Mindful Life
Sober Girls Around the World
Healthy Routines during the “Back to School Season”
Carolyn Clark, Deb Collins & Juliet Rogers
Little Steps to... Understanding the Power of our Vagus Nerve
MindfulLife
A Note from Alex
OnTaylorSwift,Vienna, theFeministMovement&Yoga
I am currently writing this note to all of you from the Vienna International Airport This last week has been a whirlwind. If you follow me on social media, you'll know that I spontaneously decided to fly to Vienna for the Taylor Swift concert I am probably one of the biggest Swifties that I know For the last 1 5 years as the tour travelled the world, I was refusing to buy tickets because it just felt like it was too expensive to travel internationally for a concert. As the concert has toured around the world, I've felt more and more like I was missing out by not going, so I last minute booked a flight to Vienna.
I kind of had a gut feeling that things were going to go wrong I kept telling people that I was convinced my ticket was a scam. The interesting thing was one of my friends who I was with also said he had a gut feeling for almost a year about this event and kept thinking it was something else that would go wrong - like missing the train, the tickets not working, etc. Yoga Sutra 3.3 speaks to the intuition we strengthen through quieting the mind When we quiet the mind through our practices, we can hear the whisper of the heart. “Pratibhad-vaa sarvam. ”
On Wednesday night, we got the news All concerts were cancelled in Vienna due to a terrorist attack threat. As I learn more and more about the attack that was planned, I get more and more convinced that I narrowly escaped my death
There are two spiritual practices that I connected this moment to from the Sutras. (Sutra 1.12“Abhyasa Vairagya Abhyam Tan Nirodhah”) Abhyasa is putting in the work - devotion and dedication - and Vairagya is detachment from the outcome. Abhyasa is wise effort, and Vairagya is wise concentration So we do our best, and we let it go So I did everything I could to make this concert happen, but I was also detached from whether or not it turned out the way I wanted. And when we cultivate a loving heart through our practice, we are protected from the suffering caused by unskillful mind states
Mindful Life Magazine A Note from Alex
On the first day that Taylor Swift was cancelled, my friends suggested that we walk down to Corneliusgasse Street in downtown Vienna We thought we were just visiting a friendship bracelet tree and didn’t realize it had become a spontaneous crowd of hundreds of Swifties. I saw a boy in a Reputation costume, little kids who were coming up to me and trading friendship bracelets, and moms who were crying. Later on, as the day progressed, and we had our mini Taylor Swift party, I met dads who were trying to save the day by holding space for their preteen daughters’ tears and running around to help us find speakers so that we could run a fake concert, whilst teenage girls shouted “fuck the patriarchy” with me when that song lyric came on (their parents too) I saw people of every nationality People from India, people from the Middle East, people from North America, people from Austria, coming together I saw men proposing to each other during ‘Love Story ’ I saw policemen wearing friendship bracelets. I saw Viennese people making posters, handing out drinks, shouting “ we support you ” from their windows. I was emotional, and I couldn’t figure out why.
As I come to the end of my #unprecedentedtimes week in Vienna, Austria, I’ve come to the following conclusion I think coming to a Taylor Swift concert (for me) isn’t actually about seeing Taylor Swift live. It’s about healing and being part of a safe space for girls, women and queer people And it’s not just for women and queer people - it’s also for dads, brothers, partners, friends and allies to hold space for the experience too It’s about feeling seen and heard and understood and supported by them, and by each other. And I do believe that is why there is so much hate towards Swifties right now Because women and queer people and our allies are mobilizing and connecting and walking beside each other worldwide in a way that possibly hasn’t been seen before
If you don’t follow Taylor Swift’s journey and don’t know why this feminist aspect of her story is so big, I invite you to watch the documentary Miss Americana, which covers so many important moments: from overcoming slut shaming to taking back her music to winning a lawsuit with $1 after being sexually assaulted From voicing her political opinions to defying the stereotype that “good girls” are just nice Her dance team, band and back up singers represent all ethnicities, sexualities, body types and ages, and every single person who sees the show can see themselves in one of them As she has evolved over her journey She has started to represent the feminist movement in her actions and song lyrics So I realized this weekend that the whole Swiftie thing right now is no longer just about her. It's so much bigger than that It’s about how she is empowering
Mindful Life Magazine
A Note from Alex
women and queer people to do the same and bringing in dads, partners, allies and friends into it, too And I think for people who don’t want to see this movement happening, for whatever reason, that’s what they hate.
I realized that the Swiftie community, the Yoga Community and the Sober Community share a lot in common These communities are all about compassion, kindness and belonging Often, we have leaders within these communities who organize and create these spaces for us to connect in. But what I discovered this week is that we don’t actually need Taylor Swift or a guru to do any of this. She wasn’t here in Vienna, and we still made this whole experience happen for each other Maybe on a bigger scale. Taylor Swift has facilitated this movement and brought together this community, absolutely She deserves every bit of credit for her amazing work She lit the match But the movement remains within every single one of us at this concert and all her fans around the world. She lit the match, and now we can carry the torch.
Yoga Sutra 1 26 reads “ sa esa purvesam api guruh kalena anavacchedat. ” It speaks to how sometimes in yoga, we can get lost idealizing a teacher or guru. We look up to a teacher for answers and wisdom. But in reality, no teacher should be our idol or guru Because attaining union with an inner guru, an inner guide, the universe, this force - THIS is the goal of yoga.
The guru is not within Taylor Swift - it’s within all of us. And this weekend, we saw this to be true Yes, Taylor Swift brought this together She initiated this movement. She may have lit the match - but we carried the torch. The legacy is there and cannot be undone - no matter what. And we can continue to carry the legacy whether or not we ’ re at a Taylor Swift concert - or within the presence of a guru, or teacher, for the rest of our lives
Love, Alex
SoberGirlYoga
Available Sept 5, 2024
“Sober Yoga Girl is a phenomenal, must-read memoir!
Not only does Alex McRobert pour her heart and soul into each and every page that she has written (which makes this book just as beautiful and special as she is ❤ ), but it is tremendously helpful to anyone who has ever struggled with alcohol, mental health or any issue involving dependence
It gives light and hope to those of us who have struggled in life or known darkness �� !”
~Sarah Millman
Mindful Life Magazine
A Note from the Editor
Even though I am sitting down to write this “Note from the Editor” at a time when the very first issue of The Mindful Life magazine is pretty close to being ready for publication, I don’t think that it has actually sunk in for me yet that Alex McRobert has hired me to be the
editor of an actual magazine However, I suppose that getting a hardcopy of the first issue delivered to my home may help with that realization a little bit…
(And by the way, you, too, can order hardcopies of the magazine by visiting themindfullifepractice.com/shop)!
In December of 2023, Alex asked me if I could look over her memoir, Sober Yoga Girl, to provide her with any feedback, and it was in that moment, that our writing partnership truly began! As both an English and a Spanish major in college, writing has always been something that I have enjoyed, and Alex quickly hired me to be her third editor It was a tremendous honor to help Alex with her very first book I am SO deeply excited for Alex to be able to share her story with the world when her memoir comes out on September 5, 2024
As a result of this recent writing partnership, when Alex started mentioning that she was considering hiring someone to help her to restart Sober Yoga Girls magazine – which was to be rebranded as The Mindful Life magazine to reflect the increasing diversity of The Mindful Life Practice’s community – my interest was piqued After all, Alex had already helped me to reconnect with my writing skills through our recent book editing adventure. Additionally, like so many of us, I have been a huge fan of Sober Yoga Girls magazine from its inception, as I love how it has served as a visual reminder of everything that has taken place in the MLPC in a given time period. I have also enjoyed all of the very useful articles that it has contained, which have related to such topics as yoga, mental health and sobriety I mentioned to Alex that I might like to help with working on the magazine, and things advanced rather quickly from there!
The Mindful Life Practice is truly a community that has meant more to me than words can express As many community members know, I have participated in the majority of Alex’s programs (although I am fortunate that she keeps adding new ones so that I can continue
A Note from the
to participate in more!) -including the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training I have also participated in two, life-changing yoga retreats with Alex in Mexico, and I was a teaching assistant during the 200Hour YTT this past summer in Bali. I have learned an immense amount from both Alex and other MLP community members in terms of knowledge about yoga, healing and personal growth And I have also had the opportunity to contribute to the community by offering both yoga classes and classes that explore yoga philosophy
There was a moment during our time in Bali this summer when Alex was leading a “Loving Kindness” meditation, and she asked us to think about a time when we were loved unconditionally It was in that moment that I realized that MLPC has provided that unconditional love for me And so, I consider it a great honor to be able to help record the memories of such a phenomenal community through the publication of this magazine.
With love and perhaps a little too much excitement,
~Sarah
Introducing Alexandra McRobert’s Memoir... Sober Yoga Girl
Sober Yoga Girl: Five reasons why this memoir needs to be a part of your personal book collection Yoga Around the World: Checking-in with Former YTT Graduates
Table of Contents
In This Issue
Dear Sober Coach
with
TheMindfulLife
Magazine
Editor
Sarah Millman
Contributors
Jules Allen
Peggi Cooney
Alexandra McRobert
Sarah Millman
Julia Sadler
Sarah Thatcher
Sarah Williamson
You Belong Here
By Alex McRobert
Thissummer,wegotabrandnewshirtintheMerchshop!Thefrontoftheshirtsays“YouBelongHere ” Iwanttotell youthestorybehindthisitem
On the very first night of the July 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training, we talked about our fears One participant said “I wasreallynervousaboutfittingin,becauseonthelastretreatIwentonIjustdidn’tfeellikeIbelonged ”Iamthrowing noshadeontheretreatleaderwholedthatretreat….becausethatretreatleaderwasme.
I’mnotsurprisedthatparticipantfeltthewayshedidandIknew,foralotofreasons,thatthatretreatdidn’tliveupto my standards. Everyone still had a great time but I learned a lot from it to incorporate going forward. Building communitywasmyprimaryprioritygoingintothisYTT
After that participant said they felt they didn’t belong on my retreat, I led a meditation that night, and one of the phrasesthatcametomewas,“Youbelonghere ” Youbelonghere Andyouareloved
It is of my belief that it doesn’t matter what a teacher teaches you, it’s how they teach it It’s how they make you feel Andmynumberonepriorityonmyretreatsandtrainingsistocultivateasenseofbelonging
And so, this shirt was born #youbelonghere We all know how terrible it feels to feel like you ’ re not welcome somewhere,oryoudon’tfitin
So#youbelonghereisournewslogan ItmightjustbethetaglineoftheretreatcenterIonedayopen
Thank you, to the person who gave me that feedback This shirt will forever make me think of you We’re almost sold out of this shirt here in person in Bali, and you can order it online at www themindfullifepractice com/shop with internationalshipping
Student Interview
Carolyn Clark
By Sarah Millman
Meet Carolyn! An MLPC member from the UK!
Whether its practicing yoga in her home using one of the MLP’s on-demand videos, speaking at one of the Sober Girls Club meetings, participating in the 30 Hour Sober Curious Yoga Teacher Training or completing the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training, Carolyn has proved, time and time again, that she is actively involved in the Mindful Life Practice community.
I decided to interview Carolyn in order to learn a little bit more about her sober journey and her role as a sober coach, as well as the path that led her to pursue her Yoga Teacher Certification with the MLP this past summer in Bali, Indonesia. Here’s what she said…
Tell us a little bit about your background with sobriety.
I had my last alcoholic drink on the 31st of December of 2020. I was 58 years old and feeling sad, lonely, and generally lost I was unable to cope with my feelings of loss and grief after the death of my best friend at the end of 2016 followed by the death of my dear youngest brother, just 8 months later, in 2017. My brother had lost his battle with alcohol, and I was feeling ashamed that I was using alcohol to try to numb out my sadness I was in a real mess, so I decided to give myself a break from alcohol by trying “Dry January” to see how I felt at the end of the month
A few weeks later, I knew that I would be taking a much longer break from drinking and at around 6 months, I knew that I was not going to drink again At 9 months, I ‘outed’ myself on my social media accounts. I no longer felt the shame that I had been carrying
for years. I had found communities and shared my feelings with others on the same path, and I was feeling strong enough to talk about my sober journey. I became proudly sober
My professional career meant that I had 30 years of working in the field of cognitive behavioural therapy, but I wanted to learn more about the specialism of sobriety During my second year of sobriety, I qualified as a sober coach, and I added to my skillset by completing a second sober coaching award. I started my business of sober coaching and took semi-retirement from my full-time career.
Learn more about Carolyn’s coaching services by visiting https://www.carolynclark coaching.com.
Follow Carolyn on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sober happysixties, or reach out to her via email at hello@carolynclarkcoaching com
When did you first become involved with The Mindful Life Practice? What experiences did you have with the MLPC prior to enrolling in the YTT program this past summer?
During my first year of sobriety, I met Alex at a meeting for a sober group where I was volunteering I loved her energy and thought I would have a try at doing this “ yoga thing” that she was so enthusiastic to share!
My previous experience of yoga had been at a class that I had attended in my forties, where I was left feeling
inadequate and unable to attain the poses that the teacher was demonstrating Alex’s classes were different! I felt relaxed, and I was able to do the beginner’s classes
The benefits of a consistent yoga practice
I started to practice Alex’s beginner’s videos, and I began to feel really good emotionally after practicing, so I decided to join the MLPC. I loved the calming energy of the meetings, the meditations, the sharing, the journaling, and the friends that I made Yoga became a key item in my sober toolbox.
Newfound skills and navigating grief
I completed Alex’s 30 Hour Sober Curious Yoga Teacher Training, which equipped me to lead sharing circles, and I began leading circles for the MLPC I enjoyed the circles so much that I did a further course on leading circles with Donna Lancaster, author of The Bridge and Wise Words for Women, and I had plans to lead my own circles on a professional basis, as well, until my personal
circumstances changed when my mother became unwell, and I moved in to look after her.
My mother passed away in April 2023. One of the last things that my mum said to me was, “Have you done your yoga yet today?,” and a few minutes later she was gone.
I spent the rest of the year navigating my grief, and yoga continued to be an important aspect of keeping my mental health from going downhill.
Additionally, during 2023, I led my own retreat in Bali, as this had been planned before my mum passed, and I did not want to let down the guests. Alex taught the daily yoga at my retreat, and I was delighted to be in her company again.
Leading retreats for women is something that I am passionate about. I am leading a sold out retreat in October of 2024 I care very deeply
Carolyn also shared why she decided to sign up for the MLP’s Yoga Sutra Study course this fall (a class that can be taken independently or as part of the requirements for the 300 Hour Advanced YTT.
“”During the 200 Hour YTT, we had some incredible discussions about The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and I found myself hungry to know more about the history and philosophy of yoga, so I am excited to continue my learning ”
“ A newfound appreciation for the morning
“Early mornings have never been my favourite time of the day, but I soon found myself not minding getting up at 6am, and I found a new appreciation of experiencing my world waking up The sunrise, the birds singing, the noise of the workers in the rice fields, whilst practicing our meditation, were all magical moments ”
for the guests who choose to place their trust in me, and I try to ensure that they have an experience of a lifetime and go home feeling rested and empowered, with a new group of women that they can call friends
What was your experience like during the MLP 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali? What new skills and/or knowledge do you now possess? What did you learn about yourself?
Towards the end of 2023, a couple of people had asked me if I was considering doing a YTT, and I dismissed the idea, thinking that I was just not ‘’good enough’ to do it But, the seeds had been planted, and I began thinking about it more and more.
I knew that when I had started practicing in 2021, my 58-year-old-body was quite stiff, but I could feel a little flexibility and strength coming in, so I kept practicing I then reached out to Alex to have a Zoom call to ask her whether she thought I would be able to do a YTT Alex’s belief in me gave me the final impetus that I needed to go for it!
The greatest gift
The experience of doing the 200-hour YTT in Bali was one of the greatest gifts I have ever given to myself. Every day, I participated in morning meditation, a vinyasa class, an evening yin class, and many lectures. I was able to fully experience the camaraderie and loving support of the other students while forming friendships. All of these opportunities resulted in this program being one of the richest experiences that I have ever had.
Overcoming barriers
I did ‘hit a wall’ on about day 6, where I thought
Pictured (left): The view of the rice fields from the yoga shala in Bali at Kampung Uma Dawa
that I would not be able to continue. I knew that this was caused by a limiting belief, and I had to take myself off to journal and work my way through it This was an incredible moment for me, as I battled my own demons and found the strength to continue. The loving support of the group also helped me through!
Do you have any new and exciting plans now that you have your Yoga Teacher certification?
Now that I have my certification, I am planning to start my own class in person in my home town. I will lead a restorative class, with some of the less challenging asanas, and some meditation and breathwork. I will continue to see clients in my sober coaching business, and I’m certain that my newly gained knowledge in the deep dive into the Sutras will be useful in helping my clients to explore their relationship with alcohol, as well as other aspects of their lives that they bring into the coaching sessions
Do you have any advice for anyone who is sobercurious or new to sobriety?
For anyone who is sober curious or new to sobriety, I would say that the first thing that they should do is establish their reasons for wanting this change. They should consider, for example, how alcohol is affecting their lives, as well as the benefits that they envision gaining if they become alcohol-free.
I would recommend that they find a tribe of people who are on this journey towards improving their lives. Community was key to my success. Feeling less alone, less ashamed, and more accepted was hugely beneficial As Ann Voskamp states, “shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces ” .
I also took my journey very seriously and approached it as if I was completing a PhD! I read all that I could about alcohol: fiction and fact I worked with a sober coach, listened to podcasts
(including Sober Yoga Girl) and downloaded sober apps. I journaled, organized sober meet-ups, discovered hobbies, and started to learn to love myself after years of selfneglect I gave myself rewards for reaching goals and established boundaries!
What would you to say to someone who is considering participating in a Yoga Teacher Training program, but isn’t completely sure if it is right for him/her?
Do your research! Look at the course, decide if it aligns with your preferences, consider if you want to do it online, in person, over a longer period of time, or as an intensive program.
I did a lot of research before settling on The Mindful Life Practice, and it was the best decision for me. Of course there were challenges, but none of them were insurmountable, I had practiced for some time before attending the program, but I am 61, so I knew that I would need to get to a certain level of fitness beforehand. There was also an element of discipline: the early mornings, the long days, and the daily practice, but there were also the beautiful surroundings, the comfort of my room, the delicious food, and the feelings of nurturing and support that were provided by the students and teachers.
connect and share your sober journey celebrate milestones, use as accountability for your daily yoga and sobriety practices, and access community, empowerment and support A safe place to...
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/sobergirlsyoga/
Barlow
SoberYogaGirl
By Alexandra McRobert
Fourteen months after I got sober, I started writing. I had no idea what I was doing or why I was doing it I just knew that once I began, I couldn’t stop. It felt like I was digging myself out of a deep, dark hole with every word I put on the page.
What I discovered was I wasn’t just a “Former Party Girl” but a girl who was really, really sad and searching for solutions at the bottom of a bottle
Step 4 of the 12 step program is to make a “searching and fearless moral inventory,” and writing this book was an inventory for me What are my problems? How have they affected me and others around me? How can I proceed to recovery?
This story started out as a personal project And then, the deeper I got into my work in sobriety, the more I realized how universal pain is And how our stories become other people’s survival guides And so the book took on a greater meaning.
I spent one whole year working with @salonilakhia from 2020-2021 on this. I cried and cried over
Book
Zoom as she dissected my work After we finished, I then proceeded to let the book sit on my hard drive, which I’m grateful for. In that period of time, a number of conflicts with myself and others came to a conclusion that altered the way I saw the world and the message of the book.
I worked with the incredible @smillman0 who dissected this book yet again, and transformed it Finally, I worked with @fuzzyflamingo-design for the final layout Many friends read the book and gave me feedback. And four years, three editors, 67 chapters and over 115,000 words later - Sober Yoga Girl is here.
When Taylor Swift released TTPD, she wrote, “This period of the author’s life is now over, the chapter closed and boarded up. There is nothing to avenge, no scores to settle once wounds have healed And upon further reflection, a good number of them turned out to be self-inflicted. This writer is of the firm belief that our tears become holy in the form of ink on a page. Once we have spoken our saddest story, we can be free of it.”
A lot of my new book, Sober Yoga Girl, revolves around my experiences living in Kuwait between ages 23 - 25
Visit the link below to explore a blog post where I share some photos and memories of that year, from 2015 - 2016:
https://www.themindfullifepractice.com /post/expat-life-in-kuwait-my-memories
In Mahboula,
Kuwait
When I was twenty-three, I graduated from my Bachelor of Education in Canada. There were no jobs in Canada at the time, so the faculty of education was encouraging us to go overseas to get teaching jobs. And to make a long story short, this is how I found myself a few months later living in Mahboula, Kuwait.
Kuwait is smaller than the city of Toronto, and it neighbors Saudi Arabia and Iraq It was a culture and history and society so unbelievably different to all I’d known before Despite the culture shock and challenges, during my time there I fell in love with the Middle East. I fell in love with the dates, the palm trees, the sunrises and sunsets the smell of the warm ocean air… and how Thursdays will always be special The halloumi cheese, the word inshallah, and how walking outside in the summer is like walking through a hairdryer
I lived in the Middle East for seven years total and I still think of it as my home.
As much as I fell in love with the region, I also faced huge challenges whilst there. My mental health fell apart I couldn’t handle the culture shock, the stress of my job, having my heart broken… drinking homemade alcohol every night being surrounded by 200 other teachers in my apartment building yet feeling so alone
I think of it as the most difficult and the greatest two years of my life And I’d never take it back because it is the reason I am who I am and how I ended up here, in Bali, today
I’m excited to share my new book, Sober Yoga Girl, which is largely centered around my time in the Middle East, including the Kuwait & Abu Dhabi years, and what I learned while I was there.
In Mahboula, Kuwait
In Abu Dhabi,
UnitedArabEmirates
I was sitting in Jakarta airport in October 2017, about to fly to Abu Dhabi to step into my new job at an International Private School when I received a DM It was from someone who ran the alumni newsletter at my High School, who wanted to feature me as an “Alumni Success Story ”
I remember thinking, “me? An alumni success story? I’m a 25-year-old divorcee who is constantly running away and wanted to kill herself a few months ago but ok if you say so!” The proposed feature never moved forward, but what was significant to me was that they had even asked
That moment was when I realized how warped my own self-perception was. Here I was thinking I was the biggest mess - and others were looking at my life and considering me successful
And that’s when I realized our lives make up millions of moments. And one moment, where I made a mistake, did not define me as a person.
I landed in Abu Dhabi, and it was like someone was opening up the curtains on windows that had been
drawn shut for a long, long time I would describe it honestly as life after death I wrote on one Instagram caption that every day was a miracle and everything was magic.
What I remember was for the first time in a long time, I had hope I would get the feedback from colleagues I worked with that I was always so happy, or always so chill, and I would think, “Y’all have no idea what I went through to get to this point.”
The pictures reflect this for me Brightness Sunrises Sunsets Sweetness Simplicity
However, all things come in twos. And with the light, came darkness I definitely wasn’t telling all my colleagues that I’d run away from Kuwait on a sick leave and left an apartment full of stuff behind while undergoing a divorce. Minor details.
Shame and secrets make you sick, and as I got introduced to the world of “all you can drink brunches” and “ladies’ nights” in the United Arab Emirates, I began to slide down the drinking scale further and faster than I wanted to.
I got sober about 1 5 years after I moved to the UAE, and because it was the place where I found my true self, I’ll always consider it my home.
Bali
Often, when I’m chatting with drop-in yoga students in Bali before class, someone will ask, “How did you end up living in Bali?” I’ll check the clock to see if I have time for the long answer or the short answer
The short answer is that I came in 2017, loved it, and then moved here after.
The long answer? In June 2017, Bali was meant to be the destination for our honeymoon After two months of marriage, we broke up the night before the flight.
I had organized every activity, hotel and tour for our two-week honeymoon. At the end of the honeymoon, he was meant to fly back to Kuwait for work, and I was staying in Bali for 4 more weeks to do my 300 Hour Advanced YTT. After he left at dawn that day, I cancelled my flight. I couldn’t imagine going alone.
I managed to get everything cancelled and refunded - except the 300 Hour YTT. After getting a doctor’s note, thanks to western medicine, I was able to postpone the training to September 2017
I often describe my experience landing in Bali
as the moment when Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz stopped seeing in black and white and started seeing in colour. That’s what it was for me The plane landed in Bali, and I could hear bugs buzzing, smell incense burning, feel the rain on my skin, taste the fresh fruit Every one of my senses was alive again When I look at photos, I can literally see the life returning to my eyes again After wanting to end my life for two months, thinking I was a terrible person who didn’t deserve to live anymorefinally, I wanted to be here again On planet earth. I just kept thinking to myself, “Thank God I didn’t die ”
I knew I’d live here in Bali one day I just didn’t know how. I was a school teacher and couldn’t see past the traditional, 9-5 job.
I moved to Abu Dhabi and started to work again And then I got sober And then Covid hit. And then I lost my job as a yoga teacher in lockdown. And then I started Zoom yoga. And then Zoom yoga turned into @themindfullifepractice App. And then I quit my job and got a one way ticket to Bali And the rest… is history.
Bali In
Introducing:Sober YogaGirl
I had no plans to ever go public about my sober journey It was something I was very ashamed of. I joined an Online Program with a Facebook Group and found so much support connecting to others about their journeys. I got gradually brave enough to post about mine too
After 60 days of regular posts, I established a community within the community. And the organization reached out to me and asked me to do a testimonial
I was so worried about how this would look to the outside world. But I wanted to do it, because I knew that if I told my story, it could help inspire others to go sober. So after debating it for 30 days, I submitted the testimonial
I decided to post it on my own Facebook first, in order to “get ahead of the gossip.” The amount of messages I got after that first post made me realize how common it is to struggle with alcohol. All this time, I thought there was something wrong with me because I couldn’t manage my drinking.
But actually, alcohol was a common struggle a lot of people had
I gradually started speaking publicly about my journey, which sparked a lot of attention especially on TikTok. Alcohol, addiction & recovery were very taboo subjects at the time in the Middle East, and I was the first one to speak about it
Sober Girls Yoga got invited on a lot of podcasts I launched Sober Girls Yoga, an online 30- & 60-day challenge, to help women quit drinking Sober Girls Yoga was featured on National radio and newspapers in Dubai.
In 2021, I ran my first sober yoga retreat in Dubai and since then, it’s grown massively. This year, we had 15 women participate in a retreat to India, 16 women graduate from a 200 Hour YTT in Bali, and many participants in our online programs It turns out spirituality, connection & community are what a lot of people need on this journey
I do believe that connecting sober / sober curious women together, or really anyone on a recovery journey of any kind, is my dharma or my purpose And I am very grateful to have the opportunity to do this every day.
Introducing:SoberYogaGirl
Visit the mindfullifepractice.com/shop to sign up for your monthly subscription!
Tour the historic cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur and then travel to a top-rated yoga retreat centre in Goa!
#mindfullifepracticeretreat
visit https://www.themindfullifepractice.com/india-adventure for more information!
Sober Yoga Girl
bFivereasonswhythismemoirneedsto eapartofyourpersonalbookcollection
By Sarah Millman
August 12, 2024
At the beginning of her memoir entitled Sober Yoga Girl, Alexandra McRobert shares how, at the age of twenty-five, she rushed headfirst into a marriage…in spite of the fact that it went against her gut intuition This costly decision causes Alex’s mental health to decline rapidly, and she spirals to the point of wanting to end her life.
As we journey with Alex into the past to learn about the factors that led up to this event and then accompany her as she embarks upon a path towards healing and growth, we are able to experience,
first-hand, how spirituality, broadening her perspective beyond the boundaries of the Western world, community and connection are able to provide her with the resources that she needs to become the strong, confident and capable woman that she is today.
Nevertheless, Sober Yoga Girl is so much more than just a memoir. As Alex explains in her book, she now sees “the purpose for the pain” that she “went through ” In sharing her story, it is Alex’s hope that she can accomplish a goal that Brené Brown so aptly put into words when she stated, “One day, you’ll tell the story of what you overcame, and it will be someone else’s survival guide.”
In anticipation of the release date of this phenomenal memoir on September 5, 2024, I wanted to take a moment to write about all of the reasons why I love this book, as well as why I truly believe that it will serve as that “survival guide” for others
“I listen, and I strive to foster a safe space where [others] can feel heard – because these are the supports that I was missing during my own mental health journey”
~Alexandra McRobert
And so, what are the five reasons why this memoir needs to become a part of your book collection?
1.
Sober Yoga Girl is relatable. It is the friend that you didn’t know you needed ☺.
There is a moment in Sober Yoga Girl when Alex describes the kindness of a stranger that she encountered at a time when she was struggling with her mental health by stating, “[a]ll he did was walk beside me, but sometimes all you need is someone to walk beside you. It made me feel much less alone ”
The book, Sober Yoga Girl, is very much the personified version of this kind and compassionate stranger By openly talking about her own journey with mental health, addiction and the deeprooted impacts of trauma, Alex’s memoir makes any of us who have struggled with those same
difficulties feel less alone. It makes us feel seen, heard, validated and loved
2 Sober Yoga Girl works to combat the stigmas that surround both addiction and mental health.
Through the use of yoga philosophy, Alex allows us to view both addiction and mental health from a completely different angle than what we may be accustomed to if we grew up in the Western world. She bravely steps out of the shadows where she was “hiding in shame with [her] story,” and she shines a spotlight on it
in hopes of teaching others that it’s okay:
It’s okay if you aren’t perfect, if you have self-doubt, or if you have struggled with conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, or depression
It’s okay if you can’t figure out how to moderate, if you have formed unhealthy patterns, or if you feel unloveable
All human beings struggle, and all human beings suffer
“Sober Yoga Girl is relatable. It is the friend that you didn’t know you needed ☺. ”
3. In Sober Yoga Girl, Alex shares about her current approach towards holistic healing and the practices that she has in her “mental health toolkit ” Readers can learn about the strategies that Alex has used to promote growth and healing and decide if any of them might fit into their own lives.
4. Sober Yoga Girl is an exciting adventure that allows us to explore places that we may have never visited before! Alex’s life is unique, and she has lived in many places around the globe Through Alex’s eyes, we are able to learn more about the language, customs and cultures of individuals in places such as Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Bali.
5 Sober Yoga Girl is one-hundred percent authentically Alex! Quite simply put, to know Alex is to love Alex, and she has poured her heart and soul onto each and every page of her book. There is certainly no way that I would rather spend my time than to learn more about this kind and talented woman who is wise far beyond her years!
If I haven’t convinced you yet, then let me just end with these last lines:
https://www.wisemonkeyway.com/bali
Yoga Around the World:
Checking-in with former YTT Graduates
By Sarah Millman
How have graduates from the Mindful Life Practice’s 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training programs applied the knowledge and skillsets that they have gained in their communities?
We decided to check-in with some former students to see what they have been up to in their home towns!
Leanne Golding:
Leanne has been an MLPC member from the very start! She first joined the Mindful Life Practice in June of 2020 during lockdown, and she has since participated in the MLP’s 30 Hour Sober Curious course in addition to the 200 Hour YTT!
Erica Tiedje
Leanne’s yoga teaching career started off with teaching a Zoom class for the MLPC in 2021-2022. In 2022, Leanne also taught her first in-person class during the MLP retreat in Mexico
In 2023, a studio owner asked Leanne if she would consider teaching a weekly yoga class Although she momentarily hesitated and was debating as to whether she was ‘good enough,’ Leanne’s friends (including Alex McRobert) encouraged her to go for it!
Leanne began teaching at One Heart Yoga & Apothecary in the Cayman Islands in December of 2023, and she absolutely loves it! She always looks forward to teaching her Saturday morning class!
Erica graduated from the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program in March of 2024, and she immediately hit the ground running when it comes to sharing her expertise with others!
She is currently teaching Trauma Yoga at both the Humana Military USCG Key West US Naval Base, as well as the US Coast Guard Sector Key West
Additionally, she leads “Power Tools Sober Circles” on Sundays at 7pm at Kava Culture in Key West!
Garner Jernigan:
Renee began her yoga practice in the early 2000s as a complement to running and strength training. She practiced off and on for 20 years before participating in the 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training with the Mindful Life Practice
Renee currently lives in Birmingham, Alabama, and she teaches yoga once a week at her local gym, the Wheelhouse Academy She loves creating flows that spark mindfulness, selfawareness, self-inquiry and play!
Sarah Millman:
Sarah graduated from the same YTT group as Renee in October of 2023.
Sarah has substituted and offered free classes for the MLP quite a bit in 2024, and she had the opportunity to be one of the instructors on the MLP 200 Hour YTT in Bali this summer She is also currently offering a biweekly yoga class at the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center. Her class combines breathwork, meditation and asana (the postures of yoga).
A fun fact about Sarah and Renee is that they both attended the Mindful Life Practice’s yoga retreat in Todos Santos, Mexico during the summer of 2022 where they had the opportunity to teach their first full yoga classes to retreat participants!
Renee
In September of 2021, one of our members generously donated a full scholarship for one BIPOC student to participate in our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training (Value: $2400).
Since that time, the MLPC has continued to offer and fund scholarships for BIPOC and lgbtqia2s+ students to attend our yoga teacher trainings and become members of our community.
We want to give access to Yoga Teacher Training to those who may not have the budget for it otherwise. We also want to support diverse representation in yoga, which is why we continue to offer these scholarships regularly
Scholarships can be available for:
- 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings
- 30 Hour Sober Curious Yoga Teacher Trainings
- 300 Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings
- #SOBERGIRLSYOGA Membership
-Founders Club Memberships
If this is something you feel passionate about, please support us by making a donation. Visit:
What is the vagus nerve, and how can learning about improving our vagal tone lead to improvements in our wellbeing?
By Jules Allen
Hi. I’m Jules. Each month, I explore and share simple Therapeutic and Wellbeing tools that you may want to
use to support you and your wellbeing and bring into your everyday life!
This month, we are looking at The Vagus Nerve This remarkable nerve is the longest in the human body. This nerve plays a pivotal role in connecting our brain to various vital organs, which influence everything from our heart rate to our digestive processes
Understanding and nurturing the vagus nerve can be transformative, offering a pathway to enhanced physical and mental health
Whatisthevagusnerve?
It’s named after the Latin word for "wandering," which aptly describes its extensive reach throughout the body Originating in the brainstem, it travels down through the neck and into the chest and abdomen, innervating major organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. As a critical component of the parasympathetic nervous system, the vagus nerve is essential for the "rest and digest" functions that counterbalance the "fight or flight" responses of the sympathetic nervous system.
WhatisVagalTone?
Vagal tone refers to the activity of the vagus nerve Higher vagal tone indicates a more resilient and responsive parasympathetic nervous system, which is crucial for maintaining a state of balance and calm.
*Good vagal tone is associated with numerous health benefits including...
regulation of heart rate and blood pressure, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
stimulation of digestive enzymes and bile production, which leads to more efficient digestion and reduced inflammation in the gut
support in lowe depression, im and enhancing
support in managing inflammation and developing a more robust immune response
When the Vagus Nerve isn’t functioning well also known as “abnormal vagal tone” your health can suffer in many ways
Symptoms can arise after a period of illness or extreme physical stress or trauma. Extreme or prolonged emotional stress can also cause an imbalance.
SimpleWaysto ImproveVagalTone:
Going for a massage or selfmassage,
singing and chanting,
engaging in breathwork, yoga, Qigong, mindfulness and meditation, cold water swimming, cold showers,
gently splashing cold water on your face, and even gargling water!
Howcanimprovingyour vagaltonechangeyourlife?
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can have significant improvements in your overall wellbeing.
When you nurture your vagus nerve, you are not only enhancing your physical health but also supporting your mental and emotional resilience.
Embracing the power of the vagus nerve is a natural way to support your health and wellbeing!
The Mindful Life Practice Store Ventures Offline!
By Sarah Millman
Opportunity Strikes!
The Mindful Life Practice’s merchandise had the opportunity to venture offline and into the the real world this summer at Kampung Uma Dawa!
During the in-person, 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training program in Bali, there was an MLPC clothing delivery at the same time that one of the YTT instructors noticed an empty clothing rack
The rest was history!
MLPC Fashion
The spontaneous clothing store immediately drew in a lot of customers, and “The Sober Girls Yoga” and “Heal” Crop tops, as well as “The Mindful Life Practice” sweatshirts sold out quickly!
Did you know?!
The MLPC offers free international shipping, and 50% of sales on all Merchandise go towards BIPOC and lgbtgia2s+ scholarships, in order to diversify our community.
The Mindful Life Practice’s Merchandise
Would you like to purchase clothing from the MLPC Merch Shop?
Simply scan the QR Code below or visit themindfullifepractice com/shop
Celebrating our YTT Graduates
Online 200 Hour YTT
In March, students from the online 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training program graduated after participating in a full-year program. Let’s give a round of applause to..
Jane Ballard
Melissa Moxey
Lisa Walk
Brandi Ezell
Erica Tiedje
In-person 200 Hour YTT
There were also many students who graduated from the in-person 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Program in Bali this April and July. Congratulations to all of our new yoga teachers!
Lauren Brasfield
Carolyn Clark
Stephanie Harper
Haley Honeman
Melody Jouse
EmmaDhanelleKearney
JillMarshall
TheresaMariePasqualicchio
Juliet Rogers Hollie Ross TraciSchneider
Jen Segarra
Claire Sheeres Marina Violette
AliDiwaji
Teacher Interview
By Sarah Millman
Meet Deb! A true yoga enthusiast, Deb has been actively involved with the
Mindful Life Practice since 2021 when she joined a 30-Day Sober Yoga Challenge. Since that time, Deb has not only graduated from the MLP’s 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT), but she returned and served as one of the lead instructors for the MLP’s YTT this past July in Bali.
I decided to interview Deb to find out a little bit more about how yoga and the MLPC have played a role in her life.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’I have three main loves: family, animals, and yoga I am so lucky to have been blessed with the opportunity to have all these wonderful things in my life, and all of this is topped off with beautiful friends and a lovely home in a beautiful environment.
I have three amazing children and two grandkids. I also have a sheep and cat. Last, but definitely not least, is my duck “Buggie!”
When did you first become involved with The Mindful Life Practice Community?
I met Alex about three years ago, when I started a 30-day sober yoga challenge after drinking way too much during the COVID lockdown.
There were only two of us doing the challenge at that time, and the Zoom calls were at 11pm, but I was committed to change. My cochallenger was the beautiful Carrie, and between the smiles and strength that I received from Alex and Carrie I just kept going. I continued to 60 days and then to 120 days, and I felt amazing
These new and inspiring people in my life kept me motivated and feeling supported and so, when the opportunity arose to do a 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali, I was the first to sign up
My YTT in Bali with The Mindful Life Practice was amazing and life-changing for me.
“My YTT in Bali with The Mindful Life Practice was
Deb’s beloved duck, Buggie!
Although I already had a 200 Hour Yoga Teaching certificate and was doing some private sessions with friends, I was unsure if I could teach in front of a class, or if that was what I wanted I am very shy and quiet However, after Bali, I was ready.
The week after I came home from Bali, I put my name on a substitute teaching list at my local studio The next week, I did my first fillin class, and I loved it so much. Within two weeks, I was given my own class One month later, I had two classes, and it grew from there.
Now, I am teaching 5 permanent timeslots, working in multiple studios, and teaching different yoga styles: slow flow, yin and vinyasa.
Bali brought me confidence and connection, and the yoga philosophy that I have learned brings me peace and strength.
Whether you want to teach or deepen your practice, The Mindful Life Practice WILL rock your world!
Participating in a YTT is a journey into selfdiscovery and transformation The bonds that you make the along the way with your fellow trainees are life-long, as you are souls on a shared journey with challenges, joy, and in the end, triumph It is a journey of love, light and awakening…and asana (poses), of course (Ha Ha!).
“Whether you want to teach or deepen your practice, The Mindful Life Practice WILL rock your world!”
This year, I had the opportunity to be one of the lead instructors during the Mindful Life Practice’s 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali.
Returning to the YTT as an instructor was mind blowing! Although I am always on a learning journey, this was very special.
ful to have been part teaching team, with d Jami.
olute time of my life, ked hard and laughed volved, talked deeply ch fun!
art and soul I feel so it: the spiritual side, the animals, the ounds and the magic.
MY PLACE OF PEACE Deb’sYogaJourney
(A poem written by Deb during the Summer of 2024 during the Mindful Life Practice 200 Hour YTT in Bali)
I call my mat my place of peace, my sacred space, where my heart heals, where my breath returns, where I find my strength, where I find my connection to spirit
As I step onto my mat, I connect in my heart, to practitioners all over the world who are also stepping onto their mats, honoring this ancient art of Yoga finding strength or vulnerability Whatever they are seeking from this space
“We are all connected; we are one, “ is what I say and feel at the end of every class I teach. Feeling connected to everything, everybody, universe, and spirit Words that come from my heart
My journey into Yoga started a long time ago
In the beginning, it was a physical practice of strength, flexibility, and focus. I absolutely fell in love with the flow, the discipline, and the way I felt afterward.
I sought out different lineages, teachers, and classes I created a beautiful and strong home practice, thanks to Ashtanga
Sometimes I needed to keep my practice going through various injuries or life challenges. I was always drawn back to the mat
When an injury threatened my practice, I remember what one of my amazing teachers said, “Just take a break from Asana (poses) and look deeper into the yoga behind the postures.
I found meditation!! I found breath, I found stillness, I found my inner wisdom, I found my connection to spirit
With every step, I lean more into yoga. I step deeper into me.
Coming into myself means connecting to the universe, from a place of peace, contentment and gratitude
The next part of my journey started when I found Alex and The Mindful Life Practice online.
Alex has a strong connection to Yoga Philosophy, Through Alex, I had an introduction to what would be my next love
The spiritual teachings that surround the practice of yoga.
My journey catapulted me to Bali
My intention at the start of my Bali YTT was to learn how to live Yoga off the mat
And boy that is something that I have begun, but I believe I will keep living and learning until I move on to my next life.
I also found a community of open-hearted souls to be on that journey with
Real, vulnerable women who are enriching their lives together
Through an amazing opportunity, I am back in Bali again, and I am unbelievably grateful.
This time, my Yoga intention is different, as it has changed many times over the years
This time, I came to Bali to learn stillness, humility, and grace.
An eternal student of Yoga.
I love connecting to my students, hoping to bring to them some of the treasures and transformation that I have found and seen in others
A balance between effort and ease, holding on and letting go
I say to my students that my heart is so full helping others to love Yoga I feel it may burst
I pray that my practice continues with gratitude and grace.
LOVE AND LIGHT, DEB
TheSoberYoga Podcast
Just search “Sober Yoga Girl” anywhere that you listen to podcasts to hear Alex speak with sober individuals from around the world, as they explore...
speaking to family and friends, triggers around alcohol,
mental health,
yoga philosophy, and more!,
Article republished with permission from The Sober Curator https://www.thesobercurator.com/alcohol-free-travel-in-bali/
By Peggi Cooney. MSW, Author of This Side of Alcohol, Chief Connections Officer @ Zeroproof Experiences
Over eighteen months ago, my business partner, Susie Streelman, founder of Zeroproof Experiences (ZPE), told me
she had decided to arrange an alcohol-free trip to Bali. I thought, “Oh, that’s nice,” deciding then and there that this would be one event I would most definitely pass on. After all, as the Chief Connections Officer for ZPE, I was fully immersed in the events we had already hosted and planned to host all over the US, but traveling to a country more than halfway around the world had no appeal to me whatsoever This was a place way outside my comfort zone
Little did I know that Susie would not take no for an answer and, sensing my resistance, booked the flight a little over a year ago
“The truth is that to learn something new, one has to be out of the comfort zone, and by definition, learning will generate a degree of discomfort.”
~Mario Muniz
I didn’t think much about the trip until a few months ago when Susie started having meetings with our Bali host, Maree Makenzie, owner of Soul Bliss Journey, and the other women who signed up for the trip. As the date came closer, the thought of being on a plane for an entire day filled me with anxiety. My husband wasn’t thrilled about me going, but there didn’t seem to be a way to back out
When the day came, and our friend Lisa dropped us off at the San Francisco International Airport, I became increasingly quiet. Although I consider myself welltraveled, the furthest I have traveled was to Europe.
When I walked on that Singapore Airlines Air Bus and saw that 12A looked more like a tiny home than an airplane seat, I wept with gratitude. Equipped with an actual bed, I slept nine and a half hours on the first leg of our flight I was served lattes in bed We arrived in Sanur, Bali, around nine in the morning with the most negligible jet lag I have ever experienced.
Rested and hydrated, we stepped out of the airport and into an exotic world I can only describe as brilliant chaos. Bali is different from any place I have ever been There were stunning landscapes, temples, street vendors, and many people. The interplay between cars, motorbikes, and narrow streets had me holding my breath at times, yet I was in awe of Balinese driving skills Did I mention they drive on the wrong side of the road?
Maree and Reddy, owners of Soul Bliss Journeys (soulblissjourneys com), created a customized itinerary for our group of nine alcohol-free women -a pediatrician, a lawyer turned art docent, two nurses, a real estate agent, a trade show business owner, another business owner turned professional traveler, a former physical therapist turned entrepreneur, and a social worker The itinerary was designed to experience the world-famous Balinese hospitality from the minute we stepped into the lobby of the Sudamala Resort in Sanur.
Maree, who has lived and worked in Bali for years, is warm and friendly and has developed deep connections with the Balinese people, which gave our group and all other groups working with her a unique, intimate, and unforgettable experience of Balinese culture and customs. Maree has been alcohol-free for ten years Reddy, Maree’s partner, is charming and knowledgeable about the places we visited, adding to our experience. Maree and Reddy planned such diverse and immersive activities that highlighted what Bali has to offer, and we all appreciated the time allocated for leisure that, for some, included many opportunities for massages and shopping Susie and I had fun dressing up in Balinese costumes for a photo shoot
Pictured: Peggi Cooney and Susie Streelman of Zero Proof Experiences Photo provided by Zero Proof Experiences
Sudamala Resort: Sanur
Day 1: Balinese Welcome Ceremony and Dinner/Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
Day 2: Dinner at the cliffside restaurant, Mana, followed by a trip to the Uluwatu Temple for the Kecak Dance Performance, also known as Bali Fire Dance
Day 3: LaBrisa Beach Club
Kuwarasan Resort: Ubud
Day 4: Lunch and a Sound Healing Session at the Pyramids of Chi in Ubud
Day 5: Visit Putu’s, a traditional Balinese family home and temple, for a cooking class
Day 6: Hike down to Goa Raja Waterfall, followed by a raw lunch and massage at the Taksu Garden
Day 7: Sacred Water Ceremony, Coffee/Tea Tasting, Swings, and Lunch at the Tegalallang Rice Terraces, followed by a final dinner at the Sayan House (Alex McRobs, owner of the Mindful Life Practice, led yoga sessions on the resort rooftop)
Interesting Bali Facts:
In front of every business, home, and temple, you will see little boxes carefully constructed of coconut leaves containing food, flowers, fruit, water, and other offerings called canang sari. These boxes, often seen with burning incense, are a visual representation of the importance of gratitude in the Balinese culture and are renewed daily.
Balinese people do not use a family last name. Both boys and girls receive a birth order name from a small typical group of names for each birth order position. These names may vary due to caste, regional customs, and variations in the Balinese language between the north and south of the island Boys have an “I” in front of the name, girls “Ni.”
One food you HAVE to try is rempeyek: a chip of sorts, made from batter, infused with spices, studded with crunchy peanuts, covered with light fragrant threads of kafir lime leaves, then deep fried
Photo provided by Zero Proof Experiences
ZPE Bali Itinerary:
Photo provided by Zero Proof Experiences
Interesting Bali Facts (Continued):
Indonesia is much bigger than Europe There are seventeen thousand plus islands, of which only seven thousand are inhabited With 240 million people, Indonesia is the fourth-largest populated country after India, China, and the US
Balinese people love marigolds They are commonly used for offerings and decorations. Their golden color is associated with Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, the Supreme God in Balinese culture. The flower also represents the power, strength, and light inside a person
Monkeys are indigenous to Bali. They were abundant at the Uluwatu Temple and are known for their thievery. A naughty monkey will grab an object like a cell phone, sunglasses, or a flip-flop and (maybe) return it only when offered a treat of their liking One of our guests tangled with a thieving monkey who had to be convinced with food to give her sandal back.
My bill for services at the Sudamala Resort for the Balinese costume photo session, two massages, a mani-pedi, a few dinners, and laundry services was four million, four hundred eighty thousand one hundred sixty-three dollars–$272.73 US.
Most families live in traditional Balinese generational house compounds, where daily functions are separated not by rooms but by individual structures within an enclosing wall. The asta kosala guidelines, similar to how feng shui is applied in Chinese culture, were used to construct Balinese homes Each compound has a temple in the center
You will see many intricate kites flying on the island, made from colorful paper, meant to thank the gods who watch over Bali and request bountiful harvests
You will also see beautiful decorative umbrellas all over the island called tudung, which literally means “to guard,” symbolizing protection They are also said to symbolize a mountain whose protective shade covers the land and people Balinese mountains are said to be the home of the gods, the pinnacle of spirituality
Bali still deals with issues like garbage disposal and the uncontrolled dog population, breaking my social worker heart Dogs in Bali, like other dogs around the world, are valued for their ability to protect people and property and are not treated like we treat our pets in the US
Alcohol-free tourism is a growing trend for people already connected by their alcoholfree journey.
Alcohol-free travel allows for increased sleep, the ability to be fully present, fully take in their surroundings, and ready to explore and engage in activities that promote well-being, like yoga, hiking, massage, and other spa activities according to the British Medical Journal, abstaining from alcohol when traveling reduces injury by 19%
Photo provided by Zero Proof Experiences
Reflections from the group:
Susie: When I first connected with Maree, the owner of Soul Bliss Journey, in October 2021, I didn’t know if it would be possible to host an elevated, alcohol-free trip to my beloved Bali
So, making this trip with nine strong women brought some emotional experiences! Like meeting Alex McRoberts, AKA @soberyogagirl, after messaging for almost three years And our group walking around a corner and seeing Zeroproof Experiences spelled out in Marigolds! I’m so grateful to all the strong women who traveled and our fabulous hosts and support in Bali
Anne: I knew sober tourism was a growing trend but didn’t grasp the full range of benefits until my first group vacation with non-drinking friends From day one, you ’ re connecting with like-minded people who’ve gone through a similar life experience becoming alcohol-free You have the
energy to do active and adventurous things, get out of your comfort zone, and find new avenues of personal growth You make the most of every day with a clear head. You have thoughtful and authentic conversations and minimize the possibility of travel drama.
Eiman: My visit to Bali was a turning point in my life I was sober for six months, and then I relapsed right before the trip I was worried, anxious, and feeling terrible about my drinking I tried to stop, but it was hard because I was doing it by myself. Going to Bali and being with eight incredible women has helped me to reset my sobriety. And their love carried me through the mini bar.
The atmosphere is so tranquil. I felt I was more in touch with myself I had never laughed from the bottom of my heart like I did in Bali by being with the group of women who have a great sense of humor The
Photo provided by Zero Proof Experiences
Balinese people have a smile that comes from the heart, and their level of service is amazing. The trip taught me a lot about sobriety, the wonderful Balinese culture, religion, food, and how to stay calm during heavy traffic. It’s incredible how the Balinese people have no road rage or accidents. They are so respectful to each other I will definitely go back to Bali in the future to learn more about it. I returned feeling relaxed, refreshed, vibrant, and, more importantly, sober
Amy: Our Zeroproof retreat group at halfpast sunrise gathered for a yoga class in an open-air rooftop studio overlooking local rice paddies Our meditation began with the hum of crickets, rooster crows, and bird songs
Our instructor, Alex, (themindfullifepractice com) is a bright young Canadian and student of life. Alex asked, “Did you ever imagine that by surrendering alcohol, you would land on a rooftop studio doing yoga in the land of Bali?” The answer to this question reflects this profound truth: The choice to initiate a positive change in our lives, no matter how hard, will produce an outcome that will exceed our wildest expectations!
When I set aside my “beloved” Sauvignon Blanc three years ago, I never imagined it would bring me to such a beautiful place geographically, emotionally, and spiritually Now, I’m standing in the Warrior position pose, and I can glance back and see where I was and then turn my focus to the future ahead. I know that the ongoing practice of surrender (to alcohol, particularly) will keep me exactly where I want to be grounded in a space of tranquility, presence, and peace
Jenny: Stuff like this, you can’t write a check for
Kendra: If we had been drinking, there would have been times when we all would have done things we may not have wanted to…or our boundaries may have been obliterated by people-pleasing behavior. We all had good boundaries in that we participated in what we wanted to, there was no pressure to “ go along” with anything we weren’t up for, and we were independent in many ways
Patti: Let’s see I get an email from a company I’ve never heard of, Zeroproof Experiences, to travel halfway around the world, to be with eight women I’ve never met, to a country I know nothing about. Crazy right? Crazy, yes, but this was one of the best experiences of my life, and I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone
The Balinese people are the most gracious people I’ve ever met They are welcoming and charming. The landscape is exotic and diverse The food is unique but delicious The hotels are exquisite but unbelievably inexpensive. Overall, a wonderful experience But I think the best surprise was meeting eight strong ladies with different backgrounds who traveled beautifully together. These ladies will stay in my heart and memories forever.
Janet: When it comes to saying goodbye to each other, I’m not
Yes, Janet, I agree The friendships we have forged on this trip will be life-long ones
Resources:
The Solo Girl’s Travel Guide Bali -Alexa West Guides
Sober Girls Around the World
Let’s take a look at the international adventures of our community members!
Photos provided by our international community
The MLPC Travels to India
Mindful Life Practice retreat participants traveled to India this past March
In addition to having the opportunity to practice yoga in the country where it originated, they were also able to explore such the historic cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, and some participants even decided to stay for an extra week to visit a retreat centre in the beachside town of Goa.
In the United Arab Emirates
Pictured (right): Alex McRobert and Madison Zarnett.
Madison has been a community member of the Mindful Life Practice since the early days! She attended one of Alex’s classes at the Pilates Lab in Zayed Sports City to show her support!
Pictured (left): Participants in the Mindful Life Practice’s weekend retreat at the Al Ain Rotana.
Everyone in this group has participated in a YTT or attended a retreat in the past, so it felt very nostalgic to all be together!
A “Meet up” in Bali
Pictured (left): Jane Ballard, Jill Marshall, Alex McRobert, Lauren Brasfield and Alex Rodriguez got together during Jane’s Bali retreat in April, 2024. Jane hosted a sober group of women and brought them over to the retreat center where Alex lives for a yoga class! continue
The MLP Yoga Retreat in Bali
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Programs in Bali
Pictured (above): Guest speaker Susie Streelman, founder of Zeroproof Experiences (ZPE), came to the July YTT as a guest speaker.
Pictured (left): Sober Girls in London, England get together for a practice!
Maintaining a healthy routine and yoga practice during the “BacktoSchool”Season
By Julia Sadler
September can feel overwhelming with the start of a new school year, returning to work and re-establishing routines after summer It can be an emotional time – first days at school, moving to college, new jobs or new countriesmarking new stages of life for ourselves and those close to us
Our practice helps us to face these challenges with patience and resilience. So how do we re-establish it when routines have changed, and we ’ re juggling a new set of demands?
In this article, I will share some tips for establishing wellbeing practices at the start of a new school year, which are based upon the yama(s) and niyama(s) in the Yoga Sutras!:
Protectyourtime: 1
Protect your time by setting boundaries and asking others for support This may be establishing that you will finish work on time, share childcare responsibilities, or strive to become more aware of when you ’ re likely to fall into scrolling through social media.
2.Setrealisticexpectations:
Set a realistic expectation of how frequently you can practice yoga. If habits have slipped over the summer, you can build back up gradually Maybe start by aiming for 2-4 times per week, rather than daily. Setting achievable goals can help you to stay motivated and committed
4.Setyourselfupforsuccess!
3.Visualiseyourpersonalpractice:
Visualise what your practice will consist of: classes, meditation, journalling, walking
Remember that your practice doesn’t have to be too rigid - life can be especially unpredictable at this time of year and needs can change from day to day!
I love the flexibility of on-demand classes on the Mindful Life app, as they allow me to pick the class that I need that also fits in the amount of time that I have available – whether it’s a 1 hour flow class or a 10 minute meditation!
Finding our way back into a regular practice may be easier if we select a class that is well-known to us, as this allows the body and mind to find comfort in familiarity and repetition. A new challenge can also be motivating- but when the mind is busy with multiple demands, allowing muscle memory to lead can often feel more accessible
Set yourself up to succeed! Have your mat or meditation cushion on hand, clear a space for your home practice, or prepare your bag the night before a class Leave your journal and a favourite pen in an accessible place
When we ’ re focused on multiple demands and time is tight, removing any small friction points ahead of time sets a clear intention and makes it easier to build consistency
5.Releaseexpectationsandembracethe
“here
andnow”
Let go of any attachment to how your practice ‘should’ look. Maybe travelling or exercising differently has affected the accessibility of a pose, or the mind is slower to settle in savasana or meditation Instead of frustration, observe how you feel- adjusting to find what is right in this moment.
Remember that our bodies and minds are constantly changing, but consistency will bring greater ease.
6.Reconnectwithcommunity:
Reconnect with community, online or in person Finding like-minded people who support the path that you are on is both inspiring and reassuring -especially if those immediately around us do not have the same priorities, it can be easy for us to feel doubtful and for our commitment to waver
Making plans with others can also increase accountability, enjoyability and the likelihood that we will see our goals through!
7.Listentoyorubody:
Listen to your body – and don’t be too hard on yourself. This time of year can be tiring as our bodies and minds adjust, so consider how you can adapt your practice
When energy levels feel low and a dynamic asana class feels out of reach, maybe try a restorative yin class, meditation or a journaling practice Even an inspiring podcast or book can help to establish a mindset of wellbeing and growth.
8.Practicegratitude
Express gratitude towards yourself for committing to your practice Progress is all about small right steps and however you make time for yourself, try to show thanks and appreciation.
For me, there is one thing that still holds true even after decades of practice–I always feel better after making time to practice yoga and remembering that I am exactly where I need to be.
About the Author:
Hi, I’m Julia I’m originally from Leeds, England, but I have been based in Dubai for the last 12 years, where I live with my husband, two sons aged 7 and 4, and 2 small dogs I completed my 200 hour YTT in 2023 with the MLPC, and I have taken part in various programs and retreats over the past 2 years I work as a fashion website manager and am passionate about sharing my love of yoga with others
The MLP’s new “Unity” class!
By Sarah Millman Photos of Alex McRobs
This summer, Alex decided to offer a new type of yoga class to celebrate International Yoga Day on June 21st: “Unity” classes!
“Unity” classes offer members of The Mindful Life Practice with a unique flow that
Alternate nostril
breathing (Nadi Shodhana)
combines breathwork, a kundalini style warm-up, Surya Namaskar, a vinyasa flow, yin postures and mantra chanting!
The classes are designed to promote a sensation of feeling grounded, whole and healed!
Seated side bends (part of a Kundalini style warm-up)
Did you know that you can access On-Demand “Unity” classes on the Mindful Life app?
Even better, a monthly membership to the MLP is only $19.99!
Low lunge (Anjaneyasana) with a quad stretch!
Triangle pose (Utthita trikonasana)
Downward facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Straps are an excellent way to extend our reach! In Supta padangusthasana, using a strap can help to ensure that we don’t overstretch. Additionally, they make it easier for us to keep the back straight.
Reclined hand to big toe pose (Supta Padangusthasana)
Pigeon pose (kapo
Reclined pigeon pose (Supta kapotasana)
Reclined pigeon pose (pictured left) is a great variation of pigeon pose (pictured above) -especially if you have sensitive knees!
Both poses are an excellent way to provide the body with a hip-opening stretch!
DidyouKnow?
Chanting can help to stimulate the vagus nerve! Check out pages 38-40 for an article by Jules Allen, which details the many benefits of increased vagal tone!
According to a study published in The International Journal of Yoga, researchers found that chanting “OM” can be particularly beneficial for our health!
In fact, chanting “OM” for even as little as five minutes can promote relaxation, decrease stress, increase concentration and lower heart rate and blood pressure.
Chanting with Alex McRobs
A dream come true...almost!
By Sarah Thatcher
FOur family has now arrived home, and I begin to unpack our suitcases from our short European trip with the plan of experiencing an epic finale concert in Vienna. I sort through the glitter costumes, shorts in pale hues, which are reminiscent of the Lover Era, and socks that are sweaty from walking over countless cobblestone steps I also start the work of unpacking the heaviness of grief. For those who were not in Vienna, the news of three Taylor Swift concerts being canceled may seem trivial and uninteresting. However, for the 150,000 fans who traveled to the city for the experience, working through the deep waves of emotions are profoundly important favourite things” in the words of Maria von Trapp Our trip started in Munich with a short jaunt down to the Schwangau region in Bavaria to
or our family of four, this trip was a year in the making and was a chance for each of us to enjoy “ a few of our
fulfill my decades long wish of seeing the towering castle of Neuschwanstein in its full and enormous glory We stayed in a beautiful hotel in the quaint village filled with pretzel stands and biergartens and enjoyed incredible views of the mountaintop castle built by King Ludwig II in the late 1800’s
From Munich, we took the train to Salzburg to walk the streets of one of the most beautiful Altstadts in the world (it was named a world heritage site by UNESCO, and it was the birthplace of Mozart) and many more castles Our day in Salzburg started early with a tour on one of the many Sound of Music buses that travel throughout the region. My hubby’s continue
dream has been to sing the soundtrack of the movie where it was originally filmed, and the tour did not disappoint To the confusion of many Austrians, thousands of North Americans flock to Salzburg to sing about being “16 going on 17” and other favourites.
Our tour bus included four other groups of Swifties from around the world who were also headed to Vienna for the concerts The tour operators noted that they had seen an increase in summer tours in August this year and realized that it was due to the Swifteconomy, alive and well all over Austria.
After our quick stop in Salzburg, we took a packed fast train for three hours to Vienna to meet up with our favourite international student, who had lived with us 10 years ago in Canada It was wonderful to have her take us on a tour around the city, and we were able to enjoy a beautiful Austrian meal with her family in the sixth district of Vienna. It was at the end of the meal, when our kids started to talk about their excitement for the concert (which we were to attend on Thursday) that we began to hear that something was amiss with the approaching concerts. Our hosts were looking at each other and speaking in
hushed tones and indicated that some arrests had been made that day in Austria, but there was still much that was unknown
We left their apartment and were starting to walk back to our hotel, when our daughter’s phone began to ping with messages from around the world. Friends who were on their way traveling to Vienna or simply seeing the news at home began to reach out to us It was then that we read the only communication that had come from Taylor Swift and her team, which announced that all three concerts had been canceled due to a terrorist threat I was speechless and asked her to not look at any more messages until we arrived at the hotel I was unable to comprehend the horrible news that was being shared across the globe
Upon arriving at the hotel, I read my messages, and our Austrian friend confirmed that all three concerts had been canceled and investigations were still underway The shock and disappointment in that moment were masked with absolute disbelief This was to be our kids’ first time seeing Taylor Swift live, and it was intended to be a graduation trip for both kids, as well.
as a send off to our oldest, who is headed to college in a different province. Traveling thousands of kilometers and spending thousands of dollars to see a concert has never been something that we have attempted before Our daughter tried to get a code for a Taylor Swift concert in almost every country in the Western hemisphere, and this was the only time she was successful with a pre-sale code. Even as a Canadian, we could not get a code to the 7 concerts that Taylor has planned in our home country This was to be the kids’ dream trip to experience a world-renowned concert, and the fact that it was ripped from them is still raw for all of us
Prior to heading to the concert, I was chatting with a friend and sharing how I was so glad to be able to take my kids to Vienna to experience the power of community and love that Taylor Swift has inspired in her fans worldwide The fact that fans of all ages travel across the globe, bring gifts of friendship bracelets to share with people they have just met, and dress up for a collective experience was one of the things I was most thrilled about I believe that one of the most powerful things that Taylor has created is a sense of belonging for this generation who missed out on shared experiences as a result of the lockdowns and disappointments of the Covid-19 pandemic. Worldwide, kids and teens were not allowed to move through the motions of graduations, celebrations, or birthdays - the things that traditionally marked the end of something and the beginning of the next, giving them closure and a sense of fulfillment Swifties around the globe had been united by this feeling of belonging that a concert, an era or a song could bring them. Hearing a familiar tune would flood their minds with memories of where they
were or who they were when they first experienced it.
On Thursday, the full knowledge that we were not going to experience the concert as we had planned, started to really set in Another Canadian Swiftie and former teaching friend of ours from the Middle East had decided at the last minute to travel from Bali to Vienna, and we were so glad to add another reunion to our trip and walk through the depths of emotions with her She referred to it as another experience of #traumabonding, which had been part of our daily life when we were teaching and living in the Middle East together
We decided to take the metro to Corneliusgasse (Cornelius Street) where just days before, Swifties had left friendship bracelets on a tree and posted on social media that fans should head there to exchange these tokens and meet new friends. As we began walking through the downtown streets,
the crowds of kids - some as young as 4 years old - were dressed up in Swiftie wear with arms full of bracelets to share with others. The pain of the grief hit me deeply, as I watched kids, teens, parents and grandparents walk in disbelief to this street to take part in some semblance of normal and try to make up for this massive loss
Before we even rounded the corner of Corneliusgasse, the sound of Swifties singing in a collective voice rose over the buildings and could be heard blocks away One fan with a tiny speaker was choosing favourite songs, and thousands of fans would begin to chime in - true Swifties know every lyric to every song, and they sang at the top of their lungs to relieve some of the shock and sadness that washed over them at different moments We stood on the street for hours, and at different times, Swifties would ask to share bracelets, pulling out a bag or a pouch with handmade or store bought talismans to trade with their new friends This experience on the street acted as a sort of balm for the pain that Swifties were feeling and, for the entire weekend, the street was flanked by police officers, with bracelets on their wrists and radios in-hand They were doing their best to keep all of these fans
safe who had nowhere to go and nothing else to do
Not knowing what we would do with ourselves during our scheduled concert time, I asked our hotel if they would consider lending us an empty conference room to try and bring some normalcy to the situation and still be able to experience Taylor Swift as a group The hotel was amazing, and my daughter and I made posters to put up in the elevator announcing to other shocked fans that they could join us for a TV version of the concert. We started at 7pm (which is when the concert would have started), and 100 Swifties from our hotel and others started to stream in, fully dressed in their planned costumes, arms adorned with bracelets to share. It was the least that I could do to try and bring some joy to my family and others, as I feared that I might simply crawl into the soft hotel bed and not get out for days
Listening to the voices of littles and teens singing along to The Eras Tour, which was filmed at Sofi Stadium, flooded me with tears over and over throughout the concert My daughter’s friends, who had heard the news during their flight over to Vienna from Toronto, stopped in for the televised concert too Hopefully this experience brought them some joy in this scary and confusing time
The news and the arrests of the teenage masterminds of this attack was deeply distressing. Looking around the streets of Vienna at the innocent faces of so many little people, it is unbelievable to think of the plans that had been devised to murder as many of these fans as possible by unthinkable means. The fact that I was about to walk my family into such a massacre without any knowledge of it, is
a weight that my ‘Mom heart’ is finding very hard to bear
This vacation was planned as a huge celebration for our family and a way to spend time bonding It also served as a final trip together prior to launching our now adult child into the world. The fear that now catches in my throat when I think about my kids leaving, is something new for me, and it leaves me breathless each time Taylor’s words in her song “Never Grow Up” seem even more real now, as I, too, have the desire that my kids “ never grow up ” and “stay this simple ” Her heartfelt ballad of staying young and innocent is a profound message for her fans worldwide who have now felt a fear that they had not known before...simply for being her fans.
Just days before our departure, I was texting a friend who had a chance to see Taylor in Munich He remarked that it was a “life-changing experience” for him, and he was so excited that we were going to have that same experience soon. I am angry that our life-changing experience was very different from his, and it will shape our futures in very different ways. I worry that my kids will begin to see the world in a new way: one that is not filled with compassion, empathy or love, but filled with fear, sadness and disappointment.
The night before our flight was leaving, we headed to Corneliusgasse once more, after having wandered aimlessly through the streets of Vienna. Thousands of fans
gathered together again, and as we raised our phones and voices to sing along with the united sounds of Swifties from across the globe, I looked up and saw the sky painted for us in the pale hues of blue, pink and purple They were hinting that love will prevail in this era too.
As I work through mountains of clean laundry, I am grateful to be back safely in my home thinking of Swifties worldwide, with Taylor’s lyrics ringing in my ear, “You can do it with a broken heart ”
The Mindful Life Practice Celebrated its 4th Anniversary with...
By Sarah Millman
aVirtualYogaParty!!
The Mindful Life Practice celebrated its 4th anniversary this year on March 17th! To help commemorate this joyous occasion, many former YTT graduates joined Alex McRobs in hosting a yoga party on Zoom. Each yoga teacher taught a portion of a vinyasa flow class! The transitions between each instructor were flawless, and it was a great way to come together and honor a community that means so much to us all.
PoemtocelebratetheMLPC’s4thAnniversary
WrittenbySarahMillman
“Being able to be a part of the ‘4th year anniversary yoga party’ was such a beautiful experience - to be able to teach alongside other MLPC members who I’ve been in different programs with, and a few who have become some of my best friends, was incredible!
And Alex - I can’t say enough about how much gratitude and love I have for her. It was so beautiful and touching that she brought her community together in such a deep and connected way and trusted us to deliver a beautiful and seamless class to the rest of the community It was a moment I will always remember and cherish ”
~Kristen Hutchinson
Page 75
Dear Sober Coach
By Sarah Williamson
MeetSoberCoachSarah:
Sarah has spent the last 15 years coaching and mentoring people who've struggled with their addictions and mental health, and she knows that choosing to change your relationship with alcohol before you hit rock bottom is a powerful and positive choice to make
Sarah is passionate about spreading the message that our lives can be joyful and fun on the other side of our drinking careers, and there's no need to feel lonely, stressed or bored on this journey
Dear Sober Coach Sarah,
https://www drinklesslivebetter com mybook to/drinklesslivebetter
https://www instagram com/drinklesslivebetter
https://www facebook com/sarahwilliamsonofficial
Summer hasn’t gone how I planned I thought I was going to have a “Dry July” and an “Alcohol-Free August,” but ‘life’ got in the way, and now I am feeling worse about my relationship with alcohol than I did a few months ago.
I feel like giving up on trying to be sober I feel like I’ve failed, and I feel like everyone else can do this, and I will NEVER be able to
Do you think I should just forget about the whole “sober thing” for now and come back and try again next year when life is a bit calmer?
Thanks for any thoughts.
Love from GD, USA
FindSarahonlineat:
Thank you for your message. I’m so delighted to hear from you and happy to share a few thoughts.
I don’t know what happened over the summer for you that felt like ‘life got in the way, ’ and I’m really sorry to hear that things might have been less than ideal or hard to navigate for you. That sounds difficult.
It’s hard when you ’ re navigating difficult things at the same time as dealing with the inner turmoil around your relationship with alcohol.
A couple of truths first:
Alcohol will invariably make the ‘tricky to deal with’ even trickier
Alcohol will add fuel to the overthinking, inner fire that’s already burning
And then the softness:
You’re feeling “ worse about your relationship with alcohol now than you did a few months ago?” Sure – of course you are! You thought you were going to do something different, and you haven’t, and that’s disappointing.
“I feel like giving up on trying to be sober. I feel like I’ve failed, I feel like everyone else can do this, and I will NEVER be able to.”
Wow – that must be some difficult inner talk to listen to on repeat How can you choose to be a bit more gentle with yourself?
How about “I am navigating life I am learning about what does and doesn’t
work for me. I am watching other people and being inspired by them I am choosing to work on myself and that takes time and energy I am working on my goals day by day ”
“Do you think I should just forget about the whole ”sober thing” for now and come back and try again next year when life is a bit calmer?” No I don’t None of us can ever guarantee that tomorrow, next week, a month, or even a year from now will be calmer There is only ever today If what you have been doing up until now hasn’t worked though, perhaps it’s time to try something else? What have you been doing that HASN’T worked, and what haven’t you tried YET?
Make yourself part of an online sober community, download an app to support you, cross the days off your calendar, keep a journal, find distractions, go to sober events or meet ups in your area, speak to a counsellor, understand your inner turmoil and process your emotions, listen to sober podcasts, read quit-lit, watch documentaries or films to inspire you, go to AA or SMART recovery, and/or engage the services of a sober coach
Choose something and do it Start again today and don’t wait.
I hope this helps
Love, Sober Coach Sarah
Mindful Life
Student Interview
By Sarah Millman
Meet Juliet! Juliet just graduated from the Mindful Life Practice’s 200 Hour
Yoga Teacher Training in Bali in the summer of 2024.
In addition to learning all about yoga and celebrating her 2-year soberversary with the MLPC during her time in Indonesia, Juliet’s passion for learning was also ignited when she was exposed to such practices as hypnotherapy and sound healing during her time in Bali. As Juliet has been an educator for the past 25 years, there is no doubt that she will continue to learn more about yoga and these healing practices -in addition to considering how she can bring what she has learned into her work in education!
I decided to interview Juliet in order to learn a little bit more about journey with sobriety, healing, yoga and the MLPC!
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
At home, just south of Houston, Texas, my husband and I live in a small suburban neighborhood near the water Our lives are busy with work. I am a school teacher and am close to retirement.
We have all girls. I have a 27-year-old daughter who lives just ten minutes from me and is also a teacher, and she has a two-year-old girl: my first grandbaby I also have two stepdaughters from a previous marriage They are 25 and 23, and they are living busy lives on their own. My husband also has two daughters One is 21, and she is finishing college in Atlanta, and the other is 16 and living with her mom in a small town near Chicago So, we are essentially empty nesters.
Whenever I’m not at work or at the yoga studio, I am usually fiddling in my garden or
lounging by the pool with my adoring cat and my ancient dog who are both content to follow me wherever I wander.
We love to host parties and since my husband and I met on Halloween, we really have fun dressing up in costumes for most any occasion.
Is there anything that you would like to share about your sobriety and/or your experiences with the MLPC before completing the YTT?
When I was walking through a park at a summer teacher conference in 2023, I noticed a sign that read: “No Alcohol Beyond This Point” and in that moment, it occurred to me: “Holy cow I’ve been sober for exactly one year today!”
It stopped me in my tracks. It was a sign: a sign that I will never go back
I will never go back to the toxic life that I had accepted in my past: a life of constantly telling my family “I will only drink on the weekends” and then opening
another bottle on a Tuesday night.
I will never go back to promising, “I won’t drink too much this time” and then finding myself knee walking while drunk at 2:30 in the afternoon followed by more drinking that night followed by waking up the next day mortified that I couldn’t remember the horrific embarrassment that I had caused my family and friends the night before.
I will never go back to the way that I felt every time I looked in the mirror. I hated myself: my skin looked so unhealthy, and my body was bloated from binge drinking daily.
I will never go back to feeling like I didn’t have anything else to soothe my pain besides grabbing another bottle, and feeling sick and exhausted EVERY SINGLE DAY.
In that moment I realized, ‘No Alcohol Beyond This Point’, means NONE. Ever. Again. Because just one was never enough I was DONE
So as I celebrated my first sober anniversary
alone in San Antonio, Texas, I vowed to myself to continue my sobriety forever and permanently commit to the healthy change in my life that I had started one year before I felt an internal shift in that moment, and I’ve never looked back.
Back home in Houston, days after seeing my sign in the park, I was excitedly sharing about my year of sobriety with a teacher friend as we floated in my backyard pool I was giddy, as I shared about my renewed love of yoga: a practice that I had embraced over the past few months
My friend Connie chimed in, “You should really connect with my friend, Alex!” Connie told me all about this woman with whom she used to teach overseas, and how she leads sober yoga retreats across the globe I was immediately enthralled
As I explored Alex’s website, “The Mindful Life Practice,” and saw her exciting retreats around the world, I found myself daydreaming about the possibility of attending. However, I started to find all kinds of excuses as to why I couldn’t
After some time, I noticed that there was a 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Certification
program with Alex that was happening in Bali during the following summer the perfect time for a teacher like me. But, a month away from my husband was unthinkable. I mean, how could I, a lowly teacher from the suburbs of Houston, possibly consider going across the planet to become a yoga teacher?
Despite my excuses, I excitedly showed my husband Alex’s website that night and recounted all of her amazing adventures, and we both swooned at the thought of me getting my yoga certification in Bali “Oh wow, that would be so cool! But too bad it lasts for an entire month. That’s too long to be away ” My husband quickly pointed out that the price of the certification and the stay in Bali was reasonable, which made the idea seem even more plausible But I didn’t dare to dream of such a luxury just for me!
A passion for yoga
I’ve always had a lingering love for yoga. I can’t remember the first time that I was introduced to the idea, but I do recall attending my first yoga class as a young adult, and I remember how much I enjoyed the way that my body felt, as well as the peace that came along with the process
During the first 22 years of my teaching career, I taught Theatre and would often begin my classes with a yoga warm-up or a meditation However, that was the extent of my yoga practice
After reaching the first anniversary of my sobriety, I decided I was ready to find a yoga studio to attend regularly I tried several local studios, but none of them seemed to fit until I walked into “Rasa School of Ayurveda ” I immediately felt at
home and quickly discovered that there was much more to yoga than movement and postures I learned so much, and I participated in classes on yoga philosophy as well as asana (postures) and meditation
I loved meditation so much that I decided to complete a course to become certified in Advanced Meditation. At the same time, I explored options on how to gain my yoga teacher certification: a personal goal that I was excited to fulfill I couldn’t quite decide on which program to complete, as my studio had a variety of different Masters path programs. However, Alex‘s Bali retreat, and The Mindful Life Practice kept calling to me.
A transformative decision
Then one night in September, just a few months after my ‘sign in the park,’ my husband and I were attending a community event at my yoga studio
“My time during the Mindful Life Practice’s 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training was beautiful, transformative, healing, and magical! I will treasure this unique experience for the rest of my life.”
We were chatting away with several young yoga instructors, and one of them lamented to her colleague, “Gosh, it would’ve been so amazing if we could have gotten our certifications in someplace special like Bali.” My husband and I immediately locked eyes “Did you tell them?” he whispered to me. But I had never shared Alex’s information with anyone
“You’re going!” my husband announced to me on the ride home that night “This opportunity in Bali with Alex is special, and you deserve this ” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, and tears were streaming down my face, as I realized that my dream was about to become a reality
And one year later, I found myself celebrating my second soberversary in Bali with Alex and a group of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever known: a group of women from around the world who came together with the same purpose, and who understood firsthand the joys of being sober This selfless gift of love from my husband has been the most transformative experience of my life, and it has forever changed me for the better
What was your experience like during the MLPC 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Bali? What did you learn from the experience?
My time during the Mindful Life Practice’s 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training was beautiful, transformative, healing, and magical! I will treasure this unique
experience for the rest of my life. Alex is such a delightful force who shares her gifts with love. She is an absolute joy to be around
During the YTT, we started each day with a sunrise meditation, and I found myself so excited that I would wake up extra early, eager to greet the day I loved our meditation sessions, and I felt like each one opened up new experiences for me. After breakfast, we would do a 90-minute yoga class, and the sessions varied throughout the 3-week program, as we had three assistant teachers and guest instructors. Every teacher brought something new and exciting to share I found the more I learned, the more I realized I didn’t know. But that just made me even more ravenous to learn everything! I really connected with a class that was taught by a local yoga instructor who had been trained by Alex, Ali Diwaji The class moved at a slower pace, which felt so soothing to my body I also felt like the easy
flow and the meditative nature of the movement made the class seem more accessible. As Ali taught, he mentioned that he often invites people to do yoga with him around his pool, and he has everyone bring a dish to share brunch afterwards. I lit up at this idea, and I can’t wait to do the same at my own home, back in Houston.
We also had a hypnotherapist, Khaled Bayad, come to the YTT. As soon as the hypnotherapy meditation session ended, I excitedly burst out, “I have to learn how to do this!”
Our assistant teachers, who were three former YTT students, were so inspiring, and I absolutely loved the variety of instruction and everything that each of them brought to the table. When we were introduced to chair yoga, by one of the teaching assistants, I knew exactly how I could use it in the future, as my father is in a retirement home, and he and many of the people that he lives with are extremely physically limited.
Learning about the body: from bones, to muscles, to our nervous system was also fascinating The variety of teaching styles made our classes fun and interesting!
Honestly, my time during the Bali YTT was the best educational experience that I’ve ever had and, as a teacher of 25 years, education means a lot to me. Throughout the program, I kept thinking, “Oh wow! I’ve got to bring these ideas back for my students.”
Additionally, I loved taking a deeper dive into all of the other aspects of yoga from breathwork to philosophy to all of the other topics that we covered. I started to notice pretty early on that there was a profound shift
within our YTT group as we connected the yoga philosophy with our own lives. We were all so intentional, focused, thoughtful and mindful We began to appreciate each other and ourselves on a deeper level, which fostered a better connection and energy in the group than I think any of us ever expected.
The bond that was shared between all of the women became stronger and more powerful. It’s hard to put into words the energy that was created between all of us, but it was magical Likewise, I felt a shift in myself that was profound. Very quickly, I noticed that I was becoming stronger and more independent, and all
of the stress of my daily life simply disappeared. I found myself daydreaming about big plans for my future and creating realistic and achievable plans of action. I journaled daily, which is not a usual habit for me. As we would often end a class with a brief journal prompt, I started to notice how much I got out of the experience and just added it to my morning routine.
Learning beyond the classroom
However, the learning did not end for me in our little compound On our days off, I would make my way out of our small village and into the bustling city of Ubud. I was amazed to learn that the word “Ubud” means “medicine,” and since ancient times, all of Indonesia would send their people to Ubud to be healed. There are generations of healers in the city, and the opportunity to learn is endless.
I saw Pappa first, an acupressure healer who worked absolute magic on me, and he insisted that my husband visit him when he came to join me for a week after my training
ended. I also visited a Balinese yoga studio with some of the other girls in our group, and I had the most fascinating experience learning meditation and asana practice in a beautiful hand-built yoga shala. I saw a Balinese Astrologist and visited the Pyramids of Chi. I was honored to visit multiple water temples, where locals led us through Balinese rituals in fresh spring waters
But my favorite local teacher led a Sound Healing at Lumeria. The husband, a Shaman Java, and his wife, a healer from Japan, worked as a team and created a gorgeous environment that illuminated our senses and created a safe space for us to meditate, as we lay on our mats being moved by the powerful sounds that they created. And again, I felt compelled to learn this art form and find a way to incorporate it into my own practice.
Do you have any new and exciting plans now that you have your Yoga Teacher certification?
Moving forward with all that I have learned, I have so many plans. I want to use my YTT certification and participate in more trainings.
First, I am excited to implement my training at my Dad’s retirement community by teaching gentle chair yoga. I am also planning on extending an open invite to my friends to come to Sunrise Yoga around the pool at my house. I will just ask them each to bring a breakfast dish to share, and we’ll have a nonalcoholic brunch together after our practice. I also have several small weekend retreats in the works, where I will be working with 2-3 ladies at a time.
However, I’m most excited about implementing my training in the classroom. As a veteran teacher of 25 years and a teaching mentor for the last 20 years, I see a wonderful
opportunity to implement this learning in the educational environment
I am excited to marry my passion for teaching and yoga on a grander scale, and I’m currently signed up to teach “Mindfulness in the Classroom,” at a conference this Fall where I will teach teachers and administrators how to implement yoga philosophy in the classroom My plan is to continue to spread this mindful philosophy of teaching to school districts and conferences nationwide and hopefully lead me to expand my career in a meaningful way that can help and heal others
Do you have any advice for anyone who is sober-curious or new to sobriety?
I was someone who was living fully in denial of my addiction I was using alcohol to avoid dealing with my pain from a life of trauma and abuse, and I was blissfully unaware of how bad my addiction had become.
For me, the initial turning point was getting healthy and choosing to give up alcohol in order to regain my health. It wasn’t until I realized that I had stayed sober for a year that I was able to reflect on and own my previous addiction.
So if you’re reading this and thinking “Yeah I don’t have a drinking problem “ Okay, I you, that’s cool. But WHAT IF you just dec to give a sober curious lifestyle a try and see how it feels in your body? Just take it day at a time, and allow your body to ha break from alcohol and ‘get healthy ’ You find that your sober self is someone you li lot better, and very likely, you’ll find that body feels better
What would you say to someone who considering participating in a Yoga Teach Training program, but isn’t completely sur it is right for him/her?
If you have ever entertained the thought of pursuing a yoga teacher certification, whether to teach at a local studio or simply for the pleasure of learning more for your personal benefit, I say GO FOR IT! I spent my whole life thinking I didn’t deserve this, or I wasn’t good enough for that, but what I gained from this experience is something
that no one can ever take away from me
I am eternally grateful to Alex, and I am forever changed by this exquisite moment in my life. Everything from the classes, to the
Balinese culture, to the gorgeous immersion into nature and all of the magical experiences that Bali had to offer made this by far one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
Everyone deserves to have an experience like this in their lives Everyone deserves to nourish and celebrate themselves: body, mind, and spirit. They deserve to discover the very essence of who they are and celebrate that essence while surrounded by other women who desire to do the same
Yoga is so much more than what we do on the mat. Yoga is a powerful way to live, and I, for one, am grateful for all that it offers.
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Words from Mindful Life Practice Members
Here’s what our community members have to say!
“I never wanted to do yoga, especially not in Ubud! I thought it was for people “not like me,” and when I would see the people in the studios, I was certain I did not want to be like them
Then one day, I met a Balinese man named Agung who had built a yoga shala at the back of his house in lockdown. One pertinent question later, Agung began sharing Kriya yoga with me each morning before the sun came up.
What this kind man shared with me has changed the course of my life Then I had a chance opportunity to become a yoga teacher with @alexmcrobs & @themindfullifepractice .
Let’s safely say all the things I thought yoga was, it is not And when’ I’m wrong, I say I’m wrong
Thank you to Agung & Alex. Both have been mountains in my world.”
- Emma Dhanelle Kearney
“Sunset from BALI with love! Another day of transformation I would not be here without my son Judson and my daughter Candace. And I would not be here without Alex from The Mindful Life Practice who brought me to the beautiful world of being alcohol free There is so much more to this than words can ever say Such a deep transformation that you can only understand if you try the sober curious journey.... ❤��. ”
Jami Hanna
“I had a phenomenal experience with Alex and the Mindful Life Practice YTT 200 Alex provided high quality class materials, face to face instruction, supportive feedback and a shared love and respect for yoga Alex was consistently present and committed to the learning and wellbeing of our group. The Mindful Life Practice is a gift to the global yoga and alcohol free community I will be forever grateful for my time in Alex’ s YTT ”
~Jane Ballard
THE 3OO HOUR YTT NewFormatisSix,50 HourModules
If you are curious for more growth in your yoga teaching, this is for you!
Each Module is $600 USD, Total for all is $3200
After completing the 300 Hour YTT, you have an opportunity to apply to assist Alex in the future on the 200 Hour programs here in Bali or online!
Options:
1. Online Modules once a week for several weeks
2 In Person Intensive Modules (6 Days per course)
3. In Person Intensive (3 Weeks Total in Bali + The Yoga & Entrepreneurship Course After)
Module 1: Pranayama for Mental Wellbeing
Module 2: Meditation for Mental Wellbeing
Module 3: Asana Adjustments & Assists
Module 4: Yoga Sutra Study Chapters 1 & 2
Module 5: Yoga Sutra Study Chapters 3 & 4 Module
Visit https://www themindfullifepractice com/modules-300-hour-ytt to register for the program option that works best for you!
UPCOMING EVENTS “SoberGirlsClub”onSundays
Free for members of our app. $10 for nonmembers
6am PST / 9am EST / 5pm GST / 9pm AWST
September 1st: Simmone
I met Simmone when I taught yoga for the Sobah Sistahs retreat this past April in Bali. Simmone recently hit one year sober, so I wanted to have her come share her story with us!! She said, "I was sick of wasting beautiful days, having hangxiety and making myself physically sick with alcohol " She loves to workout, find trails for nice long walks and watch crime shows! I am so excited to hear Simmone's story! Join us for a check in, meditation and then Simmone will share her story!
September 15th: Rebecca
Rebecca started her sober journey in 2005 through AA and, at that time, she was also introduced to yoga. In 2020, she had a transformative moment when she decided to change recovery pathways and find different communities for support and guidance. She incorporated more yogic philosophy into her recovery and started working towards becoming a yoga therapist. Join us for a check in and meditation followed by Rebecca’s story!
September 8th: Melissa
I met Melissa when she visited Bali on a Sobriety Sisterhood retreat in 2022! She then went on to join the online 200 Hour YTT. Melissa’s journey started in January of 2021 when she decided to try sobriety to improve her mental health. Over the past 3.5 years, sobriety has not only helped Melissa manage her anxiety but has made every aspect of her life better She is now living a life she only could’ve dreamed of pre-sobriety. Join us for a check in, meditation and then Melissa will share
Book All Our Live Online Classes Here: https://themindfullifepractice.uscreen.io/categories/live-classes
UPCOMING EVENTS “SoberGirlsClub”onSundays
Free for members of our app. $10 for nonmembers
6am PST / 9am EST / 5pm GST / 9pm AWST
September 22nd: Juliet
Juliet attended our Bali 200 Hour YTT this past July. She is a positive, uplifting person who loves everyone. She is an educator and has been a teaching mentor for two decades She lives in Texas. Juliet recently hit two years sober and shared her story at our YTT, which was inspiring, moving and vulnerable. Join us for a check in, meditation and then Juliet will share.
September 29th: Monthly Reflection & Goal Setting
At the end of every month, we gather to reflect and set goals Join us for this journal prompt, meditation and sharing about our successes and setbacks in September.
Book All Our Live Online Classes Here: https://themindfullifepractice.uscreen.io /categories/live-classes
Weekly classes with Sarah Millman
Sarah, a former graduate of the MLPC 200 Hour YTT is offering two free classes on Zoom during September
-Vinyasa Flow class: Sundays at 7am PST /10am EST / 6pm GST.
-”Living our Yoga” class: Sundays at 4pm PST /7pm EST and Mondays at 7am AWST This class is comprised of a check-in, meditation, discussion and journaling activity centered on Rolf Gates’ book, Meditations from the Mat.
To participate, please join the MLPC WhatsApp community for registration information
UPCOMING EVENTS PopUpYoga
Free for members of our app. $20 for nonmembers
6am PST / 9am EST / 5pm GST / 9pm AWST
Saturday, August 31st: New Moon, New Beginnings - Yoga & Ceremony
A new moon occurs when the moon is directly between Earth and the sun. The new moon phase is an introspective time and represents new beginnings as we plant seeds for the future. It's a good time to set intentions for the month ahead, clarify goals, and acknowledge your growth in the previous month!
Join Alex for this special online event open to men and women, sober and not! After a 30 minute yoga flow designed to help you get grounded, we’ll sit together for a 30 minute mantra based meditation practice. We’ll end with a journaling and sharing practice designed to help set intentions for the next lunar phase. This will be a 90 minute practice: a 30 minute yoga practice, a 30 minute meditation, and a 30 minute sharing circle.
Set up with a yoga mat, and bring mala beads with you for the meditation, if you have some. If not, they are not needed! You will also need a journal and a pen.
UPCOMING EVENTS PopUpYoga
Saturday, September 21st: The Harvest Moon Yoga & Ceremony Free for members of our app. $20 for nonmembers
6am PST / 9am EST / 5pm GST / 9pm AWST
The Harvest Moon falls nearest to the fall equinox, and this moon rises around sunset every night, to give the farmers several extra evenings of moonlight and allows them to finish their harvests before the frosts of fall arrive
The Harvest Moon is designed to increase your spiritual wellness just in time for the fall The spiritual meaning of the harvest moon is often connected to themes of abundance, appreciation, and the completion of a cycle Some astrologers believe that the harvest moon serves as a reminder to express gratitude for what you currently have and celebrate the end of a journey.
Join us for this special full moon, Harvest Moon themed practice on September 21st (a few days after the full moon as I have a retreat!) After a yoga flow, we'll do a mantra meditation, journaling and sharing.
Set up with a yoga mat, and bring a small bowl of water. You will also need a journal and a pen.
UPCOMING EVENTS
OfftheMat:SustainingPractices
A 10 Week Program. Starts September 2. Live Meetings at 7pm EST on Mondays or 7am BST on Mondays. $250 or two payments of $150.
Sign Up Here: https://www.themindfullifepractice.com/yamas-and-niyamas
During this class we will:
Engage in a deep discussion around the Yamas and Niyamas every week, to gain a better understanding of your values, relationships, and behaviours, as they align to living yoga, leading to a deeper sense of self.
After the discussion, you'll receive three practices each week themed around the niyama/yama of focus, and one meditation. These will help you integrate and embody the teachings. Additionally,
This will...
Help you develop a strong spiritual foundation for your life and improve your relationships with others.
Lead to spiritual growth, personal growth and improve your well being.
Help you develop a regular asana practice and meditation practice. If you are a yoga teacher, this class will help your classes become more profound, meaningful and resonant with your students. You will truly start to embody your yoga.
This class is suitable for beginners at yoga who are new to yoga philosophy, as well as those who want a refresh! Yoga Teachers, as well as Yoga Students. It counts as a 20 Hour CEC (Continuing Education Credit) if you are a Registered Yoga Teacher with the Yoga Alliance. If you are later interested in taking the Yoga Sutra Study or Yoga Teacher Training, this is a great foundation.
SoberYogaGirl
SelfCompassion,EquanimityandtheSoberJourneywithJadeLee:
I am thrilled to be sitting down with Jade Lee in this episode and learning more about her sober story Jade participated in the Sober Girls Yoga 30 & 60 Day Challenge early in her sober journey and has been a member of our community for a long time!
In this episode, she shares about her sober story, and her recent vipassana meditation experience Jade completed the Everest base camp trek in Nepal many years ago, where she met her now husband. Jade also talks about how the vipassana meditation retreat experience aligned with her sober journey, and what she learned about life while doing it
https://www.themindfullifepractice.com/podcast
SoberSocialwithMocktailMommy:
I loved recording this episode with Kristi Tanner, aka Mocktail Mommy, live as part of Sober Girls Club Kristi is a powerhouse of a woman and such an inspiration Living in Wisconsin, Kristi found herself a single mom of four children under the age of five during the pandemic. In this episode, she tells her story of where she came from - and how she overcame it all - to start Sober Social, her new non alcoholic bar in Wisconsin. You can find Kristi on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mocktailmommy.
HavingtheCouragetoStartAgainwithEmilyKilleen
I loved recording this episode with Emily Killeen. Emily is a sober community leader who I have collaborated with in the past, and I previously had her on the show a few years ago, when she shared her inspiring sober story The theme of our discussion on this episode, which was recorded live in Sober Girls Club, was what it really means to be "Happy, Sober and Free," but when I reflect back on the talk, the theme that really showed up for me was having the courage to start again
When we last connected over three years ago, Emily had built up her dream of building her own retreat centre with her then husband. Since then, her husband left her, they sold the retreat centre, and she’s left her entrepreneurship career to start a new career as a sober companion What I truly admire in this episode is Emily’s vulnerable share, her standing in her truth, and really demonstrating for all of us what it means to have the courage to start again Emily can be found here: https://www.emilykilleen.com/#/
