Barbara Purcell

Bungee Core

2012-02-07T13:52:00.008-05:00

Is anyone else wondering about the part trampoline, part tightrope act performed by the tunic-clad Richard Simmons look-alike during the Superbowl's halftime show this past Sunday? The unusual sport, known as slacklining, started more than 20 years ago within the West Coast's rock climbing community and has branched out into various styles including...yoga slacklining. (See below as Andy Lewis, Madonna's bouncy Estruscan boy toy, strikes a fiery pose). This is one serious bungee core workout!

2012-02-01T11:11:00.001-05:00

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Livestrong.com's Top 20 Supermarket Foods

2012-01-31T12:55:00.003-05:00

How many of these grocery items are in your kitchen (or belly) at the moment?

Is Yoga Back-Breaking Work?

2012-01-16T14:27:00.004-05:00

...not exactly, though the Times piece from Jan 8th may lead some readers to believe otherwise. After receiving the "How Yoga Can Wreck Your Body" article from about 10 different people, I'm putting my two cents in for both teachers and students:

Teachers:

1) Avoid giving "mixed level" classes if you can: You have a woman balancing on one foot in a standing split while the guy next to her can't get into child's pose because his quads are too tight. It's really tough to cater to both experience levels at the same time.

2) Unless you're working one-on-one with a student, avoid headstands altogether. The cervical spine is way too fragile. You only have two eyes and they're unable to carefully watch the ten necks simultaneously trying to attempt this pose during class.

3) Incorporate a bit of Pilates into each class. By helping students safely strengthen their core (both abs and lower back), you are placing more emphasis on alignment (think possible better posture) rather than flexion / extension (think potential spinal surgery).

Students:

1) Attend class with a teacher that is more concerned about joint alignment, awareness through movement, and breath work than with the guru who's encouraging scary-looking poses they'll gladly demo for anyone who will watch.

2) Be honest with yourself about which class level you should attend -- and if it is unclear to you, err on the side of caution. After 12 years, I still take a basics class from time to time, as there's always room to enhance your foundational understanding of each pose.

3) Resist the temptation to mimic the superstar on the mat next to you. It sounds super cheesy, but yoga is about understanding where you are in any exact moment on the mat; not where Sexy McFlexy is as she wraps her ankles around her head.

2012-01-02T17:00:00.001-05:00

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Some 1984 for your 2012

2011-12-31T16:58:00.008-05:00

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Raquel Welch's "Total Beauty and Fitness" yoga video, why not start this new year off with 90 minutes of hangover healing Hatha. Check out those classic 1980's swimsuits!

Legal Ease

2011-12-11T21:51:00.003-05:00

Check out my holiday stress-busting tips in the most recent issue of Legal Management.

Mind-Body Exorcise

2011-12-06T15:19:00.004-05:00

The question is often posed: Is yoga a religion? According to the Vatican's former chief exorcist, it's actually the work of the devil. "Practicing yoga is Satanic, it leads to evil just like reading Harry Potter," Father Gabriele Amorth recently stated at the Umbria film festival, which screened Anthony Hopkins's new film, "The Rite." According to the 86-year old priest, yoga leads to Hinduism, a polytheistic perversion of anti-Christ idolatry.

Yikes.

It's understandable how the relationship between Hinduism and yoga may lead people to wonder about where all of those deities and re-incarnated lives fit in, but to say it's because of Satan? I'd say it's more closely aligned with seitan -- a delicious vegetarian substitute for meat.

Please enjoy this delicious seitanic recipe:

Barbecued Seitan
(Serves 4)

Cold leftovers of this dish are great, too.

Vegetable cooking spray
1 medium onion, diced
8-12 ounces seitan cutlets, cut into strips
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
4 whole wheat buns, optional

Spray a skillet with cooking spray. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time if onion begins to stick. Cook until onion is translucent. Add the seitan strips and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes. Add barbecue sauce and stir to combine. Sauté until barbecue sauce is hot. Serve on whole wheat buns, if desired.

Total Calories per Serving (without bun): 69

Fat: Less than 1 gram

2011-12-05T13:04:00.000-05:00

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November Pose

2011-11-07T13:06:00.002-05:00

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Bundle of Joy

2011-10-31T14:02:00.002-04:00

Congratulations, World, it's a brand-new, bouncing baby billion. And baby billion makes seven as of today, according to the UN's Population Division. Earth hit a global population of one billion in 1804. Two billion in 1927. And less than 100 years later, we've torn through another five billion people.

That's a whole lot of living and dying. Here's to even longer lines at the DMV, plenty more fish in the sea, and less overall wiggle room on at least six of the seven continents.

Going the Distance

2011-10-17T14:39:00.002-04:00

Fauja Singh began running eleven years ago. Over the weekend, he completed the Toronto Marathon in under 8.5 hours. Not too shabby for a man who turned 100 last spring. He revealed his secret for going the distance in one recent interview: I don't eat cauliflower, rice, or kheer (pudding). Simple, yet powerful words to live by!

Greetings From Muladhara

2011-10-04T13:40:00.009-04:00

After the recent spate of articles citing yoga's sexiest secrets, it might be wise to quickly go over the three Bs for a bigger O: Breathing, Bandhas, and Baddha Konasana (or any hip-opening pose). While spontaneous yogasm (as it's being called) in the middle of your lunchtime Vinyasa class is unlikely to occur, certain techniques can certainly harness one's sexual energy and allow for more intense orgasms when the occasion arises.

Breathing is the key ingredient for any activity in life, and few people know that better than yoga practitioners. By deeply inhaling and exhaling slowly, one is able to activate his or her parasympathetic nervous system which induces a relaxation response both in the body and mind. This calm state can certainly open up the right channels for the big moment, especially if someone is prone to distracting stress (a sexual deterrent in and of itself).

We have three Bandhas (Sanskrit for "locks") in the body and during yoga class at least two of them are often encouraged for core strength and greater muscle control. The mula bandha is the most popular lock when it comes to better sex through yoga as it strengthens the PC muscles that make up the pelvic floor (also known as the "root chakra" or muladhara). Both men and women can engage their mula bandha on and off the yoga mat and, in turn, experience more intense orgasms. This ancient technique is very similar to the Kegel exercises often recommended by MDs for a host of problems including urinary and prostate issues.

Baddha Konasana--or any hip-opening stretch or pose--helps to increase blood flow to all the right spots while also allowing for greater flexibility during sex. And you won't need to perform like a Cirque du Soleil acrobat to experience more fun in bed--just a teency bit more range of motion could make all the difference in discovering a whole new sensory world.

So there you have it. As for the woman in the recent Daily Beast piece who claims to have had a yogasm during her class on the Upper East Side, there certainly is enough evidence she aligned these three Bs to have experienced the Big O. A piece of advice to avoid that next time? Picture Gandhi naked.

October Pose

2011-10-03T11:50:00.001-04:00

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What Wine goes with Captain Crunch?

2011-09-14T22:26:00.005-04:00

According to a recent Wall Street Journal article (which included a rather impressive list of various beer/breakfast pairings), a cold one in the a.m. is the new mimosa--even better--it's the new toast. In a frosted glass. With an ABV of at least 5%. On days that fall in the middle of the week. Is it first semester of college again? Brings to mind the profound question George Carlin once posed...

Bach and the Butterfly Matador

2011-09-12T22:00:00.001-04:00

Yet another interesting evening on the High Line...

September Pose

2011-09-08T11:29:00.000-04:00

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September: National Yoga Month

2011-09-07T21:41:00.006-04:00

If the Department of Health and Human Services wants to honor yoga with a month of national observance, why not get in the mind-body mix yourself! Just a few small suggestions to help you celebrate:

- Enjoy a week of free yoga at participating studios far and wide.

- Treat someone you care about to a yoga class (or three)

- Make the commitment to practice at least 5x a week throughout Sept

- Set a daily intention to live with purpose, clarity, and self awareness

- Be a bit kinder to yourself... and kinder to those you come your way

You'll be levitating in no time!

2011-08-25T15:10:00.000-04:00

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When life gives you sirens...

2011-08-18T22:17:00.001-04:00

...make serenade.

At least that's what this crooning New York City MTA employee is trying to convey for lunchtime passersby and neighborhood residents who might otherwise be irked by the noisy Second Avenue Subway construction. The massive plan has been the cause of traffic congestion, hardship for small business owners, and the rumbling of surrounding buildings (it's a daily a blast zone). But that hasn't stopped New Yorkers from enjoying this guy's take on the classics!

The Locavore's Dilemma

2011-07-30T10:34:00.005-04:00

Can't afford organic blueberries from Whole Foods? Give Central Park a try. The city's public lands offer a myriad of flora and fauna -- the turtles in Flushing's Kissena Park are a big hit -- for those who are adventurous (delirious?) enough to forage. But the Parks Department is trying to tighten up restrictions since the growing number of wild-plant pickers is potentially harming the urban ecosystem. One hipster's salad topping is another creature's winter inventory (sorry, squirrels).

Top 20 Age-Defying U.S. Cities

2011-07-18T21:12:00.010-04:00

Is it better to live a long and healthy life in Boise or Bridgeport? Breathe a sigh of relief knowing that both places have recently made the list of top U.S. cities for longest life expectancy. According to the Daily Beast, a decade's worth of data has been collected and the national results are in...and it's not surprising that the sunny West Coast takes the cake (just make sure that cake is vegan and sugar-free). And for those of you who thought an apple a day kept the doctor away? Apparently not so in the Big Apple. Not even Boston was on the list -- a city that boasts of some of the country's most brilliant scientific minds, medical facilities, and academic institutions. Bridgeport, however, made the cut as one of the only two Northeastern cities (so did Rochester, NY). Is it time to move out of NYC and head for the post-industrial promised land of old smoke stacks and abandoned factories? I'll take my chances in Manhattan.

Cuddle Fish

2011-07-08T16:38:00.006-04:00

There are plenty of proverbial fish in the sea, and it turns out that cuddling is essential for a man's long-term catch. And for women? Sleeping with the fishes (sexual satisfaction) makes for a whale of a time.

The recent Kinsey Institute study measured relationship satisfaction in heterosexual U.S. couples as well as in four other countries (including Japan and Brazil), shedding light on sociological trends that cultural stereotypes often indicate to be the other way around. What accounts for these findings? Factors such as child-rearing, a feminist shift in self identity, and a later onset of peak sexual arousal may explain women's reasons. Whereas a man's diminishing sex drive over his lifespan might make way for more affection in achieving greater intimacy.

Does this finally mean an end to all "Not tonight dear, I have a headache" punchlines as well as sitcoms based on schlubby suburban husbands begging for semi-annual sex from their otherwise uninterested wives?

I didn't think so, either.

2011-07-06T00:19:00.001-04:00

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Turn off that Faucet!

2011-06-16T09:36:00.006-04:00

No one can see their reflection in running water.

It is only in still water that we can see.

- Lao Tzu

2011-06-06T22:07:00.001-04:00

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Gaga's Goo Diet

2011-06-04T00:01:00.005-04:00

So that's why Lady Gaga is looking particularly clavicular these days.

Baby food has finally made its way into the hungry hands of motherless mademoiselles looking to reap the benefits of Hollywood's newest fad diet: Neonatal Chic. For those of you who haven't heard, Gerber is the word on the street; up to 14 jars of it daily. Who needs fresh fruit, vegetables, and radiation-free steamed fish this summer? Digestion is so 2000 and late -- far better to imbibe tepid jars of Plum Baby 7+ Months Bean and Beef Cassoulet with Tomato for that super hot beach bod by July 4th. What better way to scream *Oh Baby* in your bikini than to eat... baby food?

Get Your Shame Game On

2011-05-29T16:33:00.004-04:00

In this age of emotionally unavailable vampires and pain-steeped pretty boys, is it a surprise that women are more drawn to brooding men than to smiling guys upon introduction? Culpability translates into a sexy version of capability, according to a study published this week in the American Psychological Association's Emotion. According to the Canadian study, women may interpret happy-looking men as sexually overeager or somehow weak. They'd much prefer the guy whose face exudes that certain "Je ne give a damn pas."

Just don't assume this shame game applies to women, as well. In fact, it's just the opposite. Though the study's female participants were far more attracted to men whose faces exuded a sense of shame, male participants were much more drawn to pictures of smiling women.

Moral of the story: Steer clear of men who look genuinely kind and be sure to wear your teeth-whitening trays every night, ladies. If it doesn't work out with Mr. McBroody, there's always a lagging nice guy just waiting to finish last with you.

The Secret Life of Knees

2011-05-25T09:54:00.005-04:00

With the Miami Heat just one step away from the NBA finals, what does LeBron James believe to be a major driving force behind his peak performance on the court? According to the star athlete, he's been doing yoga during the offseason back in Ohio with a "secret society" of fellow practitioners at an undisclosed location. Are Masonic lodges now offering Vinyasa classes? Is there a holistic chapter of Skull and Bones? Only the knees know. But fans can rest assured that whatever he's doing...it's working.

2011-05-11T15:52:00.001-04:00

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Judgment Day is Coming... Non-Judgment Day is Here!

2011-05-09T10:24:00.007-04:00

Question: How can Judgment Day be described interchangeably with the words "rapture" and "doom?" The answer may be as irrelevant as the inquiry unless you're Christian Talk Radio host Harold Camping, or one the many avid listeners of his multimillion-dollar Family Radio, getting ready to attend the big People's Court in the sky on May 21st. But with the impending Mayan doomsdate (December 21, 2012) and the relatively recent hype of Comet Elenin, the crock jock's warning serves as an interesting philosophical exercise. Would you make more of an effort to lead a better life, be a better person, if 2012 was your last year? May, your last month?

Yoga's concept of practicing ahimsa (non-harming, non-judgment, compassion) is a great tool in better relating to the world within oneself as well the world outside of the self, and serves as an opportunity to put your best foot forward. Whether that means lining up some karmic ducks just in time for the purported apocalypse or just trying to be a positive force in the world, the good news is now is a good time to give ahimsa a shot. As Mahatma Gandhi once stated, "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Before the world ends!

Meat Your Maker

2011-04-19T10:51:00.006-04:00

And what they're making ain't meat. But hey, who wouldn't want to photoshop a close-up of delicious ribs in the hopes of luring a few more vegans over to this side of the cruelty-free fence? It seems sad that a vegetarian magazine would need to use stock photos of non-veg items due to "budgetary reasons", but that's just the kind of world we live in. Scrimp and save. Crop and airbrush. As one door closes, another opens: And who will be the first to start a vegan stock photo agency? Say cheese...

The Next Step in 4G Technology

2011-04-18T11:36:00.003-04:00

More bandwidth. Better audio/video streaming. And a seamless mind-body interface.

2011-04-11T11:18:00.001-04:00

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Hold That Thought!

2011-04-06T13:06:00.004-04:00

Can't find a working restroom? Urine luck. A full bladder just might help you avoid making an impetuous (disastrous?) decision. A recent study from the Netherlands links bladder control to the same area of the brain responsible for reward. Resisting the immediate desire to duck into a bathroom may also help you to stave off other impulses, instilling a greater sense of self-control that may pay off in the long run. Making a new decision about your retirement fund? Reconsidering your long-term relationship? Wondering if you should sell your coin collection? Drink a liter of water and sit on it.

No Small Feet

2011-04-04T15:36:00.005-04:00

We've got one proud Prana Mama down in Miami these days...Alessandrina Lerner's 11-year old daughter, Amandine, has recently become a certified yoga teacher, leading weekly classes and donating the proceeds to charity. When I think about my own efforts in obtaining the 200-hour teacher training several years back, I must say, this is one interesting kid. In addition to learning a host of pretzel-fying poses, Amandine memorized beaucoup de Sanskrit while supposedly reading all required texts.

Way to go for hitting one right out of the namaste-dium, missy!

2011-03-15T10:35:00.001-04:00

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2011-03-02T13:07:00.004-05:00

"Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding." - Kahlil Gibran

Another Stunning Discovery on the Sticky Mat of Life

2011-03-02T11:43:00.016-05:00

After riding these winter waves in Tagazhoute, I've concluded that the lessons learned on a surf board aren't too terribly different from those on a yoga mat (though I prefer my savasana dry, thank you very much.)

Core Yoga Versus Pilates

2011-02-26T08:23:00.005-05:00

Many people ask me whether they should take up pilates or yoga in order to strengthen their core, relieve back pain, etc. And while these two modalities differ, they also overlap in certain ways.

Yoga is an entire holistic system in which we learn to increase awareness of Self by freeing ourselves from the distractions of the mind and body. Piece of cake, especially since it can be accomplished in just eight simple steps, known as Patanjali's eightfold path of yoga (it might surprise you to learn that the "asanas" or poses, are just one step of this path.) Other aspects of yoga include moral observances and restraints, breath work, concentration, meditation, and for those who really do their homework...Nirvana. Yes, it's a lot to bite off, and it's probably why some prospective students never get around to rolling out the yoga mat in the first place. But it's also incredibly rewarding and surprising in its totality--I walked into my first yoga class over a decade ago for reasons far different from why I practice today. What started off as physical exercise (including a quest to have awesome abs) has evolved into an ever-increasing process of clarity and observation. My friends and family say I'm a lot less grumpy, too.

So what does any of this have to do with the Pilates method? When Joseph Pilates devised his core-strengthening modality in the early 1900's, he believed that by controlling the mind, one could gain greater control of the body (strength and flexibility.) And though his method doesn't perfectly parallel with the ancient yogic texts of the eight-limbed path, the six principles of Pilates eventually emerged, touching on certain aspects of Patanjali's work from ages and ages earlier. Its principles of flow, concentration, breathing and centering are also essential in developing a yoga practice.

Core yoga classes often incorporate classic Pilates mat sequences within a yogic framework, allowing for the exploration of yoga while also specifically addressing the core-strengthening techniques associated with Pilates. Standing balances such as vrksasana ("tree pose") involve an engaged core while also inviting the student to experience a traditional yoga concept, drishti (Sanskrit for "gaze") as a mental exercise of heightened concentration that co-occurs well with the physical exercise. A classic Pilates mat exercise such as "the hundred" becomes an opportunity to link breath and movement and fire up the core by using pranayama, one of the eight aforementioned limbs of yoga. At times, Core Yoga is a veritable 2-for-1 special. Check out this article for a further comparative summary between the two modalities. Either way, your body (and mind) will thank you.

2011-02-25T00:17:00.002-05:00

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Better Than Prime Time TV

2011-02-03T12:21:00.003-05:00

One of the most emailed NY Times articles this week discusses the increasing evidence that those who regularly meditate may be measurably enhancing their overall brain function. Gone are the days when people would relay personal anecdotes about simply feeling calmer after meditation. We now have Harvard-backed studies to prove that actual structural changes are occurring in the brain. An increase of gray matter in the hippocampal area (think information processing) and a reduction of gray matter in the amygdala region (think anxiety and fear response) may be causing such long-term effects as increased attention span, compassion, kindness, and yes - calmness. Participants meditated 30 minutes a day for two months to render such groovy results. Don't have the time to sit still? Turn off that episode of Two and a Half Men and try these mindfulness exercises instead.

Shivery Is Dead...

2011-01-27T13:05:00.005-05:00

...and central heating killed it. A recently published British paper examines how a steady thermostatic rise in U.K. and U.S. households since the 1970's may be contributing to the steady rise of obesity in these two populations as well. As our bodies have become increasingly exposed to warmer temperatures in our homes, offices, and vehicles, our capacity to generate heat...and expend energy (calories, folks)...has been compromised in the process. We're all born with a form of fat known as "brown fat" which apparently must be activated by a decrease in temperature in order to start consuming the energy it's designed to consume. And with the cozier room temperatures (and therefore inactive brown fat cells), we may very well be slowing down our metabolic rate by up to 200 calories a day. So turn down the heat, and stock up on Snickers Bars. There's a whole lot of shivery waiting to be brought back to life.

Me-ouch!

2011-01-20T11:40:00.002-05:00

I almost can't even comment on this one without getting into trouble. Suffice it to say, this is one nasty case of cat-scratch crotch shot fever.

The UGGly Truth

2010-12-31T20:04:00.006-05:00

I bought a pair of UGGs two Septembers ago because I figured they'd be a cute boot for my ten pairs of leggings. Today, I went back to the SoHo store where they had been purchased to see if their zippers could be fixed (the salt from last week's storm had corroded the metal to the point of unzippablility.) There was a line down the block comparable to that of Marquee on most nights. Except it was broad daylight. And this is a shoe store, not a cheesy nightclub in Chelsea. So I waited on line, for 30 minutes, as they let five people in at a time, only to be told there's nothing to be done about the mangled zippers. I had hoped for more.

In the words of Bono, nothing changes on New Year's Day. Happy 2011, Zappos.

The Snow Is Too Damn High Party

2010-12-29T10:38:00.003-05:00

Enough already. I'm sick of walking in the middle of the slick avenue to avoid these walls of snow assembled along the sidewalks. As a result, I've slipped three times and am dealing with a sore tailbone, a scraped knee, and a tear in my favorite skinny jeans. I'm sorry, former New York gubernatorial candidate, Jimmy McMillan, that your Rent Is Too Damn High Party did not win the election this past November. Right about now, I'd like to take you up on your marrying a shoe stance--preferably one with water-resistant technology and optimal traction.

And The Winner of 2010's Word of the Year Goes To...

2010-12-20T13:18:00.006-05:00

Austerity. The other white meat.

Good one--I love this word. And I'm so happy, thanks to the collapse of Greece's economy, Ireland's bank bailout, and the U.S. unemployment rate continually hovering at 10% that so many other Googlers love this word, too. Though I disagree with its wholly grim connotations (one of its Merriam Webster definitions is "enforced or extreme economy") and would like to set the record straight on why.

Its other meaning, according to MW is, "the quality or state of being austere." That doesn't necessarily mean one must devote his or herself to an ascetic practice (think yogis living in caves or monks living in poverty) but it does call into question what exactly an austere state entails. And how we can perhaps benefit from it in the long run.

A friend from Hibbing, Minnesota once told me that Bob Dylan supposedly found a great deal of inspiration in its zinc white snow drifts, that something about the land literally assuming a blank canvas allowed his mind's eye to paint all over it.

I wonder if we can all find that sense of possibility during these stark times. Rather than focus on the austerity of 2010, maybe it's time to put an ever-blankening white canvas to good use and paint a picture that's more practical for us, if not more pretty.

May The (Life) Force Be With You

2010-12-03T12:52:00.008-05:00

So much of our mental state and physical well-being can be controlled by the way we breathe. It sounds so obvious, so banal, so budget-friendly, but it's the key to all forms of yoga, and has been so for thousands of years. So how exactly can breath work, also known as pranayama (Sanskrit for "control of the life force"), affect one's mood or energy level? Simple--mindful breathing (whether it's slow and deep or energetic and staccato-like) oxygenates the blood, impacts hormonal secretion, and actually retrains the brain to respond more calmly in stressful situations. Think of it as a powerful way to create space--in the moment, in the mind, and in the body. Once that space is created, stress subsides. Right then and there. According to Harvard medical professor and long-time mind-body advocate, Dr. Herbert Benson, it seems that pranayama has more than just immediate effects in creating a relaxation response; it may even change the expression of genes. Wow, command your mind to shift on a cellular level *and* keep your cool while walking through Herald Square this holiday season. I'm stocking up on inhales and exhales for 2011!

Sugar Sugar

2010-10-30T13:45:00.003-04:00

According to the Census Bureau, Americans consume approximately 25 lb. of candy per piggy capita annually. One would assume the majority of this damage is done around Halloween. Something to keep in mind when all that candy corn goes on clearance sale Nov 1!

Something's Fishy

2010-09-04T12:33:00.004-04:00

I avoided papaya salad in Thai restaurants for years due to the shrimp paste. I made huge commotions over ordering clear-broth soups instead of fish-based broths. And now, it seems, I made the right choice in finally becoming a full-fledged pescatarian (which sounds an awful lot like pesky-tarian when pronounced properly).

Why, you may ask? Because it turns out NYC tapwater contains near-microscopic shrimp, known also as copepods. Though these invisible crustaceans (1 to 2mm in length) do not pose a health threat to the water supply, it has raised concerns for people who have shellfish allergies, dietary restrictions, and anyone else squeamish about their drinking water being prone to prawns.

The good news is the copepods only exist in high quality (and hence, unfiltered) water supplies, so you can rest assured NYC gets an A+ for its H2O. If that doesn't offer solace, however, a Brita water filter should keep you in the clear. I'll drink to that.

Bed Bugs and Beyond

2010-08-06T14:10:00.013-04:00

They're ba-ack... and NYC is bugging out. Bed bugs, once thought to be nocturnal parasites reserved for nursery rhymes, are coming to a theater near you. Literally. Everyone from Mayor Bloomberg to Bill Clinton to countless hotel guests and city residents have been affected by the tiny blood-sucking beasts. Here are three unlikely lessons I had the pleasure of learning last year, when terror struck my own mattress.

Lesson #1: They don’t have to do it in bed. These things might thoroughly enjoy loitering on your fitted sheet, but they can be found anywhere. Sure, sleeping soundly offers the ninja vampire a convenient opportunity to locate its host (that would be you), locally anesthetize his or her skin, and commence the blood drawing, but recent news sources have cited their whereabouts in subway stations, libraries—even the Hollister flagship store in SoHo. They’re happy to slip into your clothes (perhaps laid out on your bed while showering in the morning) and will gladly participate in Take Your Bedbug to Work Day. They hide really well in zippers.

Lesson #2: Get Ready For a Game of Whack-a-Mole. Chances are, unless you’re the fool who somehow tracked that one preggo bug into your home, other units in the building are infested. And even if there is a confirmed building-wide infestation, don’t necessarily expect group participation from the other residents in ridding the problem. Some people are so ashamed of the issue, they refuse to even discuss the infestation, let alone treat it. The end result: A useless game of whack-a-bug with the other afflicted tenants in the building, where one treated unit will become re-infested all over again due to the festering issue elsewhere.

Lesson #3: Abandon All Hope. At least when it comes to keeping your bed; or anything stored under your bed. Or articles in the closet ten feet from your bed. Throw it all out. Even when posting large signs on your Ikea carrion that state, “Infested with Bedbugs,” passersby—including neighbors in your building, on your floor—will still pick at the doomed pile lining the curb. Buying eco-friendly treatments, hiring Pest Control to spray the drawers and bomb the place, or sealing the mattress with a protective cover are all valiant forms of denial (see Lesson #2). The mattress protective cover alone is enough to force matters into perspective; do you really want to zip up the crime scene and sleep on a necropolis of bedbugs? Find a sublet, buy an air mattress, and get a bicycle pump.

Any other questions of concerns? Write to your local assemblyman about the remote possibility of bringing back DDT.

Hurt So Good

2010-07-28T13:17:00.005-04:00

When people ask me about starting a yoga practice, it often involves which teacher or basics class they should take at their gym. And while there's nothing wrong with jumping into one of the many beginners group classes this city has to offer, one may be taking matters into her own hands. Potential injuries arise when a yogi debuts in group class filled with other newbie yogis, slipping between the mats' cracks - even if attendance is small. No matter how qualified the instructor, it can be challenging to convey to a new student the importance of alignment and the need to recognize one's personal limitations (while the gal on the next mat might be touching her toes, your own forward bend may not necessarily be there yet - no matter how much you're willing to push, strain, and yikes, snap).

My suggestion? Take a few private lessons before attempting downdog, plank, and chaturanga in a group setting, where only one set of eyes is overseeing a collective of limbs - your wrists will thank you later. And though it may seem lightweight to not yet attempt tricky asanas, the real process of yoga occurs when nonjudgmentally listening to your body without allowing the ego to dictate - in this regard, dropping into "child's pose" halfway through sun-salutations may be the most challenging asana of all.

2010-07-05T12:46:00.006-04:00

Check out this incredible version of the Hindu epic, "The Ramayana." In "Sita Sings the Blues" creator Nina Paley braids an ancient tale with a modern romance and vocal recordings straight out of the Jazz Age, illustrating through these three different eras how love is a wonderful and timeless dilemma.

It's Gettin Better All the Time

2010-06-01T11:47:00.004-04:00

I turned 30 a few months ago, no sweat. I began, however, anticipating turning 30 when I turned 27. It seemed best to plenty prep myself for the chronological crisis years in advance - that way, once I actually entered the new decade I'd be too beleaguered and demoralized to even notice. Worked like a charm. My older, wiser friends assured me I was being silly, and a few gal pals who'd recently crossed the threshold themselves all said it was cinch--that their 30's were, in fact, shaping up to be more promising than their 20's. I guess that would make sense given the increasing stability and accrual in this brave new decade. And a recent study actually reveals that happiness and enjoyment do increase with age--as stress and worry decrease. According to the findings, age 50 renders a steep drop in life's worries for many people, while age 85 offers a happier sense of self and overall life satisfaction. From age 18 up to 50? Life's not as grand. Seems like a good time to start bottling the ethos of octogenarians. If we all could feel a little less attached to future outcomes, a bit less frazzled by past hardships, and a wee more grateful for today's offerings, could 30 be the new 85?

Silencio

2010-05-28T12:27:00.005-04:00

I plan on attending a silent retreat this Memorial Day weekend...in my basement apartment. Who needs an ashram upstate when one has all the trappings of pratyahara in the comfort of her own home? I'm stoked - just picked up some high-end Nepalese sandalwood incense to smudge the boiler area before I slowly work my way into an inward meditative sojourn for the duration of Saturday morning (I've got lunch plans in the city).

Meditation for Aviation

2010-05-08T12:19:00.007-04:00

An increasing number of airports are introducing meditation rooms for travellers seeking out a little relaxation in the form of prolonged exhales. Though headstands boost blood circulation from a long flight, and seated forward folds will quiet down the mind after a failed upgrade attempt at the ticket counter, it's not yet clear how popular these spaces will actually become with passengers.

Personally I'd rather find moksha in the gooey cinna-center of the food court's Cinnabon.

Hold The Garnish, Please

2010-04-28T13:41:00.007-04:00

It's not just about being a picky eater; cilantro and I just don't get along. Never have, never will. I've sent dishes back if sporting those green flecks of garnish. Both pico de gallo and gazpacho are completely hit-or-miss, depending on the presence of the enemy. But it's not like I want to make such a fuss each time those unwanted leaves try to sneak themselves into my food, it's just that the taste of cilantro unequivocally reminds me of one thing and one thing only: Palmolive Liquid Dish Soap. Really, squirting a bit of dishwasher detergent into salsa would be a good substitute for any restaurant kitchen that has just run out of the herb.

I do realize there are lots of people who enjoy cilantro, or oddly enough, are neutral to it. I acknowledge that there are entire cultures enjoying this stuff in their various culinary delights. But even when I try my darnedest to practice non-attachment and simply accept its flavor as a part of a meal, that soap-in-my-mouth feeling is undeniable. And though this might be an effective tactic for a foul-mouthed kid, it's a harsh experience when I'm simply trying to enjoy my veggie burrito.

And I'm apparently not the only one! There's a whole legion of us that can now blame our finicky foible on genetics. We can blame our parents once again--and the cilantro aldehydes they rode in on.

Stand-Up Routine

2010-04-24T00:42:00.005-04:00

A quick show of hands - who here is still in love with their aeron chair? Time to get with the program, people; the hottest desk-chair trend is no chair at all. Sitting is so 2002. Standing desks (or, at least alternating between sitting and standing) offer a variety of benefits to counter our otherwise computer-centric sedentary lifestyles:

Burn more calories!
Relieve back stress!
Prevent writer's block!

It's all very exciting, but if I wanted to stand on my feet all day long, I'd get a job in retail. Enter, the yoga chair, a cleverly designed seat that comfortably promotes spinal alignment (so long as you have a spine). Just tried it out for the first time, and I'm thinking sitting is about to become the new standing.

Live Long and Prosper

2010-03-21T13:12:00.008-04:00

A wedding ring can lead to less suffering. Or so they say. And they aren't just your happily married grandparents who recently celebrated 55 years together. Data continues to link the benefits of marriage to one's overall health--so long as the bride and groom have a mostly blissful union. Researchers from Ohio State University are investigating whether there is an actual link between various stressors (everything from conflict resolution issues to poor nutrition) within the marriage and the physical health of each partner. And though marital discord can lead to a myriad of issues such as a weakened immune system or increased mood swings, to remain single might hasten health issues such as cancer or heart disease. The bottom line? Marriage is good for ya. Keeps the body in check. Your endocrine system responds well to it. So does your heart.

Sprung

2010-03-21T13:12:00.004-04:00

NYC celebrated the Spring equinox in sunny, 70 degree style yesterday. After record snowfall this past winter, New Yorkers were out and about; some were strolling through the various parks while others were delicately balancing eggs at South Street Seaport. And though eggs will happily stand up in tadasana year-round (despite what my fourth-grade science teacher told our class), the balance people sought at exactly 1:32pm downtown had more to do with what's internal rather than what's deemed vernal. At that very moment, when both light and dark were equal, at least 100 participating people (but more like eight million New Yorkers) had a chance to let out winter with a long exhale and breathe in the renewal and warmth of Spring.

Wine-Body Connection

2010-02-13T14:38:00.004-05:00

As if breaking a sweat, releasing yummy endorphins, and reclaiming one's Self on a pink sticky mat weren't enough reasons to practice yoga... now we're luring them in with wine and chocolate.

Though I'm all for striking a supreme balance in life (somewhere between veganism and hedonsim), it might be preferable to keep certain delights separate but equal. No doubt, yoga's popularity has evolved in large part due to the industry's elasticity, so to speak. Studios have become increasingly creative by offering unique workshops, humorous teachers, and innovative yoga styles (Yoga Fight Club, anyone?), but it might be advisable to stick with sun salutations in Hatha class. Why not take the lessons learned on the mat (mindfulness, gratitude, acceptance, to name a few) and become your own best sommelier when sipping life.

Highlights of a Decade

2009-12-30T22:39:00.006-05:00

This past decade hasn't exactly been a breeze. We kicked it off with Y2K and wound down with H1N1. And everything in between (insert calamity here). But there were some rather notable highlights... in no particular order:

SUVs Go MIA
Birth of the Ipod
Death of the Floppy Disk
Blogosphere Ignites International Amateur Hour
The Coolest President Replaces the Foolest President
The Hudson Succeeded as a Landing Strip
Al Gore, The Container Store, and Locavores Speak Out
Transfats Get The Hell Outta Town
Lawn Chairs Take Over Times Square
NYC Bans Smoking (Goodbye Dry-Cleaning Bills, to Say the Least)

Just to name a few... Happy 2010.

The Big (Rotten) Apple?

2009-12-30T10:21:00.005-05:00

What's got you down, New York? Is it the nonsense up in Albany? The mayhem down on Wall Street? The sour smell in your subway car en route to the office this morning?

Perhaps a winning combo of all three.

According to poll results recently released by the CDC, New York ranked number one as unhappiest of all states. But before we can blame Buffalo or Binghamton for these low marks, let's examine some of the major variables considered for measuring overall life satisfaction: climate, air quality, crime rates, and schools. Though upstate may boast of more brutal winters than the Big Apple, New York City's traffic congestion, ailing public school system, and pairing of humid summers with bitter winters (try waiting for the M15 on any night in the middle of February), might explain how we won the blue ribbon for the blues.

The number one state experiencing overall life satisfaction? Louisiana. Good thing we bought that place. Though part of the CDC's data was collected prior to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, it seems crawfish etouffe and Creole music (along with sunshine, warm weather, and a lower cost of living) are more life enhancing than previously thought.

There is one notable statistic New York City doesn't need to be cryin' about this year: the lowest homicide rate on record.

Now go take to these safe city streets and turn that frown upside down.

Massage In A Bottle

2009-12-14T11:45:00.007-05:00

'Twould be a best-seller, especially during the holiday season. Alas, many tight shoulders and sore backs must throw down on a spa table for $100 an hour in order to find a bit of relief. Though regularly scheduling massages is a luxury to most, there are definite self-administered techniques which may do the trick -- at least, most of the time. The New York Times recently ran an article about a savvy bunch of athletic / wellness types who have turned to self-massage DVDs and foam rollers in relieving muscle aches and undoing otherwise nasty knots. .

Over the years, my yoga and Reiktini clients have asked me what my own wellness / relaxation regimen includes. Perhaps surprising, it doesn't include a whole lot of massage. Given the benefits of yoga (improved circulation, increased openness in the joints, stimulation of various glands that regulate immune function as well as moods), I don't really experience chronic tightness or stiffness. .

Would I *like* to throw down on a massage table every couple of weeks? Sure. And in this industry, I know plenty of massage therapists who'd happily barter with me. But there's something to be said for self-massage techniques - be it a foam roller for the hammies or a yoga pose to release the hips.

Throw in a lavender-scented eye pillow, and you've got yourself a party.

Junkie Food

2009-11-10T20:20:00.003-05:00

A team of British Neuroscientists have found that our brains seemingly crave junk food as much as narcotics, indicating that food addiction can be just as difficult to overcome as drug addiction. Their study showed that a group of lab rats given an unlimited diet of high sugar and fat quickly became oversized, binging rodents demanding more Oreos with their heavy cream. Another group of rats, enjoying a steady diet of mineral water, dark leafy greens, and vegan snack products, were able to activate the pleasure center of their brains with much less hassle than their donut-addled counterparts. Indeed, the fat rats needed more and more stimulation to register the same amount of brain activity.

Though this is bad news for the average American struggling with weight issues and unhealthy eating habits, it's even worse for New York City's rat population, diving down deeper and deeper into the dumpster for a quick fix that will never bring true happiness of fulfillment.

Cookie Monstrosity

2009-10-22T13:36:00.004-04:00

I was recently offered a cookie by a lovely woman who kept a whole bag of them in her purse at all times. This wasn't just any 105-calorie cookie, it was a dry, timid excuse for chocolate chip. I'd just had my first experience with the COOKIE DIET, a curious weight-loss fad (though it's been around since the 70's) that involves eating six pre-packaged cookies a day in addition to a regular meal. In other words, it offers cookie monsters an opportunity to satisfy their sweet teeth while only consuming about 1,000 calories a day. Sounds like a great idea to me! Who needs meals?

We know better than this. Plant-based food, people. Stick with actual meals and enjoy an Oreo when necessary. But for the most part, try to avoid eating items that come out of a box. Or a purse.

Soy Vey!

2009-10-17T10:29:00.006-04:00

We're more than halfway through National Vegetarian Awareness Month, and the big question is: How are YOU celebrating? By going raw? By going green? By going to Peter Luger's?

Vegetarianism has many faces - be it a vegan student majoring in women's studies at a college in the Hudson Valley, a raw food chef in the Bay Area who hasn't heated enzymes in three decades, or some guy at Whole Foods in Union Square eyeing the buffet's barbecue seitan. Could you eliminate all animal product from your diet, happily feasting on xylem and phloem tubes or developing a huge hankering for almond milk with your oats? And if you could, why would you want to?

It's a valid question. May I now present to you a valid answer (a whole list of them).

Sex Cells

2009-10-14T12:13:00.004-04:00

A study conducted by Samsung recently revealed that nearly 1/3 of Chicagoans prefer their cell phones to sex partners. The survey indicated that 3 in 10 participants (emailed at random) would rather give up sex for a year than abstain from their phone activity for the same amount of time. What does this say about the sociology of technology? What does it say about the city of Chicago?

Another interesting little statistic revealed by this study: More than half of those preferring texts over sex were women. That's right - it's two for the price of one for the lady who'd rather the phone and sets it to vibrate.

Clover And Out

2009-09-23T15:26:00.005-04:00

Tooty-fruity tobacco, no more. With the recent enactment of a law banning clove and fruit-flavored cigarettes, the FDA has now sent out a letter warning all tobacco companies tobacc...off! It comes as no surprise that cigarettes designed to taste as sweet as candy appeal to a certain young, impressionable population. According to the FDA's Center for Tobacco Products, 17-year old smokers are thrice as likely to smoke cloves and fruit-flavored cigarettes than 25-year olds. And I'm sure if they were to further investigate, those 25-year olds quite enjoyed flavored tobacco products when they were 17. So besides the obvious - that smoking cigarettes is an effective way to shorten one's life - I'm sort of curious about when these sweet ciggy enthusiasts shift into the stale stink of plain cigarettes.

Celebrate National Yoga Month

2009-09-01T12:10:00.005-04:00

If you've been looking for the perfect excuse to get to yoga class, go no further. September is National Yoga Month, and what better way to celebrate than to roll out a sticky mat and fire up your pranayama? You don't have to be an advanced yogi (or even touch your toes) to experience the many proven benefits of developing a regular practice... so no excuses! Check this out this list of 50 health conditions improved by yoga according to multiple scientific studies -- everything from insomnia to infertility. If you've simply fallen off the dharma bandwagon this summer, commit to yoga for this entire month -- whether you're maintaining a daily practice or attending a weekly class. Make Sept 1 your new Jan 1!

You're Gonna Carry That Weight A Long Time...

2009-08-27T12:11:00.010-04:00

... but only if you exercise on a regular basis. Sort of. An increasing number of dietary experts claim that exercising your demons may, in fact, backfire - in a big way. How could this be if so many people keep off unwanted pounds by spending hours at the gym each week?

As was demonstrated on CBS's "The Early Show" this morning, a workout often causes a workup (of appetite) that results in caloric consumption which often surpasses what Sally just burned during her spin class.

Fact: Daily yoga classes will not compensate for nightly Cinnabons.

Save that bun-of-sin for rare occasions (or the next time you have time to kill in an airport). Instead, stick with the power yoga but ease up on whatever post-workout snack or meal you're planning to devour. Keep in mind that your hour-long workout is probably burning no more than 500 calories, so sate your ravenous hunger thoughtfully.

Conserve your health as much as your wealth. Now go hit the gym!

Is H1N1 The New Y2K?

2009-06-17T14:38:00.002-04:00

So far, 75 countries have been affected. And with over 35,000 confirmed cases and 165 confirmed deaths (23 in NYC alone), the World Health Organization recently declared H1N1 a global pandemic. Do these alarming numbers serve to warn us of the harmful effects of globalization? We've seen how the economic meltdown has affected everyone from New York to New Zealand and how political breakdown in some countries have only worsened with international intervention, but will it a take a worldwide health scare such as this, to slow down the ever-rapid pace of interconnectedness? Perhaps H1N1 will go down in the books as another Y2K phenomenon, a perceived time bomb that luckily never exploded. Or perhaps it's time to start planning that stay-cation.

Elder Flower

2009-04-26T21:34:00.003-04:00

... is one way of saying "83-year old in padmasana" (lotus pose).

Exhibit A: Bette Calman, an Australian octogenarian, has been practicing yoga since the 1950's, teaching yoga for 40 years, while enjoying advanced poses (arm balances, binds, and inversions) well into her eighth decade - by attending/teaching class up to 11 times a week! The Ozzie Yogi insists, "You're never too old. The body is a remarkable instrument." Perhaps even more incredible than her still-strong holistic practice, is the age that she began her yogic journey. (after doing the math, it seems that Bette began practicing in her early 40's).

So the next time you feel too old and out of shape to give yoga a shot, think of our friend down under -- throwing her legs up and over!

Sun of a ...

2009-04-21T08:38:00.003-04:00

A spate of recent surveys sheds light on why white, middle class men over 50 account for half of all melanoma fatalities in the U.S., whereas women seem more likely to engage in self-detection and/or seek medical care for suspicious moles and skin growths. Some men pride themsleves on their outta sight outta mind approach, but guys - turn around in the mirror and check out what's happening back there!

The study notes that doctors are more likely to detect and treat early-stage melanoma in patients who:

A) have prior (family) knowledge of skin cancer

B) have a personal history of atypical moles

But that doesn't help the less than 50% of men who never check their own skin for symptoms or the less than 20% who don't even know what the warning signs are.

Since the majority of men already spend quite a bit of time examining themselves, regularly inspecting the skin for irregularities should be a no-brainer.

(Insert Semi-Clever Dog Pun Here)

2009-04-16T16:53:00.006-04:00

Looking for an excuse to get into a yoga routine? Behold, the power of doga. You and your beloved canine can now enjoy the many benefits of yoga together (better posture? inner peace? reduced anxiety when visiting the vet?), according to this newest wave of yoga practitioners. Doggie yoga has been catching on in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh - though I would have guessed Sedona, AZ, along with any other energy vortexes. Both owners and yoga teachers agree that partnering with pooches creates an incredibly relaxing experience by "honoring where your dog is {in his or her doga practice} and remembering that dogs respond to our energy."

Doggie Yogis May Experience:
-A Sense Of Ease
-Enlightenment
-Tail Wagging

Yogi Doggie Owners May Enjoy:
-Furry Yoga Props
-Mind-Body Balance
-Meeting Others Of Wack Mind

At the very least, owners will have an opportunity to train their yogi puppies to sit, roll over, and namaste.

Roll With A Twist (And A Side Stretch, Too)

2009-04-14T13:18:00.004-04:00

This past Sunday's annual White House Easter Egg Roll featured a theme of wellness and health in addition to the usual countless pastel eggs careening down the South Lawn (13,000, to be exact). Michelle Obama arranged for the event, titled Let's Go Play, to include healthy snacks, nutrition and cooking demos, and a variety of sports and activities, including yoga. The Easter Roll's wellness focus fell right in line with Mrs. Obama's recent organic garden groundbreaking ceremony on the South Lawn, in an effort to promote and educate the American public about healthy eating. Let's just hope their new puppy, Bo, doesn't get into the vegetable patch!

S&Ommmmmm

2009-03-23T09:52:00.003-04:00

Just when it didn't seem possible for yoga in New York City to reinvent itself with another innovative, if not gimmicky, fusion style, Yoga Fight Club has arrived. The latest craze, purported to "Unleash Your Inner Warrior", combines traditional yoga with a cardiovascular, strength-building workout designed to kick your asana. ABC's Good Morning America recently did a charming little segment on the Midtown yoga studio and its Swami-turned-Rocky owner. And though the typical yoga student might raise her eyebrows before raising her fists in Virabhadrasana (Warrior) pose, Yoga Fight Club may, in fact, tap into subtle body energies long associated with this 5,000 year old Indian practice. Consider the power of Kriyas - quick movements combined with yoga breath work and hatha poses that induce an internal cleansing action. For example, a forceful exhalation accompanied by a bit of shouting in the various Warrior poses (don't knock it till you've tried it) purges the body of stale breath, increases perspiration, and clears out stagnant energy channels -- a sort of spring cleaning for your body and soul -- though the jury is still out on whether yogic kick-boxing actually awakens one's hibernating Kundalini energy (especially since Punxsutawney Phil saw his own shadow back in February).

The City That Can't Sleep

2009-03-11T10:06:00.003-04:00

A recent poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation has found that one third of all Americans (up from the usual 40 million) are struggling to get a good night's rest, with economic uncertainty topping the list of factors causing the mass insomnia. Are millions of Lunesta and Ambien prescriptions about to turn 33% of American adults into groggy, half-functioning individuals muddling through their days? Let's hope doctors encourage their patients to explore meditation before medication: Yoga (and exercise in general) has long been associated with a better night's sleep. And what effect does sleep deprivation have on the body? A recent Carnegie Mellon study indicates that poor sleep efficiency (less than seven hours a night) significantly compromises the immune system, while other findings have revealed long-term health issues, including an acceleration in the overall aging process.

A few suggestions for a better night's sleep:

- check for monsters under the bed

- eliminate any and all peas under the mattress

- acquire as many Krugerrands as possible

New York City - A Picture Of (almost) Perfect Health

2009-03-05T18:23:00.004-05:00

Looks like that scary anti-smoking campaign throughout the subway system worked: NYC has 300,000 less smokers since 2002. And 364,000 more city residents have a primary care physician. Not to mention, there's been a steady drop in alcohol, drug, and AIDs-related deaths. The Big Apple's fiscal health might be a mess but its physical health has improved in the past seven years, according to a recent study conducted by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. One thing to note - it doesn't seem that the city's two-year trans fat ban has done much to curtail obesity rates. Damn you, Beard Papa!

Kiss This!

2009-03-04T11:14:00.005-05:00

Philematology - the science of kissing - recently offered up a rather compelling research finding: A big wet one might be just the thing to manage these stressful times. When two people share a deep, French kiss, the sexy interchange of saliva induces a chemical and hormonal shift in both smoochers. Surprisingly, oxytocin, a hormone typically associated with the emotional bonding induced during the female orgasm, appears to increase in men while decreasing in women. Women, equally surprisingly, experience an increase of testosterone levels in their saliva, suggesting a sex drive surge more often associated with men. So kissing makes men want to cuddle and women ... ? Quite the biological switcheroo. But what seems consistent in both sexes is a significant reduction of the stress hormone, cortisol. Overproduction of this particular hormone can lead to such issues as a weakened immune system, sleep problems, and weight gain. And if lip-locking isn't a current option to keep your stress in check, consider these other cortisol-reducing activities.

Sex Rx

2009-03-03T07:02:00.003-05:00

The next time you find yourself wandering the aisles of Walgreen's, head over to their newly touted sexual wellness section. The national drugstore chain has recently introduced a Swedish sex product line, Lelo, to its shelves, in the hope of increasing the sensual quality (and, therefore, overall health) of its customers' lives. It's no wonder Walgreen's decided to carry Lelo's accessories; they have a rather discreet, if not artsy, design (sort of a cross between Toys in Babeland and the MoMa Design Store). But don't mistake that rechargeable gentleman's ring for a resin napkin holder just yet. As for which section of the store will contain the new line: Family planning? Seasonal? Household items? Whatever the case, that's one prescription people won't mind refilling.

Inner City To Find Its Inner Bliss

2009-02-27T08:24:00.004-05:00

Gwyneth Paltrow and Urban Zen Foundation recently teamed up to raise money for NYC's inner city schools, all in the name of nirvana. Or dharma. No wait, definitely karma. With tables going for up to 25K a pop at the recent Bent on Learning 2009 event, sounds like these kids will be afforded all the perks of practicing yoga. In addition to providing a nice workout out for a teen population hooked on Utz potato chips and soda, yoga will hopefully also induce a bit of relaxation and inner balance -- always helpful when managing surging hormones and adolescent drama. Bent on Learning'ss mission of promoting physical wellness and mental focus through yoga and meditation outreach programs could be an increasingly effective approach in dealing with high-risk kids in underserved communities -- by providing a foundation of mind-body awareness early on, perhaps such issues as obesity, substance abuse, and violence could be curtailed, if not simply managed in a less bureaucratic manner... or is that too much of a stretch?

Mardi Pose

2009-02-24T14:15:00.008-05:00

Mardi Gras has quietly arrived, marking the end of Carnival and giving way to Lent, but at what point between Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday (metaphorically speaking) do we begin the balancing act between indulgence and sacrifice? I'd say at the very center of a yoga mat. A few balance poses to consider:

Ardha Chandrasana (half moon pose)

Natarajasana (dancer pose)

Garuasana (eagle pose)

Happy centering!

Stairway to Heavin'

2009-02-23T11:33:00.003-05:00

Apparently, King Kong was quite the cardio trendsetter. With the Empire State Building hosting its recent 32nd annual ESB Run-Up in early February, an invite-only event offering runners an indoor racing alternative during cold weather, perhaps it's time for more New Yorkers to take to the stairwells. If not the 86 floors leading to the world-famous observation deck, then the steep flight motionlessly ascending alongside subway escalators. Remember how much fun we all had, climbing and panting up to our apartments during the citywide blackout in August of 2003? This trend is nothing new for the many residents living on the top floor of their five-story walk-ups, but if that Equinox membership is winding down, perhaps it's time to consider running up...

2009-02-14T14:15:00.004-05:00

There was a man who loved one thing.

When that was gone, he loved everything.

-Leonard Cohen

Belugasana

2009-02-10T10:52:00.006-05:00

The world's largest aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, has recently begun offering yoga classes in the company of its three Beluga whales. Though not nationally certified by Yoga Alliance, the Belugas serve as quite the backdrop during yoga classes, which are conducted in front of the aquarium's large tank. According to one of the program's yoga instructors, the animals' graceful and serene movements inspire students to connect with their own sense of inner calm.

Here's hoping safari companies don't catch on to the newest yoga trend.

Re-resolution

2009-01-28T11:48:00.003-05:00

With this past Monday kicking off the Chinese Lunar New Year (Year of the Ox), why not give Jan 1st's resolution a second shot? At this stage in January, your plans to work out five times a week or drink less on the weekends have most likely waned, if not completely vanished. So get back in the game!

And, if you happened to have been born during a previous Ox Year, embrace your traits of acuity, responsibility, and efficiency (maybe skip out on your propensity for outbursts and bigotry).

A few famous Oxen:

Barack Obama
Jane Fonda
Margaret Thatcher
Meryl Streep

Oystercized

2009-01-27T01:37:00.003-05:00

Whole Foods is delighted to announce its February campaign, Be Good To Your Whole Body, in honor of libido-limpid Americans everywhere looking to turn up the heat. In-store lectures and podcasts will cover such topics as:

-herbal supplements for a stronger sex drive

-culinary aphrodisiacs and candlelit dinners

-aromatherapy 101

The campaign has been mounted to address recent findings that 15% of men - and 32% of women - lacked sexual interest in the past year. Women allegedly felt that stress was the main cause of their dwindling desire.

Given the penny-pinching tactics brought on by the recession, I suspect shopping at Whole Paycheck for its stress-reduction lectures and sexually enhancing organic greens might... soften this recent campaign.

Sage Advice

2009-01-23T22:45:00.004-05:00

NY-based Corcoran real estate broker and feng shui practitioner, Debra Dunier, sent out a press release one day after the Obamas moved into their new home, suggesting a variety of ways the first family could purge any lingering energy left behind by the former Bush administration. Among her suggestions? The Native American ritual of smudging, where white sage is burned in the corners of all rooms to do away with energetic impurities and allow for more positive vibrations.

Interesting recommendation for the Obamas. Now if we could only arrange for a smudging in all four corners of the earth.

Inversion Aversion

2009-01-21T17:08:00.001-05:00

I avoid doing handstands in my yoga practice. Headstands for that matter, too. For the past ten years, I've stuck to the kinder, gentler inversions (shoulderstand, full wheel, even support bridge pose) when it comes to elevating my heart above my head and letting the oxygen-rich blood flow from my toes over my organs and into my brain. The viparita karani (Sanskrit for "opposite process") experienced during yoga inversions allows us to see the world from a different perspective (literally) while moving around the stagnant energy-based impurities often associated with our digestive tract. It's also an excellent method to improve the body's circulation.

So why, after a decade-long practice, have I avoided the "king" inversion poses? Because they scare the hell out of me! I don't like feeling destabilized, upside-down, and/or out of control while on the yoga mat... or in my life. The solution? Get out of the comfort zone and start viewing the world from the ground up--even if it's scary.

My 2009 resolution was to eliminate my inversion aversion and become a better yogi and teacher for it. I'm happy to report that after dedicating a portion of my daily practice to headstands and handstands, I've conquered the fear after three weeks. Ok, so I'm exploring my new infatuation with upside-downess against a wall, but by the time my birthday rolls around (mid February) I hope to be balancing in the center of the room, an island of balance and confidence unto myself.

Finally, I'm head over heels!

(Note: inversions should be practiced with caution, especially if you or your students are pregnant or suffering from high blood pressure).

Obama-Rama!!!

2009-01-20T13:02:00.001-05:00

Ranch Stressing

2009-01-19T14:19:00.004-05:00

Canyon Ranch has recently opened its third wellness resort in sunny, sizzling Miami; and like its Lenox, MA and Tucson, AZ spa siblings, this one offers guests a holistic and pampered approach to Power of Possibility--even as personal spending becomes an impossibility for wealthy yoginis who enjoy organic martinis. Will Canyon Ranch offer relief and renewal amidst the recession or will this sort of spa getaway remain as eerily quiet as the city surround it? Time to reconsider taking a B.Y.O.B. staycation.

Skip The Skippy

2009-01-16T14:07:00.001-05:00

The recent salmonella outbreak associated with peanut butter consumption has resulted in a nationwide recall of the protein-packed sandwich adhesive. The time-honored PB&J tradition may be halted for the moment, but worry not: Barney Butter to the rescue. No, not the purple dinosaur (though perhaps an appropriate selling point for the targeted demographic) but an alternative nut spread that is way more delicious and nutritious. And somehow, more adult. Almonds are often hailed as the most powerful nut, so why nut switch gears and enjoy this new and improved jelly mate? Barney Butter is only available in select states (sadly, not including New York), so order online or visit your local health food store for their own selection of almond butter brands. Crunchy and/or smooth--you'll never go back! Co-workers will marvel at your AB&J bagged lunches. LDL cholesterol levels from coast to coast will drop faster than peanut butter sales. Quite a lovin' spoonful.

Yoga Bare

2009-01-15T01:34:00.000-05:00

In honor of the bitter cold front blowing into Gotham, might I suggest peeling off your many layers and heading over to Naked Yoga NYC for a bit of nirvana in the nude? With classes scheduled throughout January, who says you have to wait until Memorial Day to show off your cute yoga butt?

Uptick In Downdogs

2009-01-14T09:11:00.001-05:00

Yoga studios and gyms across the country are reporting a surge in class attendance as the economy weakens and wobbles. Perhaps well-heeled yogis are able to maintain their weekly private yoga lessons, but many gym members are trading in 45 minutes on the elliptical trainer for 60 minutes of vinyasa yoga. What's with the increasing trend? Yoga is a one-stop party shop, offering students an excellent workout, stress relief, and a sense of community (don't knock chanting the Gayatri Mantra in unison with 25 others till you've tried it). Rather than label the growing yoga industry as recession-proof, one marketing director has deemed it recession-resilient. Is it time to add yoga teacher to the list of historically recession-resistant U.S. employment sectors?

Doggy Reiki

2009-01-13T11:03:00.024-05:00

Jennifer Aniston's chronically aching, boyfriend-hating (can anyone stand John Mayer?) dog is reportedly being lavished with a $250-a-week holisitic regimen of massage, reiki, and acupuncture. The aging pooch is said to suffer from joint stiffness, persistant pain, and Mayer-specific malaise.

Good to know that spa treatments and energy work are readily available for animals such as Aniston's beloved Norman. Quite a happy ending to the story.

Tips For Smoother Sailing in '09

2009-01-12T09:20:00.005-05:00

Take Some Recession Risks. Has the daily pace of NYC caused you to lose sight of things? The stressful reality of a recession can create an opportunity to reconsider certain life priorities and goals. Consider what you want out of your career, relationship, creative project, fitness regimen, etc. and put it in writing. Read it out loud. Write it again. Post it in several places. Absorb it until you exude it.
Seek Out Your Personal Mind-Body Balance. Getting your house in order is the first step to improving the quality of your life, and the formula is different for everyone. So start by being good to your body (slowly step away from the 500 calorie Starbucks beverage) and work from there. Don't forget to break a sweat several times a week in whichever way you see fit ;)
Enjoy Flying Solo From Time To Time. Have fun on your own watch - whether you're single or in a relationship. Being comfortable and resourceful enough to enjoy city life as an individual is good for the soul as well as the sole adventurer. It's a sexy quality - one that will enhance your relationships.
Don't Waste Your Time Dating The Wrong People. Does he continually send mixed messages? Has she failed to appreciate your constant efforts? Then fuggedabout it! Try to stay open and available for the right connection rather than make room for the wrong person.
Laugh Early and Laugh Often. Keep it all in perspective with a little humor. Life has no script and by better responding to its absurd, random, and unexpected elements, a sense of humor goes a long way.

How To Succeed In Savasana Without Really Trying

2009-01-09T15:36:00.003-05:00

So you've made it to the end of another intense yoga class, and moving into your final resting pose, supine on the sticky mat, your body releases any remaining tension and melts into the floor, palms up, eyes closed. White sage is burning in the far corner. Cat Power is softly playing in the background. Corpse Pose never felt so good.

Also known as Savasana, Corpse Pose often marks the end of yoga class, providing an opportunity to rejuvenate the body while in a deep state of relaxation (snoring optional). When a student is new to his or her yoga practice, these final ten minutes can feel like a bizarre, if not arduous, attempt to keep quiet and still. Often the mind wanders, self-consciousness takes over, and sneaking peeks at the other resting students becomes a little game in which you hope the teacher doesn't notice. And if the instructor actually comes over to massage your third-eye point with a bit of lavender oil? Time to roll up your mat and get the hell outta there!

But sometime down the road, a few classes or a few months later, this end-of-class ritual becomes more natural, even enjoyable, until eventually ... it's downright irresistible. As your practice continues to deepen, so does your experience with Savasana. The final moments can take you though a wormhole of altered sensations, temporal shifts, and enlivened exhaustion.

What makes a Savasana so darn yummy? We look to the endocrine system and the metabolic process of anabolism. In short, the endocrine system, which is responsible for regulating hormones through various glands (often said to align with the body's major chakras), releases chemicals that signal an anabolic state, allowing the body's cells to repair and rejuvenate.

Anabolism--and a dash of lavender oil--can turn Savasana into any yogi's favorite cheap thrill.

Tea-Licious

2009-01-07T11:12:00.006-05:00

In an effort to offer healthier options on a menu fraught with fattening froth, Starbucks has recently launched a new line of teas, including three lattes and two nondairy drinks. These new beverages, with the exception of one, are all under 200 calories and they range in price from $2.40 to $3.50.

But for that cost and caloric value, I strongly recommend Bubble Tea instead. Also known as Boba, a Mandarin term which literally translates into "dominatrix of balls", this deliciously sweet beverage contains little pearls of tapioca which rest at the bottom of the drink, only to be joyfully sucked up one by one (or several at a time!) through an unusually thick pastel-colored straw. And though bubble tea has been popular throughout Asia since the 1980's it has only recently captivated the U.S. In the past three years, I've watched the Bubble Tea Houses of Chinatown grow and expand conceptually, moving into a variety of neighborhoods and providing all New Yorkers with an opportunity to sip squishy little black balls through a brightly colored straw.

Too bad Starbucks didn't think of that!

Freedom Is A State Of Mind

2009-01-06T20:25:00.007-05:00

One more unlikely group of yoga students discovering its calming and liberating benefits: South Africa's prison population. Groenpunt Maximum Security Prison is known for brutal violence, harsh sentences, and a widespread HIV problem--the anger and aggression among inmates is rife. But in recent months, prisoners have been offered yoga classes that focus on breath work in order to control emotions and find a greater sense of peace within themselves. Within in a week, teacher Ansuya Khoosal saw a marked difference in her students' demeanor and ability to better control their actions. For those prisoners serving life sentences, it is an opportunity to find a sense of freedom within themselves. For the others, it provides a set of tools that may help them lead more productive lives upon being released.

Yoga projects are also being increasingly established in the U.S. prison system, with similar goals in mind. If breath work and yoga poses could curtail the often lifelong vicious cycle of inmates falling in and out of the system, imagine how it could potentially alter this country's prison industrial complex.