I want to take a moment to collectively send a big, warm, loving embrace to our brothers and sisters in California who’ve been affected by the destructive cycle of wildfires that broke out around the state last week.

It’s been another very difficult and heartbreaking week for many – and the effects are being felt far and wide with the air quality being in the very unhealthy + hazardous zone here in the Bay Area, even though the Camp Fire is 3.5 hours away… (I’ve been in my home with all doors and windows closed and locked most of the time this past week.)

Again what anchors me during these vulnerable and dark times are always my self-care practices, meditation and supportive community – and while it’s not the ideal weekend for this, I’m now in San Francisco for my final weekend of yoga teacher training, and SO grateful to have the opportunity to sit in community with my yoga circle sisters. <3

My heart goes out in such a deep way for all of the affected areas, and to all beings around the world as we navigate our grief, losses and feelings around the increasing numbers of destructive events taking place on our sweet planet at this time.

If you’d like to get involved in the relief efforts, I highly recommend offering a monetary donation as sending money is almost always the most efficient way to help in a disaster, according to the Center for International Disaster Information, part of the United States Agency for International Development… Do your research for which charities to donate to, and here are a couple of quick resources.

Nonprofits that are seeking donations:

American Red Cross: This nonprofit has opened shelters across the state to help evacuees. They also have an online tool that people can use to register themselves as safe so loved ones can find them.

California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Relief Fund: For 15 years, the foundation has offered aid to those affected by wildfires. Grants have gone to rebuilding homes, providing financial and mental health assistance and helping those affected to get medical treatment.

And here are my current fav holistic + herbal strategies for smoke detox:

* Herbal face steams – eucalyptus, pine, oregano, and rosemary for respiratory support
* 3 T Elderberry syrup/day to boost immunity
* Dandelion tincture 2x/day for liver detox
* Marshmallow root tea infusion throughout the day for hydration
* Tulsi Tea throughout the day for adrenal support
* Lavender hydrosol + Rosemary’s handmade lotion for skin hydration
* Salt baths w/face mask for relaxation + overall detox
* Bone broth for immune boosting
* Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Self massage) for lymphatic detox

There are SO many other good herbal/holistic remedies available to support us in these trying times, so dive in and see what resonates for you. :)

Also, be sure to wear your smoke masks, but also know how to properly use them… Here’s the link for more info on that.

Sending love to you all, and remember, life is short, fleeting – it can all change drastically in an instant. Be in gratitude today, hold your community close, and love one another deeply. <3

With so much love and healing blessings to you,