Search Results for: core/about-julie-lusk/• https:/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/RicardoLuis@icloud.com

Hi

I never thought I’d ever be a writer, national speaker or recording artist.  In fact, I had good reasons for those beliefs, but that’s a different story.  But here I am, living proof that if you allow the flow of life, intuition, grace, good relationships, synchronicity, inspiration and action to be your guide and foundation, surprising things happen.  Somehow, your own true purpose and path will find you and support your efforts (yes, it also takes honing your skills and hard work too).

These days, I’m fortunate to regularly offer weekly yoga classes in-person and virtually. National and international  workshops on yoga, meditation, guided imagery and deep relaxation are given.  This combo gives me a nice balance of having the joy and comfort of cultivating ongoing relationships and watching people grow in body, mind and spirit, with the stimulation and challenge of designing original workshops and retreats, meeting new people and traveling to interesting places.

Businesses, schools and various organizations often invite me in to offer training in Desktop Yoga (R), stress management, and wellness strategies.  It’s so rewarding to watch people begin feeling energized and empowered on the spot!

I love learning.  I earned a graduate degree from VA Tech in counseling and have received training in numerous types of yoga ranging from extremely relaxing to quite vigorous. This centered me on the middle path.  There have been plenty of courses and retreats in yoga nidra, meditation, guided imagery, deep relaxation, energy work, and music.  Of course, living life, and my family and friends, have taught me the most.  See more about my education, training, and publications here.

Wholesome Resources is the interesting business I developed over 20 years ago.  We believe that stress relief, wellness strategies, and mind-body techniques are essential ingredients for personal and professional happiness.  We offer training and workshops for large and small groups at both worksites and retreat centers.  Individual mentoring too.

In the past, my work has included being regional director of six hospital-based holistic health and wellness centers (2 yrs), director of a health management center at a large medical clinic (10 yrs), assistant dean of students at a liberal arts college (7 yrs), director of a community college special services program (4 years), volunteer director of the Alive & Well Coalition (5 yrs), an awareness counselor in WV (2 yrs) … and other duties as assigned.

My home, with my husband and dogs, is in the greater Cincinnati area.  For fun, I enjoy making friends, hiking, playing music (flute, drums, harmonium, didgeridoo), making art messes, and reading all sorts of stuff.  I look forward to meeting you!

Julie Lusk, M.Ed., NCC, RYT-E500

Wholesome Resources ~~  Founder & Chieftess

Wholesome Resources and Services Provided

Julie is available as a business and conference speaker and consultant to groups and individuals.  Her books, recordings and other materials are plentiful.

Presenter and Professional Speaker (partial list)

• Businesses: Procter & Gamble, Fidelity Investments, General Electric, City of Staunton, Ethicon/J&J, Xpedx, Convergys, Cincinnati Bell, Lewis-Gale Medical Center, Allstate Insurance and more
• Yoga and Meditation Centers:  Kripalu (19 years), Jesuit Spiritual Center (9 years), Discovery Yoga (4 years), Sivananda / Bahamas, Satchidananda (10 years)– Satchidananda Ashram/Yogaville (7 years) and more
• Colleges and Universities:  University of Cincinnati, Roanoke College, Virginia Tech, University of Western Australia, Hollins College, and more.
• National Conventions:  National Wellness Conference (16 years), NICABM ( 10 years), Speaking of Women’s Health  (4 years), National Flute Convention (2 years), International Symposium on Community Health (Washington, Hong Kong, Japan) and more.
• Non-Profit Groups:  American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Jamaican Cancer Society, Council of Community Services, American Red Cross and more.

Published Books 

• Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation, Llewellyn, Woodbury, MN. 2021
• Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief, New Harbinger Publications, Oakland, CA. 2015
• Yoga Meditations: Timeless Mind-Body Practices for Awakening, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN. 2005
• Desktop Yoga, Penguin Group / Perigee Books, New York, NY.  1998.  Translated into Spanish, Dutch and German
• 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery and Inner Healing, Vol. 2, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN.  1993
• 30 Scripts for Relaxation, Imagery and Inner Healing, Vol. 1, Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN.  1992. Translated into Spanish and Italian

Audio Recordings

• Refreshing Journeys and many others (Whole Person Associates, Duluth, MN)
• Real Relaxation: Yoga Nidra (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Guided Mindfulness Meditations (Health Journeys)
• Yoga Nidra: Guided Meditations for Relaxation & Renewal (Health Journeys)
• Sa Ta Na Ma Meditation (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Power of Presence CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Wholesome Relaxation CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Wholesome Energizers CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Blue Moon Rising CD (Kunaki Publishers / WR)
• Many other

E-Books 

• Mind Body Mastery:  Guided Imagery, Meditation, Real Relaxation
• Stress Solutions Now
• Power Napper – Guided Relaxation
• 108 Easy Energy Answers
• Yoga on the Go (coming soon)
  
• The Original Desktop Yoga (coming soon)
• Desktop Yoga Strategies to Calm Down, Get Energized, Spark Creativity & Reduce Frustration (coming soon)

Clients

Her clients have included Procter & Gamble, Fidelity Investments, University of Cincinnati, General Electric, City of Staunton, Ethicon/J&J, Xpedx, Convergys, Cincinnati Bell, Lewis-Gale Medical Center, Allstate Insurance and more.

Julie has developed stress management materials and wellness programs for such organizations as the City of Staunton, Roanoke College, Medco Health and many others.

Her relaxation, imagery and affirmation CD’s are being used on an ongoing basis at Good Samaritan Hospital, American Heart Association, Hospice of Cincinnati, St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, American and Jamaican Cancer Societies, VA Tech and other organizations nationwide.

Media

She has appeared as a guest on numerous radio and television shows for CBS, ABC, FOX, ESPN and NBC affiliates, as well as South China Morning Post and Hong Kong Metro News Radio.

Yoga Journal, New Woman Magazine, Cincinnati Enquirer, Business Courier, Vegetarian Times, Body& Soul Journal for Holistic Living, Cincinnati Woman, IDEA Today, Roanoker, Wellness Management, among other publications, have featured Julie’s work in articles.

Julie’s Professional Awards and Commendations include 

• National Certified Counselor since 1985.  Julie was a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia for 20 years
• Registered E-500 Yoga Teacher via the Yoga Alliance since 2001
• YACEP (Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider) since 2015
• Award for Excellence in Health Promotion – Wellness Councils of America
• Outstanding Community Service Award – Council of Community Services, Roanoke, Virginia
• Business Associate of the Year- American Business Women’s Association    

Please contact Julie Lusk now.

513-248-9642 (yoga)

Click here to email.

This article is a yoga nidra FAQ on setting intentions & sankalpas for making durable positive changes effectively.

Yoga nidra is rapidly gaining in popularity these days, mostly because it’s so blissfully exhilarating.  Yoga nidra (pronounced nih-drah) means “yogic sleep” and is an ancient yoga practice with benefits supported by modern-day science.  It’s a powerful experience of progressively relaxing and restoring physically, energetically, mentally, and emotionally that naturally opens us to accessing our intuition, unconditional joy, and deep restorative peace.  It’s very refreshing too.  In fact, one hour of practice is equivalent to four hours of sleep.  See more documented benefits of yoga nidra here.

The yoga nidra process also makes it completely possible to clear out useless habits and bring about positive and durable changes to your lifestyle and positive personality changes by using a sankalpa at the start and the end of the practice.  A sankalpa is a special intention, a self-selected resolve that you choose yourself.  It’s a sacred vow and promise you make in support of your highest truth. Sample sankalpas are “I am courageous,” or “I have confidence,” or “My life is worthwhile.”   It’s a quality that helps you become or do something worthwhile with your life.  Likewise, it can be a reflection of your True Self such as “I am conduit of love,” or “My true nature is peace.”

How yoga nidra helps you make behavior changes and enables you to develop positive personal qualities.

“Our day-to-day frame of consciousness (beta brain waves) makes it extremely difficult to make and maintain our good intentions because they crash into our long term conditioning, habits, and social pressures,” as reported in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief (New Harbinger Publications, 2015).  “Through no fault of your own, your mind is simply not very receptive to making these changes.  During yoga nidra, we knowingly, consciously, and consecutively experience different types of brainwave levels that are receptive to change that include alpha, theta and delta frequencies and are associated with levels of consciousness.  The level reached during yoga nidra depends on the depth of your experience.  When we implant a resolve in the subconscious mind, useless thoughts and behaviors can be weeded out and the conditions are created for significant and transformative change to take root and grow.”  Success is fortified by staying with the same sankalpa from practice to practice until it becomes a reality and takes root.  Consistency counts.

Setting Intentions & Sankalpas

Time is set aside at the beginning of yoga nidra for a sankalpa to reveal itself naturally instead of intellectually.  Making intellectual sankalpas rarely yield results.  In other words, one that you “should” make or one to please others.  Instead, have one that resonates and rings true with you.  Go for a balance between letting it come to you intuitively and thinking it through.  Furthermore, you could have one specific to help with weight loss, getting more exercise or stopping an unhealthy habit, but it’s advised that you pick a grander quality instead.  In doing so, the behavior change is likely to happen anyway and you will also reap many more benefits.  For example, if you choose kindness as your sankalpa, true self-kindness will lead to eating better and exercising more by being kinder to yourself in support of your health.  In addition, kindness will naturally bring on generosity, patience, and other positive qualities.

Word your sankalpa positively, in the present tense, clearly, and concisely.  Keep it consistent.  Back it up sincerely with gratitude and inner will.  If using “I am” seems too challenging or too mindboggling, try adding “more and more” to it.  For example, “I am content, more and more.”

Sample Sankalpas:

• I am kind.
• I am trusting.
• I am accepting of my feelings. Or, I accept unhappiness as part of my human experience.
• I have abundance.
• I am grateful for a peaceful nature.
• I embrace all of who I am.
• I enjoy life fully.
• I welcome health and wellness.
• My true nature is joyful.

Using a Sankalpa during Yoga Nidra.

A sankalpa is first silently said at the beginning of your yoga nidra experience and with your whole heart.  It helps if you use your senses to imagine what it would be like if it were already true.  Once again, repeat your sankalpa several times near the end of yoga nidra.  Namely, when you are totally at ease and in the fertile delta brainwave state, and before coming back to full awareness.  This is when your brain is most receptive.

Outcomes

I had my doubts about the effectiveness of using a sankalpa, especially when writing Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief, so I put it to the test with a variety of students.  Much to our delight and satisfaction, results started rolling in.  Find out for yourself by reading their stories in the book.  Better yet, try it yourself.  Please let us know about your experience.

How to Experience Yoga Nidra:  

Like all worthwhile things, regular practice yields the best results.  It’s as easy as 1-2-3.

1. Listen to Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation | Audible – iTunes – Amazon
2. Read about it and get free audio downloads in Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation and Stress Relief (New Harbinger, 2015).
3. Experience yoga nidra on video/audio.
4. Attend a virtual yoga nidra class held weekly on Zoom.
5. Take a yoga nidra teacher training course and earn a certificate.
6. Get yoga nidra downloads here.

Resources: Books, Recordings & More

Get yoga nidra downloads here.

NEW! Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation

Experience peace and deeply restorative rest that heals your body, mind & spirit. Features 24 Yoga Nidra scripts written by author Julie Lusk and 12 of the world's master teachers. Enjoy 6 levels of relaxation for a joyful meditative experience. Learn to use yogic sleep to revitalize your inner reservoir of intuitive understanding and unconditional joy. Audiobook available. CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...

Yoga Nidra for Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief - Print Book & Audio download

Yoga Nidra can stop tension in its tracks with a wonderfully, powerful & unique state of deep relaxation, mental clarity & insightful awareness. These practical, empowering relaxation exercises, meditations that soothe and visualizations that renew are based on classic yoga and backed by modern science. They’ll help you unwind, replenish, and feel refreshed with durable peace and unconditional joy. CLICK the blue title link above to find out more...

Yoga Nidra Essentials CD

Find your calm spot. Brighten your energy. Enjoy a more meaningful life. Experience 6 levels of relaxation. Reclaim optimal health for your body, mind & heart. Laura says "My focused mind easily. I was 100% worry-free. It's wonderful." By Julie Lusk, 6-time author. Digital downloads available.

Author: Julie Lusk, M.Ed., E-RYT 500

Get your free Yoga Basics Guidebook, an eBook by Julie Lusk.  It has…

• How to Practice Yoga:  Steadiness and Comfort vs. Struggle and Control
• Guidelines for the Practice of Yoga.
• General Benefits, Cautions and Contraindications of Yoga
• Yoga Guidelines for Health Conditions
• Yoga During Pregnancy:  General Guidelines and Cautions
• Yoga Practice Sheet
• Basic Alignment and Selected Warm Ups to Open Joints and Warm Muscles
• Yoga Practice Sheet – Earth Series ©
• Yoga Practice Sheet – Sky Series ©

As a bonus, you will get the Wholesome Resources News. It features:

• Practical tips for improving your health through relaxation training, yoga,
  meditation, and other mind/body techniques. See previously published articles here.
• Info on books, CDs and other services from Julie Lusk
• Special offers, class and workshop schedules, valuable opportunities and more
• Sandy Byrd says ” Here are real practices for real life!  The content is great…Practical ideas that can be implemented easily.  I always love the quotes.”
• Fine Print
  • Your email address is protected and never shared.
  • You will not get a duplicate newsletter if you already subscribe.
  • You can instantly unsubscribe anytime.

Experience the Magic of SoulCollage®

Info & Registration

SoulCollage® is a fun process of making small collages from pictures and images that catch your eye. It boosts creativity, intuition, and self-discovery using a special and unique process to nurture your well-being. It’s different than typical collages, scrap-booking or vision boarding. It’s a special way to give expression to your inner voice by making collages and through conversation. Register now to find out for yourself.  

No artistic talent is needed – cutting and pasting is all that’s required. New and experienced folks are welcome.  Scroll down to pre-register.

SoulCollage easily becomes very empowering due to combining the proven process with the special supplies used. A personal deck of cards are made one at a time to weave parts of yourself into wholeness.  You’ll learn to consult your cards using a simple, yet elegant, process for gaining insights, answering questions, and getting more meaning from life.

5″x8” mat boards and special see-through sleeves are used.  To spark your creative imagination and intuition, it’s customary to use pictures with no words on them. Precut images are supplied from a variety of sources. Your own photographs and images can be added. Participants typically make from 1 to 6 cards during a session.

• You use your own supplies for Zoom workshops. ♥ BUY supplies here if needed.
• All materials are supplied during in-person workshops – even snacks.

Comments from Participants

“I like the sense of community, the creativity, using my intuition, looking at images and finding beauty and meaning.”

“I like how it helps me see life through a different lens, a different perspective.”

“I love the soul-searching, self discovery, and connecting with others.”

Julie Lusk is a trained SoulCollage facilitator since 2015. She loves sharing it with others.

• What is SoulCollage FAQ handout (pdf) explains what SoulCollage cards are, how to make them, types of cards, and how to use them on.
• Get Julie’s Soul Collage READING Worksheet 2 per page 2021 (002) here. (pdf)
• See the supplies needed.  Order a packet.
• Get detailed information from founder Seena Frost’s book, SoulCollage® Evolving.
• Register below ↓↓

2026 SoulCollage Schedule 

• Come to one, some, or all!
• All times are in the Eastern Time Zone
• Schedule is subject to change
• Click here to contact Julie Lusk to save your spot or make inquiries.

Registration

• Pay online below OR send a check to payable to Julie Lusk to 5678 Willnean Dr., Milford, OH  45150
• $30 on Zoom for a virtual workshop from your own home using your own materials. Purchase supplies and have them mailed to you in advance if needed. Options include just cards & sleeves or a complete workshop supply packet including instructions, mat boards, sleeves, frame, glue stick, and a variety of inspiring, trimmed images. Get supplies here.
• Register now for all 5 in 2026 for $125 to save time and money.
• Schedule is subject to change.  Verify dates and times here. 
• Cancellation/ Refund Policy: Contact Julie for details. No refund or credit for no shows.

SoulCollage (r) Workshop

Register now! Checkout at "View Cart." A confirmation email is sent prior to the SoulCollage workshop with details and directions.

Price: $40.00

Price: $30.00

DATES & QUANTITY : : June 20August 8October 24
Name of Participant(s):
Your Price: $ 
Quantity:  

Go to CART to review your order & check out.  

Julie T. Lusk, M.Ed.
Wholesome Resources
5678 Willnean Dr.
Milford, OH   45150

Greater Cincinnati Area

Welcome!

Thanks for purchasing the audiobook

Yoga Nidra Meditations: 24 Scripts for True Relaxation by Julie Lusk
Use this guide as a supplement to the audiobook

FYI

• Acknowledgements and Testimonials are here (pdf) 
• Audio Contributor’s List here (pdf)
• Print book here
• eBook here
• Audible book here
• Full catalog of Julie’s books, recordings and more good things are here
• Amazon author page

Chapter 1 – Yoga Nidra Essentials

• Yoga Nidra Practice Chart – Here
• References and Documentation for Yoga Nidra Benefits for the body and brain  – Here
• Figure 1: Atma Kosha Labyrinth Diagram © 2015 Julie T. Lusk

Chapter 2 – Guidelines for Personal Practice

• Savasana: Yoga’s Relaxation Pose | Description and pictures are here

Appendix 1 – Pratyahara and the Rotation of Consciousness

Sensory Motor Cortex of the Brain  (c) 2015 Julie T Lusk
Used with permission from Yoga Nidra For Complete Relaxation & Stress Relief, page 116.  All rights reserved. 

Appendix 2 – Chakras: Subtle Energy Centers

• Go here for more info on chakras. See a handy chakra chart. Get a Chakra Energy Flow Meditation
• Figure 4: Chakras with symbols and locations

Glossary & Pronunciation Guide pdf

• Here

Recommended Resources pdf

• Books, recordings, trainings, etc. here

Bibliography & References pdf

• Here

Contributor’s List pdf

• Here (pdf)