Animal Advocacy Organizations

PETA: www.peta.org

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is an international nonprofit charitable organization based in Norfolk, Virginia, with affiliates in the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, India, and the Asia-Pacific Region. Founded in 1980, PETA is dedicated to establishing and defending the rights of all animals. PETA operates under the simple principle that animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, or use for entertainment. PETA educates policymakers and the public about animal abuse and promotes kind treatment of animals.

MFA: www.mercyforanimals.org

Mercy For Animals (MFA) is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit animal advocacy organization. Founded in 1999 and over 12,000 members strong, MFA works to create a society where animals are treated with the respect and compassion they so rightly deserve.

Farm Sanctuary: www.farmsanctuary.org

Farm Sanctuary works to end cruelty to farm animals and promotes compassionate living through rescue, education and advocacy. We envision a world where the violence that animal agriculture inflicts upon people, animals and the environment has ended, and where instead we exercise values of compassion.

Great Restaurant Options for Vegetarians in Columbus

I thought it would be a good idea to share some delicious vegetarian dining options in Columbus. Finding these restaurants were a big help when I first moved here, and I am sure a lot of you could benefit from this information. By dining at these restaurants, you are contributing to our local economy in a healthier way.

Another wonderful thing about vegetarian meals is that you get to explore different ethnic foods. I pretty much eat a different ethnic food every day. Need ideas? Try these foods: Indian, Chinese, Thai, Greek, Mexican, Ethiopian, Japanese, and Middle Eastern. There are so many options. Enjoy!!!

My Favorites:

Northstar Cafe, www.thenorthstarcafe.com

Locations in Clintonville and the Short North

Favorites: Veggie burger and Korma Bowl

Benevolence Cafe, 614-221-9330

41 W Swan St., Columbus, OH 43215

Favorites: Sambar Lentil Soup with Goddess bread

Dragonfly, www.neo-vevents.com

247 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43201

Favorites: Menu changes every season

Taj Palace, www.tajpalacecolumbus.com

3794 Fishinger Blvd., Hilliard, OH 43026

Favorites: The lunch buffet

Chipotle Mexican Grille, www.chipotle.com

Various locations in Columbus

Favorites: Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

Practicing Yoga With Your Pets

I wanted to share a wonderful experience that I had last night and this morning, with my dogs. Last night, I was practicing some sun salutations on my mat in my home studio, about an hour before teaching a class. As I was in downward dog, my lab, Zen, walked behind my feet, and started licking my ankles. My ujjayi breath soon turned into laughter at the sight. He wouldn't stop. As I continued to practice and move towards the floor for badhakonasana, once again, he started to lick my feet. It was quite funny.

This morning, as they were a little sleepy after their walk and meal, I started my morning practice. As I was in downward dog, my other dog, Rocco, walked next to my mat and also stretched into downward dog, as if he was trying to teach me the real thing. As I went into prasarita padotasana, he did the cutest thing. He came to my mat, lied down with his chin on the floor, right between my legs. As I exhaled into my forward bend, my nose was about 2 inches from his nose, and all we did was look into each other's eyes. It was beautiful and so special. I think he went into a zone after that, because next thing I know, as I moved through my practice, he rolled unto his side, and placed his head close to my feet and stayed so still. He put the biggest smile on my face.

This is where I witness how yoga becomes a benefit, not just for the one who practices, but for the ones who surround you. What a way to share YOGA!

November - Lunch Hour Yoga Classes for Beginners

New yoga session begins!

Dates: November 6, 13, and 20
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Place: Worthington United Methodist Church
Address: 600 High Street, Worthington, OH
Drop In Fee: $15 per class
Monthly Session: $37.50 (includes 3 classes for November)

Diversity in Columbus

It is always wonderful to have the opportunity to embrace different cultures. For me, it is a way to enrich my life with new friends, ethnic foods, amazing traditions and rituals. It is also a way to learn how to respect and accept people for who they are and to learn from one another.

One of the many things I love about living in Columbus, Ohio, is the many presentations and festivals offered. Here is a list of CAPA shows you can attend to enrich your life. It is a great way to learn and appreciate what other cultures have to offer.

11/23/08: Tango Fire

12/19/08: Cherish the Ladies’ Celtic Christmas

1/31/09: Ballet Hispanico

3/15/09: African Children's Choir

3/25/09: Kodo Drummers of Japan

4/5/09: Spanish Harlem Orchestra

New Style in Bamboo and Organic Cotton

Looking to transition into more eco-friendly apparel? Here is a new Katica style in 70% bamboo, 30% organic cotton.

It feels yummy on your skin! Choose what color fits you best-Leaf or Black.

To shop online, visit: www.KaticaYoga.com

New Style to Promote Non-Violence

I am really excited to share this new item that I have launched for my Fall/Winter collection. It reads "Ahimsa" which means non-violence. I hope it will spread a positive message around the world.

If you want to shop online, please visit: www.KaticaYoga.com