“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” — Mary Oliver
Wellness Notes with Michelle
Supportive tools for moving well, aging with strength, and leaning into calm.
Hi everyone,
January arrives quietly — colder, darker, and slower by nature. While there’s often pressure to overhaul everything at once, winter reminds us that health is built through balance, not force.
This year, I invite you into a happy, healthy blend: moving your body every day — because your cells and joints need motion (motion really is lotion) — and allowing space for rest, reflection, and nervous system care.
With care, Michelle Yoga Therapist + Movement Specialist
🌿 This Month’s Insights
BOX BREATHING This is a four step calming breathing exercise.
Slide your finger along the first line as you count to four, and then hold your breath for a count of four, exhale on the next line for a count of four, and then hold for a count of four. Repeat up to 8 rounds.
~ These are available as a small square/magnet, great to easily access the website and sign up for yoga class~ please contact me if you'd like one.
I've added a few things to help keep you moving during the winter.
Grandma’s Barley Lentil Vegetable Soup
A grounding, nourishing winter staple — simple, hearty, and deeply comforting.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large can diced tomatoes w/juice
¼ cup barley
¼ cup red, green or brown lentils
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tbsp basil
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
2. Add garlic and basil, stir until fragrant.
3. Stir in barley, lentils, tomatoes and broth.
4. Bring to a slow boil, then lower to simmer, covered 45–60 minutes until tender. Additional vegetables can be added, and protein like cooked chicken, or sausage.
Brighten with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Season and enjoy slowly.
Closing Thought❤️ With Gratitude
Health isn’t built through pressure — it grows through consistency, kindness, and care.
Move your body daily. Rest when you need to. Breathe often. Let winter support your healing.
With warmth and gratitude, Michelle Of The Oaks | Health Gains
✨ Let’s Talk
Curious if yoga therapy could help with your stiffness, pain, or movement challenges? I offer 1:1 sessions for people just like you.
Book a Free Consultation Let’s explore what’s possible.
