Did you cringe just reading the title? It happens to me, too. But the truth is that if we are willing to devote the time and (yes, I said it) discipline it requires to develop a regular yoga practice, improve our meditation, and reduce stress in our lives than we should also keep our bodies running efficiently through proper nutrition.

It's not just about maintaining a proper weight. Eating well allows the body's natural energy channels to flow smoothly and in the right directions. Eating foods that don't support our inherent needs disrupts the functions we were born to perform. When we eat "bad" or unhealthy foods, we digest poorly, we feel sluggish, and we can't think straight.

It doesn't mean that the occasional burrito or piece of king cake is forbidden - of course not! It just means that our daily eating habits, just like our meditation and yoga habits, can become a regular practice. Eating well doesn't have to be boring, either. Try one of our monthly recipes, or a new cookbook, and surprise yourself.

"Eating Well" means something different to everyone. Meditate on it and see what resonates with you. Have you been considering a vegetarian or vegan menu? Or perhaps you feel led to limit or choose different carbohydrates (as I'm doing). There are many options, and one will work best for you and your family. Best of luck finding it!

To get you started, here are some great tips, including my favorite: shop the perimeter of the grocery store. Good luck!

In my sunroom, sitting next to our water fountain, is a beautiful, smooth little white stone with a single word printed on it: meditate. It is my small reminder from my dear friend Karen to spend just a few minutes every day in silence.

I have to admit that I don't meditate every day. I'd like to. Meditation is a beautiful way to escape the craziness of my world for a short time and reflect upon the more important aspects of life. Like why I'm here, what God's purpose is for me, and how I can walk the path more fully. Sometimes, it's just an opportunity to embrace the many blessings I have, so that the day to day poo doesn't wear me down. And sometimes ... well, sometimes it is just silence.

On February 28^th, Karen is hosting an Intro to Meditation workshop, to allow you to experience the beauty of meditation, understand it more fully, and find some ways to practice it at home regularly.

I was not raised Catholic, but I love the idea of Lent. So this year I've decided that, rather than give something up for 40 days, I'm going to devote myself to God for 40 days by spending just 5 minutes every day in meditation and reflection. A time for God, and myself.

Here are some things I've read on how to meditation that will help you develop a daily practice of your own.

Honoring the Earth and minimizing our impact upon it is a very "yogi" thing to do. Knowing that we are giving back to what is provided us creates a sense of well-being and balance that extends beyond the daily grind. It saves money, time and energy. It creates a better world for our children. And it just plain feels good.

Read more »