Apr 15, 2023 | Sedona Yoga
Nature Beyond Thread‘s activewear are original designs curated by founder Noelle Kristine’s captivating photographs of stunning natural landscapes, encountered during her global travels. The images evoke a sense of tranquility, serenity, and harmony. Scientifically, looking at pictures of nature speeds up mental restoration and improves cognitive functioning — as well as restoring focus, reducing depression, and improving our overall mood. This means that stepping into NBT’s activewear will not only help you remember to ground throughout the day; gazing at the intricate patterns of nature on your body will also help put you in a better mood and help restore focus. Their activewear also serves as a much needed, gentle reminder that you ARE nature — fashioned from the very same particles as the powerful ocean, grains of sand, ridged mountains, starry skies, and rippling plains.
Their distinctive clothing line transforms these mesmerizing landscapes into wearable masterpieces that allow individuals to showcase their love for nature while embodying a sense of adventure and exploration. Through NBT’s extraordinary creations, you’ll discover the perfect fusion of art, fashion and sustainability brought to life in their stunning active wear collections. Immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of nature, masterfully woven into every garment and join their mission to create a world where style, nature and ethical practices unite to leave a lasting impact.
We caught up with Noelle to learn more about how this incredible brand came to be. Read on for more!
So cool that you drew inspiration from your travels to create NBT clothing. Is there a particular space or story that stands out to you?
I had been traveling alone with my camera for years, capturing the intricacies of remote regions and environments that were only visited by others, occasionally. The photos from these solo adventures are filled with excitement, enjoyment, and fond memories of all that I have experienced and the people that I have met along the way. Nonetheless, solo travel is, inevitably, an isolating experience. My landscapes invariably capture that isolation. Much like my own approach to life, landscapes that we see in places like National Parks are content with themselves, fearlessly independent, and unafraid of changing on their own time, at their own pace. They change slightly, slowly and cautiously, yet never make an excuse for their own growth and transformations. I am hoping that our designs will inspire exploration for others and for them to create their own personal connections to nature, people and art.
What’s a way nature / nature-inspired beauty has fostered a sense of connection or calm in your own life?
When I was younger at my family’s cabin in Lake Tahoe, my dad introduced me to skiing at Heavenly Mountain and that forever changed my view of the natural world. Even though I was terrified at the time, I was so mesmerized by the superb beauty of the jagged granite snow-capped mountains that surrounded me. I was in absolute awe of the epic setting and from that moment on I began to have a love for the outdoors and the feeling it gives me. I am at peace when sporting yoga pants and a backpack on an outdoor adventure. Beyond capturing its natural splendor, outside — among the dirt, trees, rocks, sand, water, grass, and flowers.
What inspired you to create “wearable nature?” Was there an “aha / eureka moment” for you?
After learning about the positive effects that nature and nature photography have on the brain, it sparked a sense of hope + inspiration when looking at my landscape photographs in the darkest depths of 2020. I decided to take this inspiration in my work to pursue it further. It’s important to recognize the power that nature has in our lives, and to find ways to incorporate it into our daily routines. Sustainable fashion became a passion of mine after researching the impact that fast fashion is having on our planet. I loved the idea that this seamlessly blends some of my other passions such as landscape photography and the great outdoors. I also love that it has relived my adventures while inspiring others.
What do you want people to feel when they wear NBT clothing?
Our imaginative approach offers customers an opportunity to stand out from the crowd and showcase their passion for art and nature. Wearing NBT is not just about style; it’s also about sharing a story and connecting with a global community of like-minded individuals who value the planet and its diverse beauty. Not only do we want them to feel calm and grounded throughout the day, but we also want women to feel empowered – Nature is Art, so we want them to become the art and unleash the artist within them.
Do you have a personal favorite piece or collection?
Of course, all are a personal favorite but when deciding which designs to choose for our launch, my Death Valley photographic collection stands out. The stark beauty of the landscape provides compositions, textures, patterns, and shapes that are both subtle and striking. In this collection, you can see how the landscape changes depending on the time of day and how the shifting light can transform the scene from ordinary to extraordinary with colors and shadows that dance across the landscape and the details within. For example, our designs named Mesquite and Sand Dunes sets are taken at the same location but at different times of the day. Mesquite was taken at sunset while Sand Dunes was taken at sunrise.
How often do you come out with new patterns/series?
We launched at the beginning of 2022 so it’s been a year pushing the first 11 designs to bring brand awareness and sharing our story. Nature Beyond Threads will be coming out with new patterns and collections this year.
Apr 10, 2023 | Sedona Yoga
by Dusty Swehla: Vista Celestial Retreats, Guest, and Wellness Advisor
Be entered to win a vacation to Vista Celestial by joining us for our 10-year anniversary celebration April 27–30! Passes are available here.
The name Costa Rica means “Rich Coast” because of the many rich metals throughout the country. Today, Costa Rica is known for its beaches, volcanos, beautiful waterfalls, oceanlife and biodiversity. The Osa Peninsula, on Costa Rica’s southern pacific coast, has been called by National Geographic one of the most biodiverse places on earth.
Statistics show that approximately 3.1 million people visited Costa Rica last year. You may be thinking, “Why do so many people want to visit?” Do people visit the beaches, waterfalls and ocean life? Of course! But they also come to find more. We believe that visitors come back year after year for the natural beauty of Costa Rica but also for the magical energy present the moment a visitor sets foot in the country. Many are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They are looking for a place to connect to their inner selves and receive inspiration from the natural world. That pause and connection so many seek can be found walking in the lush rainforest mountainside, gazing at majestic ocean views, or walking along the vast and vacant beaches; all of which make up the natural setting that cradles our boutique resort called Vista Celestial.
The intimate setting of our luxury boutique resort is an ideal place to work “IN” and experience a transformational and relaxing stay in Costa Rica.
With just five, beautiful and newly renovated 1000 sq/ft villas set on 13 acres of mountainside rainforest with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Vista Celestial is the ultimate sanctuary. Each villa features a private patio and private plunge pool. Your private plunge pool is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy the view of the Whales Tail shoreline feature by day; or to heat to a hot tub and stargaze at night.
With its incredible geography and climate, it is no surprise that Costa Rica is home to a wide array of freshly grown produce, fish, and more. You will find fresh, locally grown food all over Costa Rica and Vista Celestial is no exception. Our chefs take inspiration from our orchard and gardens and prepare nightly specials that incorporate the freshest available ingredients to create world class cuisine. Their 6-course, Taste of Costa Rica, chef’s tasting menu is out of this world!!
Beyond the natural setting and luxurious villas, the Vista Celestial team is what (or who) really delivers the magic of Costa Rica. Their heart and soul is put into meeting your every need, accommodating your requests and anticipating and meeting needs before they are even verbalized. They will become your friends and you will leave with a new family.
A few of the special touches created by our amazing team include cool eucalyptus scented towels and refreshing juice upon arrival, yoga props artfully displayed for each yoga session, local treats placed in your villa to welcome you in, and local coffee (grown by our general manager on his farm!) available complimentary in your villa. The list of magical touches go on and on. Vista Celestial sets the stage and takes care of every need so you can enjoy all the magical and spiritual experiences that arise throughout your stay. We welcome families, couples, yoga retreats and those seeking the magic of Costa Rica and Pura Vida.
A Costa Rican phrase that embodies the magic you will find here is “Pura Vida”. This term means simple life or pure life. It is used in everyday life to communicate “hello, goodbye, thank you, you’re welcome, and generally communicate a sense that ‘life is good’”. The phrase is a reminder of how little we actually need to be happy. We have the ocean, mountains, sunshine, hikes, coffee farms, waterfalls, waves and a culture that needs very little in order to find happiness.
I started my journey with Vista Celestial as a guest, I had a spiritual/transformational experience and I wanted more. Today, I live the Pura Vida lifestyle, literally. I find joy and happiness in the sounds of the ocean waves and the jungle. I find peace with the pure and simple pleasures of watching the wildlife, feeling the sunshine on my face, listening to the howler monkeys and knowing that all I need is within. Life is good here in Costa Rica, I hope you follow the path that leads you to Vista Celestial. Pura Vida!
We will be doing a vacation giveaway to Vista Celestial ONLY for SYF2023 attendees on-site during our 10-year anniversary celebration! To be entered to win, join us April 27–30. Passes are available here.
Apr 5, 2023 | Sedona Yoga
A new vision into the path of wellness and personal growth! Win a 3-night vacation in an oceanfront king suite. Learn more and enter to win here.
Located at the tail end of the most breathtaking beach in the Riviera Maya, surrounded by 988 acres of lush jungle and a kilometer of pristine beach, lies a natural enclave where the effervescent complexity of contemporary Mexico meets with ancient roots and sacred rituals.
A true haven for the senses ready to be discovered, Palmaïa – The House of AïA stands apart from other resorts, offering unlimited wellness activities paired with a unique culinary experience. Everything is included in the rate, meaning guests can enjoy a fully immersive experience without worrying about additional costs or expenses, focusing on their wellness journey without distractions.
Integrating mystical elements of the region, the property offers a program dedicated to your personal growth: The Architects of Life (AOL), designed to awaken the exploration of the inner self through daily holistic practices and ceremonies inspired by ancient Mayan and other pre-Hispanic and Far East cultures. From Cacao Ceremonies and Temazcal to Sound Healing sessions, Yoga, Pranayama, and much more, Palmaïa honors the region’s cultural heritage and provides guests with a unique opportunity to connect with their spirituality
and discover a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
Palmaïa’s location is also a key factor in the resort’s unique appeal, where the concept of AïA is presented as humanity’s connection with Nature. The lush jungle, turquoise beach and abundant wildlife make for a calming atmosphere, perfect for mindfulness and spiritual practices. AïA’s energy provides guests with a serene and peaceful setting to reflect and unwind, where deep connection to oneself, others, and your surroundings can flourish. Nestled between the mangroves and clear water cenotes is the Spa, Atlantis, a hidden gem where guests are pampered with true nature-immersive experiences in the hands of master therapists.
Although an ideal place to reset and recharge while taking a break from today’s fast-paced world, Palmaïa’s holistic approach to wellness is not just spiritual. The resort provides top-tier accommodations in beautifully designed suites featuring vegan and sustainable amenities while carefully curating its plant-based gastronomy. Crafted by experienced chefs throughout their exquisite restaurants, specialty menus range from mouth-watering Asian fusion to street and high-end Mexican, Mediterranean, and International cuisine, delivering an outstanding dining experience.
Expanding further into the realm of the senses, the Rituals of Sound sessions offer a nightscape journey of curated beats and live electronic music. A chance to mingle with fellow voyagers, dance barefoot around the flickering flames of a beach bonfire, and indulge in some of the best mixologies.
Be part of Palmaïa’s Progressive Wellness journey and experience soul nourishment through conscious cuisine, nature-immersed treatments, and holistic practices.
For a limited time only, sign up for our newsletter list and be entered to win a 3-night oceanfront king-suite vacation at Palmaïa – The House of AïA! Enter to win here.
Mar 22, 2023 | Sedona Yoga
The Ancient Roots of Surya Namaskar
by SYF2023 presenter Grant Ifflander
The “plain old” Sun Salutation. Warm-up, or final stop?
According to the true Tantrik origins of this practice (yes, I said Tantrik), the surya namaskara sequence was not at all a warm-up. In fact, according to the Pashupata lineage of yogis, this sequence that is today known as the “sun salutation” was considered a ritual dance of prayer and emotion that led to the emancipation of one’s soul.
This was distinctly different than other yoga practices and the traditions of the times! Instead of needing to do penance for thousands of lifetimes to reach enlightenment, these yogis of the (Tantrik) Pashupata lineage had declared the possibility of enlightenment and moksha (liberation) happening right here in this lifetime. Of course, the practitioner’s sincere involvement was required, but still. Definitely far more than warm-up!
Lest we not forget that yoga emerged out of ancient India where the culture at the time was deeply influenced by the stories of sages and masters reaching the final goal of human life. Yoga as exercise came much later in the scheme of things.
To truly understand the ancient origins of what has become a staple in nearly every vinyasa yoga class (surya namaskara), we must look at the roots from which it comes and turn it back into what it was designed for: a reverential dance and movement-as-prayer dedicated to the Source of All Life.
A noble cause indeed! Join me at Sedona Yoga Festival from April 27–30 (passes available here!) to explore this topic in-person, or find out more about my yoga school, KeepersOfTheEarth.co.
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At Keepers of the Earth, we want to change how we view and align with creative power. We want to restore the balance in all that we do and awaken people to the sacredness of life. Therefore, we are reviving and renewing our innate and intuitive connection to mysticism and magic through Yoga and yogic spiritual science.
We believe that once an individual understands the actual mechanics of spirituality and transformation, they begin to naturally gravitate towards actions, behaviors and lifestyles that are in alignment with life. Their creative power is no longer used to self-satisfy but instead is used to serve and help the Whole. The result? Human beings who are bringing magic everywhere they go and in everything they do, living out their fullest potential, and taking care of the ground beneath their feet where they step.
We are becoming “Keepers of the Earth”: leaders embodied in our craft, sharing the teachings of our ancestors with authenticity, reverence and respect, and devoted to bringing more beauty & magic to our Earth.
Feb 18, 2023 | Sedona Yoga
Stick Your Marketing with Sticker Communications
by Lisette Cheresson, SYF Communications Director
As our world moves forward at what feels like the speed of light — but certainly the speed of texting — it can feel overwhelming to keep up with all the digital communiques. Email, social messages, messaging apps, texts… there’s no shortage of research that shows that the overstimulation of the way we share news and updates can be not only exasperating, but even harmful for our brain. The Mayo Clinic refers to this as “cognitive overload,” but for those of us who take seriously the mindfulness practices of stillness and presence, the constant dings and need for response is an inherent challenge. What ever happened to good old-fashioned marketing efforts?
The idea that “marketing,” as a concept, can be old-fashioned is perhaps a bit of a stretch — indeed, how many decades must something be in existence before we consider it to be endemic to a bygone era? What could possibly still be a meaningful way to get your brand or service out into the world that doesn’t rely on the digital space? Enter: sticker marketing.
As a child of the 90s, I remember plastering my Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers with free stickers of all kinds. Some I couldn’t even bring myself to use — I still have stacks of bespoke stickers from my favorite stores and coffeeshops from the town in which I grew up. There’s something magical about sticker communication. It’s graffiti, but semi-temporary. It’s art, but accessible. It’s marketing, but it’s fun. Who doesn’t have a fond memory of some object in which stickers played a prominent role?
For his birthday, a friend of mine got stickers made up by Sticker Mule for her partner’s birthday, in which she plastered their dog’s face all over their city. Every time I walk by one now — two years later — I smile. A sticker out in the wild with which you have a personal association is a special secret between yourself and everyone else’s interpretation of your art.
As a small business owner, I call back to those childhood propensities to plaster my notebooks, and rather than relying solely on the digital space for marketing, prefer to plaster my messages in the real world. Stickering is a great way to advertise yoga class, or an upcoming workshop, or a website. Art can be flashy or simple — it’s like a cooler business card that carries its own out in the world. SYF is no different. We love sharing our annual sticker with our attendees — and get absolutely tickled when we see them on water bottles or yoga mat bags or TT binders years later. And when we create them, we always go with our favorite fine sticker maker, Sticker Mule.
If you’re a yoga or mindfulness professional, rather than throwing spaghetti at the digital wall, try sharing your message with something that sticks. Literally.
Want your SYF2023 sticker? Don’t miss your chance to join us for our 10-year anniversary celebration April 27–30! Passes available here.
Mar 14, 2022 | Sedona Yoga, Sedona Yoga Festival Teacher Feature, Yoga Interviews
Desiree Rumbaugh — Moving Through the Ages with Yoga
When we tend to think of yoga that’s accessible for all ages and for aging bodies, we trend toward restorative and gentle yoga, as if our aging bodies across the board lose the will for a physical challenge. It doesn’t have to be that way, according to international teacher, author, and PBS contributor Desiree Rumbaugh. “When I was younger, I’d always hear older people saying, ‘I used to do this or that,’” she says. As a very athletic and disciplined practitioner, this wasn’t how Desiree envisioned her own practice changing through the years. She figured that there had to be a way to continue to age well, without giving up the difficult physical practice.
As she herself crossed the threshold of 50 and beyond, that’s what her teaching began to showcase. “How do we keep the party going? How do we keep the fun going? How do we keep our wrists and our back and our knees and our neck able to withstand these poses without injury? So that’s what my teaching is like,” she says, “answering those questions and giving people a lot of ideas.”
Creating a Community
Desiree isn’t alone in this pursuit. She has what she calls a pit crew of physical therapists, weight trainers, and different people to advise her and keep her — and her students — safe as she explores what it means to embrace physicality for older bodies. As the Western yoga world continues to move toward accessibility, Desiree says that she inhabits an important space. “I think that’s kind of interesting to go learn from the lady who’s 63,” she says, “the lady who has been doing this for 35 years, and does everything like handstands and backbends.”
It’s not only an inspiration because of her age, but because of what that kind of flexibility — both physical and of the boundaries we consider in our own minds about the physical — represents. “It’s not because I’m lucky,” says Desiree. “I’ve had to work to change habits and figure out why these pains were there. I’ve had a lot of ups and downs just like everybody,” she says. “How have I gone into it instead of around it or avoiding it?”
This doesn’t mean just haphazardly experimenting with advanced poses. In her thirties, Desiree recalls just being able to go the park, for example, and kicking up into a handstand. This isn’t a possibility at 63, when the stakes are much higher if she falls. This “makes me more aware and conscious,” she says, “so there’s the mind aspect. I think as we age, we need to have stimulation of new thoughts and new ideas and new experiences.” That’s what Desiree’s teaching is really all about.
What Students Can Expect in Her Class
Desiree recognizes that her approach may not be for everybody — but she’s not trying to be. She wants her students to explore their own boundaries, and learn something about themselves that they may not have thought was possible. Her classes inspire students to understand that hard work and dedication results in progress; that you have the power to change your body and your mindset for the better. She also wants to “stress the fun of playing in a yoga class with your friends, even though it can be solitary practice. That’s a big one for me,” she says, “the joy of connecting with others in a playful way where we encourage each other and the support of the community.”
That’s what being at SYF is all about for Desiree — that connection of being with others of likemind, “supported by the breathing and the chanting and the working together mindfully in the present moment.” It’s why we’re so excited to be back together after two years apart, and why we hope you’ll join us in June.
Tickets are on sale now! Come experience the transformation of SYF with us. We can’t wait to see you soon.
