Perrysburg Pulse Magazine Perrysburg Pulse November | Page 19

Your ahamkara is only concerned with: • How is this affecting me? • Are things happening the way I want? • Are people showing up the way that feels good to me? • Do people see me how I want to be seen? Meditation helps flip our perspective to a more neutral, universal, inclusive view. We catch ourselves when we start building a story around the events and interactions in our lives, step back, and see things from another’s perspective. Creating space and openness in the way we interpret events liberates us from the pressure of personally identifying with and over-emphasizing factors we cannot control. SCIENTIFICALLY SPEAKING There is extensive and impressive research that’s been done neurologically to demonstrate the benefits of meditation for our brains. Here are a few key benefits: • Our brainwaves slow into the restful alpha, beta or delta states • We shift from the sympathetic to the parasympathetic nervous system • Feel-good hormones (dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin) are released • Inflammation, muscle tension and blood pressure reduce in the body • New neuropathways increase patience, empathy and positive thinking Your life is your curriculum. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Elevating personal growth as a lifestyle, Ashley Turner, M.A., MFTI (#62103) is a yoga/meditation teacher, registered Marriage + Family Therapist Intern, writer, speaker and Initiated Priestess. Deep, witty and laser focused, she draws on the source texts of yoga while incorporating the best of neurobiology, Jungian Psychology, ayurveda, tantra, shamanism and priestess work – vigorously challenging students and clients from the inside out. She is known for her ability to translate complex themes into practical, real-life tools accessible to all. As the Artist-in-Residence at Montage Laguna Beach, Ashley launched Montage’s signature monthly yoga–mind–body workshops. Ashley is a sought after presenter at international events and conferences and contributor to top tier media publications including Self, Shape, Mantra, Origin, Women’s Health, Yoga Journal and Natural Health. She focuses on a dynamic vinyasa style of yoga infused with nuggets of wisdom from the roots of Yoga psychology and philosophy, deep self- inquiry, devotion and humor. Ashley consults Hollywood creatives, distinguished CEOs, couples, adolescents and individuals. With a diverse palate and ability to speak directly to her audience, Ashley has toured with rock stars, lectured in academic settings and led transformational events worldwide. She lives by the beach in Marina Del Rey, California. ashleyturner.org 19 19