind-spiritual teachers and intends to help others ‘peace, nourish and nurture’ and always aim to ‘manifest your best’!

Filed Under: Intentional Living, Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: how to choose a yoga retreat, plan, planning, retreat, travel, wanderlust, what to do, Yoga, yoga retreat

Wanderlust Whistler: Jamie Anderson Style!

August 20, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Didn’t make it to Wanderlust Whistler this year? Don’t sweat it. American pro snowboarder and yogi, Jamie Anderson is sharing a photo diary of her epic Wanderlust adventure with our Boho Daily community! You might recognize Jamie from the Olympic podium. She snagged the gold medal for women’s slope style in Sochi this winter. When she’s not making magic happen on the mountain, Jamie can be found getting her downward dog on. Yoga is one of her passions.

Wanderlust Whistler through the eyes of Jamie Anderson…

There is nothing like practicing yoga on top of a mountain during a magical sunset!

Taking in this sacred meditation space at the Olympic plaza… The power of love and intention!

Strength does not come from an outside source, it comes from within. We are all capable of anything we believe in! Manifest, Believe & Achieve!

Love is the ultimate renewable resource. #blissology

Yoga slackers! Taking my balance to a whole new level…

“Let go” #tribalmarkings from @amirimage

Hand stands are the best. Mind-body-spirit connections….

So grateful for this community of conscious beautiful beings, coming together to celebrate Life, nature, Music, Yoga, Healthy food, and good vibrations! Namaste friends.

Website: www.itsjamieanderson.com

Twitter: @JamieASnow

Facebook: Jamie Anderson Snow

Instagram: Jamie Anderson

Filed Under: Inspiration, Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: british columbia, jamie anderson, Mountains, olympic, olympics, photo, snowboard, snowboarding, Style, wanderlust, Wanderlust Whistler, Yoga

Wanderlust Wednesday: from Ohio to Snowmass!

August 6, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Photo by: Sasha Juliard

I’ve returned to Ohio from a fantastical experience of Wanderlust Aspen Snowmass and feel so full. Presenting the Elemental Cleanse was, of course, a thrill, but even more thrilling was the gift of participation. I fell in love, again, with yoga. The diversity at Wanderlust is incredible. I experienced everything from the bliss of a sweat drenching rock explosion with Johnny Kest to a magical tear inducing meditation with Kundalini legend Gurmukh. Polarized by the extremes of the practices, yet realizing a greater message of empowerment and success exuding from all the teachers presenting there.

I don’t know, I guess presenting at a festival like Wanderlust could go to your head, but I’ve always been the person to simply tackle a project and move on. It’s part of the reason I started practicing yoga, to learn how to navigate my mind, honor myself, and love myself. I’m still working on patting myself on the back and accepting compliments. I’m still working on releasing my need to be perfect. If yoga does nothing else for you but allow you to see yourself and accept yourself in a new light of success, I think it’s done it’s job.

Wanderlust left me thinking a lot about what success means and how I how this classically conservative Midwestern meat and potatoes girl has become modestly successful in the spiritual industry of yoga allowing me to do what I love for a living. Here are my rules for success.

Know what you want to be when you grow up. Living the life of your dreams is quite practical. Simply know what you want. Dream it, envision it, and live it.

Avoid the corners. The box is broken. Live in a bubble of your own creation.

Be okay with adversity. If everyone likes you, you are not innovating or leading. Worse yet, you’ve surrounded yourself with people who are not challenging you to grow.

Fail often and daily if possible. If you aren’t failing, you aren’t learning. I know it’s scary, but you will get used to it.

Work hard every day, but let your work be your joy. It was Yogananda who professed work to be the finest form of meditation. Lose yourself in it.

Share your knowledge, your time, and your wealth. Give freely and often.

Pamela Quinn is the founder of Elemental OM, the author of “The Elemental Cleanse,” a teacher of Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, and Ayurveda. She has dedicated her life to helping yogis fully and completely embrace the yogic lifestyle. You can learn more from Pamela at www.elementalom.com or simply email questions to Pamela@elementalom.com. Pamela is socially connected through Facebook at www.facebook.com/pameladquinn

Filed Under: Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: Aspen, Colorado, Elemental Cleanse, Elemental Om, wanderlust, Wanderlust Snowmass, Yoga

Wanderlust Whistler: The Must Haves

July 30, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Heading to Wanderlust Whistler this weekend? You lucky devil. Situated between two of Canada’s most beautiful mountains (Whistler and Blackcomb), Wanderlust Whistler is a yogi’s dream. Fresh mountain air, epic music, amazing yoga instructors, we could gush about it all for hours. But we’ll spare you. Instead we’ve put together a list of must-haves! Much more useful right?

1. Mala Beads. We may be biased, but word on the street is mala beads are the latest and greatest trend to hit yoga since luon. Wear your intention loud and proud this weekend! We’ve even got a Wanderlust Mala and Bracelet intentionally crafted by us to embody the spirit of Wanderlust Festival. The ultimate souvenir? We think yes.

2. Bright, Bold, Tights. Black is so basic. This summer it’s all about being bold. That’s why we are obsessed with our Teeki tights. Not only are these bad boys super stylish and comfortable, they’re also made from recycled plastic bottles. Eco chic? Yes please.

3. Summer Scarves. Versatility is your friend at Wanderlust. So are summer scarves. These light weight, bold patterned scarfs don’t just have to be worn around your neck. Bandanas, head wraps, sarongs, the sky’s the limit. Style is all about being creative after all.

4. Your Soul Mat. A yogi’s relationship with their mat is very serious. You sweat together. You savasana together. You balance together. You grow stronger together. Find a yoga mat you really love and bring it with you everywhere. We’re huge fans of Manduka mats. Crafted using simple, enduring, natural and whenever possible, renewable resources, these mats mean business.

5. A Beautiful Journal. A weekend spent meditating, dancing, laughing and yoga-ing up a storm in one of the world’s most breathtaking places, don’t tell us you won’t be inspired. When inspiration hits, be ready. That’s why we recommend bringing a beautiful journal or notebook with you. When your mind’s not busy be blown by Wanderlust Whistler epicness try and take a few minutes to jot your ideas down. You’ll thank us later. Trust.

xx – The Tiny Devotions Team.

Filed Under: Style, Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: mala beads, Manduka, scarves, Teeki, Tiny Devotions, wanderlust, Wanderlust Whistler, WLWhistler, Yoga, yoga pants

Confessions from a Boho Fashionista: My All Time Favourite Ashrams and Why you Should go at Least Once!

July 25, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Hey Boho Beauties,

The last time I created one of my most solid intentions was at my all time fave ashram. “I am love.” It came to me in a moment of sweet silence when turquoise waves were soothing the white shore at Paradise Island, Nassau. Yoga babes and gypsy goddesses alike have shared moments of pure bliss like this with me, when their time spent at an ashram turned from 7 day vacay to life changing journey. If you’ve never been, an ashram is a spiritual center meant for healing, yoga, meditation and karma exchange. Dreamers like us go to there to shed old energy, create new light and return to the true beauties that we are. With so many places to get our ashram on, it’s hard to choose a spot.

Here are my top 3 fave ashrams that you should visit now. . .

Val Morin, Quebec, Canada: Spiritual warriors, truth seekers and gypsy goddesses have been opening their third eyes in the lotus pose at this ashram since the 60’s! It’s the very first ashram on North American soil and the headquarters of Sivananda Yoga Centres. Yoga queens should check out this peaceful paradise if their looking to clear out the old and increase their bliss ten fold. Situated in the heart of 250 forested acres of the Laurentian mountains, this place has serious soul. Pack light and prepare to enjoy woodland paths, a dip in fresh water pools and overflowing gardens.

Grass Valley, California: We’re all California girls at heart, so taking a trip to the Sivananda Retreat Center in golden Grass Valley California will be like the ultimate homecoming. There’s 80 secluded acres of pure sweetness on this woodland property that is steps from Nevada and a skip to San Francisco. You can walk through the unending meadows and contemplate your heart’s desires or go on scenic hikes to create some special intentions. Spend the afternoon dipping your boho toes in the pond, or break free and go white water rafting, this place has it all!

Paradise Island, Bahamas: If Ashrams had a gold medal, Paradise Island would be winning by a long shot. This stunning and scenic peace center is a must-visit for all goddesses looking to get seriously spiritual in an idyllic setting. Bronzed mamas can sit by the bay in silence, planning up their most auspicious dreams, releasing the unneeded and conspiring the new. Listen to the waves, feel the sun kiss your skin and let your inner guru lead the way at this world-renowned bliss factory. This place is a true sanctuary that has natural beauty similar to yours, boho babe, so grab your passport and get south!

Have you found heaven at an ashram? I know you bohemian bellas have been, and I’d love to hear all about your experiences at these sweet fantasylands. Tell me all about it in the comments below!

Peace, Love and Magic from

Your Resident Boho Fashionista, Libby xx

Filed Under: Yoga + Spirit Tagged With: Ashrams, Grass Valley California, meditation, Paradise Island Quebec, Sivananda Yoga Center, travel, vacation, Val Morin Quebec, wanderlust, Yoga

Peace, Love Wanderlust! ?

July 16, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Don’t forget to pack your Wanderlust Mala + bracelet before heading out to have the time of your life. . . xx.

Filed Under: Inspiration Tagged With: Katie brauer, love, peace, wanderlust, Wanderlust Squaw Valley, Yoga

Wanderlust Wednesday: 5 Things Wanderlust Taught Me About LIFE

July 9, 2014 By bohodaily Leave a Comment

Be open to possibility
I bought my very first wanderlust ticket on trust; not knowing how I was going to get there, who I was going to go with, or where I was staying. I just had a goal to go to a yoga festival and Wanderlust Squaw Valley was the one I picked! “Yoga, Music, Nature” – I had to go. I am usually one to plan, research, figure things out, have everything organized, and know exactly what I am doing before I pull any triggers or spend money. I like to be organized and prepared. Spending $400 on a festival ticket without doing any of that stuff was a leap of faith and totally put me out of my comfort zone. I put trust in the universe and trust in myself that I was going to figure it out because gosh dang it, I was crossing that goal off my list! That was over two years ago. I have now been to five Wanderlust Festivals and taught at three of them, all because I was open to possibility.

Go with the flow
I was teaching Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga in Chicago when I went to Wanderlust at Squaw Valley. There were only three SUP Yoga classes available and they were all filled up when I went to register for my classes. I was so bummed and disappointed. When I got to the festival, one of the amazing people I met there had registered for one of the classes. She was driving separately instead of taking the shuttle and told me she would drive me and we should go to see if maybe they would have an extra board or perhaps there would be a no show. I was open to possibility at that point so decided to give it a shot. Sure enough, a board became available to me and I took an amazing class and met the BOGA YOGA team. I am now an ambassador for them and have met even more amazing people because of them. You just never know who you will meet or where life will take you.

You’re not alone
The Wanderlust festivals are as much about yoga as they are about community. This, in my option, makes total sense because yoga is union and connection; thus, how could it not also be about community. Walking around the festivals, I always feel at home in a faraway place. I’ve found myself saying, “See, there are other people who are just as crazy about yoga, recycling, healthy eating, and stretchy pants as you are.” I’m from Chicago where there’s a big yoga community but at the festival it’s a whole new level. At Wanderlust, I’ve always felt it was very easy to talk to and feel a connection to someone you’ve never met before and I’m usually an introvert!

Connect to the real life
The first time I taught at a Wanderlust Festival, it was in Whistler, Canada. This meant that I was going to be charged out the wazoo if I used my phone much at all. I limited my usage to when I could connect to wifi (which wasn’t often). I was working and traveling with Canadians so felt safe and didn’t need to use my phone much to get a hold of people. During down times though, I found myself instinctively grabbing for it to delete unwanted emails, check social media, give my hands and eyes something to do or feed the need to be connected. I had to stop and actively tell myself that I could totally get connected to all the beauty, people, and nature around me. Phones may give us a world of information at our finger tips but nothing beats the real life of people watching and mountains around you. Why wouldn’t I soak up every moment in beautiful Whistler, Canada?

Follow your own compass
Everyone’s experience of the festival is different. Some people go mainly to do yoga, others go to relax, and others are primarily there for the music and night scene. There are so many classes and opportunities, you can catch the FOMO (fear of missing out) bug. I know I did at several of the festivals I’ve been to. Go with your gut, listen to your body and follow what opportunities speak to you. “Find your true north.” Remember be open to possibility, go with the flow, you’re not alone and connect to the real life!

Once a dancer, now Certified Health Coach, Yoga Instructor, Food Blogger, Photographer and over all mind/body/soul health enthusiast, Katarina Arneri? has a love and passion for teaching and health. Based out of Chicago, she specializes in stress management, digestive health care, and Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga. She was the first to bring S.U.P. Yoga to Chicago in 2011 and is an ambassador for BOGA. She travels the US to teach S.U.P. Yoga and lead S.U.P. Yoga Teacher Trainings. Katarina believes you don’t find a happy healthy life, you create one. What steps are you taking today to create yours?