By Joleen

Hi Friends! Oh my gosh—if yoga is brand new to you, this is the start of something wonderful! I’m so thrilled you’re here! Whether you’ve heard little whispers about how yoga can make you feel amazing, or you’re just plain curious about what all the buzz is about—Welcome! You’re in the right place, and you’ve got yourself a front-row seat to a journey that’s all about YOU. Now, I know that yoga can feel a bit…well, intimidating, right? All those bendy people out there, folding themselves into pretzel shapes! But here’s the scoop: yoga is for every single body—no fancy...

As a yogi with over two decades of practice and a decade of teaching, I’ve discovered the beauty of merging my passion for yoga with my love for creating art from repurposed materials. Working with discarded books, repurposed paper, and magazines destined for recycling has become a meaningful way to contribute to reducing waste. Recently, I undertook a transformative project at Big Raven Farm, our yoga retreat center, which led me to an unexpected meditation practice through the simple act of book folding. The process of folding thousands of pages into simple, elegant cylinders brought me a tranquility I had...

Welcome, dear readers, to a tranquil journey towards restful nights and rejuvenating sleep. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's essential to carve out a moment for self-care. What better way to unwind than with a soothing yoga sequence designed to prepare your body and mind for a night of deep, restorative sleep?  So, roll out your Big Raven yoga mat, slip into your comfiest yoga attire–or PJ’s and let's embark on this gentle adventure together. Child's Pose (Balasana): Begin in a comfortable seated position, then gently lower your torso forward, extending your arms in front of...

Crafting for Everyone The idea that crafting is exclusively for artists or creatives is a common misconception. In reality, crafting is about creativity and personal expression, which we all possess in some form. Paper crafting, in particular, is a wonderful starting point. It’s simple, requires minimal tools, and the results can be stunning. I’ve met many who started their crafting journey later in life, finding a newfound passion and a community of like-minded individuals. Here’s the best part: there is no ‘right’ way to do any of it.  Embrace the imperfections in your creations – they add character and uniqueness....

There's something to be said for getting away from it all, even if it's just for a few days. And while a retreat might seem like a luxury, the peace and tranquility of nature can be a powerful force in your life — one that leaves you more grounded and refreshed than ever before. Here are several reasons why it's a great idea to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature: Restoration and Reconnection: Nature has a unique ability to restore and replenish our energy levels. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immersing yourself in...