In the growing world of yoga, it’s easy to find teachers who appear experienced online — but not all yoga instructors are properly trained or certified.
When you take a yoga class, you’re trusting someone to guide your body, your breath, and your energy. That’s why it’s essential to learn from a teacher who has completed a recognized, in-person Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) from a qualified and accredited school.

The Importance of Yoga Teacher CertificationYoga isn’t just about flexibility or strength — it’s a holistic practice involving anatomy, philosophy, mindfulness, and safe sequencing.
A certified yoga instructor has the education to guide students safely through poses, transitions, and breathwork, protecting both physical and emotional well-being.
When a teacher lacks formal education, they can unintentionally lead classes that create:

• Unsafe or awkward transitions between poses
• Strain or injury to joints, ligaments, or muscles
• Confusion around correct alignment and modifications

That’s why proper in-person yoga training is non-negotiable. A strong foundation in human movement, observation, and 

For thousands of years, Ayurveda has turned to herbs and spices as powerful remedies for health, balance, and longevity. Today, modern science is beginning to confirm many of these traditional uses.
Here are 12 Ayurvedic herbs and spices worth knowing:
1. Ashwagandha
Known as an adaptogen, ashwagandha may reduce anxiety, improve sleep, enhance muscle growth, boost memory, and support male fertility. Some studies also suggest benefits for lowering blood sugar and reducing inflammation.
2. Boswellia (Indian Frankincense)
Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, boswellia has been linked to reduced pain and stiffness in arthritis, better oral health, and improved digestion and breathing.
3–5. Triphala
A blend of amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Traditionally used for digestion, it may also support oral health and reduce inflammation. Some early studies suggest cancer-protective properties.
6. BrahmiOften called “food for the brain,” brahmi may enhance learning, memory, and focus while easing anxiety and ADHD symptoms. Its adaptogenic effects may also help the body cope with stress.
7. Cumin
Beyond flavor, cumin may support healthy cholesterol, balance blood sugar, and fight foodborne bacteria.

Yoga has evolved tremendously over the centuries. While many people today practice yoga primarily as a form of exercise, the roots of yoga run far deeper. Understanding the differences between traditional and modern yoga can help you unlock the full benefits of this ancient practice.

Modern Yoga: Fitness-Focused Practice
Modern yoga, often seen in gyms and fitness studios, emphasizes physical fitness. It focuses primarily on:

• Asanas (poses) for strength, flexibility, and balance
• Calories burned and weight management
• Physical conditioning akin to other forms of exercise

While modern yoga is excellent for maintaining a strong and flexible body, it often overlooks the philosophical and spiritual aspects that make yoga a holistic path to wellness.

Traditional Yoga -- A Complete Wellness System
Traditional yoga, as described in classical texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, is far more than just physical exercise. Its focus includes:

• Mind-Body Connection: Breathwork (pranayama), meditation, and mindfulness
• Lifestyle & Ethics: Principles like non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), and discipline (tapas)
• Holistic Health: Enhancing emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being alongside physical health

By embracing the philosophies of yoga, traditional practice supports:

• Stress reduction and mental clarity
• Balanced emotional health
• Longevity and vitality
• A deeper sense of purpose and self-awareness

Why Traditional Yoga Is Essential
Modern yoga may leave practitioners physically fit, but traditional yoga nurtures true wellness. The philosophy teaches us how to live, not just how to move. Integrating ethics, meditation, and mindfulness into your practice ensures that

Before your yoga session, or a quick belly filler after a workout is better than grabbing that baguel at the coffee shop. These creamy, dreamy, and undeniably delicious avocados are more than just a trendy toast-topper. Behind their smooth green glow lies a powerhouse of nutrients that do wonders for your heart, brain, skin, and more. Whether you're a guacamole enthusiast or just curious about what makes this fruit so special, here's why adding a little avocado to your day can go a long way. 

Avocados are packed with nutrients that benefit both your body, and mind. Whether it’s spread on your morning toast, chopped up into a salad, or squashed into a dip, it does more than just taste good. Here are a few reasons to add avocados into your diet if you haven’t already.

Heart-Healthy Fats – Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. These fats help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol, reducing your risk of heart disease.
Boosts Brain Function – Avocados support brain health and cognitive function. Consistently eating them may improve memory and concentration, making them a good  snack for students and/or professors. 
Packed with Fiber – One avocado contains around 10 grams of fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. This makes avocados a great food for managing weight and reducing unhealthy snacking.
Loaded with Vitamins and Antioxidants – Avocados provide a wide range of vitamins such as Vitamin K and C. They're also full of antioxidants, which protect your eyes and keep your skin glowing.
Supports a Healthy Lifestyle – Whether you're eating clean, managing your weight, or just trying to feel more energized, avocados can help. Their combination of nutrients supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall wellness.

So aside from the benefits, these little guys are easy to snack on, simply slice open and store in plastic wrap after adding a bit of lemon to avoid browning. you can sprinkle salt, paprika or a dash of everything but the bagel and grab a spoon and you got yourself a hearty and yes, filling post workout snack or an anytime bite!

 If you’ve ever typed “how to choose yoga teacher training” into Google, you already know how overwhelming the options can be. From Bali retreats to local weekend intensives, there are thousands of programs promising transformation. But how do you know which is the best yoga teacher training program for you — one that not only leads to certification but also honors the authentic roots of yoga?
The truth is, not all yoga schools are created equal. Choosing the wrong program can leave you feeling unprepared, uncertified, or disconnected from the deeper philosophy of yoga. This guide will help you avoid the most common mistakes and choose a yoga teacher training program that truly supports your growth.
1. Look Closely at the CurriculumMany programs focus heavily on physical postures but skim over the philosophy, meditation, pranayama, and anatomy. A well-rounded curriculum should include:

• Asana (postures) with proper alignment, modifications, and sequencing.
• Yoga philosophy rooted in the Yoga Sutras and classical texts.
• Pranayama and meditation to deepen your inner practice.
• Anatomy and physiology relevant to yoga practice.
• Teaching methodology so you feel confident guiding others.

When researching programs, ask yourself: Will this training give me both the skills to teach and the wisdom to live yoga off the mat?
2. Explore the Philosophy and Lineage Yoga is much more than a fitness trend — it’s a spiritual science passed down for thousands of years. A strong teacher training will 

Let’s be real, summer has a way of softening our structure. With longer days, later nights, and the kids off school, it’s easy to slip into slow, unstructured mornings that leave you feeling behind before the day even starts.
But just a few intentional habits in the morning can completely shift your energy—helping you stay motivated, uplifted, and even a little ahead (yes, even during summer break). Whether you're working, parenting, or trying to make time for yourself, these 5 simple morning hacks will help you beat the summer slump and set a positive tone for the rest of your day.

With school out and summer in full swing, daily routines can quickly slide into chaos, or at my place,  couch time. Whether you're juggling summer camp drop-offs, navigating long days with the kids at home, or trying to keep everyone off screens, daily exercise becomes more essential than ever. Sometimes yoga isn't always possible but even just 30 minutes of movement a day can be a game-changer, for your body, your mental well-being, and your energy to keep up with summer’s demands.
​It’s not just about staying fit—it’s about staying grounded, clear-headed, and emotionally balanced during a season that’s as exhausting as it is exciting.