Are you feeling the heat this summer?
Maybe you feel more relaxed, or maybe you feel uncomfortable with your sweat.
The good news is that heating up your body can not only help to increase your flexibility in yoga poses, but it also typically leads to sweating, which helps your body to get rid of toxins faster. Experts agree that we mainly release excess salt, cholesterol and alcohol, which means that sweaty exercises will de-bloat us and clean our clogged arteries.
Further, our sweat also works as an antibiotic. If our skin is wounded by a small cut, a scratch, or the sting of a mosquito, antibiotic agents secreted in sweat glands, such as dermcidin, rapidly and efficiently kill invaders. The heat also encourages an increase in cardiovascular activity and helps you burn more calories.
Maybe you feel more relaxed, or maybe you feel uncomfortable with your sweat.
The good news is that heating up your body can not only help to increase your flexibility in yoga poses, but it also typically leads to sweating, which helps your body to get rid of toxins faster. Experts agree that we mainly release excess salt, cholesterol and alcohol, which means that sweaty exercises will de-bloat us and clean our clogged arteries.
Further, our sweat also works as an antibiotic. If our skin is wounded by a small cut, a scratch, or the sting of a mosquito, antibiotic agents secreted in sweat glands, such as dermcidin, rapidly and efficiently kill invaders. The heat also encourages an increase in cardiovascular activity and helps you burn more calories.
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Hot Yoga is designed to replicate the heat and humidity of India where yoga originated. A room is warmed to 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit while you are maintaining your asanas, poses. There are four official types of hot yoga: Bikram (a sequence produced by Bikram Choudhury from traditional hatha yoga techniques with 40% humidity and 104 degrees Farenheit), Forrest (yoga poses with Native American spirituality to create a "yoga sweat lodge" in a heated room), Power Yoga (quickly paced Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga in combination with a modern style of gymnastic exercises) and TriBalance (integrates aspects of several styles, including Ashtanga Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Yin yoga, and therapeutic yoga -slightly warmer but less humid conditions than Bikram Yoga).
Although I personally prefer natural temperatures when I practice yoga in the park or un-air-conditioned studio, sometimes in the summer, we can build heat a lot easier.
We can create more heat in our bodies through the concept of tapas, one of the Niyamas (personal guidelines) in Pantajali’s 8 Limbed Path to Enlightenment. Tapas means to burn away ‘impurities’ physically, mentally and emotionally, paving the way to our true greatness. We can achieve tapas through disciplined use of our energy, In this case, sweaty exercise. Tapas helps us to enthusiastically engage life with our bodies by clearing out the distracting desires that stand in our way of creating union with the Divine.
Although I personally prefer natural temperatures when I practice yoga in the park or un-air-conditioned studio, sometimes in the summer, we can build heat a lot easier.
We can create more heat in our bodies through the concept of tapas, one of the Niyamas (personal guidelines) in Pantajali’s 8 Limbed Path to Enlightenment. Tapas means to burn away ‘impurities’ physically, mentally and emotionally, paving the way to our true greatness. We can achieve tapas through disciplined use of our energy, In this case, sweaty exercise. Tapas helps us to enthusiastically engage life with our bodies by clearing out the distracting desires that stand in our way of creating union with the Divine.
Tapas means to burn away ‘impurities’ physically, mentally and emotionally, paving the way to our true greatness.
 Building heat in Crow Pose |  Wild Thing Pose |
Sometimes, when we sweat a lot during our yoga practice, we might find it hard to grip, or we may even slip. So, to prevent injuries during hot or sweaty yoga of any kind, I recommend using Aurorae’s super lightweight and absorbent microfiber mat towel. You can easily place the towel on top of your yoga mat. It is designed to absorb any extra perspiration that may accumulate on your body, as well as your yoga mat while practicing, creating a slip-free surface and safe practice.
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It can be easily cared for: Machine wash separately, cold water with detergent, and tumble dry low. It will outperform any ordinary cotton towel that you use to dry yourself off after a shower. It currently is available in two sizes: 72″x 24″ and 30″x 24.” Choose from 9 vibrant colors to match your yoga mat: Crown, Infinity, Midnight, Royal Plum, Ocean, Violet, Camarone Green, Seamist, Earth, Honey Dew, Ice Blue, Lemon, Cantaloupe, Purple Passion, Stone Grey, and Tie Dye.
This Week Only, Aurorae is offering one of their Yoga Mat Towels as a Giveaway for new email subscribers. If you enter your email below by next Sunday, August 7th, you have a chance to win!
When I think of detoxing in the heat, I’m reminded of my afternoons in Palm Springs. Palm Springs is a sun drenched desert oasis vacation destination with over 350 days of sunshine. The pace is relaxed, the colors are saturated by the warm desert light, and the living is easy.
The streets and pools are lined with palm trees which are perfect for staring up at, while soaking up the warm sunshine. When I was a flight attendant from 2006-2010, I would love to get an overnight in Palm Springs. Throughout the four years we stayed at several different hotels, but one thing was always the same- I loved to lay out in the sunny heat by the pool. In October, the average high is 91 degrees while the average low is 62, making for a pleasantly warm escape.
This October, I’d love to share this escape with you and your yoga practice. We will engage with tapas, heat of self discipline, through meditation, yoga, painting, book discussion and relaxing by the pool, with all meals prepares by Chef Carlos Lopez.
The streets and pools are lined with palm trees which are perfect for staring up at, while soaking up the warm sunshine. When I was a flight attendant from 2006-2010, I would love to get an overnight in Palm Springs. Throughout the four years we stayed at several different hotels, but one thing was always the same- I loved to lay out in the sunny heat by the pool. In October, the average high is 91 degrees while the average low is 62, making for a pleasantly warm escape.
This October, I’d love to share this escape with you and your yoga practice. We will engage with tapas, heat of self discipline, through meditation, yoga, painting, book discussion and relaxing by the pool, with all meals prepares by Chef Carlos Lopez.
Further, the book discussions and painting workshop allow you to explore the concept of the Tree of Yoga, by B.K.S. Iyengar as we explore the visual and symbolic aspect of palm trees through balance, shape, line, color, value, form, unity, and texture.
We will also have the opportunity to practice some yoga poses in the pool as we cool off. Wiith the release of gravity the body is able to find the optimum stretch.
We will also have the opportunity to practice some yoga poses in the pool as we cool off. Wiith the release of gravity the body is able to find the optimum stretch.
This Desert Ranch is a private oasis made of 3 beautiful houses in a majestic location. It is a perfect retreat for everyone and minutes from downtown Palm Springs. Feel instantly at home on the multi-acre grounds shared with horses and goats in the relaxed desert atmosphere! There are a variety of options for prices, depending on your level of privacy and comfort.
Why is a retreat important?
Another one of Pantajali’s Limbs is called Pratyahara. It means to draw back or retreat. The word ahara means nourishment; pratyahara translates as to withdraw oneself from that which nourishes the senses. Pratyahara occurs almost automatically when we meditate because we are so absorbed in the object of meditation. Especially because the mind is so focused, the senses follow it. So that you can concentrate without grasping or being distracted by externals.
Under normal circumstances the senses become our masters rather than being our servants. The senses entice us to develop cravings for all sorts of things. In pratyahara the opposite occurs: when we have to eat we eat, but not because we have a craving for food. In pratyahara we try to put the senses in their proper place, but not cut them out of our actions entirely.
Under normal circumstances the senses become our masters rather than being our servants. The senses entice us to develop cravings for all sorts of things. In pratyahara the opposite occurs: when we have to eat we eat, but not because we have a craving for food. In pratyahara we try to put the senses in their proper place, but not cut them out of our actions entirely.
This upcoming Palm Springs retreat is for women who need to step away from their routine, deepen their yoga and meditation practice, learn to reduce their cravings, and form a community, connecting with like-minded women. We will practice through movement, stillness, meditation, painting, walking, reading, and discussion. This retreat is appropriate for both beginning and experienced yoga and meditation students. There are many opportunities for practice, but this is your retreat. Take this time to be with yourself and practice getting in touch with noticing your thoughts and aligning your dreams with your actions.
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Another way to take a mini vacation from your mind is through the new meditation app called Simple Habit. It is perfect for clearing the mind and letting go of the desires of the senses, as in Pratyahara. I Love to listen On The Go- on my walk through the city or park, taking a moment away from the computer screen, having a bad day, and even while I’m commuting.
The voice has a lovely soothing accent. The 5-minute meditations give a prompt and allow just enough time for you to direct your thoughtswithout getting distracted again. For example, during the walk through the city, she will prompt you to listen to all of the sounds that come and go (swish of cars moving, construction noises, airplanes taking off), without judgment. Then notice the details in the buildings, windows, or rooftops. Further, I notice the people coming and going as I feel a sense of oneness and connectivity. It's so nice to have the reminder to step away from our personal problems and see the bigger picture.
The voice has a lovely soothing accent. The 5-minute meditations give a prompt and allow just enough time for you to direct your thoughtswithout getting distracted again. For example, during the walk through the city, she will prompt you to listen to all of the sounds that come and go (swish of cars moving, construction noises, airplanes taking off), without judgment. Then notice the details in the buildings, windows, or rooftops. Further, I notice the people coming and going as I feel a sense of oneness and connectivity. It's so nice to have the reminder to step away from our personal problems and see the bigger picture.
Try the App for 2 Weeks FREE using this code: JTRIO
Please email me at Hannah@halfmoonyoganandart.com with any questions about the Palm Springs Retreat or the GiveAway Aurorae Yoga Mat Towel! Also, grab a pair of Palm Tree Yoga Leggings from one of my paintings!
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Some reviews from my last retreat in Julian-
“This retreat was more fulfilling than expected. Activities were full of themes of self-love, unburdening addictions, maintaining a peaceful mindset that radiates positivity, and awareness of strengths and areas of self-growth. I especially appreciated the mantra shared and the morning meditation and yoga, as that was a new practice for me. The gentle yoga in the evening was original and creatively themed to match topics of discussion and Hannah has a beautiful calming presentation. The meals were also a highlight- healthy, hearty, and nutritious meals prepared by a private chef. I am thankful to have been a part of this weekend, as I have walked away in a better version of myself. I look forward to the opportunity to do this again.” -Monica Lane
“I felt very well received and calm with this group of women. Any anxiety that I had quickly disappeared. Hannah is calm and a natural at guiding in yoga and meditation. The music was perfect, calming and well thought out. Sounds that evoked positive experiences and memories. The food was excellent, nourishing and tasty. I generally feel blessed and glad I decided on attending the retreat. I am able to go forth in life with healing and being more confident in decision making.”-Kelly Trifilo
“I thoroughly enjoyed the quality time with compassionate and intelligent women. This is just what I needed. I live with 3 boys and really benefited from this balance. The location was beautiful and serene. I loved the frequency of yoga and meditation. I discovered a new hobby as I stretched out of my element with drawing succulents and painting them in watercolor. It really tested my self-esteem and patience, but I got great results. The food was definitely a highlight: colorful, tasty, healthy, and best of all- made with love <3.” -Maggie Calderon
“I spent the weekend drawing and painting in a meditative way, doing yoga combined with travel and adventure themes drawn from Hannah's own travels. We meditated and followed guided visualizations that supported our dreams and potential with themes of inner peace and joy. The weekend was seamless and so well organized. It was a weekend full of treasures and blessings that filled my heart; I made some wonderful connections and friends on this short retreat, and I also feel healthier and fitter!” -Irene Jones
“The retreat with Hannah from Half Moon Yoga and Art was such a nice time. Hannah's yoga was fun and the themes provided an interesting and entertaining time. The structured schedule was appropriate and worked well. The food was amazing- delicious and perfectly time! I felt taken care of and peaceful. I enjoyed the continuity of the balance theme throughout, using the book with the yoga, meditations, and circle discussion time all with the theme tied together.”- Rebekah Anderson
Hannah is amazing with what she has put together: creative yoga sequences, mindful meditations, unbelievable food and great fellowship with like-minded people. The art and hiking were great too! She packed so much into this weekend, i feel like I've been gone a week! Thank you <3 -Cindy Castle
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Sign up now to save your special spot! Early Bird Discount Ends August 21st!
Check out the Full Details Here:
“This retreat was more fulfilling than expected. Activities were full of themes of self-love, unburdening addictions, maintaining a peaceful mindset that radiates positivity, and awareness of strengths and areas of self-growth. I especially appreciated the mantra shared and the morning meditation and yoga, as that was a new practice for me. The gentle yoga in the evening was original and creatively themed to match topics of discussion and Hannah has a beautiful calming presentation. The meals were also a highlight- healthy, hearty, and nutritious meals prepared by a private chef. I am thankful to have been a part of this weekend, as I have walked away in a better version of myself. I look forward to the opportunity to do this again.” -Monica Lane
“I felt very well received and calm with this group of women. Any anxiety that I had quickly disappeared. Hannah is calm and a natural at guiding in yoga and meditation. The music was perfect, calming and well thought out. Sounds that evoked positive experiences and memories. The food was excellent, nourishing and tasty. I generally feel blessed and glad I decided on attending the retreat. I am able to go forth in life with healing and being more confident in decision making.”-Kelly Trifilo
“I thoroughly enjoyed the quality time with compassionate and intelligent women. This is just what I needed. I live with 3 boys and really benefited from this balance. The location was beautiful and serene. I loved the frequency of yoga and meditation. I discovered a new hobby as I stretched out of my element with drawing succulents and painting them in watercolor. It really tested my self-esteem and patience, but I got great results. The food was definitely a highlight: colorful, tasty, healthy, and best of all- made with love <3.” -Maggie Calderon
“I spent the weekend drawing and painting in a meditative way, doing yoga combined with travel and adventure themes drawn from Hannah's own travels. We meditated and followed guided visualizations that supported our dreams and potential with themes of inner peace and joy. The weekend was seamless and so well organized. It was a weekend full of treasures and blessings that filled my heart; I made some wonderful connections and friends on this short retreat, and I also feel healthier and fitter!” -Irene Jones
“The retreat with Hannah from Half Moon Yoga and Art was such a nice time. Hannah's yoga was fun and the themes provided an interesting and entertaining time. The structured schedule was appropriate and worked well. The food was amazing- delicious and perfectly time! I felt taken care of and peaceful. I enjoyed the continuity of the balance theme throughout, using the book with the yoga, meditations, and circle discussion time all with the theme tied together.”- Rebekah Anderson
Hannah is amazing with what she has put together: creative yoga sequences, mindful meditations, unbelievable food and great fellowship with like-minded people. The art and hiking were great too! She packed so much into this weekend, i feel like I've been gone a week! Thank you <3 -Cindy Castle
Don’t let this opportunity pass you by! Sign up now to save your special spot! Early Bird Discount Ends August 21st!
Check out the Full Details Here:
