Archive for April, 2007

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Some Gurus, and Master Yoga, teachers do not embrace the concept of Yogic principles being used for success, self-improvement, and for acquiring abundance. After all, many people have misused power, and abundance, ever since primal man could stand up on two feet.

Lord Acton’s words ring true very often, when he said, “Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Many times, throughout history, famous people have fallen prey to power, which they thought they could handle, but learned that temptation was more powerful than their code of ethics.

Yet, we cannot help the poor much, if we are also poor. You can perform selfless service (Karma Yoga), no matter how much money you have; but you cannot contribute food to the poor, if you are waiting in line at a soup kitchen.

Therefore, if you have a plan for success, you should also have a plan to help those in need. The ancient Yogis completely understood the difference between wanting and envisioning. They also understood the pitfalls of each.

Children “want,” and so do “big children,” in adult bodies. They want without vision and take no action. Adults who take no action have mottos such as: “Why me?” “Why is life so unfair?” and “If life was fair, I would be rich.”

Whatever fortune falls into the lap of a person who wants, it is taken for granted and quickly squandered. The saying, “Easy come, easy go,” can become a lifestyle.

Envisioning is completely different from wanting. Envisioning allows a person to take a concerted effort toward a goal and achieve it. When a Yoga practitioner envisions something, it will often “come to pass,” because he or she took action, in the form of small steps, to make a thought become reality.

It is interesting, when the world, outside India, is “hooked” on Hatha Yoga (Union by Physical Mastery). Yet, Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Raja Yoga, are considered more advanced forms because they enhance mental and spiritual health. You see, the real power is in the mental and spiritual forms of Yoga.

Luckily, most people age, and mellow a bit, before discovering the true powers of envisioning and action. However, integrity ethics, and character, are often in short supply, when someone becomes “instantly rich.”

How often do we read about sports, and movie celebrities, who cannot handle their instant fame or material wealth? This is why the Law of Karma, and practicing Karma Yoga, are so important. Design a plan to give, help, and forgive, whenever you envision success.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – May Schedule
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Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga *
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday Night Yoga Classes will become a featured class of the month.

Starting June 5, 2007, Vinyasa will change to Yoga on the Ball.

Regular Classes at Aura Wellness Center will be closed for the first two weeks of July 2007.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

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Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
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By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Although Office Yoga practice resembles Chair Yoga routines, there is usually a difference in the mobility of the average participant. Chair Yoga is most commonly seen in senior centers, nursing homes, assisted living complexes, physical rehabilitation units and adult day care centers. On the other hand, Office Yoga is taught to the “work force,” which should be more mobile than the average senior citizen, but there are always exceptions.

What are Office Yoga warm up exercises like?

You can begin in a seated or standing posture, but most office workers should get up and out of the chair. Circular movements are good for massaging internal organs and swishing synovial fluid around the joints. Synovial fluid lubricates your joint surfaces and sends nutrients to the cartilage within your joints.

One of the most important things to remember is that slow and controlled circular movement for most joints is fine. However, the neck and knees demand special attention. The neck is not a “ball and socket” joint, so it is not designed for excessive friction. Any neck warm ups should be linear and you should avoid forcing or hyper-extending your neck at all times.

The knees should avoid excessive rotation and friction. If you wish to swish synovial fluid around the knee joint, you should lift one foot off the floor and slowly move the knee forward and back. You can also move the knee in circles, with one foot off the ground, but the hip and ankles will move with it, which is fine.

Once both feet are on the ground, the knee is often the axis of movement. When performing Arm Swings, which are a common warm up exercise in Yoga class, the knee rotates along with a full body motion.

For example: When you swing to the left, the right knee bends, the right heel should rise off the floor, and there is no excessive torque put on the left knee. So the swing is controlled and you should be mindful of both knees in order to avoid excess friction, force, or torque.

Shoulder shrugs are a priceless warm up for an Office Yoga class. This is a stress relieving exercise, as well as a warm up. Many office workers have stress build up in the back, shoulders, and neck. With that said, the shoulder shrug is a preventative exercise for headaches, back spasms, and neck pain. These are just a sampling of the most common ailments office workers have from excessive sitting and typing.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – May Schedule
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Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Regular Classes at Aura Wellness Center will be closed for the first two weeks of July 2007.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Could Yoga increase office productivity? Can Yoga teachers help the corporate sector? What can Office Yoga programs do for large and small businesses? Let’s look at solutions that Yoga can offer to the business world.

The number of office workers has increased, with the invention of the personal computer. Working excessive hours in front of a personal computer can create a multitude of back, neck, shoulder, spine, hip, and wrist problems. Muscle groups, in all of these areas, respond with tension and a variety of long-term problems – if they are ignored by office workers and management.

Forty years ago, secretaries would have been patronized for their migraines, cluster headaches, back pain, hip problems, and sore necks. Now, times are changing, and there has been much progress with ergonomics and studies which reveal new insights about the relationship of prolonged sitting to specific health problems.

A recent study, by The Medical Research Institute, in New Zealand, has revealed that office workers may be at a higher risk of developing blood clots. As most of us know, these studies are worded very tactfully, and do not jump to conclusions; however, anyone who understands body mechanics would realize that this makes perfect sense.

With that said, let’s remember that blood clots can be potentially fatal as they travel to the heart and vital organs. Blood clots can, and do, cause stroke, chest pain, and heart attack.

With larger numbers of office workers putting in extra hours of work, some “forward thinking” companies have begun to respond with office Yoga programs for their employees. Even short Office Yoga sessions can release muscle tension and alleviate the routine pains and aches, which result from prolonged sitting.

Therefore, companies, which take pro-active measures, by installing Office Yoga programs, are taking positive action toward health solutions for employees – thus, increasing productivity, while decreasing sick time, tardiness, and medical leave.

Office Yoga creates an atmosphere of decreased anxiety, less stress, positive thinking, and raises morale. Nothing is more rewarding than feeling worthy and being treated with respect. Any small company can take such action by installing an Office Yoga program.

Some companies pay a percentage for a Yoga teacher to operate an Office Yoga class, while employees pay the balance. Other companies see this as a “win-win” situation and pay for the Yoga classes in full. Regardless of how an Office Yoga program is paid for, the benefits for the corporate sector are just starting to be realized.

Aura has Yoga instructors available to teach Office Yoga sessions at your work place in the Greater Attleboro area.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – May Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Regular Classes at Aura Wellness Center will be closed for the first two weeks of July 2007.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

As I continue to teach Yoga to residents of the Greater Attleboro and Providence areas; it is apparent that many people are actively searching for a healthy mindset, fitness, guidance, holistic health, self-improvement, and success in life.

Yoga can deliver all of these, and you might find all of this “under one roof.” The reason is that there are many kinds of Yoga, and some ashrams, or Yoga schools, will address some of the above-mentioned needs as priorities.

Do you ever wonder why some people are so successful in life?

I am not talking about someone who has “everything handed to them.” What I am referring to is someone who has taken the time to know what they want from life, pursues it, and then attains it. This comes from self-analysis, meditation, and goal setting skills.

Do not confuse yourself with someone else’s dreams or expectations of you. You must know your particular strengths, weaknesses, passions, and desires to move forward in your Yoga practice. Remember when you were a child and adults asked you, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

If you are still not sure, you should compile a list of ideas. Here are some things to consider when deciding, “How to find myself” and “Where to go from here.”

What is your concept of happiness?

Please be honest with yourself and go after your dreams. You cannot abandon responsibility, but you can make small changes in your lifestyle. Wake up each day and pursue your goals with happiness in your heart.

What are your real passions, obsessions, and desires?

These are ideas you think about all the time. Listen to your heart; the answers are within. They should not cause harm to anyone and should be morally sound. Whatever they are, they will keep you going when you have any doubts. This is your fuel for daily motivation.

What does any of this have to do with Yoga?

Everything – Yoga is a daily path of self-discovery, self-improvement, and self-realization. Yoga literally means “Unity,” and applies to all things. If you know yourself, you can help yourself. Help usually starts from within. Most of us have to ask for help, and you must know when, and who, to ask.

Seek and find the Yoga that will help you find yourself. Yoga’s many branches are over 5,000 years old. They are the origin of many self-improvement and health maintenance systems. Achievement is realized by habits. You alone, have the power to create or change your habits.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – May Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Regular Classes at Aura Wellness Center will be closed for the first two weeks of July 2007.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga practice “should” be easy for everyone to understand. In Borders, or Barnes & Noble, there are so many Yoga books, containing detailed, full color pictures and loaded with valuable content.

In the 21st century, it is easy to find audio books, DVD’s, and various video formats made by world famous Yoga Master teachers. Yoga sessions have changed from small classes, in a Yoga teacher’s home, to gymnasiums and studios full of eager Yoga students.

This is a good thing for you – So who needs a private lesson when you can buy a Yoga video and learn from the masters? Learning Yoga should be a “piece of cake,” right? Wrong; as a matter of fact – Painfully wrong.

Yoga DVD’s and videos are great learning tools for “Yoga Teachers.” Sometimes, we use them at our Yoga teacher training workshops in Attleboro, but we stop the film at certain points and cover intricate techniques in detail. We also cover points that are often missing within the Yoga video. This gives a Yoga teacher, or an intern, a more complete understanding of the subject covered.

On more than one occasion, we have had a new Yoga student join our Attleboro studio because he or she was injured while practicing Hatha Yoga, with a video, at home. How is that possible? It is as simple as watching the television and cranking your neck to the side while practicing a Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana ) or Plow (Halasana).

Why would someone do that? Someone who is new to Hatha Yoga, and has had no formal guidance from a Yoga instructor, does not know better. Hatha Yoga is a safe practice, if you develop a foundation of knowledge by coming to Yoga classes and learning from a competent Yoga teacher.

If you live in the greater Attleboro, MA, or Providence, RI area, feel free to schedule a private Yoga lesson with us. Marie also teaches private Pilates mat sessions.

If there is no Yoga teacher in your nearby area, use a Yoga DVD or video, with safety in mind. Please watch the Yoga practice at least one time, completely, so that when you physically participate, you do not injure yourself. You should take notes and develop a safe practice, based on the easiest postures you see.

When you start to develop a Yoga home practice, never force your body into a Yoga posture. Always stay in the “comfort zone” and play it safe. In your spare time, read about contraindications for Yoga postures. This will help you expand your knowledge of Yoga and stay safe.

If you do have a Yoga teacher nearby, and get injured because you did not visit a class, or set up a private lesson – Shame on you. Whenever, you take a private lesson with a Yoga teacher, ask questions. Safety and information are what you are paying a Yoga instructor for.

If you are new to Yoga, and have a health condition, it would be wise to inform your teacher. It would also be in your best interest to take a private Yoga session. In the case of pregnancy, you should seek out a certified Prenatal Yoga instructor, if approved by your physician.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – May Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Yoga Teacher Training Workshop: Anatomy of Yoga meets April 20, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: $60

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Many of us need time to “find ourselves,” and some of us never do. How can Yoga help a “lost soul?” Can Yoga really be a guide to better mental health? Where do you start to “pick up the pieces” and practice Yoga for self-reconciliation?

Judging by the number of social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, who take Yoga teacher certification courses, the public at large is dealing with the mental healing aspects of Yoga already. Yoga offers a chemical free form of relief for mental anguish and is a reliable alternative therapy.

This is not to claim that Yoga is going to be a miracle cure for depression, but Yoga practice has no harmful side effects when practiced safely. This is why you should consider taking a Yoga class, with a Yoga teacher, at our downtown Attleboro location.

Your Yoga teacher is a knowledgeable guide to many avenues of health. A Yoga teacher is not just another exercise instructor, but someone who has in depth knowledge of holistic health.

What about mental and spiritual health? How can you learn about this aspect of Yoga? Many Yoga studios do not have classes for this need. This is why you have to shop around, and you may only be able to get private sessions for this type of Yoga training or Yoga therapy.

Private Yoga sessions are available at Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro.

Why is this type of Yoga so hard to find, anywhere else? Yoga has been introduced on a massive scale to cultures who measure everything for results, pounds, inches, and calories. This mind-set has made Power Yoga and Hot Yoga popular, even when middle-aged and inactive students should be more cautious.

How do you calculate mental or spiritual health? The truth is – these two aspects of heath are just as important as physical health. It is easy to spot a person who has a severe mental illness, but you would be “hard pressed” to notice milder forms. Yoga can be an aid to many of the mild forms of mental illness and attention disorders that affect our society today.

At some point in life, we may all feel a little down, but severe depression is a serious condition and can lead to many other mental and physical problems. Depression can also lead to premature death.

Therefore, if you are feeling chronic depression, seek out a professional counselor, doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist. Friends and family will help, but only you know how much pain you really feel. One last thought: Pain cannot be calculated by using a measuring tape.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – April Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Yoga Teacher Training Workshop: Anatomy of Yoga meets April 20, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: $60

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga classes in Attleboro have many options for ridding your body of toxins, negative energy, stress, and daily anxiety. Yoga postures (Asanas) are most commonly known, but Yoga breathing techniques (Pranayama) are very beneficial; most can be practiced any time of the day.

The worst action you can take is to ignore anxiety. Anxiety requires a plan of action to instill positive energy within your being. If your plan of action is to take a Yoga lesson, you are “on the right path” to eliminating negative feelings.

Anxiety can lead to a multitude of health problems. Therefore, you should take action to rid your body, mind, and spirit of negative feelings, which build up from within or are a result of your environment. Within a typical Hatha Yoga class, you will learn Asana, Pranayama, and some form of meditation.

The combination of these three methods, within the span of 45 to 90 minutes, occurs in one Yoga lesson. Yoga students often practice at home, but the “home Yoga sessions” are usually much shorter.

This is fine because a little Yoga is better than no Yoga at all; especially, in the case of a person who experiences anxiety. One short Yoga session can help the mind and body lose feelings of negativity. Yet, it may require a longer session to give you relief, if negative energy is “getting out of hand.”

The study of Yoga requires your commitment to make a personal appointment with yourself. Do you have the time to take care of your health? This requires pro-active thinking on your part, because most of the world reacts to health problems.

Setting a time of the day for a Yoga lesson, at a studio, or a Yoga home practice session, is not difficult. Yet, there are other ways to practice Yoga off your mat and say “goodbye” to anxiety at the same time.

Here’s another option: Go for a 20 to 40 minute walk. You can practice the natural breath technique (belly breath), Dhirga Pranayama (Three part breath), or a walking meditation.

The Attleboro River Walk, Capron Park, Attleboro High School Track, and La Salette Shrine, are good local places to walk your troubles away.

If the weather is rough, you can always go to an indoor facility, or The Emerald Square Mall. If you are walking in downtown Attleboro, feel free to visit us at 21 Park Street, Suite 202. It does wonders for your body, and mind, to get out and stop thinking about regrets. We must all learn to put the past behind, forgive ourselves, do our best for now, and plan for a bright future.

Yoga has a number of options for a public, which seeks relief from daily anxiety and stress. Yoga can be considered part of a coping strategy, but in the case of severe anxiety and depression, professional medical or psychological help should be sought.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – April Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our May 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Yoga Teacher Training Workshop: Anatomy of Yoga meets April 20, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: $60

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Training: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Pranayama is a wonderful method to reduce anxiety. Pranayama originates from two Sanskrit words, “Prana,” which means universal energy, and “Yama,” which means restraint.

In effect, Pranayama is the cultivation of universal energy through breath. You have the ability, within your being, to make sure the energy you cultivate is positive, with the help of Pranayama and a positive mental attitude.

There are many methods for the cultivation of Prana to choose from, but let’s start with a deep natural breath. This is the “breath of infants.” When you watch a baby in the crib, notice how the stomach rises as he or she inhales. Then notice that the navel draws to the spine on an exhale.

This is “natural breath,” but this can often feel unnatural to adults, who have unconsciously been practicing a “half breath” from the diaphragm to the nose or mouth. The half breath does not allow for complete expansion at the bottom of the lungs.

In effect, the half breath method would not be good for Yoga students, who have high blood pressure. Natural breath has wonderful blood pressure benefits, but could not be considered a cure. Why not?

Most people, who learn the natural breathing technique, will not be able to instill this Pranayama method as a regular daily habit; let alone practice it all day, and every day – especially, if the Yoga student in question has a life full of stress.

So, how many times should someone practice natural breath to reduce anxiety? To achieve tranquility, natural breath should be practiced every day, at least eight times per day for 3 to 5 minute sessions. This should yield optimum results within a week, but it must become a habit.

Another way to cultivate positive energy is to reverse the, “Why me,” mindset; how many times have you heard somebody say – “Why me?”

Let’s take a close look at “Why me,” and put a positive “spin” on it. Why are we so lucky? Why do we have Internet access? Why do we live at a time, so full of opportunities?

Many of the most optimistic people, I know, are my Chair Yoga students from within the Providence, Rhode Island area and in the Greater Attleboro, Massachusetts area.

Some of these Yoga students have ailments, diseases, and health conditions such as: Cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, high blood pressure, Parkinson’s, Frederick’s Ataxia Syndrome, and a variety of heart problems.

To practice any form of Yoga, with such grace, and to the best of your ability, is a monumental task. When I hear anyone, who can walk, or easily stand on two feet, make statements such as, “Life isn’t fair” and “I don’t have enough time to take care of my health” – it reminds me of Russell Conwell’s book, “Acres of Diamonds.”

In a “nutshell,” most people do not see how truly lucky they are. Life’s treasures are right under our noses. Those who have faced major obstacles in life are the greatest mentors, guides, and teachers any one of us could ever have.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – April Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our April 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
*Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

*Saturday Yoga / Pilates class will end on May 19, 2007 for the Summer Schedule.

Yoga Teacher Training Workshop: Anatomy of Yoga meets April 20, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: $60

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Training: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Do you think holding Asanas (Yoga poses) is boring? I’m looking for the few, the proud, the fit, in Attleboro, who want a challenging Yoga class.

Vinyasa Yoga could be defined as a sequence of movements, which connect asanas (Yoga Postures), while at the same time, they connect inhalations and exhalations. Some Yoga practitioners say Vinyasa Yoga is no different from its American cousin: Power Yoga.

Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word, which refers to breath and movement. For example, in vigorous Vinyasa classes, each Yoga posture is matched by one breath. This is what you do when you perform Sun or Moon salutations, and these are also a form of Vinyasa Yoga.

Therefore, any sequences of postures, which are synchronized with your breath, are classified as Vinyasa. There are many forms of Vinyasa, and even the gentle ones are vigorous. The postures are not held in a fixed position for long, and classes flow with rhythm, similar to music.

The energy used in flowing, from one movement to the next, continues throughout a typical Vinyasa Yoga class. This type of Yoga class will challenge aerobic endurance, enhance flexibility, and build overall strength.

There are many variations of Vinyasa Yoga classes. Some are related to, or offshoots of, Ashtanga Yoga; some are very gentle, and others are variations of extended Sun or Moon sequences.

The variety of Vinyasa classes is further expanded when you consider different sequences, pace of the class, and the temperature of the room.

What about heated Vinyasa Yoga classes in Attleboro; is this hot Yoga? The temperature can vary depending upon the policy of the Yoga studio.

At Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro, MA, on 21 Park Street, Suite 202, the temperature can be 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit during winter months. During the summer months, we keep the temperature in the 70’s.

This is much different from the 105-degree hot Yoga or Bikram classes, but Vinyasa classes in Attleboro are definitely warm.

Most of the heat, generated in a typical Vinyasa class, is internal body heat. As a result of all this internal heat, you will most likely sweat. Therefore, bring a towel and a bottle of good quality water.

Classes meet on Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM, for Vinyasa Yoga.

When you practice Vinyasa for personal health maintenance, Vinyasa Yoga is the ultimate cross training system, with low impact movement, aerobic, and muscle toning benefits.

Your body will go through an incredible physical transformation, but it does require determination. Vinyasa Yoga classes, at the Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, have been compared to Boot Camp Yoga.

We don’t want to scare you away because a “by product” of Vinyasa practice is improved self-esteem and complete fitness. You will manage stress and develop a much calmer personality.

If you are physically active, you may want to jump right in. You should have an honest talk with a teacher at our Attleboro Yoga studio, before starting your Vinyasa practice.

It’s always best to be honest with yourself, about your level of fitness. Have fun, but do not push yourself when you are in unfamiliar territory.

Are you up for a Attleboro Yoga challenge? Take a Vinyasa Yoga class, in Attleboro, to get your body ready for the summer.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – April Schedule
——————————————–

Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our April 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
*Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

*Saturday Yoga / Pilates class will end on May 19, 2007 for the Summer Schedule.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

——————————————–
Attleboro Yoga Training: http://www.riyoga.com
——————————————–

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

The study of Jnana Yoga (Union by Knowledge) has a noble purpose. This purpose is the quest for truth, and sometimes, illusion blocks our view. We perceive one thing, but reality is much different.

History is full of Yogis with fantastic experience and insight, but the senses “play tricks” on many of us.

Ancient man spent centuries carefully observing nature and the universe, but how long did it take for an educated man to notice that the earth rotates and the Sun does not really rise?

Humankind is programmed to observe everything with a conditioned mind. We try to open our minds, but we cannot help it when our opinions are based on past experiences and teachings. We cannot throw our education “out the window,” when we observe anything.

However, making a statement, such as: The universe is in constant motion, the earth is not the center of the universe, everything is subject to constant change, and evolution can be proven by observing nature – would have resulted in my execution just a few centuries ago.

Consider this: When you enter a Yoga session, whether you are a Yoga teacher or the student, the lesson plan should be subject to change. Yoga is constantly changing, so there is no fixed set of rules.

For example: Neck rotations, with the head tilted back, have been a traditional practice in Hatha Yoga and martial arts, but the cervical spine is not a “ball and socket” joint.

We now know that neck rotations will cause too much friction and will cause premature wear in the cervical spine. We also know that doing this same movement, with the head tilted back, compounds a bad situation. Lastly, hyperextension of the neck, by tilting the head back too far, is dangerous.

If you look at the research from sports medicine and physical therapy, you will see that these conclusions are correct.

Please bear in mind that this is only one small aspect of Hatha Yoga. Yet, you will see Yoga students practice neck circles under the guidance of a trained Yoga teacher for decades to come.

Why? The answer is: “My Yoga teacher taught me neck circles, his Yoga teacher taught him neck circles, and this is the way it has been since the beginning.”

We must expel our preconceived notions and practice non-judgement, when we research Yoga. This also applies to life. How many of us have thought harshly of someone because of their initial appearance – only to discover this same person is true, kind, and of noble character?

It is a struggle to sort out the illusions in this life, but daily practice of Jnana Yoga will help you.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes – April Schedule
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Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro will be closed for the Easter Holiday Weekend.

Below is our April 2007 – Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
*Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

*Saturday Yoga / Pilates class will end on May 19, 2007 for the Summer Schedule.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

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Attleboro Yoga Training: http://www.riyoga.com
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