SACRED SELF-CARE SERIES: GRACIE
It is my honor to introduce you to Gracie M. Jurkowski. I met this beauty and Michigan native through common interests online but a few months ago I was blessed to be able to attend one of her Restorative classes in person at The Collective True North. When she began the class by informing us that we would not be listening to music but instead the natural sounds of the outdoors to help us settle into the natural rhythms of the planet I knew I was in for a treat.
Gracie of Das Atemhaus - Photo Alloy Signature
What I love about Gracie is she integrates all types of elements into her teachings. As her website says: “Her teaching blends together elements from ecology, dance, and ceramics; using an interdisciplinary approach to connect with students and colleagues. Her attention to energetic detail is a defining quality in her work and instruction.”
Her graceful approach to the Art of Rest has been integrated into my life and I am forever grateful. Meet Gracie below.
(Tara, Founder, THARA SACRA)
DAILY SELF-CARE ROUTINE
Every morning I attempt (there are some days I slip a little) to rise at dawn. I like the early, muted colors only brought on by dawn and dusk. In this order, and I’m very particular about this order: I wash my face, brush my teeth, drink lemon water, dampen my feet with a THARA SACRA blend oil, practice movement for 15/30 minutes, read my daily devotional, pray, and BREATHE. Similar routine for bedtime and winding down.
WHAT LED YOU TO WORK IN WELLNESS
The deeper connection ignited by quiet. And my personal vendetta against downward facing dog in the beginning years of my practice. I sucked at that pose. As time grew on, I found out it’s not about poses at all, it’s about your ability to listen. But I thank my issues with downward facing dog for leading me through my practice, my 200 hr. yoga teacher training, my studies & apprenticeships, my studio, and now my Restorative Yoga Teacher Training curriculum.
WHAT DOES REST MEAN TO YOU
Demonstrating trust. An absolute necessity to function in this world. Priceless.
THREE THINGS YOU DRAW INSPIRATION FROM
Difficult question... Pottery vessels, nature and humans who have a romantic relationship with their work.
FAVORITE SPOT IN DETROIT
It use to be the Joe Louis Arena because I’m a huge Red Wing fan.
CURRENT MANTRA
May I listen better, in all situations (it’s really more of a prayer).
PRANAYAMA RECIPE
To reduce inflammation, lower agitation, and provide insight.
By Gracie - Das Atemhaus
Das Atemhaus - Photo Alloy Signature
Build up to it, may take several minutes to days, depending on your regular breathing practice.
Inhale to a count of 6.
No holding at the top of the inhale.
Exhale to a count of 6.
No holding at the bottom of the exhale.
Can be practiced everyday, anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes.
Want more from Gracie? Find her sharing her wisdom through her Restorative Yoga trainings throughout the United States. Connect with her online through Das Atemhaus Yoga (the house of breath).