Body of Santa Fe

Trunk Show + Wine + Chocolate + Gifts + Prizes = Awesomeness

2010-06-14T16:51:00.002-06:00

Hello, out there!

If anyone is still reading our blog (bless you, if you are), you'll have noticed it's become a bit moldy. (By moldy, I mean the last blog post was about 10 months ago.) Our blogging has fallen by the wayside as we've experienced a year rich with business and product development. Now we're ready to get back on the blogwaves!

What better occasion to do so than to invite our loyal readers to a summer kick-off trunk show event. :)

So our boutique is pretty booming these days, what with all the luxurious-to-the-touch sustainable and eco-fabrics for summer. EcoSkin carries just about the softest material I've ever touched. Ever. It's buttery and non-clinging, and it formats itself to every body type. Stacia is a beachy, California-inspired line with gorgeous knitwear. Click on these designers - go on, do it, I'll wait here. The photos are fabulous and inspiring. Seriously!

We'll be showing off some selections of these lines, plus jewelry by eco-designer Green Glass. I'd link to their site, as well, but Google search isn't yielding any results. If anyone knows their super-elite, hidden Web address, let me know. We'll give them the link-up.

While you're exploring and having try-on parties with these awesome collections, we'll be serving you free organic wine and chocolate tastings. (Pause for glee-filled squealing). We'll also be offering special prices on the featured clothing, as well as other gifts and prizes from our boutique, just because you guys are awesome.

So come out this weekend, we'll be running this all Friday and Saturday (June 18-19). It's FREE - as in you don't have to buy any of the clothes to enjoy them - but, you SHOULD buy some clothes. Because, they're worth it and one-of-a-kind.

And because you support local business and have fabulous fashion sense. ;)

We'll see you this weekend!

-Bella

(**Photo caption: The gal in the blue dress is ecoSkin's Spring 2010 Lookbook model. Doesn't she look like she's having fun in that cute blue dress?)

"Self Discovery through movement"

2009-08-05T12:47:00.008-06:00

Isn't it about time you begin a deeper journey into yourself? Ask any Nia teacher, and they will tell you that self discovery frequently is rooted in a somatic, body-based experience. Nia combines movement with cognitive exploration, making it an exercise for your entire integrated being. Nia helps condition the body and the nervous system by involving education for the mind, body, emotions, and spirit.

“For me, Nia is movement as medicine. The practice feeds me and allows me to move my emotions, honor my spirit, and express my most wild self!” says Kelle Oien, Nia Instructor. Kelle's passion for Nia extends to the participants of her lively classes at Body, creating an impressive cult following. Stop by to experience the ecstatic celebration of movement that feels more like a party than a workout class.

If you are new to Nia, check out Kelle's weekend workshop "New to Nia - the Basics". The class will be held August 8, 2:00-4:30pm.

Photo Copyright Daniel Quat

BODY Studio on Yogamtes!

2009-07-29T11:46:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago, Body was graced by the presence of Kasey Luber - yogini and journalist. Kasey, also known as Karuna, was on a yoga adventure, in which she visited 50 yoga studios in 50 days. Half way through her journey she stopped by Body to take Emily Branden's Vinyasa with Music class. Check out the video she took in our studio!

For more on Kasey and her organization Yogamates, click here.

Farmer's Market Salad

2009-07-22T14:47:00.006-06:00

We love the Farmers Market in Santa Fe! In fact, we've even developed a seasonal salad as an homage to our talented farmers and food artisans. Last week, Body café visited the Farmers Market, and Lorin Parrish, owner and chef, gave an illuminating culinary demonstration on Body café's raw Swiss Chard Farmers Market salad. If you'd like to try it at home, click here!

Claudia Villela and Bruce Dunlap

2009-07-16T09:19:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard music that could instantly change your mood? One moment you are stressed and tired by a long day at work, but then you put on your favorite music and the stress seems to ebb away. The opportunity has arrived for at least one stress free evening is the daily bump and grind. Claudia Villela and Bruce Dunlap will be playing at BODY Saturday, July 25 at 8:00 pm for a special concert. "Claudia Villela has long been a superior jazz singer...haunting voice, very wide range and an adventurous spirit." LOS ANGELES JAZZ SCENE. And Bruce "His beautifully constructed originals are harmonic in conception, brimming with colorful altered chords that catapult the music into new expressive heights. In the process Dunlap comes up with some unforgettable melodies... The guitarist himself has impressive chops, but you always get the distinct feeling that his virtuosity is in service to the music... Dunlap has created a stirring, intellectually satisfying collection of pieces that have the grace and emotional import of fine poetry." -JAZZIZ

Do not miss this evening of beautiful jazz and a chance to soothe your soul.

-Kendra

Find your own style

2009-07-07T09:28:00.009-06:00

Have you ever noticed all of the familiar faces in your yoga class? That sense of community is one of the best parts of creating a regular practice at Body Studio. Uniting in meditation can be a powerful experience, and creating a weekly dedication to a sacred communal space has the potential to foster significant transformations.

Nevertheless, it can be very enriching to branch out to try a new class in a different yoga style. Find a new community of yogis in one of the 3 Yogic traditions offered at Body. If you've hesitated to try a new style of yoga because you're unsure of what they might entail, take a peak at the following demystifying descriptions.

Hatha Yoga : Focuses on breathing technique and extended meditation. This practice is excellent for purification of the mind and the physical body. This style of yoga is perfect for the beginner, because it tends to be slow paced, and helps develop proper technique in the asanas. ~Taught by Laurence, Tim, and Emily~

Vinyasa Yoga: This technique appeals to yogis who are looking for a faster paced class. All asanas are practiced in a flowing sequence that focuses on alignment and movement. Body offers several Vinyasa classes, occasionally with live music accompaniment. ~Taught by Emily, Sean, and David~

Ashtanga Vinyasa: These classes are generally lead off by a Sanskrit mantra. Historically this tradition originates from an ancient Indian text, the Yoga Korunta, that touted the benefits of following a specific series.

Peter Kater & Dominic Miller, Sting's Guitarist

2009-07-06T11:57:00.002-06:00

BODY is thrilled to present:
“In a Dream”
Peter Kater & Dominic Miller In Concert
Peter Kater was born in Munich Germany in 1958 and later moved with his family to New Jersey where he started classical piano lessons which later led to a deep exploration into contemporary improvisation. His love for Rock and Pop music along with the classics and jazz created a "hybrid" style of his own. Based out of Boulder, CO in the 1980's, Peter and only a handful of musicians spearheaded a brand new genre of music we now know as New Age music. Peter went on to be a leading contributor to Contemporary Jazz radio with several Top 10 national releases. He also helped bring Native American and World Music to the mainstream in collaborations with Native American flutist, R. Carlos Nakai, and Tibetan flutist, Nawang Khechog. Add to that scores for 11 On and Off-Broadway plays, over 100 television programs and many films and documentaries and you're just starting to understand this diverse and prolific artist. Peter has received 5 Grammy Award nominations in the last 6 years, has sold millions of CD's and is a proud recipient of the Environmental Leadership Award from the United Nations. His love of nature and the environment motivates him to work with the media arts to help and inspire support many environmental support organizations. He's recently scored the music to the award winning films "10 Questions for the Dalai Lama" and the soon to be released "Legends of Secret Pass".
You've heard guitarist Dominic Miller play on STING classics like "Fields Of Gold" and "Shape Of My Heart". In fact, you've heard him on all of STING's recordings. As one of the most sought after session guitarists of our time, he is featured on recordings by Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Sheryl Crow, Steve Winwood, Rod Stewart, The Pretenders and Luciano Pavarotti. His recent critically acclaimed all acoustic recording with 5 time Grammy Award nominated pianist/composer Peter Kater features guest appearances by vocalist, Kenny Loggins and cellist, Jaques Morelenbaum. Dominic Miller was born in 1960 in Buenos Aires, Argentina and in 1970 his family moved to Racine, Wisconsin. He took up guitar as a young teenager and later studied with Sabastio Tapajos and at London's Guildhall School of Music. In 1989 Miller met producer Hugh Padgham for the first time, which not only led to Miller's appearance on Phil Collins' blockbuster album "But Seriously”, but also led to his playing on Sting's "The Soul Cages" in 1991. Ever since, Dominic Miller has been a member of Sting's working band, having played on each CD and every tour to date. Sting himself describes him as being "my right hand and my left hand". Not a minor compliment.
Dominic met Peter while working on a film score Peter was composing and recording and the two both felt they needed to record a CD together. “IN A DREAM” was released in late 2008 and July of 2009 marks the beginning of their first concert tour together. This promises to be an inspiring intimate evening of all acoustic music performed by these two very special musicians.
This concert will be held on Monday, July 27, 7:00 pm at the Santuario de Guadalupe on 417 Agua Fria St. Tickets are $25 until July 15 and $30 thereafter and are available for sale at Body. Please call 505-986-0362 for ticketing information. Visit www.bodyofsantafe.com for more information. Sponsored by La Posada de Santa Fe, Resort & Spa.

Body After Dark

2009-07-01T13:13:00.005-06:00

Come dance with us! We are hosting a monthly dance night featuring the talented DJ Ultimate. Spinning a fusion of 80’s, dance, hip hop, pop, merengue, salsa, regueton and reggae, DJ Ultimate brings the right energy for what the crowd wants. Dance your heart out, or just lounge in our Soul room. We offer a wide selection of organic libations, including biodynamic wines and the best organic artisan beers! Don't miss out on the fun! Join us on July 10, at 9pm.

Revisiting The Energy in Healing

2009-06-29T15:34:00.003-06:00

After a very hectic few months I have started to focus on healing myself again before my baby comes. I am 7 months pregnant with my first and have been warned over and over again to take care of myself now because it will not happen again for a long time. I decided to restart Dalahare healing, which has always given me wonderful results. They are at BODY every Monday. It also made me think of an article I wrote some months back about energy work. If you haven't read it, I hope it gives you some insight to all the different forms of healing we have to offer.

-Kendra

As printed in the September 2008 Sun Monthly

The Energy in Healing

Santa Fe has a worldwide reputation for being a healing destination. In addition to having one of the highest number of massage therapists per capita, the city also offers a variety of experiences that go beyond spa massage by offering services that create healing. I have met many people who have moved here specifically to practice healing work and to work on healing for themselves.
Energy work is one the numerous types of healing that are offered in Santa Fe. Practitioners use less-familiar terms such as qi, chakras, auras and energy fields to describe the health and inner flow of our bodies. Many types of energy work — such as Reiki, qigong, shiatsu, Seimei (meaning “vital life force”) and polarity therapy — are based on Eastern philosophies and have been around since the early 20th century. Other practices, such as tantric or pranic healing, are based on ancient Hindu beliefs and have been used for centuries. In addition to these practices, newer forms of energy work have evolved such as Dalahare, a stress-relief and healing methodology developed by notable healer Launi Hansen 15 years ago with the assistance of a scientist and physicist.
The concept of energy work is that we are all made up of energy that constantly ebbs and flows. In Chinese medicine it is called qi, pronounced “chee.” Some relate it to the blood that flows through our veins and the breath that fills our lungs. When we become stressed or ill, this creates a blockage. The energy stops flowing through the body correctly, leading to illness, stress and fatigue. Benefits from energy work differ for each person, but can include relief from tension, pain and stress; the release of stored physical, emotional and mental trauma; better food and vitamin absorption; and increased support of the immune system. The principle is that when we are relieved of stress, we can heal ourselves. Launi hansen states of dalahare, ''its about spiritual harmony and also creating emotional freedom in the physical body which enhances healing.'' she also states quite simply that ''the goal of dalahare is to establish a deeper peace and greater understanding of self''.
In energy work, the hands of the practitioner either do not touch or are gently laid on the body, and usually the client is fully clothed. It is a wonderful option for someone who may feel uncomfortable getting undressed for a massage. The practitioner moves his or her hands over the body part that requires healing or may follow a set pattern of movement to get the energy flowing throughout the body. Qigong works a little differently from other forms of energy healing: instead of lying on a table, individuals move their own body in positions similar to those of tai chi.
These forms of healing can come across a little on the unconventional side to someone who has never had the experience, but the results can be undeniable. I spoke with someone who practices shiatsu, and she said that after giving a treatment to people, she often notices drastic differences in their appearance: their shoulders drop and their skin looks plumper. “The most amazing thing is when they notice that their shoulders have dropped, they haven’t even been aware they were holding them in a tightly raised position.”
I was skeptical in the past, but personal experience has led me to highly recommend energy work. There are some elements that are hard to explain because the experience is unique to each person. The first time I experienced Dalahare, for example, I had no idea what to expect. What I found was that I went into an almost trancelike state, that point where you are just about to fall asleep, but are still conscious. I felt a slight tingling sensation. Afterward, it felt like I was floating in a dream and was the most relaxed I have ever been in my life.
Getting the best results with energy work requires some ongoing treatment, so it is best to work with someone with whom you feel comfortable. There is no quick fix for anything, though some people feel wonderful after just one treatment. Take advantage of all the opportunities we have in Santa Fe and give energy work a try. The results may amaze you.

Organic Dreams

2009-06-24T16:25:00.004-06:00

You spend 1/3 of your day in your bed, but are you sleeping well? Those of us with 100% organic cotton sheets and natural fiber bedding are! High quality cotton sheets breathe better than conventional sheets, plus they are free of toxic chemicals. Synthetic bedding and mattresses actually off-gas toxins from added fire retardants, harsh dyes, and plastics. You don't want to cuddle up to that now, do you?

Natural sheets and bedding are not only a luxury, they can contribute to your health! Check out Body's homewares department to create your own organic bedtime oasis.

-Keryn

BODY expanding again

2009-06-22T12:42:00.002-06:00

Can you believe, we are expanding again? In our pursuit to offer something for everyone we are opening the first section of our expansion in the next few days. The boutique will be expanding to offer more products for men, women, and home. It is a beautiful space and we are very excited. Soon after our culinary school will be opening, which will offer all sorts of culinary classes, from raw to desserts. Keep your eye open for these classes, there will be something for all pallets. Well there is so much more to come, but I will leave the rest as as secret for now. Just know it is more to pamper your body, mind, and soul.
Kendra

New Information on BPA

2009-06-18T10:36:00.002-06:00

I subscribe to a blog by the Organic Consumers Association. I highly recommend everyone sign up. It is incredibly informative about what is going on with world fuel, genetically engineered food, and many other items pertaining to organics. Recently this article was published about the effects of BPA.I am very glad that I replaced all of my to go bottles and coffee cups with ones from BODY which are all BPA-free.

Kendra

this New Studies Link BPA to Heartbeat and Fertility Problems

* By Rory Harrington
Food Quality News, June 11, 2009
Straight to the Source

Fresh research linking bisphenol A (BPA) to heart beat disorders and fertility problems have added to the growing weight of opinion questioning the safety of the chemical.

BPA is used to make hard, clear plastics for food containers, dental sealants and the sealants that line food and beverage cans. Concern over the chemical has been rising in the US resulting in it being banned in two states and an announcement from the Food and Drug Administration to review its opinion that BPA is safe.

Two new studies presented this week at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in Washington are sure to add to the controversy surrounding the chemical.

Irregular heartbeat

A study by a team at the University of Cincinnati (UC) found that exposure to BPA and/or estrogen causes abnormal activity in the hearts of female rats and mice. The group, lead by associate professor of pharmacology Scott Belcher, said that estrogen receptors are responsible for this effect in heart muscle cells.

Belcher said: "There is broad exposure to bisphenol A, despite recognition that BPA can have harmful effects. We had reason to believe that harmful cardiovascular affects can be added to the list."

The scientists said live cultures of cardiac cells isolated from rat or mouse hearts were briefly exposed to BPA and/or estrogen. It found the reaction in terms of heartbeat was sex-specific to women.

"Both compounds caused striking changes in the activity of cardiac muscle cells from females but not males," said a UC statement. "Additional studies revealed that these cellular changes in activity caused improperly controlled beating in the female heart."

Belcher added: "Basically, it's very clear that BPA is acting like estrogen. If we give estrogen at physiological concentrations, then add BPA, it's actually a synergistic effect. It's not like adding the two together. It's worse."

A second study presented by Yale University School of Medicine's reproductive endocrinology team claimed to show adverse effects on fertility in rodents following exposure to BPA.

Gene altering

The group, led by Professor Hugh Taylor, injected pregnant mice with a low dose of the chemical. After the animals gave birth, the scientists analyzed the uterus of female offspring and extracted DNA. They found that BPA contact during pregnancy had a lasting effect on one of the genes that is responsible for uterine development and subsequent fertility in both mice and humans (HOXA10).

"The genes that are necessary for normal pregnancy are altered," said Taylor, adding BPA changed the DNA code and the ability of DNA to express these genes.

He said: "A little transient exposure during a brief time period in pregnancy could permanently alter the DNA of the uterus.

"We don't know what a safe level of BPA is, so pregnant women should avoid BPA exposure. There is nothing to lose by avoiding items made with BPA-and maybe a lot to gain."

Research techniques questioned

But the American Chemistry Council (ACC) rejected the validity of the studies, accusing the authors of "bypassing the scientific process in favor of sensational press releases" and as "a scare tactic that will not promote public health".

Steven G. Hentges, of the ACC, said: "It is disappointing to see that some researchers continue to inject animals with bisphenol A since this experimental technique has recently been acknowledged by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to have very limited value for assessing human health effects. In addition, studies on cell cultures are unlikely to be directly relevant to human health and, unless and until such relevance is scientifically validated, should not be presented as evidence of health risks."

The danger in beauty

2009-06-08T11:37:00.004-06:00

We are constantly bombarded by advertising of beauty products, in magazines, TV, and everywhere else we turn. But the long term consequences of some of those products are too scary to ignore. It all started with an article a few months ago and a little bit of research. It has me looking at beauty products in a whole new light. It seems many of them contain ingredients that are carcinogenic and this includes items at health food stores and products for children. I recently went through my bathroom and threw out at least 50% of the products that were in there. Now I spend more time in the store reading every single label. There are a few items in particular that you really should look out for: Parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben(E214),propylparaben, and butylparaben); PEG's; dioxane 1,4 (most of the time this won't even be included in ingredients because it is considered a by-product. To read more go to http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_18112.cfm); Sodium Laureth Sulfate; phenoxyethanol (which is considered a safer preservative then the Parabens and is in many natural products);OXYBENZONE (BENZOPHENONE-3); and Benzyl Alcohol (Alcohol can be required by the USDA & FDA if no other preservatives are used even in products considered organic). The list can go on and on and some of these are worse then others. The parabens, PEBs, and Dioxane being the worst offenders.You can look up specific products at www.cosmeticsdatabase.com. They rate products on a 1 - 10 scale. 10 being the worst and go into details on why the products are bad. I think it is important that we are all educated on the products that we use every day and contact the companies to tell them how we feel. If we stand up to the worst offenders they will be forced to change their products and create better standards in the beauty industry. I hope this helps you feel empowered to make a difference in the cosmetic industry. There are many companies out there doing their best to offer safer products.

-Kendra

Health & Relaxation are not just for women

2009-06-05T09:06:00.004-06:00

Women, do you invite the men in your life to join you at the spa? Do you encourage them to seek out treatments on their own or maybe accompany their daughters for a day at the spa? It is important to acknowledge that a body treatment at the spa can be a way of honoring a man’s inner peace, physical strength, and internal well being.
If there were a science to figuring out men and their relationship to spas, we who work at and frequent the spas would know it inside and out. But it’s so sporadic that the issue is really more cultural than scientific. I say lets take the challenge of looking at all things; boys, men, spa, and do I dare say emotionally related. From the dressing rooms of Victoria’s secret to grocery store lines, us women can and do talk about our bodies & feelings. But where is it normal for men to do this? If there are places, they often tend to make a big deal about the pairing of men and well umm . . .emotions. As though those two don’t naturally go together. Where are the male spaces for all things feeling related to be normalized and not emphasized?
Since I was a young girl my mother always took me to female bathhouses where women of all ages and emotional states bathed together. I knew as a little girl this is the place where women came to talk with their bodies, about their bodies. But what little boys are exposed to this when they are young? Where can they be in the midst of men of all ages, to be present, absorb, and hopefully understand without ever awkwardly using the word emotion? The most interesting thing about emotions, for men and women, is that you don’t have to do a single thing verbally to fully express them. Science other than spa science shows that translating your intangible thoughts into tangible words through the physical activity of writing is one of the healthiest ways to express oneself. I recently was given a beautiful Royal typewriter from 1966, in pristine condition, and the best part is, it doesn’t type. So when I am really stressed out I take my typewriter in the backyard and type pages and pages of everything I am thinking and feeling. Then I pull out those blank pages and feel like I expressed, it’s out there, and its over, I don’t have anything left over to reflect on. Writing is not the only way to release, though. Maybe the science behind getting men to embrace the spa as women have, lies in the concept, that the tiniest of sighs as you zone out in a massage can equal that of a thousand words.

"You are what you eat"

2009-06-03T14:24:00.006-06:00

We've all heard this adage a million times, but even although the saying may be tired, the truth in it is more relevant than ever. The way you nourish yourself quite literally creates the cells that make up your body, and determines your health. So how would we eat if this simple mantra was going through everyone's head? There's no doubt that organic food would gain even more popularity, and processed food would decline into obsolescence.

Food and nourishment is truly an important and weighted topic, and should not be taken lightly, nor for granted. Give thanks for the nourishment you get from your food, and watch how meals can become yet another daily experience where you can practice consciousness.

If you are interested in how to prepare consciously crafted, healthy food, please join us this weekend for our Raw Culinary Class by Dr. Kartar and Deva Khalsa. Learn how to reframe your conceptions on food to see how it can serve as medicine!

-Keryn

your body and the cosmos

2009-05-13T15:12:00.006-06:00

" Keeping your body healthy is an expression of gratitude to the whole cosmos - the trees, the clouds, everything."

~Thich Nhat Hanh

What do you do to thank your body for carrying you through life? Find a simple way to practice gratitude to your body everyday, and in doing so, see yourself in everything, and everything within yourself.

-Keryn

BODY Style

2009-05-01T06:19:00.007-06:00

Shama considers adding the Corset Dress to her suitcase for a trip to Germany.

BODY Style

2009-04-29T07:37:00.004-06:00

Tacos at Body café

2009-04-28T10:12:00.005-06:00

Have you ever had the pleasure to go on the ultimate foodie's adventure known as Body café's tacos? If you are in the know, you already have tried them. We have clients that travel from out of state just for these yummy examples of Mexican cuisine! Body café offers something for everyone - even in taco form! Satisfy your hunger cravings with a choice of taco fillings for anyone's diet - chicken, tofu, tempe, egg, or my favorite, smoked salmon! ¡Son muy sabrosos!

-Keryn

Happy Arbor Day!

2009-04-24T17:05:00.003-06:00

"Trees are your best antiques." ~Alexander Smith

Today is Arbor Day! Observe this nationally-celebrated day by planting a tree! Relationships with humans take up a lot of time and energy, so creating a bond with non-humans, like trees, must be a conscious choice. Plant a tree to mark a special anniversary, a yearly commitment, or the completion of one of life's milestones. Over the years, your bond with the tree will grow, and your subtle connection has the potential of lasting a lifetime!

I have a special connection with an aspen and a plum tree. What kind of tree are you connected to?

-Keryn

BODY Style

2009-04-16T13:42:00.004-06:00

The cyclical nature of community

2009-04-15T09:24:00.006-06:00

Building community takes work. We all have the tendency to settle into our own private worlds when we aren't making a determined intention to be part of the bigger picture. I dare you to reach out to make a connection in some way that is out of your regular routine. Here are some ideas:

Compliment a stranger
Share something you are passionate about with a friend
Attend a community gathering
Start an communal project with your neighbor
Lend something special to someone
Donate your time to a worthy organization
Offer to help someone

Making these efforts may feel like work at first, however contributing to a community entails reaping the benefits of being part of something that is larger than yourself.

-Keryn

BODY Style

2009-04-09T09:44:00.003-06:00

BODY Style

2009-04-02T09:54:00.015-06:00

BODY Style

2009-04-01T09:31:00.006-06:00

BODY Style Blog

2009-03-27T11:49:00.009-06:00

The new BODY Style Blog is here!

Every day we marvel at the beauty and creativity walking by or through our doors at BODY. We, at the BODY Boutique would like to share these experiences with you by capturing, displaying and celebrating the diverse styles expressed by the members, employees and visitors of our BODY community. It is such a feast for the senses to drink in the wonderful combinations of color, texture, and form that make up an individuals "style"; the witnessing of which translates into the idea that our very bodies are an art form to be dressed and adorned in endless possibilities of expression and play. Which is one of the reasons style is so intriguing; it is always evolving...Just like us.

Beauty. BODY. Individuality.

Come play "dress up" with us and let us know what you think about the images and styles we've chosen for our BODY Style segment this week.more

Miracle Beauchamp, BODY Boutique Buyer
Jacqueline Beam, BODY Boutique Manager

Time & Gravity

2009-03-25T17:07:00.004-06:00

"Time and gravity are the best teachers"

This is what one of Body's great yoga teachers, David, said to the class on Tuesday. Throughout the hour of his class, David guided us through an exploration of gravity and how intense it can be when combined with extended time. My muscles are happily feeling the effects of yesterday's class, which immediately gave me a renewed sense of adjustment - even in my bones. I highly suggest David's class for anyone who is looking for a uniquely meditative and stimulating experience.

-Keryn

Spring renewal

2009-03-20T15:05:00.005-06:00

"To cherish what remains of the Earth and to foster its renewal is our only legitimate hope of survival."

~ Wendell Berry

Take this quote as a reminder of the importance of following an eco-friendly lifestyle. The best inspiration to recycle, purchase green products, and to lower you carbon footprint can be found right outside your front door. Look at each spring blossom as a beautiful symbol of how the earth can renew itself - but only with our help and dedication to protect nature and the atmosphere.

Happy Spring!

-Keryn

Our newest Skin Care - DNA

2009-03-13T12:22:00.002-06:00

We have always loved Spa Tech, but have always wanted to add another line to our spa. We have finally added in DNA. We are thrilled to have them and feel they fit in perfectly with BODY's beliefs. DNA uses only natural, organic, chemical-free and preservative-free ingredients. The products contain no parabens, even the sunscreen is completely natural. All fragrances are natural. (I recently got the night cream and it smells like walking through a rose garden after a rainstorm. Not a fake rose smell, but a true rose smell). DNA also offers cryostem cells. Research has shown they actually slow the aging of cells and increase new skin growth by 71% percent. We really liked the fact that there is a lot of research behind this product. There are many organic products out there, but they do not all have scientific research to back it up.
Sometimes when you hear cryostem cells it might make you wonder, but their cells come from cows. As follows: (cows). The bovines roam free-range in a pristine region of the French Alps. They receive organic feed and are hormone, steroid and antibiotic free. The health and well-being of this special bovine herd is a priority for the DNA Health Institute, and we ensure that these bovine live in a safe and nurturing environment. Embryonic fluid, rich in nutrients and stem cells, is extracted during a carefully calculated specific timeline (within the first trimester of the bovine’s pregnancy) to achieve maximum amounts of stem cells which have not become specific to the bovine genetic composition but contain the DNA information to influence and support human skin. The extraction process is similar to human amniocentesis, a diagnostic procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the amniotic sac, the membrane that surrounds the fetus in the uterus. This cruelty-free method does not harm the bovines and protects the health and well-being of the mother bovine and her fetus. The extracted fluid is soon replenished by fresh embryonic fluid, rich in the biological nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy. The mother bovine replaces the fluid in less than eight hours after extraction. The DNA Health Institute has always been on the forefront of animal and human rights.

Many of the staff has already started using the product and I have noticed drastic results in a few. I highly recommend if you are looking for a good skin care product to try DNA out.

Evening of Spirit

2009-03-11T10:08:00.005-06:00

Body staff is abuzz with excitement for this Sunday's event by Charley Castex "Evening of Spirit"! As the most recent addition to Body's community of psychics, Charley takes residency at Body every Friday to offer in depth life readings that focus on each individual's personal potential.

Charley has been very busy here at Body, and booking an appointment has become competitive. If you haven't been able to book one of Charley's transformative readings yet, join us on Sunday, March 15, for "Evening of Spirit" - you might be one of the lucky audience members to receive a random reading! This is the introductory event, so admission is free!

Prior to the gallery readings, Charley will offer us a presentation of joyous teachings on cultivating an empowering relationship with our own natural divinity. Please join us in a journey of transformative self discovery led by Charley Castex.

-Keryn

Take it slow

2009-03-04T12:48:00.003-07:00

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” - Lao Tzu

Allow yourself to go at your own pace today. Chances are, you still will get everything done with even more precision. Life is not about getting your errands done. Practice fully feeling every moment today. Trust that every task is a stepping stone on your personal journey.

-Keryn

The BODY challenge!

2009-02-20T10:21:00.002-07:00

We encourage all to join us in a transformative 2 week promise to your greatest ally - yourself. Starting March 1st, give yourself the gift of committing to 3 or more of the following awareness building practices. Be sure to check in with yourself everyday and experience the sensation of creating space within. Here are a few of the challenges that some of us here at BODY are taking on...We hope you join us!

* Wake up 15 minutes earlier than usual & start the day with a short meditation. Create an intention for your day.

*Speak the truth, deliver it kindly.

* Eliminate media as much as possible from everyday routines. This includes TV, radio, newspapers, internet, books, etc.

* Spend at least 30 minutes outside each day. Watch the sun set from start to finish, immerse yourself in the night sky, or spend time with the rising sun.

* Create a daily practice of yoga, tai chi, or breathing exercises. Focus on nuturing your body. Thank it for all it does for you.

* Elminate recreational eating. Choose all meals by nutritional value. Listen to your body to determine what foods are best for your individual needs.

* Acknowledge all of your efforts at work, with family, etc... by fully relaxing for a set amount of time each day. Take a nap, a hot bath, or simply sit. Be careful to keep your mind from wandering.

You are beauty

2009-02-19T14:34:00.003-07:00

"The moon lives in the lining of your skin."
-Pablo Neruda

Take this quote as inspiration to find the beauty and the infinite potential that lives within.

-Keryn

A few additions to our website

2009-02-16T09:12:00.002-07:00

We have gotten a lot of comments from our clients over the years about things that will make BODY better for them. We are slowly going through that list to add as many of those items that we can. One of the newest items, is the ability to purchase gift certificates on-line. You can print them right away, email them, or order a gift card to be shipped. I hope it makes it easier for everyone to treat all the people they love. Don't forget that the best way to get a gift card is inside BODY because then you can treat yourself to a chai or hot chocolate in this cold weather. Always feel free to add other items you think could make body better to this Blog or email info@bodyofsantafe.com. The link to purchase gift certificate is http://www.bodyofsantafe.com/body_spa.html.

Kendra

Healthy Resolutions

2009-02-04T13:39:00.004-07:00

The results are in!

Did you know that in our most recent poll, the most common resolution for BODY lovers was split 50/50 between vowing to eat more consciously and dedicating to a more regular yoga routine?

I suppose it is no surprise, our café has been bustling as usual! I've also noticed recently that the studio classes have a wonderful communal energy. Thank you for your participation in the poll!

Next time you find yourself in our café try something from our menu you've never had before. A favorite among BODY staff is the Asian Green Curry (featured in the photo). It's perfect for chilly winter days when you need to warm up from the inside out.

-Keryn

Hasbeens

2009-01-23T11:56:00.003-07:00

BODY boutique is thrilled to announce that we will soon be carrying eco-friendly Hasbeen shoes, Lucky magazine's must have shoes of the year. As one of Sweden's fastest growing fashion brands, Hasbeens are made of ecologically prepared natural grain leather with heels crafted from sustainable wood. Ever since 1972, Hasbeens have been handmade in the same small factory in Sweden. BODY is happy to be the exclusive local retailer in Santa Fe to carry this brand that prizes creativity, joy, quality, and eco-friendliness above all else.

Hasbeens were chosen as the trend of the year in Sweden at the annual Trend Award Gala 2008 in Stockholm. During 2008 Swedish Hasbeens have become one of Sweden’s fastest growing fashion brands, triple their sales during only one year, attract some of the world’s best stores and expanded their brand to sell in more than 15 countries.

We expect our first shipment of Hasbeens soon! Until then, we are having a 25% off sale on all shoes!

-Keryn

Love your Community!

2009-01-19T16:43:00.003-07:00

Here at BODY community comes first, which means we respect everyone's opinions and political leanings. That's why we are so inspired by the following community building project that transcends political parties!

Known as "A Call to Service", this project encourages Americans to get involved with their communities by committing to start volunteering today, January 19, 2009. Spokesperson Michelle Obama motivates us all in an online video to serve our neighborhoods, simply by routinely donating a little of our time.

Find a way your own way to give back to Santa Fe. For a list of local volunteer opportunities, Click here

Wah! is coming to BODY!

2009-01-15T12:01:00.003-07:00

Wah! is a prolific songstress of Sanskrit chant, who seamlessly infuses a unique mix of Hindu chorus, pop, reggae and storytelling. Wah!’s concerts are always uplifting celebrations of spirit that are said to be “sensual enough to accompany candelight and playful enough to make a grown man shimmy”. Audiences tend to be a mix of people seeking a transcendent musical experience and fans who just want to have a night out dancing.

Wah! focuses her performances around interaction, frequently involving the audience in call and response, which she calls “mantras in motion”. The healing essence of mantras may be what attracts so many fans to Wah!’s performances, literally giving listeners good vibrations. Wah! writes all songs with the intention of healing for herself and her listeners, and considers chanting to be a community building practice.

You may recognize Wah! as the guitarist for Krishna Das, the best known American singer of Indian kirtan-style devotional music.

Buy your tickets in advance for this amazing event! Tickets will sell out. Wah! will be in concert at BODY on Saturday, March 28, 7:00 pm. For more information about Wah! Visit www.wahmusic.com

The transformative power of compassion

2009-01-06T10:53:00.008-07:00

Compassion and peace are not the first things that come to mind when thinking of prison life. But with the help of Venerable Robina Courtin, a number of prisoners across country have been able to find peace, and even happiness, during their incarceration.

Venerable Robina Courtin, a nun for over 30 years in the Gelugpa tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, helped to create the Liberation Prison Project, which introduces prisoners to Buddhism. This project helps rehabilitate and provide spiritual refuge to interested prisoners through teaching compassion for others, meditation, and other important aspects of the dharma. The project intends to give prisoners tools to live productively outside of prison, and thus end the cycle of crime and violence that frequently brings people back into prison. The success of this project accentuates the need of rehabilitation on a grander scale; a service that our prisons fail to provide to inmates.

Perhaps the most surprising outcome of this project is that Ven. Robina Courtin successfully teaches happiness (and thus freedom) to people in prison. How inspiring that happiness can be found in such difficult circumstances!

Ven. Robina will be at BODY from January 30 - February 1 to give a series of lectures focused on happiness. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to meet such an important teacher of our time!

Artwork by a Liberation Project student

Click here to know more about the Liberation Prison Project.

-Keryn

Welcoming Winter

2008-12-23T17:41:00.002-07:00

Glittering flakes:
The wind is breaking
Frozen moonlight

- Horiuchi Toshimi

We hope you're enjoying the beauty of winter as much as all of us at BODY. Simply by keeping warm, taking time out of your day to enjoy the seasonal sites, and by going at your own pace, you will be sure to enjoy this wondrous time of year! Remember that winter is the season for introspection and rest. Here are some ways to keep you balanced and in tune with the changes of nature:

1. Meditate 5 minutes longer when you wake up in the morning. Be sure to take a seated pose to get the most out of your practice.

2. Warm yourself from the inside out. Ginger Tea will warm your core.

3. Remember to keep moving. Don't abandon your yoga or nia practice due to a tight schedule. Flexibility will keep your body and spirit nourished.

4. Bundle up and spend some time outside. Open all of your senses to the season. What does this winter look like? What sounds are around you? What are some smells? You might be surprised by what you notice with a heightened awareness.

5. Don't hesitate to hibernate. Follow nature's cues by going to bed earlier. With the sun setting around 5:00 pm, this will be easy.

-Keryn

The coming Holidays

2008-12-23T16:55:00.002-07:00

It is the time of hustle and bustle for last minute shopping for the holidays. Just to make things a little easier we have create many beautiful custom gift baskets for you to choose from. Baskets include A massage with body lotions and oils; a facial gift certificate and our wonderful spa technologies products; baskets for the coffee or chocolate lover; and many more. Don't fret in this last minute time. Drop in to Body boutique and get a wonderful gift last minute. We know how stressful this time of year can be and many of us forget to take care of ourselves. We just want to make it a little easier. And don't forget to drop in and get yourself a massage too!

Better yourself in the New Year

2008-12-16T11:54:00.002-07:00

There are many ways to better yourself both mental and physically. The new year is a time where many of us reflect on the past year, ourselves, and our hopes for the future. Maybe you set a new goal for yourself to begin exercising or to save money.

Reflecting on all the things we often set as goals in the new year, one thing stood out in my mind, continuing education. What way is better to truly improve yourself, create self-empowerment, and to be the best you can truly be. I do not mean the formal type of continuing education. There are many ways to continue your education in this world. Continuing education is about going out and learning things that you did not know before. This can be done through reading books, attending, lectures, workshops, or a class.

Santa fe offers extensive opportunities for growth and learning and there are many classes about health, cooking, and spirituality. If you have taken a “vow” to be healthier this year, instead of struggling with it on your own, go take a class in cooking. There are oppotunites to learn about raw, vegan, vegetarian, or any other type of food. Or maybe you decided you would like to be a better, kinder person; take a class in Buddhism. Learning can help you continue on a healthier track. Joining a gym is great, but taking a class in why it is important to exercise, may help you continue to go to the gym.

Striving to be a better person is attainable through continuing to grow through education. The world offers us every opportunity to grow. We just have to reach out there and grasp it.

My new verision of an old saying, “it is never too late to teach an old dog new tricks!”

Get Healthier with Raw Chocolate

2008-12-15T11:55:00.006-07:00

Have you ever tried REAL chocolate? I'm not talking about that highly processed stuff you find in vending machines or the waxy, chalky stuff that sits on grocery store shelves for ages. I mean raw, natural, unprocessed chocolate - straight from the cocoa bean. Raw chocolate is not only richer in taste and texture, but it is actually considered a medicinal food!

Like many foods, chocolate loses its vital health benefits when processed. Raw chocolate, however, is loaded with bioflavinoid antioxidants, known as flavanols. In fact, raw cacao contains two times the antioxidants of red wine, and three times more than green tea! Cacoa's combination of flavanols and high magnesium content promote a healthy heart, through lowering blood pressure and maintaining a healthy blood flow. Raw cacoa also contains sulfur, a mineral that is actually good for your skin and hair! There are many more health benefits of raw cacao.

Stop by BODY to try our new line of organic raw truffles, and see for yourself. All truffles and Love Cups are handmade and are sweetened with Agave Nectar. Finally you can satisfy your sweet tooth AND be kind to your body.

-Keryn

Harmonize Your Home

2008-12-12T15:16:00.005-07:00

We've all heard of Feng Shui, however the newest trend in mindful home design is inspired by an ancient Indian science of architecture and design. Vatsu, as it is called, is a Vedic design system that incorporates harmony and honors nature as its main precepts.

Much like the philosophy of Feng Shui, Vatsu stresses the importance of the arrangement of furniture in rooms, the home's orientation to the sun, and the power of ornamentation. Vatsu's appreciation for nature is perhaps what has set its recent resurgence into motion. Today's movement towards green, sustainable households that are free of toxins fits right into the philosophy of Vatsu. In Sanskrit, the word Vatsu translates as energy, and through harmonizing the flow of your home, you will find a balance of energy.

If you'd like to learn more about how to balance the five elements of creation; fire, water, earth, air, and space, in your home; you can find Sherri Silverman's book - Vatsu: Transcendental Home Design in Harmony with Nature- in BODY's eco-boutique.

-Keryn

Holiday Giving and Receiving!

2008-12-09T14:51:00.002-07:00

"Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck."- Dali Lama
Although this quote has nothing to do with the giving and receiving of the holidays, it made me think of the deeper level of the holidays. The stress of getting the perfect present, the stress of not receiving the presents we wanted. It is important to remember that it truly it the thought that counts. Remember that you may not have gotten what you wanted, but the other person cared enough to stress themselves over finding you the "perfect gift." Above all the holidays are about love and togetherness.
And I must add in a little shameless self-promotion. We now have gift registry, you can sign up in the boutique. One way to get what you want.
-Kendra

What have you done to GREEN your life?

2008-12-05T11:10:00.004-07:00

As we enter the last month of 2008, I encourage some reflection on the various choices you have made throughout the year to "GREEN" your life. Make a list of all of the conscious ways you have changed your lifestyle to lessen your impact on our earth. Then make a new list, of the ways you plan to continue to grow towards a more eco-friendly existence in 2009! Remember, every small change is an accomplishment, so whether you have donated to an environmental charity fund raiser or you simply have bought your first eco-friendly sweater, it all counts! Little by little, every step you take will help. Here are a few things BODY has done to lessen our impact:

1. All café and boutique bags are recycled and biodegradable.
2. All office paper is recycled and used sparingly. Scraps are re-used for drawing in BODY kids!
3. Our recent remodeling uses recycled and eco-friendly materials.
4. We use Bio-Shield eco-friendly paint.
5. We buy our produce from local organic farmers.
6. Our boutique features eco-friendly, sustainable brands only. Nothing is made in sweatshops.
7. All Gift Wrapping for the holidays is organic and sustainable.

This is only a tidbit of what BODY has done to be an environmentally conscious business, and we are doing more every day!

-Keryn

TIBET: A Compassionate Dialog

2008-12-02T12:43:00.005-07:00

Are you a supporter of Tibet? Would you like to like to know more about the rich culture of the "Land of Snows"? This coming Thursday, we will be hosting a Forum for Compassionate Dialog presented by Tamdin Wangdu. This educational (FREE!) discussion will focus on Tibet and the ways you can make a direct impact to help Tibetans.

Tamdin Wangdu, founder of the Tibetan Village Project, a non-profit organization, has raised funds to help Tibetan people through education, healthcare, and through promoting micro-enterprises for self-sufficiency. His organization offers T-shirts, calligraphic Tibetan prints, Tibetan note-cards and stunning photos. Please join us for this thought provoking and heart warming event. According to Wangdu, this conscious dialog may even " bring your mind closer to your heart and world peace from inner tranquility."

-Keryn

Surviving the Holidays vegan and raw

2008-11-25T13:57:00.002-07:00

Surviving the Holidays Vegan and Raw
As seen in Natural Awakenings Magazine

The holidays are a time of family and food. Eating goes hand and hand with every holiday, making it especially hard if you are a vegan, vegetarian, a raw foodist, or simply trying to lose weight. If you find yourself in one of these categories, you will undoubtedly find this time of year challenging, as it is a time when traditional and comfort foods take precedence in most households, and eating healthy is put off for the New Year. There are many ways to avoid all of the problems that arise for those who are food conscious. Invite your family over for their first raw food feast or bring your favorite raw food dish to your holiday event to share! Bringing a non-traditional dish to a holiday event may feel like a risk, but by doing so you can introduce your loved ones to some very wholesome and tasty holidays meals.

Some people think Raw food consists of only salads or plain granola with no taste. To the contrary, chefs have developed wonderful raw gourmet recipes, such as Marinated Exotic Mushrooms with arugula or Bleeding Heart Radish Ravioli. Introduce your friends and family to this wonderful form of eating that is delicious and beautiful. I highly recommend the book “Raw” by Charlie Trotter and Roxanne Klein. This book presents numerous wonderful recipes that could make your raw food dish a hit at any holiday party. You can find this book at BODY, as well as a five other raw food books that carry some great recipes for all year round. For a wonderful vegetarian book try One Taste by Sharon Louise Crayton.

Introducing family and friends to vegan, vegetarian, and raw food, may be the beginning for them to become healthier in their lives. One taste of delicious raw, vegan cheesecake or chocolate ganache could be the first step. It may be their turning point to make a decision to be healthier, lose weight, lower cholesterol, and feel fantastic. Creating healthy desserts is a great way to introduce people to raw or vegan food. Even chocolate can be healthy! It is only a matter of how it is produced and what is mixed into it that causes it to become high in fat and calories. Surprise your family by not telling them how healthy your dessert is until after they ate it and have been full of praises.

If you do not have time to spend preparing food yourself, BODY café can offer some very special treats for your holiday. You can order delectable cakes, exquisite pies, and many unique raw treats to go. BODY café has raw, vegan, and vegetarian food, as well as selections for those with other special diets. BODY café is currently working on developing their to-go selections, is beginning catering, and will be serving BODY chocolate all made in house. Their goal is to make eating healthy, easier and more accessible for everyone.

Lorin Parrish, Chef and owner of BODY, has shared a few of her favorite recipes for the Holidays. She believes that eating raw means feeling good without sacrificing great taste. There is no reason to give up flavor for health! The recipes are raw and are best when prepared with organic ingredients. Try the local farmers market to get the freshest organic ingredients.
The holidays are a time when it can be hard to eat healthy, but it is possible with a little determination, creativity, and help from BODY café.

Mock Meat Loaf
*1-2 sweet potatoes, grated
1-2 red potatoes, grated
1 turnip, grated
1 onion, cut-up
1 cup cauliflower
1 medium beet, grated
3 celery stalks, with leaves
1/2 lb brazil nuts
3/4 lb pound raw pecans
1 TB nutritional yeast
1 tsp Celtic salt
1 tsp fresh ground pepper1 TB pressed garlic

Put each item in a food processor individually. When each item is processed, place in a large bowl. Mix together and refrigerate overnight. Next day, shape into a loaf. Dehydrate 6 hours at 105. Slice and serve.

*Mashed "Potatoes"*
6 C chopped cauliflower
1 tsp nutritional yeast
1/4 c flax oil
Celtic Salt to taste
In a food processor chop the cauliflower with an "S" blade. In a large bowl fold in the remaining ingredients and put in dehydrator for 1 hour. Serve warm.

Butternut Squash Cookies
4 C butternut squash, peeled and chopped
1 C raisins
1 orange, juiced
1/2 t nutmeg
1 t cinnamon
3 T raw honey
Mash squash in food processor until smooth. Put in a separate bowl. Process raisins and orange juice until smooth. Add raisin/orange mixture, nutmeg, cinnamon, and honey to the squash, and mix thoroughly. Spoon 2 TB size cookie mixture onto a dehydrator tray. Press each cookie to a 1/2 in. thickness. Dehydrate cookies at 115 degrees for 4 hours. Flip cookies and dehydrate for another 10 hours.

Beet Salad
2 beets, peeled and grated
1/2 lg head of cabbage, shredded very fine
3 carrots, peeled and grated
1 C of raisins
1 apple, diced
4 TB lemon juice
4 TB orange juice
1/4 C olive oil
1/4 C water
Mix all ingredients thoroughly

For more information about raw or vegan food contact BODY at info@bodyofsantafe.com.
BOOKS ABOUT RAW
• Raw: The Uncook Book: New Vegetarian Food for Life by Juliano Brotman and Erika Lenkert
• Raw by Charlie Trotter and Roxanne Klein
• RAWSOME by Brigitte Mars
• The Raw Gourmet by Nomi Shannon

Kendra

Love your Faucet!

2008-11-19T15:42:00.004-07:00

We all need water on a regular basis. The more you drink, the better for your health. So while it may be easy to buy bottled water, the ecological impact of plastic bottles is an ugly trade off for convenience. Not only are plastic bottles forming an island of waste in the Pacific ocean, but the carbon footprint that they create simply from transporting the product to your local market is wasteful and unnecessary.

All of us that live in the United States have the luxury of clean water flowing right into our own homes through the faucet! While many people dislike the taste of tap, and question its purity, I suggest you reconsider. Water Departments across the country have strict standards on public water, and test it frequently for contaminants such as e. coli, pathogens, Giardia and chemicals. The regulations on public water are higher than most bottled water standards, making tap the healthier choice! Plus, by drinking tap you avoid nasty problem of plastic leaching into your water.

So, use your faucet! And if you need a re-usable eco-friendly to-go container, check out our line in BODY’s eco-boutique. Our re-usable mugs and water bottles are made from bio-degradable materials and will not leach into your water.

-Keryn

Give yourself a little gratitude

2008-11-18T12:08:00.002-07:00

As Published in the Sun Monthly November 2008
Give a little gratitude to yourself
By Kendra Arnold

The holidays are coming, and so begins the dizzying hustle and bustle of searching for that perfect gift for the ones that we love. Holiday rituals, like shopping, decorating, and attending parties, certainly puts us in the spirit; however these festivities can also create pressure, stress, and frustration. I want to give you all a little reminder that during this time it is important not to forget about yourself. Remember to take a break, relax, and appreciate yourself for all the hard work you have done this year. It is important to reconnect with yourself so that you can be fully present to enjoy this beautiful time of year. Here in Santa Fe, there is a spa or massage therapist right around every corner. Book an appointment for a massage or facial. Take an hour for yourself, to find a little bit of personal peace.

This goes for everyone, no matter male or female, young or old. What good can you be to your family and friends if you are stressed from dealing with too many people, too much traffic, and too much to do in too little time? Taking care of yourself is good for you as well as your family. It takes a lot of energy to balance everyday work and family and then add in the work of shopping, cooking, and traveling for the holidays.

Stress leads to headaches, jaw clenching, body pain and tension, headaches, heartburn, stomach pain, anxiety, depression, and a list that continues for miles. The Mayo clinic offers some suggestions to cope with the holidays, “Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Steal away to a quiet place. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.”

Many men I know cut themselves short; by thinking that spa treatments are for women. I recently got my husband to a massage after some prodding. When he walked out of his appointment, his first words were, “ that was amazing, I want those all the time.” He went on to explain all the ways he felt better. I was thrilled that he now understood the wonders of massage. The benefits of massage, facials, and body treatments are not just about the pampering, although it is a perk. These treatments, when done by a good therapist or esthetician, bring about relaxation and healing in the body.

The medical benefits of massage are enormous. Massage can help alleviate stress, fatigue, muscle pain, and tension headaches. It can also strengthen your immune system and increase your ability to concentrate. Many do not realize how much impact one tight muscle can have on the entire body. A tight muscle can change your posture and balance. This can cause a chain reaction within the body leading to more and more issues.

You might even get yourself a facial. The benefits to your skin are numerous and you get the time to lay back and relax. Facials relax the muscles of the face and jaw, increase circulation, and help lymphatic drainage, which helps drain toxins from our bodies. Don’t forget you will also look great for all of the holiday photos that are coming.

Massage and facials are not the cure all to holiday stress, but they will leave you with less tension. Time constraints are often an excuse to put off taking care of ourselves until later, but it is important to stop and give yourself a break now. Give yourself a little thank you for all your hard work.

Living in the present

2008-11-14T14:48:00.004-07:00

“The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, worry about the future, or anticipate troubles, but to live in the present moment wisely and earnestly.”

-Buddha

Why is it so difficult to always live in the present moment? Even with the best intentions, we all experience mind wandering, with our heads racing to tomorrow’s problems or dwelling on our past failures. Take a breath, and re-center, even if just for a moment. Enjoy the perfection of this exact moment. In today’s world of hyper-stimulation and media bombardment, it is virtually impossible to be fully present all of the time. So start small. Be like water and flow with the present 3 times a day. Make yourself available to anything. You might be surprised what you experience!

-Keryn

Hinoki

2008-11-10T15:52:00.007-07:00

The light snow fall this morning was an exquisite sign of the winter weather that has only just begun. This kind of weather means more time spent inside getting warm and nesting.

This weekend I prepared my home for the cold by creating a cozy winter oasis (i.e. - I completed a major house cleaning session). Once I finished my cleaning frenzy, I burned hinoki (Japanese cypress) incense in each room. Then I had a truly aroma-therapeutic moment. I had been cleaning with such gusto that my heart rate was up, but within moments the hinoki incense quickly relaxed me. The woody-scented smoke brought me back to the present moment and created a sense of peace in each room.

Hinoki is a special type of cypress that is used in Japanese bath houses for tub construction. It is prized for its antibacterial properties and its intoxicating woody yet fresh fragrance. If you'd like your very own cold weather oasis to smell like a Japanese mountain bath retreat, you can find hinoki incense (made by Nippon Kodo) in BODY's eco-boutique.

-Keryn

Venerable Robina Courtin

2008-11-05T09:47:00.002-07:00

We are so pleased to have Venerable Robina Courtin returning this upcoming January. When she came in 2007 the room was packed. If you have never heard her speak she has a thick Aussie accent, but is clear and concise about what she says. She is full of life and spunk. I highly suggest coming to hear her, even if you know nothing of Buddhism. This series of teachings will be called the Secret of Happiness.Ven. Robina Courtin has been a Tibetan Buddhist nun for more than 25 years. Based in San Francisco, California since 1997, she has run the Liberation Prison Project for Buddhist practitioners, working with people in prisons throughout the US. The project helps them with their practice and studies by correspondence and by sending books, tapes, and other materials. She visits prisons in California, Massachusetts, Kentucky, North Carolina and Virginia, giving teachings to groups and meeting them one-to-one. Several of these men are on death row or have life sentences, and some have been involved in gangs, both on the streets and in prison.
Ven. Robina was born in Melbourne, Australia and brought up as a Catholic. She studied classical singing until her early twenties then, went to London in 1967, where she lived for four years. She became actively involved in the radical left, working mainly with a London-based support group for black and Chicano prisoners. In the early 70s she became a feminist and returned to Melbourne in 1972 to work with other radical feminists. In her quest for a spiritual path, Ven. Robina began studying martial arts in 1974, and moved to New York, where she studied karate. She continued her studies in Melbourne until 1976, when she attended a Tibetan Buddhist course in Queensland given by Lama Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche.
In November 1977, Ven. Robina went to Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu, Nepal, where she was ordained. Since then, she has lived as a Buddhist nun in the Tibetan tradition, traveling, teaching, and bringing the Dharma to people both in and out of prison.

Do not miss the opportunity to hear this amazing women.

Kendra

Renown Tuvan Shaman & Throat Singer

2008-11-03T17:07:00.003-07:00

If you have never experienced Throat Singing from Tuva before, you are in for quite a treat! BODY is delighted to present the UnHun Master Throat Singers with Nikolay Oorzhak and Dr. Vladislav Matrenitsky on November 12. Though the music of Tuva is special for many reasons, the main point of interest is how the singers are able to create 2 or 3 sounds simultaneously to create a truly original sound. At first impression, this gutteral yet melodic music may seem perplexing to the Western ear, but its inspiration from nature allows for universal appreciation. Oorzhak was raised in a small village in western Tuva, between Mongolia and Russia where “his only audience were the horses, sheep, and cows.” Oorzhak, who is also a shaman, healer, and teacher, explains that there is a clear connection between Throat Singing and nature. “Throat singing imitates the voices of animals, and sounds created are consonant to sounds of Universe. For me all these sounds are the rhythms of the whole one”.

We hope to see you at this amazing heart opening and healing musical event.

If you are inspired to learn Throat singing yourself, there will also be a Throat Singing workshop on November 19 & 20 at College of Santa Fe.

UnHun Website

-Keryn

Trick or Treat!

2008-10-31T13:05:00.011-06:00

Wishing you a Happy Halloween and Dia de los Muertos! BODY hopes you are enjoying the festivities and the joys of the season. Remember that Body café has a variety of treats for take out or to enjoy right here in the café. From our chocolate love cups to our raw pumpkin pie (you won't believe it doesn't have pumpkin!), there truly is a sweet for everyone. There are no tricks inside of these treats, all ingredients are raw, nutritious, and are completely sugar free! We use agave nectar to sweeten our desserts. Come taste for yourself!

~Check out our menu ~

-Keryn

The Continuous Path of Going Green

2008-10-28T12:18:00.004-06:00

I asked google what it means to be green. Up popped many articles coming from different sides and perspectives on what it meant to be green. Many of the articles had conflicting statements and none of them had a straight forward definition. My question is can we ever really be green? Can our entire society leave no foot print on the world? Can every thing we do be green? The best that I can find is that being green is more about an ongoing process. I do not think that one day you can just be green. We all must strive to do better each day. Take the car less, walk more; Recycle all your scrap paper, find ways to reduce your energy usage; Keep your water usage to a minimum; Keep your heat down and air conditioning up; Turn off computers and lights; Use Energy Star rated bulbs; and the list can go on. Going green is about a promise to the people in the community and the mother earth. It is not something you are. It is really about what you do each day.
I know that I may be repeating myself, but I guess we all need a reminder. When I get reminded then I want to pass it on to others as well. Each day we can get a little further to being green.
Kendra

(Unconditionally) Love your BODY

2008-10-24T15:28:00.004-06:00

“When you stumble...make it part of the dance.”

Being human means facing imperfections. Struggling to attain perfection in one’s life will only create unhappiness and obsession.

With this in mind this weekend, I will try meditating on acceptance of imperfection, in myself and others. Besides, flaws to one person may be character and charm to the next! When you find that you are judging yourself, know that you have the ability to transform that negative thought into something positive. By accepting your own humanity and flaws, you will grow to truly understand the nature of compassion.

So don’t be so hard on yourself - In many ways, life is just a dance.

-Keryn

Salt of the Earth

2008-10-21T14:04:00.002-06:00

Natural, organic food is always healthier than processed food, and apparently this fact is true all the way down to seasoning. Standard table salt, despite its pure appearance, is chemically processed, heated up to 1200 degrees, and may contain anti-caking agents. Conventional salt processing intends to remove impurities, however it removes healthy minerals and natural elements as well. Historically, salt has been an essential part of life, with uses ranging from food preservation to therapeutic bathing, but in contemporary times, it is better known for causing high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Intense processing has turned salt, a natural whole food, into simply sodium chloride, which is hard on the body.

Replacing your table salt with naturally derived Himalayan crystal salt is a way to flavor your food and get 84 essential minerals and electrolytes that are lost in refined salt. Minerals are an important part of the body’s digestion, and electrolytes regulate the hydration of the body, blood pH, blood pressure, and are crucial for nerve and muscle function. Himalayan salt is mined from a source that has been underground for millions of years and thus protected from the pollutants that are found in today’s atmosphere. Find this flavorful, pure, Royal Himalayan Pink Crystal Salt in BODY’s food marketplace, or taste it in your meal the next time you’re eating in BODY Café. It is one of the many special ingredients that our cooks use in our food!

-Keryn

The Wonders of Cashmere!

2008-10-20T09:40:00.001-06:00

Cashmere is comes from the neck of a cashmere goat. The highest quality cashmere has to be hand combed from the goat and cannot be cut or sheared, that is why cashmere is so expensive. Cashmere is collected during the spring molting season when the goats naturally shed their winter coat. The production of cashmere does not hurt the goats in anyway. Cashmere is one of the softest fabrics and can last for years when it is high quality. The hair from the goats neck is the highest quality cashmere and can be very expensive. Cheaper cashmere comes from the goats legs and back. The cheaper cashmere is more apt to pil and is not as warm. In the long run it worth paying the extra price for better cashmere, it will last for years, even decades. Another fantastic aspect of cashmere is that is can be hand washed in cold water. One of our wonderful lines is Qi Cashmere is a contemporary knitwear company that is sexy, chic and always modern. Qi creates new contemporary knitwear each season, with the use of imported yarns, cotton, cashmere, and cashmere blends. Their goal is to offer “Affordable Luxury”. Drop into body boutique to check out some of our beautiful cashmere and stay warm this winter! As our boutique buyer said, "Some women want diamonds, but all I want is cashmere!"

Dress","57",this);' border="0" height="160" width="160" />

Seasonal Depression and the Blahs

2008-10-14T11:15:00.000-06:00

With the clouds over hanging and the rain poring down, I was reminded of seasonal depression. Between 4 and 6 percent of the U.S. population suffers from SAD(Seasonal Affective Disorder) and 10 to 20 percent suffer from a more mild form of winter blues. Symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, decreased levels of energy, weight gain, increase in appetite, difficulty concentrating, depression, and increased desire to be alone. The symptoms of SAD are intense and begin at the end of fall and do not disappear until spring. It is a very serious disorder that often requires medical attention and light therapy, which has been found to reduce symptoms. The exact cause of this condition is not known. One theory is that with decreased exposure to sunlight in the winter, the biological clock that regulates mood, sleep, and hormones is delayed, running more slowly in winter. Exposure to light may reset the biological clock. SAD is diagnosed in women more often then men, but men's symptoms are often worse.

The winter blahs are not fun, but are not as severe as SAD. With winter blahs it is best to get yourself up and moving and do something that you enjoy. Get out, take a class, and get some exercise. Siting around in doors and being sedentary can very often make the blahs worse. Go hiking, skiing, sledding, try something you have never done before like yoga, nia, or dance.

Take of yourself over this long cold winter. Continue to exercise and eat right even though your body wants to hibernate. You'll feel better in the long run, suffer less blahs, and enjoy the winter more. If your blahs are on going or severe, get help. It could be something much more then the blahs, it could be Seasonal Affective Disorder.

The Adventurous Spa

2008-10-07T11:35:00.002-06:00

One of the greatest pleasures of traveling is to visit a local spa to try the local treatments. Spas frequently feature treatments that reflect the region’s natural resources, and often will incorporate local beauty secrets into high end facials and body treatments. The goal of all of these spa trends is ultimately the same; to detoxify, rejuvenate, relax, improve skin texture, and of course beautify! But, as many of us spa lovers know, enjoying the unique processes of special spa treatments is equally important as the end result of glowing skin and relaxed muscles. The following spa treatments range from simply unconventional to intriguingly quirky. They truly make one question, how adventurous are you when it comes to beauty and therapeutic wellness?

When traveling to the Czech Republic, spa loving tourists flock to Chodovar brewery to indulge in their infamous herbal beer bath. Bathers soak for 20 minutes in a reinvigorating concoction of dark beer, mineral spring water, and a mixture of aromatic herbs. This luxurious bath comes with a free pint of Chodovar’s naturally brewed high quality beer!

If your next vacation takes you to Turkey, Malaysia, Japan, or Korea, your feet are in for a treat with a session at a Dr. Fish resort. Adventurous people in need of a pedicure remove their shoes and dip their tootsies into a tank full of Garra Rufa fish, also known as nibble fish. These tiny toothless fish feed on dead skin and calluses, giving feet an extremely effective (and painless) pedicure. The sensation of a Dr. Fish treatment is likened to a tingling machine.

In California, the trendy facial du jour comes straight from the sea in a protein rich caviar facial. This treatment boasts powerful antioxidants and ultra hydrating moisturizers that smooth fine lines, promote collagen production, and lift the skin. This facial’s power comes from the high mineral content naturally found in high quality caviar.

If you’re not planning a trip anytime soon, or you simple prefer a stay-cation instead of traveling, we have many special body treatments here at BODY. If you’d like to experience a locally derived treatment, try the Sedona Mud Bodywrap. This staff favorite will detoxify your entire body while reconnecting you to the healing properties of the Southwest.

- Keryn

Surviving the Holidays

2008-10-06T17:33:00.000-06:00

With the holidays coming it is easy to get wrapped up in shopping, traveling on top of our normally busy schedules. I want to remind everyone to stop and take a break. Just take a few minutes a day for yourself, whether you go for a walk, take a yoga class, or go get yourself a spa treatment. When we get stressed out the holidays are not as enjoyable and they are a time for celebration. There is no need to drive yourself crazy. There is no such thing as a perfect holiday. But we can always enjoy them more when we are calm and relaxed. So don't forget to take time for yourself!

Kendra

Sattvic Sleep

2008-10-02T12:07:00.001-06:00

A couple of nights ago, at 4am, I was woken up by my typically quiet dog, barking and growling into the night. Normally this wouldn’t bother me at all, but as I tried to fall back asleep, my mind began to move at lightening speed as I mentally went through every task I had planned for the day ahead of me. Ironically, the following day I was dragging in everything that I did, and my eyes closed at any chance they got.

Determined to prevent this from happening again, I did a little of detective work. I changed my sheets, fluffed my pillows, stayed away from caffeine & sugar all day long, and ate an early dinner. Suspecting it was exercise that my body & mind needed, I took a long uphill walk with my dog and then enjoyed a hot shower.

And then I got serious. I reopened a book I read a few years ago – Light on Life by B.K.S. Iyengar. The premise of this book is that health is earned specifically through sweat. Light on Life frequently elaborates upon the fact that yoga improves anatomical health equally as it helps psychological health. This is because the mind and body are essentially one, which simply must be aligned through yoga and mediation. Iyengar writes a long passage about sleep, and how it is time of renewal in sattvic sleep. This certainly was not the type of sleep I had the night before, and I was reminded that I could not pinpoint whether my restless sleep was a problem with my body or mind, because it was both.

Unfortunately, we all have experienced a night of restless sleep. Next time you experience one, I strongly recommend the Halasana Asana (Plough Pose) preceded by Salamba Sarvangasana. It really has given me a good night’s sleep. This pose calms the nerves, relieves tension in the neck and upper back, improves mental poise and mood, benefits the thyroid, and, of course, is a natural sleep aid. I only wish I had thought of it sooner!

1. Spread a folded blanket on the floor. Lie flat on your back with both legs and feet touching each other. Keep your palms facing the floor.

2. Exhale and bend knees over the chest. Press hands down on the floor and, with a swing, raise waist and hips.

3. Support hips with the hands and lift the trunk.

4. Raise hips and thighs further, supporting them with the back of your hands. From the shoulders to the knees, the body should be perpendicular to the floor.

5. Straighten legs towards the ceiling.

6. Stay in this position for two-three minutes. Gradually increase the duration to about seven-eight minutes.

7. Exhale. Bend the knees and gradually slide down buttocks and back. Release hands from the back and extend legs on the floor.

8. While exhaling, lower your legs over the head, one by one.

9. Inhale, then exhale, extending your legs over the head without bending them at the knees. Place toes on the floor.

10. Stretch arms on the floor in the direction opposite to the legs.

11. Interlock fingers and turn the wrists, so that thumbs rest on the floor. Tighten arms at the elbows. Extend them away from the shoulders. Also extend palms along with the fingers.

12. Stay in this position for about five minutes, breathing normally. Increase the duration gradually to about 15 minutes.

13. To come out of the posture, bend the legs, take the buttocks back, and slowly slide down, keeping palms alongside hips.

Wishing you sattvic sleep,

- Keryn

Throat Singers

2008-09-29T14:16:00.000-06:00

CHIRGILCHIN MASTER THROAT SINGERS FROM TUVA
Saturday, October 4, 8 pm

CHIRGILCHIN is the cream of the crop of today's younger generation Tuvan throat singers and are the current champions of the Tuvan national throat singing competition.
This ancient tradition is kept alive (and kicking!) in just a few countries across Central Asia, south of Siberia. The best throat singers in the world come from Tuva, and the best throat singers in Tuva are the members of CHIRGILCHIN – and YOU will have the opportunity to experience them live in Santa Fe.
The three male singers and instrumentalists of this group are masters of their trade.
In throat singing, the singers create sounds from deep in the throat area which range from a lower, medium to a higher range. At times, one singer can create about 3 different sounds simultaneously with just one voice. While listening to a melodic tune, one can hear whistling tunes on top.
This art incorporates the culture and daily live of Tuvans. The Throat Singers will bring to life horses, rivers, wind blowing, the Stepps and other parts of their lives.
CHIRGILCHIN will not only use their voices but will also play traditional instruments. One of the members is a master instrument maker as well.

Let yourself be transported to the Tuvan Stepps through this live performance of these masters. A very special treat!!!

Kendra

Welcoming the Autumnal Equinox

2008-09-25T12:49:00.001-06:00

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."
- Albert Camus

Monday, September 22, marked the Autumnal equinox on the solar calendar. I have always thought of this day simply as the beginning of fall and the end of summer's festivities, but technically it refers to the exact time when the sun is directly above the Earth's equator. What does this mean for all of us in Santa Fe? Even more amazing sunsets! When the sun is in this position, the atmosphere refracts light; so, even when the upper limb of the Sun is below the horizon, its rays reach over the horizon to the ground.

This time of year is considered special in may of the world's cultures, and in many cases, is thought of as a time to move inward and begin to focus on introspection. But between the incredible fall sunsets and the colorful autumn leaves, I'm going to try to squeeze in a few more outdoor adventures to enjoy this extraordinary seasonal change before focusing on my inward journey. Below are a few fall festivals from around the world. How have you been celebrating the equinox?

Chuseok (Korea) - This 3 day celebration of good harvest entails visiting ones ancestral hometown to share a feast of traditional Korean food. Harvest crops are attributed to the blessing of ancestors and a variety of folk games are played.

Mabon (Paganism) - Celebrated on the Autumnal equinox, this pagan holiday is celebrated with a feast, similar to Thanksgiving. This is most likely of Welsh origin.

Mehregan (Zorastrian Iran) – This autumn festival is celebrated in honor of the divinity Mithra, who represents friendship, relationships, affection and love. Festivities include wearing new clothes and setting an elaborate, colorful table decorated with sweets, flowers, herbs, pomegranates, rose water, silver coins and marjoram. After a lunch feast, handfuls of wild marjoram, lotus and sugar plum seeds are thrown over each others heads while they embrace one another.

Sukkot (Hebrew) - During this seven day holiday, Jewish people build a temporary structure in which to eat their meals, entertain guests, relax, and even sleep. This holiday is intended to reflect God's benevolence in providing for all the Jews' needs in the desert.

- Keryn

A Commmunity of Eco

2008-09-17T09:20:00.000-06:00

"Be gentle with the earth."- Dalai Lama

We all need our reminders. Some days we forget how fragile the earth is and how the little things that we do can make a drastic impact. I have to remind myself periodically not to through the can in the waste basket, but put it aside for recycling or do not through out paper. We can all have our days where we forget. Earth Day can not be the only day that we are reminded. Constant reminders will help everyone make better and healthier choices in their lives. Just remember this quote by the dali lama, maybe write it on a post it note and place it around your house and office to help everyone remember. - Kendra

Green Toys for Little Bodies

2008-09-11T12:38:00.001-06:00

Parents have always wanted the best for their children, but today's generation of moms and dads are even more fastidious about how their little ones are being raised. The green movement has brought a new set of ideals into the mainstream, which, in a sense, is going back to the basics. From organic baby food to fair trade toys, parents have a lot of options in the path towards going green with kids.

Today's hot toys are not only fun and cute, but they are also made with organic materials from sustainable sources, and many times are handmade by companies that take big steps to invest in social responsibility. Plan Toys is a company that sets a perfect example of taking green ideals into action. These super cute toys are made from recycled rubberwood that is non chemically treated. The rubberwood is taken from trees that are no longer able to produce latex. Producers of latex usually burn the rubber wood at this point in a rubber tree's life cycle, but Plan Toys has found a way to re-purpose it into toys - a much happier destiny.

This adorable "Dancing Alligator" for toddlers is one of my favorite from Plan Toys. Not only is he green in more ways than one, he teaches several developmental lessons, such as eye-hand coordination, gross motor skills (such as running and walking while pulling), fine motor skills, creative development, imagination, and agility. Many of Plan Toys' products are meant to allow room for the child's imagination to be active, and are intended to be adapted into each individual's play-style.

Another completely organic toy company that deserves props is Miyim. For 30 years Miyim has been making completely organic plush toys. The materials all come from the finest raw cotton, and are colored with Miyim's own technology. Their adorable stuffed animals include a monkey, bear, bunny, elephant, and more. If I were a kid, this little guy would be on my wish list:

Baby George

If you want to come play with these toys, they live permanently in BODYKids with a variety of other toys from the same lines. BODY Boutique also offers a variety of organic toys for sale.

-Keryn

Men on the Mat

2008-09-09T08:58:00.000-06:00

For anyone who missed my article in the Sun Monthly in June. I thought I would pass this on, Yoga is not just for women.

Yoga began more than 5,000 years ago as a religious endeavor for men. Fast-forward 5,000 years, and the Westernized view of yoga practice is that it is primarily a women’s activity, whereas the repetitive, quick and heavy process of gym going is generally identified as male. But the benefits of yoga for both genders are being more widely recognized, and more and more men are seeing yoga in a new light.

Our society has taught us that men should be muscular and strong. The answer to this is spending hours pumping iron focused on isolated muscle groups (biceps, quads, abs). Over time, this practice promotes strength by the flexing of bulk muscles, but the fact is, without supplemental forms of exercise (swimming, cardiovascular activities, even daily walks), many muscle groups never develop. To address this issue and for many other reasons yoga is a perfect supplement to any exercise and health regimen.
The benefits of yoga are impressive. It improves organ and respiratory function, reduces anxiety and back pain, promotes weight loss, improves sleep and has antiaging ability. Yoga has also been used to treat hypertension, prostrate issues, high heart rate and asthma. Athletes are even turning to yoga to improve their performance and prevent injuries. Superstars include the likes of Boston Celtic Kevin Garnett and former Los Angeles Lakers top scorer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the National Basketball Association, as well as Major League Baseball’s Barry Bonds. Even entire teams, such as the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants in the National Football League, practice yoga together; the list goes on.
I spoke with a man who had focused on the Western version of strength up until seven years ago, when he found himself stressed out and realized that his usual release, working out at the gym, was not helping to reduce his anxiety level. His wife suggested he come to yoga with her, and he has been practicing ever since. What he found was that yoga was far more challenging than he had imagined. His upper shoulder muscles had been trained for years to lift and to contract, not to relax and expand, as yoga does for muscles in addition to strengthening them. He says that although he still can’t touch his toes, he has learned how to better handle stress, has become more aware of his body, has more energy, and, coupled with his gym routine, is in the best shape of his life. Most importantly, he attributes his his new understanding the most essential part of living — his breath — to yoga. This practice allows time for deep focus on breath, relaxation and quieting the mind.
Another man, a newcomer to yoga, was very surprised by his experience and results. Walking in for first time, he expected there to be an ongoing competition about who could bend farther or hold a pose longer. He found instead that the students were there to focus on themselves and that egos had been checked at the door. “In two months’ time, I found myself opened up to feelings and emotions of which I was previously unaware, and many things I was holding on to were loosened.” Physically, he has found himself standing straighter, with tighter abs and more overall strength. He has chosen to include yoga once a week as part of his lifestyle.
Finding the right teacher and the right style of yoga may be the key to opening up a new part of yourself and finding strength. It’s important to find a teacher with whom you are really comfortable and a type of class that suits your style. For example, in the early stage of learning yoga, you may not want to be surrounded by a bunch of limber women with their legs around their ears. If you are too nervous to go to a class, try starting with a beginner’s video or book, and start with a few poses a day. You can gradually build yourself up to a more advanced workout until you feel comfortable enough to join a class. Here in Santa Fe, we have no shortage of excellent yoga instructors leading classes at all levels, at any given hour of the day. Namaste.

Oh, the wonderful urge to shop!

2008-09-05T08:26:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!
I wanted to share about all the new clothes the boutique has received in the last week or so. Who knew that sustainable and organic fashion could be so beautiful! We have come along way from just yoga pants. I was talking with our buyer the other day and she was sharing some of her requirements to pick companies to buy from: First she prefers things made in the U.S; The items must be organic and fair trade, No sweatshop companies!; and everything must be produced humanely. Did you know that cashmere is almost always organic and humane? Cashmere wool naturally repeals bugs so they do not need to be dipped in chemicals and because of how it grows it has to be hand combed and not sheared off the lambs. No wonder why it is so expensive, but it is such a wonderful fabric. Here are a few of our new items. - Kendra

A happy new member of BODY

2008-08-29T14:40:00.000-06:00

Hi there,

My name is Keryn, and I'll be blogging along with Kendra from now on. I'm a fairly new addition to the BODY community, and I'm also new to Santa Fe! I recently moved from San Francisco, CA and I have been loving the change. Aside from the amazing natural beauty that surrounds the city, I have been most impressed by the warm sense of community in Santa Fe - especially here at BODY! Whether it is in yoga class, at lunch in the cafe, or at an event, I get a wonderful sense of balance when people come together peacefully. Good energy truly is contagious! What do you love most about the community here at BODY?

For me, the following quote comes to mind -

"If we are peaceful, if we are happy, we can smile and blossom like a flower, and everyone in our family, our entire society, will benefit from our peace." Thich Nhat Hanh

Have a wonderful weekend!

Keryn

Dali Lama's toght for the day

2008-08-28T10:21:00.001-06:00

"Anger or hatred is like a fisherman's hook. It is very important for us to ensure we are not caught by it." - Dali Lama

Dali Lama

2008-08-28T10:21:00.000-06:00

"Anger or hatred is like a fisherman's hook. It is very important for us to ensure we are not caught by it." - Dali Lama

Make Life Beautiful Concert

2008-08-25T09:41:00.001-06:00

For anyone who missed it the concert was incredible. The Taiko drummer was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. Watching his face as he played, he had so much expression and emotion. It was as if he was using those drums to work through something, even though that is not true. It it years of training and studying an ancient Japanese Tradition that allows him to play as he does.
Yangjin Lamu a Tibetan singer, had the voice of an angel. Her story touching to say the least. She originally began her career beginning a major Pharmaceutical Company in Tibet, later selling it and donating all her money. Madi Sato a local Japanese-American sang songs from Ancient Japan, as well as mixing in a few of her more recents pieces. I hope them all the best in their future travels.

Faster then Stress

2008-08-22T08:36:00.000-06:00

Mach-S, the speed at which stress can't keep up, is simply forward motion. But it has to be self- propelled. Note that people in cars are still stressed.
Jef Mallett, Frazz, 08-26-05

I thought this was a great quote. It reminded me of an article I just wrote in the Sun Monthly about Exercise. It really is important to relieve stress. I am not sure if it matters in the slightest what form of exercise it is. Just anything to move faster then stress can keep up. Maybe I will skip a meeting today and go to Yoga!

Kendra

Do not get snared!

2008-08-19T09:25:00.000-06:00

"Anger or hatred is like a fisherman's hook. It is very important for us to ensure we are not caught by it." - Dali Lama

Taiko Drumming

2008-08-15T11:18:00.000-06:00

I really hope no one misses this event. This group of international artists are amazing. Yangjin Lamu is a pop star in Asia and this is her very first performance in the United States. Koji Nakamura can play 10 drums at once! Can you imagine being able to play well all those drums? It really will be a concert unlike any other that we have hosted or seen in Santa Fe. There is even Santa Fe's Poet and Musician, Madi Sato.
For those of you that do not know, Taiko Drumming is a Japanese Tradition that goes back centuries to music that was played in castles, courts, and warfare. Today there are four types of Taiko drumming that vary by the number, size, and method of playing.
Join us for this amazing performance at the James A. Little Theatre, Saturday, August 23 at 7:00 pm.

Kendra

A whole new body

2008-08-13T15:54:00.000-06:00

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
- Mahatma Gandhi

We wanted to let you know that there will be a lot of changes coming to BODY in the next 5 months. We really do want to apologize for any inconvenience that is causes anyone. Last week you might have noticed that the soul room was closed. It was repainted for a brighter feel with fully organic paint from Biopaint. We would also like to thank Joseph McQueen for helping us with all the work. BODY kids will open in September with twice the space and a fully sustainable environment. Next there will be some changes in the cafe, including a new coffee counter. Soon in the future there will be two new smaller yoga studios, a boutique expansion, and a new raw kitchen for many more culinary classes. All of the work will be done with organic and sustainable paints, wood, and products. We really want to bring the whole idea of organic and sustainable to life through out BODY.

To all the parents

2008-08-06T09:56:00.000-06:00

You asked for it and you are going to get it. BODY kids hours and space are expanding for all you parents out there. We are also adding more classes for the kids and family programming. We are reopening September 2 with a new sustainable and non-toxic space with cork flooring, natural paints, and new organic, sustainable and fair-trade toys, games, and activities. In addition, BODY Kids hours have expanded and we will be offering afterschool art and movement classes and family programming. You can finally take those few hours and relax in a studio class or massage treatment.
The hours will be:
MON-8:30-3
TUES-7:30—5:15P
WED-8:30-4P
THURS-7:30-4P
FRI: 8:30-4P
SAT-7:30-3:30P
SUN-8:30-1P

There is kids yoga Wednesday and more classes are in the works on Thursday and Friday afternoons. We have a mothering circle on Tuesdays and a children's development class on Monday.
And as a PS: We now take reservations for birthday or other parties in BODY Kids on Saturdays from 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm and Sundays from 1:30 - 3:00 pm & 3:30 - 5:00 pm call 505-986-1111 x 121 for more information.

Words to live by!

2008-07-25T10:43:00.000-06:00

Dance as though no one is watching
Love as though you've never been hurt
Sing as though no one can hear you
Live as though heaven is on earth.
Souza

There is nothing better then living your life in the moment. And these words express so beautifully exactly that.

The blessings of flxibility!

2008-07-22T12:22:00.000-06:00

Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape. ~Author Unknown

A true sentiment for life

2008-07-17T14:21:00.000-06:00

Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured. ~B.K.S. Iyengar

Somedays an hour in yoga can make all the difference between frustration and a smile. I hope everyone can take that time for themselves and go to yoga!

Just a thought for today

2008-07-15T15:51:00.001-06:00

Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly - Dali Lama

Restoring Calm

2008-07-10T11:37:00.000-06:00

We have a new instructor that began at BODY this week, Laurence Lisa Lebreton. She has taken over our beloved Gio's classes, Gentle, Restorative, children's, and Pre-Natal Yoga. It has been sometime since I have been to a class although my goal in at least once per week. But I made it today. It is always interesting taking a new instructors class for the first time. You never know what to expect because everyone has a different teaching style. It is almost like taking a different class altogether.
The class was wonderful for me. The hour and a half of restorative yoga went by too fast. I can already feel a shift. Spending so much time at a computer my body forgets what it means to stretch and move. While holding a pose, Laurence read poetry to us about being in the moment and breath. It was a nice reminder to relax and give myself those few hours a week to take class. And how often do you get some to read you poetry?

Kendra

Supercharge me!

2008-06-25T10:39:00.000-06:00

I was doing a little research on raw food and found the movie Supercharge me! 30 days raw. It was a play off Supersize me with Morgan Spurlock. The movie showed a women's transition from being an unhealthy vegetarian to raw food. It was interesting to see her change and it also made me a little more curious about raw food. It is really fascinating how raw food can change someones body in only 30 days. I think I might even try it myself for a week or two and see what happens. I let you know when I begin and what happens. Overall I do recommend watching the film, there are also short tv clips at the website.

Kendra

Santa Fe Reporter Block Party

2008-06-17T14:06:00.001-06:00

I meant to mention this earlier, but I guess I got carried away. Wednesday, June 18 from 5-9pm is the Santa Fe Reporter Block Party on Marcy Street. We have a table and will have free mini massages and some giveaways. The event is always fun and there are a lot of local businesses that join in, as well as music, and animal adoptions. Stop by and celebrate a little bit of summer with us.
I also wanted to mention that BODY kids is going to have a little remodel starting on Sunday. It will still be open, but moved. The front desk will show you where and it will also be FREE during the remodel. We are making BODY kids even more environmentally friendly with new paint, plaster, floors, and toys. The hours will be expanding soon for those of you who cannot make the morning times. Any suggestions on times that would be best?

Best,

Kendra

Going Green

2008-06-03T15:06:00.000-06:00

There is so much hype today about sustainability and going green, at times it may even seem overwhelming. We talk about it a lot here at BODY. I would love some feedback about what it means to everyone. What do you think about going Green and Sustainable? What makes sense and what does not? On top of trying to help the planet, we also want to educate people on what we are doing. Why buy organic jeans, rather then levi's? Why spend $80, when you could spend $40? I have spent a lot of time thinking about it myself and have received quite an education about it since I have been here. I am hoping to share what I have learned with everyone, but I will really love so feedback so I know where to begin.

Best,

Kendra

Quick Thanks

2008-05-29T10:35:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to thank everyone that donated and attended the Yoga In Schools Benefit. It was a great success! The class was incredibly fun with three different teachers. I have never taken a class with multiple teachers before and I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't. The energy was incredible. The first part of the class was as if with were in a Yoga In Schools classroom. Gio Minardi led the class with 4 children that were students of Yoga In Schools. They did an incredible job. We are still taking donations if anyone is interested.

Best,

Kendra

Join Me for Yoga In Schools!

2008-05-16T14:12:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone!
Happy friday! I want to invite everyone to our Yoga In Schools Benefit. I am so excited and I think it is such a great cause. We have three teachers from around Santa Fe, each teaching a section of the class. I think it is one of the first times that multiple yoga studios have worked together for a greater cause. All the money raised will go to Yoga In Schools program. It is just $10, seriously, how often can you take an hour and a half yoga class for $10! It is next Saturday, May 24 from 2:00 - 4:30 pm. Following the class there will be a little presentation of the Yoga In Schools movie, chai tea and cookies. We may even have a few special guests. If you love yoga then please join us to help get more yoga to the schools.
We are hoping to do more events like this so if you would like to get involved in the future please contact me or Barbara at the Santa Fe Community Yoga Center.

Best,

Kendra

Welcome to BODY's Blog

2008-05-06T12:12:00.000-06:00

Welcome everyone to BODY's blog. There are forever changes and new things happening at BODY, I thought the best way to keep everyone up to date is through blogging. I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to add your opinions and requests. Have you wondered where the door behind the front desk leads? I hide in an office behind those doors. I am BODY's Marketing Coordinator and I just wanted to introduce myself. I will be making a new posting once a week and occasionally I will bring in a special guest. I look forward to talking and hearing from everyone! If there are things you would like from BODY maybe we can make it happen. Thank you for being such dedicated customers, you are what have made BODY so successful over the last four years.

Best,

Kendra