Yoga For Life

My Yoga For Life has MOVED

2007-09-16T07:44:00.000-05:00

We've move to our own domain so we will no longer be posting here. Visit us at our new home and bookmark it then subscribe to our RSS so you can receive every post directly to your inbox.

Our new site is more interactive, giving you the ability to join in and share your own yoga experiences as well as ask questions and share information.

So, come on over and visit us at http://www.myyogaforlife.com/

See ya over there:)

Yogagirl

Relax and Renew: Stress Less, Lose Belly Fat

2007-02-08T05:27:00.000-06:00

Relax and Renew: Stress Less, Lose Belly Fat

It's easy to get wrapped up in all the hype about diets. Instead of adopting a short-term strategy to drop a few pounds (which may backfire and result in twice the weight gain), it's better to focus on finding a balanced approach to eating and exercise that you can enjoy and will keep you healthy over the long haul. Yoga can help you along the way by reducing stress.

In response to stress, levels of the hormone cortisol rise; for people who chronically worry, those levels can stay high. Elevated cortisol levels not only stimulate overeating, they ensure that any additional calories are efficiently converted to fat. Worse, under the influence of cortisol, the excess fat tends to get deposited in the abdomen, a particularly unhealthy place. Big bellies are linked to insulin resistance-a precursor to Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes-and heart disease. By combating stress, yoga helps to normalize cortisol levels and keep belly fat to a minimum.

Read More from our favourite Yoga site

Yoga Basics: Remember the Gift of Life

2007-02-02T18:04:00.000-06:00

Anjali mudra, or pressing the hands together at the heart, is an age-old means of helping human beings to remember the gift of life and to use it wisely. Anjali means "offering," and in India this mudra is often accompanied by the word "namaste." In daily life, this prayerful gesture can be used as a way of bridging inner and outer experience, when saying grace before meals, communicating our truth within a relationship, or as a means of cooling the fires of stress when feeling rushed or reactionary.

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Yoga Basics: Yoga Vocabulary

2007-02-01T17:10:00.000-06:00

As beginners, we might hear our yoga teachers a lot of words we don't quite understand. Hatha? Asana? Mudra? What are these unusual words and what do they mean? It's understandable to be overwhelmed by it all after a class or two. Even experienced yogis will probably encounter a word or two they don't recognize every once in a while. But understanding Sanskrit Yoga Terms allows us to deepen our practice by incorporating key concepts into each session.

Here's a quick vocabulary lesson for those who are still mystified by yoga lingo:

Asana ("seat"): a physical posture (see also anga, mudra); the third limb (anga) of Patanjali's eightfold path (astha-anga-yoga); originally this meant only meditation posture, but subsequently, in hatha yoga, this aspect of the yogic path was greatly developed

Hatha Yoga ("Forceful Yoga"): a major branch of yoga, developed by Goraksha and other adepts c. 1000 C.E., and emphasizing the physical aspects of the transformative path, notably postures (asana) and cleansing techniques (shodhana), but also breath control (pranayama)

Mantra (from the verbal root man "to think"): a sacred sound or phrase, such as om, hum, or om namah shivaya, that has a transformative effect on the mind of the individual reciting it; to be ultimately effective, a mantra needs to be given in an initiatory context (diksha)

Mudra ("seal"): a hand gesture (such as cin-mudra) or whole-body gesture (such as viparita-karani-mudra); also a designation of the feminine partner in the Tantric sexual ritual

Niyama ("[self-]restraint"): the second limb of Patanjali's eightfold path, which consists of purity (saucha), contentment (samtosha), austerity (tapas), study (svadhyaya), and dedication to the Lord (ishvara-pranidhana)

To learn about more common yoga terms read our more comprehensive guide.

Reflection: Take a Mindful Walk

2006-11-05T08:24:00.000-06:00

In walking meditation, the primary object of attention is the process of walking itself. In other words, to sharpen awareness and train the mind to concentrate, you pay close attention to the physical act of walking, the way you take one step after another. Thus the object is more obvious and tangible than in the more refined meditation techniques, such as focusing on the breath or a mantra, which are often used in traditional sitting meditation. Focusing the mind on this more obvious object helps to avoid sleepiness (or restlessness) that meditators sometimes experience during their sitting meditation.

The guidelines for walking meditation are similar to that of sitting meditation: Choose an appropriate time and decide how long to meditate; for beginners 15 to 30 minutes may be suitable. The walking path can be either inside or outside, depending upon your preference and the area available. Also, whenever possible, it is better to practice in bare feet, although this is not essential.

Stand at one end of the path and hold your hands gently together in front of your body. The eyes remain open, gazing down along the path about two yards ahead. The intention is not to be looking at anything in particular but simply to see that you remain on the path and know when to turn around.

You should now try to center yourself by putting aside all concern for the past and future. In order to calm the mind and establish awareness in the present, abandon any preoccupation with work, home, and relationships, and bring the attention to the body. The meditation exercise is simply to walk at a slow, relaxed pace, being fully aware of each step until you reach the end of the path. When you arrive at the end of the path, stop for a moment and check to see what the mind is doing. Is it being attentive? If necessary, reestablish awareness. Then turn and walk back to the other end in a similar fashion, remaining mindful and alert. Continue to pace up and down for the duration of the meditation period, gently making an effort to sustain awareness and focus attention on the process of walking.

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A Review of Gaiam Yoga Tools

2006-05-30T15:26:00.000-05:00

Gaiam is a wonderful site full of informative articles and products that will help you create a healthier lifestyle.

We recommend Gaiam for all of your Yoga clothing, equipment and learning tools as they offer a wide selection of good quality merchandise that will increase the enjoyment of your yoga experience.

Visit our Shop Today

Planning for a yoga retreat…

2006-05-29T15:21:00.000-05:00

Excited to join a yoga retreat? Perhaps you need to plan everything first, so that your retreat will be a successful one.

Here are some FAQs that will guide you in planning your yoga retreat.

1.Why join a yoga retreat?

One of the best things about retreats is that you give yourself an ultimate treat. A yoga retreat is intended for all of us who want to have a no-stress vacation while doing the activity you love, yoga.

It is a learning experience wherein you can relax, unwind and renew your sense of health. Also, it is an opportunity to connect and share with other people with similar experiences and explore the exciting nature adventures.

A perfect yoga retreat allows us to go more deeply into our yoga practice in its different aspects: postures, breathing, and meditation.

2.Who goes on a yoga retreat?

Yoga retreats are usually designed to progressively introduce the practice of yoga giving anyone the opportunity to learn on their own pace and ability. It is offered not only for yoga professionals but also to yoga students of any level.

Family members, couples, singles with slightly more women within the age range of 24-65 years also join a retreat. Even other people who are looking for a transformative and memorable vacation experience enroll to a yoga retreat.

3.Where to spend the retreat?

Yoga retreats are offered all over the world. So, you need to decide on a particular place. You can choose a place you’re interested in exploring. Any relaxing place that is ideal for yoga. The venue can be close to the nature, in the countryside or near the sea.

4.Do I need to get a yoga instructor?

It is a must that you get one especially for beginners. The retreats provide the opportunity for the instructor to get a better sense of your strengths and weaknesses. In this way, he will have the idea on how to guide you.

It would also be beneficial if you have attended a yoga class with the instructor before the retreat. This is for you to have a better confidence that their teaching style and approach will meet your needs.

5.Do I need to know someone else on the retreat to get the most from it?

Absolutely not, it’s normal that some of you don’t know the other. One of the good things about the retreat is that you’ll have the chance to work with other people. These people would be your best source of information, and be your friends. Also, through the yoga retreat you’ll be able to learn new techniques, and above all, have fun.

6.What to wear during the retreat?

Casual, comfortable clothing would be best. But if you are traveling somewhere unfamiliar, you can check with the retreat organizer the local weather of the place. This is to ensure you on the appropriate clothes to wear. However, in some cases clothing requirements are likely defined especially if there will be religious services.

7.What to bring on your yoga retreat?

Yoga retreats vary, some are like camping, in hotels, and others are closer to the resorts. Therefore, please ask your retreat organizer on the things you should bring. You might be advised to bring some special items like flashlights, bathing suit, yoga mats, etc. Be sure to inquire about necessary passports and visas if traveling overseas.

So, ready now for the breathtaking experience? Just keep in mind your purpose that is to relax, learn and have fun!

Here's a list of websites offering wonderful retreats all over the world....

My Yoga For Life - Retreats

A Review on Yoga Poses Galleries on the internet

2006-05-28T15:14:00.000-05:00

With numerous resources that you can find from the internet, it may be a difficult task for you to find a good yoga postures that will fit in your needs.

And people being more adapt to visual learning, it is much better for us to see the actual pose than to read out the complicated instructions on how to do this properly.

So we have searched through the World Wide Web and compiled all the best yoga poses galleries that can surely help you in your yoga needs.

YOGAGALLERY.NET
http://www.yogagallery.net

This website has good resource of yoga poses galleries. They provide yoga classes and workshops designed to increase employee productivity.

They are much more into mental and physical well being and the interests for optimal workforce performance.

They believe that yoga is a scientific discipline of removing or eradicating stress and tension and its source.

They’re yoga poses galleries exudes the belief that all tension both physical and mental, is stored somewhere in the body and true stress reduction is a matter of discovering how to release that tension on both levels.

They’re Yoga programs directly addresses tension in both the body and the mind. Our classes remove stress from both sources since tension in one area has a direct effect on the other.

SHIVJAG.CO.NZ
http://www.shivjag.co.nz

This website introduces you to the practice of Yoga, and to the Sunrise Yoga or much more known as the HATHA YOGA all of their classes are provided in Christchurch, New Zealand.

They also supply a range of Yoga products. They also have a lot of photos available on their yoga poses galleries which can really help you in your yoga posture needs.

This site’s yoga page provides information about sunrise yoga and Neti Pot for nasal cleansing.

The site provides general information about Yoga including coming events, and they also have a page offering books related to Yoga.

YOGAATWORK.CO.UK
http://www.yogaatwork.co.uk

This yoga site was founded by Phil Aston, a specialist in yoga which specializes in stress management and development.

They offer a good size of yoga poses galleries complete with instructions on how to do them correctly.

They offer a full holistic approach to mind and body health. Their proven record in helping people overcome stress and enjoy their lives is paramount in this approach.

Their yoga school is located 25 meters from the sea with views over Mount Bay and Saint Michaels Mount in United Kingdom.

Their Yoga poses galleries include pictures and instruction of some basic and expert’s yoga poses. They have in their Yoga poses galleries the following poses; The Triangle pose, the wheel pose, the side plank pose, lunging salute, the tree, cobra, the crane pose, the downward facing dog and other yoga poses.

For additional details just visit their site and see for yourself the other available yoga poses.

NOWANDZENYOGA.COM
http://www.nowandzenyoga.com

This site also offers an extensive list of photos on their yoga poses galleries. Their studio is located on the 4th floor of D tower in Cabotville, Chicoppe Center.

It has 1,200 square feet of space that is big enough for you to roll around. They have polished hardwood floors, large traditional south facing windows and big bathrooms.

They also have ample space for parking and the studio is accessible by stairs or elevator.

This are just a few list of yoga poses galleries available online, there are so many other sites that may offer a better list of yoga poses galleries compared to this site.

So don’t limit yourself to this list. If you haven’t found what you need on the listed sites above, just go around the net and search them on your own.

You can also visit My Yoga For Life to find more Yoga resources.

Yoga Apparel Becomes Fashion

2006-05-27T15:07:00.000-05:00

Yoga is all the rage lately. Everyday, a number of people decide to engage in Yoga for the benefits it provides, from the physical aspect down to the spiritual and mental health.

Various forms of Yoga correspond to different people of different walks of life, depending on certain factors such as age and lifestyle. Yoga is open to all who can accommodate it. And one can perform or do Yoga as often as they wish without restriction. The effects and benefits are seen as time goes by and it is not surprising that many people are inclined to practice it.

Yoga includes equipments, clothes, accessories as well as facilities to initiate learning. So how are you going to get up and choose what you wear on Yoga activities?

Yoga clothes should always be inclined to giving the best comfort. Although there is no particular Yoga clothe or apparel that you are supposed to wear during or when performing Yoga, it is necessary that you are comfortable with what you wear.

However, there are some considerations when choosing your Yoga clothes.

First and foremost is comfort.

Since you are going to perform different positions or Yoga postures, you must wear clothing that will not restrict you from moving freely in any manner. Your clothes should offer ease of movement and must be attuned to letting your different body parts to twist and stretch in various ways and postures.

It is advisable to choose a clothing which is made from pure organic cotton because this will provide maximum comfort. With this kind of material, the body is allowed to breathe as it should be. In addition, the clothing you choose must be sweat absorbent so that you will not feel sticky and moist when you sweat during the activity.

Although there are far more attractive and appealing designs of yoga clothing that you can choose from, always keep in mind to consider the clothing that fits you right and that fits your body frame.

Next consideration is the expenses.

when you buy your Yoga clothes, you should not give in to the extremely soaring prices despite its fashionable design or style. You should be practical enough so that you may invest your money on some other things rather than just a piece of Yoga pants.

Why buy expensive designer Yoga clothes when you can buy a fashionable one at half the price?

It is important that you purchase the apparel that looks attractive yet packed with comfort and a fitting price. Moreover, it is better that you purchase the clothes which can be worn even without a Yoga class or session.

Multi-functionality is stressed here because it makes great savings and looks good to wear as well. It would be impractical if you bought that one which lacks functionality and dynamism. It is better to buy those which you can wear even on regular days.

There are many types of Yoga clothing which are not only good looking but also has a unique look when worn outside of class. It is quite annoying to have bought Yoga clothes which shrink or change its shape after being washed in a washing machine.

Avoid buying these by choosing those clothes made from organic materials and those that do not change shape easily.

It is also advised that you wear a good sports bra since this will help you a lot during your Yoga class. This will provide support and therefore, must be comfortable and appropriate.

Yoga DVD as your yoga guide

2006-05-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

Yoga has grown popular these days. Millions of people are into it. And millions are blessed and satisfied by the benefits and advantages it gives. Some still go to various Yoga centers to attend class. But some are more into the physical or mental fitness rather than enlightenment or for high-consciousness.

When one practices Yoga, he or she has an advantage over the average individual because of her improved control and flexibility. Moreover, one does not easily get stresses or anxious when into Yoga.

However, most of the people prefer Yoga with asanas or posture while a little fraction prefer or engage in meditation. Most of those who are into Yoga say that they have really improved in different aspects, from the physical level down to the spiritual level.

While some say that they have attained a highly-conscious well-being. Getting in better shape is also one of the advantages of practicing Yoga. Some hire a tutor while some enter a local Yoga center. While some buy dvd’s and videos that are instructional and easy to follow.

It has touched and helped the lives of people and give hope to others which suffer from physical problems. Aside from that, Yoga is for everybody, may she or he be an engineer or professor or executive.

And despite the faiths, Yoga can still be a solution. Yoga relieves one’s stress and sometimes hinders the formation of a disorder.

Moreover, you will become physically fit in body, mind, and spirit if you decide to be a Yogi. Nevertheless, one can enjoy the benefits of it once you engage in it. Some of these benefits are enormous. First and foremost, it makes you feel good about yourself. You become stress-free and you are not anxious of the things that happen in your daily life.

You suddenly realize that you have indeed changed once you start doing Yoga. So whether you want to shape up or simply have a reflection, Yoga is the perfect solution to your needs.

It controls and manages depression, blood circulation, stress, back pain, fatigue and other conditions. Aside from that, it lowers fat and helps you develop an improved system or body health and well-being. There are many different forms and kinds of Yoga. One can choose which kind he or she wants to venture.

In addition, Yoga is very dynamic and it helps you create a sense of well-being and improves your concentration as well as your creativity.

Yoga Now DVD Set

With Yoga, you can chill out and burn fat at the same time. One does not need a personal tutor on Yoga to help you get started. There are instructional DVD’s and videos available in the market.

However, there are also books that have easy-to-follow instructions to aid you in your learning. The internet is also a storeroom for the much information you might need to get it working. Some DVD’s are for beginners which focus on the basic poses and positions. Some are purely for meditation only.

Nevertheless, some are Yoga workout for seniors who want to know more of the various asanas and poses. There are also available DVD’s which contain rhythms and Yoga music to aid in your session. While some DVD’s focus on the preparation for meditation.

In addition, there are DVD’s which tackle relaxation and breathing methods for meditation and Yoga.

Fighting the Cobra - Good Yoga Posture

2006-05-24T14:54:00.000-05:00

Tips and Steps to Keep up Good Yoga Posture

Keeping up a good yoga posture is all it takes for you to be able to keep up with a good yoga practice.

Yoga's not only fine for achieving balance, developing calm, and making you elastic enough to make your body move to its utmost. A yoga posture can also build the inner strength.

Fighting the Cobra

This relieves slight pain in your back and tones abs

First step: Stretch out on your stomach with legs and feet joined in together. Plant palms on the floor below shoulders with fingers facing onward.

Second step: Next is to lift the upper body by gradually lifting the head and chest, just make sure that you keep your shoulders down. (Pelvis and thighs shouldn't leave the yoga mat.)

The last step: Hold your pose for about twenty to thirty seconds as you breathe in even breaths all the way through your nose. Go back to your preliminary location and do it all over again.

Strengthens your abs

First: In the first yoga posture, you should situate yourself in a standing position with legs hip width separately, holding arms directly ahead with palms facing down.

Second: Twist your knees and squat if you want as if you're about to sit in a chair in your classroom. Make sure to center weight in your heels, lock it and don't bring hips lower than the level of your knees.

Third: Allow yourself to reach forward, and center your eyes in a straight line ahead while breathing in and breathing out all the way through the nose. Hold this yoga posture for about 20 seconds. Gradually go back to standing position, and then you can release your arms.

The Wind-Relieving Posture

This yoga posture stretches your spine and helps in the digestion of your stomach. It’s a good thing to have a good running stomach so that you will always feel fresh.

First: Recline on your rear or back. As you breathe in, drag your right knee near to your chest. Keep your left leg in a straight line and on the ground.

Second: push your shoulders and the rear side of your neck into the ground at the same time as firmly holding your knee. You can breathe for ten seconds only. This might be quick but seems longer when you execute it.

Third: Change the sides, while holding the left knee to your chest for about ten seconds. Complete this set by hugging both of your knees to your chest and holding it for another ten seconds. Do the set again.

The Upward Boat Posture

This strengthens your abs, improves your balancing ability, and also helps in digestion.

First: Sit down on the floor. Bend your knees and place feet flat on the floor.

Second: breathe in, bend back and raise heels off the ground, straightening your legs as possible as you can. Expand your arms with palms facing downward. If you find it difficult to perform, you can rest your hands beneath your knees for support. This may be a difficult yoga posture to perform but after a few practices, you will never have that difficulty again.

Third: while you hold the pose for thirty seconds, you should keep your back in a straight line, and make sure your abs are doing the work.

Practice this yoga posture all over again when you have time and you will find it easy to execute after you have continuously repeated it. A yoga posture can save your health, your digestion and your backbone so better keep it up.

Benefit of Yoga Part II

2006-05-23T14:49:00.000-05:00

The practice of Yoga brings with it many physical and emotional benefits that the majority of people are unaware of.

This article is quite long, so we have broken it up into two parts. The first part is an introduction to Yoga and a overview of the major physical and psychological benefits of Yoga, while the second part shows how practicing yoga daily can have a profound effect on your ability to create a healthy lifestyle for yourself.

Supporting a Healthy Lifestyle

There is some very interesting psychology behind this that students of western thinkers (e.g. Freud, Jung, Fromm, etc.) will find familiar and, indeed, quite rational. When an individual decides to be happy, something within that person activates; a kind of will or awareness emerges. This awareness begins to observe the jungle of negative thoughts that are swimming constantly through the mind.

Rather than attacking each of these thoughts – because that would be an unending struggle! – yoga simply advises the individual to watch that struggle; and through that watching, the stress will diminish (because it becomes exposed and thus unfed by the unconscious, unobserving mind!).

At the same time, as an individual begins to reduce their level of internal negativity, subsequent external negative behaviors begin to fall of their own accord; habits such as excessive drinking, emotional overeating, and engaging in behaviors that, ultimately, lead to unhappiness and suffering.

With this being said, it would be an overstatement to imply that practicing yoga is the easy way to, say, quit smoking, or to start exercising regularly. If that were the case, yoga would be ideal! Yoga simply says that, based on rational and scientific cause and effect relationships that have been observed for centuries, that when a person begins to feel good inside, they naturally tend to behave in ways that enhance and promote this feeling of inner wellness.

As such, while smoking (for example) is an addiction and the body will react to the lessening of addictive ingredients such as tar and tobacco (just to name two of many!), yoga will help the process. It will help provide the individual with the strength and logic that they need in order to discover that smoking actually doesn’t make them feel good.

In fact, once they start observing how they feel, they’ll notice without doubt that instead of feeling good, smoking actually makes one feel quite bad inside; it’s harder to breathe, for one.

Scientists have proven that there is a true physical addiction that is in place, alongside an emotional addiction that can be just as strong; perhaps even stronger. The point here is simply to help you understand that yoga can help a person make conscious living choices that promote healthy and happy living. This can include:

- quitting smoking

- reducing excess drinking

- eating healthier

- getting more sleep

- reducing stress at work (and everywhere else for that matter)

- promoting more harmonious relationships all around

Please remember: yoga doesn’t promise anyone that these things will simply happen overnight. At most, yoga is the light that shows you how messy things in the basement really are; and once that light is on, it becomes much more straightforward – not to mention efficient and time effective – to clean things up!

Emotional Benefits

Yoga has also been hailed for its special ability to help people eliminate feelings of hostility and inner resentment. As a result of eliminating these toxic emotions, the doorway to self acceptance and self actualization opens.

Pain Management Benefits

Pain management is another benefit of yoga. Since pain and chronic pain are conditions that affect all of us at some point, understanding the positive link between yoga and pain management could be invaluable.

It can also be financially valuable, since the pain medication industry is a multi-billion dollar marketplace and many people, especially as they age, find that their insurance or government coverage won’t cover some pharmaceutical and over-the-counter pain relief medications. The website www.lifepositive.com provides some illuminating information on yoga and pain management:

Yoga is believed to reduce pain by helping the brain's pain center regulate the gate-controlling mechanism located in the spinal cord and the secretion of natural painkillers in the body.

Breathing exercises used in yoga can also reduce pain. Because muscles tend to relax when you exhale, lengthening the time of exhalation can help produce relaxation and reduce tension.

Awareness of breathing helps to achieve calmer, slower respiration and aid in relaxation and pain management. Yoga's inclusion of relaxation techniques and meditation can also help reduce pain. Part of the effectiveness of yoga in reducing pain is due to its focus on self-awareness.

This self-awareness can have a protective effect and allow for early preventive action.

Real People, Real Benefits

The website www.beingyoga.com provides some great testimonials from real people – not mystical Yogis or people hailing from a spiritual school – who have experienced positive results from their yoga experiences. Here’s but one of them:

"Bikram Yoga has helped manage my diabetes unbelievably. I have curtailed my insulin injections by 50%. I have lost 30 pounds, completely lost the desires to smoke, drink alcohol and eat junk food. I even wrote a book on how it saved my life called, No More Diabetes, How Yoga Saved my Life." - John Spanek

In part I of the Benefit of Yoga we discussed a brief history and introduction to Yoga and how it can physically and psychologically benefit those that practice it daily.

Benefit of Yoga Part I

2006-05-22T14:44:00.000-05:00

The practice of Yoga brings with it many physical and emotional benefits that the majority of people are unaware of.

This article is quite long, so we have broken it up into two parts. The first part is an introduction to Yoga and a overview of the major physical and psychological benefits of Yoga, while the second part shows how practicing yoga daily can have a profound effect on your ability to create a healthy lifestyle for yourself.

Yoga is a science; and indeed, in many places in the world (such as India), it is referred to as a science. This is not mere playing with words; it truly is approached as a science, which means that it is understood in terms of the scientific method.

Yogic science seeks to verify cause and effect, and build principles based upon objective observations. Indeed, in many places in the world, to be a yogic master of any credibility, one must be highly educated in the sciences, including physics and the biological sciences.

This discussion on yoga as science is important for us to have here, because it allows us to sensible ask the question: what are the benefits of yoga? After all, if yoga is a faith or a belief, then asking this question isn't fair; because it's one that yoga cannot answer in terms that we can objectively understand.

Yoga is a science; as empirical and pragmatic as kinesiology, or exercise science, which seeks to understand how the body acts and reacts to changes in the internal physical environment. And even more simply than any of this: each of us has a right to ask the basic question why should I bother doing this yoga thing? before we should be asked to consider experiencing it for ourselves.

Indeed, while the experience of yoga cannot be reduced to words – just as reading a book on preparing for a marathon isn't going to actually physically prepare you to run a marathon – the goals and principles of yoga can easily be discussed.

Here's the Mayo Clinic's take on the benefits of meditation:

"Meditation is used by people who are perfectly healthy as a means of stress reduction. But if you have a medical condition that's worsened by stress, you might find the practice valuable in reducing the stress-related effects of allergies, asthma, chronic pain and arthritis, among others."

Yoga involves a series of postures, during which you pay special attention to your breathing — exhaling during certain movements and inhaling with others. You can approach yoga as a way to promote physical flexibility, strength and endurance or as a way to enhance your spirituality.

The Mind-Body Connection

Yoga is centered on the mind-body connection. This mind-body harmony is achieved through three things:

- postures (asanas)

- proper breathing (pranayama)

- meditation

Mind and body draw inspiration and guidance from the combined practices of asanas, breathing, and meditation. As people age (to yogis, ageing is an artificial condition), our bodies become susceptible to toxins and poisons (caused by environmental and poor dietary factors).

Yoga helps us through a cleaning process, turning our bodies into a well synchronized and well-oiled piece of machinery.

Physical Benefits

By harmonizing these three principles, the benefits of yoga are attained. And just what are these benefits?

- equilibrium in the body’s central nervous system

- decrease in pulse

- respiratory and blood pressure rates

- cardiovascular efficiency

- gastrointestinal system stabilization

- increased breath-holding time

- improved dexterity skills.

- Improved balance

- Improved depth perception

- Improved memory

Psychological Benefits

As noted above, Yoga also delivers an array of psychological benefits; and in fact, this is a very common reason why people begin practicing it in the first place. Perhaps the most frequently mentioned psychological benefit of yoga is an improved ability to manage stress. Yoga diminishes an individual’s levels of anxiety, depression, and lethargy; thus enabling him/her to focus on what’s spiritual and important: achieving balance and happiness.

In part II of the Benefit of Yoga we'll reveal how yoga can help deal with stress, unhealthy habits and pain management. The benefits of Yoga go far beyond meditation and stretching, it is a way to release those toxic emotions that tend to stand in the way of living a healthy life.

Using Yoga For Weight Loss

2006-05-21T14:42:00.000-05:00

By: Michael Paetzold

Yoga can be put to good use for taking off excess pounds through the power of creating a state of mental and physical well being. The basic tenets of Yoga promotes a healthy lifestyle and when combined with a calorie reduction can help to speed up your weight loss. It will increase your metabolism by increasing the caloric burning process. All weight loss is based on using more calories than you take in. It will also allow you to increase your ability to concentrate and focus.

Your thyroid regulates your metabolism and is responsible for the chemical processes that transform food into energy. Yoga uses a series of twisting poses that will help to stimulate the work flow of the internal organs. This will cause your metabolism to increase and burn more calories which will eventually cause you to have a lower body weight. Another side effect is that it will help to improve your circulation and increase your energy level.

The various back bends combined with the forward bends will help to stimulate the metabolism. The poses that affect the neck region can be helpful in stimulating the thyroid if the weight problem is caused by a hormonal imbalance. Poses that will help the most for this include the camel, rabbit, plow, bridge and head stand. Going quickly between the various poses can help to accelerate the weght loss. Beware though that those seriously overweight may find some of these poses extremely difficult and should start slowly with the easier poses and add others as they become more confident in the easier ones.

You can use standing poses to increase muscle strengthening such as the warrior. These will help to create higher endurance and increase your caloric usage.

Remember that a gradual approach is best with all Yoga practices. The long term effects on your weight loss regime will become evident and even more so the inner peace and general well feeling that Yoga will promote within you.

About the Author:

Michael Paetzold is the webmaster of http://innerselfimprovement.com where you will find information to improve the inner you. Weight loss, better self image, time management and much more are addressed there.

Yoga for Kids and Parents

2006-05-20T14:30:00.000-05:00

By Elizabeth Bonet

“Baby yoga! Baby yoga!” This is my daughter’s chant any time she reaches over to place her hands in front of her toes, in essence doing the toddler version of downward facing dog. I fantasized about doing yoga with my children before becoming pregnant, but I never pictured it like this.

I started doing yoga with Mia when I was pregnant with her. Chanting “om” everyday at the end of my yoga practice translated to a very easy way to calm her down when she was a newborn. During those early months when she would be awake at four in the morning and a walk was not an option, baby yoga seemed to be a nice, quiet activity. As she has grown older, my yoga practices have gotten shorter and shorter but definitely more fun as Mia joins in.

Their own way of doing things

I used to teach a mom’s yoga class in which they could bring their babies and toddlers. The kids had five minutes devoted just to them, but most of them joined in with their mothers at some time or another during the class. Then they would run off to play a little more. These children all did yoga naturally. They loved to go upside down, balance on one leg and crawl around on all fours like cats, mewing all the while.

A child’s face will shine as they reach up high to the sky and then go way down to touch their toes. They will be very serious pretending to be a snake and almost calm as they bend into child’s pose, called “turtle” in my class.

A healthy diet

Yoga poses help to boost the immune system and build healthy bodies. But yoga needs a healthy diet to really do its best work. A healthy diet inside allows children to be active on the outside, enjoying their bodies as they move their hands and feet and limbs into positions that feel good.

The connection between yoga and vegetarianism goes back for thousands of years. One of yoga’s eight limbs is ahimsa, or non-violence, including non-violence towards animals, fish and crustaceans. The eighth limb of yoga also includes respect for all life-giving energy, including that of plants.

For most serious students, yoga eventually translates into adopting vegetarian diets. Imagine if you can give your child a head start on both yoga and spiritual evolution by practicing ahimsa. Yoga for your child that includes vegetarianism will boost their immune systems, their spiritual development and their self-esteem, allowing them to be able to truly play with their own bodies while also feeling happiness move inside them.

Bring yoga home to play

If you would like to expose your child to more yoga, do your yoga at home. You don’t have to be perfect in a pose for your child to get the picture. The more playful you are, the more both of you will enjoy it. My daughter usually ends up crawling all over me, but we always end up laughing together. Remember to be safe in your poses, since sometimes having 25 pounds or more riding on your back in poses a real challenge.

Resources for home

If you’re looking for books and videos, there are a multitude on the market. A good video to try at home is the YogaKids™ video. The children move into different animal poses while fun music plays in the background. The books vary depending on the age of your child. A good one for babies and moms is Baby Yoga by Francoise Barbira Freedman.

A fun book for toddlers and older is Babar’s Yoga for Elephants by Laurent De Brunhoff. The toddlers in my class loved to see the different poses that Babar gets himself into, and they always tried to copy him. The book includes a poster with Babar in yoga poses.

A story book for a slightly older child is Yoga for Children by Swati Chanchani and Rajiv Chancahni. The book has beautiful illustrations that could be colored in with pencil and includes a manual for parents and teachers. The instructions are clear and easy for both older children and adults.

To see a beautiful spirit come out in a child, do yoga with them. Many times my daughter tells me, “Sit like this!” as she does a tiny butterfly pose. Then we inevitably end up with laughter, hugs and kisses as we see each other sitting alike. I hope yoga becomes as much a part of her life as it is mine, but for now we’ll just enjoy it together.

Elizabeth Bonet, Ph.D., is a freelance writer and prenatal yoga instructor who lives in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, with her daughter and husband. See more about her classes and who she is at www.yogafairy.com or www.elizabethbonet.com.

Stretching Exercises - Yoga

2006-05-19T14:25:00.000-05:00

By: Terry Lowery

Stretching and yoga aren’t just for people who can fold themselves up like pretzels, or movie stars who have nothing better to do with their days! It can be a beneficial practice to all who use it, and one doesn’t have to adopt the worldview of the swamis in order to reap benefits from it. The pace of our lives these days is crazy—some would argue destructive.

Yoga proponents say that learning the art form will not make you dull, but more magnetic, and show you the importance of slowing down. Yoga’s ‘inactivity’ can insert a moment to breathe in the midst of the hustle and bustle of life, can clear your mind, and re-energize you with just a few simple techniques.

The first lesson in any Yogic theory is how to relax. This doesn’t mean you flop on the sofa and become a couch potato; instead it is defined as ‘a conscious transfer of energy from one department of nature to another….’ Even if you do this for 5 minutes at a time over a beverage, you’re on your way to relaxing. It will increase your efficiency—try it and see!

Stretching involved in yoga can be very simple: lie on the floor without pillows. Remove your shoes and wear whatever is loose fitting and comfortable to you. Stretch your arms over your head while stretching your legs and feet. Close your eyes and let your head roll to one side.

Now release each part of your body and consciously permit each limb, each ‘section’ of your body, to meld in to the floor. Permit yourself to feel as if you are sinking and think of a peaceful scene. This will likely feel very odd to you the first time you do it, but the relaxation that you bring each part of your body will be refreshing!

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Now we’ll work on stretching! Lie on the floor as you did for your full-body relaxation, only this time, interweave your fingers above your head. If you turn your palms upward, you’ll feel a bigger stretch along your ribs and spine. Stretch your arms as far above your head as possible, pointing your toes and pushing them towards the floor so you can feel every muscle between your head and feet.

Once you have stretched every part of your body, release! Now go back in to your full-body relaxation mode, remembering to start at the head and relax your way down to your toes.

Now work on the ‘complete breath’ that yoga teaches. Lying flat on the floor without pillows, place your hands gently on your diaphragm. Slowly exhale as much as you can. Very slowly begin to inhale through the mouth, evenly and without sudden stops. You will feel your diaphragm expand at this point—keep going. Now exhale through your mouth, using a slight force, expelling as much air as possible.

You have just completed your ‘complete breath’ in yogic teaching! If you build up the number of complete breaths per day, you’ll notice less tension, better rest, and a more relaxed you. Release the stress of your day and become who you were designed to be!

This article courtesy of http://www.treadmills-guide.net

Gain Ultimate Health and Bliss Through Yoga Relaxation

2006-05-18T14:19:00.000-05:00

Until recently, I was completely unaware of the connection between yoga benefits and yoga relaxation. Like many women, I also sought comfort in many activities such as socializing,
hot baths, watching movies, or reading a good book to ease the daily stresses.

It was only when I started yoga that I became aware of the immense yoga benefits that can be gained from a state of deep relaxation. Only a few yoga relaxation sessions were needed for me to reach a sublime state of harmony.

Women have totally different reasons for practicing yoga. Some women are interested in the health benefits they obtain after performing yoga exercises routinely, while others practice yoga to accomplish the desired state of harmony between the inner and outer self, but a large number of women carry out yoga sessions simply for relaxation.

At this conjuncture, a very critical question crops up?

Why can't leisure activities contribute to relaxation??

I figure, that leisure activities are merely a temporary solution providing an escape from stressful conditions and emotions and are not empowering you with the mindset or emotional strength you need to solve the problems that may occur. As soon as you are confronted with those same or similar challenges, you neither understand how to react to them nor do you know how to deal with them effectively.

Accomplished yoga practitioners say that yoga relaxation develops a woman's ability to deal with stress more effectively and at the same time makes her more energized, focused and relaxed. As a consequence, a woman is able to regain her mental composure quickly during stressful conditions thereby giving her the ability to handle any situation that may come up with ease and confidence.

This is one of the greatest yoga benefits associated with yoga relaxation.

Today's women live under overt and subtle pressures to look good, function well and impress others. She has to deal with competition at work and difficulties in personal relationships. All these lifestyle factors adversely affect her physical and mental well being.

Under such circumstances, the big question is, How can a woman preserve her physical and mental health? You don't have to scratch your head to find an answer because yoga, the legacy of our forefathers is still powerful enough to help today's woman remain healthy.

Ultimate Yoga Benefits

If you still have doubts about the effectiveness of this ancient system of exercise, then consider the varied benefits found by thoroughly exploring and investigating yoga.

1. Yoga relaxation improves the overall physical and mental health of a woman through the relaxing effect on her body and the soothing effect on her mind. This is one of the most basic yoga benefits related to relaxation.

2. It relieves and delays the onset of fatigue.

3. Yoga relaxations works to expand the consciousness, which brings about greater freedom from negative conditioning and repressed memories.

4. It helps a woman to minimize and alleviate illusions, confusions, and inessential burdens, and develop a life that is more focused.

5. Life is complex and challenging. Yoga relaxation helps us to deal with the modern stresses of competition, complexity and change.

There are many more yoga benefits that can be associated with yoga relaxation. In fact, each yoga practitioner has an incredible yoga health benefit experience to share.

Five Important Components

To achieve ultimate yoga benefits and to accelerate the process of arriving at the intense level of relaxation you desire, yoga practitioners advocate commitment to five important components
of yoga:

1. Diet - It is an important factor because the things we eat effect not only the structure of our body, but also our brain.

2. Breathing techniques - Deep and prolonged breath helps your brain to remain oxygenated, which contributes to analyzing things in a clearer way.

3. Postures - They cultivate and maintain mental and physical balance, strength and health. They are most beneficial when practiced on a normal or daily basis and at the same time.

4. Meditation practice - During relaxation it is important to mediate on the true values of the world.

5. Relaxation practice - Yoga postures are often cumbersome and demand a lot of attention therefore yoga relaxation is a necessary and mandatory stage of every yoga routine.

Yoga is a connection between spiritual and real world, and yoga relaxation is considered to be a stage, which safely brings you back to the current reality you live in.

To yield rich yoga benefits out of yoga relaxation, a woman should have the right attitude and focus. These are considered to be the key elements. Entering the profound stage of relaxation
and synchronization between your inner and your outer self cannot happen unless you physically and mentally desire it.

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2006-05-17T14:09:00.000-05:00

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What is Yoga?

2006-05-16T14:02:00.000-05:00

Yoga is extensively known as a form of exercise that stretches and strengthens the body through various poses known as ASANAS. For other people yoga is the realization of inner self satisfaction. For other it is a religion that the believe and must follow.

All of this statement makes it hard to really make a full realization of what yoga is.

So what is yoga?

Yoga goes far beyond just mere exercises full of awkward routines. Yoga is the union of mind, spirit and body. Yoga comes from the Hindu philosophy used to attain spiritual insight and harmony.

What is yoga? Yoga generally refers to the common use of a system of exercises that is practiced as part of this discipline.

The word is derived from the Sanskrit “yeung”, which means to join. A yoke as used on oxen is closely related, but also the same root gives us "join", "junction", "junta", "adjust", "joust", and "juxapose" to name a few.

There are many institutions of yoga all of which have their own unique practices and beliefs. But in this article we have listed down the five most common yoga practices.

However, schools and paths have been established with many different variations that aren't listed here.

HATHA: this is the most popular variety of yoga and one that has been commonly taught for years. So what is yoga for them? For them it is perfecting the mind by way of perfecting the body.

With this technique many asanas or postures, breathing techniques and meditations are used.

ASHTANGA: this yoga is another popular type but is much faster than other types of yoga.
For them yoga can be considered as a type of aerobic yoga for they instill quick and smooth transitions between poses.

KUNDALINI: This practice is focused on awakening and focusing what is known as kundalini energy. Kundalini energy is most easily compared to life energy that lies dormant in our bodies. It is commonly represented by a coiled snake.

MANTRA: this type of yoga is focused on calming the mind and body through the usage of words and sounds. The well known 'om' chant is commonly heard in this school.

TANTRA: This type of yoga is well known by way of its focus on sexual spirituality. They also focus on kundalini energy, although their intent for awakening it is much different from the Kundalini practice.

Yoga is a very diverse practice, no matter which practice you choose. People young and old can gain many benefits from regular yoga practices, and asanas can be adjusted to fit physical limitations and other complications.

If you want a break from treadmills, weight rooms, or the pool, take a look at yoga. Not only are you striving towards physical well being, you are striving towards spiritual well being as well.

Traditionally, yoga consists of eight fundamental paths: Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Purna Yoga, Tantra Yoga, Maha Yoga and Ashtanga or Raja Yoga. In the western world, the term yoga often refers to Hatha yoga and its postures, movements, and breathing techniques.

The ultimate goal of yoga is the attainment of liberation from worldly suffering and the cycle of birth and death. Yoga entails mastery over the body, mind, and emotional self, and transcendence of desire. It is said to lead gradually to knowledge of the true nature of reality.

Common Types of Yoga

2006-05-15T13:34:00.000-05:00

There are so many different types of yoga today, with this a problematic situation for beginners, it is best to choose a form of yoga that is appropriate for each individual’s level of fitness, physical and spiritual goals and health condition.

Some of the most common types of yoga are listed below and briefly explained to guide you in choosing the best type of yoga that you can start with.

Iyengar Yoga: these types of yoga are solely focused on the alignment and precise
movements. Yoga props such as blocks and straps are usually used as part of this type of yoga for those beginners who are not as flexible as the experts as to compensate for injuries.

These Yoga props help assist all sorts of people to be able to do the poses comfortably.

Because of its attention to details and the flexible modification of poses, these types of yoga is often a good form of exercise for people with back pain or neck pain, as they are likely to benefit from the random alteration to the poses.

Practicing these types of yoga will give you a good knowledge on the classics in yoga poses so that whatever other style you practice, you will have the basic fundamentals on how to do each position.

In Iyengar yoga the teacher focuses more on alignment and inner awareness. This awareness starts with the body and expands to other parts of the self as one continues with the regularity of practice.

Ashtanga Yoga: these types of yoga are commonly called “power yoga” because it is
focused on a powerful flowing movement.

Such movements include pushups and lunges, which deals with strength and stamina. These types of yoga are best for people who have successfully overcome back injuries and are looking for more challenging practice.

People who are already athletic such as runners, gymnasts and cyclists who want to
add more balance and concentration to their routines are also utilizing these types of yoga.

Bikram Yoga: these types of yoga are also known as the “hot yoga” for this is done in a very warm room. These types of yoga are excellent tools for increasing flexibility because the heat helps tissue to stretch.

But keep in mind that these types of yoga are not applicable to those that have developed cardio vascular diseases due to the strain placed on the body when vigorously exercising in the heat.

Viniyoga: these types of yoga links breathe and movement in flowing exercises that are adapted to each individual. These are often a good form of yoga for those with back problems or neck injuries because it can be easily adapted by anyone.

Raja Yoga: these types of yoga aims for liberation through meditation. These types of yoga are only for those people who are capable of intense concentration.

Bhakti yoga: or commonly known as devotional yoga. These types of yoga focus on self surrender in the face of the divine.

Mantra yoga: much more known as the "yoga of potent sound,”. This type of yoga aims at liberation through the verbal or mental repetition of empowered sounds, such as "om," "hum," or "ram."

There are so many yoga practices to choose from. It is also a good idea that before going into a class, discuss with the teacher first regarding his or her philosophy and beliefs in order to find the most appropriate and personally appealing form of yoga for you.

Tantric Yoga Highlights the Exaltation of the Physical Being

2006-05-14T12:34:00.000-05:00

Tantric Yoga highlights the exaltation of the physical being more than anything else.

Tantra is known to be the concept that arises out of this kind of commitment to oneself, which is the basis of Tantra. And the supporters of this side of belief are called tantrics. These people not only worship the physical state but also got to any degree to please the body to achieve occult powers.

As of this time, it is not widely practiced and used in India. And it survived only in some parts of India in the middle of the jungles and hills of the Himalayas.

However, there are many clashes about its origin and source. Some have researched and discovered that the Pre-Aryans are the originators and others transcribe it to the norms of the early people. It is known to have risen at the same time Buddhism was flourishing. And because of this, some Buddhists had incorporated and adopted some of the Tantric signs and symbols.

And later on, it has grown to form a faction or guild. Like the Vedas, Tantras are composed of collections of poems and verses that speak of the elaborate methods on the righteous and proper of worship and adoration.

Often, some people perceive them as obscure and mystical in sense that is usually addressed to the persons who perform or do tantric acts. These persons are usually, sadhakas. These Sadhakas live a very simple life. And the practice of Yoga is like a prayer for them. He usually meditates in the lone and secluded places in the countryside far, far away from the madding society. His robes and his begging bowl distinguish him. He also sells medicine, shells, charms and herbal pieces.

This may be his good side but the other half lingers in vicious outrages and he inflicts austerities upon himself. The various positions of love-making and sex itself outline a significant principle of tantrism.

According to some, there is a way of acquiring sidhi. This is through practicing Kundalini or serpent’s power. It says that in order to awaken the serpent, one must practice and perform a certain type of Yoga or mediation. Through this, the serpent is said to arise gradually. With constant practice, the serpent uncoils and awakens which in return, explodes a vast from of energy. As the process continues, the skin is becoming hot and sweating occurs until a stinging sensation is achieved or experienced. Once this is attained, it is said to be so prevailing that it may destroy the person if not controlled.

Soon, it rises and when it has come to its limit or peak, one feels absolute pleasure. And once this is attained, he therefore becomes a sage or Sadhu. Tantrism also involves the dissipated way of acquiring supernatural powers.

It is said that in order to gain deliverance, one must do everything that he wants to do even though it is immoral or prohibited.

It is also said that some tantric yoga exercises aids and improves the general and sexual health. With healthy reproductive organs, one can have improved well being and it is favorable for sexual activities. It is like the respiratory system, which needs air to function.

There are various exercises, both physical and spiritual which helps in integrating the body, mind and spirit into one. These different exercises are good to start each day with and favorable before going to bed.

Through this, the physiological functions of the body are stimulated and therefore revitalizes the whole well being of a person.

Tantra Yoga

2006-05-13T12:29:00.000-05:00

Yoga is very popular nowadays. With its various benefits, many are influenced to engage in this form of exercise and meditation. There are so many kinds of Yoga that are known and practiced by many as of today. One if these are Tantra Yoga.

Tantra yoga is more concentrated on the spiritual healing and most of all the integration of the body, mind, and spirit. In India, it is an ancient tradition that sexuality is an important and significant phase to be able to achieve a certain degree of enlightenment.

In Western religious norms, sexual pleasures and desires are not inclined or associated with spirituality. With these differences in traditions, there exists a fine line between their feelings and attitude towards sexuality along with spirituality.

However, in Eastern philosophy, they celebrate and rejoice on the splendor and glory of creation. And later on, they have developed a study or science for understanding how to get most of this therapeutic and wonderful experience. Energy is known and considered to be the source of life in Tantra.

Furthermore, they consider the sexual energy and urge as great and sacred energy. There exists a few of the many exercises that help in the performance on the sexual aspect as well as some dietary adjustments. Some of these physical exercises include contractions, breathing and holding certain positions.

There are so many benefits that can be obtained by performing these various physical exercises. Some of these include improved prostate functioning and enhanced and improved sexual performance. Another benefit is improved sexual stamina when engaging in sexual intercourse.

There are also different kinds of exercises. Aside from the physical exercises, there are psycho-spiritual exercises. These exercises are ways to develop mediation on unconditional love and desire. As a result, this can make sexual activities less anxious and awkward, aside from that, the pressure to perform and move is minimized.

It is said that the most fascinating sexual experience is giving in completely to your partner or lover what he or she really wants. Expectations may be high so one must perform and must do something about it.

Through mediation and proper exercises, one can think of the various ways which he can satisfy his lover. When one is focused and concentrated on giving what your lover really wants is an experience which can strengthen your relationship with each other, moreover, you will receive the satisfaction you had always wanted. There are few exercises which can help you a lot I focusing on your sexual performance.

By repeating some mantras and chants together with breathing exercises and proper meditation, one can achieve these benefits.

There are also numerous ways to take your foreplay to the highest level. With healing massages and gentle stroking, one can receive a rewarding experience that can stimulate both physical and spiritual and healing in different ways.

Reiki or energy channeling healing is practiced before engaging in a sexual activity. This is known to heighten the sexual pleasure in an intercourse. It is an Eastern healing art where-by one partner channels his energy to the other.

Through tactile stimulation, healing is achieved and both the physical and spiritual aspect is enhanced. In this manner, both of you can achieve a deeper state of relaxation and meditation which is very helpful to couples and partnerships.

Powering Up with Ashtanga Yoga

2006-05-12T12:26:00.000-05:00

We may not be familiar with power yoga as it is not fully introduced to us. Power yoga is known as the western version of Ashtanga Yoga which brought by the Indians.

Beryl Bender Birch was the one who gave the term Power Yoga. He was a teacher of Ashtanga Yoga and at the same time an author of Power Yoga.

Yoga was inspired and was brought to the west by the renowned Sanskrit Scholar Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. The people of the west were inspired with his Ashtanga Yoga and also his philosophies.

Power Yoga is described to be the the practice of Yoga Poses which is done continuously in a series of exercises without stopping. The practice is accompanied by the Vinsaya which is known as riding the breath. This enables you to make certain movements from one pose to another.

The power yoga is characterized by vigorous exercises which challenges your physical and mental ability and concentration. This enables you to reach your inner power and connect with it.

The difference of power yoga is that the poses are done faster in a pace. This practice is essential and helpful in increasing your physical endurance.

Power yoga enables you to maintain and keep up a good focus at a longer time without breaking or distracting your concentration. if you need to fully concentrate with something, power yoga might just be the right type for you.

Power yoga has some similarities with the modified versions of Ashtanga Yoga. The certain practices of Iyengar yoga and Bikram also influenced power yoga.

Just like Bikram Yoga, notice that Power Yoga also applies the execution of the common basic yoga poses which is a good practice because even the beginners can do it.

Power yoga also adapted some practices of the Iyengar Yoga which gives emphasis on the form and alignment during the practice. It also includes practice in holding a pose longer without breaking which aims to achieve maximum benefits.

Although Power Yoga has been influenced by a lot of yoga types, still it aims on the steps of Classical Yoga. It aims to unite the body, the spirit and the mind uniquely. The main objective of yoga is for you to be able to connect to your inner power and to reach every level through the poses and practices.

With the help of power Yoga, you can dig deep to your physical, mental and spiritual power.

Power yoga is considered a good training for athletes. Not only does it train them to concentrate deeply but it also aids them in the prevention of injuries and rehabilitation that may come.

If you want to do Power Yoga, you should know first if your health condition can withstand the practice. You should know that Power Yoga is dine in a heated room which is perfectly designed to increase the strength and flexibility, increase your concentration, release tension, stamina and tone in your body which is achieved and released through sweat.

Power yoga can be taught by teachers but there might be some differences depending upon who is teaching it. The people who are healthy and fit can do and practice power yoga. If you enjoy doing exercises and if you want less chanting, power yoga is the best style for you.

Kundalini Yoga - The Most Powerful Yoga

2006-05-11T12:21:00.000-05:00

The most powerful yoga is known as the Kundalini Yoga. It is so powerful that it was called the mother of all the Styles of Yoga. This type of yoga awakens the base of our spine which is known as the Muladhara Chakra.

The word Kundalini was derived from kunda which means “pot”. Kundalini Sadhna is described to be the coiled energy that looks like a serpent which has three and a half coils which are resting at the bottom of the spine. The three coils in Kundalini Yoga are known as the three Gunas which are the Sattva, Rajas, Tamas. The VIkritis represent the half coil.

In anatomy, the kundalini is found in the perineum region of our body. For the males, it is found between the testicles and the rectum. For the female, it is found between the clitoris and the vagina.

Kundalini Yoga is also known as the symbol of equality and power for both genders. The masculine power is known to be Siva and Sakti for the females. They become the elemental source of power and energy when they are united. The union of Siva and Sakti occurs in the brain which gives us the sense of feeling and affection, energy, love. This means Kundalini Yoga is good to eliminate the feeling of sorrow, depression, anger and jealousy.

Kundalini Yoga gives reward to Yogis who maintain unity awareness and spiritual transformation. The Kundalini produces a hissing sound when it is awakened. It sounds just like a beaten serpent as it goes from the Muladhara Chakra to the Brahma Nadi and to the Sahasrara Chakra.

In the year 1969, Yogi Bhajan introduced Kundalini Yoga. It includes the practices of the common Mantra, meditation, chanting, breathing and the classic poses. This type of yoga actually focuses more on chanting and breathing. It does not really concentrate in the Kundalini Yoga Poses alone.

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If you are curious about Kundalini Yoga, it is good to know the path it takes. One thing you need to understand is the Nervous System and the Spinal Cord. These two are the main focus of Kundalini Yoga. It targets your Spinal Cord and the Nervous System.

The Nervous System as we all know is the main control or the center of our body. The Nervous System is responsible for the imaginations, thoughts, intelligence and memory that we have. The Nervous System composes of the brain, the nerves and most especially the Spinal Cord which gives us posture and stand. The Spinal Cord is made up of delicate nerves and tissues that is why we need to take care of it. Kundalini Yoga will be the most appropriate practice for this.

The infamous Kundalini awakening is not that easy to learn. It is also something that we can find or learn in books. If there was, you might be confused or perplexed in learning the process. If you want to master Kundalini awakening, it should be based on experience. After series of trials and sessions, you will find out that Kundalini awakening took place and it was all because you were just too eager and concentrated to learn it.

Now what you have to do is grab that amazing concentration and start working on your Nervous System and Spinal Cord. If you want to stay healthy and maintain a good posture, Kundalini Yoga is just waiting for you to practice it.

Kriya Yoga - The Process of Mental Purification

2006-05-10T12:11:00.000-05:00

Kriya Yoga is a process of mental purification that teaches meditation through techniques.

The fundamental belief of Kriya Yoga is that all of us are miniature version of the whole cosmos, a microcosm or an evolution of a new world within the microcosmic world.

The followers of Kriya yoga also believes that the most holy supreme creator is a part of us hiding beneath our body, and activating every action through the breath.

The name Kriya is meant as any work “kri” is being done by the power of the indwelling soul “ya”.

The different cosmic forces controlling, air, fire, water and earth also controls the different activities that we do, namely, religious activities, relationship with everyone and everything, food, pregnancy, and everything performed by the human body.

Yoga on the other hand is the conjoining of these correspondences between microcosms and macrocosms. It is the full acceptance and belief behind the union and interaction of the individual self and the supreme self.

The study and science of Kriya yoga has a divine origin and was not created by human means and intellect.

The modernization for this ancient yoga meditation method has begun in the 1860’s with Babaji and has been handed down to the present Kriya yoga lineage of masters directly through the Master to disciple method of teaching.

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The disciplined path of Kriya Yoga consists of many different kinds of teaching with different angles to it. One looks at it as a process of beginning with self introspection through breathing controls.

It is also believed in Kriya yoga that that by enlightening the three qualities of light, vibration and sound simultaneously with proper concentration, posture and breathing through application of a series of techniques, a Kriya yoga disciple is able to penetrate the deepest levels of the unconscious mind.

Through this they can communicate with their inner gods and obtain a fulfilling calmness within them.

The process of purification is attained through diligent practice. The first thing to do is have the mind calmed and freed from any internal chatter by developing the practice of feeble breathing.

Then secondly the very process of observation of pulse rhythm and vibrations in the body enables the seeker to extract the bondage of subtle desires

A deeper understanding of the triple divine qualities leads to a chiseled concentration or a focused mind, therefore preparing the seeker to explore thoughtlessness and inner truth.

All people are mired in the delusion and illusion due to the duality of creation. We are seeking liberation from the phenomenal suffering due to the miseries from ignorance, desire and faulty actions. One should be able to realize that the supreme creator is hiding within and as a self of all beings.

Kriya Yoga provides us with the easiest ways to unfold this lurking truth and unravel the deepest mysteries of godhood from within us.

Kriya yoga teaches breath control and calmness and it aims for well self realization within one lifetime.

Kriya yoga is a non-sectarian group and teaches that work is worship and whatever you do is from and for the Supreme Being and creator. It teaches about the different beliefs of the origin, destiny and evolution of souls.

A Kriya Yoga disciple believes in direct and immediate spiritual experience and is only taught through direct contact with the teacher.

What is Hot Yoga?

2006-05-09T11:52:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of yoga types and one of them is the famous "hot yoga". The hot yoga is characterized by a series of yoga poses which is done in a heated room. The room where you perform the exercise is preserved at a temperature of 95-100 degrees. This kind of exercise gives off a lot of perspiration during a session because you are stuck in a heated room.

Hot yoga is advantageous because it cleanses your body and gets rid of the toxins inside your body. Since is makes your body warm, the more flexible it gets.

When doing hot yoga, you should have some accessories like your yoga mat and towel. Since you will be sweating severely, you should have something to wipe up your sweat every other time.

Some people who practice hot yoga do not wear very thick clothes because it causes them to sweat more.

If you are going to practice hot yoga, you should be ready with your clothing. The clothes you should wear should be appropriate. You can wear shorts during the session.

Yoga for Beginners Kits

Wearing of shorts allows your skin to breathe and give off heat. Students are the ones who usually wear shorts. They tend to wear small clothes because they are still vigorous and they sweat too much. If you are taking hot yoga sessions, make sure that you drink a lot of water. If you are in the class, you can also bring along your own bottle of water so that you can drink anytime you want. It is important to bring along a bottle of water so that you will not get dehydrated and so that the skin will produce more sweat. Before having a hot yoga session, you should take note that it is not advisable to eat two hours before the class starts. This is because your body is opt for a heavy exercise.

Bikram’s method is such a good yoga style. People who want to be slim can practice this type of yoga because their fats and cholesterol will be burned through sweat.

Although it burns your fats, you should not be burning all of it because you still need some. Yoga started about 2500 years ago which was founded by Patanjali. After it’s discovery, it was then practiced and spread around the world. Picture yourself doing Yoga when you are suffering from illness like Fever where your body temperature is at 105 deg. Fahrenheit! I bet you couldn’t stand this kind of heat. If ever you will, you have over fatigued yourself.

At the compassion of the disagreement is Choudhury’s wish to put off anybody teaching yoga in a heated room from calling their class “Bikram Yoga.” He would like to put to one side this title only for those teachers who are qualified by his Yoga College of India and who stick to his arranged process precisely. This has been handled upon because there are a lot of people who imitate his teachings.

Now that you have learned the difference of hot yoga among all other styles, think again if it satisfies your desired to release your sweat and excess toxins. Remember that in doing hot yoga, all your energy is taken away. If your body has not a single energy to waste, then hot yoga is not the perfect yoga style for you.

The History of Yoga

2006-05-08T11:48:00.000-05:00

The History of Yoga has a lot to do with the present times. The earliest Yoga started some 5000 years ago since human civilization has begun. The scholars believed that Yoga was originated out of Stone Age Shamanism.

This is because there were some cultural similarities between Mehrgarh which was a Neolithic settlement and the Modern Hinduism. The shamanistic culture of Mergarh was in fact influenced by Hindu ideals, symbols and rituals of the present. The ancient shamanism and early Yoga had so much similarity for the reason both wanted to go beyond the human condition.

Shamanism’s primary goal was to heal the members who were in their community and at the same time act as the religious mediators.

Archaic Yoga also had the same objectives as they were community oriented and they aimed to determine the enormous order through senses and inner vision which then can be applied to our daily lives.

As time went on, Yoga has progressed and has regarded the inmost experience. Yogis then have focused on how to improve the individual enlightenment, recovery and salvation.

Yoga’s evidences were first tracked in the archeological evidence which was found in stone seals exhumed from the Indus valley. Yoga postures were traced and seen fro the figures which were illustrated in the stone seals. the artifacts were placed on History books circa 3000 B.C., which was linked to the great Indus-Sarasvati Civilization which was known to be the largest civilization that exist in the ancient world. The Indus-Sarasvati, being a maritime society, exported goods all over Africa and the Middle East. They build up sewage systems and put up geometrical brick roads and constructed multistory buildings.

The Vedas are known as the oldest scripture in the world which were the ancient texts, was brought by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization. It was a compilation of hymns that commends a high power which included the oldest recorded teachings in Yoga. They have considered this the divine revelation. The intelligence of the Vedas was known as the Pre-classical Yoga or the Vedic. This was described by the ritualistic ceremonies that the Yoga practitioners have been required in order to go beyond the limitations of the mind.

The history of yoga would not have been completed in the classical stage of yoga. After the time and turn of the millennium, yoga and its spread in different forms have come up with the need for standardization. This is important so that the people will be aware with it and it can be applied by them. Due to this, during the second century, C.E., Patanjali has composed and collected seminal text which was the Yoga-Sutra which had defined the Classical Yoga.

At the age of Postclassical Yoga in the enormous history of Yoga, it gave rise to some productive literature which has included the Tantra and the Hatha which is famously known nowadays. These were taught in schools for Yoga and practiced by many. Therefore, post classical Yoga is described to the adaptation of our present state. It is the time when yoga has evolved greatly and introduced to people. It has then been applied in the United States in the 1800’s.

Now in the recent decades, yoga has greatly and swiftly evolved. Swami Sivananda was one of the prominent gurus ever to master yoga. He has served as a doctor and he has generously opened up schools in Europe and America.

Now as we move on with the yoga practices that we have today, it is helpful and easier to understand if we looked back on the history of yoga.

Hatha Yoga

2006-05-07T11:47:00.000-05:00

Hatha yoga is known as the 5000 year old system which was used to increase the healthy body, mind and spirit. People who do Hatha Yoga combine the stretching exercises of asanas into their practice. It includes the mental concentration and breathing techniques.

The Lotus position from Asanas is being used in practicing Hatha Yoga.

The goal of applying Hatha Yoga is just the same as using other kinds of Yoga. It aims to blend the human spirit with the peaceful spirit of the Universe. With this practice, the person doing the Yoga exercise increases their spiritual, mental, physical and emotional health and aspect.

Doing Hatha Yoga gives you peace and keeps your environment and the world as one. In doing yoga, including all types of yoga, concentration is the root or main ingredient for a successful yoga

All other types of Yoga have some similarities in one way or the other. The main focus of Hatha Yoga is to prepare the body to give in so that the spirit will be able to absorb and accomplish its mission. The spirit is responsible in lifting and enlightening. When the spirit is enlightened, the mind is relaxed and it throws away all stress and pain. The body does too.

Too many people get confused because they do not understand that if your body is not healthy and is unfit; your spirit cannot successfully accomplish the task. So the goal of Hatha Yoga is perfect to apply if your spirit is weak.

Hatha Yoga will help encourage your body to move and advance positively to a level in which the spirit will be able to work properly. Your spirit and body needs to respond positively so that the mind will be able to keep up with a good concentration.

When people hear of the word Yoga, Hatha Yoga will come to their minds first. Hatha Yoga is popular and it is the popular branch of Yoga. In fact, the other style of yoga such as the Kundalini, Ashtanga, Bikram and Power Yoga has originated from Hatha Yoga.

Hatha Yoga is known as the vehicle for the soul. It is responsible for driving the body and the spirit into the universe. Just imagine soaring to the universe and feel no gravity at all. That is just so relaxing and tempting.

Concentration is something that is hard to maintain and recover. If you find yourself easily distracted by outside forces, Hatha Yoga might work to fight it.

The best thing about practicing Hatha Yoga is that it helps you find out for your self that there is a divine light that shines in you. Not only does it enlighten you but it can help you become stronger, relaxed and flexible.

The exercise involved in doing Hatha Yoga allows the spiritual energy to flow through the open energy channels. This will be possible if the mind, body and spirit is working good and has harmony. Of course maintaining a healthy body is the most important of all. If your body is weak, your mind and spirit is affected too

When you practice Hatha Yoga, you can easily cope up with stress and relieve some pain and tension. Sometimes, work leaves you wasted and exhausted so you need to relax once in a while. Hatha Yoga is the best remedy to release that pain and tension.

Is Free Online Yoga Safe?

2006-05-06T10:37:00.000-05:00

Yoga nowadays is very much in demand, especially since you can find it everywhere online for free. Yoga practice and exercise is not only learned in schools but can now also be practised through the use of books, dvd's and even from various sources online.

There are a lot of yoga schools all over the world. Before, yoga was only applied and practice in India but now, it has evolved immensly. Just about everyone has heard of yoga but most don't really understand it's full meaning. Yoga for many people is an exercise and a means to concentrate with the mind and soul.

Free online yoga can be utilized by anyone. All you need is your own computer and internet connection to search out the many sources that provide valuable information and lessons on yoga. If you want to learn from the basics, the net has the resources on how to learn it the easy way.

Free online yoga saves you from going to a yoga class. It saves your time, money and effort. Plus, you can freely do it in the privacy of your own home.

So why would people trudge out to schools taking their mats and backpacks when they can find all they need to practice online?

First off, not everybody has their own personal computer. While others prefer the companionship yoga classes offer. So for many, actual yoga classes are more beneficial.

Some sites that offer free online yoga will ask you to register. You will need to provide some personal information like your state address, name, age and gender. This information may be needed to help them provide you with a more personal plan for implementing your yoga routine. The age is something they need to consider because not all practices are suitable for all ages.

Make sure the free online yoga sites you choose to follow are legitmate and are providing the correct information as some yoga practices can lead to disaster and disorders. Look for those from actual intructors or schools, or those providing information from reliable sources.

Although free online yoga can be found easily simply by searching, you should be sure to check out the yoga sources before beginning any practice to ensure your own experience is both satisfying and safe.

Dahn Yoga for Body and Mind

2006-05-05T10:29:00.000-05:00

Yoga is widespread and is continuously being developed today. Millions of people around the world are into this activity. Its influence is vast and is constantly increasing. Of the so many forms of Yoga, hatha yoga is by far the most common form.

It involves both the breathing control mechanism and the physical exercise and postures combined. This exercise allows optimized blood circulation and improves one’s flexibility, stamina, strength and vitality.

Moreover, it is also a form of peaceful mediation that contributes to self-awareness and gives an extra energy that makes you have a warm perspective of life. Various centers are located and established on cities to promote awareness.

However, one may not need a tutor or a teacher in order to learn or perform Yoga. One can simply look for a book or find an appropriate DVD or video to suit your need. Aside from hatha Yoga, there exists another kind of Yoga. it is known as Dhan Yoga.

It is also referred to as Dahn Hak ot Dahnak. It started as an early form of Korean instruction program that aims to teach the people on how to expand and widen both the body and mind. For a certain period of time, it has been discovered that it had vanished but was later on rediscovered and its first center was established on Korea.

It was in 1991 that Dahn Yoga was brought into the United States. There are also existing centers there that have been established as time went by. Dahn Yoga does not only focus on the fitness aspects of Yoga.

It also educates the person on the principles and concepts on how the energy acts or moves in the body. It also teaches that ageing and weakening of the body is caused by stress. And removing stress will definitely improve one’s health and prolong his life. They believe that one should know how to improve and develop that energy flow inside the body.

Through this, health is efficiently monitored and safeguarded. With Dahn Yoga, one must know how to communicate and correspond to his physical body.

They also believe that our body has its natural healing power. And this natural healing ability can only be achieved when one has stimulated that certain energy that connects the body to the conscious mind.

Through deep stretching, breathing methods and meditation, Dhan Yoga promotes physical, mental, and spiritual healing and to connect us into our spiritual selves. It promotes body relaxation and the discovery of inner consciousness.

It gives a life away and free from stress and anxiety and a life which has self-control and enhanced concentration.

Through meditation and breath work, energy is accumulated in the body. As a result, the functioning of the internal organs and systems in the body is enhanced.

Moreover, the toxins and possible threats of disorder is hindered in a way. Then the feeling of better physique and well-being is achieved. This, in turn, boosts self-confidence and positive thinking. A new self is realized and released from addictive behaviors.

By the integration of the body and mind, latent abilities are realized and goals are set. In addition, Dahn Yoga practitioners sometimes volunteer teaching and training without payment. Dahn Yoga is altogether a group that is willing to promote healthy well-being, a happy mind, and a peaceful community.

Lacking Energy? - Try Core Power Yoga

2006-05-04T10:22:00.000-05:00

Core power yoga is an energetic yoga exercise that physically and mentally challenges to help connect to inner power without stopping and accompanied by a heated, climate controlled Vinyasa. It heals, detoxifies and stimulates the body and mind through balance and intention.

Power yoga has created a dynamic, challenging program that combines strength, sweat and spirituality. It recognizes power in different levels; first is the physical power which develops the body’s strength and improve health; second is the mental power or the will to concentrate on the practice; and last the spiritual power which is the power behind the physical and mental power.

Core power yoga is the Western version of the Indian Ashtanga Yoga. The term was was given by Beryl Bender Birch, an Ashtanga Yoga teacher. It has been brought to the west by followers of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, a renowned Sanskrit scholar who inspired Western Yogis with his Ashtanga Yoga Style and philosophies.

There are three programs in power yoga. “Core Power” is designed to strengthen abdominals and back and includes both abs-focused Vinyasa power yoga poses and variations of muscle-toning moves. “Unlocking Athletic Power” will develop flexible strength with an emphasis on abs, back, hips and pelvis. “Soul of Strength” on the other hand is a fast-moving power yoga program with a distinct “mid-body” emphasis and some very challenging moves.

Yoga sessions are done in a heated room and composed of different cardiovascular exercises intended to develop strength and flexibility, increase stamina, improves the ability to focus, release tensions and remove toxins through sweating.

Core power yoga practice also requires the execution of yoga poses. Poses are done in a fast pace, some poses are even held longer than the required five breaths. This practice can increase physical endurance and ability to focus on any task for a long time without breaking the concentration.

What is the difference between core power yoga and other exercises?

Core power yoga is a vinyasa style that has a unique program offering and focuses on core strength, balance and flow to build a solid practice based on strength and spirit. It offers diverse classes like Hot Yoga, Yoga Sculpt, Bootcamps, Teacher Trainings and Mat Pilates. Moreover, it provides better instructors that are personally involved in students’ progress, strong and forceful leaders who pays more attention to the students needs. Also the teachers of this exercise work with the students to personalize their programs and creating a sense of belonging and community. And lastly, it provides quality facilities equipped with a unique top tier amenities and a balance aura.

This exercise also offers great health benefits; this lengthens and stretches the muscles and at the same time it builds stamina, strength and lean muscle and mass. It also increases body heat that kills some bacteria and creates a finely tuned state of consciousness of the workings of the body. The focus of core power yoga is on the coordination of the breath movement, connecting the body, mind and spirit to the warmest level.

Core power yoga is best to those who want to improve their performance in their chosen sports like cycling, football, swimming, skiing, surfing, running/athlete, martial arts and other team sports. Some training grounds in sports practice this exercise in transition for aerobics.

Core power yoga can reshape your body and mind!

Getting Closer to God Through Christian Yoga

2006-05-03T10:22:00.000-05:00

Christian yoga is a spiritual practice of Christians most common in Eastern and Western Countries. It is a discipline that one practices to be much closer to God. Taking the path of Christian yoga can lead to healing of the mind and body. But perhaps even more important than that, it can lead to the discovery of what at the moment is only a potential within you.

Many of classes in the U.S teach the practice of yoga, the physical discipline that focuses on postures or asana, and employ no religious teaching at all. Other yoga teachers have training in yoga schools.

Practitioners say that Christian yoga fills a need for believers who want the health benefits of yoga but are put off by the practice's ancient Hindu roots. With this, it brings together the wonderful physical benefits of yoga within their spiritual beliefs.

The doctrines and practices of yoga date from the period of the Upanishads. The word yoga originated from Hindus, it is a religious practice of Hinduism that through the practice of certain disciplines one may achieve liberation from the limitations of flesh, the delusions of sense, and the pitfalls of thought and thus attain union with the object of knowledge.

Though developed in the ancient Hindu tradition, the movements of Christian yoga are so universal that they can adapt to or be adopted by any culture or spiritual path.

The yoga has been known for many years, and was practiced by some of the Early Christian during the persecution. The spirit and love that touched the Early Christian has been inherent from the men and women today. Christian yoga is about unfolding some of these wonderful possibilities each hold latent. It is about possibilities so amazing that many early Christians were willing to die in support of keeping a doorway open for other people to claim them. Go into it and are transformed by following the Christian pathway, the Christian yoga.

In the Eastern belief, Christian yoga is not an Eastern postures or breathing techniques, rather the aim is to open to an influence that can transform and heal. Eastern yoga attempts to drop the ego, the Christian path aims at transforming the personality. Christian yoga is described absolutely in the New Testament in the story of Jesus’ life as an allegory. It is a step-by-step way of transformation and the finding of a new life. As Jesus promised, this ‘heaven’, this new awareness of your life, is not far away. It is already yours if you know how to find it.

In Western, Christian yoga from its very beginning women played an important role in its practice and teachings. It is about universal processes of life, of mind and heart.

Christian yoga has garnered criticism, despite of its prevalence.

Many Christians says that Christian yoga is incompatible with Christianity, and emphasizing that it is not a religion in itself. Other says that there is no such as Christian yoga because it blends two different belief structure. Catholic priests in Mexico City instructed their parishioners not to attend Yoga classes because this practice would lead to other god’s and Eastern religion beliefs.

Though critics have charged that yoga's ancient Hindu origins are incompatible with Christian faith, practitioners say the exercise is an ideal vehicle for spiritual reflection.

Bikram Yoga - Affectionately Known as "Hot Yoga"

2006-05-02T10:09:00.000-05:00

There are many reasons why you should use Bikram Yoga. The advantages of Bikram Yoga can totally change your life. It’s amazing how Yoga can trigger your life and change your perspectives.

Bikram Yoga is widely known as the “hot yoga”. It was also called the Bikram Method Yoga. This aims to build your mental and physical strength. Improving your flexibility and balance is important and covered by Bikram Yoga.

Bikram yoga has roots in Hatha yoga which was designed to heal the mind and the body.
Bikram Choudhury was the founder of Bikram Yoga. He was a founder and a yoga practitioner.

He developed Bikram Yoga after he met an injury in a weightlifting accident. He was so determined that he had discovered some healing benefits in practicing some exercises. A lot of people have proven the benefits of Bikram Yoga so the practice was passed on and many people continued to practice it.

Some people practice Bikram Yoga for healing purposes and physical therapy. This type of Yoga was proven helpful in bringing holistic benefits to those who believed and practiced it.

In fact, there was a patient who suffered from a knee injury. He tried to practice Bikram Yoga and just six weeks after continuous practice, his knees started to feel better. Some difficulties and pains that he suffered from were all disappearing.

In order to be successful with the healing process of Bikram Yoga, you need devotion in practicing it.

There are some people who do not believe in the benefits of Bikram Yoga. Bikram Choudhury developed Bikram Yoga with the help of some scientists. The scientists from the University of Tokyo University Hospital proved that Bikram Yoga has medical benefits. Some of its benefits include the repairing of tissues and helps in curing chronic ailments.

The findings and benefits were presented at the International Medical Conference in the year 1972. It was stated that Bikram Yoga has the ability to affect the body internally.

The poses and pressure replenishes the cells and the flushing toxins in our body. It also oxygenates blood throughout our body keeping it clean and healthy.

While Bikram was on his research at Tokyo University, he discovered that the healing process takes place when all the body systems are functioning well, conditioned and strengthened. If the body is weak, applying the practice and healing method will be difficult to obtain.

Bikram has come up with twenty-six posture exercises which are to be practiced every day. In doing so, treatment in the body can be easily obtained. Some poses are accumulated with the combination of the western and eastern disciplines in Yoga which focuses on the stretching of the muscles, tendons, organs, nerves, glands and ligaments.

The different postures have connections and each of it precedes a posture that is helpful in treating the body effectively.

Anyone who wants to do yoga can use Biktam Yoga. It chooses no age at all. This type of yoga works with a tourniquet effect which includes balancing, stretching and creating pressure which is all done at a same time to keep a good blood flow to all the parts of the body.

Thanks to Bikram Choudhury, we can now have solutions to some of our medical problems. Always remember that dedication and devotion to Bikram Yoga is the main ingredient to staying healthy.

6 Benefits Of Yoga

2006-05-01T08:53:00.000-05:00

Yoga through meditation works remarkably to achieve harmony and helps the mind work in synchronization with the body. How often do we find that we are unable to perform our activities properly and in a satisfying manner because of the confusions and conflicts in our mind weigh down heavily upon us?

Stress is the number one suspect affecting all parts of our physical, endocrinal and emotional system. And with the help of yoga this things can be corrected.

At the physical level, yoga and its cleansing practices have proven to be extremely effective for various disorders.

Listed below are just some of the benefits of yoga that you can get.

Benefits of Yoga 1:

Yoga is known to increase flexibility; yoga has postures that trigger the different joints of the body. Including those joints that are not acted upon with regular exercises routines.

Benefits of Yoga 2:

Yoga also increases the lubrication of joints, ligament and tendons. The well-researched yoga positions exercise the different tendons and ligaments of the body.

It has also been found that the body which may have started doing yoga being a rigid one may experience a quite remarkable flexibility in the end on those parts of the body which have not been consciously worked upon.

Benefits of Yoga 3:

Yoga also massages all organs of the body. Yoga is perhaps the only exercise that can work on through your internal organs in a thorough manner, including those that hardly get externally stimulated during our entire lifetime.

Benefits of Yoga 4:

Yoga acts in a wholesome manner on the various body parts. This stimulation and massage of the organs in turn benefits us by keeping away disease and providing a forewarning at the first possible instance of a likely onset of disease or disorder.

One of the far-reaching benefits of yoga is the uncanny sense of awareness that it develops in the practitioner of an impending health disorder or infection. This in turn enables the person to take pre-emptive corrective action.

Benefits of Yoga 5:

Yoga offers a complete detoxification of the body. It gently stretches the muscles and joints as well as massaging the various organs, yoga ensures the optimum blood supply to various parts of the body.

This helps in the flushing out of toxins from every nook and cranny of your body as well as providing nourishment up to the last point. This leads to benefits such as delayed ageing, energy and a remarkable zest for life.

Benefits of Yoga 6:

Yoga is also an excellent way to tone your muscles. Muscles which have been flaccid and weak are stimulated repeatedly to shed excess fats and flaccidity.

But these enormous physical benefits are just a “side effect” of this powerful practice. What yoga does is harmonize the mind with the body and these results in real quantum benefits.

It is now an open secret that the will of the mind has enabled people to achieve extraordinary physical feats, which proves beyond doubt the mind and body connection.

In fact yoga = meditation, because both work together in achieving the common goal of unity of mind, body and spirit which can lead to an experience of eternal bliss that you can only feel through yoga.

The meditative practices through yoga help in achieving an emotional balance through detachment.

This in turn creates a remarkable calmness and a positive outlook, which also has tremendous benefits on the physical health of the body.

Is Ashtanga Yoga Right For You?

2006-04-30T08:38:00.000-05:00

Ashtanga Yoga is the type of yoga which was developed and founded by K. Pattabhi Jois. This type of yoga is known as the Eight Limb Yoga which has revolved in Pattanjali's enormous idea. It presented that the path of purification is made up of the eight spiritual practices.

The first four limbs that represent Ashtanga Yoga are – yama, niyama, Asana and the Pranayama. These are considered cleansing practices which are externally correctable. The other set of limbs which are the – pratyahara, dhyana, dharana are the internal practies.

These limbs can only be corrected by the proper application of the Ashtanga Yoga method. This type of yoga method is quite dangerous to the mind.

K. Pattabhi Jois said that practicing these Eight Limbs and also its sub-limbs of the external practices which include the niyama and yama is not possible. In doing so, the body should be strong so that it can perform the practices well enough. If the body is weak, and the sense organs are not functioning well, practicing will never be useful at all.

This is a philosophy that K. Pattabhi Jois has applied, this is important to understand so that in doing the practice, you are sure that the body will improve and the keep it stronger and healthier.

Vinsaya and Tristhana is practiced in Ashtanga Yoga.

The Vinsaya is a style that makes Ashtanga and its principles distinct from the others. Vinsaya means the movement and breathing which is used for the internal cleansing process. Each movement done is accompanied by only one breath. Sweat is the most important product of Vinsaya. When you produce sweat, it only means that you are successfully applying the practice. When you perform the Asanas, the body creates heat which causes your blood to boil and excrete the toxins outside of your body. The toxins are found in your sweat. So the more sweat you create, the more toxins are released.

The poses are used to fully develop the strength and health of the body. The series of practices make this possible. There are three postures used in Ashtaga Yoga.

The three are classified on different levels.

The first is the Primary Series which aims on aligning the body and also detoxifying it.

The second is the Intermediate Series opening and cleaning the energy channels which comes to the process of purifying the Nervous System.

The last series would be the Advanced Series from A to D. in this series, the grace and strength is measured.

The Tristhana is another yoga principle which represents the union of the three places of action and attention. First is the posture, second is the breathing technique ad last is the Dristhi of the Looking Place. All these three should work altogether to perform a function.

Breathing techniques are simultaneous and synchronized. It is important to make a single breath for one movement. Ujjayi Breathing is the Yoga Breathing Technique used in the application of Ashtanga Yoga. Applying this technique must be prolonged after every practice.

What you need to master is holding your pose longer at the same time hold your breath. This is an amazing breathing exercise that will increase your internal fire and will strengthen the Nervous System.

Both Ashtanga and Tristhana deal with the series of Dristhi. The Dristhi is described as the point on which you gain your focus or attention while doing the Asana. This enables your mind to be purified and stabilized clearly.

Setting the mind clear and cleansing it can only be done in the Eight-Limb Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga.

Adho Mukha Svanasana :: Yoga.com

2006-04-25T06:32:00.000-05:00

Shannon Brophy, Yoga.com

Pronunciation
(AH-doh MOO-kuh shvah-NAWS-annah)

Translation
In Sanskrit Adho means “downward”, mukha means “face”, and svana means “dog.” The word for pose is asana. Thus, Adho Mukha Svanasana means Downward-Facing Dog Pose.

Introduction

In this pose your body forms a triangular pyramidal shape. The posture resembles a dog stretching after a nap. Do the Downward Facing Dog Pose as a preparation for standing poses and as a warm-up
of your muscles at the beginning of yoga practice.

In many styles of yoga, this posture is repeated many times during any
given yoga class. It provides a transition between poses, especially in
sun salutations and vinyasa flow yoga. For many it is the first pose they
learn as they begin to do yoga.

Because the head is lower than the pelvis this pose is often classified as an
inversion posture.

Step by Step

Come onto the floor, lying on your stomach. Place the spread fingertips on
the floor, lined up with your shoulders. Your middle fingers should be parallel
to each other.

Your feet are hip width apart. Turn your toes under.

On an exhalation, move into the initial posture. This is a position on the balls
of the feet, with the heels lifted high with the buttocks elevated and the arms
and legs extended. This initial posture can be assumed either by keeping the
back straight and pushing up into the pose. If this requires too much muscular
exertion, allow the back to round as you straighten the arms and then raise the
buttocks.

In this initial pose as well as in the completed pose the weight should be equally
distributed between the left and right sides of the body. That is, there should be
equal weight on the left and right legs as well as equal weight on the left and right
arms.

Bring the spine forward between your shoulder blades as you rotate your “sit-
bones” up towards the sky. Now descend your heels to or towards the floor as
you continue to elevate your sit-bones. This movement involves simultaneously
stretching from the middle of your back legs up towards the ceiling and also down
towards the floor.

This is the completed pose.

In the completed pose you should work on each of the following components of
the pose:

- Keep each kneecap aligned in the medial plane of each of your legs.

- Use your leg's quadriceps muscles to keep your kneecaps raised towards the
pelvis with the back knees “filled out”.

- Move the shoulder blades as far away from the spine as possible so as to create
space for the spine to descend between the shoulder blades as you move it forward
towards the space between your shins.

- The inner and outer armpits should feel as if they are at the same distance
from the floor. For many the outer armpits are higher. If this is the case, equalize
the inner and outer armpit height by rolling the outer arms down and the inner arms
up. This movement of the arms also helps bring the shoulder blades away from the
spine.

- When your leg muscles do not yet have enough length the back tends to round.
Strive to bring the spine to its normal standing curvatures. For many that means
stretching it by moving the upper thighs away from the pelvis as you rotate your
sit-bones up and bring your spine further forward through your shoulders. For
those rare individuals with particularly mobile spines this means being careful not
to allow too deep a concave curve to be present in the lower back.

-Continually work on descending the heels towards the floor. In general, it is more
important to have the heels greet the floor than it is to bring the crown of the head
in contact with the floor.

In the pose your body is in an inverted “V” shape with your sitting bones rolling up
toward the ceiling. Lengthen your spine so that your tailbone extends up and away
from the back of your pelvis. Aim your chest to the knees with an extended spine.
Keep your arms and legs straight, lifting up your kneecaps with your quadriceps
with perfectly straight legs.

Your torso goes toward your legs so the head hangs freely and more toward the
floor. Eventually, the crown of your head may touch the floor.

As a variation, place a block under your head. This makes the pose more of a
restorative and cooling pose.

As your hamstrings become more stretched with practice, you should be able to
get the heels on the floor without losing the spinal extension. Do not worry if your
heels do yet not reach the floor. Keep the feet parallel and work on getting weight
on the back part of the ball of your foot.

As you work in the pose, continually observe the distribution of your weight on
each part of your feet, on your hands and your fingers. Keep equal weight on both
sides of the body and in all parts of hand or foot.

In the beginning, your arms and shoulders may carry more weight, but as you
become more stretched more weight is carried by the legs. As you draw the hips
back, the weight on the arms shoulders is reduced.

Over time extend the time in which you hold this pose. As you become able to
work in the pose for longer periods of time you will gain in strength and in stretch.
Eventually you should be able to hold and continually work in the pose for at least
five minutes.

Resting in Child’s Pose on the floor is a way of restoring yourself after this pose.

Beginner’s Tip

Place a block on its side under each hand as you do the pose. You will be able to
feel a grounding of your heels more easily. This variation takes weight out of your
arms and shoulders and allows you to be much more present in your legs in the pose.
This variation is especially good also if you are suffering from a hand, arm, or
shoulder injury since it takes some weight out of those areas.

Benefits

A great preparation for standing poses
Helps back to be less stiffMay cure backaches in some people and prevent them as well
Good for sciatica if done mindfully
Strenghthens and lengthens the spine
Revitalizes energy.
Strengthens the legs and ankles
Lessens stiffness in the heels and legs
Opens up the shoulder blades
Helps relieve stress and mild depression
Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause
May relieve menstrual discomfort when done with head supported
May help prevent osteoporosis
Improves digestion
Relieves some headaches and insomnia
Is suggested for high blood pressure, asthma, flat feet, sciatica, sinusitis
Give the brain more blood flow which is healthy
Chest opening
Stretches the back of the body, especially hips and hamstrings

Cautions

Don’t do the pose with these conditions:

Carpal tunnel syndrome
Diarrhea
For extended periods during menstruation
Pregnancy: Do not do this pose late-term.
High blood pressure or headache:
Support your head on a block

http://www.yoga.com

My Yoga For Life - Yoga Exercise| Benefit of Yoga Positions

2006-04-18T06:44:00.000-05:00

My Yoga For Life - Yoga Exercise Benefit of Yoga Positions:

The Benefit of Yoga Yoga is a science; and indeed, in many places in the
world (such as India), it is referred to as a science. This is not mere playing
with words; it truly is approached as a science, which means that it is
understood in terms of the scientific method.

Yogic science seeks to verify cause and effect, and build principles based
upon objective observations. Indeed, in many places in the world, to be
a yogic master of any credibility, one must be highly educated in the sciences,
including physics and the biological sciences.

This discussion on yoga as science is important for us to have here, because
it allows us to sensible ask the question: what are the benefits of yoga? After
all, if yoga is a faith or a belief, then asking this question isn't fair; because it's
one that yoga cannot answer in terms that we can objectively understand.

Yoga is a science; as empirical and pragmatic as kinesiology, or exercise science,
which seeks to understand how the body acts and reacts to changes in the internal
physical environment. And even more simply than any of this: each of us has a
right to ask the basic question why should I bother doing this yoga thing? before
we should be asked to consider experiencing it for ourselves.

Indeed, while the experience of yoga cannot be reduced to words – just as reading
a book on preparing for a marathon isn't going to actually physically prepare you
to run a marathon – the goals and principles of yoga can easily be discussed.

Here's the Mayo Clinic's take on the benefits of meditation:

'Meditation is used by people who are perfectly healthy as a means of stress
reduction. But if you have a medical condition that's worsened by stress, you
might find the practice valuable in reducing the stress-related effects of allergies,
asthma, chronic pain and arthritis, among others."

Continue Reading

Bryan Kest's Power Yoga | About Yoga: Taking a Look

2006-04-11T19:38:00.000-05:00

Bryan Kest's Power Yoga

A fitness routine based on aesthetics feeds your ego, not
your spirit. By increasing your ego, you actually become
more vulnerable, more susceptible to the everyday occurrences
that are out of your control. By feeding your ego, you ignore
what you truly need in order to create something your ego
desires. Consequently, you end up working against yourself
and your goal of health, and you actually create more imbalance.

Power Yoga is directed at creating the highest level of energy,
vitality and freedom. The only way to do this is to work with
yourself, not against yourself. By working hard sensitively, we
create an environment that's healing and that honors each
individual, an environment that respects our boundaries and works
within him or her. In this way, we create an atmosphere conducive
to natural expansion and growth. We're not interested in pushing
past our edge to get to a place where we've been brainwashed into
thinking we need to be in order to have happiness!

The fact is, we're all different: different faces, shapes, sizes,
personalities, etc.... We all shouldn't have and can't have the
same bodies. Our life experiences and genetic dispositions make
us different. Real health and vitality comes when we stop comparing
and competing with each other, and start listening to the voice
within that tells us what we need. We don't need to have the
'best body;' we need to have our own body. By turning off the
controlling mind, we can finally listen to the innate wisdom
that waits to be heard.

The sad state of this planet is a prime example of how we've
stopped listening. Our egos and intellects have gotten so big
we've become enamored with ourselves and our capabilities. Our
great societies, with all their cities and technological advances,
are monuments to the seemingly unfailing prowess of the intellect.
But the fact is, our intellect is only a small fraction of our
intelligence. By shutting down our other faculties in favor of
the intellect, we move away from our natural balance. Hence, the
state of our people and planet.

Continue Reading

Yoga Journal : Poses - Use our search tools to find asanas by anatomical focus, therapeutic application, or contraindication, or just browse poses by name.

2006-04-04T22:49:00.000-05:00

Ustrasana (Camel Pose)

Camel Pose is a transition between the simpler prone backbends like Dhanuranasa (Bow Pose) and the more challenging backbends like Urdhva Dhanurasana (Upward Bow Pose). For this pose you can pad your knees and shins with a thickly folded blanket.

(oosh-TRAHS-anna)
ustra = camel

Benefits

Stretches the entire front of the body, the ankles, thighs and groins,
Abdomen and chest, and throat
Stretches the deep hip flexors (psoas)
Strengthens back muscles
Improves posture
Stimulates the organs of the abdomen and neck

Contraindications

High or low blood pressure
Migraine
Insomnia
Serious low back or neck injury

Step by Step

Kneel on the floor with your knees hip width and thighs perpendicular to the floor. Rotate your thighs inward slightly, narrow your hip points, and firm but don't harden your buttocks. Imagine that you're drawing your sitting bones up, into your torso. Keep your outer hips as soft as possible. Press your shins and the tops of your feet firmly into floor.

Rest your hands on the back of your pelvis, bases of the palms on the tops of the buttocks, fingers pointing down. Use your hands to spread the back pelvis and lengthen it down through your tail bone. Then lightly firm the tail forward, toward the pubis. Make sure though that your front groins don't 'puff' forward. To prevent this, press your front thighs back, countering the forward action of your tail. Inhale and lift your heart by pressing the shoulder blades against your back ribs.

Now lean back against the firmness of the tail bone and shoulder blades...

Yoga at Yoga Fire - Feel the Heat

2006-04-02T19:01:00.000-05:00

Yoga at Yoga Fire - Feel the Heat: "Lose Weight with Yoga
by Michael Bens

Yoga might not be the first thing anyone thinks of when they think of an exercise to help them lose weight. Think again - though the results may not be as fast as with other types of exercise, the long term benefits of yoga (in terms of weight loss and overall health) are great.

Yoga is a system of exercise that is thousands of years old. Conceived in India, it is now practiced world wide. The type of yoga that is most often practiced in the west is known as 'hatha' yoga - however, this is by no means the only type of yoga. Others include kundalini, which involves breathe work and is quite a bit different from other types of yoga.

Some athletes are rather disparaging of yoga, wondering how something so gentle can cause you to lose weight or significantly increase your fitness level. The fact is, however, that it can, and at the same time, it can increase your concentration, clarity, and sense of well being. There is really no reason not to take up yoga, if you are at all attracted to the idea.

Choose a beginner's yoga class at first, and go slow - it can be harder than you think. Hatha yoga involves putting yourself into a variety of different positions, some more challenging than others. The goal is not to do them quickly, or to work up a sweat; the goal is to take those few positions and to perfect them - do them as precisely as you possibly can. That way, your body is being trained in a precise skill and discipline, and the position itself can have various benefits for your health and your mind, as well. "

The different positions have their own benefits. For losing weight, positions that bring the chin down to stimulate the thyroid gland are helpful - such as the classic shoulder stand, for instance.

However, yoga in general is helpful for weight loss because it makes you more conscious of your body, of how you hold yourself and how you stand, while it also tones your muscles and makes your body more flexible, easier to move. Even before you start losing weight, yoga can make you look as if you're thinner and more attractive by getting you to stand up straighter. Some people even claim that yoga has made them taller - one woman claims to have grown a full three inches! Of course, she didn't really, but once she started to stand up straighter, people responded to her as if she were really taller.

Karen Zebroff, who used to have a TV yoga exercise program, is credited with having brought yoga to the North American public in the 1970s. Yoga literally changed every aspect of her life. She lost weight - about twenty pounds - and the weight she continued to carry was distributed better on her body. As a result of this, the depression she had been experiencing lifted, and she felt better about herself.

Interestingly, though yoga is a great weight loss measure, it's also used to treat girls with eating disorders such as anorexia. There are several reasons why that approach is effective. First, anorexic girls feel anxious if they can't exercise, as many of them used over-exercising as a means of weight control. Once they are in treatment, of course, they can't be allowed to jog or do other exercise that might prevent them from making progress with weight gain. Gentle yoga is different, though. Practiced in a low-impact setting, it can provide some exercise without making an already emaciated girl thinner. Yoga also eases the anxiety of these girls, and it makes them more conscious of their bodies.

In fact, it does the same thing for people with the opposite type of eating disorder - binge eating or compulsive overeating. As a matter of fact, that condition and anorexia are not as different as you might assume. Yes, one causes overweight and the other can bring on starvation, but both stem from a fundamental discomfort with the body and underlying emotional issues. Yoga can help with all of these issues, and if you are looking to lose weight, it can be a great choice for you.

About the Author
Authored by Michael Bens. For more great information on weight loss, diets, nutrition, and living a great healthy life style visit Gabae Weight Loss http://www.gabaeweightloss.com/

Yoga Journal : For Beginners: Utthita Trikonasana

2006-03-31T10:18:00.000-06:00

Yoga Journal : For Beginners: Utthita Trikonasana: "For Beginners: Utthita Trikonasana
Not just for beginners, Extended Triangle Pose can unlock tension in your legs, hips, and spine.
By Denise Benitez

In most yoga traditions, standing poses are some of the first poses taught to beginners. Even though Trikonasana is thought of as a 'beginning' standing pose, it is one you will probably always include in your yoga repertoire. In my own practice, there is hardly a day that goes by when I don't practice Trikonasana. In my classes, I usually throw it into the mix no matter what our focus is—it extends the spine and opens the hips in preparation for backbends; lengthens the hamstrings and opens the hips in preparation for deeper forward bends; teaches the connection between legs, hips, and spine in preparation for inversions; and lengthens the spine and strengthens the back in preparation for deeper twists.

You can think of this pose as a teacher of basic movement principles that apply to many other poses. You can also explore, as we will here, the play of opposites in this pose—establishing a solid foundation in order to fly, standing firmly on your feet in order to grow away from the earth, and finding muscle support and strength in order to expand and become lighter and less serious.

Have you ever noticed how much of the day you spend drawing into yourself and becoming contracted? Have you observed the effects of traffic, noise, deadlines, and fear on your physical state? In the city, where most of us live, there is often a tendency to unconsciously retract our physical selves in toward the center as a protection tactic. This is not inherently unwise, but over time it takes a toll on our psychospiritual state. I am constantly reminded of...

Read More

Take Time for You - Even If You Can't Fit in a Yoga Pose

2006-03-28T13:08:00.000-06:00

Just now I received an email that really hit home. I
find myself always feeling stressed due to lack of time,
but try and force myself to take a few minutes for
myself.

Read the article and head the advice...it's well worth
it as are you.

=============================

Hello again, it's Della,

I don't know about you, but I am the type of person who is
very goal-oriented. When I have a goal that I am working
on, I get very excited about the idea of accomplishing it.
I work hard to do the things that are necessary to achieve
the goal, but then something else happens.

I become obsessed with the goal. Whenever I am working on
the goal, I am thinking about all of the other things I need
to do to make the goal a reality.

When I am doing something else, (like eating, getting
dressed, or even sleeping), my mind is fixated on all of the
tasks that I still need to do in order to accomplish my
goal. I begin to feel stressed and overwhelmed.

I have often been told that I need to go home and, for at
least several minutes each day, do absolutely - NOTHING.
The thought is terrifying because I have so many things I
need to do and there is never enough time. I don't have
time to do nothing.

Does this sound like you? Do you feel that you have too
many things to do and never enough time to do them? Do you
feel like you couldn't possibly take a few minutes each day
to do nothing, but just breathe and take a few moments to
relax?

Well, the truth is that no matter how busy you are, you do
have a few minutes each day to spare. You can find some
time (even if it's only fifteen minutes) to just do nothing
but be in the moment.

Not only do you deserve to take some time for yourself,
doing this will also make you more relaxed and productive
throughout the day.

One of the things you can do during this precious time is a
yoga pose or two. You are not doing it for any reason other
than it feels so good. If you can't fit in a pose, then
take a few moments to breathe deeply. Surely you can find
the time to close your eyes and breathe.

Being still is not something that comes naturally to me.
However, I have learned to take time each day to breathe,
focus inward, and take my attention away from all the things
that are going on in my life.

If I can find the time to do it, so can you. (Find out how
you can use yoga DVD's quickly and easily. Check out this
article at http://www.beauty-fitness-yoga-source.com/yoga-DVDs.html)

Make a commitment to yourself to find a few minutes each day
that are just for you. You are worth it and your whole life
will change for the better.

Della Menechella
http://www.beauty-fitness-yoga-source.com/index.html

Fueling the Fire Within: The healing heat of Ashtanga Yoga

2006-03-27T18:31:00.000-06:00

by Annie Woods

One of the most high-profile yoga practices today � practiced faithfully by the likes of Madonna, Sting and Woody Harrelson � Ashtanga has gained a reputation as a 'go for the burn' workout designed to pump up the sweat and create lean and mean muscle. This is the common Americanized definition of Ashtanga yoga, which has morphed into variations called 'power' yoga or 'flow' yoga, often taught at gyms and health clubs in the same league as heavy-duty aerobic exercise.

Ashtanga yoga is designed to create a healthier, stronger and more flexible body, but 'it is not a workout, it is a practice,' stresses Nicki Doane, acclaimed yoga expert, student of Ashtanga yogi Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, and featured instructor on Gaiam's new Ashtanga Yoga programs.

Ashtanga Roots and Limbs
Ashtanga yoga can be traced back 4,000 years to the sacred texts of the Yoga Korunta, a path rooted in developing eight (asht) limbs or spiritual practices (anga):

yama (moral observance)
niyama (inner integrity)
asana (postures)
pranayama (breath control)
pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)
dharana (concentration)
dhyana (meditation)
samadhi (concentration)

In 1948 renowned yoga master Sri K. Pattabhi Jois founded the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India to study and practice the curative value of yoga as described in these ancient texts. Under the direction of his teacher, Sri Krishnamacharya, he carried on the teachings of Ashtanga yoga � a vigorous form of yoga integrating a continuous and dynamic flow of movements (vinyasa) with special breathing techniques to create heat in the body and help purge it of toxins, while also increasing endurance, flexibility and strength.

Sister Practices and Ashtanga Fire

While related practices like "power" and "flow" yogas often incorporate some Ashtanga movements and principles into a demanding workout, authentic Ashtanga yoga follows a specific system that slowly acclimates the body to more difficult poses through progressive endurance.

"Ashtanga is a sequential system that builds poses on top of each other, similar to stacking blocks," explains Doane, "You do not move on to the next posture until you are very familiar with, and have practiced, the previous posture."

Ashtanga Yoga DVD Set

Doane compares building an Ashtanga practice to carefully nurturing a fire within. "The fire of Ashtanga yoga can burn very hot and people who do too much too fast have a tendency to burn out on this system. But if you stoke the fire slowly and build your strength slowly, you will not burn out, but instead will continue to glow brightly.

Ashtanga, Accessible to Anyone

Though many have found Ashtanga out of reach because of its physically challenging nature, Doane's two new Gaiam Ashtanga programs are designed to be easy to follow and learn — even for those new to yoga. Each guides you through basic Ashtanga movements and pacing to help you make steady, measured progress and deepen the unique purifying experience of Ashtanga.

Ashtanga Yoga: Introductory Poses shows you the essentials
Ashtanga Yoga: Beginners Pratice helps you deepen your practice

"Do the first program (Introductory Poses) for at least a month to get strong and add poses slowly," Doane advises. "Then try the second program if you feel strong."

Trusting your body and its individual flow is the wisdom of Ashtanga. Renowned yogi David Swenson summed it up recently in Yoga Journal:

"(Pattahbi) Jois says, 'Yoga is 99 percent practice, 1 percent theory.' Yoga takes care of you if you stick with it. You start to sense what's right and what's wrong, and you follow a path of moral living and meditation because it feels right. The answers are in the practice, and the practice never judges you. It's ready when you are."

Ashtanga yoga is designed to become increasingly intense and rewarding as you determine when to move at a faster pace and when to integrate more difficult postures. Because of its progressive nature, Ashtanga students often refer to it as a continuing path of discovery, a way of life and a practice that has direct carryover into everyday activities. So why Ashtanga — and why now?

"Intense times call for intense practices," observes Doane. "People are looking for a way to connect deeply to themselves and to those around them — and Ashtanga yoga is all about connecting. It teaches us to be fully present in each moment and to love life and appreciate the Earth."

Nicki Doane has been practicing and teaching Ashtanga yoga for 12 years. Her passion for the practice led her to study multiple times with Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in India, where she completed the primary through advanced series. She currently teaches with her husband, Eddie Modestini, in a studio overlooking the Pacific on Maui.

About the Author:
Annie WoodsAn award-winning journalist, Annie Woods-Tornick has been writing about alternative health and environmental issues, contemporary culture, spirituality, education and art for 20 years. Also a former college instructor, she now lives in the Denver area.

Yoga Basics for Beginners

2006-03-24T17:58:00.000-06:00

Basic Yoga positions are designed specifically for beginners
and are actually quite simple to master even if you have never
tried yoga before.

More experienced practitioners of yoga talk about the unification
of the mind, body and spirit claiming that anyone can develop and
accomplish this unification if they practice the basic principals of
yoga exercises and techniques. Masters of Yoga have always
believed that there is a bond formed between the body and mind
that works towards creating a unified structure.

And even over the years, this belief has never faltered nor changed.
Yoga has the amazing ability to aid in the healing of oneself through
harmony which can be done quite successfully if you are in the right
environment.

A lot of research has been implemented to prove that yoga can be
helpful in the healing process. Doctors have even recommended the
therapeutic results of yoga to their patients who have illnesses that
tend to be more difficult to cure.

It has even been proven that yoga positions are extremely effective
and useful when it comes to maintaining a high level of joint flexibility.
Although the yoga positions for beginners are rather simple and basic,
it can slowly help you build towards a healthier lifestyle which will only
increase if practiced on a regular basis over a long period of time.

So, if you are one who has suffered from an illness for any length of
time, yoga may be a solution well worth your consideration. Start with
the basic positions for beginners and you may discover the results that
many of raved about. In order to gain the full benefits that yoga provides,
you'll need to develop a strong belief in the yoga principals and how, if
practiced on a regular basis, they can work towards many curing effects
or even a renewed sense of being.

Being unfamiliar with yoga, it is only common that you will find it a little
intimidating. Not knowing which excercises are best suited for you
personally and even more importantly, how to properly execute these
positions will probably be your first concern.

Yoga positions for beginners are quite interesting and fun to perform.
As a beginner, you won't find yourself struggling to keep up with the
exercises because of their simplicity. And you don't need to spend a
fortune on pricey training centers, you can easily master the
techniques and positions right in the comfort of your own home.

Some of the beginner yoga positions include standing poses, seated
poses, forward and backward bends, balance and twisting. As you
master the yoga positions for beginners, you'll naturally move into
the more extreme poses and postions that the more experienced
yogis perform.

And as you grow and build your endurance, you'll find you will easily
be able to practice yoga for longer periods of time in each session.
As a beginner, you'll need to move forward slowly to allow your body
ample time to build the strength necessary for more advanced positions.
Mastering and understanding the importance of self-discipline is
something you should work towards in every session.

Yoga is not just about casually performing and executing the various
poses. You need to take the time to master the basics and experience
the true essence of yoga before moving on to more complex stages and
postitions.

Allow yourself to experience yoga as is was meant to be experienced
when it first originated and you'll be more than happy with the final
results. So much so, that it may become addicting...in a good way of course.

For more indepth information and yoga positions for beginners, we have
compiled a few resources that should get you started:

http://www.yogaforbeginners.com/
http://www.experiencefestival.com/a/Yoga_Postures/id/23342
http://www.holistic-online.com/Yoga/hol_yoga_home.htm
http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/yogabeginnersguide.asp

Q & A - Yoga Vs. Pilates - Which Is Better?

2006-03-23T23:45:00.000-06:00

Yoga Vs. Pilates - Which Is Better?

Over the past decade, people have increasingly come to see fitness as a mind-body experience. This trend is an excellent one; a mind-body approach to exercise keeps you interested longer and in the long run, it's more effective too. The mind controls the body - if you engage your awareness, you perform any task more effectively. And if your mind's engaged there's less room for boredom to set in. All forms of physical fitness can, and should, utilize both mind and body, but there are many exercise techniques which are just naturally mind-body experiences. The two most popular are - as you no doubt know - Yoga and Pilates. People who are interested in adding a mind-body component to their exercise routine often ask, 'which is best - Yoga or Pilates?

Actually, there's no real 'Yoga versus Pilates' debate - each one has a different focus and approach. Whether you gravitate towards one or the other really depends on your personality and own personal philosophies. If you have the time you can even do both without a lot of overlap - your muscles and flexibility will be trained from different angles and actually benefit. Most people, however, only have time for one or the other. Here's a brief overview to help you decide which one is right for you.

Keep in mind that neither discipline is new - Yoga originated in India and has been around for thousands of years. It was brought to the Western world more than a hundred years ago and was popularized by people like Paramahansa Yogananda and Indra Devi in the middle of the twentieth century. It has increased in popularity since the 1960s counter-culture movement and today it is a mainstream form of fitness. Pilates is a mere youngster by comparison - it was created in the 1920s by a German, Joseph H. Pilates, who built upon rehabilitative techniques he used on wounded soldiers during World War I. When he relocated to the United States prior to World War II, dancers soon embraced the movements, which helped them recover quickly from injuries and made their bodies long and lean. Only since the mid-1990s has Pilates made inroads into mainstream fitness, but it has been catching on very quickly for the same reasons that dancers liked it so much - nearly everyone wants long, lean muscles, combined with truly functional fitness.

The biggest difference between Yoga and Pilates is more philosophical than physical. While Pilates takes a mind-body approach to exercise, Yoga's view involves mind, body and spirit. Its principles come from Hindu ideals and its approach is decidedly Eastern in nature. In reality, this should bother few people outside of those with fundamentalist religious beliefs - Yoga's Yamas and Niyamas (suggestions for living) bear some similarities in principle to Christianity's Ten Commandments (they're not quite as stern as the Commandments, however). Yoga's teachings encourage us to be kind to all beings, including ourselves, and to search for balance in our lives and lifestyle. You won't find any of this in a Pilates class, which only focuses on mental concentration, breathing and movement.

The physical differences between Yoga and Pilates derive from their contrasting outlooks. Yoga's approach is holistic, emphasizing balance in all areas - equally strengthening all muscle groups, creating mental and physical balance, encouraging moderation in everything. Pilates mainly works on the core muscles in your trunk (called the powerhouse), and building strength there above all. Yoga, for the most part, involves static poses, which are held while exploring your breathing, physical feelings and emotions. Pilates is about moving in ways that help strengthen your powerhouse, including your stabilizing muscles. Yoga emphasizes flexibility over building strength (although it enhances both), while Pilates emphasizes toning over flexibility (but, again, it enhances both).

The choice between Yoga and Pilates depends on what you are looking for. If you want an exercise that improves flexibility while toning your muscles - especially those abs - then Pilates is probably your better choice. If you want to concentrate a bit more on flexibility and a little less on toning (perhaps you're getting your strength training elsewhere), and you are also searching for something that helps reduce stress and gives you an opportunity for some quiet time, then you should try Yoga. If you have strong religious convictions, you may also be better off with Pilates, although many Yoga classes these days offer little or no philosophy and are acceptable for all religious persuasions. Either choice is good - you're enhancing your body's health in a way no other form of exercise can accomplish.

Got a question? Send it to us at editor@allspiritfitness.com.

Gain Ultimate Health and Bliss Through Yoga Relaxation

2006-03-19T22:46:00.000-06:00

Until recently, I was completely unaware of the connection between
yoga benefits and yoga relaxation. Like many women, I also sought
comfort in many activities such as socializing, hot baths, watching
movies, or reading a good book to ease the daily stresses.

It was only when I started yoga that I became aware of the immense
yoga benefits that can be gained from a state of deep relaxation. Only
a few yoga relaxation sessions were needed for me to reach a sublime
state of harmony.

Women have totally different reasons for practicing yoga. Some women
are interested in the health benefits they obtain after performing yoga
exercises routinely, while others practice yoga to accomplish the desired
state of harmony between the inner and outer self, but a large number
of women carry out yoga sessions simply for relaxation.

At this conjuncture, a very critical question crops up?

Why can't leisure activities contribute to relaxation??

I figure, that leisure activities are merely a temporary solution
providing an escape from stressful conditions and emotions and are
not empowering you with the mindset or emotional strength you need
to solve the problems that may occur. As soon as you are confronted
with those same or similar challenges, you neither understand how to
react to them nor do you know how to deal with them effectively.

Accomplished yoga practitioners say that yoga relaxation develops a
woman's ability to deal with stress more effectively and at the same
time makes her more energized, focused and relaxed. As a consequence,
a woman is able to regain her mental composure quickly during
stressful conditions thereby giving her the ability to handle any situation
that may come up with ease and confidence.

This is one of the greatest yoga benefits associated with yoga relaxation.
Today's women live under overt and subtle pressures to look good,
function well and impress others. She has to deal with competition at
work and difficulties in personal relationships. All these lifestyle factors
adversely affect her physical and mental well being.

Under such circumstances, the big question is,

"How can a woman preserve her physical and mental health?

You don't have to scratch your head to find an answer because yoga,
the legacy of our forefathers is still powerful enough to help today's
woman remain healthy.

Ultimate Yoga Benefits

If you still have doubts about the effectiveness of this ancient system
of exercise, then consider the varied benefits found by thoroughly
exploring and investigating yoga.

1. Yoga relaxation improves the overall physical and mental health of
a woman through the relaxing effect on her body and the soothing
effect on her mind. This is one of the most basic yoga benefits related
to relaxation.

2. It relieves and delays the onset of fatigue.

3. Yoga relaxation works to expand the consciousness, which brings
about greater freedom from negative conditioning and repressed
memories.

4. It helps a woman to minimize and alleviate illusions, confusions,
and inessential burdens, and develop a life that is more focused.

5. Life is complex and challenging. Yoga relaxation helps us to deal
with the modern stresses of competition, complexity and change.

There are many more yoga benefits that can be associated with yoga
relaxation. In fact, each yoga practitioner has an incredible yoga health
benefit experience they could share.

Five Important Components

To achieve ultimate yoga benefits and to accelerate the process of
arriving at the intense level of relaxation you desire, yoga practitioners
advocate commitment to five important components of yoga:

1. Diet - It is an important factor because the things we eat effect not
only the structure of our body, but also our brain.

2. Breathing techniques - Deep and prolonged breaths help your brain
to remain oxygenated, which contributes to analyzing things in a clearer
way.

3. Postures - They cultivate and maintain mental and physical balance,
strength and health. They are most beneficial when practiced on a
normal or daily basis and at the same time.

4. Meditation practice - During relaxation it is important to mediate on
the true values of the world.

5. Relaxation practice - Yoga postures are often cumbersome and
demand a lot of attention therefore yoga relaxation is a necessary and
mandatory stage of every yoga routine.

Yoga is a connection between spiritual and real world, and yoga
relaxation is considered to be a stage which safely brings you back to the
current reality you live in.

To yield rich yoga benefits out of yoga relaxation, a woman should have
the right attitude and focus. These are considered to be the key elements.
Entering the profound stage of relaxation and synchronization between
your inner and your outer self cannot happen unless you physically and
mentally desire it.

Welcome to Yoga For Life

2006-03-19T11:18:00.000-06:00

Yoga for Life- Welcome to the new blog

Hi everybody and welcome to the new blog I have set up. Over the coming
weeks I will be adding many articles on Yoga and related topics that will
give you all the infromation you need to make Yoga an intrical part of your
life.

Please keep coming back to stay updated and informed. You can even
add us to your favourite rss reader for instant updates directly to your
browser so you never miss a single Yoga article!