Healthy Body, Mind, and Spirit

This month our focus is health; taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I was blessed with an amazing training at USM (University of Santa Monica) where I received my Master's in Spiritual Psychology to focus on those four areas of life. I learned how to keep in balance with all four areas; I created habits that I still practice 7 years later.

It is important to take care of ourselves as we care for others- our children, spouses, parents, grandparents, staff, co-workers and friends. If you have looked at YogaBuddies website, you have likely read that I am a breast cancer survivor. For two and half years I have been cancer free. The first question people ask, since I already look so young, is how old were you when you were diagnosed? I was 32. I am 35now. Having breast cancer was another reminder to me of how important it is to take time to nurture my Self. I feel my purpose in life is to teach kids (of all ages) to be healthy in all of its forms, including learning to being open, appreciating their bodies, nurturing and calming themselves, and practicing awareness of how they are feeling.


Here are some ways for each of the four areas mentioned above that you may consider trying to achieve a holistic, healthy life.

PHYSICAL - Exercise: walking, running, yoga, swimming, biking, dance, hiking, rock climbing, Pilates. Eating organic, Drinking plenty of water, Eating fruits and vegetables.


MENTAL - Reading, Learning something new/taking classes, Puzzles, Suduko, Crossword puzzles, Card games, Watching Documentaries, Playing an instrument.


EMOTIONAL - Journaling, Therapy, Hanging out/talking with friends, Taking deep breaths, Crying, Laughing- watching funny movies and/or going to comedy clubs.


SPIRITUAL - Meditation, Going to a place of worship, Being in nature, Practicing unconditional love

Pose of the Month: Windshield Wipers

Start by laying on your back with arms extended out on the floor. The knees are bent with feet flat on the floor. Take the knees and slowly lower them to the left, turning the head to the right gazing at right hand, creating a twist. Take a few breaths here then come back to center and switch sides. This time dropping the knees to the right and turning the head to the left.

This is a relaxing and nurturing pose. It stretches the back and massages the internal organs

5 Tips: Staying Healthy for Kids

It is really important to be a fit kid!

When you are healthy and fit, your body works well, you feel good, and you can do all the things you want to do: like sports, yoga and having fun with others.

Your Buddy knows that if you want to be fit, these tips will help:

1. Eat a variety of foods, especially fruits and vegetables. Try new foods, new tastes and textures often. You'll be surprised at what you will like!

2. Drink water and milk most often. When you're really thirsty, water is the perfect thirst-quencher. Milk builds strong bones and gives you calcium, a mineral your bones need to be healthy.

3. Listen to what your body is telling you. Take notice when you're eating about how your body feels and when your stomach feels comfortable; this way you're mindful not to overeat. Also, pay attention to when you are tired, and make sure you are getting enough sleep.

4. Limit time watching TV, DVDs, playing video games and using the computer. Make time for healthy activities like sports, yoga, bike riding and swimming.

5. Be active. It is fun to be a kid because you can play and learn new games, new sports, new yoga poses and new activities-every day! Explore, talk to others and try new things. Life is meant to be fun!