The Nectar Yoga Blog: Best Yoga and Pilates Poses, Health and Wellness Tips, Herbal Recipes — Nectar Yoga

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Andrea Clark

Begin with Stilness: Why Stillness Matters, How to Calm Down, and Relaxation Techniques

Begin with Stilness: Why Stillness Matters, How to Calm Down, and Relaxation Techniques

As a new year unfolds, we are often pulled toward action—goal setting, planning, doing. But what if the most profound way to begin is to pause? To intentionally step into stillness and allow rest to guide the way? In this quiet beginning, we can reset, align with ourselves, and set a sustainable tone for the year ahead.

The yamas, the first of yoga’s eightfold path, remind us of ethical principles that support inner stillness. For example, Ahimsa (non-harming) encourages us to approach ourselves with compassion, letting go of harsh expectations or fear-based beliefs to “do more” and instead allowing space for stillness so that clarity can emerge. By embodying this principle, we create a foundation for the year that is kind, balanced, and sustainable.

Stillness is not passive; it is rich with possibility. Pausing allows the nervous system to regulate, creating space for our minds and bodies to align naturally. It’s in these moments of quiet reflection that we build the foundation for intentional living. Instead of rushing into the year fueled by adrenaline, we can ground ourselves in practices that invite relaxation and clarity.

The Healing Scent of the Forest: The Uplifting Douglas Fir

The Healing Scent of the Forest: The Uplifting Douglas Fir

Douglas Fir essential oil carries a fresh, invigorating aroma that evokes the crisp scent of a forest after rainfall. This uplifting fragrance is dominated by terpenes like α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene, which give it a sharp, pine-like quality that is both grounding and energizing. The combination of these terpenes lends Douglas Fir oil its signature clean, woody scent, which can also have subtle hints of citrus, resinous-meets-green-apple sweetness.

The therapeutic qualities of Douglas Fir oil are deeply connected to its molecular structure. α-pinene, known for its anti-inflammatory and respiratory benefits, supports clear breathing and mental clarity. β-pinene is celebrated for its ability to promote relaxation while providing an aromatic bridge to feelings of openness and peace. Limonene, found in the oil, offers a bright, citrus-like note that uplifts the spirit and helps combat stress and anxiety, making it particularly beneficial for emotional balance and mood enhancement.

Ferns are part of a group of plants known as Pteridophytes, which include over 10,000 species. Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce through spores and do not produce seeds or flowers. These ancient plants played a significant role in shaping our planet’s ecosystems, and according to the Australian National University, some modern-day coal deposits are believed to be remnants of ancient fern forests.

The fern’s resilience lies in their adaptability. Species like the Bracken Fern and the Staghorn Fern can survive in harsh conditions, including poor soil and limited sunlight, making them a symbol of endurance and perseverance.

Ancient Beauties: Ferns and Where to Find Them On Bowen

Ancient Beauties: Ferns and Where to Find Them On Bowen

Ferns, among the oldest plant species on Earth, are nature’s quiet survivors. With origins dating back more than 360 million years, they’ve thrived through major environmental shifts, even outlasting dinosaurs. Today, these graceful plants can be found in forests, gardens, and homes, offering both beauty and environmental benefits.

Ferns are part of a group of plants known as Pteridophytes, which include over 10,000 species. Unlike flowering plants, ferns reproduce through spores and do not produce seeds or flowers. These ancient plants played a significant role in shaping our planet’s ecosystems, and according to the Australian National University, some modern-day coal deposits are believed to be remnants of ancient fern forests.

The fern’s resilience lies in their adaptability. Species like the Bracken Fern and the Staghorn Fern can survive in harsh conditions, including poor soil and limited sunlight, making them a symbol of endurance and perseverance.

Relaxation Techniques Rooted in Nature: Forest Bathing with Alder Trees on Bowen Island

Relaxation Techniques Rooted in Nature: Forest Bathing with Alder Trees on Bowen Island

Spending Time with Trees Reduces Cortisol Levels

Welcome to Nectar Yoga Retreat’s wellness blog, where we explore holistic and yoga practices that deepen your connection to nature, self and other relations. If you’ve been on this journey with us, this year on our wellness blog, we’ve been focusing on the mind-body-spirit benefits of plants and certain fungi. This month, we’re spotlighting the alder trees residing on the forest where Nectar is located, and the therapeutic practice of forest bathing with these majestic trees.

The Healing Power of Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku" from its Japanese origins, is more than just a walk in the woods. It’s a mindful practice of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, engaging all the senses, and finding solace in one’s relationality with all of nature. Studies have shown that being among alder trees and other trees in the form of forest bathing significantly lowers cortisol levels—the body’s primary stress hormone. This reduction in cortisol is linked to decreased blood pressure, improved mood, and enhanced immune function, making forest bathing one of the most effective relaxation techniques available.

Exploring Turkey Tail Mushroom: Benefits, Identification, and Uses from Bowen Island's Premier Wellness Retreat

Exploring Turkey Tail Mushroom: Benefits, Identification, and Uses from Bowen Island's Premier Wellness Retreat

Read below to learn more about Turkey Tail mushroom, including:

  • Turkey tail mushroom benefits

  • Turkey tail mushroom identification and look alikes

  • Turkey tail mushroom benefits for skin

  • Where to buy Turkey tail mushroom

  • Turkey tail’s spiritual significance

  • Nectar’s own adaptogenic chai recipe with Turkey tail mushroom

Nectar Yoga Explores Burdock Benefits, Recipes, and the Spirituality of the Plant

Read below to learn more about Burdock, including:

  • What Burdock looks like

  • How to forage for Burdock

  • The versatility of Burdock and why it's often recommended by herbalists

  • A profile of what burdock root tastes like

  • Various methods for preparing Burdock at home, including five nourishing (and delicious) recipes, including a Burdock Root tea recipe and how to make kinpira gobo (braised Burdock Root).

  • and more

Nectar Yoga Explores Isvara Pranidhana: Surrendering to the Sacred

Nectar Yoga Explores Isvara Pranidhana: Surrendering to the Sacred

At its core, Isvara Pranidhana calls upon us to release our grip on the illusion of control. The practice urges us to let go of the ceaseless pursuit of ego-driven ambitions and the false belief in our hyper-individuality-based abilities. Here at Nectar Yoga Retreat, sitting with humility as a teacher is a lifelong journey.

Picking Dandelions: When to Harvest and How to Make Dandelion Root Coffee and Dandelion Tea

Picking Dandelions: When to Harvest and How to Make Dandelion Root Coffee and Dandelion Tea

While all parts of the plant are edible, each should be harvested at specific times for optimal flavor. Here’s how to get the best leaves, roots, and flowers from your dandelions.

Drinking a coffee substitute made from dandelion root benefits you by providing a nutritious hot drink without caffeine.