Theme of the week: Recapitulation
Classes Taught: 8
This week has been filled with moments of deep reflection and growth, anchored in the theme of recapitulation. The practice was a therapeutic opportunity for my students and also allowed me to look back at situations I needed to work through, reclaiming parts of myself that were lost along the way. It’s been a grounding and empowering experience, and I’m reminded of how important it is to make space for these reflections in our lives.
One challenge this week was the Aries Full Moon, which amplified my natural Aries tendency toward impulsivity. While I usually welcome the fiery energy of Aries, this time, it threw me a little off balance. It led me to make some quick decisions and question my approach to a few things. It's a reminder that even though this energy can be powerful and productive, it can also make me feel scattered if I’m not mindful.
My biggest challenge of the week was having to cancel Pause The Week on Wednesday due to low numbers. We had four bookings and three same-day cancellations, so we couldn't run it. It is the first time I've had to decide to cancel, and it didn't feel good. But I know deep down that creating safe spaces for women to feel supported is essential work, and I am committed to continuing and adapting, knowing that the right people will come when they need it most.
Glimmers of the week
On a more joyful note, the October sunshine has been a beautiful companion this week, filling me with peace and gratitude. I also had the pleasure of covering Jo’s Yoga Nidra class at TBIS on Thursday night, which was such a fulfilling experience. It was a lovely opportunity to step in and share a practice that I deeply believe in.
I recorded the practice later at home, and you can enjoy it here:
This week also brought some fantastic feedback from students, for which I’m always so grateful. Hearing how my work makes a difference always lifts my spirits and reminds me why I do what I do.
I also made some lovely connections with people from the Witch Festival, and a few are already hoping to join me for yoga and retreats. It’s exciting to see these circles expanding.
The week culminated with Women's Circle, our monthly gathering. Always a highlight in my month.
This month, our theme was Samhain, letting go and included the story of the Cailleach. You can listen to the story in the video below, where I share the powerful myth of the Cailleach, the ancient Crone goddess of winter and transformation. As we celebrate Samhain—the time of letting go and clearing space for new beginnings—I retell this story as a reminder that endings are a vital part of the cycle of life. The Cailleach teaches us to release what no longer serves us, allowing new growth to emerge.
I’m looking forward to a mini-retreat on Wednesday morning, designed especially for yoga teachers. It’s going to be a precious time for self-care and reflection. And, of course, our Samhain mini-retreats at The Pod on Saturday, October 26th, are just around the corner. I can’t wait to dive into the magic of Samhain with everyone!
Next week's theme is 'Remembering and Reclaiming Self,' these are all the places you can join me. There is no Wednesday morning class at Balance or Saturday morning class at The Pod.
A few spaces are left on our Samhain 'Let Go' mini-retreat on Saturday 26th.
Readings, Resources and Inspiration
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Sri Swami Satchidananda
The Secret Power of Yoga by Nischala Joy Devi
If Women Rose Rooted by Sharon Blackie
⁘ Autumnal Equinox ⁘ by Gina Puerro
The space
in between
the inhale and exhale
the light and darkness
between planes
of flesh
and spirit.
Gather the abundance
laid down
under the high summer sun
and turn your nectar
into honey wine.
Chop wood
carry water
and shift your gaze
towards the waning golden hour.
Listen as the feathered ones
sing their migration songs
and teach us how to leave
and watch as the four-legged ones
gather their bounty
and teach us how to stay.
The trees are dressed
in their finest
with leaves stained in shades
of fire and ochre
and soon they will show us
the exquisite beauty
of letting go.
Feel the crisp air
breathing on your neck
pulling you inward
and trade sun chasing
for root tending,
movement
for stillness.
Warm your belly with whiskey tales
and mark your fingers with pomegranate.
Put the moon in your eyes
while you scroll constellations across your thigh
and scent your hair
with pine smoke.
Attune your senses
to the sweet lullaby
the bittersweet taste
the rich and fertile scent
of cycles
of seasons
of surrender.
Have a wonderful week. Vicki xx
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