I hope this email finds you in good health as we head into the summer months. It has been some time since we last connected, and I am delighted to reintroduce you to my monthly newsletter, Beyond the Mat with Donna Sarah.
These missives will deliver simple yoga practices and meditations you can incorporate on and off the mat, a behind-the-scenes look at my personal yoga and wellness practices, travel, and business, client spotlights, product recommendations, and useful resources. We'll explore practices and philosophies that nurture not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. Our journey will encompass holistic well-being, offering you the tools and wisdom to age gracefully, live sustainably, and maintain a healthy balance in life.
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In Today’s Edition
What does it mean to take yoga off the mat?
A yoga practice to welcome in your summer.
Today is a gift, that’s why they call it the present.
Want to elevate your daily life through the power of thankfulness? This is for you.
Off the Mat and Into the World
Yoga is more than a series of postures; it is a way of living. Taking your practice off the mat means embodying the principles of yoga in every aspect of your life.
I know what you’re thinking: Donna Sarah, I hear you, that sounds so “woo-woo” and vague. What does embodying yoga really mean?
Taking yoga off the mat and into your life could be as simple as practicing mindfulness while you eat, cultivating patience in your relationships, using deep breathing techniques in a stressful situation, relaxing and dropping your shoulders when you’re sitting at your desk, or finding balance in your work and personal life.
It is about bringing the calm, focus, and presence you find on the mat into the world around you.
On the Mat
To start the summer strong, I’ve put together a short tutorial to help you master the Warrior Pose, a powerful posture that enhances strength, stability, and focus.
Stand tall with your feet together and arms by your sides. Take a deep breath in, grounding yourself.
On an exhale, step your left foot back about 4 feet, turning your left foot out slightly. Your right foot should remain facing forward.
Align your right knee over your right ankle, ensuring your thigh is parallel to the ground. Your back leg should be strong and straight.
Inhale and lift your arms above your head, fingertips reaching toward the sky. Keep your shoulders relaxed and gaze forward.
Stay here for five deep breaths, feeling the strength and energy coursing through your body.
To release, straighten your front leg and step forward into Mountain Pose. Repeat on the other side.
Use this graphic for a quick reference once you've watched the tutorial.
Off the Mat
The Warrior Pose is all about the past, the present, and the future. We remember the things of the past and acknowledge the future will come, but we have to ground ourselves in the present moment to reflect back and look forward—the moment on the edge between now and now.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush. I encourage you to take a moment each day this month to pause, breathe, and center yourself. Whether it's through meditation, a brief yoga session, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea, these small practices can bring a profound sense of peace and presence.
Elevate Your Daily Life
Designed to help you elevate your daily life through the power of thankfulness, the Divine Gratitude journal is a harmonious blend of morning inspiration, evening reflections, and gratitude challenges that encourage self-reflection and foster a positive mindset. Divine Gratitude is not just a journal; it's a companion on your journey to a more fulfilling and appreciative life where every page is a stepping stone toward nurturing your heart and embracing gratitude—one day at a time.
As we embark on this renewed journey together, I am excited to share this space with you and support you in your quest for wellness, balance, aging gracefully, living for longevity, and continually pursuing joy—on and off the mat.
Warm Regards,
Donna Sarah Khan
Discover Inner Peace and Wellness with Donna Sarah
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