Why Yoga Lovers Live Like Elves

Grow your elvish heart.

Fans of the JRR-Tolkiens work will undoubtedly know what it is to be an elf, to live in a particular kind of existence, so how does this relate to yoga?

Yoga is a way of life for those who practise daily. It is not just about obtaining the ability to perform the perfect handstand or to stretch enough to put your leg behind you head. Yoga is a state of being. A state of being that remarkably parallels that of elves.

Somebody actually remarked to me the other day 'yoga is not fashionable any more'......... when did such a beautiful state of being turn into something that can become unfashionable?

I'll move on........ Lets start by discussing what most do understand about yoga..... Movement.
The ability to gain strength, flexibility and control by placing the body into certain positions takes great focus and spacial awareness. Feet and hands engage with the ground with precision and careful thought. The body flows, allowing energy to move and grow whilst continually creating  the awareness of presence in ones self. Utilising the intake and 'timing' (flow) of the breath (life force) helps cleanse the body and maximise energy and it's movement.

Yoga offers a meditation, a grounding. The focus required to physically perform yoga helps to re focus the mind, It helps create an awareness of self and the connection we have to the world (and beyond). We see a bigger picture and understand the lives of others, We find empathy and compassion and unconditional love for all living things. Yoga helps us understand emotional arousal. We understand that to be angry or unkind creates an energy draining black hole. It teaches us to let go and forgive to be serene and wise.

Individuals who regularly practise yoga begin to understand the environment with in their bodies.
The choose not to pollute themselves and opt for healthy healing diets, Consuming that which nourishes the body and the soul.

One of the most beautiful aspects of yoga is how it has evoked a connection with words, their meaning and the effect your own words can have on another or how I can stop allowing the words that others to induce pain or cause a 'rise' in to an emotional state.
Food is sweeter,colours are brighter and there is a growing connection to nature forming.

Whilst out running down a small country lane last summer, I turned a corner to see standing 50 meters in front of me...... a beautiful deer. Yes I know.... hardly mythological but.... rarely seen in this particular area. I stood frozen completely held by the connection of our eyes. Still watching me he walked off the path towards the trees. He turned and jumped on to a small wall. Stopped.... glanced back and me .... then was gone. This encounter resonated deep with me .....one I have not forgotten.

I believe in the healing power of crystals and I know I am a better person due to a daily meditation practice (even just 10 minutes upon waking)

My yoga journey has benefited my life in countless ways, but the similarities of a yoga life with that of elves is incredibly paralleled. There is no shame in embracing an elvish way of life. Obtainable even without shooting a bow and arrow.

Wellbeing Winnies Daily Wellness, Prosperity and Health Prescription! January 2nd 2016

Yesterday we talked about introducing manageable changes in to our daily routine.
So while we are making and waiting for the hot lemon and ginger concoction (yesterdays wellbeing prescription) to cool slightly lets get on with 'oil pulling'.

Let me explain...... “oil pulling” comes from the process of the oil being “worked” in the mouth by pulling, pushing, and swishing it around the mouth and through the teeth.  This processes collects bacteria and harmful toxins lurking in the mouth. This type of therapy has its origins in Ayurvedic medicine dating back 3,000 years.

Perform this process in the morning to help after regular teeth cleaning.Using one tablespoon of oil (best results are found with either sesame seed, coconut or olive oil) swish the oil around in your mouth long enough for it to turn a milky white (approximately 15-20 minutes)People that “oil pull” state that it has helped whiten their teeth, alleviate halitosis, and even reduce gingivitis. In many cases, people also claim that it helps “prevent” cavities, as well as relieve gum and tooth sensitivity.  NEVER swallow the oil, ensure that you spit out the oil after use and rinse the mouth well with water.

By this point our lovely lemon and ginger tea should be about ready to enjoy.

(Regular oil-pulling routine should not replace routine dental visits and traditional at-home oral care)