tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78134335635703319962024-02-08T09:21:54.866-08:00The Yogic DietMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-42771745893779466492012-12-09T03:40:00.001-08:002012-12-09T03:52:20.680-08:00New Grooves<div class="MsoNormal">
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</style>I have recently begun a 15 month study of the Bhagavad Gita. A gita is a song and this gita is a dialogue between man and the divine on the battlefield of life.
The Bhagavad Gita is called the universal book of guidance
because even though it is a Hindu text, it has been studied by historians,
scientists, scholars, religious people, and laymen of all religions and cultures. The Gita is a book of guidance to help an ordinary man become
greater, stronger, and more self-realized.
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Bhagavad Gita can bring an inner
transformation in my life because I am refining my values and virtues through
the study process. When I focus my mind on virtues of fearlessness, purity of being, steadfastness in yoga and knowledge, giving, self-restraint, sacrifice, absence of slander, freedom from pride and so on, I can deepen my patience and peace and be closer to my own breath and to God. Scriptural study of all traditions is valuable. </span>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS 明朝"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Also, my business is called the Yogic
Diet and I am a life coach and a yoga teacher. I teach people about healthy
diet, positive lifestyle, and law of attraction thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am hoping to end my own personal battles with food and body issues as
well and I believe that I am getting much closer to doing that. May the
Gita give me courage, strength, and wisdom to quiet those old patterned samskaras, develop new positive grooves, and help my students let go of those shackles as well.</span></div>
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Some positive new grooves I'm working on: Nine months ago I stopped eating sugar realizing that it triggers me to eat too much. And recently, I let go of eating wheat and all flours seeing that they trigger me as well. Wow, what a difference that makes! I feel so blessed to be able to NOTICE how what I take in affects me and to take heed, to listen to my body's divine wisdom. My body is like, "Girl, sugar, wheat, and flour turn you into a crackhead. Just say no."<br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria;">Dancing on and on,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria;">Monique </span> </div>
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Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-50826403094252852352012-11-18T23:24:00.001-08:002012-12-09T03:01:21.048-08:00A Noble Undertaking"For fear of obstacles, low-spirited people do not begin anything at all. Ordinary people begin things but stop when the first difficulties arise. But the best of men, though repeatedly felled by adversities, do not abandon a noble undertaking." - Bhartrihari<br />
<br />
Eating a yogic diet is a noble undertaking. Eating a diet that is gentle on the digestive and nervous systems is critical for feeling highly energetic and being physically and emotional well. "Yogic" diet may sound so severe like one would have to live on air, carrots, and grasses, but that is not the truth. The truth is that too much animal protein, animal fat, sugar, wheat, and processed food are making people ill. A yogic diet is a move toward increasing water, herbal teas, fruits, dried fruits, vegetables, and plant protein like beans and nuts. A move like this could be a sensation and experience of heaven on earth. It's just a move, a shift.<br />
<br />
But changing what we eat is only half of the equation. We also have to change what we think. Is my life based around building values and examining my life's situations in order to bring a positive approach for change or am I wasting my time, distracting myself, and trying to escape? The problem is that when we escape by over-eating, drinking, overdosing on TV and facebook, or compulsively shopping, our problems do not go anywhere. In fact, our problems grow each time we don't face them. Yogic practices of meditation, contemplation, positive thinking, self study, hatha yoga, and eating a yogic diet can bring us back to the noble undertaking of building the values, character, integrity, and mental fortitude that we need to be victorious on the battlefield of life.<br />
<br />
We all want the same things: energy, health, vitality, beauty, radiance, abundance, patience, security, self-confidence, trust in the universe, and overflowing love. Yoga is a system that can take us toward these sacred goals. Reaching for these high energy qualities and steady practices is a very noble undertaking.<br />
<br />
<br />Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-56463308439766213022012-09-09T02:38:00.001-07:002012-09-09T02:42:28.876-07:00Shake It Until You Make ItWe weren't sent to the earth as a punishment.<br />
We are here to find and spread the light.<br />
And this the freedom we seek<br />
Is in this very moment now.<br />
<br />
If your life doesn't have deep creativity in it<br />
It's time to shake it loose<br />
Roll your neck around. Your face, arms, body shake it. Dance.<br />
Shake it until you make it and it's ok to break it!<br />
<br />
Find your light, your love, your clarity.<br />
Give it away in charity.<br />
And then people will cry at your funeral<br />
As a soul who touched so many.<br />
<br />
And her hand went onto my back heart chakra<br />
And I felt the comfort there. Support.<br />
And I knew that this is what we all need<br />
Light. Love. Laughter. Touch.<br />
<br />
The energy is sent in increments from the Divine<br />
When asked for. Begged for.<br />
Please help me God!<br />
All our prayers heard. Miracles are real.<br />
<br />
Jesus, Buddha, St. Francis,<br />
Shape-shifters, Stigmatas.<br />
The same soul is in you and me.<br />
You. Far wiser, vaster, and deeper than your burdens or beliefs.<br />
<br />
Namaste,<br />
MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-75576565418507635462012-05-14T01:45:00.000-07:002012-05-14T02:06:54.470-07:00My Worst MistakeI love and approve of myself. This is the teaching from Louise Hay that I have eaten and digested. I love and approve of myself. Finally, thank God. I love and approve of myself.<br />
<br />
My mind wants to lament over the rotting potato on the kitchen counter. The knotty, wrinkled, expired, fleshy potato. A missed opportunity. You, my little potato friend, could have been a contender. But no. Here you rot. Then I notice a little bit of life shooting and sprouting up toward the sun. A paradigm shift. You are actually victorious! Regardless of your aged look. You are still full of life and longing and on a great adventure. The lamenting turns to laughter. I actually do love and approve of myself! And I approve of you too little potato head! I rejoice in all of life. Sad and desperate at times, but beautiful and thriving as well. Stopping to judge and then relaxing into acceptance. I am ready. Ready to be molded and shaped by destiny. Thank God. The critical mind moving toward the compassionate heart.<br />
<br />
Yesterday I was thinking about what is the worst mistake I ever made? An answer popped up, then another and another. So, I went with the first. <br />
<br />
When I was in high school, I wrecked my mom's 280ZX and sustained painful injuries myself. Left largely alone to recuperate after. By myself. I hurt myself. Confused feelings. Mother issues. Unworthiness issues. Self-pitying issues. I ate. It was Halloween and I knocked out every single candy bar in the whole tray. I punished. Though, it felt like I was sucking on a pacifier. Pacifying my pain, loneliness, guilt, and sadness. <br />
<br />
Here we go again. Close to the doom...and then the light. So what? So what if I ate and ate for all those years. So what if my cheeks got chubby and my tummy ached. That was the past. My tummy feels good now, most of the time. And so what if I slip and make mistakes? So what if food can still be my favorite pacifier. I love and approve of myself.<br />
<br />Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-34680762529234863232012-05-08T01:08:00.003-07:002012-05-08T01:11:31.103-07:00Perfect BodyWhat is your idea of a perfect body? One of my yoga students said, "Jennifer Aniston!"<br />
<br />
Well, that's true...there's no denying it.
I get into comparing my body to others sometimes and to messages of the media of a perfect skinny, hipless beauty. When a friend told me about how liposuction finally solved her issue of big hips, I have to admit that I paused. Cogitate, cogitate, cogitate.<br />
<br />
But we are talking about a really "perfect" body. And, it seems, a perfect body would be a body that one felt very comfortable, happy, and easy being in. A body that isn't stiff, isn't tired, isn't overly heavy, isn't plagued with pain, suffering, or disease. A body that is relatively relaxed, fit, hydrated, and healthy. The bones, skin, muscles, internal organs, blood flow, and cellular regeneration all working as Nature intended.<br />
<br />
So do you have a perfect body?<br />
<br />
If not, try some of these:<br />
- Lots of fruits and vegetables<br />
- Lots of water and Herbal Teas<br />
- Beans, Nuts, Yogurt, Whole Grains, and other plant protein<br />
- Balanced blood sugar<br />
- Deep breathing<br />
- Regular Yoga<br />
- Relaxation Exercises<br />
- Meditation<br />
- Positive Thinking<br />
<br />
See if you can enjoy a heaven on earth experience right here in this body! <br />
<br />
Namaste,
MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-45939576529014932092012-04-29T01:49:00.002-07:002012-04-29T01:52:59.292-07:00Everything Happens for a ReasonEverything happens for a reason. Everything happens for the best. Everything happens for our own upliftment. This is a cornerstone teaching of yoga. But how can that be in a world where so much seems so wrong?
We know the facts: we are born, we learn and grow, we enjoy much and sometimes suffer much, we create worlds and destroy them, we experience life with others and much time alone, we watch as the world seems to fall a part at times and then as it all comes together such as after September 11th. Doors open and they close; people are cherished and hurt. We experience both health and disease. One day these bodies die.
The yogis say that the purpose of life is to know God and to serve. We experience karmic lessons to take us deeper and closer to this purpose. Sometimes these lessons are very painful. Pain can be a very effective tool for our learning. By facing the pain, our hearts can be transformed toward a more loving, giving, responsible, patient, selfless, and compassionate state. No one said it would be easy.
Can you see in your own life that everything did/does happen for a reason? Your life experiences helped to bring you closer to God, to your own healing, to your own heart, to the hearts of others, and to service. Or maybe for now you're a bit stuck in blame. Others, your parents, your spouse or children, your government, the media, your health, the democrats and/or the republicans, or the evil behavior of others have caused your troubles. We learn all that we need to in good time.
May our lessons be learned with grace, inner strength, and understanding.
Namaste,
MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-7165115646806653862012-01-09T23:10:00.000-08:002012-01-10T00:03:41.908-08:00Happy New Year 2012!Happy New Year 2012 to you.<br /><br />I hope your holidays were filled with blessings and love and that this new year holds great promise and happiness for you and your loved ones.<br /><br />I want to share with you an account of some of our blessings of 2011:<br /><br />1. We started our new year on a junk boat on a river near Hanoi, Vietnam. It was pretty amazing. However, January 2011 also surprised me with some health issue. Fortunately, I was able to heal with vitamin supplements, a more balanced diet, and positive thinking. Louise Hay says that the emotional root of anemia is a "yes, but" attitude, lack of joy, fear of life, and not feeling good enough. So, I repeated her affirmation, "It is safe for me to experience joy in every area of my life. I love life." I repeated this as a gardener sowing seed after seed into the fertile earth of my beliefs. Now, I am well.<br /><br />2. In February 2011, my yogi friend Tomasz and I held our first Yogic Diet Retreat in Bali. It was blessed, perfect, powerful, and delicious. Every participant experienced life changes...from the reduced size of their waistlines to the improved quality of their marriages and beyond. Our next retreat in Bali is April 9-14, 2012. We still have room for more and we really hope you can make it. A yoga retreat is much more than a vacation. It is a true turning point in your life. Check www.yogicdiet.com for details.<br /><br />3. During the rest of the spring, we had a beautiful Chinese themed birthday party for my daughter who turned seven. So many cherished friends helped make it fancy and special. My son turned ten and his whole class slept over on his birthday. It was a total blast. Our family also experienced so much love as we were bade farewell by our dear community in Indonesia.<br /><br />4. We traveled back to the US for the summer. We caught up with friends and family and also took a yoga family retreat together. This retreat has become one of the highlights of our summer. <br /><br />5. At the end of August, our family had a smooth move to Kuwait for my husband's job. It is a different world here in many ways. Camels, desert, ultra conservative clothing, the wild west highways, and an interesting first world veneer on a mostly third world country. And though it is natural to see, feel, and at times resist the differences, I believe our family has settled down now and that we will begin to feel more at ease and find more in common with the people here.<br /><br />I would love to hear back from you about some of YOUR 2011 blessings. I would even love to post them for all of those who follow the yogic diet posts to read. <br /><br />I believe that when we count our blessings, that we make more space in our lives for greater abundance. Again, we are shifting our focus from what we may not feel is right in our lives to what we do actually want. <br /><br />And what I want is for you to have a very happy, a very blessed, and a very soothing new year.<br /><br />Love,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-1293782450724898562011-12-04T23:18:00.000-08:002011-12-05T01:29:54.606-08:00Other People Are a Mirror of OurselvesThe following is a response to one of my clients about a situation in which a colleague hurt her feelings. She had asked him for some advice and he ended up helping her to feel really badly about herself. She reached out to me as she was still reeling from these feelings. This was my response.<br /><br />Hi Susan,<br />Thanks for reaching out. Remember that other people are sometimes a mirror of ourselves. If someone takes a strike at us from what seems like from out of nowhere, it is usually because something inside of us is feeling unworthy, unloved, and deserving to be beaten up a little. We feel small, insecure, or unhappy on some level and we draw others to affirm that we are indeed small and unworthy.<br /><br />I experienced a similar situation recently. It took me several days to get over it and I was so upset. Later, I realized that I was really asking for it (on a law of attraction level) because of the ways I was not in harmony with my life. <br /><br />I was missing my old life, community, and friends. I was hung up on the past and not ready to get out there and make more effort in the present. I was being comparative, critical, and closed.<br /><br />And now I am grateful for what happened as it propelled me to do better. It propelled me to get into harmony with my life. <br /><br />Pain can be a great motivator for change.<br /><br />And just like in your case, this kind of interaction helps you to assess your progress. Look, I'm fabulous Susan and I'm doing great with a, b, c, and d! I still need to work on e and f. For example, perhaps you should not ask someone for their advice randomly when you're feeling a bit low and unsure? If you do go seeking someone, make sure it's a person who really has your back like a trusted friend. <br /><br />And you can always do a session with me, for example. Anytime. <br /><br />Meditation practice SAVES us! Meditation quiets the mind and it so soothed me when I was feeling troubled. I highly recommend it. When I'm feeling low, it is the best tonic. When I'm happy, it propels me into deeper sweetness. Meditation can be the most powerful tool in a spiritual person's toolbox.<br /><br />I feel sure this whole episode will have a positive impact on you...just let it unfold. Sometimes when we grow, we have to endure the discomfort of shedding our old skin.<br /><br />On another note, the registration page for the Yogic Diet retreat in Bali is now up!!! And the dates are April 9-14, 2012. www.yogicdiet.com (This is for my other readers too! If you are reading this, consider yourself specifically invited to the retreat. Welcome!)<br /><br />I so hope you can make it! Let me know what questions you have and if it looks like this is still a possibility for you.<br /><br />So much love to you!<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-80658231328095976172011-11-03T03:44:00.000-07:002011-11-03T03:47:34.337-07:00MeditationAs a young child, I walked several blocks alone each Sunday to go to church. I went to my grandmother’s denomination, Church of Christ. Later, I ran into a Methodist group I liked and joined that denomination. I did become disillusioned with that group because of some of the things some people said and did and because I was entering my teenage rebellious years.<br /><br />My next big spiritual experience was when I studied abroad in Italy. Our professor was challenging religious doctrines and pushing us to think independently outside of our comfort zone and upbringing. I was also searching and seeking answers as I looked upon another and another Virgin and Jesus painting. I wrote in my journal at that time: “God doesn’t belong to any one faith. God belongs to everyone. God IS love.” <br /><br />Traveling in Amsterdam after that program, I had one of my first big spiritual experiences. I ran into a homeless man on the street who was selling poetry. Though I normally don’t linger around the homeless, he caught my attention. He told me that he had lived with monks in Tibet. He had very clear blue sparking eyes. He knew my whole life story and encouraged me to forgive some very specific things about my father. How he read my life, I had no idea. He told me that I would meet my spiritual teacher in Asia, probably Japan.<br /><br />After this experience, I had to wash my feet constantly. I mean constantly…in restaurant sinks and in fountains in Europe. I was having a cleansing that lasted for about two weeks. I later read that in India, the feet are the second heart. Something had awakened in me and was being kindled. I felt an inner shift.<br /><br />About three years after this experience, I met my spiritual teacher, a yogi from India, when I was teaching in China. I have been with my teacher for 15 years now and have been blessed with an abundance of spiritual experiences as well as personal transformation…though I still have a ways to go. <br /><br />I believe that one can really know and experience God by spending some time alone, quietly alone with God. Prayer, contemplation, self-inquiry, gratitude practice, scriptural study, yoga practice, and chanting can allow for this kind of sacred time. And meditation especially directly facilitates this kind of quality time. <br /><br />If you are keen to try a little meditation, just sit quietly after your prayer time. Breathe deeply. Then allow your mind to quiet and relax. Sit for 5-10 minutes to start with. You may find yourself getting filled up from the inside. You may find that you enter into a whole new kind of relationship with you know who. Blessings!Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-5712298926501391562011-10-11T00:52:00.000-07:002012-02-05T00:00:50.493-08:00Sound Dietary TipsAny form of dietary discipline will yield good results. Sticking to just about any program will help us feel inspired, strong, and powerful. It may also reduce the old waistline. Perhaps the drama comes into the story when we either don't stick to our well laid plans or we jump around from one program to another...low carb one week and low fat the next. By the third week, it's all carbs and all fats all the time. <br /><br />This is one reason why I believe and trust in ancient health programs. Dietary suggestions that have lasted for 5,000 years are no longer fads. They are most likely true for most people most of the time. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda are two ancient healing traditions that I've been exposed to. I've personally been powerful healed by Chinese medicinal cures twice and I've been following simple Ayurvedic lifestyle suggestions for long time. <br /><br />Some dietary tips from Ayurveda that have influenced the Yogic Diet program that I teach and the yogic lifestyle that I aim to live are:<br /><br />1. Have two glasses of warm water first thing in the morning before any other food, drink, or even teeth brushing. This is hydrating and moves the bowels. See, you really don't need coffee. <br /><br />2. Eat mostly fruits before noon. When I eat 4-5 servings of fruit before lunch, I always lose weight and feel way more energetic than if I eat grains. This is an Ayurvedic suggestion that I discovered last fall. And this is another way to ensure that I get my 5-7 servings of fruits, veggies, fiber, vitamins, and minerals each day.<br /><br />3. Eat the large meal of the day at lunch time. Hot basmati rice, beans, lentils, warm veggies, and a small salad...now that's what I call lunch!<br /><br />4. Take a 10 minute walk after each meal. This so aids in digestion and rids our bodies of that post meal sluggish feeling. <br /><br />5. Eat a light dinner of mostly cooked vegetables. <br /><br />Of course, even more important than the food that we eat are the thoughts that we think. Our good health, happiness, weight, beauty, and energy levels are highly determined by our thoughts. Therefore, practices such as silent meditation and thinking about positive outcomes are central to ancient medicines and to the yogic diet program as well.Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-33171150743716782222011-10-02T03:43:00.000-07:002011-10-02T04:10:06.397-07:00Must Do YogaWe have recently relocated from Indonesia to Kuwait. And it looks like this will be a great assignment for our family. Life will be the same, yet different here.<br /><br />I am also the same and different here. In some ways, I feel like I left some luggage/baggage in Indonesia that I no longer need. For example, in Indonesia I was always on a bit of a diet. I was thinking about cutting carbs and I wouldn't hardly eat rice. But you can be sure that I got my carbs in other ways...because the body must have balance at the end of the day. You know it's true.<br /><br />Here in Kuwait, I am eating basmati rice every day with my legumes, yogurt, and veggies. I have a bit of raw sugar and whole milk in my chai too. I am no longer on a "diet" and I feel great, look fine, and have lots of energy. I am not gaining weight and I feel very balanced.<br /><br />I am also the same in this new location. I must do yoga. I experimented with morning exercise classes with my lovely new neighbors and friends and I found myself so off balance! The cardio and intense exercise felt great at the time (like a cup of strong coffee). However, my mind was more agitated and my energy would crash in the afternoons.<br /><br />When I stay home to do my yoga practice, I feel light, energized, positive, focused, peaceful, clear, and basically happy and pleasant to be around.<br /><br />Also, at a certain age, pounding and pounding takes its toll on the lower back and knees. Thank God for yoga! I feel so blessed to have this practice.<br /><br />May your own practices grow and deepen. May they support you through the ups and downs and changes of life. Some practices of the Yogic Diet are: moderate exercise, good nutrition, positive thinking, prayer, study, service, and meditation.<br /><br />Love and Blessings,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-63347718504298142082011-06-22T12:14:00.000-07:002011-06-22T12:38:06.266-07:00I Believe in CookingIn a world where convenience and quickness is key, there is still a place for cooking. So much of our human culture revolves around family and food. The two are closley related and have given birth to the cuisines and colorful cultures that we cherish and celebrate.<br /><br />Cooking is a necessity, an art, and a spiritual practice. Our families need real whole foods. We need relaxed, healthy, easily digestible meals. We need to cook and eat food as a therapeutic way to deal with the half-ass-ness of mainstreeam values. We need to cook to heal our bodies, minds, and spirits.<br /><br />However, fast food, cold food, snack food, and convenience packaged food are making up so many of our meals. Of course, eating this way comes with lots of sugar, salt, fat, additives, coloring, and chemicals. So there are health issues associated with these foods as well, such as obesity.<br /><br />I grew up around cooking and my children are growing up around cooking. <br /><br />May we cook for our families, friends, and for ourselves. May we teach our children to cook and eat fresh, healthy foods that are prepared with patience and love. May we strive to include cooking as part of our spiritual, yogic practices.<br /><br />Namaste,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-28582021137958045552011-05-16T19:34:00.000-07:002011-05-29T02:45:44.577-07:00Food and Body LegacyI had a fairly rough childhood. Although I was loved by many, I suffered through:<br />- Two parental divorces,<br />- Adults in my life with addiction issues,<br />- I grew up with mostly just my father,<br />- Loneliness. I stayed home from school a lot by myself due to terrible asthma and I was a latch key kid for many years - I took refuge in TV and the Frig.<br />- Instability and Insecurity about the future; I went to 11 different schools before high school, <br />- I had lots of mysterious stomachaches especially at night.<br /><br />These events led me to find comfort in food, to become an emotional eater, and to overeat. The adults in my life fed me lots of sugar, fried foods, mashed potatoes, and white bread which were considered part of a normal diet. As we now know, these high glycemic index, high carb foods increase cravings for <span style="font-style:italic;">more food</span>.<br /><br />From 12-25, things began to look up for me. I gained confidence, ambition, a great education, self-esteem, and personal successes. However, I still held onto food, body image, weight, self-esteem, health, self-worth, and insecurity issues that led me to engage in some self-destructive behavior and relationships. I remember standing at the fridge and eating handful after handful of raisin bran as fast as I could...not out of hunger, but as a way to stuff my fears. A way to pacify my anxiety. I ate until I was stuffed and numb. <br /><br />Many experiences have contributed to my healing and I continue to optimize my capacity heal and be healed to this day. My 15 years of yoga practice has been the most dramatic and sustaining catalyst for change, growth, healing, and happiness. <br /><br />My practice includes:<br />- Yogic Diet - I eat a diet that balances blood sugar and is mostly plant based.<br />- Meditation - Quieting the mind reduces stress and stress eating; it also leads to lasting feelings of happiness and peace.<br />- Hatha Yoga - I practice yoga for an hour most days of the week and I walk.<br />- Self-acceptance - My weight fluctuates 5 pounds up and down; still I aim to love and accept myself just the way I am. <br />- Positive Thinking and Law of Attraction - Positive thinking takes practice! We have to learn to focus our minds on <span style="font-weight:bold;">what we do want</span> regardless of what our present circumstances may be. <br />- Prayer - I aim to be in a constant state of prayer and communication with God.<br /><br />What are your practices?<br /><br />The most important teaching that I have learned is that we are here To Serve. We need to take care of our issues, sort ourselves out, heal our bodies and make them strong, and release our addictions, mood swings, and negativities in order to be there for others. <br /><br />Hopefully, our practices make it easier for others to be around us...like spouses, kids, family members, neighbors, co-workers, friends, and so on. Then, if we can be a light in the world once in a while - what a bonus!<br /><br />Namaste and Keep Practicing!<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-37663867107675087052011-04-29T19:49:00.000-07:002011-04-29T20:36:52.717-07:00I am Willing to Take a Positive StepOne theme among my clients right now is discovering their willingness to keep taking a positive step forward to do something to help themselves feel good, contribute something, and curb bad habits. This discussion arose from looking at the three forms of energy: <br />Sattvic - pure, calm, peaceful energy, <br />Rajasic - excitable, over-stimulated, manic energy, <br />Tamasic - heavy, dull, grumpy, and lethargic energy. <br /><br />We were delving into how we all keep moving back and forth to these three states. Some of us spend more time in the Tamasic heavy and dull state. In this state, it's hard to pick oneself up off the sofa to do much of anything and especially to eat right, go run around the block, and be cheerful and ready to serve others. Others keep it Rajasic...lots of screen time, sound, caffeine, activities, conversation, overeating, lack of mindful eating, and go, go, go. Of course, spending lots of time in this state sends one directly to the Tamasic state once things quiet down.<br /><br />We all agreed that the Sattvic state is the most ideal place to spend most of our time. In this state, we take care of ourselves, keep our commitments, know our priorities, happily do spiritual practices and physical exercise, and take care of others with an good attitude. But how do we get there and stay there more of the time?<br /><br />Sometimes making plans, promises, rules, and commitments can backfire on us. So, a gentle approach can be to adopt the mantra, "I am Willing to Take Positive Step." It is also helpful to make a list of items that could be a positive step for you. Your list may include: exercises you enjoy, reaching a for a piece of fruit and savoring it mindfully as a snack, cleaning out a drawer, writing a thank you note, playing with your kids/pets, and sending your partner a loving text.<br /><br />One client mentioned that going on a long walk can be a daunting thought, but being willing to walk to the end of the street is more doable. So this aspect of knowing yourself and your areas of resistance is very helpful. <br /><br />For the next week, see if you be willing to take a positive step.<br /><br />Blessings,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-16417697716569702182011-04-04T01:18:00.000-07:002011-04-04T16:16:35.563-07:00How May I Serve?The other day, I had a miserable night's sleep which resulted in a not very pleasant morning mood. I wasn't really looking forward to the day. And then Ibu Ani arrived. Ibu Ani has been a part of my household for five years as a cook and housekeeper here in Indonesia. I'll be missing her when I go! Anyhow, I asked her if she ever has restless nights and she gave me an interesting reply. <br /><br />This lovely, devout, Muslim lady told me that when she can't sleep, she gets out of bed to pray for an extended period. Then she studies her scriptures for a while and goes back to sleep. She says it works every time. She told me quite clearly, "You know when you pray, you don't pray for yourself. You pray as an offering to God."<br /><br />Since I had been in a rather self-absorbed poor-sleepless-and-tired me mode, this exchange with Ibu made an impact on me. I don't think I would have gone to do my morning prayers/chanting/hatha yoga practices had I not talked to her. Sometimes God speaks to us through each other. <br /><br />So, as my paradigm for the day was shifting, I went to do my practices as an OFFERING. I wasn't doing them to feel better. I ended up having a very clear intention that week that I was living and giving in service to my maker, my body, my family, and my community with all of my actions. I had a wonderful week!<br /><br />The impact of this small encounter lingers on. Sometimes when I don't really feel like doing something positive, helpful, generous, or productive, I'm trying to remember Ibu Ani. I'm trying to remember the phrase that Dr. Wayne Dyer lives by, "How may I serve?" I am trying to remember that the purpose of my life (according to yoga philosophy) is to aim to know God and to serve others. Basically, the purpose is to live in that open handed state of offering...no matter how we feel. <br /><br />It is not always easy to do, but I suppose the purpose of life isn't supposed to be easy.<br /><br />Namaste,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-58301542990185062202011-03-17T22:58:00.000-07:002011-03-17T23:07:31.592-07:00The Queen of HappyI wanted to share with you some feedback from a participant of the Yogic Diet 2011 retreat in Bali. Here is what she had to say:<br /><br />Changes from Retreat:<br />Diet:<br />The foods we ate during the retreat left me feeling so good that I wanted to continue that when I got home. I am much more aware of what I eat and how it makes me feel. I have had a couple cups of coffee and a little wine and some meat. The coffee I really enjoyed, the wine just made me feel like crap, and the meat was good - but left me feeling heavy. I have also had some desserts too. The best part about what has changed is that I am enjoying a treat now and then (coffee, ice cream, etc), but then I move on and don't look back. Before I would have felt bad about myself and just totally went overboard and eaten everything bad for me all the time. Now I am not in an ALL of NOTHING mentality. I am excited enough about the foods that my husband is attempting a detox like diet for 5 days like we did during the retreat. We are doing the best we can to follow the guidelines and remembering what we ate. I am excited for him!<br /> <br />Lifestyle: My rut was a pretty deep one and I am having to work hard to get out of it. I am better but find it easy to slip back in. I am making more time for myself and using my time more effectively. I am more aware that I waste a lot of time and I am not sure on what (hence the waste). I do know that I was not taking care of me before the retreat. Now I am concentrating on making time for me (quality time).<br /> <br />Yoga: So I am hooked on yoga. It makes me feel great. I gained a lot of confidence in myself during the retreat. I can do it on my own with a video or just audio. I am working on a schedule so I can do it more often. <br /> <br />Positive Thinking: Overall I am more positive. I am very aware of my self talk and how it has not been positive. When I catch myself with negative thoughts I shift them to a positive. <br /> <br />During the retreat I lost 3 pounds and I have continued to lose another 3 pounds since I got home. I am very excited about this because I have had some splurges with my eating and I have not found the right routine to do regular exercise. So going back to that All of Nothing idea..... I have gotten away from that. I am physically active (but not as much as my goal is) and happy that I have done something. I am not beating myself up over not getting it all done. This is a big one for me.<br /> <br />Aspects in my life that have been influenced:<br />Diet - I am more aware of how foods affect me.<br />Body image - I look good. I am not seeing all the trouble spots I used to.<br />Exercise - I am more active.<br />Yoga - I want to do more and I have more confidence in my abilities.<br />Relationships - I am more calm with my children; I am using my law of attraction notes and it seems to be helping.<br />Meditation - I enjoy it, but must make more time for it! Miss it.<br /> <br />Insights:<br />From Tomasz - Seriously would be "NO DRAMA." He also taught me that I CAN do yoga!<br />From Monique - I can obtain what I am wanting and the law of attraction does work. I am an awesome person!<br /> <br />Thank you so much for this opportunity.<br />The Queen of HappyMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-71798433450172889732011-03-08T01:08:00.000-08:002011-03-08T01:55:59.028-08:00Our RetreatOur first Yogic Diet retreat was recently held in the lush and surprisingly breezy, cool mountains of Bali, Indonesia. Our group of 14 met at dinner and then wrapped ourselves in sarongs to prepare for a blessing from a Balinese Hindu priest. Every aspect of life is ritualistically blessed in Bali and each of us, carrying our own intentions for positive change, were ready to receive. We sat on the ground on this full moon night and held incense sticks while the aged priest chanted. When he finished, we sipped three spoons of holy water from our palms to bring the blessing within. The retreat had begun auspiciously.<br /><br />This auspiciousness continued as each conversation seemed blessed. Each sharing from the teachers Monique and Tomasz, from Richard our Australian Bali mountain man, and from the participants about yoga, diet, health, life, relationships, challenges, and more entered our bodies, minds, and spirits. Each yoga session took us deeper into our strong bodies and higher into our big hearts. Each coaching session was a peeling back of layers as we unwrapped the golden nugget that we really do create our own realities and all it takes is a new thought to create a new reality. Each trek through the jungle or rice paddy encouraged us to remember that abundance in nature really is our birthright if we can just be in harmony with her and strive to take better care of her. <br /><br />And oh my gosh, the food! Most people on the retreat had never taken a break from caffeine, alcohol, meat, processed food, white flour, and sugar like that. Some were worried about how they would handle such a detox. But the yummy, colorful, delicious, Balinese vegetable laden dishes kept appearing to satisfy our appetites and the ginger-lime-honey teas and fruits kept appearing to quench our thirsts. The food was amazing and especially cooked for us with love. And even though I eat a similar diet at home...I feel a longing for the food we had at the retreat. It was good and it somehow fed the soul. <br /><br />So, the retreat was a great success! People who wanted to lose weight did (from 2-8 lbs). People who wanted to feel happier did and seemed to feel more hope for their futures. People who wanted to have fun and do yoga did! Tomasz rocked it as always and twice a day! And each time one of the yogis walked up the steps to the open air yoga room to surrender to the ritual of practice...he/she was a hero. <br /><br />Namaste,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-8651201496289840622011-02-09T06:13:00.000-08:002011-02-09T06:59:31.089-08:00Thank God I Got The FluLast week, I had the flu. I had not been sick in a long time...not even a sniffle. But somehow I knew that when my housekeeper starting sneezing around the house that I was going to get this one. Never mind that this year I had the second flu shot that I've ever taken in my life. I knew I was going to get it. <br /><br />Then it came...the sneezing, fever, body aches, painful sinus cavities, naps, moaning, etc. No fun, not happy. C'est la vie. However, on the 5th day when I was still napping for three hours in daylight, I decided to see a doctor. <br /><br />Fairly randomly, he asked me to go to the lab and do blood work. Half an hour later when the test results came back, he called me in and said that I had a problem, but the flu and the hurting nasal passages weren't it. He said my hemoglobin was down to 7 (12-16 is normal). And since we live in a developing country where the medical can be sketchy, he asked me to fly to Singapore the next day for further tests.<br /><br />Imagine my shock as I sat in the waiting room of an Oncologist's office in Singapore the next day. I was panicking and my husband didn't look too relaxed either. Anyhow, to make a long story short, I didn't have the C word. It seems that I have an iron deficiency anemia. This means that I've been running around with about half a tank of oxygen and didn't even really know it. But looking back, I do see some signs: the dizziness that I felt doing Sun Salutations, the shortness of breath I felt when running around the block, and my growing need for afternoon caffeine weren't just in my mind. <br /><br />Now why is this nutrition/healthy lifestyle person getting anemia? I believe that there are spiritual as well as physical reasons. On the physical side, I had not been really paying attention to eating particularly iron rich foods and my female cycle has gotten heavier over the last few years...a common reason for anemia. On the spiritual side, I can see that I've been pinching off the joy in a few areas of my life. And now I have a relatively small wake up call to make these right.<br /><br />I did have a big pity party for about five days after the diagnosis. I got mad that I physically need more rest and naps and I felt afraid. But I'm coming out of the fog. Tonight, I did my first yoga practice in two weeks with an attitude of sheer joy and delight. Yoga is amazing...what a life affirming practice.<br /><br />I TRUST that I will be well and that all will be well. I will listen to my body, keep up the iron, and smile, laugh, and give my love more often. May we all optimize our capacities to heal and be healed each and every day. ACHOO! God bless you.Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-4717248135272526532011-01-19T00:08:00.001-08:002011-01-20T06:22:01.046-08:00A Quiet MindRecently, a friend of mine starting meditating and she loves it. She says she looks forward to her meditation time every day. I understand her enthusiasm!<br /><br />One time I was at a yoga retreat where we engaged in many kinds of yoga practices. As you may know, most yoga practices and exercises are ultimately aimed at quieting our minds so that we can meditate. Well, we did lots of yoga and I had an interesting experience.<br /><br />As the chattering voices around me became silent, due to us all being engaged in yoga practice, I could hear my own chattering mind more clearly. Several things came up in my mind that I recognized that I wanted to work on. So this was a good thing as I was able to pray and meditate on these items and then kind of let them go. <br /><br />Then, my mind became more silent. This felt so good, peaceful, and refreshing. One yoga sutra says that when the space between our thoughts expands, the bliss inside of us grows. I could definitely feel that. <br /><br />However, what happened next was the most touching experience. I found that as my own mind/voice became quiet, I could hear an Inner voice more clearly. That voice said to go here and do that. That voice was in the flow. It was a deeper, more intuitive voice. That voice was inside me and I could hear it clearly since I was quiet.<br /><br />My mind is not nearly as quiet in my regular life as it is on retreat. However, just remembering that experience draws me back to my meditation mat and yoga practices again and again. Just a few moments of touching that silence space in meditation still infuses my day with sweetness and reminds me that I have access to that Inner voice. <br /><br />May you create the time and space for your spiritual practices and attain all the benefits of a quieted, trusting, peaceful mind.Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-84078190615974134042010-12-13T00:36:00.000-08:002010-12-13T01:11:59.053-08:00A Spiritual TrapFor the last several weeks, I have been adding more spiritual practices to my daily schedule. I've been getting up at 5 am to meditate or chant for an hour. It's been pretty good. I feel like I give some time to God right from the beginning of my day. This is a really good thing, right? <br /><br />Well, for me it was kind of not a really good thing and I just realized that I have been falling into a "spiritual" trap.<br /><br />You see, my husband leaves for work really early. Our routine for many years is that I make him a cup of tea and sometimes a sandwich to carry to work. Then we visit for a while as he gets ready to leave and gets mentally prepared for his day.<br /><br />For the last few weeks, he did not get his tea. He did not get his bread. He did not get a visit either as I have been engrossed in my "practices." I have managed to squeeze in a "Bye, I love you. Have a good day!" before the next line of text in my chanting book as he headed out of the door.<br /><br />I was having a nagging feeling lately that we are not as connected recently as we usually are. It has been a bit easier for us to feel grumpy with each other. And we haven't taken as many opportunities to visit and chat. The ironic thing is that one of my intentions for my practices is that I hope to be better in my roles of mother, wife, and teacher.<br /><br />But, yeah! Today I woke up to what has been happening! Thank goodness. As independent as my husband is, he does need some thoughtfulness and nurturing from me...especially as he sets off for his day. And I have time later in the day for practices. I do.<br /><br />So, I have a new practice. I've been really getting into making homemade Chai tea which is yummy, has lots of healing spices, and feels like heaven as it goes down the throat. So, I will wake up and do a 5 minute chant before I make delicious Chai tea for me and hubby to share. Of course, I'll make his sandwich too. But most importantly, I will make the time and space to be present for this very dear man that I love.<br /><br />Email me for an easy chai recipe if you're interested.Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-28942411143263756832010-11-06T19:10:00.000-07:002010-11-06T19:59:16.056-07:00Greater Yogic DietIn Thich Nhat Han's book, The Art of Power, he describes a greater yogic diet which is part of the Buddhist Fifth Mindfulness Training. He says:<br /><br />“Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful consumption, I am committed to cultivating good health, both physical and mental, for myself, my family, and my society, by practicing mindful eating, drinking, and consuming. I am committed to ingest only items that preserve peace, well-being, and joy in my body, in my consciousness, and in the collective body and consciousness of my family and society. I am determined not to use alcohol or any other intoxicant or to ingest foods or other items that contain toxins, such as certain TV programs, magazines, books, films, and conversations. I am aware that to damage my body or my consciousness with these poisons is to betray my ancestors, my parents, my society, and future generations. I shall work to transform violence, anger, and confusion in myself and in society by practicing a diet for myself and for society. I understand that a proper diet is crucial for self-transformation and for the transformation of society.” <br /><br />Is it really true that we can take in toxins from TV programs, media, and conversations?<br /><br />In yoga, all matter is composed of three kinds of energy: sattvic, rajasic, and tamasic. Sattvic evergy is pure and helps the mind be restful and at ease,rajasic energy is over-stimulating and over-exciting, and tamasic energy makes one feel tired, heavy, lethargic, and lazy. So, it makes sense that our TV programs and conversations can be classified in the same way.<br /><br />Noticing:<br />- Have noticed that if you watch too much TV or talk to others for many hours, that you feel tamasic, tired, and drained?<br />- Have you noticed that watching TV right before bedtime may lead to a rajasic, disturbed, uneasy sleep?<br />- Gossip may be entertaining and attractive to indulge in on the internet and in conversations, but how do you feel after? <br />- Do you see a link between violent TV shows and video games and violence and disrespectful behavior in society? How about in your own mind and behavior?<br />- How about our purchases? Is retail therapy just a quick fix high or are our purchases bringing us deeper levels of tranquility and contentment?<br /><br />On the other hand, if you are mindful and pursuing a greater yogic diet, you may be spending some time in prayer, meditation, positive thinking, exercising, scriptural study, charity work or selfless service, religious services, and other spiritual practices. You may see the link between these kinds of practices and sattvic energy that puts the mind at ease. <br /><br />So, everything in our life can be worthy of our contemplation and part of our yoga practice. <br /><br />May your greater yogic diet give you a strong, stable, and peaceful foundation for your life. And may all your yoga practices bear great fruit for you, your family, and your community.<br /><br />Namaste,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-66053979028888580152010-10-26T14:48:00.000-07:002010-10-27T02:18:22.074-07:00AHIMSA - Non-ViolencePatanjali is one of the great fathers of yoga. He codified the science of yoga and wrote the Yoga Sutras. These sutras explain how one can live the path of yoga in the world. One concept from these sutras is Ahimsa, which means non-violence. <br /><br />AHIMSA – Non-Violence<br /><br />“It is blasphemy to say that nonviolence can be practiced by individuals and never by nations, which are composed of individuals.” – M.K. Gandhi<br /><br />We are all able capable of violence. We have all been victims of violence, have committed acts of violence, and have witnessed many acts of violence. It is a part of being human. Violence is practiced in deed, word, and thought. In yoga, we do face and accept all of our parts and all of our feelings. However, violence does beget more violence. If we want to heal ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, our families, our friends, our communities, our rivers and streams, our nations, our world, and our Earth, we must learn and practice the ways of non-violence. <br /><br />In his book, Yoga for a World Out of Balance, Michael Stone says:<br />“When we react out of fear and hatred, we do not yet have a deep understanding of the situation. Our actions will only be a very quick and superficial way of responding to the state of affairs, and not much true benefit and healing will occur. Yet, if we wait and follow the process of calming our anger, looking deeply into the situation, and listening with a great will to understand the roots of suffering that are the cause of the violent actions, only then will we have sufficient insight to respond in such a way that healing and reconciliation can be realized for everyone involved.” p.78<br /><br />The process of Attracting Perfect Relationships with the Yogic Diet enables us to look and listen deeply so as to understand this suffering – of ourselves and our loved ones. When we understand the roots of suffering more deeply, and make a plan utilizing the Law of Attraction, we can begin to deepen our own relationship with non-violence and all of its healing ramifications in our lives.<br /><br />Contact Monique to find out more information on our Attracting Perfect Relationships classes.Monique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-55832105150858196532010-10-11T19:44:00.000-07:002010-10-11T20:29:45.225-07:00Pilgrimage to IndiaIn the year 2000, I went to my teacher's ashram in India. Imagine hours of meditation in deep silence with the accompaniment of trickles of monsoon rains, sipping hot, rich chai made from buffalo's milk, chanting in the early hours of the morning as fans whirled full blast overhead, delicious mangoes, nighttime fireflies, the smell of gardenias, sipping coconut water with straws, deep, strong prayers for transformation, and the outside village and its cows, women carrying bundles on their heads, colorfully decorated cars, dogs, Indian men nodding their heads, hot springs baths, and holy places.<br /><br />I had some miraculous experiences there. I had traveled on a several day journey from the States, but had no jet lag. I heard inner music playing when I was in deep meditation. My eyes lost their ability to see during one ecstatic chant. And more.<br /><br />My intention for the trip was to learn how to offer seva, or selfless service. The funny thing is that I given a cushy, easy seva, but then I was yanked out of that half an hour later and put into a seva to deep clean vacant bungalows filled with dirt, stains, spiders, other bugs, and so on. I scrubbed and scrubbed. I became very happy scrubbing and sometimes even showed up for dinner unknowingly wearing badges of dirt from a day's work. One of my friends was a bit worried about me. But I was into it, happy, and fine. I believe that this seva prepared me for motherhood and some of the other things that I've come to be able offer in the last ten years. <br /><br />Now ten years later, it is my great fortune to return to this ashram to deepen my sadhana,or spiritual practices. Soon, I'm going for a one week retreat that includes five days of silence. I feel excited and slightly nervous. And my intention this time is to shed light on some of the remaining dark corners of my life...some worries, fears, and old patterns that need to be released.<br /><br />Thank you for your blessings and support and I will be bringing you all with me. <br /><br />May we all deepen our capacities to heal and be healed!<br /><br />Blessings,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-90490156151936557222010-09-29T00:34:00.000-07:002010-10-05T00:10:42.392-07:00Day in the Life of the Yogic DietMany people have practices that they do to keep themselves fit, happy, and steady. Some people emphasize different areas of fitness over others. To be well rounded, happy, peaceful, healed, and whole we should aim for a balance of keeping ourselves mentally, physically, and spiritually fit. It is essentially the sum of these practices that I call "the Yogic Diet." Your yogic diet will be different from mine and from your teachers and friends. What are some of the practices of your yogic diet?<br /><br />Experiencing the "light" of yoga makes me tick. So, many of my practices revolve around lighting up what I feel needs to be regularly re-lit and re-freshed. <br /><br />1. First, I aim to LIGHT up whatever is going on in my mind. Mornings are best.<br />- I do about 15 minutes of spiritual practices to quiet my mind and then I affirm what I really want for myself and others in my life. If I'm worried about something like "Will I have enough participants to make a new class?" Them I affirm, "I feel successful and attract abundance into my life. My classes naturally attract an abundance of clients. I release all worry and concern."<br />- I also use this process to pray for others. If my parents or kids are struggling with something, then I affirm a positive way for it all to work out for them. <br />- I stay with it until I release every last worry. When I finish, I feel positive and happy...lit up.<br /><br />2. Time to LIGHT up the body<br />- I walk briskly to get my heart rate up, feel energized, and burn calories.<br />- Practicing hatha yoga helps to light up whatever feels tired or achy in the body, to open the energy flow, to stretch and strengthen my muscles, and to draw my senses within.<br />- I mostly eat a light diet that is filled with fruits and veggies, nuts, some dairy, lots of water, healthy added oils, and less snacks.<br /><br />3. Filling up with LIGHT<br />- Once I've cleared my mind and refreshed my body, I sit for meditation. This practice is my lifeline. Going within I have so much more to give out. I can focus more on "How are you?" rather than so much on "How about me?"<br /><br />Believe it or not, this set of practices has taken years to develop. And though these practices give me great happiness, a feeling of steadiness, and the ability to serve others with my heart, sometimes I can still go days without doing them. Then when I go back to them, the steadiness returns. I feel that when I can do them like a world-class athlete who practices 2 x 7 x 52 x 10 (2 times a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year - for 10 years), it'll be time for my PBS special! <br /><br />All my classes are essentially about learning to develop, practice, and deepen your own yogic diet. Contact me for more details on how to develop your yogic diet today. <br /><br />Love and Blessings,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7813433563570331996.post-58977067172659899332010-09-22T20:12:00.000-07:002010-09-23T00:23:28.745-07:00Keeping up the ResolutionsMy teacher once said that in this day and age it is easy to give up our resolutions when something becomes challenging...not very challenging, just challenging.<br /><br />What are some resolutions we may have made?<br />- Stop snacking between meals<br />- Give the kids/spouse/dog more attention<br />- Jog/Practice Yoga/Lift Weights X days per week<br />- Read scriptures<br />- Meditate daily<br />- Cut carbs<br />- See the good in everyone<br />- Reduce gossip<br />- Just say no to diet cokes<br />- Release the past and forgive everyone<br /><br />What are some challenges we may face in keeping them?<br />- Time<br />- Faith<br />- Fear<br />- Success<br />- Emotions<br />- Hormones<br />- Working, eating, sleeping, drinking, talking, doing too much<br />- Fatigue<br />- Carelessness<br />- Boredom<br /><br />So, how can we follow ever through? After he arrived in India in 1959, a Buddhist lama was asked, "How did you manage to escape from Tibet and cross the high and snowy Himalayas by foot?" He replied, "One step at a time." And so it is with our resolutions. <br /><br />Each time we take a step in the direction of fulfilling our resolutions, we add to the momentum of change, of fulfillment, of heightened self-esteem. And so what if we take a few steps back? We owe it to ourselves and our families to find our resolutions, dust them off, and begin anew. Doing so helps us live an inspired and inspiring life.<br /><br />Also, beginning over and over again and sticking with our resolutions does bring lasting change. One step at a time, we find ourselves more and more lit up from the inside and surrounded by abundance on the outside.<br /><br />May we all release the hold that we have on our obstacles and the hold that our obstacles have on us. May we feel successful and attract abundance into our lives.<br /><br />Namaste,<br />MoniqueMonique D. Toh, MAThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11556707417373014067noreply@blogger.com0