Monday, November 30, 2015

Love You More

Do you give to yourself as much as you do your family, friends, job or community? It's a balance. Too much for you and it's selfish; too much for others and you're depleted. When we don't give to ourselves the imbalance may create resentment, anger, and low self-esteem. With self care, we change from needing respect, love & acceptance from outside sources to being already filled with self-respect, self-love & self-approval. Everything we receive from others just adds to our fullness like a cherry on a sundae.

Our whole world changes. We are able to see, give and receive with peace in our hearts, mind and body. Self-care compliments our health care practices and enables us to meet the day as our best selves. An intention to support this mindset, "I give to others and myself." Another... "I am balanced in my efforts of giving."

Do you balance your efforts of giving to others and yourself? What will you do today to move towards a better balance?

A great way to give love yourself than with a lil Holistic Yoga... A balanced asana or physical practice will include the following types of poses forward bends, backbends, side bends, inversions, and twists. You can create a balanced yoga practice with very little time. Start with an even breath and continue to flow with your breath through the following sequence:
Depending on your time you may want to repeat individual poses. You could repeat the first two (Cat - Cow and Child's Pose) or the first three/four once or twice before completing your practice with the remaining poses and Legs Up the Wall.

As always, honor your needs and modify to embrace your body's needs that day.


Monday, September 14, 2015

See You Next Spring

As the seasons change, we are given an opportunity to take our practice indoors.  As your yoga teacher, I will take this time to journey inward and explore my personal practice as well as to continue connecting with you in private sessions.  Guerilla Yoga will return in the spring with inspiring locations and enriching sequences.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Des Moines Community Yoga Bash

In lieu of our Guerilla Yoga class, we'll be joining the Des Moines Community Yoga Bash this evening. Des Moines Social Club and Des Moines-area yoga studios are bringing you an amazing night of music, food and fun for the whole family. We'll be kicking it off with yoga led by Ben "Good Vibes" Spellman in the DMSC courtyard, followed by a rooftop party on the Kum & Go Theater. Food will be available for purchase from Fresh CafĂ© and a few of Des Moines' food truck favorites!

View all the details on these websites:

Monday, August 31, 2015

No Guerrilla Yoga - September 1

With the temperature and humidity high, we won't be taking our #guerillayogadm practice outside this week.

I strongly encourage you to take some time to yourself and cool down with a guided meditation from the app Buddhify... http://buddhify.com/try/

Sunday, August 23, 2015

Shattering Silence - August 25

Take a break and join me in a holistic yoga practice at 5:30pm Tuesday, August 25 on Capitol grounds.  Perched on a hill overlooking downtown Des Moines, the Shattering Silence art sculpture is one of the several sights in view from our mat.  The Japanese Bell of Peace and Friendship is also in view.

Free parking is available in the visitor lot of the Iowa Judicial Building (1111 East Court Avenue Des Moines 50319).  In this map, the parking lot is labeled number 26.  Once parked, you'll walk West past the Judicial building and the bell.

We'll be practicing on a cushion of grass under the blue sky beside the Shattering Silence monument pictured below.  I'll be leading a class that connects us to our inner peace.

Suggested donation of $10 may be made by credit card or cash.  Bring your mat, a towel, and an open mind.




Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Principal Park Ball Sculpture - August 20

I'll be sharing a refreshing practice on the South side of Principal Park 5:30pm Thursday, August 20.  Under the sun, we'll unroll our mats by the ball sculpture so that we may take in views of the Raccoon River and majestic bridges.  My favorite pedestrian bridge the Jackson Avenue Bridge is one of the many site.  Check out the views from the Guerilla Yoga mat in the collage to the right.
 

Free parking is available in the main lot of Principal Park (1 Line Drive Des Moines 50309) nearest the river and 2nd Street marked in the map in yellow.  Meet at the ball sculpture pictured in the collage and noted in red on the map below.  Bring your yoga mat, $10 and an open mind.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Shade of the Hub Spot - August 12

Views from the Mat
The views to the right share only a fraction of  the beauty of our next Guerilla Yoga location.  With the Court Avenue Bridge and Des Moines River in sight, I'm sure your eyes will have plenty to feast on as your guide your body through the breath initiated movement of yoga.

We'll begin practice in the shade at 5:30pm Wednesday, August 12 downtown Des Moines just East of the Principal Riverwalk Hub Spot.  The picture below is shown from a Google map search for 215 Water St, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 where I've marked parking in yellow, pathway in green and yoga spot in red.

On street metered parking (yellow) is available on Water Street and the Court Avenue bridge.  You'll walk to the Riverwalk Hub Spot  and travel down the stairs or ramp (shown in the map in green) to our yoga spot (red).  Please note we will not be practicing at The Hub but rather River level or "below" the Hub.  Bring your mat, a towel, and your donation (suggested $10).

BTW - The Hub has a light dinner, beer and wine menu should you choose to make an evening by the river.


Yellow = Parking;   Green = Path;   Red = Yoga Spot

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Shattering Silence on Capitol Grounds - August 6

It's been TOO long... the weather forecast looks to be about perfect for our next Guerilla Yoga class to be held Thursday, August 6.  We've been here before and it's a favorite for many.

Perched on a hill overlooking downtown Des Moines, the Shattering Silence art sculpture is one of the several sights in view from our mat.  The Japanese Bell of Peace and Friendship is also in view.

Let's celebrate peace and friendship with a Holistic Yoga practice at 5:30pm Thursday, August 6.  Free parking is available in the visitor lot of the Iowa Judicial Building (1111 East Court Avenue Des Moines 50319).  In this map, the parking lot is labeled number 26.  Once parked, you'll walk West past the Judicial building and the bell.

We'll be practicing on a cushion of grass under the blue sky beside the Shattering Silence monument pictured below.  I'll be leading a class that connects us to our inner peace.

Suggested donation of $10 may be made by credit card or cash.  Bring your mat, a towel, and an open mind.




Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Guerilla Yoga Cancelled Tonight

Rain rain go away... looks like we need to cancel yoga tonight.  I'll let you know if I can pull a class time together for later this week... comment on this post if you'd like to see a class on Wednesday... perhaps I can move some things around....

Sunday, July 26, 2015

Shade of the Hub Spot - July 28

Views from the Mat
The views to the right share only a fraction of  the beauty of our next Guerilla Yoga location.  With the Court Avenue Bridge and Des Moines River in sight, I'm sure your eyes will have plenty to feast on as your guide your body through the breath initiated movement of yoga.

We'll begin practice in the shade at 5:30pm Tuesday, July 28 downtown Des Moines just East of the Principal Riverwalk Hub Spot.  The picture below is shown from a Google map search for 215 Water St, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 where I've marked parking in yellow, pathway in green and yoga spot in red.

On street metered parking (yellow) is available on Water Street and the Court Avenue bridge.  You'll walk to the Riverwalk Hub Spot  and travel down the stairs or ramp (shown in the map in green) to our yoga spot (red).  Please note we will not be practicing at The Hub but rather River level or "below" the Hub.  Bring your mat, a towel, and your donation (suggested $10).

There's a chance of rain in the forecast.  I'll be sure to post to my Illuminate Yoga Facebook page if I cancel class.


Yellow = Parking;   Green = Path;   Red = Yoga Spot

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Capitol Grounds South of Holocaust Memorial - July 21


Let's try this spot again... this time without the rain.  Tuesday, July 21 we'll be meeting for Guerilla Yoga at 5:30pm on the South side of the Holocaust Memorial on the Iowa Capitol Grounds.  With our mats laid on pavement or on the cushion of grass, our eyes will find views of the golden top Capitol building as well as flowers, memorials and downtown skyscape.  In this parking map, you will find our location for yoga to be North of the West Capitol Terrace.

Bring your yoga mat and a bath towel to be used as a prop.  Call or text Lynn Marie if you have any questions... 515-979-6474.





Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Rainy Day - No Yoga July 15

The pitter patter of rain invites us to slow down and take time to relax.  We will not be having yoga this evening.  I'm concerned Warrior II on a wet mat could lead to bruised bottoms.  ;)

I do encourage you to accept nature's invitation and indulge in a passion of yours indoors or on a deck.  Perhaps reading, cooking or talking to a friend may bring you light to your day.  Another idea I highly recommend is downloading the iOS and Android app Buddhify.  This high quality app has several options for you to be led on a guided relaxation journey.

Whatever your choice... I wish you well this evening and always.

Monday, July 13, 2015

Capitol Grounds South of Holocaust Memorial - July 15

Due to the dip in temperature and potential for clouds, Wednesday looks to be our best day this week for our Holistic Yoga practice.  This week's location provides an option under the clouds or under the trees.  The sun will pick our final spot.

This Wednesday, July 13 we'll be meeting for Guerilla Yoga at 5:30pm on the South side of the Holocaust Memorial on the Iowa Capitol Grounds.  With our mats laid on pavement or on the cushion of grass, our eyes will find views of the golden top Capitol building as well as flowers, memorials and downtown skyscape.  In this parking map, you will find our location for yoga to be North of the West Capitol Terrace.

Bring your yoga mat and a bath towel to be used as a prop.  Call or text Lynn Marie if you have any questions... 515-979-6474.



Tuesday, July 7, 2015

No Guerrilla Yoga - July 7

There will be no yoga tonight. I look forward to sharing another beautiful spot with you next week.

Monday, June 29, 2015

Shattering Silence on Capitol Grounds - June 30

This is my all time favorite location for yoga in Des Moines.  Perched on a hill overlooking downtown Des Moines, the Shattering Silence art sculpture is one of the several sights in view from our mat.  The Japanese Bell of Peace and Friendship is also in view.

Let's celebrate peace and friendship with a Holistic Yoga practice at 5:30pm Tuesday, June 30.  Free parking is available in the visitor lot of the Iowa Judicial Building (1111 East Court Avenue Des Moines 50319).  In this map, the parking lot is labeled number 26.  Once parked, you'll walk West past the Judicial building and the bell.

We'll be practicing on a cushion of grass under the blue sky beside the Shattering Silence monument pictured below.  I'll be leading a class that connects us to our inner peace.

Payment of $10 may be made by credit card or cash.  Bring your mat and an open mind.



Monday, June 22, 2015

Grass Hill by Court Avenue Bridge - June 23

View from the Mat
On my evening walks in the city, I'm looking for the next #GuerillaYogaDM view.  I've been wanting to share this one for a while as it is unassummingly beautiful.

Join me 5:30pm tomorrow night (June 22) for a refreshing holistic yoga practice by the Des Moines River.  We'll lay our mats on the lush grass facing the Union Railway Bridge noted below in red.  From this spot, our ears will delight in the sound of the flowing river.      

The Google map below references 100 East Court Avenue Des Moines.  Metered street parking (noted below in yellow) is available on and near the Court Avenue Bridge.  From the East side of the river, you'll walk toward the flood gate across from the Des Moines Police Station at the corner of the Court Avenue Bridge and 1st Street.  I'll leave my phone (515-979-6474) on until 5:25pm should you have any questions or need additional directions.






Sunday, June 14, 2015

Principal Park Ball Sculpture - June 16

Find your flow 5:30pm Tuesday, June 16 at the next #GuerillaYogaDM class held at the Principal Park Ball Sculpture.

With beautiful views of the Raccoon River, our holistic yoga practice will be surrounded by inspiration.  My favorite pedestrian bridge the Jackson Street Bridge is one of the many in view.

Free parking is available in the main lot of Principal Park (1 Line Drive Des Moines 50309) nearest the river and 2nd Street marked in the map in yellow.  Meet at the ball sculpture pictured in the collage and noted in red on the map below.  Bring your yoga mat, $10 and an open mind.



Monday, June 8, 2015

Union Railway Bridge - June 10

Union Railway Pedestrian Bridge
Let's practice together at 5:30pm Wednesday, June 10.  This Guerilla Yoga class is on the Union Railway Pedestrian Bridge downtown Des Moines.  Feel the gentle breeze and warmth of the sun on your skin as we practice on this beautiful caboose red bridge that serves as a landmark on the Principal Riverwalk.

The bridge is located South of the Court Avenue bridge.  In the map below, you can see the bridge is located between the Residence Inn (100 Water Street Des Moines) & Police Department.  On street metered parking is available and marked on the map with yellow and the bridge in red.  Let's meet halfway across the bridge on the platform with your yoga gear and $10.  Call or text Lynn Marie at 515-979-6474 if you have any questions.

Google Map View

This #GuerillaYogaDM view is uniquely peaceful.  Combined with our yoga practice it inspires and helps to open our eyes and heart.  The pictures don't begin to give it justice.  Let me share it with you in person this Wednesday, June 10.

View from the #GuerillaYogaDM Mat

Monday, May 25, 2015

Des Moines City Hall - May 27

The Des Moines River is high and the current strong creating a view and soundtrack not found in the yoga studio.  A twist won't steal the view but rather turn your attention to the beautiful architecture of City Hall.  Join me for Guerilla Yoga at 5:30pm Wednesday, May 27 on the West side of Des Moines City Hall (400 Robert D. Ray Dr Des Moines, IA 50309)

On street metered parking found on the Grand Avenue and East Locust Street bridges highlighted in yellow below.  Look for the metal art sculpture pictured below on the right.  I'll have my cell (515-979-6474) on until 5:35pm if you have questions.






Monday, May 18, 2015

Spring in Iowa - Week of May 18

We had the most beautiful opening class at Shattering Silence last week.  I was waiting to make this week's Guerilla Yoga location announcement in hopes that the weather would shift toward the warmer side and create a space for another refreshing yoga class.  Unfortunately, Tuesday, May 19 is not looking like the day for taking yoga outside.

If the weather holds to the forecast, I will teach this Thursday, May 21 at a location announced by blog, email and social media posting on Wednesday, May 20. Location hint is in the picture below.  Otherwise I'll share class details next week.

The moral of the story... watch your email for the next class location and date announcement.

One more thing... mark your calendars for the classes I'll be teaching a part of the Park and Recreation programs in Des Moines, West Des Moines and Indianola. Those outdoor class details are posted here.

Sunday, May 10, 2015

Shattering Silence on Capitol Grounds - May 12

It's time to come out of hibernation and take our practice outside.  Perched on a hill overlooking downtown Des Moines, the Shattering Silence art sculpture is one of the several eye catching elements of our next Guerilla Yoga location.  Also in view, the Japanese Bell of Peace and Friendship.

Let's celebrate peace and friendship at 5:30pm Tuesday, May 12.  Free parking is available in the visitor lot of the Iowa Judicial Building (1111 East Court Avenue Des Moines 50319).  In this map, the parking lot is labeled number 26.  Once parked, you'll walk West past the Judicial building and past the bell.

We'll be practicing on a bed of grass under the warm sun beside the Shattering Silence monument pictured below.  I'll be leading a class that restores balance and cultivates peace.

Payment of $10 may be made by credit card or cash.  Bring your mat and an open mind.  Guerilla Yoga... unconventionally fun.


Friday, May 1, 2015

Start Fresh

With our next breath we can start fresh. There's no need to wait for a new day or chapter in your life. Inhale... take in the beauty of this moment. Exhale... release what is weighing you down. Sometimes it's not easy to do in a breath; however, our yoga provides many breaths of opportunity to practice taking in the beauty and releasing what no longer serves.

I encourage you to cleanse yourself of your mistakes and limiting beliefs. There's no need to dwell in the past or cause more pain with words and actions. Forgive and make the best choice right now for you and those near you.

I find with a regular holistic yoga practice I am a better person, friend and lover. Yoga empowers me to reconnect with the present moment. I hope to share these and the many other gifts at a class this summer.

You know I am passionate about helping others. With this energy, I teach a holistic yoga class at a new location downtown Des Moines every week (I call it Guerilla Yoga DM) and volunteer to teach several free outdoor yoga classes. I would love to share the serenity of yoga outside with you this summer.