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A Short And Simple Yoga Warm Up Video On Hanalei Bay

Would you like to do yoga on the beach, in paradise, right now?  I invite you to come join me with this simple 3.5 minute basic yoga sequence to get that body movin’. The video is part of the work of Purple Inc., a new Hawaiian Lifestyles Magazine that is thriving with Aloha.

 

I am a grateful contributing editor for this magazine, they call me “the Wellness Wahine” and I look forward to offering more videos and articles as the months go by to bring the inspiration of yoga and fitness to all of you who have a heart for the islands. (more…)


A Morning Routine To Align Yourself With Health And Well Being

By bringing your breath, thoughts and physical well-being into your morning routine, you will lay a foundation of loving awareness for your entire day!

Try these simple steps:

1.  Awaken with a few conscious breaths and transition into your morning mindfully:  As soon as your eyes open and you are aware that you are no longer sleeping, begin your day with a few deep breaths before you even roll out of bed.  Enjoying the gift of being alive, feel your belly swell as you inhale, feel the sweet contraction in your core as you exhale.  (more…)


Keiki Yoga Classes, Spanish Lessons And So Much More On Kauai For Kids

Kauai Yoga And Fitness’s brand new keiki class designed and physically led by Samantha Fox Olson with Spanish teacher, Lourdes Zietz.
KEIKI MOVE AND GROOVE WITH A LANGUAGE IMMERSION.
Each class will be designed to embrace our children’s minds, bodies and hearts!

This class will infuse dance, creative movement/games and yoga in the yurt, with another group of kids  learning to speak Spanish through creative songs and stories!  (more…)


A Hard-Core Fitness Class With A Yoga Vibe

“God is so good!!  It is amazing how things manifest into our lives.  I had been asking the universe for a class that could be half yoga and half core strength.  So thank you so much for creating that class!  I think you should patten a video or something.  You know what you are doing would be so cutting edge in the fitness world.” -Sonja, Bootie Camp student

I have been inspired and encouraged by my students on various occasions to make videos of my classes so that they can enjoy them when they are not on island.  What would it look like if I had classes available right here on line for you to enjoy?

Here’s a little peek at my own practice (working on my Bootie Camp class sequencing for an upper body training day).  (more…)


Yoga Retreat On Kauai, January 2012

You will be nourished, delighted and empowered in this magical Paradise Play-Treat.

Explore, dream and discover on one of the most magical islands on the planet! Join Samantha Fox Olson (certified Anusara yoga instructor and local Kauai resident!) and Jana Kilgore (Anusara Inspired Teacher, Ayurvedic Chef & Gifted Healer) on the majestic island of Kauai for a week long yoga retreat that will inspire you, awaken your senses and connect you deeply with nature. (more…)


Awear: Organic Yoga Clothing That You Can Live In

I have to give a shout out to Awear Yoga because I have been loving their yoga clothing so much!  Comfort, style, colorful, artistic, and Made in the USA (by a very lovely yogini herself, my sister)!

My sister, a yogi who lives in Michigan, just recently started her own YOGA CLOTHING line.  Our mom has been designing gymnastics wear for over 20 years, so my sis has an amazing amount of background in sewing and it seems the natural progression that she starts a yoga clothing company since she is a creative yogini!

Please check our her online shop.  She hand makes it all in Michigan and is such a sweet soul to support.  Not only that, but if you call in your order to her and mention that you heard about here here, you will receive FREE SHIPPING on your order!  (psst, her stuff is already the most affordable yoga wear I know of!)

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An Eco Clothing Event

A consistent Bootie Camp student and dear friend will be having an Eco-Clothing Trunk Show in Princeville this Wednesday!  She has an amazing array of clothing (including dresses, pants, gauchos, bikinis, yoga clothing, skirts & leggings) and it will be a fun social event too!

Aug. 17th (this Wednesday) 6pm -10 pm
North shore of Kauai (Princeville)

Pupus and wine will be served .  (Feel free to bring something to share.)
Shop while enjoying the company of other ladies. (Men & children are welcome too.)
Eco goods and clothing made from hemp,organic cotton & soy. (more…)


Are You Being Challenged?

I just have to give a shout out to the women who rocked this Tuesday’s Bootie Camp class.  We had such a powerful, sweaty, and uplifting class today, inspired by the perseverance of the South Sudanese people.  (Their story is incredibly heart-opening and inspiring to me.)

Really what I wanted to share in this post are the 2 challenges that I put out there in our Bootie Camp class today: (more…)


A Grateful Way To Receive More

One of the most powerful and transformational practices that I know of personally is GRATITUDE.  It magically shifts my mind from what I don’t have, or what is “wrong”, to the abundance of blessings that I do have.  In this practice I am consistently being given more and more of all that is good.

One student commented to me after a workshop years ago (where we did a short gratitude journal exercise) that writing down all the things she was grateful for really gave her a new perspective.  She found this most helpful.  Give it a try. (more…)


A Donation Yoga And Fitness Class For Carmen

One of my daughter’s little 4 year old friends has recently been diagnosed with Leukemia.   Please read this and support in any way you can.  Carmen is an incredibly amazing child and you can learn more about her and her strength in the link below.  Send love and come practice for her on the 26th.

SUNDAY, JUNE 26TH 11:30-12:45 a Donation Based Yoga and Fitness class for Carmen White. Come to bring your financial and prayerful support for this amazing spirit, and do some all-levels appropriate yoga and some strength training and cardio fitness in the process. (more…)


A New Kauai Magazine Is Thriving With Aloha

I am super excited to introduce you to a brand new Hawaiian Lifestyles magazine, just launched here on Kauai: Purple Inc., Thriving With Aloha.

What lights me up about this magazine is that it is the creative vision of two absolutely amazing and talented women (also yogini’s here at Kauai Yoga And Fitness).  Keri Cooper and Amanda Baker are following a passionate pull from their hearts to offer Kauai an editorial that honors the beauty of Kauai, inspires locals to try new things right here on our island, and promotes a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.  In addition to all that life-affirming goodness, each edition will also include topics on beauty, fashion and blissful beach living. (more…)


A Meditation That Honors This Gift Of Life

The theme this week in my yoga classes has been “Each Day Is A Gift.”  This is a theme that holds such a great significance for us now, and always.  Although with what has been happening globally it is such an uplifting and refreshing reminder that the very miracle of being alive, right now, is an absolute gift to be treasured and appreciated.

At some point in the class I have been placing an intentional pause, with which we have been filling with a wonderful depositing of appreciation and recognition for all that our body does for us.  Without us even having to think about it our heart beats, our blood flows, our liver cleans our blood, our intestines digest food and absorbs nutrients so we can thrive, our lungs our kidneys and our lymph systems also work to keep us healthy as they are designed to remove toxins from our bodies in one way or another.  We have an amazing world of support within us, right now.  Our bodies are truly miraculous gifts and when we take the time to appreciate them, there is a palpable feeling inside that reminds us to that honoring this gift that we have been given is good! (more…)


Yoga Detox Workshop With Samantha Fox Olson

SPRING CLEANSING TIME! 
YOGA DETOX WORKSHOP WITH SAMANTHA FOX

This is the perfect time to detox our bodies and we can use our yoga practice to facilitate cleansing on many levels.

During this yoga workshop, certified Anusara yoga instructor, Samantha Fox Olson will guide students through a cleansing and flowing practice.  Additionally, I will open the workshop with very helpful instruction regarding alignment principles that will be applied during this practice to facilitate an effective  yoga detox.   The workshop will close with a meaningful meditation that applies to cleansing our minds, bodies and hearts.

Each student will be able to take what they learn in this workshop and bring it into, and enhance, every other yoga practice, no matter what form of yoga you practice! (more…)


Kauai Waterfalls I Love You!

It blows me away that I have lived on this magical island for over 6 years now and I am still finding new and exciting hikes, waterfalls and beaches that rock my world!  There are just so many amazing spots on this island, and this is one of my newest favorites!

There are many places to sit near the falls, or practically right in them, as you can see me playing that way here, and it is a cleansing treat to each and every sense.  The sounds of water rushing and birds singing, the cool water falling and bubbling, the pulse of the serene nature all around, it all flows into a magical experience every time without fail!

I fell so blessed to live her, to call this magical island my home.

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Yoga Journal Talent Search And Photo Contest

YogaJournalPhotoContestYes, I have a dream.  I have lots of them and hope you do too.  But having dreams is just the beginning really.  If we wish to live our lives to our fullest, then we must align with our Highest, and go for it!

So, today I am asking for your support in helping me win the Yoga Journal Talent Search Photo Contest with Athleta.  It is super easy to cast your vote, and you can vote everyday for the next 16 days.

The winner will be flown to San Fransisco for a photo shoot with Yoga Journal!  How cool is that?!  I dream of the day I get to do something as fun as doing a photo shoot for Yoga Journal.  What is one of your dreams? (more…)


Focal Points And Balanced Action Yoga Workshop On Kauai

Vira2WaterfallThis Sunday, March 27th I am teaching a workshop that I know will enhance  your practice.

FOCAL POINTS AND BALANCED ACTION:  How to get the most awareness and mind-body connection, in every single pose!

This workshop will be from 10:00-11:45 and is appropriate for all levels. Cost of the workshop is only $22!!!!  Child care is available for donation this Sunday too!  (more…)


Donation Yoga Class To Raise Money For The People Of Japan

Sam-101I want to help the people of Japan.   And we can do it together!  Please join us for a guided yoga practice SUNDAY, MARCH 20th at 10 a.m. in Kilauea Farms.

This will be an all-levels class, and all donations will go to King Ransom Foundation, to help bring peace to the suffering in Japan. (more…)


Kauai Yoga And Fitness Supports Peace For The Whole Wide World

WeWantPeaceI wish to take you on a journey.  This is story that has impacted me greatly and has moved me deeply.  It is about a dream and a big prayer.  For Peace.  Peace For The Whole Wide World.  Will you join me?

Part 1:  How it all began. (more…)


What Does Boot Camp And Yoga Have In Common?

ChatarangaI recently asked a couple of my Bootie Fusion students to put into words what they thought of this particular format because it is quite the paradox of a blend.  This Bootie Fusion class, not only boasts a wonderful title, but also infuses together two seemingly opposite forms of expression:  Yoga flow/vinyasa, and Boot Camp!  This class is currently offered Wednesdays on the north shore of Kauai, from 5:15-6:30 pm.  We begin with a heart pumping Boot Camp class where we use any our own body weight, and finish with a fluid yoga flow.  Here is what a few of the ladies in this class had to say about this uniquely blended class…

“Boot Camp & Yoga?  Who would ever imagine that mixing a spiritually centered physical practice with a tough love sweat it out attitude would make for an amazing hour of self discovery, self confidence, strength and gratitude.  Samantha’s boot camp yoga will rock your world, don’t miss out!!!”~Heather (more…)


Opening Our Hearts, Backbending With Strength and Freedom

PartnerNatarajasanaYes, you CAN find bliss in backbends!

Sunday, Feb. 13th:  9 a.m. – 12:00 in Kilauea Farms

In this 3 hour workshop we will explore the Anusara ™ yoga Universal Principles of Alignment to find a new found strength and a joyful freedom in backbending asanas.  Samantha Fox (Certified Anusara yoga instructor) will playfully guide all levels of students to safely bend backwards! (more…)


Int. – Advanced Backbend Yoga Workshop On Kauai

mermaid pose at waterfallOn Sunday, Feb. 13th I’ll be teaching an INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCE LEVEL BACK BENDING WORKSHOP!!!

Come find freedom in expressing the authentic fullness of your heart through a wide variety of back bending asanas.  This class will be structured around the Anusara yoga Universal Principles of Alignment to bring you a deeper understanding of your shoulders, upper back and neck and also on how to create more space in the low back too.

If you have a desire to open your heart with freedom and clarity, here is your workshop! (more…)


A Testimony From The Heart For Kauai Yoga And Fitness

IMG_0296I am always so touched when heart felt testimonies come my way.  I aspire to fill each class, and each private session, with a physical practice that meets my student’s needs, AND with a heartfelt intention that invites them to connect to their own hearts and their own goodness.  This is the recipe for personal transformation that expands into making more beauty in this world!

The other week we started another session of Gentle/Prenatal yoga.  The group of students included:  a woman with a plate in her cervical spine, a woman in a full length leg cast, a woman with a couple of ruptured discs in her low back and a pregnant mama!  Yes, what a group!  I guess we could call this class Gentle/Prenatal/Yoga Therapy.

They each brought their courage to try something new, along with a deep desire to understand themselves and their bodies even more.  To experience more freedom.  Here is what one of those students had to say after our first class (via an email to me)… (more…)


What Does Yoga On Kauai And Wedding Photography On Kauai Have In Common?

Beach Yoga KauaiI feel incredibly blessed to have such amazing students in each of my classes.  Some have been so consistent in their own practice, coming to class 3 times a week.  What is so beautiful about this is to be able to witness the growth, transformation, strength, body awareness and a deep desire for well-being flourishing as each week passes.   These fruits are developing over just a few months with their consistent and playful dedication.

One of these students I am referring to recently wrote a blog on her wedding photography on Kauai website about her inspiration from Anusara yoga and her desire to carry that with her into and through 2011.  Her blog is from the heart and I know you will enjoy it.  Make sure you click the link at the end to see her amazing photography too!    Thanks for the love Keri Cooper.  You are one talented, fun and beautiful woman! (Pictured here with her mama on the beach during our 108 sun salutations/offerings during Global Mala this past year.  So cool!) (more…)


My January Yoga Workshop On Kauai

supported eka pada prepI am happy to announce a New Year Workshop with Jane Winter and Samantha Fox.  ALIGNING WITH OUR RESOLUTE INTENTION TO LIVE FROM THE HEART.  Sunday, Jan. 23rd

If you have not attended a workshop with us before, read what others have said…

“I have attended 2 workshops with these fine women, Sam & Jane.  I have been privileged to work with them as they explore the body, mind and heart in an environment that is both safe and comfortable.  Many new doors will open for you after attending one of their sessions, so if you are not ready for 2011 and all the endless possibilities that it holds then do not attend.  But if you wish for your life to transform into a chain of endless possibilities then sign up as quickly as possible!”  -Margo (more…)