Freeing Yourself from the Past: A Mind-Body Approach

Our mind and body thrive when we are fully present. But what does it truly mean to be in the moment? How can we embody the here and now?

Mind: A Path to Clarity and Healing

Being mentally present means focusing on what we are doing and experiencing in this very moment, rather than being caught in the web of past memories or future anxieties.

When we dwell on the past, it often manifests in various ways: lingering regrets, unresolved grief, guilt, or even old grudges that weigh us down. If these feelings from the past continue to influence our present, they signal a need for healing. Such emotions are not merely inconveniences; they are important messages from our inner world. By listening to them, we gain insight into our wounds and identify areas ripe for growth and transformation.

It’s essential to recognize that we are not our feelings—our emotions are like signposts, guiding us toward healing and liberation. Acknowledge your feelings with compassion, but resist the urge to fully identify with them. Doing so allows you to transform pain into growth, and confusion into clarity.

On the other hand, when our mind leaps into the future, it often reflects a sense of uncertainty or insecurity in the present. This is a reminder to ground and center ourselves. Practices like meditation, pranayama (breathwork), and mantra can help anchor the mind, bringing a sense of calm, clarity, and contentment. By cultivating the ability to shift our perspective, we empower ourselves to heal meaningfully and deeply.

Body: Reconnecting to the Wisdom Within

To be present in our body means embracing physical sensations as they arise—with acceptance, curiosity, and without judgment. Our body holds profound wisdom. It often carries the echoes of past wounds, traumas, and difficult experiences. As the saying goes, “the issues are in the tissues.”

Sometimes, these stored experiences are painful enough that we unconsciously disconnect from our bodies, numbing ourselves to avoid discomfort. Yet, this disconnection doesn’t just shield us from pain—it also limits our ability to feel joy, peace, and fulfillment. By avoiding discomfort, we unknowingly build barriers to true happiness.

Healing begins when we gently reconnect with our body. As we learn to feel safe, grounded, and present within ourselves, we unlock a deeper capacity for peace, joy, and wholeness. This is not just physical—it’s a holistic process where mind and body work in harmony, each influencing the other.

A healing journey that synchronizes mind and body fosters self-acceptance, compassion, and love—not just for ourselves but also for others. When we nurture this connection, we create space for authentic healing and growth.

If the echoes of the past are keeping you from fully embracing the present, now is the time to take the first step toward healing. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

As a yoga therapist, I’m here to support and guide you in reconnecting with your mind and body, transforming old wounds into newfound strength and clarity. Together, we can create a personalized plan that integrates proven yogic practices like meditation, breathwork, and movement to help you feel grounded, balanced, and at peace.

The path to freedom, joy, and self-acceptance begins today. Reach out to start your healing journey—because you deserve to live fully, here and now. Click here to book a free consultation today.

The Power of Gratitude: Transforming Your Well-being from the Inside Out

In today’s world, where stress, uncertainty, and negativity often take center stage, practicing gratitude can be a life-changing habit. Research in psychology and neuroscience shows that gratitude isn’t just a fleeting feeling—it’s a transformative practice that can lead to lasting improvements in happiness, emotional resilience, and physical health. Even in the yoga world, gratitude and spiritual practices go hand in hand, opening the heart and nurturing inner peace.

Gratitude: A Connection to the Divine

The word gratitude originates from the Latin root gratus, meaning “to praise, to celebrate; to be in contact with the Divine.” In essence, gratitude is a recognition of the divine presence in your life, a state of bliss where you find value, virtue, and goodness in everything around you.

In yoga philosophy, the divine is not something external—it resides within you, at the center of your heart. By practicing gratitude, you deepen your connection to your soul and to the world around you. When your heart is open, feelings of abundance and generosity flow effortlessly, and you experience an interconnectedness with all of creation.

Shifting from Ego to Soul

Gratitude helps us move from ego-driven thoughts—such as fear, scarcity, and anger—to a place of love, expansion, and trust. When we truly appreciate something, our ego steps aside. It is impossible to focus on both ego and gratitude at the same time.

The more we cultivate gratitude, the less space we allow for negative emotions like fear, greed, and anger—traits often tied to the ego. As a result, we shift our focus from limitation and fear to expansion and love, fostering inner peace.

Gratitude as a Reframing Tool

One of the most powerful effects of gratitude is its ability to reframe situations. In moments of difficulty, gratitude enables us to see the bigger picture and appreciate aspects we may have overlooked. Instead of feeling trapped in negativity, a daily gratitude practice teaches us to find things to be thankful for, even in challenging times. The more we practice looking for the good, the more we find it.

How Gratitude Changes Your Body

Gratitude doesn’t just impact your mind—it affects your body on a biochemical level. When we shift from negative thinking to a mindset of appreciation, our brain function becomes more balanced, and the rhythm of our heart becomes more coherent. This shift triggers a cascade of beneficial biochemical responses that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall health. In other words, practicing gratitude can quite literally make your body more open and harmonious.

The Happiness Effect

Starting your day with gratitude can create a powerful shift in your internal landscape. Before you even get out of bed, take a moment to say “Thank you,” and think of a few things you’re grateful for. Go beyond just thinking—feel these moments as sensations in your body. This practice can change your entire mood for the day.

Gratitude is known to boost neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, as well as the hormone oxytocin—all of which are associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. Regular gratitude practice can lead to a more positive outlook on life.

Making the World a Better Place

Gratitude isn’t just about improving your own well-being—it can have a ripple effect on the people around you. When you express gratitude toward someone else, you create a positive experience for both of you. It strengthens relationships and fosters empathy and kindness.

As you practice gratitude and feel better about yourself, you bring that positivity into your work, relationships, and community. In this way, gratitude has the power to make the world a better, more compassionate place.

gratitude and Kundalini yoga

Luckily we have a Kundalini Yoga practice that helps us to release blockages in the heart center, connect with our heart and allow the gratitude to shine out in our lives and in the world. This is precisely, what we are doing at the moment in High On Yoga membership, if you would like to join us, follow this link. 

This week, we are going to practice the meditation to create a heart of gratitude. In this mediation we chant mantra ANG SANG WAHE GURU. The meaning of the mantra is loosely: ‘Every part of my body is dancing in the divine melody, every cell is vibrating in the infinite source of all. Every cell in my body is happy.’ It helps to to truly connect with the heart center and find the inner peace. When we balance our physical body, change the chemistry in your being, connect and open the heart and then gratitude is easy! Join us on the mat🤩 

With deep gratitude! Daria

Exploring the Power of Yoga Therapy: A Holistic Path to Wellness.

Yoga therapy is a holistic modality that focuses on addressing an individual's specific conditions to restore health, vitality, and overall wellness. It integrates both Eastern and Western approaches, drawing from traditions such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Kundalini yoga, and meditation and other modalities that in short we call Kundalini Medicine.

Holistic Approach to Health

Yoga therapy is rooted in the connection between body, mind, and spirit. It addresses not only the physical body but also the mind, emotions, energy centers, and energy channels. This biopsychosocial-spiritual care model allows for a comprehensive approach to health and healing.

Who Can Benefit from Yoga Therapy?

Yoga therapy is for anyone seeking to understand their bodies and minds better and actively create balance and improve health. It's particularly beneficial for those with health challenges that conventional medicine might not fully address. Clients are encouraged to take an active role in their healing process, moving away from passive reliance on doctors and pharmaceuticals. 

Why Yoga Therapy Works

Yoga therapy's effectiveness lies in its individual approach and holistic model. Each person is unique, and treatments are tailored to address the individual, considering various perspectives such as energy flow in meridians, chakra imbalances, or dosha irregularities. This comprehensive assessment ensures a personalized treatment plan. A bespoke therapeutic plan is much more effective than generic practices. Additionally, clients are fully supported and guided by yoga therapist giving them confidance and ensuring the success of the treatment. 

Powerful Tools of Yoga Therapy

Yoga therapy employs a range of powerful tools, including Kundalini yoga, meditations, mantras, breathing techniques, mindset shifts, lifestyle interventions, and dietary recommendations. Each session typically involves an interview, treatment plan, and energy healing, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach.

Conclusion

Yoga therapy offers a healing journey of self-growth, self-exploration, and well-being. By addressing the unique needs of each individual and incorporating a holistic approach, yoga therapy empowers people to take charge of their health and achieve lasting wellness. Whether you're seeking to balance your life, address specific health issues, or embark on a journey of self-discovery, yoga therapy provides a compassionate and effective path to healing.

If you are curious if yoga theapy could help you too, book a free 30 minutes consultation to find out.

Follow this link to book. 

The Backbone of Well-being: The Importance of a healthy spine in spiritual practice.

Our spine, often taken for granted, is one of the most crucial parts of our body. It is not just a structural framework; it is the lifeline that supports our ability to move, function, and live a life free of pain and discomfort. The significance of maintaining a healthy spine cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in our overall well-being.

The spine is the backbone of our well-being, both literally and figuratively. By taking proactive steps to maintain spinal health, we can enjoy a life of mobility, strength, and comfort. A healthy spine is not just about avoiding pain; it is about enhancing your overall quality of life.

In yoga, the spine is considered more than just a physical structure; it is seen as a conduit for spiritual energy and a pillar of well-being. Maintaining a healthy spine is crucial not only for physical health but also for spiritual growth and practice. This is why I’ve decided to dedicate the next few months to focusing on the health, flexibility, and healing of the back.

Here are 5 reasons why working on our spine is important

1. Alleviating Back Pain 

Back pain is one of the most common complaints worldwide. Poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, and improper lifting techniques can lead to chronic back pain, which can be debilitating and affect daily activities. Those who have experienced back pain need no encouragement to practice yoga regularly. A healthy back is a side effect of regular yoga practice. Many people have told me that their back pain disappeared since they began practicing yoga consistently. Before becoming a full-time yoga teacher, I also worked in an office and was one of the few people who never complained about back pain. This is a testament to the benefits of Kundalini Yoga.

Additionally, in yoga, we say that age is measured by the flexibility of the spine, so to stay young, mobile, and healthy - stay flexible.

2. Enhanced Practice

A flexible and aligned spine ensures the unobstructed flow of spiritual energy. Blockages or misalignments can hinder this flow, leading to physical discomfort and a lack of spiritual progress. Maintaining spinal health helps keep this energy flowing smoothly.

Proper posture is essential for meditation and breathwork. A straight and comfortable spine allows for deeper, more focused meditation, helping practitioners remain still and attentive for extended periods. This stability facilitates inner peace and spiritual insight.

3. Protection of the Nervous System 

Encased within the vertebrae is the spinal cord, a critical part of the central nervous system. The spinal cord acts as a communication highway between the brain and the rest of the body, transmitting signals that control movement, sensation, and reflexes. Kundalini Yoga practice focused on the back will have a huge impact on nervous system functioning, helping us feel safer, calmer, and more open to the changing streams of life.

4. Chakra System 

The chakra system, central to yoga and other eastern spiritual traditions, aligns with the spine. The seven main chakras are positioned along the spinal column, each representing different aspects of spiritual and physical well-being. A healthy spine ensures the free flow of energy through these chakras.

5. Kundalini Energy 

In Kundalini Yoga, the spine is viewed as the central channel (Sushumna Nadi) through which the Kundalini energy rises. This energy is believed to lie dormant at the base of the spine and, when awakened, travels upwards through the chakras, leading to spiritual awakening or enlightenment.

Conclusion

The spine is truly the backbone of both physical and spiritual well-being. Its health impacts not only our daily functioning but also our spiritual practices and growth. By prioritizing spinal health through mindful posture, regular physical activity, and holistic practices, we can enhance our spiritual journey, facilitating a deeper connection with our inner selves and the divine. Embrace the path to a healthy spine and experience the profound benefits it brings to your spiritual practice.

Follow this link to join us on the mat to maintain a healthy back and happy life. This summer, we will be working with the theme of a healthy spine, engaging in kriyas that physically support the health of the back, improve energy flow, and promote healing through meditation.

Also, let me know in the comments why a healthy back is important to you :-)

Prosperity as a Journey of Self-Exploration

In the pursuit of prosperity, many of us envision a path paved with material success, financial stability, and career achievements. Yet, what if true prosperity lies not only in external accomplishments but also in the depths of our own self-exploration? What if the journey to prosperity is as much about inner growth and fulfillment as it is about outward success?

Self-exploration is a deeply personal and transformative journey that involves delving into the depths of our being, uncovering our true passions, values, and purpose. It requires us to question our beliefs, confront our fears, and embrace our vulnerabilities. Through self-reflection, introspection, and mindfulness practices, we begin to peel back the layers of societal conditioning and discover our authentic selves.

Here are 5 reasons why prosperity can be a beautiful journey of self-exploration. 

1. Connect with your truth.

At the heart of self-exploration lies the pursuit of fulfillment and meaning. While external success may bring temporary satisfaction, true prosperity stems from living a life aligned with our core values and passions. When we take the time to understand ourselves on a deeper level, we gain clarity about what truly matters to us and what brings us joy and fulfillment. 

2. Explore your subconscious patters, blockages and disconnection. 

Prosperity is about relationship with ourselves and our own infinity. If that relationship is spontaneous, we are secure, work hard, and serve people then prosperity is a flow, it flows to us and through us. If this is not the case, it’s an invitation to explore what are the blockages in this flow, where is the disconnection, how do we create this disconnection? Reflecting on those questions is going to show us our weakness, fears and blond spots. Then it’s up to us to start healing those patterns…    

3. Train your mind. 

When it comes to abundance and prosperity  - we have have believes and convictions that create our reality. Some of them are very old and unhealthy - and this is when relationship with your mind can come to play. Istead of just following our mind, we can question those beliefs and change our reality, in other words, we become in charge of our mind, instead of the mind being in charge of us telling us constantly how to think and what to do. It’s not an easy task - but work trying. 

4. Learn to trust. 

The journey to prosperity is showing us very clearly how much we trust the Universe. How much we trust ourselves…  How you feel about ourselves – when no one is watching us. This is the base for your prosperity. If we feel worthy of all the love and support from the Universe - the Universe will deliver. However, if we are controlling every step, every aspect of your life - this is precisely how we blocking that flow. So how deep is your trust? 90%? 60%? Or 2%?

5. Be guided. 

When we trust and surrender to the flow/ Universe - we will be guided on how to work, what do to and where to go. We can call it our Intuition. Instead of working hard, scheming and planning - we can connect with our Soul, increase our radiance, listen to the guidance and let our actions be aligned with the universal plan. Then we won’t be creating more karma, this is how we connect to our dharma(our purpose here). 

As we embark on this journey of self-exploration, let us remember that true prosperity lies not in the accumulation of wealth or possessions but in the richness of our inner world. Let us prioritize self-discovery, personal growth, and meaningful connections, knowing that true fulfillment comes from within. And let us embrace the beauty and complexity of our own unique journey, trusting that each step we take brings us closer to prosperity in its purest form. Join our weekly prosperity classes here.