Zen Squirrel

The progress of the Zen Squirrel Yoga Studio & Shop, starting with how we purchased the space. Thanks to Jason Burkholder Realtor for encouraging us through the purchase. You’re the best in the business. Forever amazed by Fawn Hill Hop Yard for Jeff’s expert carpentry skills. Truly becoming the yoga boutique that we envisioned.

Meditation does not require a blank mind. That is sleeping. Meditation teaches us to focus the mind, be aware of its fluctuations and turn inward. It is a process that teaches us to listen without judgement. Can’t do 20 minutes? Try for 2. What’s your biggest meditation challenge?

Join me and the lovely yoga community from The Healing Habitat - a yoga and wellness studio as we explore rituals to support deep rest.

I learned a new way to knot a mala & even made my own tassel. Thinking this might be a really cool workshop in the future, or maybe I’ll just make a few for the Zen Squirrel shop. Japa (using a mala for mantra meditation) is a great way to ground yourself into your practice & you can even get rid of that pesky timer on your phone. I know exactly how long 108 repetitions of my mantra takes. Thoughts? Comments? @ Zen Squirrel

Want to build better immunity & vitality? The Ayurvedic term for this is Ojas. Ayurveda teaches that after our food builds the 7 body tissues, the final end product is ojas. Some foods like almonds are better at this process than others. Soaking raw almonds overnight and peeling them makes them more easily digestible. Starting the day with 5-10 peeled, soaked almonds can help you build ojas (vitality, immunity, glowing skin, good senses). Almonds are full of healthy fats, protein and calcium. Try adding them to your daily routine.

Yoga wall class giveaway

Group practices are moving to zoom. Schedule and links will be posted by the end of the day Sunday. Practice online for the low cost of $8 per class. Studio will reopen for group practices when I feel it is safe to do so. Until then, private masked & distant mat, wall & Ayurvedic wellness sessions available.

How are you doing? Feeling heavy & stuck or hot tempered lately? Ayurveda teaches us simple tools for healing. Always follow the rule like attracts like and opposites create balance. Today I created a little balance with a playful hike. Take even a moment to enjoy the natural world around you, move your body, and breathe fresh air. Bonus points if you do something that makes you smile.

Facebook Live Yoga Saturday at 9 On the Zen Squirrel Private groupFacebook Live Yoga Saturday at 9 On the Zen Squirrel Private group

When my dear & motivating friend @plentifulpath gave her upbeat take on So Hum (I am that), it got me thinking about the meditation practice I’ve been avoiding. Definitely listen to what she has to say if you need a little motivation. For me, it landed a bit different. I realized how much tension I’ve been holding in my body. To the point of causing back pain. I was reminded as to the power of my daily meditation. Even. 10 minutes allows me to settle down and check in. It makes such a difference. For me, So Hum is about finding that quiet inner space and disconnecting from all the labels of I am (even the positive ones). I’m feeling better than I have in a few weeks. Interested in your perspective. How do you remind yourself who you really are?

Yoga this Saturday at 10, on Facebook live in the Zen Squirrel Private Group (link in comments)Yoga this Saturday at 10, on Facebook live in the Zen Squirrel Private Group (link in comments)

Legs up the wall on the rope wall is simply magic. A lot of people tend to hold tension in our lower backs. Poor posture or excess sitting exaggerates the experience. A short rope wall practice that finishes in legs up the wall allows me to find length through my spine, strengthen, release and find neutral. My back is happy. I feel ready to take on the day or sit more comfortably in meditation.

Teacher space for The Great Yoga Wall which allows access to a deeper experience of alignment as well as therapeutic benefits such as supported inversions and backbends. I am beyond thrilled to bring this practice to my little village. I highly recommend My carpenter and friend, Jeff from Fawn Hill Hop Yard for custom projects like this one.

Got golden milk powder? Here are some healthy, delicious new ways to use it. Don’t have it? The article recommends a spice mix to use as an alternative. https://paavaniayurveda.com//10-alternative-ways-to-enjoy-

Sun vs moon salutations

Something special is coming to Stoudtburg Village. The Great Yoga Wall. I fell in love with wall yoga 7 years ago & haven’t looked back. The practice is appropriate for beginners and experienced students alike. Look for 2 hour beginner wall classes when the governor gives the go ahead. The first wall class will be a private class for one very lucky winner. To earn entries, share this video and/or comment with a photo of what you did for your wellness today. Thanks to our am...azing carpenter Jeff from Fawn Hill Hop Yard. I’m already contemplating ordering the rest of the spaces . We love your work! Look Heart Chakra Design I made a Tic Tok

Now that all gyms, yoga studios, fitness facilities are shut down, we are inspired to offer a little drawing with an incentive to pay attention to your wellness. The winner of our contest gets to break in the first yoga wall class (when Jeff from Fawn Hill Hop Yard has it finished & installed). The winner can choose a private session or invite a few friends for a group of 2-3. Basically, a point = one entry. Earn more points to increase your chances of winning. Contest finis...hes when we are allowed to reopen for business. 2 points - join the Zen Squirrel Private Group. 3 points - tag 2 friends in comments & invite them to participate 1 point - each day you can earn a point if you take a photo of something you did to keep yourself well and share it as a comment on this facebook page. This could be doing a yoga practice, working out, taking a walk, making a healthy meal, taking a nap, meditating...

9am Facebook live yoga on the Zen Squirrel private group today.

Today’s practice was all about how we show up and take up space. How can you breathe more fully? How can use your strong legs to lengthen your torso? Covid has us practicing virtually but I can’t wait to see you in person. Stay healthy & keep practicing.

30 minutes Tuesday Practice.

Save money and give someone the gift of tranquility while supporting 4 local, woman owned businesses. This giftset includes one Lavender Rose Bath Bomb, one Zen Squirrel Handmade Soy Wax Candle and one bottle of Lavender Hydrosol. Pickup at or shop or free Delivery within a 5 mile radius of our studio/shop. No other discounts apply with this offer. Available while supplies last. https://zensquirrel.guru/products/p/relaxinggiftset

With Covid numbers rising and the holidays upon us, we have chosen to put a pause on in person group yoga until 2021. Free yoga will be offered via Facebook Live. To access the classes, please join the Zen Squirrel Private Group - the classes will go live from there, and a schedule will be posted every Saturday. Donations to GRASSROOT MOVEMENT IN NEPAL (GMIN) are requested if you feel inspired to give a contribution in exchange for the classes. The organization builds schools, provides teachers, distributes food, and helps families rebuild homes that were devastated in the 2015 earthquake. The US $ goes a long way in Nepal. Here is a link to their website https://www.gmin.us

Join us Saturday morning for a socially distant, masked yoga class designed to keep you feeling strong, calm and grounded. www.zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/singlesaturdayclass

This weekend, I am proud to join Emilie from The Healing Habitat for a virtual Ayurvedic cooking class. Follow the link to join us. https://thehealinghabitat.tulasoftware.com/external_form

As covid cases spike in PA , statewide mask mandates are going into effect this week . This rule is regardless of distance. In order to keep practicing together, we ask you to wear a mask the entire time you are in the studio and shop. Please stay home if you or someone in your household is ill, feverish or under suspicion of covid.

Ginger is warming and clearing. It is a top ayurvedic recommendation for clearing congestion & building the digestive fire. Try these 3 ways to incorporate ginger into your wellness routine. https://kripalu.org//healing-properties-ginger-and-3-ways-

30 minutes to jump start your day

The green space in our studio window just got a bit more vibrant. We visited Take Root and found these 2 beauties. Our new air plant is housed in a globe made by by Nancy Miller.

Thursday nights are for Candlelit Yoga Practice. Brought to you with delightful calming scents from our exclusive line by @lifemomentscandleco - support yourself with some peace this holiday season. #candlelityoga

Tonight’s slow flow class will feature candlelight featuring our own custom made candles. 2 spaces remain. Message me for the link of head to our website under group yoga

Want a great way to start the weekend? If you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi looking for individual attention, our socially distanced Saturday class is small enough to get just what you're looking for. https://zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/singlesaturdayclass

Join an inspiring small group for a candlelit evening yoga session this Thursday. Single class available www.zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/single-yoga-class-2

Could you use a beginner friendly yoga class today? Today's class will be traditional hatha style and is easily modified to a variety of ability levels. Get strong, stretch, and leave with that relaxed post yoga feeling! www.zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/single-yoga-class

Zen Squirrel now carries our own line of hand poured soy based candles! Blends to leave you feeling grounded or peaceful. $15 each

Just picked up our own line of local handmade soy wax candles. If you are within 5 miles of our shop and buy online, we can arrange drop off or pickup. Link in profile.

Outdoor Shopping on the plaza at Stoudtburg Village from 1-4 today. Ryke Martin Kris Witman Beth Tysiachney Martin

Never tried yoga? Want a movement practice where you learn to tune in to your own needs and leave feeling balanced in mind, body & spirit? Try a yoga class with Beth at Zen Squirrel. Series classes also available at a reduced rate. Series link in comments. www.zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/singlesaturdayclass

Kapha is made of earth and water element. Kapha predominant people tend to have emotions & physical attributes that include stable, soft, smooth, heavy, stable, sticky, cold & sweet. At their best, they can be strong, content & loving. Know anyone like this? Tag a friend.

2020 survival guide: take some time just to fill your own cup. What balances your energy? Put down your electric device and do it! For me, it’s getting out in the woods then doing a yoga practice. Maybe you pray, meditate or garden. To support your wellbeing, take some time to nourish yourself every day. Make your wellbeing a priority and you’ll be able to serve other areas of your life more completely. If you’re like me, you’ve been reminded to vote, daily, multiple times. You know your do your civic duty, but don’t forget to take care of yourself in the process. #vote2020 #hike #pennsylvaniawoods #fallbeauty #fallhike #ayurvedalifestyle #ayurveda #ayurvedaeveryday @ Adamstown, Pennsylvania

Handmade soy candles coming soon....

Want to try before you buy a full month? Single Classes are now available! Thursday, Nov 5 @ 6 -7 pm and Tuesday, Nov 3 4-5 pm. See link in comments for Tuesday class. As always, month long pass holders get priority placement, a discounted rate, videos with notification they can't make class (and 10% off our products all November). www.zensquirrel.guru/yoga-classes/p/single-yoga-class-2

Zen Squirrel in Stoudtburg Village offers so much more than yoga! We are excited to have our storefront up and running. Current shopping hours are before/after class or text 717-405-7511 for an appointment. Our current favorite item is this custom made Walnut Serving Tray made by our favorite carpenter, Jeff of Fawn Hill Hop Yard. We can accept a limited supply of preorders (pick your accent color). Message with questions or stop us when you see us strolling around the village. https://zensquirrel.guru/products/p/woodtraypreorder

November Sale & Classes - https://mailchi.mp/1406dc288ffc/november-sale-classes

November group yoga classes are on sale now! New for November, buy a class series to secure your spot every week and save some money or buy a single class if space is available (single classes go on sale Oct 31). As always, with a package you will get a video with advanced notice that you can't make it a class (1 hour notice please). https://zensquirrel.guru/small-group-yoga

The shelf we’ve been talking about is finally finished! Thanks to Jeff of Fawn Hill Hop Yard for interpreting our vague idea and giving us what we wanted but didn’t know how to put into words (much less an actual product). If you’d like a piece of Jeff’s handiwork, we’ll be selling his beautiful wood serving trays in our shop.

You can now purchase yoga classes online! There is still space Tuesday 4-5 and Thursday 6-7. Classes are socially distant 6' apart and we practice in "pod" groups for safety reasons. https://zensquirrel.guru/small-group-yoga

So happy to offer personal and small group yoga to my community. Thanks for the kind words, Karla.

We can choose to evolve from our circumstances or become weighted down by them. When covid hit, many of us have chosen to emerge in new and profound ways. I have traded long commutes and endless running for working from home and building #ZenSquirrel Yoga & Wellness. I now take morning walks rather than experience coffee fueled road rage & speeding. I get to help others discover the path to self care and I am so grateful for this journey. We still have openings in October yoga classes as well as private yoga and Ayurvedic Wellness appointments are available. @ Stoudtburg Village

Yoga has been my oasis in times of struggle. Applying the principles of Ayurveda to class on Saturday, we had a grounding heart opening class that ended in a metta (loving kindness) meditation. Whatever your affiliation, the world is feeling so many emotions right now. We all struggle. If you’re interested in finding a moment of peace, October classes are on sale now. See my Facebook page or message me for details. #cocalicoyoga #ephratapa #adamstownpa #stoudtburgvillage #berkscounty #lancastercounty #lancasteryoga #ephratayoga #yogateacher #yogastudio #ayurveda

October yoga series classes in our Stoudtburg Village studio are available now! Text 717-405-7511 for payment instructions to reserve your spot. We have space for 6 socially distant participants in each session. Masks required until class begins, then it is optional. Can’t make a class? No problem, I’ll happily provide a recording. Thursday class is an all levels class focused on the fundamentals of yoga. All participants are welcome. This class offers a good foundation for a lifelong practice.

October Yoga schedule coming soon. I have space for 6 socially distant participants per class. The invitation went out to my mailing list tonight. If you’d like to receive the first updates, head to www.zensquirrel.guru to sign up to receive my monthly emails.

The weather should be perfect- come to yoga on the plaza in Stoudtburg Village

I’ve been experiencing tightness around my sacrum lately, and using these 2 balls (or tennis balls in a sock) combined with a reclining pigeon pose did wonders for my hip and pelvic muscles. Try & let me know what you think. #aloboutrangeofmotion #yogateacher #hips #pigeonpose #pelvis #tightback #lowback #sijoints #yoga @ Zen Squirrel

This pose takes practice, many people are challenged at the prospect of just resting for 5 minutes. If settling down at the end of yoga class presents a challenge, the benefits may inspire you. During shavasana, the nervous system moves from a stimulated state to the rest and digest state. The body cools and has a chance to settle into anatomical neutral. The fluctuations mind can settle and begin to calm. Shavasana gives the practice time to settle into your body.

You can do things that feel impossible! For me that always meant the elusive comfortable handstand. This split leg work is showing me what muscles are missing from my inversion practice. I recently saw @yogagems taking on handstands and felt inspired to teach my body to be comfortable upside down. In 21.5 weeks I turn 47 and for my birthday I will see a breakthrough. Until then I will post weekly updates on my handstand journey. Looking to be wall free at 47... this is my starting point. Do you have any handstand tips? Please share - @plentifulpath @princesschampionashley I’m lookin at you...

Making it a little easier for people to find the studio space. Thanks Moe Boyer of Heart Chakra Design and Horst Signs, it’s perfect.

Folding forward is balancing to the vata energy associated with the fall season and times of change/transition. This week, my classes explored the movements of the hips and forward folds. Interested in finding strength, flexibility, balance and a calm mind? I still have one space left in the September Beginner/Basics series, Thursday 6-7 pm. Message me for details on how to claim your spot.

What I really love about Ayurveda is that it teaches you to become self aware, learning how the mind and body interact with nature. It teaches that we can live a balanced life and notice subtle changes before they become health issues. I meet people where they are and help them develop customized wellness practices & rituals to support health and wellbeing.

Ever have to sit too long in your day to day life? Triangle pose (#trikonasana) is a great way to release tension from the neck and shoulders, stretch and strengthen the hips, and restore neutral alignment to the torso and hip flexors. Many of us become so focused on teaching the ground that we may miss the part of the pose that feels the best. I encourage everyone to explore length in all 4 sides of the torso (front, back, lower & lifted sides). How deep can you bend without compromising the sensation of balance in your torso?

I see yoga props everywhere. Missing my yoga wall classes, but don’t have a wall in my new space yet. In the quiet of my morning walk, this felt calming & lengthening, but it’s just not the same. @happy.silence_art - let’s talk about how you installed your home wall. In the mean time, this wasn’t a horrible alternative.

The transitions of the season can leave us feeling scattered, worried and sleepless. Ayurveda teaches us to balance those tendencies with a grounding practice. Got 5 minutes? Try it out & let me know what you think.