A Whisper to a Scream

When people find out that I am in a yoga teacher training program the question I am most often asked is "What makes you want to teach yoga?" (followed by "Oh you must be very bendy?"). That's a big question. How do you tell someone you may not know very well how profoundly yoga has impacted your life without over sharing or scaring them with the amount of passion you have?

Eventually I found the most concise and neutral way to describe that.

"Yoga helps me stay mindful of the connection between by mind, body, soul and the universe. With that awareness I am able to take my cues from the Universe and it has made my life a lot easier. I want to share that with other people."

So what does that mean? It means my life is really a lot easier because of the awareness yoga awards me.When the universe has a suggestion for you it starts out with a whisper. If you don't hear it, it will raise it's voice until the point that it's getting your attention like a two-year-old stamping it's feet, red-faced and in tears.

I now see the subtle messages, I hear the whisper that the Universe is sending to me. I rarely make the same mistakes over and over again hoping to get different results, I used to do this all the time. The best part, the Universe's messages aren't always telling you what not to do. Yeah, sure you get the "You'll regret that 9pm Chai when you try to sleep tonight" but you also get some amazing encouragement.

I began reaching out to people on a whim, a whisper, and then I see the doors of mutually beneficial opportunity fly open. I became more daring, more willing to go outside my comfort zone and the rewards have been amazing.

Do you have to practice yoga to hear the Universe's whisper? I don't think so. It's what has worked best for me but I have had similar experiences in hiking, climbing, and cycling. Anything that brings movement, thought, and a level of meditation or awareness with the universal connection will work.

I would love to hear from people with similar experiences. Have you heard the Universe whisper? What did it say?

Champion's Cold Weather Gear

My training has always slowed down during the winter as generally I go indoors and hit the treadmill. While the fact that I keep up the cardio is good, the fact that it's mostly on the treadmill is bad. When it comes to running outdoors after a lot of time inside it's not always easy to keep myself motivated. If you stop on the treadmill you fall and it hurts. Outdoors it's much easier to cut the run short.

I decided this year would be different and I would keep training outdoors. I knew with the appropriate clothing I could easily run in the cold while staying comfortable but wasn't sure where to start. I got a hold of Champion and found out they have some great cold weather gear to keep me comfy.

With cold weather running and cycling clothing the priorities are minimal bulk, comfortable warmth (without being hot), and moisture-wicking. I was fortunate to try out two items that fit the bill. I have worn these for winter cycling, completing a 5K and snowshoeing. They're versatile and a great buy!

Double Dry® Ultimate Quarter-Zip Women's Top 
The first thing that surprised me about this top is how soft it is, it doesn't have a scratchy tag, and the seams are minimalistic (read: non-chafing). It is so comfy I have fallen asleep in it a few times. Functionally, it wicks moisture well while maintaining a low profile. The quarter-zip neck allows you to control the ventilation a bit and even when fully zipped it's comfortable. You don't feel like you're being strangled and the zipper is guarded by fabric, so no rubbing on your neck and chin. Of course my favorite feature is the thumbholes. I don't always run with gloves on so in winter I like extra long sleeves that shield my hands a bit. The thumbholes keep them in place. Another nice feature is bit of reflective element to the top. It's not an obnoxious design, just a smart addition in the right spots. 

Double Dry® Ultimate Women's Running Tights
I never thought I would be comfortable in running tights. I was pleasantly surprised by this pair. They're easy to get on thanks to a generous ankle zipper. They're a great length, a little long my short frame but didn't leave me with a ton of excess fabric. The waist tie is easy to use and conceals well. There is also a nice slim pocket with hidden exterior-access with a zipper. I never care for the interior pocket for keys, I always feel like any onlookers would think I was playing with my undies rather than trying to get my key out. While these tights are light weight and a thin, soft material they're also warm enough for winter sports.

I Love Wool Panties! aka My Review of PULSE Activewear

If you've been active in the outdoors for awhile you've probably heard that wool baselayers are the best. There are a lot of options for wool shirts and longjohns and that's a pretty easy idea to wrap your head around. Wool underwear? That's a whole other story. I have a hard time not imaging itchy wool near my ladybits and cringing. Luckily I am also a knitter and I know not all wool is created equal. If you're able to get your hands on delicious New Zealand merino wool then you are in for a treat. Luckily, that is exactly what PULSE Activewear is using.

Made with PrimaSoft, the underwear and socks available from PULSE Activewear stand out from other baselayer fabrics. The fabric is naturally very soft while providing excellent moisture-wicking and staying odor resistant. I was fortunate enough to try their V-Neck Sports Bra and Fitness Thong Panty for various activities and I am impressed. I wore the set running, cycling, during yoga, and snowshoeing. They kept me dry during the most vigorous activities and I felt comfortable the whole time. I will definitely bring these on my next camping trip. I feel 100% confident they will hold up for multi-day wear based on the fabric properties and design. I also put them through a few wash cycles and they held their shape beautifully and came out just as soft, if not softer than before, and wrinkle-free.

As far as the cut of the items I tested, they really worked for me. While they have a Fitness Brief Panty available for women I am a thong girl (yes I know: "LA LA LA Too Much Information"). However, when you're frequently wearing bike shorts and yoga pants the thong is your friend. The cut of the thong is generous while still serving as a low-profile garment. I really liked the V-Neck Sports Bra. It feels feminine while still maintaining some modesty. It is also great as a layer under more low cut items.

While I am not one of the men folk, I know most of my guy friends are boxer or boxerbrief types. I have heard it isn't easy to find these in wool but PULSE offers both as well as an undershirt for men. They also offer a year-round sock for men and women.

PULSE Activewear is a great way to upgrade your existing wardrobe or would make an awesome gift for a loved one, available at http://PULSEactivewear.com/.

Favorite Things: Goody Ouchless Comfort-Flex Barrettes

Have you ever had one of those weeks where nothing is going right? You know, the times where every mole hill feels like a mountain and trials you would normally handle with ease almost bring on 2-year-old style temper tantrums. Yep, we've all been there. It's funny how in those times of emotional wear we find comfort in the little things. In my most recent bout of inappropriate hardship I developed an even greater love for my new favorite barrettes.

Yes, for just under $4 I was able to turn that frown upside down. Did a barrette solve my problems or eliminate obstacles? No. However while practicing yoga it kept my hair back out of my face in a nice twist. Even through inversions and faster flows it stays in place, no fussing and adjusting. Then when it came time for savasana I didn't have to take it out! If you don't lie on the floor in Corpse pose often this may seem like a little thing but when you're able to just be there and breathe without dealing with the hair or barrettes that cause discomfort it is a really nice feeling.

Available at many grocers and drugstores these barrettes come in two sizes. The large is great for twists where all my hair is folded up. The small barrettes are wonderful for pulling half my hair back or twisting it up with the ends poking out. Not only are they great for yoga but for styling the post-bike helmet hair they're awesome. I have actually been able to wear them under my bike helmet as well. The design is so minimal it doesn't create pressure points or pain.

While I can't say the barrettes work miracles, give me greater clarity or anything else of huge magnitude I can say they give me just one less thing to worry about. On good days that's wonderful, on bad days that's even better.

But I....

I weigh too much. It's too embarrassing. I am too old. I just can't...

I have been thinking a lot about the excuses I hear and give when it comes to living an active life. While this blog post was moving around in my brain similar  thoughts were in the minds of two women I admire. The first post comes from Amy, an incredible woman and life coach. In her post "Excuses", she guides you on how to identify what types of excuses you're giving, how many are valid, and how to develop a strategy to get through the invalid excuses.

So I can hear the excuse for this now..."What if I don't do it right?" or "I don't believe I can motivate myself". Well then check out how Katie, at Adventure-Inspired Tales, used Amy's model and put it all out there. She's a brave girl, and I know you're brave enough to do it too. Confront yourself and your excuses!

If you need a little more motivation, check out these great stories of inspiration.

I can't do it alone

A few of these stories came courtesy of Michele Flamer's amazing, inspirational, emails and posts as the leader of the 30 Day Challenge on Facebook. So if your excuse is "I can't do it alone" check out the group and you will find safety and success in numbers!

I'm too big and too heavy

At 501 pounds Scott Cutshall was told he would die in six months. Click here to learn how he went from barely being able to move to biking as a lifestyle.

I'm too old

It's true once you reach a certain age you may no longer be eligible to be a professional athlete (though don't tell that to Mara Yamuchi who began her professional running career at 30). However age shouldn't and won't stop you from trying something new and having FUN! I love this piece on beginning kayaking after age 50. It has some great information on getting started that can be translated to other sports and activities.

I haven't done anything like this...it could be embarrassing.

Yes, when trying something new or pushing yourself to the next level you will be outside your comfort zone. You won't know everything and you will make mistakes. Some of them will be embarrassing mistakes but you're not alone and if you're able to laugh at yourself it can be character building. Check out these stories from Runner's World.

But I...I..I just can't

 If you really believe that watch this video. The amazing story of a man who runs for his son who can't.

Dirty Girls Need Love Too: Products That Pamper Active Gals

I like to get dirty, but I think you knew that. Between biking, climbing, hiking, and just playing outdoors I tend to be a little grubby a lot of the time. At the same time I like to take care of myself. I like soft skin and pretty shiny hair (even if it's windblown or I am rockin' the lovely helmet hair). Over the last few years I have found some great products for girls like me who are no stranger to being dirty but like to feel a little pretty too.

Lips

I love the lipgloss by "Yes to Carrots". It is shiny and soothing with just a hint of color. My favorite element is how easily it is applied. A lot of glosses are globby but this goes on smoothly. I love that is not tested on animals and 95% organic and Paraben and Carmine free. The only thing I would change is to add an SPF coverage.

Face

I don't like to wear a lot of make-up. Sure I own Foundation but that's really for special occasions. For my daily wear I opt for tinted moisturizer by "Kiss My Face". I have sensitive skin and most tinted moisturizers I have dried irritate my skin. The Kiss My Face pigment comes from minerals, not chemicals, and the product is oil and fragrance free. The mineral coverage also provides SPF 8 UVA/UVB protection.

Hands and Feet

My hands and feet always need a little extra love. They tend to be dry and when I added activities and the elements to that they just don't stand a chance. However I have found using Burt Bee's Thoroughly Therpeutic Honey and Bilberry Foot Creme does the trick. While designed for feet I love the results so much that I began using it on my hands as well. I have tried other products that work well but they are heavy and greasy. This moisturizer is light, absorbs quickly, and smells delicious.

Hair

I wash my hair every few days. I am prone to dry skin and also dry hair so shampooing frequently doesn't help. However, I am not a fan of that second or third day "Have you been in the wilderness too long?" look my hair takes on. So when I discovered "dry shampoo" I fell in love. The powder spray allows you to apply it right at the roots where hair may get a little oily and makes it easy to style. The transluscent formula has worked on my hair when it was dark brunette as well as blonde. While there are a lot of more expensive brands on the market I have found Batiste Dry Shampoo works just as well and is less expensive. I prefer the "Blush" scent but it also comes in "Tropical" and "Original".

The Crafty Cupcake Celebrates Earth Day

While a lot of people celebrate Earth Day by cleaning parks, planting trees, and other awesome outdoor activities we were faced with thunderstorms today. So I figured crafting with recycled materials would be a good way to celebrate indoors. I have been working on three projects and I would love to share them with you.

The first is a yoga mat bag made of from old Cargo pants. I came across this pattern at Vegetarian Frugal Housewife. I fell in love with the bag because it was simple yet features a pocket perfect for keys, phone, and a debit card or cash. While I didn't have any pants at home that fit the bill I found these pants at the thrift store. With the addition of a simple piece of pink webbing I have an awesome new Yoga Mat Bag and it took 40 minutes to make.

The next project was inspired by an awesome pair of leg warmers I saw last weekend at a yoga class. I may eventually knit a pair but for these I cut the sleeves from a sweater, made a casing for elastic using some interlock fabric, and added two inch elastic. The sleeve cuffs made the perfect bottom and they fit well. They will be great for early more yoga practice when it's still cold.

The next projects come from pieces of bike chain. My awesome bike tech asked if I wanted my old chain when I had some work done. I said "Yeah, I would love to make jewelry from it." He then looked at the chain and said "How about I do you one better. I will give you my leftover chain pieces and recycle this." Deal. So I have been making jewelry from the links and pieces. It takes a few special tools but I think it's worth it. So far I have made about six pairs of earring and a bracelet. I have a necklace in the works as well.

This has been an amazing way for me to recycle, be creative, and walk aways with some fun and unique items. The next time you're ready to throw something out or donate it, stop and think what it's second life might be.

For Yoga, for Cycling, for Climbing, for Living: PrAna's Erin Top and Bliss Capri Pants

Finding clothing that takes me easily from yoga to cycling to a casual dinner with friends is not easy. I need clothes that move with me while still flattering my figure and maintaining a certain level of modesty. I don't have the long lean body that you may think of when you think yogi/climber. Think less Cirque du Soleil and more Mary Lou Retton. I am short, muscular, and curvy. I am lucky to have found new wardrobe staples from PrAna that answer my needs.

An issue I come across when searching for tops is finding the right amount of support for the girls. Many brands design tops with adequate sports bras built in but they scoop too low thus don't work for yoga or anyone larger than a C cup. Another problem is finding a top that doesn't fall forward (yay everyone look at my tummy!!!) in inversion poses or fit so snug I feel like a wee little sausage in it. I love the PrAna Erin top because it addresses all these issues.

Made from 89% recycled polyester and 11% Spandex the Erin Top has superb moisture management so I never worry about a little perspiration from my bike ride. The built-in shelf bra is combined with a modest (yet not constricting) neckline. Coupled with a cute contrasting racer back style I have full support for the girls. I never worry about a wardrobe malfunction during inversions or a bumpy bike ride. Also, the stomach area of the top is perfect! It stays in place but it's not so snug that you can make out exactly where my belly button is.

The Bliss Capri Pantscompliment the Erin Top perfectly but have also become my go to pants for everything. I wear them to work, to the park, for hanging out with my fella, to going out to dinner. The length is perfect on my 5'2" frame to wear as an ankle length pant. For taller ladies this would be a true capri. The fabric is light weight but ready for climbing or other abrasive activities. The fabric also dries quickly. With the recent storms we've had in Colorado I have come to appreciate how important this is. The drawstring waist allows for a custom fit and stays where you put it (there's nothing worse than having to re-tie your pants all day). I also like the deep pockets, very convenient when you ride your bike everywhere.

I really can't say enough about how much I love these two items. After going through the wash about five times so far both have held their color and shape and no pilling! I plan on purchasing the Erin Top in multiple colors and probably a few pairs of the Bliss Capri Pants as well. After all, when you find a good thing, go with it!

Prelude: Failure to Plan is a Plan for Failure

I know from too many bad experiences that what they say is true, “Failure to plan is a plan for failure”. Whether it’s a job interview, a shopping trip, or beginning a new project it’s necessary to do your research and make a plan. So as I begin my new adventure of bicycle commuting I have been finding out what I need to know and how to be successful.

There are many reasons why I am choosing this endeavor but a few include reducing my impact on the environment and incorporating a new method of exercise into my regular routine. I am in relatively good shape; I do cardio 4 times a week, yoga 3-4 times a week, and try to climb a couple times a week if possible. My job is 8 miles from home which isn’t unbearable and most of the errands I need are within 2 miles. I have faith that I can do this and will be a better person, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

As a regular part of my blog I will be including updates over the next few weeks about my bike and its recent modifications, important information and resources for better bicycle commuting, my experiences (the good and the bad), and tips and trick I learn along the way.

I look forward to sharing this experience with you and welcome your suggestions and ideas.