Choose your own adventure

We talk a lot in class about listening to the body. Specifically, today’s body. Not yesterday’s, not last week’s, not the one doing different things on the mat next to you.

Yesterday in class, I was on this subject and surprised myself with a new term: response–ability.

As in, our ability to respond... and that we get to choose how we respond to each sensation. Not from comparison or pressure, but from awareness.

This is what we are invited to practice. First, to notice… and then, to choose.

To choose from a place of strength rather than insecurity. To choose what sustains instead of what depletes. To choose in a way that supports you staying: in your body, in the moment, and in the long game.

That’s the practice. Knowing you are able to respond from a place of integrity, honor, and kindness.

Be aware, though, dear yogis: This practice is known to have ripple effects off the yoga mat... you might be making choices that honor your body for the rest of your day!! 😜

A choice you could make (one with floppy ears)

Meet my parents’ unexpected new roommates:

My mom and dad recently took in two stray bloodhounds. A very kind, very compassionate choice. What they did not realize at the time was that one of those bloodhounds was pregnant.

So instead of adding two dogs to their already full house… they added nine more. 😅

These little bloodhound pups are now officially on the hunt for their furrever homes. Bloodhounds are incredibly smart, affectionate, loyal, and wonderfully floppy in both ears and personality.

If you (or someone you know) might be interested in learning more, send me an email and I’ll happily connect you with my parents. And if you’re simply here for the puppy photos, that is also a completely valid and encouraged choice.

Not sure about this couple's choices

Winnie’s Book Club is gathering for Snack & Chat next Thursday, 1/22, from 12–2 pm at Mammen Family Public Library.

We’ve been reading Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman, and I don’t know about you, but I found myself yelling at the book more than once: “Why would you do that?!”

So, we have much to discuss. Come share your thoughts, your theories, your favorite yelling-at-the-book moments… or just come listen and snack.

Speaking of snacks (always), sign up for what you plan to bring by clicking the button below:

Singing club update🎶

Last week’s newsletter included a question about a possible singing club, and I loved reading through your responses. Wow...I think we might be onto something, y'all.

But it wasn’t until I was happily scanning them that I realized… I forgot to ask for your name. 🙃

If you already filled out the form, would you mind popping back in and adding your name to the last question box? The form will let you edit your response, and it would help me so much. Thank you!

And if you missed last week and are thinking, “Wait… singing club??” You can click here to catch up on last week’s newsletter and see what all the fuss is about!

Maybe I'll see you out and about?

This Wednesday, 1/14:​
Yoga at Spring Creek Garden Center at 5:30 pm, followed by happy hour at The Desert Spoon. Movement, then snacks. A classic combo.

This Saturday, 1/17:​
I’ll be hanging out at the Sprout 'n About SA Farmers Market at Rainbow Garden (off Thousand Oaks) from 10–2, posted up at the 46 Farms booth. Come say hi if you’re wandering the market!

Saturday, 1/31:​
Yoga + Sound bath morning with Cherie and me. A slow, nourishing start to the day!

Hot off the press: Save the date 🥐🧘‍♀️​
You’ve heard of happy hour yoga… but have you heard of brunch yoga? Save the date for Friday, February 20, for yoga at Spring Creek Garden Center from 10:30-11:30 am, followed by brunch at The Desert Spoon. Yes, this is as good as it sounds.

You've read so far that you deserve another puppy pic!

Remember, just like on the mat, awareness comes first. The choices follow from there.
This is your adventure.

With love,

Monica

​(Reply to me HERE)​