 Balance is an ever-shifting dance, both in yoga and in life. As parents, spouses, caregivers, and professionals, we juggle endless responsibilities, often feeling as though we’re teetering on the edge. Some days, balance comes easily—other days, it feels impossible.
This is just as true in our yoga practice. When we step onto our mats, our ability to hold a pose is influenced by everything from last night’s sleep to today’s stress levels. A tree pose that felt effortless yesterday might feel wobbly today. And that’s okay. If there’s one piece of wisdom to hold close, it’s this: approach every balance posture with a beginner’s mind. Let go of expectations and simply breathe. Be present with what is, rather than what you think should be. You can take your practice seriously without taking yourself too seriously. Balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about listening. Your wobbles and steadiness are reflections of your inner world, gentle reminders of where you are today. Instead of frustration, invite curiosity. Instead of self-judgment, welcome joy. Because balance, in the end, is not about never falling—it’s about how we rise, breathe, and laugh along the way. Jennifer Perry  Fourteen years ago, I built a near-infrared sauna in my closet. At the time, sauna therapy was a niche, almost a fringe practice, largely misunderstood and rarely discussed. Social media wasn’t flooded with wellness trends, and conversations around holistic therapies were far less mainstream. Looking back, I realize I was unknowingly part of a movement before it had a name—a biohacker in the making, testing and researching alternative therapies out of sheer curiosity and a life-long interest. In those days, there were no sleek sauna cabins readily available on platforms like Wayfair or Costco. Saunas were rare, especially near-infrared models. Yet, I was drawn to the promise of its healing power, and so began my journey—experimenting, learning, and committing to this sacred practice. Over the years, I explored every style: Finnish, electric, far-infrared, near-infrared, wood-burning, sweat lodges, and steam saunas. What struck me most was the profound impact sauna therapy had on my health. During the first decade of consistent use during the colder months —3-5 times weekly, 45 minutes per session—I never fell ill. Not a single winter cold, no flus, no infections. My body thrived in ways I didn’t fully comprehend at the time. Then, 2020 arrived. On January 28th, I contracted COVID-19—what I now jokingly call my “OG” COVID experience, the year my 10-year wellness streak came to an end. Recovery was hard, and in the months that followed, my lung capacity deteriorated alarmingly. Simple tasks like walking ten steps left me gasping for air. It was terrifying. I worked for several months with acupuncture and low level laser infusions, but that treatment wasn't working for this. So I turned back to what I knew, sauna therapy. Twice daily, 40-minute sessions in my homemade near-infrared sauna. Within ten days, something incredible happened—my breathing returned to normal. The relief and gratitude I felt in those moments are hard to put into words. I truly believe sauna therapy played a pivotal role in my recovery.  Today, as sauna culture continues to grow, with influencers, doctors, and researchers shedding light on its many benefits, I feel a deep sense of joy and validation. The innovations in sauna manufacturing reflect the growing interest in this ancient and sacred practice, and I’m thrilled to see so many people discovering its transformative potential. If you are new to this therapy, I encourage you to check out the large number of YouTube videos from cardiologists and medical doctors who discuss in depth the growing body of research. As my sister Kim always said, "be your own health advocate". Without further ado, here are 5 outstanding benefits of heat therapy by one of the most comprehensive researchers Dr. Jari Laukkanen. 1) Cardiovascular Health Dr. Jari Laukkanen, leading researcher in sauna therapy, has conducted extensive studies on its cardiovascular benefits. His 2015 study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, followed over 2,000 middle-aged men in Finland for two decades. The findings revealed that frequent sauna use (4–7 times per week) reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by up to 50% and sudden cardiac death by 63%, compared to those who used the sauna only once weekly. Sauna use was also linked to lower blood pressure and improved vascular function, making it a powerful tool for heart health. 2) Longevity and Overall Health Dr. Laukkanen’s research has also demonstrated that regular sauna bathing is associated with increased longevity. A 2018 study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that individuals who used saunas frequently were at a lower risk of all-cause mortality, suggesting that sauna therapy can play a role in extending lifespan and enhancing overall well-being. 3) Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, sauna therapy aids in muscle recovery and pain management. The heat promotes circulation and helps reduce inflammation, speeding up the recovery process for athletes and individuals with chronic pain. 4) Stress Reduction and Mental Health Dr. Laukkanen’s research has also explored the mental health benefits of sauna use. By decreasing cortisol levels and increasing endorphins, sauna sessions are shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and even lower the risk of developing depression, as highlighted in his studies. 5) Immune System and Chronic Conditions Sauna therapy has been shown to boost immunity by increasing white blood cell production, helping the body fight off infections. It’s also been beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis and respiratory diseases, offering natural relief and improved quality of life. In closing, the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jari Laukkanen and others highlights the incredible health benefits of sauna therapy, from improved cardiovascular function to enhanced mental well-being. Incorporating regular sauna sessions into your routine can be a transformative step toward better health and longevity. Sauna therapy is so much more than a wellness trend; it’s a time-honored method of healing that continues to evolve with modern science. My hope in sharing this story is to inspire others to explore its potential. May it bring you the same strength, resilience, and peace it has brought me. With Love, Jennifer Perry ***As Always... This story reflects my personal journey and experiences with sauna therapy. It is shared from the heart, with the hope that it might inspire or resonate with others. However, it is not intended to serve as medical advice. Every individual is unique, and what worked for me may not be suitable for everyone. If you are considering sauna therapy or any other wellness practice, I encourage you to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific needs. Listen to your body, trust your intuition, and seek expert guidance when exploring new methods of healing.  The studio's new solo sauna experience... a bit of an upgrade from my early years of heat therapy. As I have discovered throughout the years, relaxation while immersing yourself in a sauna experience is a sacred time and should be treated as such, for optimal healing.
 As we stand beneath the vast expanse of the universe, witnessing the celestial dance of the solar eclipse, we are reminded of the profound symbolism embedded within this natural phenomenon. Beyond its breathtaking spectacle, the solar eclipse serves as a powerful metaphor for personal transformation, illustrating the cyclical nature of life and the inherent process of growth through change.
In the midst of a solar eclipse, the radiant light of the sun is momentarily obscured by the shadow of the moon, casting a veil of darkness upon the earth. This temporary darkness represents the closure of one chapter, the dissolution of familiar patterns, and the inevitable endings that punctuate our journey through life. It is a moment of profound transition, where the old must make way for the new, and where the seeds of transformation are sown. In our own lives, we often encounter moments of eclipse-like darkness—times of uncertainty, loss, and upheaval. These periods can be unsettling, as they challenge us to confront the discomfort of change and the unknown. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of darkness that the seeds of growth are sown. Just as the eclipse marks the end of one phase and the beginning of another, so too do our personal eclipses herald the dawn of new possibilities and opportunities for self-discovery. The concept of "one door closing" resonates deeply with the symbolism of the eclipse. Just as the sun's light is momentarily obscured, so too may our own clarity and vision be clouded during times of transition. Yet, it is important to remember that behind every closed door lies the potential for new beginnings. Each ending paves the way for fresh opportunities, allowing us to step into the fullness of our being and embrace the next chapter of our journey. Moreover, the eclipse serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life—a perpetual ebb and flow of endings and beginnings, darkness, and light. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, so too do the rhythms of our own lives. By embracing this natural cycle of change, we can learn to navigate the transitions with grace and resilience, trusting in the inherent wisdom of the universe. In the darkness of the eclipse, there is also an invitation to turn inward and cultivate a deeper connection with ourselves. As the external world fades into shadow, we are called to illuminate the inner landscape of our hearts and minds. It is here, in the quiet depths of our being, that we discover the seeds of our own transformation—the hidden desires, passions, and truths that yearn to be expressed. Ultimately, the solar eclipse serves as a potent symbol of integration—the merging of darkness and light, endings and beginnings, loss and growth. It reminds us that without the darkness, there can be no light; without the loss, there can be no room for upward movement into ourselves. It is through embracing the entirety of our experience—the highs and lows, the endings and beginnings—that we can truly embody the fullness of our being and step into the radiant light of our own potential. So, as we bear witness to the celestial spectacle of the solar eclipse, let us also reflect on the profound metaphor it offers for our own journey of personal transformation. May we embrace the endings with gratitude, knowing that they pave the way for new beginnings. May we navigate the transitions with courage and resilience, trusting in the wisdom of the universe. And may we embrace the darkness as a catalyst for growth, knowing that within it lies the spark of our own transformation. With Love, Jennifer Perry  As Chiron journeys through the bold and assertive sign of Aries during April 2024, and a potent solar eclipse in Aries graces the skies on April 8th, all twelve zodiac signs are called to embark on a journey of profound healing, transformation, and renewal. This cosmic convergence invites us to confront our deepest wounds and insecurities, particularly those related to self-identity, assertiveness, and independence. Old patterns and beliefs that have held us back from embracing our true potential may resurface, urging us to confront them with courage and compassion. During this time, it's essential to cultivate self-awareness and mindfulness.
Pay attention to the messages and insights that arise from within, as they hold the keys to unlocking our inner strength and resilience. The solar eclipse in Aries amplifies the energy of new beginnings, urging us to set intentions for the future and embrace the unknown with courage and conviction. This celestial event offers us the opportunity to break free from limiting beliefs and step into our power with confidence. Seek support from trusted friends, mentors, or therapists who can offer guidance and encouragement during this transformative period. Remember, healing is a journey, and it's okay to take things one step at a time. As we navigate the Chiron in Aries transit and solar eclipse in Aries, trust in the process of transformation unfolding within and around you. Embrace vulnerability as a pathway to growth, knowing that through facing our wounds with courage and compassion, we can emerge stronger, wiser, and more empowered than ever before. Jennifer Perry, April 1, 2024   As we navigate through the mystical energies of the eclipse portal, it's essential to cultivate a space of tranquility and balance within ourselves. One powerful way to do this is by creating a sattvic time, a period of harmony and purity, to honor this celestial event and align with its transformative energies. Dress Light: Adorn yourself in light-colored attire to symbolize clarity and openness. Light hues such as white, pastels, or gentle blues can help you attune to the subtle vibrations of the eclipse. Eat Light or Fast: During this sacred time, consider nourishing your body with light, easy-to-digest foods or even fasting to purify your physical vessel. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbal teas to support your body's natural cleansing process. Take Quiet Time: Find moments of solitude and silence to connect with your inner self and the cosmic energies surrounding the eclipse. Whether it's through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting in contemplative stillness, allow yourself to be present and receptive to the divine whispers of the universe. Avoid Direct Gaze: In alignment with ancient traditions, refrain from looking directly at the eclipse to protect your eyes and honor the sacredness of this celestial phenomenon. Instead, observe indirectly through pinhole projectors or eclipse glasses to witness the awe-inspiring dance of light and shadow. Stay Grounded with Yoga: Ground your energy and center your being through the practice of yoga. Flow through gentle asanas, focusing on deep breathing and mindful movement to harmonize body, mind, and spirit. Let the rhythmic flow of your practice guide you into a state of inner peace and serenity. Embrace this eclipse portal as an opportunity for profound inner alchemy and spiritual renewal. By creating a sattvic time for yourself, you invite balance, clarity, and transformation into your life, allowing the eclipse energies to illuminate the path of your journey towards wholeness and enlightenment. Jennifer Perry, April 1, 2024   We started this year with an Uplift 2020 Challenge.
Uplift 2020 does not mean a 30-day challenge in and of itself. It was an offering to dive into your practice and into your heart. What are the synchronicities you developed on your mat that took you far beyond your mat? Maybe it was a connection with a new friend? Maybe it was an asana you thought you could never move into? Maybe it was a commitment you made to yourself to practice 3-4x a week? Maybe it was trying something completely new, and you took your first down dog with us during that challenge? Maybe it was just a time for you to bow your head a few times a week and focus on you? Maybe it was to be a part of something collectively? Without agenda, without an expectation. Whatever you decided for yourself at that time was exactly what it needed to be, but remember whatever that nudge was….it got you to unroll your mat, that inner motivation got you to say yes! Uplift 2020 has not ended. If anything, it has grown legs, it has grown a ring around the tree. It has grown a seed that you did not know was within you. Maybe it has grown a new skill. Maybe you have developed a passion that was non-existent before. Or maybe you rested, retreated, and observed, and in that you became the witness to your own thoughts and hence a greater discernment to all you watched and listened too. 2020 has brought light to many shadows, many blind spots within us and the collective. Growth is growth though, do not let the outer circumstances crush your spirit. Let it develop and nurture it. However, we approached this year in our own lives is our own personal choice. But I am here to give you a gentle healing reminder that We get to choose how we feel in every moment. We get to decide how we navigate the turbulence; we get to decide that. You get to decide. So, on the eve of virtual school or for those face to face with unending demands upon you, and to the unofficial end of summer; May we all choose to uplift the rest of 2020. May we all choose to look ahead and know that even as things change and shift, we can choose to uplift ourselves and those around us. We get to choose which attitude we show up with, nobody else. And if nobody has told you lately, let me be the first. You are appreciated, admired, and needed! Please give yourself some credit, a pat on the back a deep bow for all you have navigated, lived through, and lost. Give yourself the Love you deserve for showing up however you were able too the last 7 months. I honor you, the students, the teachers, the friends, family, colleagues, and community. We are all on this journey together and may we all continue to uplift 2020 because those legs you have grown are like the roots of a tree. And when the roots are strong, there is no reason to fear the wind. Much Love, Jen  I was reminded of a letter published through Elephant Journal that I wrote for my sons 6 years ago. The windy day took me back to the insight and intuition I began to develop during a time of deep inward reflection and self-imposed quarantine. It was instinctual and needed after one of the most traumatic events of my life. I worked a full time job that was averaging 50 hours a week not including significant and lengthy overnight travel. My initiated self-quarantine was intuitive, I did not participate in going out socially, dinner parties, group fitness or yoga classes or lengthy conversations with my friends and family.
I was at home (while not at work) going inward and doing a complete inward overhaul. I didn't watch TV, all of the financial "extras" were gone. I was now supporting myself and my two sons 100% financially, emotionally, and spiritually. After tucking in my sons every night at 8:00pm I would begin my journeying through many forms. One of which was meditation, thinking about one word "LOVE" and what exactly it meant to me. I did this process for several years. I dreamed, philosphized and began deep insightful conversations with my angels and guides. I became a healer on many levels as a result of healing myself. I surrounded my early mornings with Sattvic prayer and read books from the greats, from other healers and from spiritual masters. I began and ended my day in deep spiritual contemplation. I still do this. As a result I was given information from my late sister who guides me often in my life, she said: "my business would be closing" and "to get my affairs in order." She further said: "Save every penny, pay off my studios credit card and loan debt and prepare." She imparted this to me on a sunny August afternoon in 2019 while I mopped the studio room floors. I sobbed, I couldn't understand why I would be closing... at the time. I could only hear part of what she was telling me but I followed her guidance. I got my affairs in order the following 6 months. So I sit here today, knowing intuitively that my business will be okay, I will weather out the storm, and a new seed will unfold for me as I wait this out along with the rest of the planet. Except, I am not worried. I am not living in fear and I am not operating from a place of scarcity. I am sharing and moving at my own pace and from a place of healing, Love and intuition. And you can too. I have noticed my "mama bear" coming out recently in ways that have surprised me. Wanting to protect the masses from false information, judgment from the collective about which side they are on, propaganda across media platforms and many other hurtful ways I have witnessed, some subtle, some obvious. I have wanted to scream from the top of my lungs to everyone, stop what you are doing and GO WITHIN! Here they all are - all the answers, they are within you. They are not from facebook or twitter, they are not from your favorite news station, they are not from your neighbor or favorite healer or health care practitioner, they are unequivocally within you. They have always been. We don't need to sit on mountain tops or journey to the Himalayas to get the answers. We don't need every luxury on the planet to survive. We don't need air conditioning in our homes (and cars) for that matter to take away every ounce of discomfort we experience the moment it arises. We don't need the best plants and grass seed to make our homes beautiful while we wait this out. We don't need fancy vacations or mindless trips to our local "big box" stores to mask our unresolved pain, we don't need any of the superficial to make us feel better....Anymore. I humbly implore each and every one of you to stop. Stop the confusion, stop the scrolling, stop wanting to take away every ache and pain that arises and go within. Ask your body what it needs, it knows implicitly and when you hear the answer go deeper still. Don't stop there. Ask the next question and the next. Ask your higher self how to save your business and then take action. Ask yourself all the hard and painful questions and maybe just maybe the best solution and answers will feel like swift uplifting grace. The uncertainty is valid the waves of emotion can come fast and furious but so do the answers you seek, and they are roaring to come out. All of this will resolve itself, it is part of a bigger picture of global healing. The trees are talking to us, the wind is talking to us, the question is...will you go within to hear the answer from this brilliant source, you? The answers are always there and they are waiting for you to pause, lean into the discomfort and listen. Pema Chodron writes: "Nothing ever goes away until it teaches us what we need to know." With Love, Jennifer Link to the letter referenced at the beginning. https://www.elephantjournal.com/2014/07/letter-to-my-little-warriors-of-love-jennifer-perry/  1. Golden Milk, Prepare this simple Ayurvedic remedy in the evening.
Golden Milk Golden milk, called “haldi (turmeric) ka doodh (milk)” is an Ayurvedic drink and recipe used throughout Asia and India. It is essentially milk (dairy or plant-based) warmed with turmeric, a powerhouse spice with multiple documented health benefits. Golden milk aids sleep by soothing digestion, fights colds and flu, and lifts low moods. Researchers are cracking the code on why this simple drink is so effective. The turmeric, loaded with a phytochemical called “curcumin,” is the catalyst for golden milk benefits. Turmeric = Curcumin Research has confirmed that curcumin, the active component of turmeric, a common spice in Asian and Indian cuisines, supports health in multiple ways.
Golden Milk Recipe by Dr. Raj Ayurvedic Doctor 1 cup goat or cow milk (vegan option almond or oat milk) 1/2 cup water (boiled) 2 pinch saffron (omit if you don't have this available) 1/2 tsp cardamom 1/4 tsp cinnamon & nutmeg 1 tsp turmeric Pinch of pepper Place all ingredients in a tea kettle or pot and simmer for 5-7 minutes and enjoy. 2. Potato Starch What the heck is Potato Starch and how does it help me sleep? It’s special type of starch called resistant starch which provides unique and remarkable properties, improving your metabolism and blood sugar while optimizing your gut flora to promote weight loss. More importantly it does wonders for your sleep! Resistant starch is a kind of starch that is not digested in the small intestine, hence its name. Instead, your gut bacteria processes it, creating beneficial molecules that promote balanced blood sugar and healthy gut flora. In other words, when you eat resistant starch, it “resists” digestion and does not spike blood sugar or insulin. I have personally found this to be so effective that I use this every night before bed, 2 tablespoons mixed with 2 ounces of water. Don’t worry there is no flavor to it. 😊 To read more about this wonderful prebiotic click below drhyman.com/blog/2016/03/24/the-starch-that-makes-you-lean-and-healthy/ 3. Salt baths Salt baths are a wonderful way to wind down and soothe the nerves and muscles. I recommend just simple table salt or sea salt for your baths or any salt you have on hand. However you must put at least 6 cups in your bath, even more if you have it. The water should taste like the sea to get the physical and healing benefits from it. Add any essential oils you enjoy to your bath and spend 20 minutes allowing your body and mind unwind. Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 30 mins Total time: 35 mins Serves: 4-5 servings Ingredients 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1/4 cup shallots, minced 2 cups vegetable stock, unsalted 2 cups water 1/2 cup dry rose or white wine 1 cup cashews, soaked in boiling hot water for 1 hour 4 cups broccoli florets 2 cups english peas large handful of fresh oregano, de-stemmed & chopped roughly 1 teaspoon dried porcini mushroom, minced finely 1 teaspoon maple syrup 1 teaspoon coriander 2 teaspoons salt, + more to taste 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Instructions Heat a large soup pot on a low burner, adding the ghee or coconut oil when it's hot. Add the shallots and cook 3-5 minutes, until they become glassy and just start to brown, stirring frequently. Add the vegetable stock, water, wine, cashews, and broccoli florets and cook on low heat for 20 minutes. You want the broccoli to be fork-tender. Add the peas, oregano, porcini, maple syrup, and coriander. Cook 2 minutes more, then cut off the heat. Let cool 5 minutes before blending. Pour soup in a blender set on low to start. As the soup begins to blend and thicken, you can gradually blend on high. I suggest moving to the higher setting only when your soup is mostly blended. It just helps get a finer texture. Once the soup is creamy and uniform in texture, add the salt and pepper. Taste, add more according to your liking. Serve topped with swirls of your favorite yogurt Enjoy!  1. DETOXIFY - A hot yoga practice will help you flush out toxins through sweat. Take a break from the patio party's and get your sweat on!
2. STRETCH OUT & LIMBER UP - A hot yoga practice will improve your flexibility and mobility for all the outdoor activities you love (running, tennis, kickball, rowing biking....) improve your game and your endurance while decreasing your chance of injury! 3. H20 FOR THE ULTIMATE CLEANSE - Water is the magical elixer and with a hot yoga practice your body naturally craves more H20 throughout the day. 4. TONE UP - A hot yoga practice will help you develop healthy toned and strong muscles from your toes to your temples, feel good everywhere! 5. BREATHE - A hot yoga practice teaches you to take deeper and longer breathes. Improving our inner ability to face the world from a calm and centered foundation. 6. TREAT YOURSELF - A 60 minute hot yoga class is the ultimate self-care routine, take care of your radiant body, mind and soul and devote an hour just for you! 7. CHILL OUT - Summer is filled with activities and different routines especially if you're a parent, our studio environment is an uplifting, natural way to chill out and relax, try a yin meditation class and allow the energy to support and hold you so you can carry on with more joy and ease. 8. BE INSPIRED - The studio is filled with inspiring, friendly and welcoming faces, make a new friend and plan a yoga date or a post yoga brunch date! 9. KEEP UP YOUR REGULAR PRACTICE - The benefits of yoga are the same throughout the year, whatever the weather is like outside. Keep your practice steady and watch the benefits grow! 10. THE ULTIMATE MOOD ENHANCER - Yoga is the ultimate mood enhancer! Sweating, moving and breathing sends signals to your neuropathways that elevate and increase saratonin and dopamine naturally, it's the ultimate feel good elixer! |
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