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After spending several days in nature, cooking on an open fire, swimming naked in the cleanest rivers one can imagine; everything is in perfect harmony...and at peace. In the city, our senses become overwhelmed, stressed out; and with the daily news warning us how miserable the planet has become, it can be distracting...blinding us to the fact that great solace and joy is available in unlimited amounts everyday in this world. Out there, under the stars, warm and cozy in a sleeping bag, everything intuitively works together. The birds are busy nurturing and socializing, the spiders are magically creating geometric masterpieces, the butterflies grace the sky with their exquisite colors, and the animals find countless ways to live spiritually connected to one another. Sometimes we forget that people are just a small part of the equation. We have so much to learn; new discoveries that we simply cannot notice see while we are rushing through life, but only have the pleasure of experiencing when we slow down.
When we are mindfully at ease, we enhance the quality of our lives; we create authentic memories that last. Being present, and truly experiencing life in the moment, is what we will remember at the end of our days on earth. We will recall, with great passion, those moments when life stood still in complete beauty and wonder. You won't remember the work deadline, the traffic violation, or the bad romance. Let us make a conscious decision to stay awake, and to pay special attention to the whole of nature this New Year; and to recognize that nature is our family…whether it is a stray dog, a weed pressing through a crack in the sidewalk, or a beautiful field of wildflowers; we are one. Nature is relentless, unstoppable. And isn't it liberating to know that since we are a part of nature's miracle, this means that the life force, or Chi, within us is also unstoppable.
Live each moment as if you're seeing every situation for the first time! Our family at Present Moment Retreat affirms that you'll enjoy this very best year of your lives…realized from a place of gratitude and abundance.
Namaste-
Tom Morisette and CJ Page /Co-founders
Present Moment Retreat
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 Inspirational Moments |
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Being present begins with the ability to choose your own direction in life. And whether you're caught in the raging current of white-water emotions, or being swept along by a flood of invisible thoughts and feelings, one fact remains: Like it or not, you're going where that current leads. You have no real choices as long as you're under its influence. Learning to step out of the rush is the same as learning how to step into your own life.
Allow the following practice help you to slow down your life, and show you that your true nature never feels the need to rush any more than an eagle would try to swim across a lake to get to the other side.
Beginning this very moment, intentionally separate yourself from any rushing inner condition by voluntarily stepping out of it. How can this be done? Purposefully slow yourself down by acting to consciously reduce your usual speed. Here are a few suggested ways to guarantee a good start.
1. Walk over to get your morning cup of coffee or tea at 50% your normal pace.
2. Reach for the cell phone, your computer, or your yoga mat at 75% of your normal speed.
3. Drive the speed limit (at all times), but especially when late for an engagement!
One practice we find particularly transformational, at home and in business, is to always pause a few seconds before we answer someone's question. This mindfully conscious pause for self awakening is invaluable because, as the old saying goes; ‘Only fools rush in.' So whatever situation that you find yourself in, choose a time and place to slow down, and then practice stepping out of the rush.
Now here's the secret behind how this unique practice delivers a positive self image. Slowing down helps you become aware of yourself in a new and higher light by creating contrast between your usual speed through life, and your now selectively slower one. This enhanced self awareness empowers you to step out of the way of your own surging thoughts and feelings by making you conscious that their overwhelming presence within you are simply thoughts…they are not you. Once this choice is clear, you can choose your authentic direction in life. Step out of the rush by slowing down...easy does it.
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| Yoga |
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 Kids Love It. . . .
When yoga is taught at their level, kids readily enjoy the physical and mental release this practice offers. Most instructors who teach yoga to children report that kids are eager to use their imagination to stand like trees, stretch like dogs or be frogs. And today, when many children--like adults--suffer from stress, yoga can teach them how to relax. In addition to the classes at schools and fitness facilities, popular yoga camps for kids are offered at some retreat centers.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Center for Health Statistics, 16% of U.S. children 6-18 years old are overweight. Overweight is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile on the CDC's 2000 BMI-for-age growth charts. Yoga can be an enjoyable activity that can help children increase their physical activity levels and achieve a healthy weight.
. . . And Dogs Just Lap It Up!
Yoga seems to benefit even man's best friend. According to a report from BBC News Online, yoga for canines is the latest American import to have taken off in London. The canine yoga classes are for both human and dog participants, who bend and stretch their bodies through various postures led by an instructor.
"[They haven't] done anything like this before," Claire Margarson told BBC News Online, referring to her experience in the class with her three shi tsus, Tia, Tango and Tequila. "But Tia in particular loved it, spending 6 hours in class. She had her legs stretched in the air, was bent over into extraordinary positions--at one point she even resembled a wheelbarrow--and had her paws massaged. The dogs did most of the things that the humans did.
"At the end we were even encouraged to get them to hold their paws together so that we could recite a specially adapted concluding prayer." Margarson added that her other two dogs also showed benefits. "Tango, normally a bit grumpy, was a lot more pleasant to live with, while Tequila temporarily lost her obsession with smelling out the nearest lamppost. All of them slept very well that evening and were far less energetic than normal."
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| Mindfulness |
Extreme Attitude Adjustment
 Every day of your life, you are forming, changing or reinforcing your attitude. Your attitude determines your approach to life and defines your relationships with other people. It can also mean the difference between success and failure, since a positive perspective can turn your problems into blessings. There are three critical steps in changing your attitude: First, develop gratitude; next, lead others by serving; and finally, learn how to face your fears so you can accomplish what you want to in life.
Develop Gratitude
According to Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary, the term grateful refers to being "appreciative of benefits received; affording pleasure or contentment; [and] expressing or denoting thankfulness." Gratefulness promotes humility, stimulates your faith and promotes contentment. According to John Maxwell, author of The Winning Attitude, "Our attitude is the primary force that will determine whether we succeed or fail." In simple terms, your attitude will make or break you.
Without daily recognition of the things for which we are grateful, it is easy to become negative or adopt a self-centered perspective about life (the "It's all about me!" syndrome). Take the time to remind yourself every day that your life is actually part of a much larger picture and that the way you choose to react to the challenges of life ultimately defines who you are and what you believe.
In my daily interactions with clients, I am constantly amazed at the difference an attitude can make. Given the same set of circumstances, there is a world of difference when one person responds to the situation with gratefulness and the other reacts with defensiveness or irritability. Even during times of conflict or distress, you have the power to give a bad situation a more positive outcome so long as you have the right attitude.
Leadership through Serving Others
The greatest leaders are those who serve. The way they accomplish that is by lifting everyone around them to greater heights and making them feel that they are an integral part of a team. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe states it perfectly: "Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them to become what they are capable of being."
In giving to others, you learn that they will, in turn, give back to you. During even the most stressful, heart-wrenching periods of your own life, chances are you will benefit by making an effort to help someone else in need. Pull up a chair, lend an ear, or feed a hungry friend. Serving others will remind you that life is a gift of daily, unexpected pleasures available to you-so long as your attitude is open to receiving those pleasures.
Face Your Fears
One of the greatest obstacles to developing and maintaining a hopeful attitude is a fear of the unknown. It is all too easy to become complacent, apathetic and lazy when we choose to live in our own comfort zone in order to avoid this fear.
Six years ago I had the crazy notion of retiring from my fashion business to start Present Moment. I was successful, 47 years old and emotionally challenged to start a business that offered no guarantees whatsoever. Most people thought I was crazy. But thanks to the encouragement and support of my family and friends… I took the risk. As a result, I have enjoyed a career I love and have grown incredibly, both personally and professionally. There were many places along the journey that were fearful and stressful, but I am a better person for having made the trip.
Many wise ones have stated that fear is a stepping stone to growth. The fact is that we can use fear to our advantage. How can you conquer fear? One way is to reprogram your brain's responses to fear by intentionally putting yourself into new, uncomfortable situations. For example, the first time I ever spoke to a large group was as a business leader in my community. I had to memorize dozens of lines and act as an authority. I was absolutely nervous and terrified; but somehow I lived through it and actually was well received. The funny thing is that years later, I still get nervous when first speaking to large groups, but my fear is quickly replaced with energy and passion.
Adjust Your Attitude
Rejuvenation requires that you take an honest look at your attitude. Do others yearn to be with you? Do they draw energy and sustenance from your presence? Are you consciously grateful every day, even in the face of pain and suffering? Have you experienced the satisfaction of serving the needs of others? Are you willing and ready to face your fears?
Keep in mind that your attitude is an inward feeling expressed by your outward behavior. We were placed on this earth not merely to survive but to live, to savor every moment of your life as the gift that it truly is.
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| Meditation |
Guided Meditation for Teachers
 Each time you use your talent and abilities to guide students through a vocal relaxation, you harness the power and privilege of being an agent of change. You are in a position to help alter students' days-and lives-for the better. Before you start any relaxation session, reflect on the following simple but critical tips. They will help you lead others so they get maximum benefit. You will also benefit-from a poised, clear approach that ushers peace into the room.
Be Confident. If you find yourself being self-conscious, take a moment to listen to yourself and to breathe deeply. When you speak, don't just say the words, but mean what you say; sense each syllable. Own your words, and you will find yourself relaxing. When you are truly at ease, your students will naturally follow suit.
Be Empowered. Your students look to you for guidance. Take pride in knowing that you can help change their daily outlook. You have a hand in teaching them how to use relaxation techniques in their lives, so check in to see how students are applying your lessons. People have their own inner edition of what you say. Choose words that resonate with them.
Teach the Importance of Breath. When people understand the significance of each breath, they remember to keep breathing. Teach the essence of breathing by using a metaphor; for example, a car…gas in, fumes out. "Your body is like a car and needs the constant energy of oxygen in and carbon dioxide out."
Open Yourself to the Moment. If you are fully in the moment, transitions will come to you naturally and participants will benefit. If you are preoccupied with the next move, your class will not receive your best value as a teacher.
Sample Guided Meditation Script
"Lie down and close your eyes. Breathe in through the nose and out through an open throat. As you breathe in, feel your nostrils and imagine they are like two straws. Allow oxygen to flow in. As you breathe out, visualize your body releasing carbon dioxide. Fully fill your lungs with oxygen for 6 counts, and then release the breath in 6 counts. Focus on breathing in and breathing out. Count 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, in; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, out.
"Now feel that your head is heavy as if you were lying in sand. Let your head slowly sink . . . falling . . . falling . . . falling. Allow your eyebrows to soften; now your mouth relaxes while you breathe in and out. Your mind is on a train, and the thoughts are passing stations. Don't get stuck in a station for too long. Focus on breathing in and out. If you find yourself thinking too much or worrying, take a deep breath in, hold it and then let the air out while releasing that thought. Continue doing this until your mind is calm.
"Let your head drop to the right. Feel the neck stretch on the left; repeat on the other side. Lie very still and feel yourself releasing any resistance in your shoulders. Firm your shoulders, then release them. Notice the contrast between the two conditions. Progressively follow your body internally, as you allow your abdominal muscles to soften (if you find that hard, first tighten the muscles to feel the contrast). Keep your breathing fluid. Feel your thighs drop deeper into the sand; they are so heavy you can't even hold them any longer. Your knees and calf muscles disengage, and now your feet limply slide into the sand.
"Take a deep breath and own this totally fluid feeling. Take another deep breath, and as you breathe out, say, "Aaaahhhh." Repeat this six times. Return to normal breathing, and take a moment to recognize how you feel right now, so that later in the day, when you need to mirror this feeling, you will remember it and allow yourself to breath freely. Congratulate yourself for taking the time to unwind and become centered, focused, calmed; and more in tune with your true essence."
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| PMR Opportunities |
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Interested in being a guest teacher and/or massage therapist at Present Moment?! Please contact us for information regarding this wonderful opportunity.
Present Moment is actively seeking investors as we continue to grow our business in Mexico, and in the United States. If you are interested in this exciting and rewarding opportunity, please contact Tom at 916 273 7373 for more detailed information.
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Health and Beauty
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6 Tips to Build Your Strongest Bones
By Dr. Maoshing Ni, author of Second Spring
Got greens?
Most dairy products that come from cows, such as milk and cheese, have nutritional elements that you want: calcium and protein. But when you consume cow's milk and its derivatives, there's a catch. The high protein content in dairy items acidifies the blood, causing the body to draw calcium from the bones to balance it out. The net effect of this is to leach more calcium from the body than you gain.
Additionally, the protein molecules in milk are larger than the molecules a human digestive system is meant to handle, so the immune system may reject them as foreign, or allergenic. That's why many people experience fatigue, lowered ability to concentrate, and overproduction of mucus when they eat dairy. Some people lack enzymes, such as lactase, to properly digest dairy sugar; for them, consumption of dairy causes stomach pain, gas and diarrhea. For the best protection against osteoporosis, take advantage of the absorbable calcium found in leafy greens, beans and seeds.
Orange juice does a body good
Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health. While the calcium is necessary to build and maintain bone, vitamin D is needed because the body cannot absorb calcium without it. Cow's milk has traditionally been credited as the best food for strong bones, but new studies show that your body is able to absorb both calcium and vitamin D from orange juice as readily as from milk, if not more so. (Because citrus juice's acetic acid can erode teeth enamel, don't brush your teeth for an hour after drinking juice.)
Another bonus: Orange juice is full of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that also helps facilitate calcium absorption into the body, a double benefit. So enjoy the fresh nectar of the citrus fruit while you bulk up your bones.
Sunbathe early and late-not in between
Throughout history, Chinese women have sunbathed indoors through thin rice paper screens that filter out damaging UV-A rays but admit beneficial UV-Bs. Outdoors; the women used parasols to shield their skin from the penetrating rays of the sun.
Chinese tradition has always understood that sunlight is a double-edged sword. Sun is necessary for your body to produce vitamin D, essential for bone health, proper immune function and resistance to cancer.
In the West, heliotherapy is used to speed recovery from illness and treat conditions ranging from rickets to tuberculosis. But it is crucial to avoid overexposure, which can lead to premature skin aging and even cancer.
To receive the benefits of sunlight, spend time outdoors before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m. during the summer or before 10 a.m. and after 3 p.m. in winter, without sunscreen. However, if you are out in the sun in the midday hours, do use sunscreen, and if possible wear a hat and long sleeves.
Soft drinks are hard on your health
It may be satisfying to down a soft drink on a hot day-you may even feel "safe" because you're drinking the diet kind, avoiding calories so you won't put on weight. But calories aren't the only drawback in colas and other carbonated beverages-they can deplete the calcium in your bones, because they contain phosphoric acid, which makes calcium pass out of your system in the urine.
Now more than ever, when you are at increased risk of osteoporosis, you want to avoid soft drinks. If you crave a bubbly refreshment, drink carbonated mineral water and add a slice of lemon!
Taking calcium supplements: how to do it right
To avoid the stooped posture and broken bones of osteoporosis, act while you are still in your prime. Get regular weight-bearing exercise-that's smart for good health in general. However; beginning at age 35, make certain to take a proper calcium supplementation.
It's not quite as easy as popping a pill, so follow these guidelines. Make sure you take calcium carbonate, the easiest type to absorb, because many forms are not really bio-available. It must also be formulated with magnesium, preferably 1,200 mg of calcium to 600 mg of magnesium, and you will require trace amounts of boron, copper, zinc and vitamin B3 (often included in your daily multivitamin/mineral pill). Liquid calcium in a citrate base is an excellent choice, easy to add to juice drinks or power shakes. Remember to take your calcium in several doses throughout the day, as the body cannot absorb it all at once.
The trace mineral connection to strong bones
Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D get all the credit for maintaining good bone health, while trace minerals essential to bone formation like boron, manganese, copper, zinc and vitamin K are often overlooked. These trace minerals act as cofactors in the bone-building process. For instance, the trace element boron positively affects the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and vitamin D in bone formation. Studies show that supplementation with boron reduced the loss of calcium in the urine. Boron is found in fruits, vegetables, and nuts and seeds. Vitamin K, on the other hand, found in leafy green vegetables, has been shown to be essential for specific proteins that are building blocks of bones. These are called trace minerals because very minute amounts of them are needed, so the supplemental dosage is very small.
Daily intake of the following amounts-along with calcium, magnesium and vitamin D-are optimal for maintaining good bone health: 10 mg boron, 5 mg manganese, 5 mg copper, 25 mg zinc and 150 mcg vitamin K. Make sure your daily multivitamin contains these trace minerals. |
Recipe:
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PRESENT MOMENT SPINACH AND CRANBERRY SALAD
Ingredients
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup almonds, blanched and slivered
1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
1 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/4 cup natural brown sugar
2 teaspoons minced red onion
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook and stir almonds in butter until lightly toasted. Remove from heat, and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the spinach with the toasted almonds and cranberries.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame seeds, poppy seeds, brown sugar, onion, paprika, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, and olive oil. Toss with spinach just before serving. |
Upcoming Events
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Upcoming Events and Announcements from Present Moment Retreat
Jan. 5th-20th, 2010: Raw Foods Guru Giuliana Torre
Present Moment is thrilled to welcome Raw Foods Expert, and Cleansing Guru, Giuliana Torre from The Juicy Naam in NYC, for 2 weeks of customized nutritional counselling and powerful healing treatments. Join Giuliana for this limited
opportunity to get your health on
track with Organic Juices, Superfoods, Naam Yoga and her amazing Harmonyum Healing...space is limited!
January 8th to 15th, 2010:
Pigs Eat Wolves: Going into Partnership with Your Dark Side
Nourish yourself inwardly and outwardly in beautiful Troncones Beach, Mexico, with Yogi adept-Yogiraj Charles Bates, a 39 year practitioner of yoga science. Yogiraj is returning from a five year sabbatical and two year synthesis. He is now preparing others with his insights. Join him for one, or both, of these one-week Mexico retreats. The first retreat is based on his award-winning book Pigs Eat Wolves: Going Into Partnership With Your Dark Side.
January 15th to 23rd, 2010:
Yogiraj Charles Bates
Nourish yourself inwardly and outwardly in beautiful Troncones Beach, Mexico, with Yogi adept-Yogiraj Charles Bates, a 39 year practitioner of yoga science. Yogiraj is returning from a five year sabbatical and two year synthesis. He is now preparing others with his insights. Join him for one, or both, of these one-week Mexico retreats. Yogiraj's second retreat is based on making meditation accessible and self-actualization possible through understanding the chakras.
Jan. 29-Feb. 5: Calm Your Mind | Comfort Your Body | Conquer Your Fear
Join Lauren Zinn and Meaghan Minogue for 8 days and 7 nights of energizing vinyasa and blissful guided relaxation. These talented yoginis will begin each morning with a 90-minute yoga practice, and wind down each day with enchanting new ways to conquer your fear...or at least laugh at it! They will challenge your balance on the slack line, your ability to open your hearts in hand-balancing, and your willingness to look at the world anew from upside-down. Package includes luxury accommodation, two gourmet meals, two yoga classes daily, and one massage of your choice. More information at zinnyoga.com.
FEB. 5th-12th, 2010 - HEALING JOURNEY THROUGH CHAKRAS AND SOUND
Come experience an empowering journey of inner peace, in depth healing, self rejuvenation, and total well being with the practice of daily sound current, Kundalini Yoga and meditation led by Kundalini Yoga teachers Shabad Saroop Singh, an amazing teacher trainer, and Lea Longo, chanting Kirtan artist and yogini. Learn about the power of sound, manifestation through mantras, and transformation through Kundalini energy, chakras, and Yoga Voice.
February 13th–20th, 2010 Honoring The Inner Voice
A journey of self care; blending the power of yoga, dance and contemplative writing with Joanna Cashman RN, E-RYT, MFA; from WildGraceArts.com. Treat yourself to a week of nurturing self care in paradise at Present Moment Retreat. Joanna will be facilitating this transformational, interdisciplinary process of self inquiry and self expression. The accelerated tempo of our fast paced lives can leave us with little time for self reflection. Come and reawaken your true nature to the rich inner resources of wisdom, love and inner guidance which resides within each and every one of us.
February 20th-27th, 2010 - Sacred Sensual Splendor
Join Vividly Woman founder Leela Francis for an immersion experience and embodiment encounter with the divine feminine. Enjoy explorative dance, yoga, circle ritual and accessing the wisdom of nature in the sacred community of Vividly Woman. Dive into a lusciously rich experience of who you really are. Sign up now!
February 28-March 6, 2010 Find Your Spirit and Start Your Transformation
Join mother and daughter team Loretta Richter and Stacie Finucan for 7 days and 6 nights of yoga, meditation, chanting, and self-exploration. Each day will hold an opportunity to deepen your breath, challenge your body, and connect with your Spirit. Start your day with an invigorating vinyasa practice followed by a theme to take with you off of your mat; end the day with supportive discussion, asana, and meditation. Join us to start your transformation!
March 6th-13th, 2010 - Sacred Sensual Splendor 2
Join Vividly Woman founder Leela Francis for an immersion experience and embodiment encounter with the divine feminine. Enjoy explorative dance, yoga, circle ritual and accessing the wisdom of nature in the sacred community of Vividly Woman. Dive into a lusciously rich experience of who you really are. Sign up now! |
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