Yoga is a very important part of my life, and I love it just as much as I love cooking. I've been practicing yoga on and off since I was 17 years old (i.e., way back when in 2000). Throughout the years, I've taken several breaks from my practice; however, no matter how long I step away from it, I always find my way back. Yoga feels like home; a home within myself, my mind, my heart, and my soul. When I regularly flow, grow, and let-go on my mat, I find new space from within. A space that offers both comfort and clarity. I view my mat and my practice as a safe-haven that I can access whenever life deals a difficult hand; never to escape, but to find as much acceptance as I'm capable of finding in that moment. Beyond its offerings of peace during tricky times, yoga just makes me downright happy. I've been known to come home from a good flow, feeling high on life, and bound around the house with happiness. Dan likes to call my silly, post-yoga state "yoga zoomies." There's something so awesome about experiencing inspiration, contentment, and energy from something as simple as moving and breathing deeply. It's a wonderful reminder that love and happiness are found by activating life's simple pleasures over and over again. Breathe, flow, love, smile, repeat.
So what does all this touchy-feely chatter have to do with today's post? Great question. Read on, my fellow yogis.
Today, I'm partnering up with the amazing Yoga Journal to talk to you about two things:
1| A tasty and approachable 21-Day Vegan Challenge.
2| A fabulous Yoga Journal giveaway for one lucky reader.
First things first, let's talk about this challenge business. I've never been one to share my lifestyle choices without an invitation; it's just not my style. Living our lives the way we live them is 100% a personal choice. What works for me, might not work for you and vice versa. This is your life, and you have to live it with authenticity and in a way that promotes the best possible you. That being said, I'm going to gently toss this opportunity at each of you, but especially those of you who have already been considering a transition to veganism or have been wanting to dip your toes into plant-empowered waters.
Yoga Journal has launched a 21-Day Vegan Challenge in hopes of opening our eyes (and mouths) to the perks of eating plant-based. They take a balanced and flexible approach in their mission to showcase the health benefits of incorporating more veg-tastic meals into your diet. Whether your involvement means embarking on the 21 days and stopping there, incorporating a few more plantiful meals into your weekly routine, or even stepping fully into a plant-based lifestyle, this challenge is simply a platform of support and companionship in your lifestyle-experimentation journey. You can sign-up for the 21-Day Vegan Challenge newsletter here to receive tips and clean-eating motivation to bolster your vegan adventure. Cheers to YOU.
Now, onto the second part of this treat-laden post: a super exciting Yoga Journal subscription giveaway!
Why We Love Yoga Journal
Did you read the first paragraph of this post? I love yoga and pretty much anything related to it. Yoga Journal is far more than a magazine, it's a knowledgeable tour guide in my ever-changing yoga journey. From the newest yoga gear to poses that encourage restful sleep, Yoga Journal has it all. I recycle most of my magazine purchases after a few reads through, but not yoga journal. No way. I hold onto each and every one I've ever purchased because each overflows with valuable tidbits of wellness inspiration. I love every giveaway, but this one has a special place in my heart.
About Yoga Journal
Yoga Journal has been bending the minds of yogis since 1975, but its October 2014 issue marked the debut of a cover-to-cover redesign with a new focus on more accessible yoga instruction and additional lifestyle content, including articles on clean eating, conscious living, ethical style, and natural beauty. Its yoga content targets the intermediate practitioner while also offering inspiring and useful information for both beginners and advanced yogis.
Yoga Journal Giveaway
One lucky reader will win a one-year subscription to Yoga Journal. For a chance to win, simply enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below and comment on this post between October 18th and October 25th. The winner will be chosen at random when the entry period ends on October 25th. Please note: this giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada.
Cara says
Go vegan! Love this blog!!
Ashley says
Thanks, Cara! :)
Donna F. says
I took my first yoga class in years today and I just love how it makes me feel, mind body and soul. Nothing but positive energy and the perfect way to begin the day. Today I remembered how much I missed having it in my life!
Lauren says
Prenatal yoga was such an amazing way to stay active and practice relaxing during my pregnancy. Now, post baby, it's my go to activity during his naps
Melissa T says
I haven't delved deep into yoga yet, but I love the idea of it because you learn more about getting in tune with yourself in the process.
DebbieKL says
I love yoga as an all around workout that makes me much more aware of my body and what it's capable of!
Wendy P says
I am currently undergoing testing for Hodgkins Lymphoma ~ scans, bloodwork, etc. Needless to say, this is my wake up call. After years of gym memberships & fad workouts, I realize that being gentle towards my body is what I am need of the most. This giveaway has definitely come at the right time in my life.
Ashley says
Wendy, I'm so sorry to hear that you're undergoing testing for Hodgkins Lymphoma. I'll keep you in my thoughts and send lots of positive thoughts your way. It's amazing that you've shifted your perspective to view this tricky time as an opportunity to care for your body and be gentle with it; it's so very inspiring, and a good reminder to all of us. I hope you receive good news, Wendy. All my best to you!
punkrockmartha says
i love yoga because i haaate exercise but can actually handle a peaceful session of stretching out all my tensions. thanks for the giveaway!
Paige says
I always liked the idea of yoga but it felt a little too slow. After trying many different types, I now love it and schedule it in my week first, and then fill all of the other stuff in around it!
Adele says
I love yoga because it's a great form of exercise while still being very gentle.
Sarah says
Yoga is everything to me right now. it has gradually changed my life over the past few years and it has done so much for me that it has inspired me to take teacher training! this just began last weekend and it is amazing! I love you a good jurnal because it feels like and all encompassing outlet that is ready to read for those who are interested in learning more.
barbara n says
Yoga is so relaxing and a good body activity for me!
Becky says
Yoga keeps me centered and in touch with my body. So much of my life takes me out of the present. Yoga keeps bringing me back.
Kaylee says
I just love how relaxing it is and how good it feels to stretch!
gail says
I love yoga because it adds peace and stability in life.
Laura Peterson says
Love the challenge! Took it 8 years ago and haven't gone back!!
Johanna B says
I currently get up early in the morning when it's dark and quiet. I meditate and then do my morning yoga routine that I got from an old issure of Youga Journal. It's the perfect way to start the day. I can tell a big difference on days when I oversleep and don't get to practice.
Veronique Daoust says
I love the mind-body connection that yoga gives me. My morning practice sets me up for a peaceful mindset to get me through my stressful workdays. Without it I'd be lost!
Natasha Manchester says
I love yoga because it helped me find love for myself. I was in a really dark place a year ago and suffering from severe depression and then I found yoga. I couldn't be happier.
Ashley says
Thanks for your beautiful comment, Natasha. It's amazing how powerful yoga can be in shedding light on life's darker places. I'm so glad you've had such a positive experience with it!
Lisa says
I love the way I feel during and after yoga!
Becca says
Love how yoga can clam the mind!
Liz says
As a runner, I love yoga because it's a great way to counterbalance all the pounding and compacting my body endures on the road. Also, I'm always in better touch with my natural hunger and fullness cues when practicing yoga regularly.
Katie M says
Yoga is such a cleansing practice that has really allowed me to respect my body and embrace both its abilities and limitations without resentment. It reminds me to embrace each moment and turn inward for validation and peace.