yoga, it's a lifestyle
HOW IS MY BABY ONE YEAR OLD? These past weeks have flown by as I have slightly dreaded Lucca turning one year old. Of course, I want him to grow and am beyond grateful for his life. However, his time as a baby is moving way too swiftly for my liking. As a typical new... Continue Reading →
Happy Anniversary to me!!! This spring marks TEN YEARS without eating meat! That includes seafood as well. And I celebrate my choice every single day, and really, every meal. People ask if it was hard, where do I get my protein, if I miss meat, and why I gave it up. To answer those loaded... Continue Reading →
Back in high school, I struggled to find confidence and acceptance for myself and turned to eating disorders. I worked out far too much and even did yoga, but I did not understand much about the ancient practice. Feeling inadequate for 8 years, I battled bulimia on and off. I was never neglected or abused... Continue Reading →
Being a mother is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. Whether you have one child or six little ones, it is demanding, exhausting, rewarding, and life-changing. Each child has their own personality, and part of your job is discovering theirs while providing what he or she needs. Motherhood is not for the... Continue Reading →
Self-love comes easily for some, and no so much for others. It's my mission to create that healthy, loving space for Lucca. When he learns to love and accept himself, he will be confident, caring, compassionate, kind, and generous. He will thrive and succeed. Many of us have been surrounded by negative self-talk, society and... Continue Reading →
Being a stay-at-home mom is no easy job. Unless you're a mother, it's hard to comprehend how much of your day is jam packed with preparations, chores, and busyness while staying with the kiddos. My infant boy has never been an "easy-going" child. He is pitta, full of fire and motion. He has lots of... Continue Reading →
Our society, very unfortunately, puts a lot of pressure and focus on outer appearances. We are told by companies and advertisements to lose weight, change our hair, buy these pants, use this makeup, and on and on and on. Basically, we are told we are not enough. It is untrue, and frankly, exhausting. We are... Continue Reading →
I say it regularly, and I'll say it again: I prefer to set intentions instead of goals or resolutions. Intentions come from a place of compassion and positivity, igniting hope for change. Resolutions can stem from a place of judgment or the thought that we are not complete as we are. So my intentions are... Continue Reading →
With a few days left of the year, I have mindfully decided to step back from social media, particularly Instagram and Facebook. While I enjoy being in touch with friends, finding yoga inspiration, and communication, I need a break. Some days, I'll scroll endlessly. Sometimes I'll get pissed at the amount of judgement, consumerism, and... Continue Reading →
As someone who identifies with Christianity, I have become increasingly triggered as of lately. There are everyday people, public figures, leaders in the community and country, and all over social media who claim to be Christian, but are forgetting what the whole religion is based upon. This religion, and the associated beliefs, is centered around... Continue Reading →
This morning's class was Kapha. Grounding, acknowledging feelings, and preparing for the upcoming full moon. 🌕 Lately I've been irritable, not towards my baby, but towards everyone else. I've gotten lost in my emotions and annoyed with how I've been mistreated. Then, this morning, I made the connection to LET IT GO. I realized I... Continue Reading →
I cannot believe my baby is half a year old! He seems so big, and has grown so much... but he's still a baby. Thank God! Babies are my favorite; infant age is my favorite phase but it has been much harder with my own child. I never expected being a mother would be simple,... Continue Reading →
For my entire life I have always said I will be the one to stay at home with my children, raising them. Fortunately, my husband works hard enough that I am privileged to do so. For the 28 years of life before baby, I idealized this dream. I could see my babies and me cuddled... Continue Reading →
It is crazy how our baby fights sleep. At night, naps during the day, just sleep in general. He does not want to miss a thing and wants to talk and play and be awake all the time. Obviously, we are exhausted. He is overtired too, but will never admit it. Just when I think... Continue Reading →
Hey there! I know I have not been posting regularly (due to that mom life), but if this blog is helping me work through feelings and share my experiences, it has to be a priority. To see where I am, it's interesting to go back through older posts to see where I've been. I... Continue Reading →
Goodness gracious. Sunday night was the new moon, and apparently I thought it was a good time to adjust Lucca's sleeping routines. We bed share, and even though it is controversial, it works for us. We do it as safe as possible, and I do not see it as an issue. What needs to change... Continue Reading →
There are days in all our lives when we feel run down, spread too thin, lost, without purpose, or just tired. I become tired often, so often it is as though I live in a perpetual state of tiredness. During these times or days or maybe weeks, it is common to question personal decisions. I... Continue Reading →
My word. Traveling is difficult enough with a baby who does not enjoy car rides, but a weeklong beach vacation is not really what I would call relaxation. There were a few moments of sweet napping, smiling at family, and watching the waves, but there might have been more whining, confusion, and exhaustion (for the... Continue Reading →
The summer days are busy with vacations, road trips, camps, family time, swimming, and work! How can we manage to give time to ourselves when the days seem to get away from us? And now school is beginning and activities are picking up. Where does the time go and how do we make time for... Continue Reading →
I shared a lot of my pregnancy journey through blog entries and on my Instagram page, but here are a few photos to highlight the time while baby bear was in my belly! It all goes by so fast; life is fleeting . . .
Some people are weird about breastfeeding, especially in public. I believe I was even raised to think the same thing, it should be in private. Did you know it is much more accepted in Europe and Africa? Most people don't give it a second thought if they spot you nursing your child on a park... Continue Reading →
The Importance of Positive Self Talk. How you talk to yourself and about yourself affects how you act and speak around others. Are you loving towards yourself or do you have a tendency to get down and harsh when you stumble? Do you give yourself room to breathe and compassion or immediately turn to self-pity? ... Continue Reading →
Being a mother is never easy. Even when days, or more likely moments of the day, run smoothly, there is always a chance of that changing. Here are a few truths I have learned with my three- month old boy: The Good Lucca naps lying on my chest, and I have just gotten used... Continue Reading →
With motherhood in full bloom, I find myself a little sleepier than I prefer. To be honest, I am someone who needs 9 hours of sleep to be rested and ready for the day. That has gone out the window now days, obviously, and it is quite alright. Some days though I am more zombie... Continue Reading →
Nothing could prepare me for motherhood or a postpartum yoga practice. People warned me, but motherhood is something no one really understands until it's experienced on a personal level (like many life phases). I was told numerous times how hard, wonderful, and tiring having a baby would be. I was prepared as much as possible... Continue Reading →
It has taken me quite a while to write this story. Nothing went as I planned (even though I was open-minded), and I think I have been feeling slightly guilty and embarrassed since I gave birth. Lucca arrived perfectly, and all is well now. But I am still not content in how it all happened,... Continue Reading →
I just finished up watching Queer Eye, and it really inspired me to get in the kitchen! Antony (the chef) and I would be best friends if he knew me! He would probably be annoyed with my veganism and allergies, but love me as a person. Or that is what I'm telling myself! Anyway, I... Continue Reading →
We all question ourselves and our abilities. Am I doing a good job? Am I doing this wrong? What can I do better? Am I the problem? The first night home from the hospital, I was a mess. Mainly due to the fact I slept 2-3 hours a day for our 3 day stay... Continue Reading →
Ever since I became pregnant, I have been more irritable than I have ever known. Things people say get under my skin, things I see on the Internet piss me off, and lots of little things drive me crazy to my core. This is where my human nature comes out. I lose all my yogi... Continue Reading →
A few nights ago: Sitting quietly, watching The Office (what else), enjoying a beer, and being so thankful. We have gotten into a routine, and I think it helps baby bear. Each night at 8:30, Lucca gets a bath or showers with me, pajamas, big bottle of breastmilk from Papa, snuggles, and falls asleep on... Continue Reading →
Ther other day I listened to a webinar that really resonated with me. One of the topics was body positivity versus acceptance and reality. What one of the women said spoke directly to me. Here is what I took from the conversation... We don't have to LOVE our flaws, we just have to find PEACE... Continue Reading →
Dearest Lucca, You coming into our lives has been a gift. You try my patience as you teach me infinite love. You worry me with your crying while you warm my heart with snuggles. You have stolen sleep from my nights, but I get to watch you sleep and make precious breathing sounds. You... Continue Reading →
I saw this cycling around Facebook a while ago and wanted to save and share it. Whenever we do have a girl, this will be helpful. *Also, I do not know who originated this, but if you do, please let me know so I can credit them! Rules For My Daughter: 1. Make your bed... Continue Reading →
Help! Not just anybody. It is SO hard for me to ask for help. One of my go-to themes in my personal yoga practice and classes is surrender. To let go. It is exactly what I need to work on now and is becoming increasingly more difficult. Having control makes me feel organized, put together. ... Continue Reading →
It has been a day. Prepare for some candid, colorful language... Holy shit, motherhood is hard. My sweet baby and I drove to Springville (about 30 minutes away) and back this morning. He cried loudly at least 85% of the drives. Today was one of those days he hated the car. I have listened to... Continue Reading →
Postpartum Finding time to practice yoga with a 2 month old baby is hard enough. Add in the facts that there are VERY few options in a small town, and I am not willing to leave my baby with anyone other than my husband, yet... There's very little asana these days. Yoga also looks... Continue Reading →
With a 2 month old, a working husband, a puppy, two kitties, yoga classes to teach, and a house to take care of, life tends to become a little hectic. Days might run together and I can feel as though nothing has been accomplished. What is important to remember: if the baby is well fed,... Continue Reading →
I have been HIGHLY frustrated recently. Being a new mom is no joke. I am aware of my insanity, but I cannot seem to let it go... I think the mama bear in me is roaring. I am tired. Tired of people hovering over MY baby. Tired of people calling my baby their baby. ... Continue Reading →
On any given day, I will have breastmilk spilled on me. And a boob out. Maybe both. Sometimes I forget... I may also forget I have to pee because I can't set him down. Or I put him in a wrap, and we go together. There isn't much time to answer texts or have a... Continue Reading →
Our baby is one month old. A lot of people say they cannot remember the time before the baby was born, but I definitely do. I remember sleeping a lot during my pregnancy, because I thought I was tired then. Now, I am consumed with everything baby. And I honestly, truly wouldn't have it any... Continue Reading →
It seems our society cares so much about artificial beauty, and it becomes difficult to see the beauty within ourselves because of the outward influences. But pregnancy has made me feel beautiful. Really beautiful. After years and years of distorted body image and eating disorders, I never really felt worthy of positive attention or comfortable... Continue Reading →
First of all, HAPPY DUE DATE TO BABY BEAR!!!!!!!!! Even though I have been blogging about my pregnancy for 4 weeks at a time, these last many weeks will be clumped into one post. Many pregnant women say the second trimester is the most enjoyable, the first being difficult because of morning sickness and the... Continue Reading →
Welcome to the THIRD and final trimester! We settled on our OB/GYN, a really kind and supportive woman in the city. Originally I wanted a midwife and doula, but there are not any in are immediate area, the closest being at least 45 minutes away. And there are no birthing centers either. We went to... Continue Reading →
The other night, I let it all come in... The fear, anxiety, uncertainty, nervousness, and lack of control. All I have ever known is that I want to be a mom. I have a natural adoration for little ones, especially babies, and am honestly really good at caring for them. But not knowing when baby... Continue Reading →
My little baby bear, I promise to let you dream. Big, wild, magical dreams. I vow to protect you, but let you think and grow on your own. I will always hug you and tell you how much I love you. I vow to teach you about compassion, tolerance, ahimsa, and enjoying the simple things... Continue Reading →
I have recently made the mistake of asking some questions or for advice for my baby on social media. While most people are kind and helpful, there are a few that have no place in giving their opinions. Men (no uterus, no opinion about pregnancy or breastfeeding). Women that have never experienced pregnancy, have no... Continue Reading →
At the beginning of each year, we set intentions or expectations of things we want to improve throughout the year. As the days and months go on, some of those intentions drift away and our focus lessens. There are a few ways to help you throughout your year! It is only a few weeks into... Continue Reading →
Experts now recommend that pregnant mothers and their birthing coach make up a "birth plan" and let their team know. The purpose is to make the mother and her supporters feel more comfortable about labor and delivery and have a little guide of what to expect. And so. I will begin to create my birth... Continue Reading →
Is planning a wedding or preparing for a baby more stressful? Both occasions, although celebrating love and life, are very different. My experiences with both were/are a little of a roller coaster. First off, wedding planning was MUCH more stressful. Second off, it was pretty worth it! I know preparing for a baby will... Continue Reading →
Pregnancy has really humbled me. I feel like I say and think this all the time. Every day, and every week, there is something new going on. As much as I have enjoyed pregnancy and want to be pregnant forever, I know that feeling is fleeting. At 25 weeks, Baby Bear was growing right... Continue Reading →
One thing I learned in Yoga Teacher Training was that mid-winter (New Year's) is not the most logical time to set demanding Resolutions. During this time of year, we are wanting to relax, stay warm inside, and indulge in yummy holiday treats. While it is important to WANT to improve our lives, it is also... Continue Reading →
Now THIS is pregnancy! There is no more wondering if a little baby is growing in my belly. A few weeks ago, I began to feel the baby moving, and it was simply magic. At 24 weeks, the baby moves all the time, and my husband can finally feel it when he touches baby's home!... Continue Reading →
If you follow my Instagram (@sarieberryfairy) you might have seen me mention my diet. Mainly I use this social media platform for yoga, inspiration, and sharing my memories, but I also like to share more intimate and meaningful topics. Currently, this has included my diet transitioning from vegetarian to vegan. For almost 9 full years,... Continue Reading →
Men and women are significantly different, and that is what makes the world go around. However, there are some things women will never know about men, and many things men will never understand about women and their bodies. Through my pregnancy, I have experienced more emotions than I have since my eating disorder episodes or... Continue Reading →
"Letting go" has become a theme in my life the past few years. Whether it is getting rid of old emotions, toxic relationships, harmful habits, stress, or negativity, I have been faced with the realization to surrender. Every week, I offer this as an intention to my yoga students. There are so many things in... Continue Reading →
I am not one of those people who says "Adopt, Don't Shop," because I think that ALL cats and dogs deserve a loving home. My family dog, Henry, who just passed away was bought at a pet store. Sarah Belle, my husband's and my black labrador, was also purchased from a breeder. Both of their... Continue Reading →
The nausea has gotten much, much better! Thank you, God! Nausea only creeps up at night, and is not nearly as extreme as it was in the second month. I still am very fatigued, but that is part of pregnancy. I'm okay with the tiredness and think I have gotten used to it and being... Continue Reading →
After we found out that I am pregnant, I told most of my closest friends and family. It is SO DIFFICULT for me to keep a secret like this! My dream in life has always been to be a mommy, and now everything was falling into place. John, my sweet husband, has been taking care... Continue Reading →
It has taken me a very long time to get to this point, many years in fact. You have heard me talk about my struggles with eating disorders on and off for 8 years. This is not a subject that I ever saw myself discussing, or being freed from. But here I am, the healthiest... Continue Reading →
I lead a "mindful walk" weekly at the YMCA as part of my yoga teachings. This 30 minute to an hour walk has become one of my favorite times of the week. I learn so much about the community, how much the mind drifts away, and something new every single week. It's enlightening! What is... Continue Reading →
Before I dive into this story, I want to defend myself. As a very spiritual being and proud Christian, I am open to others' beliefs and appreciate that God has given me the chance to "witness" to others. However, I have never been one to "push" my religion and convictions on others. While these are... Continue Reading →
In the past few months, I have had more "no-shows" in my classes than I have had in 1.5 years teaching in Nashville. Moving to a much smaller city where people are unsure of yoga has really opened my eyes. I was prepared for fewer people in class and even getting paid less. However, I... Continue Reading →
One of the best and most beautiful areas of Gadsden is Noccalula Falls! This 90 foot tall waterfall is surrounded by gardens, majestic trees, a petting zoo, and a full park. It is quite easy to spend a whole day here! Being near to the Falls was one of the biggest draws of our new... Continue Reading →
A few years ago, I was painfully let go from a job. For this position, I was overqualified and underpaid to say the least. Most of the women there were- and still are. Anyway, I loved the children I worked with and most of the co-teachers. The majority of women there were kind and understanding.... Continue Reading →
We had some family in town last week, and afterwards I was completely zoned out. My brother-in-law and his wife came in from across the country with their four little ones. I rarely see them, and each time I do, there is another blonde baby! Anyway, the week was so full and fun and left... Continue Reading →
Isn't the Universe awesome? Isn't the Power of God amazing? The Creator of the Universe is speaking to me, and I want to share this with you. Sunday morning at church the message was, "The Power of Forgiveness and the Power of Unforgiveness." AND the theme of my daily devotional for the same day... Continue Reading →
July is a busy month for Gadsden, Alabama and in the yoga community!! There are several opportunities to learn the art of yoga and practice in different environments. All classes taught by Sarie are open to ALL levels of yogis, ages, and genders. There is no judgement or comparison, only space for breathing and love.... Continue Reading →
The other day on my Instagram story, I shared a situation I felt very strongly about. During this story, I vented about how I disagree with the use of shock collars for pets. Here is what happened and my argument: I went into the bank to change my official name, and sat down with a... Continue Reading →
Today is Luna Mango's fourth birthday! I cannot believe how much a tiny, little kitty has changed my life. She is the sweetest little girl, just like her sister was. It is also very bittersweet; our sweetest puppy will celebrate her sister's and all the rest of her birthdays in Heaven. Looking through the stages... Continue Reading →
I'm going to be quite honest. This is something that I still struggle with, literally on a daily basis. I feel like I keep getting bigger; some days I am okay with it because I can see the muscle and feel my strength. And some days I hate how soft and full my body is.... Continue Reading →
Human beings are very complex and confusing creatures. As I get older, I realize that there are constantly challenges that face me, and I wonder if I will ever have a grasp on my own being. Finding my identity feels so close, yet not within arms length. I have always been the most emotional person... Continue Reading →
Regret is not something I claim. There are mistakes in my life, but I believe they all have taught me lessons. Sometimes the lesson is simply "don't do that again," or maybe the explanation is much deeper. Whatever the mistakes, everything has brought me right here, where I am meant to be. If I were... Continue Reading →
When I was a freshman in college, I had an experience with sexual assault. I never thought I would be sharing this, for various reasons. I think one of the main reasons I couldn't see myself sharing this trauma is because I couldn't admit it happened. I was not raped, beaten, bleeding, or severely injured.... Continue Reading →
"Karma Yoga is the Yoga of Action. It is the path chosen primarily by those of an outgoing nature. It purifies the heart by teaching you to act selflessly, without thought of gain or reward. By detaching yourself from the fruits of your actions and offering them up to God, you learn to sublimate the... Continue Reading →
Why did I write and publish the electronic book, "Healing Yoga: Volume 1"? Why is this guide for YOU? How does one stay committed to the healing process? There are so many yoga guides, books, teachers, and resources out there! With all this information, it is important that we search for the truth. Why do... Continue Reading →
This is the last yoga practice pose I will be posting for a while, giving you plenty of time to catch up with your postures and possibly improving! Chair Pose Begin in Tadasana, Mountain pose, taking several rounds of breath to settle into your body. Keep the belly hugging into the spine. Imagine pulling... Continue Reading →
My husband and I have recently decided to move from Nashville, TN to Gadsden, AL. I am originally from Shreveport, LA (a population of about 100,00), and he is from Gadsden. We have been here for about 5 years, 6 for me, and are ready for a big change. Even though we are only about... Continue Reading →
Adho Mukha Svanasana Downward-facing dog is one of the most popular poses you'll see in class and for many great reasons! It is considered an "inversion" because the head is lower than the heart and therefore raises the heart rate. You stretch the hamstrings, the back, and even the ankles! To enter Downward Dog: Begin... Continue Reading →
Paschimottanasana or Seated forward fold. This is one of my favorite GO-TO poses! This bend stretches the hamstrings, helps calm the mind, and decreases depression. Begin in Dandasana (Practice 3). Keep the naval pulling into the spine and the legs flexed and engaged. Toes point to the sky. Inhale and push the tailbone back, away... Continue Reading →
Crescent Lunge (Low Lunge) Begin in Mountain Pose, standing at the top of the mat. Exhale the hands down to the mat, and step the left foot back 3-4 feet to lower the left knee. Inhale and lift the chest up, pulling the belly in. Drop the shoulders and gather the hands at heart center... Continue Reading →
Ever since my little brother was born, 22 months after me, I was obsessed with all things babies and cute kiddos! I blame a lot of this on him, because he was the cutest baby with the most kissable cheeks. I always tried to kiss his cheeks, even on the school bus. He didn't like... Continue Reading →
(CONTINUED) I found friends that had the same issues, and we would discuss and obsess our habits together. Just like any other "common interests" connect people, so do eating issues. Only now I see it as what it is... enabling and unhealthy. The first time I tried to "quit" was my freshman year in... Continue Reading →
[ Why you shouldn't be afraid to go to your first yoga class ] Fear is a force that either drives and encourages us or destroys us. There are SO many fears and misconceptions about yoga, the practice, the philosophies, and all things in between. When I talk about yoga, which let's face it, is all... Continue Reading →
The spring of 2010, my junior year in college, I was blessed to study abroad in Florence, or Firenze in Italian. As a student majoring in Art History and working towards a minor in Italian, this was a DREAM! Sometimes it feels like it still was. For a semester, I wandered the charming streets... Continue Reading →
And this is why I'm still a babysitter at 28 years old. 😍 These specific kids I began babysitting in the fall of 2011. I moved to Nashville for an art internship not knowing but a handful of people. I babysat one family part-time and was scared away by their intensity. So I looked for... Continue Reading →
Merriam Webster defines considerate as: (adjective) 1: marked by or given to careful consideration 2: thoughtful of the rights and feelings of others considerately (adverb) : considerateness (noun) *Also sympathetic regard. This is a concept that has become very present in my life. I think a lot of times we are focused on accomplishing a... Continue Reading →
With all the "cyber sales" and shopping madness, I am feeling in the GIVING spirit! For the month of December, I am offering major discounted prices for private and/or group sessions! The beauty of these "private sessions" is vast, so I will offer a better understanding of what exactly is to be expected. With a private... Continue Reading →
One advantage of being "shorter" is that I am always looking up. I often get a different perspective because of the viewpoint change. At 5 feet 4 inches, I might be considered average, but I usually do not feel that way. I am very comfortable with my height and have learned to deal with any... Continue Reading →
My love language has become so obvious to me. Quality time. I feel the most loved when I am spending TIME with my loved ones. I love, love, love my friends. It might be an insane amount, kind of like my love for John and our pets, but they light my heart up! Now since... Continue Reading →
I am about to embark on a new training - yin yoga. It is a short intensive weekend in the mountain town of Asheville. One of the required readings is, "Wherever you go There you are." Unknowingly, I purchased this book at a discount book store several weeks ago. Maybe even months ago. I have... Continue Reading →
I share this link from one of my favorite blogs. I will continue to share other useful information, and will also contribute my own! https://blog.myfitnesspal.com/1-mindset-tweak-that-will-help-you-lose-weight/?user_id=234639976041837&alt_source=mfp&alt_medium=email&alt_campaign=weekly20160201&utm_source=mfp&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=weekly20160201&mkt_tok=3RkMMJWWfF9wsRoluqTIZKXonjHpfsX77%2BguWKCyiokz2EFye%2BLIHETpodcMT8FqM6%2BTFAwTG5toziV8R7DBLM153N8QXRTg
Ciao! Welcome to my website and blog! I will joyfully be sharing some yoga tips, stories of love and optimism, healthy food options, and ways to relax using art. I have found so many aids in developing the spiritual and physical practice of yoga and want to spread my love for the ancient tradition! I... Continue Reading →
Yoga with Sarie 