The winter solstice wraps us in its reflective embrace. As we recover from the “holidaze” (whatever that means for you), I find myself deeply rooted in gratitude. I am grateful for the knowledge and wisdom gained through my yogic practice. I appreciate the continual journey toward my highest self. I also treasure the moments of release that remind me of the power of stillness and presence.
This week, I decided to try something different before heading into a Restorative practice, infused with hints of Yin. I intentionally consumed a 5 mg Wyld gummy from Starbuds, which helped me ease into the zone. As I settled into broken toe pose, a wave of emotions washed over me. I cried tears—not of sorrow, but of profound gratitude. Gratitude for this transformative practice, for the unyielding support of my family, and especially for my husband.
In that stillness, it felt as though an epiphany unfolded. My mind drifted back to a pivotal moment years ago. I was studying Yin in Canada at the time. I was reminded of the steadfast encouragement my husband offered during that journey. That same gratitude filled me. I recognized how his support has been a constant thread through my evolution. It was present both then and now.
Returning to my mat as a student felt like stepping into an infinite well of possibility. Embracing each opportunity to learn and evolve opened a portal to both growth and release. This realization awakened a profound joy within me. I felt a deep-seated reverence for the beauty of starting anew. It doesn’t matter how far along the journey I may seem.
There is something sacred about revisiting the basics, stripping away the layers of expectation, ego, and routine. In those moments of stillness, I am reminded that the practice is not about perfection but presence. To show up raw—vulnerable and unfiltered—is to honor the essence of this journey. It’s a chance to let go of what no longer serves me. I can loosen the grip of past weights. I open myself fully to the here and now.
In this space, the mat becomes more than a surface. It turns into a mirror. It reflects the unspoken truths of my heart. Letting go is not an act of weakness. It is an act of courage. It is a surrender to the unknown. We trust that the shedding of old layers will reveal something even more authentic and whole. With every breath, every movement, and every moment of stillness, I am reminded that growth is not linear. It is cyclical. Showing up as I am—raw, real, and ready—is the most powerful offering I can give to myself.
Shaking Things Up with ClassPass
One of the things that keeps my wellness journey dynamic and exciting is ClassPass. Whether I’m seeking the grounding energy of a yoga class, I am looking for the invigorating burn of Pilates. I enjoy the endorphin rush of a spin session. ClassPass gives me access to an incredible variety of studios and experiences. It’s not just about workouts—it’s about discovering what nourishes your mind, body, and spirit.
What makes ClassPass even better? Their referral program. When you use my referral link, you’ll receive credits to explore everything ClassPass offers. You can enjoy classes or spa treatments like massages or facials. These credits let you test-drive multiple studios. They allow you to treat yourself to a wellness experience. You have the freedom to curate a routine that’s perfectly tailored to you.
If you’ve been thinking about starting something new, this is your sign. If you want to rediscover your love for movement, or you might simply be adding variety to your routine. ClassPass removes the barriers, like long-term commitments or choosing just one studio. It opens the door to endless possibilities.
Use my referral link to get started and claim your gifted credits today: Try ClassPass Here!. You’ll love the flexibility and variety that ClassPass brings to your wellness routine. You might be diving into a yoga flow. Or perhaps, you’re sweating it out in a high-energy spin class. It offers something for everyone. You can also unwind with a restorative massage.
Make 2025 the year you say yes to new experiences, nourish your body, and move with joy. Let’s thrive together!
Honoring Self-Love: A 2025 Intention
As we step into the new year, I find myself drawn to a singular, powerful focus: self-love. For me, this intention goes beyond surface-level indulgences. I firmly believe that bubble baths, affirmations, and favorite rituals have their place in nurturing our spirits. At its core, self-love is a deeper, more intentional practice. It means consistently showing up for ourselves. We must honor what nourishes us—body, mind, and soul—even amidst life’s chaos.
Self-love is not a destination or something to be ticked off a checklist; it’s a living, evolving relationship with ourselves. It’s acknowledging our needs, setting boundaries that protect our energy, and leaning into practices that ground us in our worth. It’s about doing the work. This work means resting when we’re exhausted. It involves pursuing passions that light us up. It also involves learning to say “no” to what drains us. This allows us to say “yes” to what rejuvenates us.
For me, self-love often looks like creating space for activities that genuinely bring me joy, even when life feels overwhelming. One such activity is baking—a practice I hold dear. There’s a quiet magic in the process of measuring, mixing, and transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Baking is more than just making a pie or cookies. It’s a meditative act. It serves as a reminder to slow down and find presence in the process. With each step, I feel a sense of creativity and accomplishment. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of savoring the fruits of that labor.
But self-love isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. It might look like dancing around your living room to your favorite playlist. It could mean diving into a good book. Maybe it’s reconnecting with nature. Perhaps it involves indulging in a hobby you’ve neglected for too long. It’s about tuning into what makes your soul sing and allowing yourself the time and space to embrace it fully.
As we move into 2025, let this be the year we redefine what self-love means for each of us. Let it be the year we unapologetically prioritize our joy. Let us honor our needs. Trust that when we love ourselves more deeply, we become able to give more freely. We give to the people and experiences that matter most.
My Simple Apple Pie Recipe
If baking brings you joy too, here’s a basic apple pie recipe that’s easy to follow and oh-so-satisfying:
Ingredients:
6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great!)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
2 pre-made pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious!)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Toss them in a large bowl with the sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
3. Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Add the apple mixture, spreading it evenly.
4. Dot the apples with small pieces of butter, then cover with the second pie crust. Seal and crimp the edges, and cut a few slits in the top for ventilation.
5. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Cool slightly before serving.
This pie is perfect for sharing with loved ones—or savoring on your own while practicing self-love!
Simple Practices for Self-Love
Self-love doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are a few small habits that can make a big impact:
- Do What Brings You Joy: Bake, paint, dance, sing—whatever makes your heart light up.
2. Start a Gratitude Practice: Write down three things you’re grateful for every morning or night.
3. Move Your Body: Find a form of movement you love, whether it’s yoga, walking, or dancing in your kitchen.
4. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that drain you and yes to what nourishes you.
5. Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is worth acknowledging.
Upcoming Events: Let’s Connect!
Saturday, December 28th: Close out 2024 with a Grief Relief + Laughter Circle sesh. Release what no longer serves you and find healing through laughter. **NOW RESCHEDULED for Saturday, January 11th** 📍Pilsen – Great Lake Healing Center
Saturday, January 18th: Join the Yoga Pop-Up in the South Loop. Enjoy it with Yoga Stoned USA and Duneyrr. The event will feature bites from Heffer BBQ. Message the code word “CHILLAX2025” on Instagram or email me at Jenny@YogaStonedUSA.com for ticket access.
Moving Forward with Intention
The winter solstice, with its quiet invitation to reflect and renew, reminds us of the beauty of turning inward. It’s a time to pause, honor where we’ve been, and set intentions for the path ahead. As we step into 2025, let us do so with open hearts. Let us make a heartfelt commitment to loving ourselves fully. We deserve love in all the ways we so deeply deserve.
Moving forward with intention means approaching each day with purpose and clarity. It’s about aligning our actions with our values. It involves making choices that honor our well-being. We also need to create space for what truly matters. This could take the form of establishing an intentional practice. It could be yoga, journaling, or meditation. These practices anchor us in the present moment. They help us cultivate inner peace.
It also means embracing the simple joys of life. These small but meaningful moments have the power to nourish our souls. They remind us of the abundance around us. You can find joy in dancing to your favorite song. Finding joy in a creative pursuit is also possible. Or discover joy in savoring the warmth of a homemade pie. We can find joy in these experiences.
This year, let us lean into growth. This is not about chasing perfection. Growth comes when we allow ourselves to learn. We evolve and let go of what no longer serves us. Let us cultivate gratitude, appreciating not only the triumphs but also the challenges that shape us into who we are. And let us extend ourselves grace. We should know that self-love is not about getting everything right. It is about showing up authentically and tenderly for ourselves.
May 2025 be a year where we trust the unfolding of our journey. Embrace every step with an open heart. Honor our capacity to grow, heal, and thrive. Together, let’s walk forward with intention and gratitude. Have the courage to create lives that reflect the love and light within us all.
If you’ve found value in what I’ve shared here, please like the post. You can also comment and share it with others who may benefit from these reflections. Reminder to subscribe for more insights. Feel free to contribute in any way that resonates with you. You can contribute through a comment, a message, or by sharing your own journey. Your support helps me continue to provide meaningful content and build a community rooted in wellness.
With Intention, Alignment, and Gratitude,
Jennifer Quezada-Delgado
Creator | Educator | Wellness Coach
Yoga Stoned USA
www.yogastonedusa.com
Yoga Stoned USA 