theme

Peek Into the Week: 7/27/15

Unsurprisingly, my motivation to finally post a #PeekIntoTheWeek came in the form of a full-grown, slightly domesticated black cat and a good decision. On Saturday, I used my best judgement to postpone a hike up Volcano Mountain to practice outdoor yoga in front of my apartment. Typically, I am eager to do everything; this is one of my best and worst traits. So, I made the good decision to practice patience and take care of myself before I set off for my journey. 

During a gentle, seated twist, Midnight appeared. He came over to say hello and then continued on his way. A few moments later, he returned. I went inside to get him some water, as a gesture of my appreciation. Black cats are my good omen. Every time I see a black cat, I feel as if it is the universe telling me I am moving in the right direction and everything is more than okay. 

Ecstatically, Midnight casually walked right into my apartment. He explored the inside of my abode and stayed to eat a few treats my neighbor brought over and a little bit of cheese. We ended up relaxing and snuggling on the floor of my apartment for the better part of a half hour. As we left for our hike, my heart was full and I hoped to see him again some day soon. 

After hiking for hours in the hot, desert sun, I slept like a baby. Typically, I never sleep past 7AM; on Sunday, I slept until 8. A few moments after I woke up, I faintly heard Midnight and bolted out of bed. When I opened my door, Midnight walked right in and stayed with me the entire morning until I left for the day. In between bouts of playfulness, he peacefully sprawled out on my floor, he was content and at home, I was happy. 

I understand this misaligns with societal superstitions, but Midnight’s presence this weekend majorly motivated me and sparked my desire to take the time to do the “good” things in life. For the last two years, I have selected a theme or an intention for my class sequences and I use the concept as personal inspiration throughout the week. For months and months, I have wanted to openly share these ideas; simply because sharing is positive and powerful and what you put out there, you get back one-thousand fold. 

Therefore, moving forward, I plan to take the time to share a #PeekIntoTheWeek every Monday. It may or may not include a full back story like today’s post; but it will always include my intention and peak posture for the week, as well as a list of classes I teach. 

Peek into the Week:

Intention:

Take time to listen and linger. Find your expression, even if that means a few extra moments in the transition and doing things a bit different than everyone else. If you give it time, the answers and the inspiration will come. Avoid rushing to “finish”, take each move uniquely. 

Peak Pose:

In all level’s classes, we will practice baby crow and tripod with option for variation. In Level Two classes, we will work in to the variation of tripod headstand pictured above. 

I chose this variation because it’s different and being different is a lot of fun. 

Classes for Week of 7/27/15:

BIRD ROCK YOGA

Sunday 5:30PM All Level Vinyasa 

Monday 6:45PM 75 MIN All Level Vinyasa

THE LITTLE YOGA STUDIO

Friday 5:30PM All Level Vinyasa

COREPOWER YOGA SAN DIEGO

Monday

2:30PM C2 North Park

4PM C1.5 North Park

Tuesday

6:00AM C2 North Park

8:45AM Sculpt Mission Valley

1:30PM C2 Mission Valley 

5:30PM HPF North Park

Wednesday

9AM C2 North Park

10:30AM C1 North Park

Thursday

7:15AM C2 Hillcrest 

2:00PM BootCamp Class Pacific Beach

3:30PM Sculpt Pacific Beach

Friday

9:30AM C2 Point Loma 

Finding Comfort in Discomfort

As a mindful hedonist, I understand the value of presence and purpose, but I naturally default to passionately pursuing life’s greatest pleasures. Documented in many of the stories I’ve shared on JuliaSparkman.com, even as a hedonist, I have grown to appreciate the challenges and adversities I’ve faced, as they have led me to many of my best moments — spiritually, personally, and professionally. While teaching, I frequently say, “find comfort in your discomfort”, as students practice deep hip-openers and other challenging postures, like savasana. 

What Great Thing Am I Working Towards?

What Great Thing Am I Working Towards?

I love traveling abroad. From the rush of the unknown to the exhilaration of new sights and sounds, I come alive in foreign places. Over the years, I’ve learned the best part about traveling abroad is the lack of connection. Wifi is generously available, but you still spend a lot of time offline, in-transit and walking around. I love the experience of being present without technological distractions. 

Do What Makes You Feel Good

Do What Makes You Feel Good

I typically sit down with a clear idea and effortlessly write. Today, I had no idea where to start. I woke up tired and irritable. I did not feel well and my thoughts were foggy.  For once, I was not ready to share. Instead of forcing it or allowing myself to feel discouraged, I decided to practice what I preach: I let go of what I thought I “should” do and I took care of myself. I napped, I ate healthy, filling foods, I swam in the ocean, and I relaxed.