SOUTH PALM BEACH COUNTY
Your Local Guide to Vibrant Living
HOLIDAY 2017
OGA IN LOVE WITH SOUTH FLORIDA
NAYA RAPPAPORT SHARES HER SPIRIT
PEACE IN A POD
FLOAT8 WELLNESS LOUNGE
YOUNG YOGIS
HALI JADE SCHNEIDER 11-YEAR-OLD TEACHER
Plus: SOMETHING BIG • NICE DAY FOR A GREEN WEDDING holiday 2017
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Boca Raton, Florida
954.461.4367 www.zendenyogaschool.com
Not Only The Wealthy Deserve To Be Healthy YOGA SCHOOL We offer 200 hr ytt and 300 hr ytt
along with continuing education credits in Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, SUP Yoga, and Children’s Yoga.
Tuition starting at $2300 - lodging included!
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Quick Reset Detox • 3 night / 4 day Liver and Kidney Detox • 7 nights / 8 days Liver, Kidney and Candida Detox • 14 nights / 15 day Retreats begin at $600 and include acupuncture, massage, yoga, meditation and nutritionally packed smoothies for lunch and dinner. holiday 2017
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CONTENTS
TODAYSYOGA Holiday 2017
cover stories
10 Loving Life in South Florida
Naya Rappaport was born in New Jersey, raised in the Dominican Republic, and settled in South Florida in 2009. This energetic yogini is also a talented professional photographer who majored in photography at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale.
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Young Yogis Flourish
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Nice Day For a Green Wedding
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Boca Raton, FL resident Hali Jade Schneider is eleven years old and was recently certified as the youngest female yoga instructor in the country.
Vegan bride and groom? Your family and friends can still enjoy your wedding! We heard from local yoga teacher, Elyssa Schwartz, on how she and her fiancé, Jeffrey, are creating their own planet-friendly, happy wedding.
plus . . . 9 13 14 17 18 22 4
Something Big! Peace in a Pod Balance at Any Age Fashion • Style Food • Nutrition Namaste
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FROM THE EDITOR
TODAYSYOGA Executive Editor Julie Murphy
Managing Editor Lynzy Ferris
Director of Photography Sean Egiziano
2018 Create Your Own Happy
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know I’m not the only one who’s ready to do a big Ctrl-Alt-Delete on 2017, as I fall over myself to usher 2018 through the door. It’s been a bit of an intense year, worldwide. I don’t need to name the trending hash tags and many unfathomable events you’ve watched unfold this year. However, at the same time, I’m thrilled to celebrate the many good things that happened. While they don’t delete the bad, they do show us that for every dark moment, there is always light and hope. Like that spectacular total solar eclipse in August, the moon may have blocked out the entire disc of the sun, but a corona of light still streamed outward in shimmering bright specks and flares. Need some examples of 2017 happiness and hope? • Fifteen states so far have joined the U.S. Climate Alliance, committing to uphold the Paris accord, along with the rest of the world • 101 endangered pangolins destined for the black market were rescued in Indonesia (Google “pangolin” for a snapshot of Adorable) • Zimbabwe is no longer ruled by Robert Mugabe • Plastic bags were banned in 100 coastal areas down the long stretch of Chile’s coastline • People across the U.S. tie scarves around trees in parks this winter, to help the homeless and others in need If we look for good, we’ll find it—and not just in the external world. The ancient wisdom traditions such as yoga teach us that there is always an inner light of hope, no matter what the external presents. As we approach 2018, instead of a list of overwhelming New Year’s resolutions which often expire by February, every day we can create our own Happy, through the power of intention. Consciously choose attitudes and behaviors that lead to happiness. Simple acts of kindness. Sleep well. Move more. Smile more. Breathe. Get outside in nature.
For Editorial:
call 844 - 600 - YOGA e-mail: editorial@TodaysYoga.com
Regional Advertising Kylee Treyz • kylee@TodaysYoga.com Kelly McCabe • kelly@TodaysYoga.com Fern L. Conn • fern@TodaysYoga.com Pedro Luna • pedro@TodaysYoga.com
For Advertising:
call 844 - 600 - YOGA Production Manager Jenny Diaz jenny@TodaysYoga.com
For Circulation:
call 844 - 600 - YOGA e-mail: delivery@TodaysYoga.com Printed on Recycled content 10% (post - consumer)
published by
TODAYS YOGA, INC President
Jeffrey (JD) Diaz
Vice-President David Ramoy
It really is the season to be jolly. Fling open your windows, welcome in that heavenly Florida winter weather and hum a little fa-la-la-la-la. Here’s to making 2018 so good you’ll want to hit Ctrl-C in 12 months’ time to repeat it. Happy holidays and a joyful New Year to you.
Namaste,
455 NE 5th Avenue, Suite D-151 Delray Beach, Florida 33483 844 - 600 - YOGA Today’s Yoga Magazine is published monthly and distributed to over 300 locations throughout Florida’s South Palm Beach County Entire contents of this publication is copyright 2017 Todays Yoga, Inc., all rights reserved and may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher.
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ODDZ • ENDZ Saluting Our Military on Veterans Day
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n Veterans Day 2017, community leaders, veterans, volunteers and those dedicated to the mission of Connected Warriors filled the Boca Raton Marriott ballroom to capacity for an evening of inspiration and celebration as we honored our military. Connected Warriors provides evidence-based traumaconscious yoga free of charge to thousands of Vets and their families in 24 states and on 14 military bases. These brave individuals learn how to cope with the often devastating side effects of service. Out of every dollar raised, $.92 cents goes into programming. The evening began with the Presentation of Colors by Boca Delray Division-US Navy Sea Cadets, a moving performance of the National Anthem and God Bless America by The Young Singers of the Palm Beaches. Honorary hosts were Mary Ann Morgan-Fried and Gregory Fried, and guests enjoyed performances by the talented Dave Kemp, DTO Music and Acro Yogis. “The event raised almost $200,000 which will enable us to expand the reach of this dynamic practice to wherever Left to Right: Master Sergeant Lee Beckler USMC (Ret); Matthew MacVane, USMC; Judy Weaver, Founder; Major General William Mercurio, US Army (Ret); Sandee MacVane; Lt. Commander Kenneth Bingham US the need exists,” said Judy Weaver, Founder and CEO of Connected Warriors. To learn more about Connected Warriors Navy (Ret); Capt Fanancy Anzalone, US Navy (Ret); Sergeant First Class Jason McKeogh, US Army visit www.connectedwarriors.org
Delray Beach Open’s VolleyGirls Bring Charisma
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or the past 26 years, the Delray Beach Open has seen many stars come through its pearly, white gates at the Delray Beach Stadium and Tennis Center. And yet, even tennis’ most-revered legends could not charmingly court the Delray Beach Open like its charismatic promotional team—the VolleyGirls. The iconic figurines represent the tournament on-site at the sponsors’ private parties, at PR engagements with players on-air in TV and radio, as well as appearances in the Delray Beach community and Palm Beach County. The VolleyGirls must be at least 18 years of age, sporty, electric, professional, engaging and charming. The ‘Girls’ colorfully diverse backgrounds appropriately adorn the tournament, as some past and current ‘Girls’ hail from Colombia, Brazil, Morocco, Germany, Romania, Yugoslavia, and are home to South Florida’s playgrounds in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties. “When we started the VolleyGirl campaign in 2007, we thought it would be popular, but never realized the extent to which these girls became the iconic figures of the event they did,” said John Butler, Executive Director. “Now they’ve received national recognition, endorsement deals with incredible fashion boutiques, fitness and spa memberships…It’s all just exploded in such a fantastic way. They’ve become an ideal representation of the event.” If you or someone you know might be a good fit for the program, please feel free to pass the link along and inquire for more details by emailing Marlena MHall@ YellowTennisBall. com.
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Join the party train on New Year’s Eve at Boston’s on the Beach
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elcome 2018 at Boston’s on the Beach. The New Year’s Eve party at the Delray Beach restaurant promises enticing edibles and lively entertainment by Victor Wainwright and The Train. Wainwright’s career began over a decade ago with a rock ’n’ roll, honky-tonk style. Since then, he has broadened his musical scope to include virtually every category of the blues. The awardwinning singer, songwriter, and piano player has a genuine passion for entertaining, and delivers a dynamic, crowd-pleasing performance. Guests can party all night from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., and revel in two different buffets. Enjoy the dinner buffet from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., toast the new year with champagne at midnight, then wrap up the fun with a breakfast buffet. Tickets start at $80, and party favors and gratuity are included. For tickets go to www.eventbrite.com and search “Bostons”.
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very New Year’s Day, over 2,000 people roll out their yoga mats at the Mizner Park Amphitheater to participate in Something BIG, a FREE yoga class sponsored and led by local Yoga icon, Leslie Glickman and her husband Andy Glickman, owners of Yoga Journey in Boca Raton. Aimed at elevating the community through mindful connection, this yoga class is accompanied by international recording artist, DJ Drez and streamed LIVE for Global Participation.
This year, Leslie has also included many well-known South Florida yoga teachers and studios to participate. These partners represent studios from Miami to Jupiter: The Cozy Yogi, Kula Yoga Shala, 305 Yoga, PS Yoga Studios, Connected Warriors, Breathe Salt & Yoga, I Love Yoga, Yoga Connection, Kate Yoga and Bizzy Yogi. Something BIG features major sponsors, lululemon athletica and Farmer’s Table, other sponsors include Raw Juce, Trend Tea, Zico and Overseas Water plus several participating vendors for an outdoor marketplace. The Something BIG Marketplace sponsors and vendors will provide FREE beverages, healthy food, teas and juices, along with the latest and greatest yoga products and gifts for sale. Yoga, Music and Community all combine to create the perfect kick-off for 2018. For more information and to pre-register early, visit www.SomethingBIG2018.com
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Loving Life in South Florida
Naya Rappaport
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aya Rappaport was born in New Jersey, raised in the Dominican Republic, and settled in South Florida in 2009. This energetic yogini is also a talented professional photographer who majored in photography at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. Naya is both the person in front of and behind the lens for these self-portrait photos in Today’s Yoga Magazine! Her happy energy is contagious and we love her joy for her South Florida yoga life… Naya, tell us a little about the path you’ve taken so far as a student and teacher of yoga My mom schlepped me to my first yoga class at age nine and for 16 years I practiced during holidays and summer vacation. In 2012 I set up a secret goal that I wanted to crush ... little did I know this goal would become a lifelong commitment. My goal was to practice yoga every day. At the time this meant asana practice and the only yoga I practiced was the Bikram yoga style. I memorized the poses and any time I couldn’t go to the studio I’d practice at home. I trained for almost a year with the intention of competing and winning the Bikram Yoga Championship. I laugh now at that memory, because it’s totally not about the physical...but that was my motivation for a passionate and dedicated practice. The hot 26 flow opened the gates to more. I’m now a Vinyasa yoga teacher and I appreciate many styles and methods of yoga—Yin, Kundalini, Ashtanga, Raja, breathwork, seated meditation, partner yoga and more. Yoga changed me physically, but most importantly it has changed me mentally. Where are some of your favorite places to practice yoga I’m a borderline yoga addict at this point. I love practicing on and off the mat. Anywhere and everywhere. I guess my favorite time and place would be during really difficult situations when I just want to burst into rage and tears... but instead I breathe and meditate. What do you love most about our local yoga community I love the local yoga community! We practice together to feel a sense of unity and wholeness and I love the smiles and sound of laughter and
chatter before class. Our local yogis also practice the art of conscious living; respecting their surroundings and environment. My all time favorite is the friendships we make and how the yoga community keeps an open heart and mind. As a Florida “import”, where do you love to take people when they come to visit? I enjoy taking friends and family to Downtown Boca and Delray, the beach, Improv comedy club, Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Butterfly World, and Delray Marketplace. And that’s just to name a few...I love Florida. What’s your favorite thing about winter in Florida? I love that I can still go to the beach in winter! Besides the weather, I admire the lights and decor around our palm trees and the holiday boat parade is pretty neat to watch. My ultimate favorite event to kick off the new year is “Something Big 2018.” The largest free yoga class in south Florida, on January 1. Hundreds of yoga practitioners gather to practice in Mizner Amphitheater. It’s a great way to start the year! What’s your life’s philosophy “Don’t Take Anything Personally. Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream.”—Don Miguel Ruiz My head is filled with quotes and clichés that I now hold dearly. I continue to read, grow, and change every day. Naya’s 2018 Yoga Events: January 6: Yoga Expo — Los Angeles, CA January 21: Hot Yoga Home — Pompano, FL, Backbend workshop February 23 & 24: Yogaloft — Playa del Carmen Yoga, Mexico, Backbend & Inversion workshops March: Acro Yoga Workshop, Partner Yoga with Naya and Salila Thuy April 14-20: 7-day Beach Yoga Retreat in Acapulco, Mexico More info at www.nayitavp.com and Instagram @nayitavp Photography: NayaPhotography.com and @NayaPhotography
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The Eight Limb Path to live your life as a yogi I
Ishvara Pranidhana
The Art of Surrender
s this the most awake you’ve ever been? Please, take a moment to think about this question. I don’t necessarily mean this very moment but rather in the bigger scope of your life. Are you more awake, more aware, than you were three years ago or ten years ago?
by Scott Feinberg
I imagine for most of us, the answer is yes. Although we may not perceive our spiritual maturation happening daily, we are indeed growing and gaining new insights into the nature of being human. We are becoming more awake. By extension of this recognition we can say that if this is the most awake we’ve ever been, that it is also the least awake we will ever be. An interesting idea to consider, yes? Yet despite this, we form endless attachments to future outcomes. If this is the least awake we’ll ever be, why would we cling to desires born from this limited awareness? Understanding this is the key to detachment, which we can think of as surrendering the illusion of control. Rather than clinging to a particular way something or someone “could” or “should” be, can we instead save our energy to meet life without these formulated preconceptions getting in the way? If we can trust in our ability to skillfully adapt to what arises in the moment, we can get out of our own way. It’s here that we move into direct relationship with reality rather than the mental constructs we’ve built around it.
Scott Feinberg counts his blessings as a dad, writer, entrepreneur and dedicated yogi. He is the founder of Kula Yoga Shala, a donation-based yoga and healing arts collaborative in Jupiter, FL www.KulaYogaShala. com. Scott’s teachings are steeped in the merging of the philosophical with the practical, to establish a strong connection to one’s inmost essence which can then become the foundation from which we act in the world. Instagram @mysticmuse108
In the yoga dharma, this inner process is given the name Ishvara Pranidhana. Most often, we see this teaching defined as surrendering to God. I find this definition tends to complicate and distort things a bit. How do each of us interpret God differently? How do we differ in our interpretation of surrendering to God? I believe the core teaching resides not in our determination of what constitutes God, but rather how to access the inner awareness which allows us to relax our unconscious drive to control life. In other words, we can come into the experience of our divinity, not by intellectualizing what we are, but by relinquishing who we are not. See, we may disagree about what constitutes Self, God, Absolute Reality, etc… but we can all practice letting go of the unconscious urge to self identify with our passing moods and thoughts as well as our more deeply rooted beliefs about ourselves and each other.
photo Lori Griffith
When Surrender Equals Freedom Often the idea of surrender is misperceived as letting go of, or renouncing, life. Here, the subtlety of the word “surrender” implies not a complacency nor a shifting into passivity, but rather an observation of our relationship to our own mental constructs and letting go of binding to them. When we release our attachments to these internal narratives, we experience a shift into expansiveness. This expansiveness is the very nature of being, itself. Many of the yoga teachings posit that the very seat of the soul is at one with everyone else and with the unchanging ground of being. So when we contact this place within ourselves, we touch the divine within us, bringing us into the actual felt experience of Ishvara Pranidhana. We simply need to observe who we are being when we are doing what we are doing. This is the key to surrender—availing to us a spaciousness of being which seeks not to control but simply to be at home within ourselves, regardless of our circumstances. This is freedom. Namaste.
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photo by Jason Koerner
Peace in a Pod
Interview by Julie Murphy
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ho knew that my new favorite yoga mat would be in the form of an egg-shaped flotation pod. I’m claustrophobic and I don’t have a spare 90 minutes to spend on doing nothing, yet here I was, in my birthday suit, sealed in an isolation tank and LOVING it. It felt natural to begin my session at Float8 Wellness Lounge with an experimental yoga pose; a gentle twist, fully suspended in the salt water. I let my body get heavy and felt the kind of therapeutic support that goes beyond even the bliss of restorative or yin yoga. Then I floated on my back and embraced Float8’s “Pure Nothing” concept, drifting off into a deeply tranquil state, described as “liquid meditation” by a Float8 fan. Destiny Beck, co-owner of Float8 Wellness Lounge, tells us more about the flotation haven she and her husband, Matt, have created in Deerfield Beach, FL. What are the main benefits of floating? By removing all sensory input, the mind is able to relax into a deep meditative state allowing it to recover from the strains of our reactive society. The float tank provides homeostasis for the body, balancing hormones and regulating blood pressure. Chronic pain can melt away. Some complementary health therapies can be perceived as “woowoo”—is flotation weird and wacky? There is nothing weird or wacky about “nothing.” Floating has been practiced since the ’70s, and it’s very popular on the West Coast, as well as in the UK, Australia, Canada. Going back much further than that, monks, sages, and seekers have sought isolation for thousands of years. Float8 provides a modern method to an ancient endeavor. Today, the Laureate Institute for Brain Research in Tulsa, OK has invested in a state-of-the-art float facility to conduct studies on the benefits of flotation therapy. The Navy and Air Force are studying the effects on
educational training and recovery, and pro athletes like Tom Brady and Steph Curry float in order to improve focus and speed up recovery. What are some breakthroughs that your clients have experienced? As pregnant women come closer to full-term, the weight of the baby causes stress on their joints and muscles. We had a woman who was 39 weeks pregnant float and she told me she finds it virtually impossible to get comfortable, but the float pod took that all away. We also hosted free floats for veterans and active military as part of our “Weightless Warrior” program, and one of our vets left this amazing message in our float thoughts journal: “I have been forcing myself to stay busy. Afraid of being alone. Afraid of being stuck with my own thoughts. I was running away from my past and who I was after 10 years of military service in a combat M.O.S. It was easier to run. Easier to move fast and not…think. I had no idea that for so long I was doing it all wrong. I’ve taken my blinders off now and I’ve decided to REALLY LIVE! Don’t think. Just swim, dance, fly, climb, cry, laugh, jump, sing, love, smile, search, grow… and BE!” This message brought tears to my eyes, to think that we’re able to have such a profound impact. What would your customers say they love about your business? Aside from the float experience, people love the vibe. We have a super chill meditation studio full of interesting books, and a lounge with some amazing artwork thanks to our friends at the Moksha Family Arts Collective in Miami and artists like Gina White, Jason Koerner and MarcPaperScissor. More info: www.float8ion.com 616 SE 10th Street in Deerfield Beach • Tel. 754-666-3588 holiday 2017
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Balance, At Any Age By LeslieJean Anderson
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few years ago, after a series of frightful falls, I was advised that yoga might improve my balance and ease my stiffening muscles. But due to a long-standing back injury, I could not practice floor yoga. After a couple more tumbles and close calls, I realized I needed something more to help me stay on my feet. It dawned on me that for almost three years I’d been taking courses and spending most of my waking hours at my computer. My muscles had grown so stiff and unresponsive, I often felt frozen in my chair. Then, if I got off balance for some reason, I’d fall like a tree! For elderly people, this is a tremendous threat to well-being. Then I discovered Chair Yoga classes right in my community at Quail Ridge. I knew I could do this! And I experienced a feeling of well-being immediately. I quickly fell in love with the breathing techniques to clear my head. I felt the various exercises lengthen my cramped muscles, and the twisting poses realign my spine. When I began to break into a sweat holding some of the poses, I realized that I was also getting a workout! It was reassuring that at my age I didn’t have to do high-impact exercises to get results. When friends and neighbors began to notice a spring in my step I told them about the benefits of Chair Yoga and I introduced them to our yoga teacher. A number of us have now adopted her training on a daily basis in
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our homes, and I am grateful for how yoga infuses our bodies with many health benefits, including balance. Recently, I stumbled in the middle of an intersection and started to fall flat on my face. It had happened before—suddenly off balance, and crashing to the ground, injured and bleeding. But this time I scrambled my feet underneath my elderly bones, and continued upright to the other side of the street—slightly embarrassed, but safe and sound. Immediately, I gave thanks for my recent Yoga training! Namaste.
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acqueline Pfeffer, fondly known as Jax, is a well-known face in the Delray/Boca community and her enthusiasm for healthy living is contagious. She’s the owner of JuiceBuzz in Downtown Delray Beach, where she and her team provide delicious juices and healthy treats. Today’s Yoga chatted to Jax about the environment she’s created, based on her mantra, “Food is medicine”. Tell us how JuiceBuzz came to be? JuiceBuzz was co-created as a business idea between myself and two others five years ago. My background however is in hospitality and as a yoga practitioner and certified teacher I just ate this way: “healthy“. So it was a perfect fit to answer the question, “What’s next?” in my life at the time. What makes JuiceBuzz a local favorite? Well we were, and really still are, the only dedicated standalone organic cold-press juice bar in Delray Beach. Meaning yes, other smoothie and açai bowl shops have popped up, but they’re not necessarily carrying the same message as JuiceBuzz. I think it’s a local favorite because we really care about quality and integrity—not only of the products that we deliver but also service, and I mean good customer service. We have a 60 to 70% return clientele and my employees and I for the most part know our regulars’ names and their favorites. We also might know their personal life circumstances and family. So I guess you could say we’re a healthy Cheers without a Norm and without snow ;)
What attracted you to opening a location in Delray Beach? Well I moved to Delray Beach from San Diego, CA in 2006 and it took me about a year to fall in love so I’m glad to say that it’s been a 10-year love affair. The small beach town feel was attractive to me and although it’s growing and changing it’s still my favorite place to be in the world. I call it my bubble. So I guess the stars were aligned and the Universe had my back that a location right in my backyard was available.
ART • CULTURE
Blended Thoughts from
Juice Buzz Also, at the time Delray only had Nutrition Cottage with a small juice bar, and I really feel that what we offered was different and there was a need waiting to be filled. Any plans for more JuiceBuzz locations in the future? It’s been discussed and I do go back-andforth with my personal answer, but to be honest I like having one small “mom and pop“ boutique shop. From what I understand, just because you have more business locations doesn’t mean you make more money. More restaurants/ franchises can lead to more headaches and stress. I would hate to lose the quality and integrity on which I pride myself and JuiceBuzz. Although it would be great to spread the love as much as possible! I guess more people will just have to come and get it at JuiceBuzz in downtown Delray Beach! What’s your life’s philosophy or favorite guiding quote? Now that’s a tough one! I have a few—”Be the change you wish to see in the world”, will have to be my go to. Reason being, I believe I cannot control anyone or anything but my thoughts and reactions. Therefore, I am constantly changing, evolving. So my life is a reflection of that. I know deep in my core I am the same person I have been and will always be, but I just get better with age and time. Experience is fuel for wisdom. As I learn and grow, I hope to inspire others so they know they can do the same and that we are all in this together. I would love to see the world just blasting love in every way all over the place so that means I have to BLAST love in any way that I can. I would love to see peace in the world so that means I need to be at peace within me. It seems pretty simple, right?! Yea, but it takes work. Visit JuiceBuzz 6 NE 5th Avenue in Delray Beach www.juicebuzzdelray.com FB:@juicebuzzdelray IG: @juicebuzzdelray
Small Children’s Book Has Big Ambitions
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ife coach and yoga therapist Melissa Pellicci never planned to be a children’s book author, but on a spiritual retreat in Peru, the story came to her as an inspiration. She has written an engaging and beautiful book to help children regain joy, and trust in nature and the universe. In the process, she saw herself and her inner child embodied in Lourdes, the narrator, who without fear, reaches out to creatures different than her with no agenda other than to become friends and play. Lourdes represents innocence; the fluteplaying spider represents disability and fear of those who are “different”; and the talking cat reveals loneliness. Lourdes’ open heart and desire to be friends, transcends rejection and fear and bonds her newfound community. Her dinner host represents a guardian angel. Lourdes is hope, trusting in her intuition and the nurturing of African-inspired Mother Earth to carry her on safe and caring ground. Romanian artist, Alexandra Zgondea, who met Pellicci on her Peruvian retreat, shares her vision and brings Best Friends Forest to life. Vibrant illustrations reflect a colorful blooming world where trees and flowers have joyful faces. Comfort foods, cuddly creatures and huggable Mother Earth make the book embraceable. Zgondea, who lives in a forest, says, “In Romania, nature is our life teacher, showing us how to live effortlessly and grow gracefully. Mother Earth is our anti-depressant. As a new mother to a young son, I want him to see a path to happiness and feeling safe with a book like Best Friends Forest.” Proceeds from the book will help the non-profit Best Friends Forest Foundation to build playgrounds to help “heal neighborhoods, one green space at a time.” The first playground is planned for Palm Beach County and will be created by Jupiter-based Leathers & Associates. Best Friends Forest also interfaces with non-profit, One Tree Planted; $1 from each book purchased will plant a tree and begin new, real forests. “We have experienced humanity’s ‘deforestation’,” states Pellicci, “Our Best Friends Forest program will help rebuild communities, creating a template to be replicated worldwide.” Best Friends Forest is available at $19.99 at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and by direct download at www.bestfriendsforest.com
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Young YogiS
Hali Jade Schneider and her Dad, Ira Ohm
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oca Raton, FL resident Hali Jade Schneider is eleven years old and was recently certified as the youngest female yoga instructor in the country. She has joined a growing trend of younger and younger yogis, as many teens and tweens are taking to their mats and becoming certified yoga instructors. Her proud father and stepmom, Ira Ohm and Valerie Leeds, are owners and facilitators of Zen Den Yoga School where Hali Jade completed her Yoga Alliance RYT-200 certification along with a group of adult students. The yoga school in Boca Raton hosts a worldwide student body every six weeks. Hali Jade says she prefers to teach Sivananda Hatha flow over the Ashtangainspired Vinyasa flow, because it’s slower. As she explains, her mind is always going and this helps her relax a bit. She can tell you the whereabouts of her seven chakras, renounce her ego’s chatter, and demonstrate Kapalabhati Pranayama (fire breathing) with the best of yoga instructors out there. She also acknowledges two hundred hours was a lot of work and she did give up being in one or two musicals this summer while studying a different kind of script to teach her yoga classes. How did she do it ... “A lot of practice, focus, and drinking these nutritious shakes and green juices every day!” What’s next for Hali Jade? She’s an avid actress, and just started sixth grade at Bak Middle School of the Arts, in West Palm Beach. She is a bit curious to see how her newly-found skills can support her passion for acting, and vice versa; letting her fun and comedic personality bring light and ease during classes at Zen Den Yoga School.
photo by Erik Lieux
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Zen Den Yoga School www.zendenyogaschool.com bocayogi@gmail.com Tel: 954-461-4367
FASHION • STYLE
Kindhood: The Perfect Gift For Your Little Water Baby Looking forward to hitting the water, no matter the season? Whether you and your little water babies are planning a holiday vacation to surf the waves at the beach, splash around in the pool, ski the slopes and then hit the hot tub, or even just play after bath time, wrap them in a Kindhood poncho towel this holiday! Designed to keep your kiddo moving, these unique poncho towels are engineered to be super soft and comfortable, yet flexible and quick-drying. The team behind Kindhood prides themselves on being water people. Lakes, beaches, rivers, pools – you name it, they have their best memories playing in the water. The only problem came when it was time to get out. With their kids wanting to get dry and warm as quickly as possible so they could continue to play, they would wrap them up tight in towels only to watch them sit there stuck – unable to move, eat or play. Kids just aren’t designed that way, and that’s how Kindhood was born! kindhood.co
How to Update Your Wardrobe Without Overhauling Your Entire Closet
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un floral prints, pops of color and luxury materials are all making appearances in footwear, accessories and ready-to-wear items this fall. Fashion lovers will have the freedom to update their wardrobe by selecting a few key pieces – without feeling the need to overhaul their entire closets. Nichole Duck, buyer for shoe retailer Off Broadway Shoe Warehouse, is sharing her list of top essentials to update outfits, ensuring they are on-trend and ready for the transition to cooler weather. • Ultra-Feminine Blouses: Women’s blouses containing classic feminine touches are fresh, fun and flirty this season, with updated features such as oversized ruffles, bell sleeves and pretty one-shouldered styles. Try an off-the-shoulder top with a favorite pair of frayed vintage jeans and neutral over-the-knee boots. Sky-high boots are ontrend in a big way.
Mokuyobi Rules Whether you want to
add some rad style to your day-to-day or need the ultimate throwback gift, score patches, bags, hats and more with the quirky, colorful designs from Mokuyobi! Feelin’ fancy? Perk up your outfit with these printed button downs! With nostalgic, screen printed designs like Cheese Doodle, Keyboard Jam, and Hover Reef, you’ll be ready to hop in your rocketship and take a blast to the past. Mad about those midnight snacks? Try on the Vintage Treat Button Down for a perfectly popcorn themed print in collaboration with Lucky Horse Press! mokuyobi.com
• Navy as a Neutral: While shades of black and tan are still a much-needed staple in every woman’s closet for the fall season, other popular colors are boldly challenging the traditional neutral color palette. Brown and navy have always been a popular color combination. To add some warmth on cool autumn days, consider a pair of camel colored boots with a slim profile to accentuate a navy pencil skirt or shirt dress. • Versatile Prints and Embellishments: A fresh flower arrangement may not first come to mind when we think of the leaves
changing colors. However, this season’s apparel offerings are virtually overflowing with pretty floral patterns and designs that are so lovely and unexpected, they may inspire us all to host fabulous autumn garden parties. Other embellishments, such as lace, embroidery and iridescent accents that sparkle and shine, even during daytime, will be evident in finishing details to enhance any outfit for a variety of occasions. Try a pair of perforated cut out booties with a stacked heel to complete the look. • Velvet Crush: Designs cut from this rich fabric will be seen in a variety of gorgeous jewel tones. The decadent material can be infused with other popular fall items, like pleated gold skirts, sheer materials and such footwear as a pair of effortlessly chic mules with a hint of sparkle. • Booties’ Big Moment: While more casualinspired footwear is definitely still on trend, Duck says it’s time to make room in the closet for more booties, especially as they feature an endless variety in features. Think lace-up detail or perforated patterns -- heel heights and toe shape. For more ideas on how to venture into the fall season in style, visit offbroadwayshoes. com. They have styles to accommodate a range of fashionistas -- from top designers and name brands. No matter which trends fit your personal style, you can make fall fashion simple by updating your entire wardrobe with just a few new pieces for the season. (StatePoint) holiday 2017
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FOOD • NUTRITION
How to Celebrate with Sparkling Wine this Holiday Season With the holidays here, it is time to celebrate, and sparkling wines go hand-in-hand with special occasions. If you are looking for something new to serve this year, consider swapping your usual bubbles for Cava, a delicious and wallet-friendly Spanish sparkling wine that is made using the same traditional methods as Champagne.
ROASTED GARLIC AND PARSNIP VEGAN GRAVY By Whole Foods Makes 2 cups, about 10 to 12 servings This unusual gravy gets wonderful depth of flavor and natural sweetness from roasted garlic and parsnip. You can prepare it up to three days ahead, refrigerate it and reheat it just before serving.
INGREDIENTS • 1 large bulb garlic • 1 medium (3 1/2-ounce) parsnip, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices • 1/3 cup blanched slivered almonds • 1 1/4 cup mushroom broth (made from mushroom bouillon/base) or vegetable broth • 4 teaspoons liquid aminos (such as Bragg) • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
METHOD Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut garlic head in half horizontally to expose cloves. Wrap securely in a square of aluminum foil and place on an oven rack. Roast until cloves are golden and very soft, about 1 hour. Cool slightly, and then unwrap and squeeze garlic flesh from papery white husk. (You should have about 3 tablespoons.) Meanwhile, place parsnip in a small baking pan lined with parchment paper and roast until soft and browned, about 30 minutes, stirring once or twice during roasting. Place almonds in a blender, pour in 1/2 cup boiling water and let soak 30 minutes.
One Cava producer offering
top-quality sparkling wines is Poema. Their wines are made from sustainably farmed grapes, and are available at affordable prices. Their Poema Cava Brut (SRP: $12.99) is a fine choice for your cocktail hour. Its fresh citrus and granny smith apple aromas and toasty notes are a good match with light tapas, oysters and seafood. It also makes for delicious sparkling cocktails, such as the Belle of the Ball. Ingredients: • 4-ounces Poema Cava Brut • 1/2-ounce Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur • A splash of orange liqueur
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Directions: Chill Cava and Pear Liqueur beforehand. Then, pour both ingredients into a flute. Top off with a splash of orange liqueur. For those who like things a little bit sweeter, there is Poema’s Cava Extra Dry (SRP: $12.99). Served as an aperitif or paired with passed appetizers and starters, its crisp aromas of green apples, limestone, and spring flowers offer a trace of sweetness that is well balanced by a crisp finish. Whether you are having a formal celebration or an impromptu casual party, be sure to celebrate the right way this holiday season -- with sparkling wines that won’t disappoint your guests. (StatePoint)
Add garlic, parsnip, broth, aminos, thyme and pepper to the blender. Blend until very smooth, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a medium saucepan and cook at a bare simmer 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Add more broth or water if gravy is too thick.
NUTRITIONAL INFO Per Serving: Serving size: about 1/4 cup, 35 calories (15 from fat), 1.5g total fat, 140mg sodium, 4g carbohydrates, (1 g dietary fiber, 1g sugar), 1g protein.
Happy Holidays … No, Really! By Dindy Yokel
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ity sidewalks, city sidewalks filled with way too many holiday shoppers. Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, get the heck out of my way. All this holiday glee, bright lights and togetherness can leave one longing for an oh so Silent Night. Back away from Angry Birds, a third glass of eggnog or another piece of cake and give yourself the gift of remembering your yoga and meditation off the mat to ease the holiday stress.
is nothing short of miraculous amid the Sugarplums Dancing in Your Head.
Make a list, check it twice and then leave it on your desk and pause for a few good breaths. Better yet a few rounds of Nadi Shodhana— aka Alternate Nostril Breathing—will do wonders. Sharing this practice with those you love—who are wreaking havoc on your otherwise peaceful home, is a great gift and the results are immediate and magical.
Pick up any of Thích Nhất Hạnh’s or Pema Chödrön’s books for meditation inspiration. As Hanh writes, “Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile.”
The holiday season gives us an opportunity to incorporate our yoga or meditation practice into our daily lives. Move the Advent Calendar over and hang up something that reminds you to take a few moments for yourself.
Cooking or standing in line is the perfect time to practice Tree Pose (Vrksasana) and gentle breathing. Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose and a few gentle twists can fit into anyone’s day—set an alarm to remind you that it’s time to show love and compassion for yourself.
A recent Harvard study stated that 10 to 12 minutes of yoga or mindfulness meditation is sufficient to achieve results, alleviate anxiety and create calm. Dr. Ronald Siegel, an assistant clinical professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School, has made guided recordings of mindfulness meditation practices available for free at www.mindfulness-solution. com—worth checking out. Or download the Calm app where 10-minute meditations are led by Tamara Levitt. Her soothing voice
Mid-January will be here before you know it. Gifts unwrapped and cherished or returned. Leftovers in the freezer and houseguests on their merry way. Often, we are left bloated, our bank accounts—fiscal, physical and spiritual— are drained and we feel short tempered and out of sorts. Take a moment and regain your connection with yourself and your practice. Pause, reflect, connect with the amazing beginning of a new year and a new commitment to staying happy and healthy through yoga, mindfulness and meditation. Ring in 2018 with a deep sense of self. This is indeed the best gift you can bring to others and yourself. Happy Holidays! A yoga practitioner for more than 20 years, Dindy Yokel received her RYT-200 certification in May 2016. She has been published in many publications, such as National Geographic and Arts & Opinion. Dindy is the founder and CEO of DindyCo PR & Marketing, an internationally recognized boutique PR and marketing agency.
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photo by Alex Lytle Design
Nice Day for a
Green Wedding
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egan bride and groom? Your family and friends can still enjoy your wedding! We heard from local yoga teacher, Elyssa Schwartz, on how she and her fiancé, Jeffrey, are creating their own planet-friendly, happy wedding.
Why this kind of wedding? As a vegan for nearly a decade, I couldn’t imagine celebrating our love with dead animals on the tables—it just seemed like an oxymoron to me. So, my recently-vegan fiancé and I agreed on a plant-based menu for our April 2018 wedding. Our guests know I follow a clean diet fueled by an abundance of fruit and vegetables and I did not want to sacrifice my personal beliefs to satisfy the appetite of others. It’s just one night. Plus, everyone loves the food I make :) Give us some ideas on how to create a “green” wedding The average American wedding produces 600 pounds of trash! My fiancé and I embrace a lowwaste lifestyle, doing our best to avoid single-use items and products in non-recyclable packaging. Our invitations were printed on seed paper so they can be planted to bloom pretty flowers, and we suggested recyclable newspaper or brown packing paper for wrapping gifts. Our decor will consist of mostly upcycled glass bottles and jars, plus wood from fallen trees found at Jeffrey’s family’s West Virgina property. The only “disposable” items are the 100% biodegradable napkins and plates which will be collected afterwards by our caterer and composted at Shadowood Farm. And what’s on the menu? Our guests can explore and enjoy just ONE plant-based meal amongst other, familiar foods. Bob Statler, chef and owner of Food Island, is catering our vibrant, colorful and sattvic menu; perfect to fuel our guests with energy to party all night long! All ingredients are local and Bob describes the veggies as “beyond organic” from Shadowood farm which focuses on nourishment of the soil. The venue, Sons & Daughters Farm and Winery, is an organic farm, serving home-brewed kombucha and “hangover-free” wine with minimal carbon footprint, plus signature garden cocktails. Contact info: Elyssa on Instagram @rawkismet Sons & Daughters Farm and Winery www.sd-farm.com Chef Bob Statler, Food Island, tel. 561-676-6469 bob@foodislandtruck.com Shadowood Farm for local vegetables www.shadowoodfarm.com Wedding site, The Knot (www.theknot.com) also shares eco-friendly wedding ideas
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MENU Hors d’oeuvres * Stuffed crimini mushrooms with sunflower seed cheese, topped with chives and Italian black summer truffle * Mini veggie quesadillas with local tomato salsa, mushrooms, olives, shallots and macadamia creme * House-made falafel and hummus * Veggie bouquet station with a trio of vegan dipping sauces. Includes lots of fun accents including large carrots with greens coming out of glass jars, like a farm stand! Appetizers * Locally baked vegan bread with Earth Balance spread * Probiotic vitality bowl (gluten-free): local baby kale, baby chard, baby spinach and baby beet tops with popped quinoa, roasted garlic, house-made kimchi and toasted sesame seeds tossed in a house-made misosesame vinaigrette. * Local heart of palm salad: champagne/ Madagascar vanilla bean vinaigrette with heirloom cherry tomatoes, currants, micro cilantro, scallions and toasted pumpkin seeds. Entrées * Purple cabbage rollatini stuffed with pistachio “cheese” drizzled with champagne parsley creme * Local handmade delicata squash agnolotti with cashew-macadamia-roasted-garlicAlfredo and fried sage * Wild foraged (hand-harvested) morel mushroom lasagne with caramelized shallots and roasted garlic-cashew cheese * Grilled Romanesco with goddess sauce and baby nasturtiums (edible flowers) * Stuffed local poblano sweet peppers with fresh garbanzo beans, spinach, shallots, heirloom tomatoes, heirloom farro and grilled Romanesco sauce. Desserts We’re thinking about adorable mini doughnuts and cupcakes from Blondie’s Vegan Bakery and Cafe. Thanks for sharing the details of your happy day with us, Elyssa, and congrats to you and Jeffrey!
You’re welcome! I wanted to let other brides know that this type of wedding is attainable, even when entertaining ALL of your closest friends and family. We love the planet we live in, and this is reflected in our joyful celebration!
NATURE • HABITAT
Tips to Make the Most of Your Next Outdoor Adventure
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pending time enjoying nature is good for the body and mind, helping to reduce stress, increase focus and provide opportunities for physical activity, say studies. Unfortunately, our busy schedules sometimes don’t allow us to get outside as often as we’d like. But there is no time like the present to plan your next outdoor adventure. As you make your preparations, consider these tips for making the most of your trip. Get Informed Visiting a new place? Learn more about the area, investigating its natural and social histories before you hit the trail, river route or campsite. You’ll be more likely to identify rock types and plant and animal species with a bit of knowledge. This can also help you understand and appreciate what you are experiencing with greater depth. Use Tech Tools New tech gear is augmenting the outdoor experience for both casual adventurers and hardcore enthusiasts. For example, the Smart Outdoor Watch WSD-F20 from Casio has a rugged build, low power consumption GPS, is water resistant and features dedicated apps for outdoor activities. If downloaded prior to your journey, full color maps can be used offline. And because it offers a range of tools that can be used independent of your smartphone, including an altimeter, barometer, thermometer and compass, it frees up users to fully enjoy their adventures. Other features include a Location Memory app, which enables you to customize maps with markers and text so you can revisit otherwise unmarked spots, such as a great viewpoint or fishing spot. Be Prepared It’s hard to be at one with nature when nature itself is making you
photo - Galyna Andrushko - Fotolia.com
miserable. So be prepared for all kinds of weather and climate conditions. If you are camping, patch or replace tents that are worn or torn and bring a tarp for extra protection. Check the weather report for temperature, precipitation and other factors and pack the proper clothing and sleeping bag accordingly. Make sure socks and shoes or hiking boots are in good shape so that long hikes don’t cause you any undue pain. And of course, don’t leave civilization without a first aid kit, water, sunscreen and insect repellent. With a bit of extra preparation, you can take your outdoor adventures higher and farther than ever before. (StatePoint)
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Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.� MOTHER TERESA
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