NYC- TMD and Sobella Sample Sale

Jewelry designer, Tracy Matthews, is having another sample sale so here is your chance to get the jewelry that celebrities like Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon, Halle Berry, Orlando Bloom and David Cooke covet. Enjoy a great savings of 50-90% off her delicate, personal jewelry for women and hip, edgy collections for men. Great time to holiday shop with gifts starting at $ 10.

For women:

Large Hammered and Criss Cross cuffs (as seen in Lucky magazine) regularly $ 45-60, now $ 15-20
Long geometric mixed metal layering Chain Necklaces, regularly $ 200, now $ 60-80
Tons of “grab bag” items for $ 10-20

For men:

Wooden dogtag and oxidized chain necklaces, regularly $80, now $ 30
Sterling silver and wood cufflinks, regularly $ 150, now $ 50
Deconstructed medallion necklace, regularly $ 200, now $ 60

Last Minute Additions! Sobella Handbags at 50% off of retail! You can own these fantastic bags at a fraction of the price!

Details: Thursday December 4th and Friday December 5th
Time: 10 am -7 pm
Location: Tracy Matthews Designs Studio Space
264 Canal Street Loft 6E
New York
Between Broadway and Lafayette
Subway lines: NRQW, 6, ACE, 1

cash and credit card only!

Phone: 212.863.9474

Email: info@tracymatthewsdesigns.com
Website: http://www.tracymatthewsdesigns.com/

Coexist

Its funny, I have been teaching 5 yoga classes a week for the past several months and it seems as though my time to practice has been quite limited. I have made a point to practice in the yoga studio (alone) after my Wednesday morning class. It always seemed like a good idea...there were no classes for at least an hour and a half after mine and the yoga room at Soho is beautiful....its funny how challenges in coexistence can occur even in the most unexpected places.

My first time practicing in the room, I was uninterrupted...so I thought...this is brilliant! Great space, no distractions, music and the great sounds system! What more could I ask for than this?...much better than my tiny living room in which my mat can almost reach from wall to wall.

Second week comes around...I noticed a new maintenance guy vacuuming the tile while I was teaching my class (annoying because the sound is distracting to the students). OK so I say something after class at the front desk and that problem seems to get resolved fairly quickly.

Third week, this is great, until said maintenance guys storms into the yoga studio immediately after class with his shoes on and iPod blaring.

MG: "Excuse me miss, but you are going to have to leave so I can clean the room!"

TM: "But I always practice after class and no one has made me leave before. the next class starts at 10:30!" (surely my tone wasn't as yogic as I would have hoped...he still was not biting)

MG: "I'm sorry but you are gonna have to move when I start mopping and you need to get out of the way so I can straighten out the mats."

OK a little disgruntled, I move my mat so he can do his job...which is all he was really doing anyway, right? I try to stay present and focused while he is humming and whistling away. Try not to get distracted as he rips open the curtains that hide the mirror and turn yoga sanctuary into something closer to a gym room. Shoot...now I am checking myself out in the mirror and fall out of my headstand.

Fourth and Fifth week roll around and I find that I am losing my level of irritation with this man who was just doing his job. I start talking to him nicely and respecting his space. He is not so irritated that he can't mop where my mat lies.

Sixth and Seventh week roll around, "hey miss, I am always amazed at those poses you do" (meaning the advanced asana, etc.), "I can't believe you can actually do that!" My response always, "years of practice."

Eight and ninth week roll around and he is waiting for me (not in a creepy way) but "hey, you weren't here last week". I start to look forward to the test of calming my mind and avoiding the distraction of his blaring hip hop and hard core rap on his iPod.

Now, many weeks into the scenario, I have learned a huge lesson in coexistence. You see, this man was just doing what he was supposed to be doing, his job. Even though it didn't fit into my plan of what worked for me, together we learned that by respecting each other and finding some way to communicate, whether it be through a smile, a hello or a gesture, that we can both do what we need to do and coexist pleasantly.

I "heart" boobs

October is Breast Cancer awareness month! In an effort to support causes that we believe in, TMD is having a fundraiser for Susan G. Komen for the cure. The funds will be raised in honor of Tracy's Grandmother, Margaret, a breast cancer survivor for 20 years (until her death at the age of 91 in 2006).

Purchase this beautiful pink vermeil "heart" necklace and earrings set (retail value of $ 123) for $ 112 and we will donate 10% of the purchase price ($ 11.20) per item to Susan G. Komen.

In addition, we will be donating 10% of our total website sales from October 15-31st.

Thank you so much for your support....cheers to beautiful, healthy breasts!

Removing Obstacles

Om Gan Ganapataye Namo Nama

A sacred chant offered up the the elephant headed deity, Ganesh or Ganapatai. Chanting this phrase over and over is considered a pathway to removing obstacles and reaching the fullest potential, in spirit, in prosperity and in success.

Most of us have prayed in one form or another to take away the things that are holding us back. Usually these things are within our own heads-self doubt, self destructive behavior, constant worry, critical judgements about ourselves and others, not feeling worthy of what we ultimately desire and want in our lives- and the list goes on. Ganesha, the elephant headed deity, represents success, prosperity and peace in all of our endeavors. He is know to be the remover of obstacles in our lives. By invoking Ganesh, it is said to remove the physical and mental blocks that prevent us from reaching our full potential for love, success and abundance. In addition, Ganesh is also the life of the party wherever he goes!

I recently purchased this Hip Hip album that is mixed with sacred chants by leading Kirtan singer call Elephant Power, by MC yogi...I love it...and it cracks me up listening to these hip hop beats with samples from artists such as Bhagavan Das, Jai Uttal and Krishna Das...cracks me up and makes me want to sing out loud...

Jai Ganesha! Rub your belly, breathe away the obstacles and receive what you desire!

Gratitude

In remembrance of September 11, 2001, let's take a moment to remember everything we are blessed with and be grateful for every moment. Life is way too short!

Happiness smappiness....

Here is an excerpt from 'Notes from the universe" from yesterday...

"For those who ponder and wonder and wrestle with the idea of what it is that they really want, I have an answer that each would wholeheartedly agree with:"Happiness."

http://www.tut.com/

In the personal search for happiness, sometimes so much can be lost...and what I mean by that is we spend so much time trying to figure things out most of the time, that we forget to be present and to remember that we have a choice to be happy. I know some of you will disagree with me but we all really do...

The other day, I was grappling with something that was weighing on my mind.....essentially a whole batch of confusing emotions that were swirling...we all know the feeling. I was tired and feeling a little self loathing when I realized that I had nothing to not be happy about. By setting the "stuff" aside for a moment and shifting my perspective to the amazing things that are going really well in my life, I immediately WAS Happy!

Happy, in my opinion is really a state of mind. None of us can change the past, but we can be present and create our own happy future just as we had always hoped for. We need not more than what is right in front of us....and nothing is more powerful and beautiful than that! Let go of expectations and embrace what the universe has to give you.....its as easy as that!

New Beginnings

The change of seasons always offers an incredible opportunity for New Beginnings. Summertime is coming to an end and although we technically have a few more weeks of Summer, Labor day signals the end of the Summer Season for most of us. Here on the East Coast, the change of seasons will happen before any of us truly know it. Soon we will be putting away our summer dresses and pulling out our knee high boots and sweaters.

New Beginnings can symbolize so many things for each of us individually...maybe moving on past a relationship that didn't work, accepting and receiving and new outlook on life or even shedding away the layers and the baggage of whatever you are holding onto. It also offers a new perspective to receive with Love. Marianne Williamson references in her book "Return to Love" that acceptance and forgiveness all come from finding a place of love within each person that we encounter. It may be a love relationship, a family relationship or even a friendship that has you in a twist. Once we are able to approach anyone from a place of love, we can find healing regardless of the distress, discomfort or pain that we have felt in relation to another. With this comes the ultimate freedom that anyone can have....letting go and starting over!

By Starting over, we naturally let go of the past. With letting go comes emotional freedom. And with that emotional freedom, anything can happen....Happy Birthday!

Namaste

Namaste literally translates as "the light within me acknowledges the light within you." A simple gesture and statement, sometimes finding our own light can seem daunting when our mind tells us otherwise.

Marianne Williamson says it well in her book "A Return to Love"

-'We get in life that which we focus on. Continual focus on darkness leads us as individuals and as a society, further into darkness. Focus on the light brings us into the light.

"I accept the Christ* (light) within" means, " I accept the beauty within me as who I really am. I am not my weakness. I am not my anger. I am not my small mindedness. I am much, much more. And I am willing to be reminded of who I really am."-

By focusing on our lightness and the truth of who we really are, true happiness and peace are abundant and available to all of us. We are all pure and perfect at the core of our being and by recognizing this essence we all have a unique opportunity to realize something truly beautiful, devoid of what are mind is telling us and what the world tries to dictate.

Yoga for accepting and embracing the lightness within you-

Sit in a comfortable seat and place the right hand on the energetic center of your heart (anahata chakra) place the left hand over the right. Close your eyes and breath into your heart center. Finding love and compassion for yourself is the key to happiness.

*Christ in this context refers to the light within us and does not denote a religious connotation.

Forgive to Live

Forgiveness is a heavy word...not just for the implication of what it means, but for the energy that is usually surrounding it. I had a dear friend who I had lost touch with recently say to me...."thank you for forgiving me".... for events that had transpired years and years ago. I stepped back for a moment when I heard this and thought about it. Yes, we had not spoken in many years (at least in the way this conversation developed) but forgiveness now???? I hadn't really thought about it in so long, because I had forgiven this person ages ago.

So why was it so important for me or for anyone to forgive? Especially, when there is no guarantee or even hope that you will ever see or speak to someone again in your life! I believe forgiveness is a path to freedom. We have all have witnessed people in our own lives that literally spend a majority of their time holding grudges against people who have done them wrong and have literally wasted their energy feeling bad about something that happened in the past. I am not proposing that you ignore your emotional process, but why hate, despise and fester when the only person that it is holding back and hurting is you???


I realized this many years ago after my life dramatically changed and my reality became something completely new and different. My new reality was born out of heart ache and pain....as I went through my emotional process, I immediately realized that the only person that was being hurt by not forgiving was ME! You see, the other parties don't ever feel your pain....as much as we would like them too, not so much. You are the only one who feels your pain....and the grudges and the anger....so unless you have magical powers, put away your voodoo doll.


What's not to forgive?...we are all human and all make mistakes, some bigger than others. The important thing is that we are sentient beings with the ability to learn from our mistakes (and other people's), forgive the pain that we have been dealt and to truly be free to LIVE an abundant and joyful life. Do whatever you need to do to get there....forgive yourself, forgive someone else, and you will find that you be truly LIVING, happy and free.


Find some compassion...try Supta Baddha Konasana to connect with anahata chakra (the heart center) and release tension and anger in the hips....a perfect pose to open yourself up to forgiveness.

Great!

My grandfather past away this last year and I have written about him before...today when I was getting my morning coffee before I went in to teach my Wednesday morning class, I was thinking about his fantastic optimistic attitude. Whenever anyone asked him how he was, he always shouted with resounding joy, "GREAT!" Just like Tony the Tiger. In his later years, with failing health, he perpetuated this sentiment when he could no longer speak...by knocking his large knuckles on a table...his new symbol of "Great!"

I reminisce about this for several reasons....you see, living with an optimistic and positive focus in life can considerably change everything around you. My grandfather was faced with adversity throughout his life, as well as, great abundance. Regardless of what he was faced with at any given time, he was always "Great!"

If you were to just start your day feeling great and shifting your focus to even say that you are great, maybe, just maybe you will feel great and then everything seems to fall into place. Depending on your beliefs, we only have this one life to live so why not make the best out of every moment....let go of what holds you back, forgive, be free, live with compassion and make a difference....even if only for yourself! Great things will come!

Notes on a Scandal....

Today, I am grateful that the universe ejects things out of my life that distract me from my goals, purpose and desires....Tracy Matthews

Yes, I just quoted myself....hilarious. I talk about the shedding and releasing of old patterns here and in my yoga classes all of the time....sometimes this wisdom is VERY difficult to put into practice while you are in any given situation. I am REALLY hard on myself most of the time...but also extremely compassionate. Today when I was teaching, frustrated that my iPod was being temperamental....I felt as if I was losing it...just for a sec...and after calming down realized that this was all in relation to some outside frustration, resistance to surrender and a rebirth that has been happening within me. You see, the universe keeps reminding me of my old patterns and my desires to seek what is comfortable rather than what I truly want.

So, after a second of collecting myself, I went inside myself and although I forgot all of the profound things I was going to say to the students, I ended up teaching a great class....and offered my blessing and offering of gratitude to them...I am grateful today that the universe ejects things out of my life that distract me from my goals, purpose and desires (bruised ego and all). I ended class with a round of kapalabhati breathing or cleansing breath to clear the mind and cleanse the soul.

I have learned my lesson....thank you for sharing....time to move on!

Interview with Tracy Matthews

I was just interviewed for the max and chloe website....thought I would share it with you....

Have you always wanted to design things?

I can’t say always…..but when I was a little girl I used to draw all of the time and thought that I wanted to design wedding dresses. I found my passion for jewelry design when I was in my early 20’s in college after taking a jewelry fabrication class.

How did you decide to become a jewelry designer?

Once I realized I had some talent (see above question), my jewelry instructor at LMU began mentoring me, so to speak. I quickly began selling my jewelry to friends and family and decided that this was my passion and dream.

What is your favorite creation?

Currently, my rose-cut cocktail rings….although every season it differs. The most classic and longstanding designs that I have designed are my collection of hoop earrings. Most are simple and basic, but they are so wearable….I wear hoops every day.

How would you describe your jewelry?

Delicate and personal! I am inspired by nature, vintage jewelry and art, but a lot of my ideas come out of my yoga teaching and practice. Strange things happen when you are fueling creative energy. My hope is that clients collect my jewelry. My friends and regulars still wear jewelry from my first collections (over 9 years ago) usually layered with pieces from the newest collections.

How did you get started?

After college, I moved from LA to San Francisco….and put my desire to start my business on hold for a bit. With the encouragement of friends and family, I had made a decision that I wanted to design jewelry full time and one day quit my job in retail and created my first collection. Within a few months, I was in several stores and hired my first employee…that was 9 years ago.

Who do you admire?

Has this helped you in your career path? There are so many people that I admire that it is difficult to choose one…people like Ghandi and Audrey Hepburn have always inspired me….but on a more intimate level…I think I have always been inspired by my grandparents for many reasons. Mainly because my grandmother was the person who ran the ship in my mother’s household (she had 12 children who then spawned 55 grandchildren and too many great grand children to count) and my grandfather started a restaurant empire with nothing more than a 8th grade education. In addition, they were people of great faith, charity and conviction. They lived their lives in alignment with their values which I feel is something that is faltering in our society. Although my beliefs are different than theirs, I would like to think that these fundamental values are things that I aspire to as an entrepreneur, business owner, yoga instructor and someone who believes in the importance of giving back to society.

Have you ever expressed yourself through another path apart from jewelry design?

Yes, I am also a yoga instructor (currently at Equinox Fitness in NYC) and for me this is a true expression of creativity on a fundamental level. I love inspiring people. The expansion of personal growth that I have experienced is beyond words and I just hope that I can motivate my student to find that type of growth and creativity in themselves. I also write a blog that was originally supposed to be about jewelry and things going on at TMD…but has definitely turned into something else. It was recently picked up by a fantastic website that mentors and inspires women called http://www.realbeautyis.com/. You can view my blog at http://tracymatthewsdesignsinc.blogspot.com/

Where did you grow up? Where did you go to college, and what did you study?

I grew up in the “OC” (Newport Beach, California)! Most people would never guess by meeting me. I received a BA in European Studies, Cum Laude, from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.

Can you describe your favorite piece of jewelry from your childhood?

Anything in my mothers jewelry box….but when I was older, my Laurel Birch enamel earrings….so strange since I don’t even know if she is around anymore…but loved, loved them in the 6th grade.

Where do you travel to?

Anywhere that I can….India, Mexico, New Zealand, Hawaii, South America, Europe (all over) and Sun Valley, ID! I am going to Buenos Aires in December and cannot wait!

What inspires you in everyday life?

There are so many things that inspire me…so I will list them…My sister, Carlie (she works with me), and my friends. They are a great support system, always keep me on path and grounded when I waver and have the best advice when I am stuck.

My Yoga Practice…I have been practicing yoga for 13 years and teaching for 5….it brings me so much joy and I always feel better after…no matter what.

Gratitude….I try to be grateful every day for what I have…because often times things don’t go our way, and it is really easy to get stuck in a slump….and I am not saying that I never get stuck there…I just prefer to celebrate the fantastic things in my life…

Music, laughter and dancing….I walk to work everyday with my iPod on usually singing out loud and dancing….and then I laugh at myself when people look at me funny!

What is the most important thing you have learned about who you are since you've started to pursue your dream of designing jewelry?

I have learned that “I am who I am” and not what the market indicates. I do not design “Fashion Jewelry” as translated by the fashion market. My jewelry is collectible, personal and delicate and I decided to stop trying to be something different than that.

How would you describe your ideal jewelry?

Layers and layers of necklaces….delicate, simple and easy.

What is your favorite piece of jewelry?

Besides the pieces that I have that were once my mothers, vintage or ethnic (purchased on my travels)…..My recycled gold and rose-cut diamond necklace from my fine jewelry collection and Hoops…I have at least 20 pairs and have designed at least 50 styles of hoops since I started my business.

What is your favorite trend?

My own personal style…not a trend but I just said that I don’t design “trend” jewelry

What do you hope to accomplish as a jewelry designer?

Long term, I hope to develop a business that has a standard practice of giving back to communities and charities. I am moving my company in an ethical direction, developing my line from sustainable and fair trade materials and resources. I also hope to merge my worlds as yoga instructor, philanthropist and designer into something bigger than just being a company that sells jewelry.

Notes on Clarity

The only way to get what you really want, is to know what you really want.
And the only way to know what you really want, is to know yourself.
And the only way to know yourself, is to be yourself.
And the only way to be yourself, is to listen to your heart.
I do, The Universe

I subscribe to this daily email service call "Notes from the Universe" and admittedly, the website is a little hokey, but the message is so very clear. I am always amazed at how perfect the timing is for the strangely profound messages.....they always come just when needed....

In my usual process of self analysis, I often have to pause for a moment and remove myself from my current situation in order to gain the clarity I need to make choices that move me in the direction of finding and receiving what I truly want. Sometimes, these choices aren't so much choices made even by myself, but choices made by others.....but the universe has a powerful way of ejecting things out of our lives that can hold us back from what we want.

I truly believe that we always know what is good a right for us and what moves us in the direction of our desires...but often we don't listen to what our gut is telling us and we make choices that aren't in line with what we need. Finding clarity is often the pathway to remove the obstacles that stand in front of what we truly desire and want....In listening to our heart, we are always able to be ourselves, and in knowing ourselves, we are able to truly define what we really want, and once we know what we want, we can finally have the capacity and the ability to receive it!

When all is said and done, there is nothing more empowering and beautiful than knowing what you want and actually going for it!...without reservation or shame.....it is the only way to living the life of your dreams and staying true to your heart. Get clear, listen to your heart and follow your dream!

Breaking the pattern

Have you ever wondered what holds any of us back from getting what we want, need, desire? Without getting too deep into the deepest parts of our psyches, I am clearly reminded (almost daily) of how my past is working in the present. The stories that my parents told me about finances, relationships and life (whether they realized they were telling me these stories or not) continue to resurface in one way or another in my adult life....it is CRAZY!

This is a pivotal time for many of us in the universe at this moment.....recession, lost money and homes, increasing debt across the board...its freaking scary. On top of that, add personal and emotional issues that can break or grow deeper during times like these....everyone is dealing with a ton of baggage...trunks and trunks so to speak!

So...in these times, how is it possible for any of us to stay sane and allow what the universe has to offer to come to us? Sometimes I am not sure, but other times I truly believe that in allowing ourselves to receive, we face a profound opportunity for change...often times it just means taking a look inside to determine what it is that you truly want, and how the patterns of your past affect you today. Without blame or fault, identifying what is holding you back can catapult you forward....so stop the pattern...you deserve whatever it is that you seek.

Personally, I have been working in this space and once I identified why I was making poor choices and actually addressed it, the outcome that I desired came to me out of seemingly no where. These little jewels land all around us and we all have the opportunity to learn, grow and find what we want just by breaking the pattern....

In a gesture of offering and receiving, come to a comfortable seat and open your palms face up towards the heavens...

Life and Legacy

In this practice that we call life, we are often left to consider the legacy that we might leave behind. Personally, I have been considering this question for many years....you see, often times your life can move in unforeseen directions, quickly and unexpectedly, and often all we are left with is ourselves and our place on this earth. Earlier this year, my 90 year old grandfather passed away. An incredible man, he transcended his humble upbringing as the son of Ohio farmers and moved to California to build a restaurant empire with little knowledge, education and, for sure, no money. Although he was an extremely successful person throughout his life, he never forgot what his values were and what was important to him. Over the years he earned and lost his fortune, but what always stayed with him was a certain type of respect.

At both of my grandparents funeral's (my grandmother passed away 18 months prior to my grandfather), the things that people spoke about were deep and real....their strong values rooted in their unwavering faith, family values, philanthropic goals, business relationships and strong willed determination. With that being said, the superficial was not mentioned....it was all about the love, conviction and passion for the lives that they led.

So we are left with the question of the what, how and why? How do we want to be remembered???.....life is too short to be caught on the surface...many of us are struggling economically in this down market and watched our fortune slip away. But like the market fluctuates and changes, remembering that change is the only thing that we can count on might help us stay aligned with what we really want in our lives, what we want to be known for and how we want to REALLY live.

I think of some of the famous people in this world who have the MOST money....Bill Gates and Oprah are the first 2 that come to mind...although it might be foolish to say that people won't remember that they were wealthy, what I can say that they WILL be remembered for is the good that they do...both Bill gates and Oprah are so dedicated to living a life aligned in accordance to their values...so much so that (and I might be modest in numbers here) hundreds of thousands of people's lives have been changed and affected by their philanthropy, mentoring and vision. They had a choice....hoard their money and keep it to themselves and do their job but otherwise escape from their power to make an impact in the world OR use their wealth not only for themselves, but to make a difference in the world and align with what is good for humanity.

Don't get me wrong...money really has nothing to do with it...no one will remember that you were the richest person on the block or that your abs were the super ripped, or even that you can float a handstand in the middle of a yoga room unsupported....what they will remember is the impact you had on their lives and how you lived your life.....and if they only remember you for the superficial than I am sorry for you...

Today, I challenge you to live your life with conviction and passion, open your mind and consider new things, do something kind for someone else, be a friend (truly and deeply) and make a difference, life is way too short! What are you waiting for? Its not too late!

Fearlessness

Fear can be overwhelming and inhibiting at times.....regardless of what you are afraid of, it is often the main driving force and motivator in our lives. It can be debilitating....worry about finances (especially in today's economy), relationships, acceptance, health and wellness, body image, self esteem....all rolled up into a ball they can hover creating overwhelming anxiety and stress that can seem like a black hole.

What if instead of the worry and anxiety, we were able to shift our perspective, celebrate and attack the the fear and consider solutions as to how we can embrace the fear (not run away from it), step outside of our situations and create a positive outcome to whatever might be holding us back. Sometimes this shift is all we need to attract a solution or a healthy fearless situation...

In my yoga practice over the years, many poses have generated great fear. Overcoming the fear of practicing these poses has helped me become more fearless in my own life. Just knowing the I can stand on my hands or drop back into a hand stand without breaking a limb, herniating a disc or killing myself, is so empowering and reminds me that if I can do this...anything is possible and the rest begins to lose its grip on me.

For you today...poses to reduce fear and create fearlessness!

1. Urdva Danurasana (wheel pose/ "eka pada (one legged)" variation show above)- lay on your back with your knees bent and your feet no wider (or narrower) than hip distance apart. Place your hands underneath your shoulder blades and squeeze your elbows closer together so they are in line with your shoulders. Inhale, come to the crown of your head. Exhale, straighten your arms into wheel. If you are open and warm, try drawing your right knee into your chest and straighten your right leg towards the ceiling. repeat on the left side.

2. Eka pada Rajokapotasana or Pigeon pose-come into downward facing dog pose (inverted "v" pose). Inhale your right leg to the ceiling for down dog splits. Exhale, swing your right leg forward in between your hands so that the shin is coming towards parallel to the front of your mat. Your right knee is close to your right wrist and your right foot is close to your left wrist. Inhale lift your heart and lengthen the spine, exhale fold forward. Repeat on the left side. If you have tight hips, you can place a blanket underneath your right hip to level the hips. alternate variation: lay on your back and cross your right ankle over your left knee. Interlace your fingers underneath the left knee cap and draw the leg closer to your body. breath. repeat on the other side.

3. Hand stand- come into downward facing dog close to a wall so that your finger tips are spread wide and your middle finger is facing directly towards the wall. walk your feet as close to your hands as possible. With the left knee slightly bent, spring forward and up with your right leg. Using the wall for support and your arms straight, come into hand stand. Switch legs to come up and repeat. Breath.

In all of these poses, overwhleming feelings might come up, fear, sadness and self doubt or maybe even exhilaration, happiness and joy ....this is normal, nothing to run away from and the power of a successful yoga practice. Breath into the space, cry if you need to and let go of the pain (literally and figuratively).

Namaste!

Liberty and Justice for All

Important things often come in small packages. My cousin's daughter, Justice, is one of those "things." Well, actually, she is a brilliant woman at such a young age. Her passion for life and her conviction in her beliefs is so apparent at such an early age...she is only 9.....(8 when this was filmed).

I would like to share with you one of the most impressive things I have ever seen from someone so young. Justice is truly a leader and a visionary...I can only imagine the woman she will grow into some day. She is wise beyond her years and a role model for me, 28 years her senior! And although this is more about human interest and saving lives, she is political as well. The daughter of politically conservative parents, Justice is a huge Obama supporter. When I was her age, I was "rooting" for whoever my parents were "rooting" for...(which happened to be Reagan)!

Justice wrote this letter to the president as a project for her second grade class. It was submitted to a national competition and she was then hand selected to read the letter on stage at a Spearhead concert. You can see the actual video at the end of the blog...

Dear President,

Hi President...how are you? Well, war kills people and a lot of people have died already. We learn to talk to each other to solve our problems in my second grade class. Can't presidents of countries do that too?

If you believe that we must have war, I was thinking that the people at war could use water guns, those really big ones. It would be better, and whoever gets soaked is out. The other team wins. I'm just thinking, and I'm still a kid....if you don't like the idea, that's fine with me. I will understand.

Maybe presidents could choose teams to help you and you guys could have a water gun fight. This would save a lot of people from being killed.

From a concerned citizen,

Justice (second grader)


If it were possible to just teach our children to have this level of interest and conviction at such a young age, maybe the future of our country and our universe has a fighting chance! Justice for President!

Justice is a featured in the real beauty is forum on http://www.realbeautyis.com/

Get to know yourself...

Knowing others is intelligence;
Knowing yourself is true wisdom.
Mastering others is strength;
Mastering yourself is true power.

If you realize that you have enough,
you are truly rich.
If you stay in the center
and embrace death with your whole heart,
you will endure forever.

Chapter 33, Tao te Ching- translated by Stephen Mitchell

I am on my way to teach this morning and I felt inspired to write beforehand....it is interesting because I have been reading this passage in my classes on and off fo the past couple of weeks.

We have all been there, tying to figure out someone we are in some sort of relationship, whether it be a family relationship, a business relationship, a romantic relationship, even a friendship. Over time we feel as though we get to know these people really well. Often times, I find myself in situations where I am trying to figure out the motivation behind what someone is doing.....usually in a situation of conflict. When we are able to step back and take a look at ourselves and our reaction in the situation, often times if offers an opportunity for amazing growth and a deeper exploration of our true selves.

Getting to truly know yourself is a difficult process.....our ego always gets involved and our "monkey mind" often tells us lies. Through self exploration, breath and meditation we may find that we come closer to seeing our truth and who we really are....and what we all are???? Fantastic, brilliant beings, full of love and hope....and when you really connect with who you really are, the rest of the "stuff" seems to lose power and melt away!

Summer Yoga Schedule so far!

Hi Folks...here is my summer teaching schedule so far...starting with today. I am teaching a ton. For private lessons, you can always email me at tracy@tracymatthewsdesigns.com. All teaching is at Equinox locations around Manhattan. More July dates to certainly follow!

Every Wednesday Morning, Vinyasa (all Levels) 7:30 am to 8:30 am Soho Equinox

June 17th, Yoga basics, 5:30 - 6:30 pm, Columbus Circle

June 23rd, Mellow Vinyasa, 7 am- 8 am, Chelsea (17th and 10th)

June 24th, Yoga Basics, 5:30-6:30 pm, Columbus Circle

June 28th, Vinyasa, 10-11:30 am Tribeca
June 28th , Vinyasa, 11:30 am -1 pm, Tribeca

June 29th, Power Vinyasa, 5-6:30pm Soho

June 30th, Mellow Vinyasa, 7am-8am, Chelsea (17th and 10th)
June 30, Vinyasa Level 2, 7:30-8:45 pm, Greenwich Ave

July 2nd, Vinyasa, 6 pm- 7 pm, Brooklyn Heights

July 5th, Power Vinyasa, 9:30-11 am, Soho
July 5th, Vinyasa, 12-1:30, Brooklyn Heights

August 9th, Power Vinyasa, 9:30am to 11 am, Soho
August 9th, Vinyasa, 11:30-1 pm Chelsea

August 16th, Power Vinyasa, 9:30am to 11 am, Soho
August 16th, Vinyasa, 11:30-1 pm Chelsea

August 23rd, Power Vinyasa, 9:30am to 11 am, Soho
August 23rd, Vinyasa, 11:30-1 pm Chelsea

August 30th, Power Vinyasa, 9:30am to 11 am, Soho
August 30th, Vinyasa, 11:30-1 pm Chelsea

Feel Good Please!

I'm Baaackkkk.....I took a long hiatus from writing...my bad, but I am back and writing again...hopefully much more frequently than that past few months!

I sometimes wonder why I continually torture myself doing something/ anything that does not make me feel good. We call them necessary evils....paying bills, revolved triangle pose and the necessary dealings with difficult people....OK so I guess we SOMETIMES have to do things that we don't like and that don't make us feel good....

I got a marketing newsletter in my inbox this morning that spoke about how most of our income is generated from 20 percent of our work/ stores/ accounts/ collection, etc. and that the tendency for most of us is to spend most of our time focusing on the 80 percent (see division above) that is NOT going right. Well, I think that a lot of us do that with things that don't make us feel good either....it is almost like self torture....the dwelling on the negative thoughts in our head....the anxiety over paying the bills....my sciatic nerve and tight right hip in revolved triangle pose (it was a tough one this morning! Thanks Adam!)...and the unpleasant customer who is so draining.....

A friend of mine said to me years and years ago when I was going through a divorce...."all any of us want is to be happy anyway, right?" Although this comment is taken slightly out of context...isolated it is what should all be aiming for and practicing. I think about that moment often in different circumstances, especially because so much of my energy at that time....probably MORE than 80 percent, was focused on something that did not make me feel good at all....

Here is the thought for the day.....deal with the difficult stuff (my sister is on my arse everyday about this), but focus on what makes you feel good..... go have fun, makeout, eat ice cream, sing a song....so much fun! I bet you anything you will be happy if you do! OK, so revolved triangle....I'll give you a try again tomorrow!

I Know This Much is True...

I have spoken about living your truth before.....and I have always found that sometimes finding your truth and living truthfully to yourself...are 2 different things...

Yesterday, I asked my yoga students to find the truth in their breath...vague..I know...but by breaking down truth to the fundamentals of physiology....breathing, we are able to take a step back and connect what is ultimately our truth and inner self. Deep breathing and pranayama is cleansing and can help anyone focus and remove the fog that is clouding truth.

Recently, I was faced with a situation where I felt disrespected. By continuing on the path that I was traveling, I was not aligning my situation with my truth or my values. It took a moment to step back and realize what had happened, but by fine tuning what is important to me and realizing that this was not my truth or what I wanted, I was able to be honest with myself and move forward. At times, it is easy get lost in the details of a situation without have the ability to see these details as part of a big picture scenario and vice versa....but...by defining your truth and knowing what is important at your ultimate core, it is much easier to live your truth...and breath.

Shoot for the Stars

Goals Goals Goals....we here about it all the time...how are you to ever reach your expectations of you don't have goals, otherwise known as a vision, to focus on. We have all heard about it...envisioning what you want....but how do we create the path to actually get there????? Herein lies the question.

I have spent my life creating goals, often without focus or vision....typical Gemini and creative/ Type A personality. I have known what I want in life since I was younger and I think it is hilarious that even after all this time I still want the same thing, but just in a different way. My paths have wavered and I have often shifted off course....but have found that shooting for the stars has always been the thing that has kept me going.

Shoot for the stars or the moon or your goals....keep it going and things will shift. Create a plan, stay the course and your goals will be achieved! the life of your dreams is just around the corner...now if I could just implement this...

Reinvention

When you find yourself inspired by some great purpose or
some extraordinary project
all your thoughts break their bonds
your mind transcends limitations
you consciousness expands in every direction
and you find yourself to be in a great new wonderful place.

Dormant forces, faculties and talents come alive
and you find yourself to be a greater person by far then you ever dreamed yourself to be.


-Patanjali

I love this passage by Patanjali...it always reminds me that when I am stuck, there is always a possibility for rebirth and renewal. It is so fantastic to get on the other side...we have all been there....Get inspired and get unstuck....the opportunities for reinvention are always around the horizon, but most times, right in front of you!

Yoga Schedule

Come to Class...Here is my teaching schedule for the next couple of weeks. All Classes at Various Equinox Locations!

Every Wednesday Morning, Soho, Vinyasa all levels, 7:30 am to 8:30 am

Wednesday, April 30th, Greenwich Ave, 5 pm to 6:30 pm, Ashtanga (primary series)

Saturday, May 3rd, Tribeca, 10 am to 11:30 am Vinyasa- all levels
Saturday, May 3rd, Tribeca, 11:30 am to 1:00 pm Vinyasa- all levels

Tuesday, May 6th, Soho, 6:30 pm to 8 pm, Ashtanga (primary series)

Thursday, May 8th, Tribeca, 9:30 am to 10:30 am, Ashtanga (1/2 primary series)

Saturday, May 10th, 63rd and Lex, 10 am to 11:30 am, Vinyasa

Tuesday, May 13th, Tribeca, 6:30 pm to 8 pm, Vinyasa

Wednesday, May 14th, Greenwich Ave, 5 pm to 6:30 pm, Ashtanga (primary series)

Saturday, May 17th and May 24th, Brooklyn Heights, 11 am to 12:30 Vinyasa 2/3

Monday, May 19th Chelsea, (17th and 10th), 7:30pm to 9pm, Vinyasa

Monday May 26th, 9 to 11:30 Tribecca, vinyasa

Wednesday, May 28th, Greenwich Ave, 5 pm to 6:30 pm, Ashtanga (primary series)

Stop Working So Hard...

You got me workin' workin' day and night....Michael Jackson

Today I received this in my inbox....

"Ever notice, Tracy, how when you stop trying to make something work that hasn't been working, new stuff appears and starts working?

It's the coolest thing.... The Universe"

I subscribe to a daily email called Notes from the Universe and they are great.....sometimes a little quirky and in a sense, keep me scratching my head, but usually just what I need when I get it...today's note was just what I needed to shift my perspective...you see we all face these challenges of trying to continue forward with old patterns and ways of thinking that often don't serve us anymore. No matter how forward thinking we are, often times it is hard to break free....until something happens to open your eyes.

A few weeks ago I was at my dear friend's wedding in New Orleans. This was my first time in NOLA and definitely my first time encountering Southern Tradition....another story. Thankfully, I was sat next to the groom's cousin who is an inspiring film maker/ writer/ actress....her next gig....interviewing people about "AHA" moments...and what actually wakes us up to make the changes necessary to move forward in our lives. She asked me this question..."what have been some of your AHA moments?"....I have had so many that I could not even think of one!

Over the years, I feel like I have worked so hard for everything I have wanted and desired, often successfully and sometimes unsuccessfully. I am one of those....loves a challenge. But why do we/ me/ I or any of us have to truly work that hard to move in circles? So when you are spinning....and making no movement, maybe its just time to let go and stop trying to make things work that just aren't working any more (or were maybe never working in the first place). Shouldn't it just be easy? The movement starts and "AHA" this is what it's supposed to be like....just what I needed at the perfect time.

So even though letting go of the non-working elements of our lives often lead to sadness and discomfort...and most likely...disappointment, we can all have faith in knowing that something that does work is just around the corner if and when you let it happen....and who knows...you might even be a lot happier.

I am so grateful for these moments, every day and in every way! Happy Monday!

TMD sample sale tonight

Tracy Matthews Designs NYC Sample Sale
Great gifts for Mother's Day, Graduation and Yourself!

Enjoy a fantastic selection of Gold vermeil, Sterling Silver
and one-of-a-kind 14K and 18K gold jewelry at 40-80% off of retail!

Gold Plated Cuffs, Gemstone Earrings, Hoops, Statement Necklaces, Great Bracelets and Men's jewelry

Recently TMD jewlery has been featured in InStyle (Feb 2008),
Lucky (March 2008) and Self (Cover April 2008).
Recent Celeb sightings include American Idol Stars
David Cooke, Carley Smithson and Kristi Lee Cook!

Join us for Wine and Snacks
Thursday April 24th 4 pm to 9 pm
and
Friday April 25th, 11am to 7pmSaturday April 26th, 10am to 4pm
264 Canal Street, Loft 6E
Between Broadway and Lafayette
Near the 6,N,R,Q,W Trains
For more info call 212.414.4085
We accept cash and all major credit cards!
Check out the collection online at....http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yqnvlcab.0.0.uaf4g7bab.0&ts=S0332&p=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tracymatthewsdesigns.com%2F&id=preview

Idol Worship!

David Cooke wearing TMDmen Crown necklace!
Carley Smithson wearing the smooth cuff and long ribbon necklace (tied)
Kristy Lee Cook wearing TMD criss cross cuff



All items available for purchase on http://www.tracymatthewsdesigns.com/ even better with our friends and family sale until April 14th....enter code FF2008 at checkout!

Respect the Land- Respect yourself

In the words of the Hawaiian locals..."repect the land, respect yourself"....profound really...by taking care fo the land, we are essentially taking care of ourselves and our future. Such a simple signpost says volumes about how we should all live on this earth!

On my recent adventure to Kona for a friend's wedding, Rob, Maaren and I took, what we thought would be a short, easy jaunt to view the Petroglyph ancient carvings in Mauna Lani. Their meaning is uncertain, but these mystical carvings in the volcanic rock were certainly messages from the ancient inhabitants...no one knows their significance, but it is apparent that whatever the meaning, there is power behind them and the backing of the gods...

During our initial venture off to the carvings, I read a sign which mentioned: do not take anything or leave anything behind- these are sacred grounds and please wear appropriate footwear! The .5 mile walk seemed easy for 3 athletic individuals...heed the warnings- we have learned. Within 5 steps, I had stubbed my toe which bled for hours, Rob banged his head on a low lying tree (oozing clear liquid for a day) and Maaren pulled out several thorns out of her foot....I am not sure what we did to the god of the Petroglyph- PELE (pronouced Paylay)- but something was certainly shifted. Upon further investigation and a second "bump" from his United Airlines flight, Rob was informed that we must make amends with Pele or our wounds would continue to suffer....the offering, local Hawaiian Vodka...we aren't sure if the joke was on us, but, magically, we are no longer suffering!

Regardless of the debacle, the trip was amazing and Kona is fantastic! Pele- thanks for your healing!

Aloha!

Greetings from Hawaii! Kona...the little that I have seen of this Volcanic Island, is amazing! I am not sure what it is, but getting to a place like this really allows me the opportunity to decompress and sit with myself...often difficult for most of us to do and proving to be quite difficult for me, as well...just a work in progress.

Note the pictures here of the girls at the Fairmont Orchid and my attempt at a handstand on lava rock...

mahalo...hopefully surfing tomorrow!

Lucca Lucca...

Welcome welcome baby Lucca Regina Miller....

Super exciting news...my sister, Nikki, had her baby 2 weeks early while I was in SoCal....this precious little girl weigh in at 7 lbs 8 oz and 19 inches long....super long fingers and feet!

Proud big sis Siena Ray has gotten over the initial shock of a new baby invading her space and has graduated to a big girl bed! Siena and Lucca are named after sister cities in Italy....the Miller sisters are going to knock the boys out when they grow up...watch out!

City by the bay-e-ayyy

When the lights go down in the city

and the sun shines on the bay

I want to be there in my city

ohh ohh ohh

so you think you're lonely

well my friend I'm lonely too!

I wanna get back to my city by the bayyyyy

ohh ohh ohh

-Journey

Oh it is so great to be back to my city by the bay! The chill in the air...the fabulous organic food...the social and personal awareness of the people here...the AMAZING people and my great friends here....the damp air that makes it feel colder than NY even though it is 30 degrees warmer...the quick moving fog that can turn the most beautiful of days into a grey fog disaster...purple houses...don't get me wrong...I love NY but there is something about San Francisco that just brings me back to center...maybe it is the chill in the damp air, my daily walks or runs down to the GG bridge or catching up with my old and lifelong friends that reminds me of why I am here....in this city and who I am in this world.

There is definitely a reason why everyone should live in SF at some point in their life....and come back later in their life. It is rich...full of creativity, outdoor-si-ness, mellowness and crazy party scene combined (I witnessed and interesting Tuesday night), fantastic culture and architecture and amazing yoga and fitness (I have never come across more tri-athletes...ever) ! I love miss love this place.....but love miss love NYC too...why can't I live in both cities...

welcome to the world Lucca Miller...can't wait to meet you tomorrow...xo!

Ch-ch-changes

Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the strain)
Ch-ch-Changes
Don't want to be a richer man
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes
(Turn and face the strain)
Ch-ch-Changes
Just gonna have to be a different man
Time may change me
But I can't trace time
-David Bowie

Happy Spring everyone...the vernal equinox has happened followed by a full moon tonight...it is a powerful time! Spring is here and the seasons are changing...what an amazing time for growth! It is no coincidence that everything seems to flourish in the springtime-people, animals and plants & flowers come out of hibernation, the skies open up and nourishing rain pours down to sustain all life on the planet, the weather is warmer, the air is lighter and the colors are brighter.

It is a well know fact the nothing is permanent in this life....babies are born, loved ones die, our relationships evolve and either grow or disappear...fortunes are won and lost....natural disasters occur that devastate entire populations and then communities rebuild and develop....the only thing that any of us can ever count on is CHANGE! Spiritual leaders and great sages talk about it- we hear about it constantly in literature and music - media channels are flooded with it- talk of change- CHANGE is the only CONSTANT in life, and therefore the only thing we can truly count on!

Often times, along with change and growth comes great difficulty and work. Change is always for the better- regardless of your ability to see it at the time. Unfortunately, it often is accompanied by unpleasant and sometimes devastating feelings- pain, suffering, anxiety, stress, potential freak outs...yes we have all been there and often still go there. Regardless of the difficulties- change is glorious! You will most definitely look back and be grateful for what you have learned in your difficult times and that the changes you take on in your life have certainly led you to grow and become more conscious and aware...embrace it...it may be a bumpy ride for awhile but the smooth sailing on the other side is incredibly glamorous! The best part is during the sailing...you have an opportunity to experience so much joy and happiness...isn't that fantastic?

Living Your Truth....

Why is it that we digress in life and do the opposite of what we really need to do to take care of ourselves? We all have had times in our lives when we feel as though we are not living according to our values...we say we want one thing but clearly do another. We makes bargains with ourselves in the hopes that next time we will be honest and live our truth. We give into our desires because they make us feel better rather than doing the work to make the changes we need to grow and heal......

The change of season signifies so much more that spring flowers, longer days and warm weather, it is a unique time to make the changes we need to make in order to grow...regardless of how difficult and painful those changes might be, coming out on the other side is fantastic and liberating. Due diligence, hard work and unwavering effort.....Growth and self love are amazing things and on the horizon for all of us!

Kiss Me I'm Irish

Happy St Patricks Day!

Top O' the Mornin' To Ya

May you be in heaven a half an hour before the devil knows you're dead

May your pockets be heavy, your heart light, and may good luck pursue you both morning and night.

Although I am not Irish...it seems that I always feel Irish on this day...singing songs in Gaelic, dancing Michael Flatley style jigs, and drinking green beer...I have been blessed and honored to have many Irish descendants in my life who have clearly helped me continue this tradition in my own life. In a toast to Irish heritage, Spring on the horizon and The Feast of St. Patrick....slainte and blessings.

p.s. a special prayer for those who were injured or lost their lives in the crane accident in NYC...life is too short not to appreciate every day!

Turn over a new leaf.....

Spring is almost here...at least daylight savings is, tricking us into believing that more light equates to warmer weather...its a trick! Spring signifies new beginning and change. Its also a time for the cycle of karma to complete unfinished business...funny how random things and people come out of the woodwork allowing an important opportunity for us to learn, grow and move forward. It creates this opportunity to physical and emotionally turn over a new leaf. So refreshing!

Leaves, exemplary of new life and growth bloom in the spring.....check out these new leaf studs on http://www.tracymatthewsdesigns.com/. To view more leaf jewelry, click here! Thanks for taking a look!

Eleanor Rigby

"All the lonely people, were do they all come from....all the lonely people where do they all belong..."- Beatles

It's American Idol season! Set yer TIVO.....and last night was Beatles night! so psyched!

Rocker David Cook sported some TMD men on the stage while....check out the double ring necklace (also seen on Orlando Bloom) with our large sword charm....although I didn't see it live, I watched it on you tube this morning. You can check out the collection online at http://www.tracymatthewsdesigns.com/!

Hugs all around

Its been great!- I have had the pleasure of teaching a ton of yoga classes over the past few weeks. This morning I taught an early morning class with a mixed level of beautiful students. I was sheer fun...even at the crack of dawn practically...

One of the students gave me a big hug and it really made my day! Hugs all around today...it feels great.

Here is my teaching schedule so far for the next 2 weeks:
all at various Equinox locations in NYC

Wednesday, March 12, 7:30 to 8:30 am 50th and Broadway
Friday, March 14, 7 am to 8 am Soho
Wednesday, March 19, 8 am to 9 am, Chelsea
Saturday, March 22, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, 63rd and Lex
Sunday, March 23, 11 am 12 pm, 54th and 2nd

then my vacation starts...returning April 8th

April 11, 8am to 9 am, Greenwich ave

and more dates to come....thanks for coming to class...can't wait to give you a big HUG!
(picture of me and several of my nieces and a nephew in an embrace- just want to squeeze them!)

Think Big!

"When you are inspired by some great purpose
Some extraordinary project
All your thoughts break their bonds
Your mind transcends limitations
Your consciousness expands in every direction
and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world.

Dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive and you discover
yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be!"- Patanjali

I'm Baaack! After over a week of travels I am finally by my computer again to write.

I was recently reminded of this amazing passage by Patanjali when a fellow yogi inquired about the translation. It is quite incredible: the mind and what it is capable of....but what if we were to consider taking a step back and truly looking at what limits us...and more than likely it is our thoughts. Thoughts are not truth or reality, they are often tricks that our ego plays on us to often make us feel bad or inadequate.

What about if you were to change your thoughts in a way that made you feel fruitful and amazing...if you were able to consider something a little bit different or even beyond the realm of what you considered a possibility....maybe you could break the bonds of the mind and consider the greatness that was always you!

Have a nice day.....you are fabulous!

Don't Worry, Be Happy!

Happiness is one of those enigmatic things that many people can often have difficulty finding. What is happiness anyway? I have often contemplated what truly makes anyone happy…is it really a state or is it something you can just be?

I am not really sure, but when I was cleaning up my computer on the way to San Francisco last night, I came across this amazing picture that was taken a few years ago on a trip to India. My travels to India were one of self exploration. I had been going through some personal things that were difficult and I needed to decompress. Although, I met up with a friend for a few days in the beginning of the trip; I was on this journey, essentially, alone.

I spent the majority of my “vacation” in a small Ayurvedic retreat center in the Nilgiri Hills, just above a tea plantation and close to many rural villages. During my time here, I had the extreme pleasure in meeting many of the inhabitants of these villages, in particular a beautiful woman (who I will call, Parvati, although I do not remember her name), who with her husband (many years her senior) ran a small “convenience” store (term used lightly-more like an open air shack with items for sale like rice, bindis and washing soap). I walked everyday up and down the slope, past the convenience store to a beautiful stone plateau that overlooked this amazing and awe inspiring valley. Along the way, Parvati and I became friends, even though we could not speak each other’s language. We somehow communicated through gestures and general osmosis I guess…although her husband helped us out a few times with his limited vocabulary of English.

I think the most powerful people I met along the way were the beautiful children. The first few days I arrived, they would follow me and run after me…I am sure for a few reasons….I was white (and very fair at that time of the year- December) and my light skin compared to their dark skin was something they rarely see. They wondered what the “white” thing I was carrying around was…and were even more amazed when they could hear music out of it (my iPod)! And finally, they were stunned that they could view the images on a tiny device that was a camera immediately after the pictures were taken! The brilliant laughter, utter glee and sheer amazement that these children had over something that seemed so trivial to someone like me, made me take a step back. These were some of the most joyous people that I had ever seen in my life….and compared to most people’s standards, these children truly had nothing…just happiness.

Towards the end of my trip, Parvati invited me and some of the new friends that I had met to have Chai in there home…I remember this moment very vividly. She was so proud to have my friends and me in her home. Modest was an understatement. Her home (which housed a family of 4) was about 200 square feet and included: 1) a concrete floor, 2) a drain for washing in one corner, 3) a twin bed on a rusty frame in another corner, 4) 3 plastic chairs, 5) a small kitchenette where she made her chai, and 6) one small roller suitcase which housed the entire family wardrobe. I remember how excited and happy she was to have us over…a gesture of kindness, in Indian culture, inviting someone into your home for tea is an ultimate act of hospitality.

There is a point and I am getting to it…I think what really took me back, was that all of these things that we have and all of this soul searching to try to FIND happiness, would be so much easier if we could just take a lesson from Parvati and the children in this village….just BE happy. These were some of the happiest and most joyful people I had ever seen in my life, despite the lack of things, absence of drama, and tough and sparse living conditions. Remembering them brings a huge smile to my face…and makes me want to experience it again!

Don’t worry…just be happy!

Learning to Fly!

Have you ever wondered why, especially in NYC, we come into contact with so many people on a daily basis, but there are a few that have some sort of power and influence on you...and for some reason you can't stay away from them? It's almost like a feeling of soaring or flying, the energy that some people have that keep bringing you back for more, even if you don't know why!

For me, one of those teachers, inspirations, and mentors to me is my yoga teacher, Bryn Chrisman. I met Bryn in her yoga class at Laughing Lotus shortly after I moved to NY about a year ago and a half ago. At the time, I was going through huge transitions....completely transporting myself and transforming my life in a cross country move from San Francisco. The level of stress that I was under was nearly unbearable...thank GOD for Bryn! Although she didn't know it, I could not get enough of her classes. Her quirky sense of humor, hilarious laugh, fantastic sequencing and soulful dharma talks really hit home for me. She has a sensibility that I relate to, intelligent and thoughtful, but definitely not too serious.

At times during this transition, even after 12 years of practice, I found myself wandering away from my mat. I did not feel like myself anymore and I am very grateful that I walked into her class that one cool Sunday morning in November...thanks for bringing me back to my mat...back to my practice and back home.

There are many magnetic people for me in my life and I thrilled to have teachers (friends, mentors and important people) that inspire me and keep me coming back for more...thanks Bryn!

Please please check out her classes at Laughing Lotus in NYC. http://www.laughinglotus.com/

Full Circle...

The interconnection between people, things and the event in our lives is quite incredible. Over the past year I have had a few "full-circle" moments- some call it karma or fate, even Justin Timberlake has a song based on the saying- "what comes around goes around, comes around, goes all the way back around...yeah!"

I am not sure what it is about me, but I seem to have a knack for attracting these "full-circle" moments into my life. I am continually reminded that everything is connected. Our dreams, our reality, our desires. Over the past year, I have been contacted by a few people from my past who were pivotal in my growth as a person in different phases of my life. Be careful what you ask for because it might actually happen and turn your world upside down. It is no mistake that I have made my choices in life based on my past experiences and sometimes the desire for long overdue resolution, may or may not be a blessing in disguise. My friend and mentor, Brooke Emery, likes to call the "premonitions" leading up to events "signs of land". Well, I have seen signs of land and hit land this week- a blessing in disguise, I can finally move forward.

A Matter of Perception

Perception is an interesting concept. Truly founded in our feelings, it is a powerful anomaly that is inexplicable to most.....how does our perception truly influence our reality? Its interesting isn't it and something that most of us deal with every day. A sarcastic comment taken as truth, fantasies about what we want turning into reality, the appearance of a situation shifting in a specific way because of our past experiences, the tone in our voice changing the meaning of a sentence and causing a different reaction than intended to the receiver of the message, the shifts in weather that to some seem beautiful and to others seem horrible....

This idea of perception and shifting our reality came into full focus for me this weekend. One of my new teachers, Stephanie Culen, said it best while in yoga class. She was on her way to teach a class, splashing through the rain and enjoying the beauty of the rain and the melting snow, when she overheard someone on his cell phone complaining about how horrible the snow and rain was. To many people, snow and rain is pure beauty. A friend of mine even said to me this weekend that he loves rainy mornings more than anything. Who doesn't love bundling up on a rainy day? There is something really comforting about it. There is a time a place for the rain and snow, just as there is a time and place for warm, brilliant weather.

Perception can negatively cloud your experiences or positively expand our views in any given situation. As difficult as it, letting go of past experiences and opening up our perception can be very powerful and life transforming. As a yoga teacher who is currently substituting group classes, I come face to face with this every time I walk into someone else's yoga class. For most students, attachment to the experience with their teacher and the familiarity of what to expect is the driving force and the reason students keep coming back. I am not immune to this either. When my favorite teachers are gone, I have been known to not even show up for class. On those occasions that I show up and walk into a sub situation, I expect to be disappointed. When faced with this, I start my meditation with a personal mantra to stay receptive to the experience and remain open to learning something. I am usually so pleasantly surprised that I am constantly reminded that their is so much to gain from shifting your perception and opening up to something new.

So, when I walked into class this weekend, I challenged my new students to keep an open mind when I came to teach for Leah, an instructor at Equinox. Since I had never practiced with her before, I did not know what to expect. My vigorous vinyasa classes are quite different from "restorative flow" which I was teaching. Leah is obviously loved. Her class was packed, there wasn't even room for another mat. By encouraging her students to release their attachments to their experience with her, shift their perception, and open up to something new with me, I was hopefully able to create a safe environment for these students to grow and expand. I think it worked...I received a few claps, many thank yous and several "when do you teach(es)" after class...the best compliment of all.

And so this idea of shifting perception can expand, grow and be applied to just about every experience that we have in life...something that seems important to me, may seem trivial to the next. Our perception of a situation is what shapes our feelings and our feelings about a situation, is what shapes our perception...it may be because of our past experiences and history are shading our reality, preventing us from releasing attachment and moving forward. Who really knows??? All I know is that my perception of life is quite different than the person standing next to me and regardless of what our mind is telling us, we have a choice to make a shift, and with practice, any shift can happen.

Peace out!

Inner peace is something very difficult to attain for most...peace of mind, quieting the mind and finding resolution with the way things are is a daily challenge for all of us, especially the overachiever types, such as, moi.

In the last few years, my meditation practice has not been the most consistent in my life and is generally "practiced" in conjunction with my yoga practice, rather than every morning. My lack of intention makes it difficult at times to deal with the monkey brain thoughts....why does my but look big or why didn't he call me or how am I going to produce that huge order....we all do it...and maybe it is even in the knowledge that our thoughts manifest into things when we buy into them.

My new practice is one of the "cheesy" affirmation-turn that frown upside down. It has started to work...so when I am feeling insecure about something that is illogical, I turn it into a positive. I have truly found so much more peace...and I have a lot more FUN!

Speaking of Doves...the Dove Bar will be going off tonight at the 2nd HH with Erin, Cat and Me! see you there, Thompson street, bet bleeker and w 3rd.

Just Fine!

"well, I like what I see when I'm lookin' at me when I'm walkin' past the mirror, don't stress through the night at a time in my life, not worried bout if you feel it, got my head on straight, I got my vibe right, I ain't gonna let you kill it, cuz' I wouldn't change my life, my life its just fine...." -MJB

Mary J couldn't say it better could she? I have been obsessed with this song since I first "really" heard it in dance class on Christmas Eve. Something about the heavy rotation of the song, a crowded dance class full of expert dancers (except for me) and an inspirational and incredibly, hilariously, talented teacher really pounded this into my head...that yes, there are things that I desire and would like to have....but my life is great right here right now.

Since I decided to make 2008 the year of manifestation and conscious intention, I have really started by taking a step back and REALLY looking at how great I have it. My life is fantastic!- more than JUST FINE and when I realize that I am truly and 100% grateful for all of my experiences (including the horribly devastating ones), it has made it significantly easier to move forward a take a look at myself and my impact on the people around me.

So maybe my salary is not up to par or that account that I have been dying to land is still on the fence or mr. perfect is waiting to meet me or come around, I feel comfort in knowing that with gratitude and conscious intent anything can happen....hey, within a few hours of affirming my celebrity clients, Orlando bought something, so surely this is possible in all areas of any of our lives.!

Most importantly- our lives are just fine, right here right now and we are all exactly where we need to be even if it seems less than savory at the time. Time to Celebrate!

p.s. buy this album its awesome!