Wellness Program Development

What does it look like to develop an integrative health and wellness program for your corporation, business or clinic?

Check out our Q1 2020 Service Offerings for client, Re3 Healing + Aesthetics in Sarasota, FL. VP of Wellness Initiatives, Jelisa Difo, is spearheading a year to remember including a staff retreat, weekly classes and therapeutic private sessions, monthly open house and ongoing workshops and trainings.

Stay tuned as our service offerings continue to grow!

Interested in hosting a staff retreat that incorporates mindfulness and meditation for the workplace?

Want to know more about trauma informed approach and how mindfulness can benefit productivity, focus, and overall health and morale of employees?

Reach out at: amy@ayearinyoga.com

Yoga Expo LA 2020

In Yoga Consulting’s Founder, Amy Osborne, was honored to represent Loyola Marymount University’s Graduate Yoga Studies at Yoga Expo LA on January 4th.

Amy was able to share knowledge of Trauma Informed Mindfulness, namely how stress is stored in the body, during her course entitled, “Integrative Yoga for Healing.”

The term “Integrative” or “Integral Yoga” classically derives from Sri Aurobindo’s approach to yoga as a process of self-reflection and self-knowledge, aimed at understanding the Self through Nature.

Today, “Integrative Health” is a term commonly used in clinical settings to allude to the applied wisdom of both Eastern and Western modalities applied to best serve in the individual healing process.

Integrative Yoga for Healing with Amy Osborne, M.A. E-RYT

M.A. Yoga Studies Booth at Yoga Expo LA

In Yoga: On Growth

Dear All,

It’s been a while since I’ve felt ready to sit down (or in my case, stand up) and write.

The focus has been on growth.

And with radical growth comes discomfort, mental/emotional fatigue, introversion and coping. It took me a while to realize, these are not moments to be shunned and shamed. These are as real as the joyful moments. They are part of me. And how I react is part of me. So who do I want to be? How do I want to show up for growth?

I recently (in September) moved back to Los Angeles to take on the role of Program Associate for Graduate Yoga Studies at Loyola Marymount University (big shoes to fill, from Sarah Herrington, founder of OM Schooled and author of Idiot’s Guide to Yoga). I am honored to be serving with my teacher, Dr. Christopher Key Chapple, for what I have deemed, ‘The White House of Yoga,’ a think tank for ‘next steps’ in the evolution of Yoga and Yoga Therapy in the States; supported and funded in part by Indian institutions and scholars. (Check out their ‘first of their kind programs in the nation’ here.)

However exciting, jumping into a new academic year with three days to “settle in,” growth inevitably occurred. I increased my time management and task efficiency, and was challenged to more clearly define my work life boundaries. When does work end? At the beginning of a new chapter, what type of life do I want to create? What do I want to leave more space for? And the perennial: How do I balance it all?

Growth. Because of growth – namely in this instance, the support, dedication and kindness of a community of Yoga aspirants in North Port, FL – “the studio” North Port Yoga + Wellness is moving into a 33% larger space on January 1st. Tangible growth.

When Angel + Matt Loflin joined as co-owners, we dreamed of this space. We named two conjoined spaces – one dedicated to massage therapy, acupuncture and energy healing work (“Wellness”) and one dedicated to classes and trainings in Yoga tradition (Not fitness, but exclusively highlighting Eastern, Western, and Oriental Yoga methodology, including Tai Chi,  Qi Gong, in a modern context).  We dreamed we would create a safe space for healing and self-discovery for the community to come together. We would become known for our high quality teachers and trainings. We would use Yoga as our ethics, as our business mentor. We would give of ourselves whenever possible in awareness of the law of karma and our imminent abundance in exchange for selfless service (Seva). We would give, give, give to this space so it had a chance to thrive. We knew if we did it right by staying grounded in Yoga, we had no choice but to succeed.

So far so good.

How does Yoga really tie in here? (No, Yoga’s not magic – or a religion.)

Re: Bhagavad Gita (reportedly on the night stand of the greatest paradigm shifters of our time: Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Caser Chavez):

“To action alone you have a right and never to its fruits. Let not your motive be the fruits of action; nor let there be in you any attachment to inaction.

Fixed in yoga, O winner of wealth, do your work, renouncing attachment and remaining even-minded in both success and failure. This equanimity of mind is called Yoga” (Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, verses 47-48, Murthy 1995).

It’s one thing to read it and another to live it.
Now try living it in business…”even-minded in both success and failure.”

I am so thankful to have been gifted partners in business and in life who are similarly guided by a spiritual life; meaning for me here: a sense of greater purpose. We share an excitement for our individual paths (preferred methods and modalities) and shared dharma (to provide a center for healing, to heal ourselves, and to help provide healing for others) which time and time again, puts gas in the tank.

We know we will be rewarded because as long as we have trusted and shown up to do the work, we have always had enough.

It’s both the reason for and the process of my and the studio’s growth.

I am grateful for the synchronicities that have allowed for my personal and professional evolution this year (thanks to the patience of Angel and Matt Loflin).

I am grateful for the struggle and discomfort of growth for making me who I am and who I am becoming.

I am grateful for our community (meaning here, the NPYW tribe) who’s willingness to meet me in authenticity allowed me to live into my Self for the first time.

I am grateful for the growth that comes from the unknown, and all that’s still to unfold in the coming year…

I am grateful.

This is growth in Yoga.

I see you, Growth.

In gratitude for the In Yoga community – both newcomers and those who have followed along for years – thank you for seeing me and being champions of this wild journey in Yoga.

All One,

Amy

 

A Day with Robert Sturman

In Yoga Consulting’s Founder, Amy Osborne, and her faithful pup, Shakti, were honored to spend the day with international yoga photographer, Robert Sturman on November 23rd. Although the photoshoot was intended to highlight meditative asana, Shakti had other plans and wouldn’t leave her Mama’s side. Protector and ultimate ham…

We are grateful for the outcome and to share the gift of these images with you all.

Happy Holidays!

Love,

Amy + Shakti

 

Special thanks to friend in Yoga, Robert Sturman, for the gift of his time and talent. 

 

Reverse Warrior

Meditation I

Meditation II

Meditation III

Announcing Prison Yoga in SWFL!

In Yoga Consulting in collaboration with North Port Yoga + Wellness is excited to welcome the launch of a new wellness initiative at Charlotte County Jail, including yoga, mindfulness and meditation practice for prisoners.

Learn more about the vast physical and mental benefits of yoga practice among prisoners in a National Institute of Health study here.

We are grateful for the support of Charlotte Behavioral Health Care in providing this opportunity to share, particularly CEO Victoria Scanlon.

NPYW Studio Director/Co-Owner, Angel Loflin E-RYT, met with Captain Turney and Lieutenant Long on November 26, 2019 to tour the facility, exchange information and discuss the next steps.

We appreciate your encouragement and enthusiasm as we pursue new and exciting ways to bring healing to the broader community.

The Charlotte County Jail wellness program will be managed and implemented by North Port Yoga + Wellness’ Studio Director + Co-Owner, Angel Loflin.

Welcome Re3 Healing!

A special welcome + thanks to

In Yoga Consulting’s newest client:

 

In Yoga Consulting is excited and honored to assist Re3 Healing Aesthetics and Wellness in the development of its new wellness center, including contractor recruitment, training, management and scheduling.

Re3 Healing Aesthetics and Wellness’ mission statement parallels our own, to “to improve wellness both inside and out.” In partnership, we aim to offer a wide variety of holistic practices to help nourish the mind, body, and soul to improve the quality of life of Re3’s clients. We acknowledge that each patient is different and requires a thoughtful and dedicated approach to healing.

Re3 and In Yoga’s comprehensive Wellness Program “leads with the leak,” addressing dis-ease as its source. By educating clients on the science and physiology of the body and promoting techniques for self-regulation, In Yoga instructors provide the ‘missing link’ in holistic wellness through a mentally and physically embodied approach.

Following recent discussions on Re3 Healing’s needs related to Wellness Center development, we have agreed to focus on the following areas:

• Integrative Health Open House
  • Once monthly overview of diverse wellness services and physiological benefits
• Integrative Health Introductory Series
  • Align schedule with existing 360° 12 week series
• Wellness Classes + Tiered Memberships
• 200 Hour Teacher Training Course
  • Facilitate quality therapeutic training of 360° instructors in Sarasota/Venice
  • Summer 2020
• Therapeutic Private Sessions
• Yoga Therapy 2021
• Retreat Options

We look forward to all still to unfold as we kick of the new year with this new opportunity and the same goal: to provide alternative methods of healing to all.

Stay tuned as we expand our offerings at Re3 Healing and throughout the community in Sarasota, FL, Los Angeles, CA and beyond!

 

Love + Light,

Amy and Jelisa

Welcome Jelisa + Upcoming!

Hello All,

I hope this finds you well and you’re preparing for a joyful, relaxing holiday break.

You will notice changes in the coming weeks and months as In Yoga Coaching + Consulting broadens its reach.

First off, I am honored to welcome Jelisa Difo, E-RYT and Reiki Healer, to the team as Vice President for Wellness Initiatives, based in SWFL. Jelisa brings a wealth of experience in community organizing and individual healing, with an emphasis on Trauma Informed methodology. Many dreams and schemes are being birthed through our collaboration. I am truly grateful to have Jelisa on board.
(Learn more about Jelisa, bio below.)

Jelisa Difo, In Yoga Consulting’s VP of Wellness Initiatives

Jelisa and I were thrilled to welcome our newest client, Re3 Healing Neuro Institute based in Sarasota, FL, in October 2019. As In Yoga Consulting, we have developed and are implementing a clinical therapeutic wellness program including Chair Yoga, Mindfulness Meditation, Integrative Health courses, and weekly private sessions.

Shout out to our skilled instructors (including several NPYW 200 hour training graduates): Pallavi Lowery, Carl Eisen, Lynne Zahumeny, Jelisa Difo and Chris Palladino. We look forward to all that 2020 has in store!

I have several upcoming events to share, including an online option!

With even more offerings – including trainings and retreats – to come in the new year. Stay tuned…

 

---

 

January 6, 2020 (Online Series Begins)

I will be serving as Teacher Assistant (TA) for Dr. Christopher Key Chapple’s online Yoga Philosophy course through Loyola Marymount University’s Extension Yoga Studies.

Kick off the new year with self-discovery through an immersion in traditional Yogic texts.

Samkhya Karika (1/06 – 2/07)

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (1/06 – 3/13)

Registration is now open!

Registration Link

For registration questions, please contact: extension@lmu.edu

January 31st, 2020 (All Day)

I am honored to serve as Keynote Presenter for the Kids Thrive Conference hosted by Drug Free Charlotte County. I will be presenting on the science and methodology of childhood trauma and trauma informed mindfulness practices, primarily based on the research of Bessel von Der Kolk, M.D. in “The Body Keeps the Score.”

March 7 + 8, 2020 (9am – 6pm, daily)

Join me at the studio, North Port Yoga + Wellness, for an intensive weekend immersion in Trauma Conscious Yoga, also referred to as Trauma Informed Mindfulness. Details and registration information below.

Pre-register: $199 / Drop In: $249

Pre-register at www.northportyoga.org,
email info@northportyoga.org
or call: 941.423.5409

Questions? Give me a shout at: amy@ayearinyoga.com

---

Trauma Conscious Weekend Training
March 7 + 8, 2020 at North Port Yoga + Wellness, FL

What is Trauma Conscious Yoga, also referred to as Trauma Informed Mindfulness?

Did you know that stress is stored in the body, within our muscles, fascia and nervous system? The many health benefits of yoga practice derive from the body’s capacity to release stored stress or trauma through asana (physical postures), pranayama (breathwork) and meditation. In this training, you will learn the “how” and “why” of stress stored in the body, practices to release or “self-regulate,” as well as techniques to promote wellness in your everyday life.

Topics covered include:

• Overview of Subtle Body Anatomy
• Western Physiology + Neurological Overview
  (Changing Your Narrative: The Science of Positive Thinking)
• Yoga for Mental Health
• Demographic Specific Techniques (including Veterans, Substance Abuse, Victims of Sexual Abuse, Homeless, Juvenile/Kid’s Yoga, Prison + Refugee Populations)
• Community Outreach Preparation
• Self Identity Reflection
• Trauma Conscious Yoga Methodology + Practice

Open and applicable to yoga students and teachers, caregivers, counselors, health professionals and all.

16 Continuing Education Hours available for Yoga Alliance members.

---

Jelisa Difo, E-RYT, Reiki Healer
Vice President for Wellness Initiatives 

With a background in education and public service, Jelisa’s various roles are aimed at helping humanity grow. She has worked in the non-profit sector as a community organizer and event planner, and most recently as an international wellness retreat coordinator. While serving as Community Liaison in Springfield, MA and for the Board of Education in NYC, Jelisa gained experience working with diverse demographics to reach a common goal.

In 2015, Jelisa’s life took a turn for the best. It was in St. Thomas where she found her first yoga teacher and embarked on a journey of transformation. After completing her 200-hour teacher training and four years of traveling the world, she learned that yoga and meditation are best when integrated into daily life, off the mat or cushion. Whether she is practicing daily meditation, yoga, Reiki or leading a retreat, Jelisa leads with curiosity and an open heart.

 

Now Accepting Remote Clients!

Now Accepting Remote Clients!

Enjoy private customized yoga practice at home, on your own schedule.

Check out “First Dibs” deal below!
First 3 New Clients for A Year in Yoga private instruction save $1,000!

Give the Gift of Wellness for Mother’s Day!

Schedule private session here or e-mail: info@ayearinyoga.com

 

Trouble reading the PDF? View here.

 

---

---

Get Away Weekend, In Mindfulness

The Still Life.

After my second “vacation” home (to Los Angeles in April, and Connecticut last weekend), I’m surprised to find a palpable landing back home in Florida. My travels around the country to see loved ones, friends and family, and to frequent my old stomping grounds, came with all the usual emotional turbulence one would expect. Happy and those less-than-happy memories surfaced, and the intangibility of home (“Stop this Train!”) reminded me of the inevitably of aging, impermanence and my own growth.

I found myself in an odd predicament, as I prepared for my high school reunion. (Yes, I planned it. Yes, I was class president. But no, I am not any longer! I’ve retired.) The familiar stress of event planning and on-site logistics, paired with a few unfortunate hiccups in the long days that preceded the event reminded me of my high school self: Eager to please, relentlessly offering my energy to others yet so drained as a result that I miss much of the experience myself. This is my pattern. I miss quality conversations with old friends and I might be seen (I’ve been told) as self-centered for my “lack of caring about others” when the time for chatting came. Instead, I hover close to the bar overwhelmed, jittery and foggy-feeling. The show must go on.

We like to paint pictures of what something “should” or “would” be like. I had one for this milestone event and I know others did too. But ultimately, my proudest memory was right before I left the house. I had answered all the questions, called all the vendors, secured the decorations, arranged the guest list, collected, deposited, and disbursed funds, and on. The only thing left to do before I left the house was be still. I looked in the mirror, one last make-up check, and was surprised by a tsunami-like welling up of pride.

Though I might still fall into old patterns from time to time, I am aware of them. And awareness gives me choice. I found myself proud, not of who I am on paper – business owner, Masters degree holder, international traveler, author – in fact, speaking to these “titles” like accusations actually triggers some nerves. These are roles that I play, that I am honored to hold. They do not define me. I am not that.

As I looked in the mirror, I felt a startling ease and affection for the person staring back. I trust her. I’m inspired by her strength. Her ruthlessness. Her endurance. I admire that in the hardest, darkest times she continued to extend her arms, heart and mind to others. (Even though she should have been home prioritizing self-care.) When there was nothing left to give, she gave whatever she had left. She knows who she is unapologetically. And in recognizing there are many things she doesn’t know, she moves through life differently than before. Her ego, and eyes have softened.

I went forward to the reunion and enjoyed the following day with extended family, feeling immersed in a sense of (relative) calm and all-encompassing love.

Of all the changes I’ve made in the past ten years – the cross-country moves, the ass kicking’s and getting my ass kicked – there are a few lessons I feel have changed me the most:

I now know that the purpose of life is to love. That being still is not a sin. That finding stillness is not shameful. That being “productive” is not required to “succeed.” I’ve softened.

My gaze is no longer dominated by a sense of fear, confusion or disillusion, but is held with compassion, understanding, and tenderness. My heart affirms my own personal mantra and place in the world (which coincidentally, is likely yours too):

I will accept you no matter what. I will love you no matter what. I will be the best I can be, and accept my imperfections. I will set boundaries to protect myself from those who might misuse or abuse my energy. I will be present when and as often as I can, and permit myself to retreat into solitude as needed to recharge and re-energize. I will surround myself with people who support me and my goals without judgment, and allow for them to change and evolve with time.

I will love as often and as much as I can bear. I will understand when love cannot be returned and hold space for forgiveness, healing and growth. Even after being hurt, I will continue to love. Fulfillment is love. Look no further than those closest to you. They and you are all you need.

I’ve come to see that finding stillness is both the means and the end. A still life in the present moment is a happy life. I intend to spend the rest of mine pursuing exactly that.

Stop looking, you’ve already found it. The still life.

My heart whispers: Rest easy, you are perfect. And I think that one’s for you.
All bound up in love, devotedly yours,

Amy

 

Guest Post: Meditation and the joy in every moment

Ben began his practice in 2003, Since studying at his local physiotherapy clinic, Ben has expanded his scope to include yoga acupressure, acupuncture, naturopathic medicine and applied kinesiology.

Meditation and the joy in every moment
By: Ben Rogers, Edited by: Amy Osborne

Meditation has been described as “no mind” or “not thinking.” It is a stilling of the mind for a sustained period of time.

Mastering meditation can sometimes feel like coming home. You feel as if you have simple rediscovered something that has always been there. The door into tranquility that you know has already been within you is now opened.

For example, if you work in an office, are a musician, painter or another creative field, you likely know that in the midst of creation you are not thinking – but the work is simply flowing through you. Allowing this to happen is quite a challenge, which is why meditating and sitting down before work can be very helpful.

Your mind does not like to be switched off, it will constantly interrupt your meditation, demanding your attention.

Somewhere within each of our minds there is a sanctuary away from the noise and disruption of our own busy thought process. Meditation is about calming that chatter of your mind and rediscovering the calm and still space within yourself.

---

Breathing and meditation

Don’t forget to breath, that sounds very obvious, but it is a natural instinct for some people to hold their breath when concentrating. Don’t gasp for air, as you get into your meditation your breathing should become more gentle and rhythmic.

Posture for meditations

First imagine the top of your head is being pulled towards the top of the ceiling by an invisible string, so it feels as if your head is floating above your spine. Your chin is slightly lifted, perpendicular with the floor, to open and expand the heart and throat centers.

Relax your shoulders, drawing them back and down, and gently ease your chest (heart center) forward.

Focus and meditations

When you are ready, close your eyes and focus on your breathing, as it comes in and out through each nostril; this is one possible point of focus. This is where your attention can stay. Take several deep breaths and allow your diaphragm to lift, expanding the belly with each full inhalation. Three count inhalation, three count exhalation.

General tips for meditation

• Don’t think about the past or future – you are participating in the present moment
• Don’t strain, just breath
• Don’t have expectations – It may be amazing or just difficult the first, third, and thirty-fifth time you meditate. The practice is simply being with any experience that might arise.
• Don’t be disappointed – the benefits of meditation come with regular practice and persistence

Exercises for joy on the go

Whether you walking across your living room or across town, consciously slow your footsteps and pay attention to each sensation in your heel, the ball of your foot and then your toes when they make contact with the ground. (Walking Meditation) Notice how this simple practice relaxes your stride and your breath as your attention settles into the fullness of your present moment awareness as you go along with your day.

Observe your thoughts as you walk. What are you thinking about? Can you see a tree, person or car go past without internally labeling it? Practice moving though your surroundings without attaching thoughts, stories or judgments on what you see.

Exercise your heart (cardiac/circulatory system) whether it is bicycle riding, skating or dancing. Find an aerobic activity that brings you pleasure and you can joyfully commit to for half an hour or more during the day.

---

Wouldn’t it be nice if we could skip past the pain and fast forward to the bliss? The truth is to experience true contentment, we must be willing to feel all of our emotions, from despair to sadness. Our willingness to accept the moment, acknowledge the emotion and be willing to let that go is to find true peace.

Meditation is a tool that teaches us to meet ourselves (and others) where we are, and to be with whatever thoughts and feelings arise without attachment or judgement.

While the practice of meditation is profound, it is also quite simple to learn. There are many types of meditation, from walking meditation, contemplative writing, chanting or focusing on objects. But all forms of meditation begin with getting still and quite inside.

 

Join Amy for Meditation 101 at North Port Yoga to learn six methods of meditation to kick start your personal practice. amy@northportyoga.org / www.northportyoga.org