– I recently talked with Selena Lael, a certified Life Coach, E-RYT Yoga and Yoga Nidra Instructor, and certified Massage Therapist and Health Educator. A graduate of National Holistic Institute in 2004, Selena has been thriving in a career inspiring others to become their better, more health selves. She has studied under Her Holiness Sai Maa Lakshmi Devi since 2001, studying to deepen her experience of authenticity, love, peace, and a steadfast commitment to being of service to others. Selena has been creating yoga and mindfulness programs for businesses, and she's led many healing retreats for the public.

I asked Selena why meditation is so important, and how you get started. She likened the practice of meditation to an athlete who has to practice daily. You just can't be the perfect athlete day one, but over time and with consistent practice, you can develop the skills that will later reap benefits and rewards. The same for meditation. You have to do this daily to develop the skill, and the benefits.

Selena shared how meditation is actually a science, and the brain reacts to this practice in very scientific ways. So, for some of us who might have felt it was 'woo-woo,' think again.

“When we meditate, the body switches from the ‘fight, flight or freeze mode of the sympathetic nervous system,’ and moves to the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows us to relax. At that point, we can feel real reactions in our bodies. The brain activity slows down, blood pressure lowers, the mind becomes more quiet and less distracted, and we are more easily able to release stress.”

Selena shares how we can reach higher aspects of our mind, and even reach deeper into our subconscious. Meditation works on changing the brain patters, and it's possible to change one's personality to develop greater empathy, even compassion, and intuition.

If you're looking to begin a meditation practice, check out apps like Insight Timer, where I first discovered Selena. You'll enjoy her classes there or perhaps even a retreat that will allow you to immerse yourself in yoga and meditation.

Selena Lael graduated from the National Holistic Institute in 2004, where she studied healing modalities and health education. She is a certified Life Coach, E-RYT Yoga and Yoga Nidra Instructor, and meditation and mindfulness facilitator. She has been supporting others on their healing path since 2004.

Selena has been a devoted student of Her Holiness Sai Maa Lakshmi Devi since 2001, where her studies continue to deepen her experience of authenticity, love, peace, and a commitment to being of service to others. Selena has years of experience offering yoga and mindfulness programs for corporate companies, and has assisted and led many healing retreats for men and women.

With her rich background, Selena incorporates meditation, breath-work, power of mind, mindfulness, emotional freedom, and other practices for peace of mind, body and spirit into her offerings. Overflowing with devotion from the heart of the Mother, Selena wishes to serve each soul's awakening to their own sovereignty, aliveness and freedom.

FARM-FRESH FOODS to HELP YOU RELAX:

HIBISCUS - This flower can be used in teas, even on salads or desserts. It promotes relaxation and also helps to maintain a normal body temperature, support heart health and encourage fluid balance. It also aids in weight loss and serves as a diuretic.