Waterfall Pose If you're not acquainted with Restorative Yoga and Yin Yoga, you might wonder, "What's the difference?" when watching these classes. While they share some similarities, they are actually quite distinct. Both styles are slow-paced, floor-based, and involve long holds, as well as make use of yoga props. But, in Restorative Yoga, the focus is on comfort, healing, and triggering the body's relaxation response. In Yin Yoga, the focus is on gently stressing connectiv

Elderberry Syrup Now that we're in Autumn, the days are getting shorter and the colder air is moving in. As much as I love this time of year, I need to think ahead to the cold and flu season and prepare my medicine cabinet for winter. Because of Elder's affinity for the respiratory system, it's our herbal ally for October. Elder - October's Herbal Ally Botanical Information Elder (Sambucus nigra and S. canadensis) is a deciduous, rapidly growing shrub or small tree in the Ado

Restorative yoga is a unique and nurturing practice that provides individuals with the opportunity to destress and gently relax into various postures. This form of yoga emphasizes the use of props, such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks, to support the body in a way that promotes deep relaxation and comfort. Unlike more vigorous styles of yoga that focus on strength and flexibility, Restorative yoga invites practitioners to slow down and cultivate a sense of peace and tranqui

Aging skin often feels dry, fragile, and appears less vibrant; but caring for it with natural ingredients can make a big difference. One such ingredient is shea butter, a time-tested remedy that has been used for centuries in sub-Saharan Africa. Extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, this rich butter is packed with vitamins and fatty acids that deeply nourish the skin. So, let's explore shea butter for healthy aging skin. Understanding Aging Skin As we grow older, our skin

As summer slowly comes to end and fall begins later this month, it’s time to prepare our winter herbal apothecary. Mullein is the perfect herb for our home apothecary because of its benefits to the respiratory system; therefore, Mullein is our herbal ally for September. Mullein is abundant now and has been all summer; so, forage what you can if you see it growing while walking or hiking. However, don't pick any herb that grows along a busy highway or road (which mullein does

Aging gracefully is something many of us aspire to, and finding natural ways to support our bodies is key. Yoga offers a gentle, nurturing path to maintain strength, flexibility, and peace of mind. I know firsthand how yoga can be a game-changer for seniors looking to reduce aches and pains, and improve mobility, balance, sleep, and energy. I came to yoga because of back pain and it has helped me tremendously. So, let’s explore how yoga can support senior health and vitality

Summer calls for meals that are quick, fresh, and easy to prepare. When the heat rises, the last thing you want is to spend too much time in the kitchen or turn on the oven. That’s why I love this simple recipe for eggs with summer vegetables. It’s a perfect dish for any meal of the day, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is not only fast but also flexible. You can cook your eggs sunny-side-up, over-easy, or scrambled. You can use fresh summer vegetables from th

This Summer Squash and Green Chile Sauté is a simple, vibrant dish that brings fresh, seasonal flavors to your table. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a light, nutritious meal that supports good digestion and energy. I love how this recipe combines the mild sweetness of summer squash with the gentle heat of green chile, making it a comforting yet lively dish. This sauté is easy to prepare and packed with ingredients that nourish the body naturally. It’s a great way to

Field of Lavender Lavender is the herb I use more than any other – in tea blends, extracts, solar-infused oils to make lotions and salves for skincare, as well as its essential oil for aromatherapy. Lavender Festivals are held throughout the summer month's in many states, as well as in Europe, to celebrate this wonderful plant. So, Lavender is our herbal ally for August. Lavender – August’s Herbal Ally Lavender plants Botanical Information Lavender comprises around 30 plant s

Vinegar is a kitchen staple that adds zest and depth to many dishes. But did you know that infusing vinegar with herbs can boost its health benefits and flavor? I’ve been making my own herbal-infused vinegars and oils for years, using fresh herbs from my garden. It’s a simple way to create delicious salad dressings and add a natural touch to your meals. Let's look at the different vinegars and herbs you can use, and how to make your own herbal-infused vinegar at home. This is

When the weather heats up, the last thing I want is to turn on the oven and heat up the whole kitchen. That’s why I love this simple pasta with broccoli and shrimp recipe. It’s quick, light, and all done on the stovetop. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that support good digestion and energy, which is especially important as we age. This meal combines tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and juicy shrimp with garlic and olive oil. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that

Caprese Salad with Prosciutto Summer calls for meals that are light, fresh, and easy to prepare. One of my favorite dishes to enjoy during warm days is a Caprese salad with prosciutto. This simple yet elegant salad combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and the salty richness of prosciutto. It’s a perfect way to nourish your body with wholesome ingredients while keeping your meal cool and satisfying. Ingredients You’ll Need for Caprese Salad with Prosciut

Lemon Balm Tea When life feels overwhelming, and your body seems to be fighting battles you can't always see, finding gentle, natural support can make a world of difference. Let’s explore how Lemon Balm, July's herbal ally, can become a part of your wellness routine, offering comfort and balance when you need it most. Lemon Balm - July's Herbal Ally Lemon Balm growing in a garden Botanical Information Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial herb with a bushy appearanc

Growing herbs in your garden during the summer is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh flavors and aromas. But have you ever thought about preserving those herbs so you can enjoy them all year long? Store-bought herbs often lack the vibrant taste and potency of home-grown ones. Air-drying your herbs is a simple, natural way to keep their flavor alive through the colder months. How to Air-dry Your Herbs at Home Drying herbs by air is an easy process that anyone can do. Here’s how

Brain Fog Brain fog is something many of us have felt at one time or another. It’s that fuzzy, slow feeling in your mind that makes it hard to focus, remember things, or think clearly. While it’s not a medical condition itself, brain fog often shows up as a symptom in many long-term health issues. Inflammation, stress, poor sleep, and certain medications can all play a part. Many chronic conditions, including autoimmune diseases, diabetes, thyroid problems, infections like L

Aging is a wonderful journey, though it frequently presents challenges that may impact your energy, mobility, digestion, and sleep. Embracing natural herbal remedies can be a gentle and nurturing method to support your body. These remedies provide a holistic approach to aging gracefully, allowing us to feel strong, and clear each day. So let's take a look at some herbal allies that can help you sustain your vitality and live life to the fullest. Discovering Herbal Remedies fo

Calendula Blossoms Calendula is one of my favorite herbs for skin care. I grow it every year and make infused oils with the calendula blossoms, which I use in massage oils, lotions, creams, and salves. With the Summer Solstice coming later this month, Calendula's sunny blossoms make it the perfect herbal ally for June. Calendula – June’s Herbal Ally Botanical Information Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a hardy, daisy-like annual in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. Its comm

Meadow with wildflowers Wildcrafting, also known as foraging, is a wonderful way to gather herbs, plants, and fungi from their natural habitats. When done with care, it can provide fresh, natural ingredients for food and medicine. Wildcrafting not only connects me with nature but also supports my well-being in a gentle, sustainable way. Understanding Wildcrafting Wildcrafting means more than just picking plants. It’s about respecting the environment and ensuring the plants wi

There's nothing like doing yoga outdoors! By practicing yoga outside, you get to be a part of nature. All that time cooped up in your home or office isn't healthy for your mind and body. Spending time in nature is a natural mood enhancer. It also helps you to feel more connected to the natural world. So check out my Yoga in the Park class this summer. If you're in the Rio Rancho, NM area, come join us on Thursdays from 9:00-10:00 am at Haynes Park (southwest corner), beginni

Comfrey salve on a wooden table When it comes to natural remedies, comfrey salve has long been cherished for its soothing properties. If you’re looking for a gentle, effective way to address wounds or ease aches and pains, comfrey salve might just be the answer. Let’s dive into how comfrey salve can support wound care and provide pain relief. Understanding Comfrey Salve for Wounds and Pain Relief Comfrey salve is a topical ointment made from the comfrey plant (Symphytum offic