I’ve always taken pride in growing up as a South Louisiana girl. I use the distinction of “South” because if you aren’t in the 504, 985, or 337 area codes, are you even really from Louisiana? 😜

My parents placed a lot of value on educating us about our culture and understanding our roots. And in this part of the world, there is definitely no escaping the force that is Mardi Gras.

Growing up in a traditional Catholic household, Carnival season bridged the gap between the Epiphany and the beginning of Lent, with Mardi Gras being the last “hurrah” before fasting and reflection. Hence: lots of excess! I’ll be the first to admit that I bought a king cake as soon as I could on January 6th. And, perhaps ten more since then… lol.

But what if we could choose the middle path? What if we moved past the human struggle of indulgence versus discipline?

One of the yamas (restraints) in yoga is the practice of Brahmacharya, or non-excess. While this is an ancient philosophy—and sometimes interpreted literally as abstinence—a modern application is learning how to conserve your energy.

It’s about finding balance in life’s pleasures and understanding how overindulgence affects your mind and body. (You know, that Mardi Gras “boo-boo” in the head?)

As we wind down this season, I invite you to nourish your soul with me. Let’s get back to nature and back to ourselves.

No cut-off-top party buses, no 32 oz. daiquiris, and no plastic trinkets.

Join me on Saturday, February 21st at the Southdown trailhead. Come back to nature—both outside and within.

Register [HERE] for Seek Outdoors: Southdown Trail & Yoga

Check out this great article published recently in the Houma Times to learn more about the trail!

See you soon!

-Amy