Yoga with Essential Oils

July 25, 2018July 25, 2018 / dazeymayhem / 1 Comment

Incorporating essential oils into your yoga practice is a great way to maximize the benefits of yoga. I know, it can feel a little out there to think that rubbing a drop or two of some plant oil on you is going to have some tangible effect on your body. However, think about this: before we had modern synthetic based drugs, people cured multitudes of maladies with plants alone. Yoga with essential oils is a great way to experience this effect.

Scientists who are way smarter than me, figured out how to mimic those plants’ chemical compounds and created drugs that have profound effects on the body, curing all manners of disease. So I ask, why is it so far-fetched to believe those same plant oils, in their purest forms, would not have the same effect now? In short, its not, it just takes a little getting used to the idea. To be clear, no-one is suggesting you should forgo all modern medicine for essential oils, that would be irresponsible, but why not give it a try and see if you realize any benefits?

The use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes is called aromatherapy. Different oils provide different benefits. Some oils can improve concentration or reduce stress, while others help boost the immune system or improve the quality of sleep. Yoga with essential oils is a great way to start to use oils in your everyday life.

There are many different oils out there, the trick is to find what works for you. That will depend on what you hope to achieve. Here are a few essential oil basics: for enhanced relaxation try lavender, marjoram or ylang ylang. Conversely, for energy try peppermint, rosemary or wild orange. For focus and concentration, try grounding oils like sandalwood, frankincense and cedarwood.

Now to amp up those benefits try yoga with essential oils. Here are a few suggestions on how to do that:

Use a Diffuser: Diffusing aerosolizes the oil molecules allowing you to breathe in their benefits. The most safest and most effective method is to use a diffuser which you can find either online or at most stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond. You simply add water and a few drops of oil and hit the start button.
Topical Application. Basically, you rub a few drops directly on to the skin. Always test for skin sensitivity first, and consider using a carrier oil such as fractionated (fatty acids removed) coconut oil to dilute the oil and cover more of the skin’s surface. Depending on the oil and the desired effect, there are a variety of ways to apply, for instance; rub peppermint on your chest or biceps before sun salutations for an energy boost; for relaxation, massage some lavender into the soles of your feet before final seated and reclined poses, or rub some sandalwood into your hands, cup your hands in front of your face to breath in the scent during the initial breathing exercises at the beginning of class.

Ingestion. Oils that are safe to ingest, such as lemon, lime and peppermint can be added to your water to sip during and after class. Be sure to confirm the oil you are using is safe for ingestion. Personally, I use doTerra products which carry a supplement label, letting you know they are safe to ingest, unless you see a similar label, do not assume you can ingest the oil.

We will be launching some free Yoga with Essential Oil videos on the Next Level Yoga YouTube Channel soon. The yoga will be absolutely beginner-friendly and will incorporate three different essential oils at different times during the practice. Here is a link to our YouTube Channel we would love it if you would take time to subscribe so we can notify you when they are available.

Below are some affiliate links to the three oils you will need for our first video. These links will take you to Amazon where the oils are sold at the retail price. I have included links to the two most popular brands of essential oil.

Lemon Oil links- Doterra 15ml Lemon Oil – Doterra 5ml Lemon Oil – Young Living 15ml Lemon Oil

Peppermint Oil links- Doterra 5ml Peppermint Oil–Doterra 15ml Peppermint Oil–Young LIving 15ml Peppermint Oil

Lavender Oil links- Doterra 5ml Lavender Oil– Doterra 15ml Lavender Oil– Young Living 5ml Lavender Oil

Hello Youtube… Summer Porch Yoga has Arrived

May 14, 2018 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

My daughter Piper tells me that all the cool kids put their “content” on Youtube; and, we all know coolness is my lifelong goal, so I am uploading my free videos onto YouTube. You can find me wedged between “Crazy Nuttyass Honey Badger” and “Goat Yelling Like a Man” Or, you can follow this link to my Hips and Hamstrings class https://youtu.be/TCey6kBCIqM
(but seriously that Goat is unsettling)

See you there!

Tara

NEXT LEVEL VIDEOS- CORE BALANCE CHALLENGE

November 28, 2017November 28, 2017 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

This class combines the two things my clients request most, cork work and balance. I don’t believe balance is improved by standing on one leg, but rather, by challenging the body’s ability to adjust during movements in all planes. Handily enough, all balance work requires core strength. I have combined kneeling core and balance work, with leg swings and lunges, a core isolation flow series, then a long leveraged balance sequence, we finish on our backs with a series I call dead crow progression. Not gonna lie, this one’s a challenge.
You will need a block.

NEXT LEVEL VIDEOS – Hips & Hamstrings

September 28, 2017 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

Issues with low back pain? Tight hip flexors and hamstrings are often the culprits. Try this lower body focused class to loosen those areas and provide some relief to your back. It’s beginner friendly and the only equipment you need is a strap. If you don’t have a strap, a long belt, dog leash or towel will do the trick. Enjoy!

NEXT LEVEL VIDEOS- Yin Yoga Tribute

September 20, 2017 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

Please enjoy this short practice which is my tribute to Yin Yoga. I designed this session to introduce my public classes to the concept of Yin Yoga. This particular session is a portion of a longer one hour class which will be available on my Vimeo page, https://vimeo.com/user64021270 in the near future.

Give it a try and let me know what you think.

NEXT LEVEL VIDEOS

September 18, 2017July 6, 2018 / dazeymayhem / 2 Comments

They are finally here! The videos that I have long promised to my live classes are becoming a reality. For those of you who take my classes, you know I change my theme and sequence each month. Sometime around the end of the month, I will be producing a video of that month’s class so you can replay your favorites.
Remember, this is no excuse to miss class, I still want to see you, in person, on your mat at least once a week. You are part of a community that needs you, whether you know it or not. I will link the classes here at Next Level Yoga when they come out, but you can always go to my YouTube Channel Tara Kestner Next Level Yoga YouTube Channel

Right now the videos are all free, in return I only ask that you take the time to subscribe to the channel and share them on your social media so we can build an online community, just like the great groups we have here in Ohio at the live classes and workshops.
Many Thanks,
Tara

Yoga + Essential Oils

April 8, 2016April 10, 2016 / dazeymayhem / 2 Comments

In short, its not, it just takes a little getting used to the idea. To be clear, no-one is suggesting you should forgo all modern medicine for essential oils, that would be irresponsible, but why not give it a try and see if you realize any benefits?

Now to amp up those benefits try incorporating essential oils into your yoga practice. Here are a few suggestions on how to do that:

Use a Diffuser: Diffusing aerosolizes the oil molecules allowing you to breathe in their benefits. The most safest and most effective method is to use a diffuser which you can find either online or at most stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond. You simply add water and a few drops of oil and hit the start button.

Topical Application. Basically, you rub a few drops directly on to the skin. Always test for skin sensitivity first, and consider using a carrier oil such as fractionated (fatty acids removed) coconut oil to dilute the oil and cover more of the skin’s surface. Depending on the oil and the desired effect, there are a variety of ways to apply, for instance; rub peppermint on your chest or biceps before sun salutations for an energy boost; for relaxation, massage some lavender into the soles of your feet before final seated and reclined poses, or rub some sandalwood into your hands, cup your hands in front of your face to breath in the scent during the initial breathing exercises at the beginning of class.
Ingestion. Oils that are safe to ingest, such as lemon, lime and peppermint can be added to your water to sip during and after class. Be sure to confirm the oil you are using is safe for ingestion. Personally, I use doTerra products which carry a supplement label, letting you know they are safe to ingest, unless you see a similar label, do not assume you can ingest the oil.

If you are interested in learning more, I teach Essential Yoga Workshops each month which incorporate oils into the yoga practice, consider giving one of those a try. The yoga is suitable for all levels of experience, the oils are all provided and most importantly, we have a lot of fun.

Here is the link to our Facebook page for more information on yoga and essential oils https://www.facebook.com/essentialyogaworkshop/ or better yet, go to: http://bit.ly/essentialyoga and register to join us sometime.

YOGA FOR FIREFIGHTERS CLASS DETAILS

October 30, 2015October 30, 2015 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

Bunker gear and helmet not required.

WHAT’S ALL THIS ABOUT?
This class is beginner friendly and appropriate for all experience levels. It will be therapeutic yoga, designed to undo the damage done to the body either at work or just the stress of everyday living. Each class will have a nice balance of work for increasing flexibility, joint stability, balance and overall stress relief. Sound like something you need, then read on…

WHO’S IT FOR?
This class is available to active and retired firefighters and their immediate families.

WHEN?
Mondays from 5:00 pm-6:00 pm, please arrive at least 10 minutes before class begins. Starting date- November 16, 2015.

WHERE?
Toledo Firefighter Union Hall
714 Washington Street
Toledo, OH 43604

HOW MUCH?
5 class pre-paid pass is $60.00.
Passes are perfect for those that know they want to commit to a class, but may not be able to make every week.

Drop-in price is $15.00 per class.
Not sure yoga is for you, try dropping into a class. This one class at at a time approach is a perfect way to test the waters with no long term commitment.

Cash, Check or Credit Cards accepted.

I’M INTRIGUED, TELL ME MORE….

**Don’t own a mat? No problem. Mats and props will be available for use at no additional charge, the only condition is you must let Tara know that you will be coming and need a mat before class.

** What should I wear and bring? Don’t feel awesome in spandex pants, no problem. Just wear something comfortable, Lightweight clothing is best, layers are your friend. I recommend bringing a beach size towel with you, the floor can be hard and cold.

**Drop in participation is welcome, so long as there is space available. If you want to drop into a class shoot me (Tara) an email at kestnert@bex.net before class just to ensure space is available and I have enough equipment on hand.

HOW DO I JOIN?

You can email me at kestnert@bex.net and indicate if you want a pass or want to drop in. Message me on Facebook at Tara Kestner Next Level Yoga Ltd.

WANT MORE INFORMATION?
Like our facebook page for updates http://www.facebook.com/nextlevelyogaltd
or, email kestnert@bex.net

FOOD!!! Piper’s Power Bites Recipe

August 17, 2015 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

For those of you who were at the Yoga & Essential Oils event, and loved my daughter’s treats, here is the recipe. They are not low cal, but they are full of clean, whole, delicious food.

Piper’s Power Bites
Ingredients:
1 cup finely shredded coconut
1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew whatever you like)
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 raw honey
1/2 tsp salt
2 TBS chia seeds
3 drops doTerra Wild Orange essential oil

Place all ingredients in mixer bowl EXCEPT for a 1/2 cup of coconut. Mix well until well combined. Refrigerate until firm (10-20 mins).

Roll into balls then coat with remaining coconut. Refrigerate or freeze until firm. Store in the refrigerator.

All-Level Hatha Yoga Class

February 12, 2015August 11, 2015 / dazeymayhem / Leave a comment

We are starting a new on-going yoga class which will be open to the public, here’s the 411…

WHAT’S THIS?
Hatha yoga is the name for the type of yoga generally practiced in the US. The word hatha translates to Sun and Moon, denoting the union and balance of opposing forces, heavy right? Basically, it means yoga with movement, postures and a focus on breathing for increased flexibility, joint mobility and stress relief.

This class is beginner friendly and appropriate for all experience levels. It’s designed to undo the damage we all do to the body either from athletic activity or just the stress of everyday living. Each class will have a nice balance of work for increasing flexibility, joint stability, balance and overall mobility. Sound like something you need, then read on…

WHEN?
Wednesday evenings from 6:00-7:00. A starting date will be announced when a minimum number of participants have confirmed.

WHERE?
CPW Health Center
3130 Central Park West Dr. Suite A
Toledo, OH (419) 841-9622

HOW MUCH?
6 class pre-paid pass is $60.00.

Drop-in price is $12.00 per class, subject to space availability.

Cash, Check or Credit Cards accepted.

I’M INTRIGUED, TELL ME MORE….

**Don’t own a mat? No problem. Mats and props will be available for use at no additional charge.

**Space is limited, therefore, participants holding pre-paid passes have first chance at class space (another good reason to buy the pass).

**Drop in participation is welcome, so long as there is space available. If you want to drop into a class you must check with Tara at kestnert@bex.net before class to ensure space is available.

HOW DO I JOIN?

You can email Tara at kestnert@bex.net and indicate if you want a pass or want to drop in.

You can call CPW Health Center (419) 841-9622 and tell them to sign you up.

WANT MORE INFORMATION?
Like our facebook page for updates http://www.facebook.com/nextlevelyogaltd
or, email Tara at kestnert@bex.net

Next Level Yoga

Yoga designed for real life.

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