Archive for May, 2008

Written By Sarah Russell

If you’re practicing yoga, understanding and applying techniques properly is very important. Yoga can be an important part of an overall campaign to improve your health, since exercise is a big part of preventing disease and staying healthy. It’s one of the most effective methods, since it puts little strain on the body, and provides many other health benefits. It’s also easy to practice yoga wherever you are, since it requires no special equipment. You can do it at home or away, at whatever time you choose. Many people prefer yoga as their method for living a healthy, happy life.

Yoga can help you maintain good internal health, including good circulation, healthy organs, glands and other tissues, as well as providing strength and flexibility to muscles, connective tissue and joints. It’s also been said to help relieve stress and improve concentration. Many people also use yoga as a way to attain spiritual fulfillment.

There are plenty of yoga techniques available. However, there are a few that are very effective, no matter where you are or when you’d like to practice. Here are five basic yoga techniques that form the foundation of many others. They are: relaxation, posture, meditation, joint movement, and deep breathing. Every technique performs its own function in concert with the others, to produce the desired effect.

In Sanskrit, the movement of the joints is referred to as “sandhichalana”. This yoga technique, as the name implies, focuses on the joints, which undergo full movements. It’s important to remember that this applies to all joints, from the hands to the neck and lower limbs.

Relaxation is composed of a number of other yoga techniques to help you improve your concentration, allowing you to focus your attention more effectively. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety. For instance, the Hong-Sau is a technique meant to help focus your latent powers of concentration, and to develop your Divine Consciousness. The familiar Aum technique uses simple repetitive sounds to expand awareness beyond the body’s limitations. It can help you stay in a meditative state for longer periods, and is said to open the practitioner to experiences of the Divine.

Remember that not all yoga techniques are suitable for the beginner. If you’re just starting out, you may have trouble with some advanced poses. Talk to your instructor, or try modifying them to make them easier to do. Be sure to stay aware of your body, and figure out what feels right and what makes you feel tense or in pain. Try to release tension, and allow calm relaxation to take over.

Remember that one of the main objectives of yoga is creating a satisfying feeling of relaxation. It’s important to find out how to effectively release your tension, allowing you to feel better and to be healthier. The help of a good yoga instructor can help you do this more effectively, and with less trial and error. Then, once you’ve mastered the basic yoga techniques, you’ll have no problem going on to practice on your own.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell’s new book – The Beginner’s Guide to Yoga and Meditation – at:

http://www.Mind-Body-Connection.com

Written By Sarah Russell

If you’re just beginning your yoga practice, don’t be frustrated if you aren’t as strong or as flexible as the more advanced students. This type of flexibility is developed over time with continued yoga practice. If you’re having trouble completing some of the poses, consider using props to help you reach the correct position. Using yoga props helps support the muscles and minimize strain so that you can continue practicing without injuring yourself.

Yoga props can also help elderly people and those with medical ailments to exceed their limitations, providing support and enabling them to perform the poses they would not normal be able to do. Of course, you don’t need to invest in any expensive equipment to practice yoga – you can do it naked in your living room without any fancy gear. However, if you’re just getting started, these props can make your yoga practice much more enjoyable and rewarding.

Mats: The yoga mat is one of the most important yoga props. Yoga mats are also called sticky mats – and that’s what they do! When used on a hard floor surface, the mat will stay in place, giving you the traction you need to perform the poses. Even when you start to get sweaty, your hands and feet won’t slip. The mat also gives your knees a little cushion when you’re kneeling on a hard surface.

Mats aren’t expensive – you can pick up a good one for under $30 and it’ll last a long time. If you’re just starting at a gym, they’ll probably have some that you can borrow. However, out of hygienic concerns, get your own and bring it with you. You don’t know who used that mat before you!

Blankets: Some studios will provide blankets for students to use during practice. If you’re having trouble performing some seated poses, you can fold them up and sit on them, changing the angle of the pose and improving alignment. They’re also great for covering yourself up during the final corpse pose – you’ll be so much more relaxed when you’re warm and toasty under your blanket.

Straps and Blocks: Yoga straps and blocks are also handy tools to have when you’re just starting out. Both can be used to modify poses to make them easier if you aren’t that flexible yet. If you’re taking an introductory class, ask the teacher to help you use them throughout the class. He or she will be able to recommend the best way to modify poses with these props.

Attire: You might not think of your workout clothes as props, but what you wear can have a huge impact on how well you practice. You don’t need to invest in a certain brand or specific article of clothing, but you should make sure that your attire is comfortable and breathable. Women, also consider a form-fitted top for yoga practice. Sometimes your head ends up lower than your hips which can cause your top to slide down.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell’s new book – The Beginner’s Guide to Yoga and Meditation – at:

http://www.Mind-Body-Connection.com

Written By Tania Bloch

Yoga is a unified approach to self-development which is designed to balance and harmonize physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and well-being. While some practitioners of Yoga display extreme flexibility, the heart of Yoga is less dramatic and can be practiced by people of all ages and all levels. Yoga has its roots in the Hindu culture of India. However, the practice of Yoga is nonsectarian promoting health and harmonious living. The word “Yoga” means to join together” or “unite”. Thus, Yoga is a process of integrating and balancing body, mind and spirit. Many of us live in a disjointed manner as our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs struggle with each other creating frustration and confusion rather than fulfillment.

To achieve this union, Yoga combines physical postures, movements, mental concentration, deep breathing, meditation, relaxation and good nutrition. In practicing Yoga, the body is consciously moved with utmost care into various specific poses (asanas) accompanied by deep rhythmic breathing. The word “asana” comes from a word that means “easy”. The purpose of the posture is to bring you to “ease” in your body through a combination of stretching, holding, breathing, balance, resistance and mindfulness.

Various poses may help reduce and in some cases relieve various physical symptoms. These symptoms include arthritis, asthma, breathing disorders, back/neck problems, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, headaches, heart disease, infertility, insomnia, pain, PMS, menopause and weight management.

Yoga benefits both the external and internal physical body. Muscles develop tone and strength while flexibility, balance, coordination and energy levels are increased. Glands, nerves, tissues, internal organs and the nervous system are affected in a positive and healthy manner.

One of the muscles Yoga benefits is the heart. Increasing blood volume through the heart reduces blood pressure. Typically in the West we increase blood flow through aerobic exercise. However, certain inverted postures e.g. shoulder stands, and headstands cause more blood to pass through the heart when upside down. Other postures use and squeeze the muscles by crossing the legs, arching the back, kneeling and twisting. Using muscles in this manner demands oxygen from the blood and circulatory system. Yoga improves blood circulation bringing more oxygen and nutrients to every cell, tissue and organ. Poor circulation leads to under-oxygenated, malnourished, polluted cells and as a result poor organ function.

The poses, accompanied by deep breathing, stimulates regeneration and rejuvenation retarding the aging process. The manner in which these movements are performed is an essential element. Yoga is never goal-oriented, forceful, judgmental or competitive but rather a process or life-long journey. In essence, Yoga is a positive approach leading to enhanced fulfillment, self-awareness, peace and quality of life.

http://www.beeunlimitedyoga.com

Tania Bloch, M.A. / C.Y.T

The Aura Yoga Teacher Training is currently finishing up at our Attleboro, MA facility, located at 21 Park Street, Suite 202, in downtown Attleboro.

Experienced Yoga teachers, Yoga teacher interns, and serious students, may attend any Yoga teacher workshops.

Fall 2008 – Spring 2009

Our next on-site Yoga teacher certification course begins on September 5, 2008. Candidates should have, at least, two years of steady training in Aura’s Restorative Hatha Yoga Style or comparable training within a similar style.

Restorative Yoga is a gentle style that fits the needs of everyone. Client safety is our number one concern.

We meet the 200 hour Yoga Teacher requirements, and contact hour guidelines, set by Yoga Alliance. The teacher trainer is Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500.

Yoga Teacher Training classes meet on Fridays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You should make a commitment to be at all of the teacher training classes and go through an internship. Level I Yoga teacher training is based on 200 hours of intensive study within the many aspects of Hatha Yoga.

Some flexibility can be built into your Yoga Teacher internship, based upon hours with your mentor and teaching Yoga classes. We will cover this on orientation night or you can call ahead. Telephone 508-222-0092.

This Yoga certification program includes hands-on development with Paul Jerard, the director of Yoga teacher training, independent research, and the home-study of teacher texts. We adhere to the International standards for Yoga teacher training hours.

All Yoga teacher training sessions are held with Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500.

Yoga Instructor Technical Training

Eighteen (18) intensive sessions
Eighteen (18) more hands-on classes to develop your teaching skills
Guidance during your internship
Practical Exam
Written Exam
Syllabus
Kriyas
Asanas
Modifications for Asanas
Yoga philosophy & Yoga Teaching Methodology
Assisting with Asana alignment
Working with special populations
Chair Yoga & Office Yoga
Yoga for Seniors & Yoga as Therapy
Using Yoga Props
The Pilates Connection to Yoga
Yoga Teaching Tips
Yoga Business Development
Yoga Teacher Marketing
Networking with Yoga Teachers
Anatomy
Kinesiology
Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga
Communication with Yoga Students
Chakras
Bandhas
Mudras
Yamas, Niyamas, and Yoga Sutras
Pranayama Methods
Meditation Methods
Relaxation Techniques
Yoga teacher Ethics
Benefits of Teacher’s Training
Continued Technical Support
Certification
AURA Teachers Training Materials worth $497.00
Three Teacher Texts
Free Liability Insurance for classes you teach at AURA
Job placement, as it becomes available
Many more Free Yoga Teacher Handouts
Business & Marketing Materials

In 2007: This training was sold out by July.

Total Cost (Due at Time of Registration):
Early Bird Pre-registration by June 1, 2008 for only: $2000
Pre-register by July 1, 2008 for only: $2100
Pre-register by August 1, 2008 for only: $2200
If space is available, at the door: $2300.
Installment plan will be scheduled as follows:

$600 down payment
$600 due October 7, 2008
$600 due November 7, 2008
$600 due December 7, 2008

To receive an application, to attend your Teacher Training Course, please contact us.

This is the most reasonably priced, and comprehensive Yoga Teacher Training Program, in the area. Space is limited to 12 candidates.

Written By Liza Othman

The Yogis say that prana circulates through the human body via a network of special channels called nadis, roughly equivalent to our network of nerves and blood vessels. The nadis, in turn, are governed by seven chakras, or wheels, which roughly are the astral counterparts of our anatomic plexuses. The three main nadis are called Ida, Pingala and Shushamna. Shushamna corresponds to the spinal cord, while Ida and Pingala are represented as two inter-circling snakes on either side of it and may be identified with the sympathetic nervous system.

Of the chakras, the lowest, Muladhara, is situated at the base of the spine, corresponding to the sacral plexus. At the physical level it is said to control the process of elimination. But it is also a most important center for controlling the dormant energy called Kundalini, or the Serpent Power. This, when released, brings with it among other things the knowledge of good and evil.

In modern Western terms Kundalini may be said to control the deepest aspects of the personality, most especially the subconscious. Probably the closest analogy in terms of our own concepts would be that what Freud calls the libido man’s deepest sex drive which, sublimated, translates itself into the source of all creative, emotional and spiritual drives.

The second chakra, Svadishthana, situated in the region of the genitals, is said to control overt sexual desire. Next comes Manipura, which corresponds to the solar plexus, with control over the digestive processes. This is the “stomach brain,” our powerhouse of stored-up energy in many ways connected with all manner of physical reactions and emotions.

The fourth chakra, Anahat, at heart level, corresponds to the cardiac plexus, which controls breathing. The fifth is the Visuadha, behind the throat, which controls speech. The sixth, Ajna, located between the eyebrows, supposedly controls the autonomous nervous system and is said to be the seat of the mystical “third eye” which accounts for the clairvoyance claimed by some Yogis.

Finally there is Sahasrara chakra, called also the Thousand-Petalled Lotus, which corresponds to the cortical layer of the brain. Of this chakra it is said that here Kundalini joins her Lord, Vishnu, as matter ascends to the spirit and the gross in the human body merges with what is most lofty.

The mystical ramifications of this concept need not concern us here, but whatever the differences between prana and oxygen, one thing is certain: the practice of pranayama even if you are determined to call it simply proper breathing – produces immediate beneficial results. In short order the student begins to experience lightness of body, an absence of restlessness, better digestion due to an increase in the flow of the gastric juices, clearing and smoothing of the skin.

The physiological benefits we have already explained – now let the student discover for himself how quickly these will come to him once he establishes a daily routine of exercises. As for the spiritual well-being that will follow – the inner lightness, the serenity – it matters little whether you attribute them to oxygen burning out the wastes and poisons in your grey matter or to more subtle influences. The important thing is that it is all yours to enjoy at will.

And now for method:

Except for certain exercises which specify otherwise, breathing, as you now know, should always be through the nose. It should also be rhythmic. A long inhalation, a short pause while holding the breath, then a long exhalation is the basic pattern to follow. But on no account must you make hard work of it or overdo it. Strain destroys the benefits of the exercise. And regardless of what you may have heard about suspension of breath practiced by some Yogis, this is nothing for a neophyte to experiment with. In fact, it might be harmful. So the moment you feel the least bit queer when practicing Yogic breathing, stop.

This deep rhythmic breathing, for which a few simple exercises follow, is not to be confused with the kind of effortless dynamic breathing which you should also learn, then assimilate so completely that you will be doing it unconsciously all the time. Most of us breathe in short staccato jerks, shallowly, aimlessly. If for a while you take time to watch yourself, if you train yourself to breathe more slowly and more deeply, though without the pause between inhalation and exhalation as recommended for special exercises, the new rhythm will shortly become automatic. From about fifteen breaths a minute – or 21,600 each twenty-four hours – you will have reduced your tempo by possibly three breaths a minute, which is twenty percent, or 4,320 per day. Such a slowing-down means a corresponding easing of the wear-and-tear on the entire body – less work for the heart, lower blood pressure, a relaxation of body tensions, and quieter nerves – in short, still another way to lengthen the years of your life and make them enjoyable!

Of all the Yoga exercises and poses, the breathing routines are done with least effort. They take very little time and may be done anywhere, just as effortless Dynamic Breathing may be practiced while you go out for a walk or sit in an easy chair to rest. Under no circumstances omit your deep breathing, regardless of how crowded your schedule or how long your day.

The following deep-breathing exercises are most effective if done upon arising. They are best performed before an open window but may also be practiced before going to bed or even sometime during the day.

Stand erect and at ease. Place the hands on the hips, elbows well out and never forced backward. Draw the chest straight upward, then press the hip bones with the hands in a downward direction. By this means a vacuum will be formed and air will rush into the lungs of its own accord.

Remember to keep the nostrils wide open so that the nose may serve as a passive channel for inhaling and exhaling. The breathing should be noiseless. Remember to stretch the upper part of the trunk. The chest must never be cramped, the abdomen should be naturally relaxed, the spine and neck straight. Remember not to draw the abdomen inward; lift the shoulders up, never force them back.

To exhale, allow the ribs of the upper part of the trunk to sink down gradually. Then lift the lower ribs and abdomen slowly. Again, care must be taken not to bend the body or arch the chest. Exhale silently through the mouth. At first do not retain the breath after inhalation. Start with three or four rounds a day; increase by one each week.

An excellent way to practice pranayama is lying down. Lie flat on a hard surface – preferably on the floor, using a mat or rug. Let your arms rest by your sides, parallel to the body. Keep the legs straight but not stiff. Relax muscles and mind, step by step, as in Savasana, the exercise for complete relaxation. Breathe deeply and noiselessly from the diaphragm. Start with three or four rounds a day, increasing by one round each week. This exercise may be done in conjunction with complete relaxation, but do not substitute one for the other. Also, do not try to use a bed unless it is an exceptionally hard one, since relaxing on a hard surface is by far the most effective method.

More information about how yoga can improve your health and life is available at http://Yoga.FunHowToBooks.com/

Written By Angela Blake

Yoga has many benefits. A regular program of yoga can help keep your spine supple, your core strong, and help you maintain balance and poise. It also tones your muscles, helps strengthen your immune system, and boosts your metabolism. However, yoga alone cannot help you lose large amounts of weight. It is, however, a good idea to add it to any healthy living plan.

Yoga will help you feel better about yourself and is a great confidence booster. Many find yoga is an island of calm in an otherwise hectic world. While not all yoga is aerobic, there are some types of yoga that can substitute for aerobic activity. Using yoga to lose weight all depends on the type you do and how frequently you do it. You should opt to engage in 90 minutes of aerobic style yoga three or more times per week, and if you add in another style of yoga the remaining days per week you can gain all the benefits of most other types of physical activity such as weight or strength training and flexibility.

In order to lose weight and keep it off you need to effect lasting changes in your lifestyle permanently. Doing this requires incorporating 5 key elements into your lifestyle. These are adequate rest, drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, proper types of exercise, and caring for yourself emotionally. Yoga can help with the exercise and emotional elements. So what is yoga?

Hatha Yoga: Exercise for the Mind & Spirit

Yoga is based on eight principles as a study of all religions. It is not of itself a religion. One of the eight studies deals with physical training and keeping the body in good working order. When people in the west think about yoga, it is the branch of Hatha Yoga they have in mind. Hatha Yoga itself has many branches or types of physical training systems developed over many years that are all based on the same physical postures or poses. Here are just a few:

• Hatha: while this is the yoga branch that deals with physical yoga, here in the west a class that is called Hatha generally means it will be slow and gentle and thus provide a good introduction for beginners to learn the yoga poses.

• Vinyasa: this may also be called sun salutations or breath-synchronized movement. It is just slightly more vigorous than Hatha. Some places use this as a warm up before other more vigorous types of yoga begin.

• Ashtanga & Power Yoga: Ashtanga means eight limbs and is based on the whole philosophy of yoga. It is a very fast paced type of yoga that is always performed in the same order. It flows and moved without pauses. Power yoga is usually based on Ashtanga, but not always, though it usually is the inspiration for power yoga.

• Iyengar: this is based on the teachings of Yogi B.K.S. Iyengar which is based on an emphasis of body alignment. Precise alignment is effective to maximize benefits and avoid injury. In this type of exercise you usually hold each pose over long periods of time rather than moving quickly form one to the next. You usually will use props such as blankets, blocks, and straps.

• Kundalini: this emphasizes breath in conjunction with movement. Combining movement with controlled breath is meant to move and free energy within the chakras or body systems. This type of yoga can be very helpful to encourage regulation with the digestion and adrenal systems.

• Bikram or Hot Yoga: be prepared to spend time in a hot room that is usually around 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This type of yoga is useful for detoxing though profuse sweating and loosening tight muscles. The original Bikram was based on 26 poses. But not all classes follow this.

• Anusara: this relatively new style of yoga founded in 1977 by a man named John Friend combines physical alignment with positive energy derived from tantra. The philosophy here is the goodness of all beings. Props are also often used in this class which is generally open to people of all levels of fitness and abilities.

• Jivanukti: David life and Sharon Gannon founded this style in New York at one of the most elite Yoga Studios. It is inspired by Ashtanga and strongly emphasizes chanting, meditation, and spirituality. Most teachers of yoga in the United States have been trained by them.

• Forrest: Originated by Anna Forrest in California and is based on vigorous Asana poses. It is designed to strengthen, purify, release, and heal the body and promote healing form within both physically and emotionally. You can expect intense aerobic exercise that helps develop your core and expand your breathing ability.

• Integral: based on the teachings of Yogi Sri Swami Sachinananda who came to the US in the 1960’s. He founded many Institutes that use gentle Hatha practice along with chanting and mediation. You can find books also based on this such as Richard Hittlemans 28 day exercise plan which help newbie’s and beginners to receive maximum benefits and results through daily practice in their first month.

Yoga is generally based on 5 general principles Proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking. By incorporating aerobic Yoga or other aerobic exercise for 90 minutes per session 3 or more times per week along with yoga on most other days per week in to your exercise plan you can expect to see results n your first 4 to 6 weeks. The trick is to stick with it and make a real effort for consistency. Yoga along with rest, water, sleep, and other lifestyle changes can help you lose weight and keep it off. Just remember to perform it daily and follow along with a book, video, or audio material if you opt to do it at home, especially if you are a beginner.

Yoga works by stimulating the adrenal systems and helping to clear out your lymph and immune system of toxins. The release of pent up energy, the effects of the calmness yoga emphasizes, and by performing both aerobic and stretching, Hatha type yoga, you can get you strength, flexibility, and aerobic exercise all jut by practicing the different types of yoga styles. You will firm and tone muscles, burn calories, and boost your immune system and metabolism. Other effects are long lasting, such as calmness, poise, and balance. Most yogis know that regular yoga produces a glow and vibrant energy that tends to draw like minded people to you. (Anyone who practices yoga regularly is considered a yogi.)

If you have ever wanted to lose weight you may have found the wide array of methods and ideologies confusing. You may have wondered if you could lose it by dieting, pills, exercise, or other drastic measure alone. The answer is no! Losing weight takes a determined effort, willingness and patience, and the process of trying and combining methods to achieve what works best for you personally. In addition to lifestyle habits, dietary changes, and following the 5 key principles of a good lifestyle, yoga can help you achieve your goals.

Angela Blake is owner of http://www.weight-loss-discovery.com and is a mother of two who is on a mission to lose weight in a healthy way while educating others along the way.

Written By Diane Blakemore

Yoga is an awesome way to take care of yourself. Anyone can benefit from the practice, but it is not one-size-fits-all. There are many styles, classes and teachers. The key is finding the one that fits you!

I have been teaching yoga for several years, and practicing for many years before. As a new student, it all seemed very confusing. Choosing a class is challenging if you don’t know the language. Many studios advertise teaching “hatha” yoga. Nearly all classes taught in the USA are hatha yoga. Hatha is simply the yoga of movement and postures. But within hatha yoga there are many styles. Some of the more common styles taught include:

Kundalini: An ancient practice, Kundalini builds energy in the body through chanting, meditation and kriyas (a predetermined set of movements for a given outcome). Kundalini is a very spiritual yoga.

Iyengar: A strict discipline, Iyengar focuses on alignment. Practitioners use props (blocks, straps, etc.) to assist in achieving the best form.

Ashtanga: The original “power yoga”, Ashtanga moves at a steady pace. Each movement is timed to the breath.

Anusara: The “feel good” yoga, Anusara allows freedom to be an individual. The postures are thought to conform to the body, not the body conforming to the posture.

Bikram: Also known as “hot yoga”, Bikram is practiced in rooms heated to 105F. 26 postures are repeated in the same order for every class.

Knowing the differences in the styles can assist you in choosing a class. But in all truth, most teachers have been exposed to more than one style. Combining the various styles along with their own personality, each teacher will create a unique experience. So, the best way to find your fit is to get out there and try one. If the class isn’t you, try another. With so many choices, you are sure to find a style, class, and teacher to fit you!

Diane Blakemore Certified Yoga Teacher http://JoinTogether.ws/wellness

Written By Kurt Tasche

Many people look at yoga and think it is a difficult thing to master. They envision Indian yogis twisting and contorting their bodies into almost pretzel like shapes. However, those who are able to perform these incredible feats of flexibility have been practicing yoga for many years. There are actually many yoga positions for beginners that are both beneficial to health and wellness, yet easy to perform.

First in our list of yoga positions for beginners is “tadasana” or “mountain position”.

To perform tadasana, stand erect with your feet together. Let the heels and the big toes touch each other. Keep the arms straight and well stretched, by the side, with the palms touching the thighs. Look straight. Raise your arms straight to the level of your shoulders, with the palms facing the floor and the fingers pointing forward. Twist your wrists, with the palms turned outwards. Interlock your fingers. Stretch your hands and further lift the arms towards the sky till they are in line with your legs. Raise your heels as much as you can. Stand on your toes, squeeze the thighs and lift the whole body upwards as much as you can. Feel the stretch. Breathe easily. Keep this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Then slowly come back to the original position.

Practicing this yoga position for beginners improves posture, increases height (as the spine becomes stronger and able to stay erect), makes the spine flexible and improves stability and balance. This asana is also great therapy to help cure back pain. If you are prone to restlessness, you may find it difficult to practice this asana, as you will need to remain in perfect posture, and on your toes, for up to one minute.

I will continue discussing other yoga positions for beginners in future articles.

Kurt Tasche is a certified yoga instructor, specializing in teaching yoga to beginners. Check out his blog at: http://www.budofit.com/yoga

Written By Bertil Hjert

Understanding yoga is not easy. In fact, anything that had been in existence for more than about thousands of years is not easy. The origins of this unique form of physical act or exercise are not very clear. However, experts feel that the origins of yoga were found either in ancient Egypt or ancient India.

As we all know, yoga has gained tremendous popularity since last few decades. The different types of postures of yoga have helped many people to promote healthy mind, body, and soul. It has been proved as an excellent means of relaxation, which proffers a sense of inner peace and balance.

These days, the art of yoga has become a never ending rage among youngsters, children and the old. With celebrities like Madonna embracing yoga for health benefits, the craze for this unique form of exercise is here to stay.

A) What is yoga?

Yoga involves a series of different postures in conjunction with stretches. This is practiced within a holistic mindset and deep concentration that results in emotional, spiritual mental, physical and health benefits.

Most people who have been practicing yoga for a long time have understood yoga as a form of meditation. The more one tends to practice this art, the more one feels enlightened and experience transforming effects. Yoga works towards gifting and developing an individual’s inner as well as outer personality. It also helps in transforming one into a good human.

B) Yoga as a way of life

Yoga can be understood as a lifestyle or a way of life. It is an art of righteous living. Experts would like to refer it as an effective system to benefit the body mind and inner spirit. This unique are was originated ancient years back.

You can find some excellent references to yoga in ‘Puranas’ and ‘Upanishads’. These were beautifully composed by Indian Aryans in the later vedic and post vedic period.

The principles of yoga were described in full fledged eight fold yogic discipline. This is explained by Patanjali in his ‘yoga sutra’. It was composed almost two thousand years ago! The eight important stages of yoga recommended by Patanjali are as follows:

These are the stages of yoga discipline:

a) Yamas – Restrains and abstentions

b) Asanas – Physical exercises or postures.

c) Pranayama – Total control over vital energy or breathing pattern.

d) Niyamas – Observances such as contentment, study, austerities, purity and surrender of the ego.

e) Dhyana – Meditation

f) Partyahara – Withdrawal of the senses.

g) Samadhi – Attainment of the super conscious state

h) Dharana – Contemplation or concentration of the mind.

C) Superb health benefits of yoga

There are several health benefits of practicing yoga.

a) Weight loss and Weight control

b) Enhances immune system and blood circulation in the body

c) Control over anxiety

d) Relief from asthma, multiple sclerosis, headaches, blood pressure and carpal tunnel syndrome.

e) Reduces arthritis pain, depression, stress, heart disease, chronic fatigue and back pain.

f) Helps in removing toxins from the body.

g) Heals several diseases and body ailments

h) Enhances concentration power and creativity; Reduces stress and tension

i) Allows better thinking, enhances flexibility and balance.

j) Leads to spiritual fulfillment.

For more Articles, News, Information, Advice, and Resources about YOGA and MEDITATION please visit YOGA TIPS and MEDITATIONBUZZ

Written By Lucas Rockwood

Yoga poses or Asanas make yoga a unique way of attaining physical, psychological and spiritual health. The secret of increasing awareness and popularity of yoga internationally lies to a greater extent in various yoga poses. The objective behind performing yoga is attaining both strength and flexibility. And this unique combination hardly found in any other work out is an outcome of yoga positions.

These positions are several combinations of stretching and breathing. Yoga poses are classified into several types depending on the posture and the resulting benefits. Some of them are for a certain part of the body and benefit that particular part while some are performed using whole body and offer benefits to the whole body. These poses are broadly categorised as standing poses, seated poses, back bends, forward bends, balance, twists, supine and prone poses, inversion and relaxation poses.

Standing positions

Mountain pose (Parvatasan) is considered to be the most basic standing pose and can be used to form several other asanas. These poses are mainly intended to benefit legs and hips and they help attain improved posture. Remarkable benefits of standing positions are strong leg muscles, increased mobility in neck and shoulder and improved flexibility in pelvis and lower back.

Seated positions

Lotus Pose (Padmasana) is a basic seated pose and is used in several other asanas. There are mainly two types of seated poses, one with legs crossed and other with legs folded back. These poses are intended for strengthening back, lower back and hips. These poses offer agility to spine and flexibility to hips, knees, ankles and groins. Combinations of deep breating, normal breathing, fast breathing and breath control with the basic seated position are used for attaining benefits like mental peace and curing breathing related ailments.

Back bends

As the name suggests, the positions aim at strengthening chest, rib, cage, arms and shoulders. The poses result into relaxing the front body, hips, arms and shoulders and improving the stability of the spine. Proper back bends help cure old backache and shoulder pain.

Forward bends

The positions are beneficial for strengthening lower back, back, spine, shoulders and neck. The positions are ideal for escaping from old neck stiffness and spinal pain. These positions are helpful in attaining a feeling of relaxation and calmness.

Balance

Balance or Santulan poses are intended for improving body posture, muscle toning, concentration and co-ordination. It aims at strengthening the spine and obtaining control on it to stop you from falling an increasing your stamina. However, these type are poses should be performed only by advice of and in presence of yoga experts.

Twists

Even though the name sounds strange, these poses performed properly with expert guidance help to release body tension and stiffness. Performed to the both sides of the body, twists result into increased shoulder and hip mobility, spine flexibility and escape from backache.

Supine and prone poses

There are several asanas in supine and prone poses. Supine poses are performed on one’s back and ideally offer improved spinal mobility and strong abdominal and hip muscles. In some combinations of these poses the body is either totally kept flat on the floor or is lifted up from the floor totally or partially with the support of hands or legs or both.

Prone poses are performed facing the floor. These poses help strengthen arms, shoulders, spine and legs. They also help relaxing back and lower back and are used as a solution for backache. In some of the combinations in these poses, upper half or lower half or both the parts are stretched and lifted a little up supporting them by abdomen.

Inversion

As the name suggests, these poses are performed keeping legs at higher position than heart. This leads improved blood circulation in the upper body. One of the most famous asanas in this pose is Sheershasana, which is keeping your body upside down for few seconds.

Relaxation
These poses are simple relaxing positions, which calm the body and mind after performing other poses. They help to cool the body down and attain mental peace.

There are several poses in each of the above sections. From its origin in ancient times, there have been several additions, modifications in yoga poses and their combinations. Yoga poses can effectively be used as therapy for curing some of the old ailments and pains which otherwise do not respond to modern medicines.

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