Gratitude and Grace

At the beginning of yoga class, we're often asked to set an intention or to send our practice where it needs to go. This is a practice I have extended to other parts of my life like climbing, hikes, bike rides, the activities that help make that connection between the body and soul easy to see.

Sometimes setting that intention is really easy. There may be an area of your life where you're struggling or a loved one in need so your intention is very clear. Other times it's not that easy. Maybe all is going well or it's just too messy to bring it to the mat. At those times I have always had a staple intention, simply to practice for those who can't. Move for those who can't. Be present for that period when others can't. This intention has served me well.

Recently, I began to think about that a bit more. Sending your practice out to an anonymous stranger who can't practice is a lot like praying for someone you've never met. I think that's something we've all done. Whether we've been sending good vibes out to our co-worker's sick daughter or keeping good thoughts for someone we heard about on the news, we all do this to some extent.

Chances are if most of us pray for a stranger in some way, well then a stranger has sent good energy our way. Have you felt that before? I have and it's pretty awesome. So now when I am not sure where to send my practice I still send it to those who can not practice but I also send it to every person who has ever prayed for me, those I know and those I will never meet.

So I invite you,  the next time you're on your mat or about to begin a hike, walk or ride to send it out to all those who have ever given you energy when you needed that extra bit of love, even if you've never met them. Be mindful, be thankful and be present for them.

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".

Gear and Cheer is around the corner

I have been climbing for about two years now. After my first course with the Women's Wilderness Institute I was hooked. I often wonder if I hadn't learned with their amazing instructors on a perfect day in Boulder Canyon, would I be climbing and drooling over gear today?

Hopefully the answer would be yes, but I know in my heart that something is just different about WWI. This amazing non-profit organization has really perfected the learning experience for women (and girls). They know how to speak to women of all ages, help them find their inner strength, and create an amazing environment that is so magical and rare.

That's why I am now a volunteer with WWI, focusing on the annual Gear and Cheer Silent and Live Auction. If you're in the Boulder/Denver area, mark April 23 on your calendar. The event is held at Rembrandt Yard in Boulder and will have amazing entertainment, wonderful auction items, and is a chance to mingle with other outdoor enthusiasts.

We're always looking for new volunteers and sponsors for the event. If you have time to give contact Lori Mathews, Volunteer Coordinator, at 303-938-9191. If you would like to contribute to the auction we're always looking for gear as well as unique items such as clothing, jewelry, or other goodies. It's a great way to generate publicity for your business as well as give back to a great cause.