February 27, 2009

Karmic Yoga and Devotion

An Earth, Wind and Fire song says, 'Through devotion blessed are the children. Praise the teachers who bring the light to many. Your devotion opens the life treasures and delivers from the fruits of evil.'

I think this song is very meaningful when it comes to Karmic Yoga, because the whole concept of Karmic Yoga, though it may not seem to be sometimes, is devotion to a higher power as well as other human beings. Through devotion we help all of humanity. We raise our own consciousness while we are helping others raise theirs. The truth is that when we truly live a devotional life, we are engaged in Karmic Yoga where we are. When we are devoted to anything positive or neutral (but not anything negative) we are doing Karmic Yoga. You may wonder why I am saying this. I will give you an example.

I once knew a man who played the top of a Bic pen. I would consider this very neutral. He could play rock and roll, classical music, jazz, anything, on the cap of this Bic pen. He had even done classical concerts on it. I met him working as a volunteer at a drop in center for mental health out patients. He was one of the counselors. My job was to help get people involved in activities like singing, dancing, and so on each week to enjoy themselves. One night we decided to have a talent show. One friend played the guitar, I sang and this man offered to play the Bic pen cap.

What the heck? I thought to myself. We began to perform and we were so good that everybody quickly joined in and had a good time. Later he participated in many performances at the drop in center. During later talks I found that his man had done the talk show tour all over the United States playing the Bic pen cap. His devotion to playing the Bic pen cap had led him all over the country. Now these outpatients were benefiting because this young man had been dedicated to playing the Bic pen top. Very interesting.

Playing the Bic pen top doesn?t seem like much, but one can even do service in the world and help those in need, by being devoted to learning how to do that. How much more can one effect the world by being devoted to art, music, writing, reading, teaching, alternative health, any of the activities in which humans engage daily? This type of devotion leads to action. It benefits the human family when one has perfected his or her gifts and shares them freely with others. When we do this we are engaged in Karmic Yoga.

Your devotion to ?following your bliss,? as Joseph Campbell called it, and sharing that bliss with others, helps lift their spirits and helps make the world a better place. The world is in need of people who are happy and joyful. Your gift can be helping people to become joyful and to see the best parts of themselves. If you are working at a soup kitchen, feeding the hungry, digging wells for poor people in Africa, whatever, the element that is most necessary during these activities is to help people see the best parts of themselves. That can begin a climb from the deepest emotional and economic depths. To do this, however, firstly you must see the best of yourself. Following your bliss can help you do that.

Are you following your bliss? If you want to start doing Karmic Yoga it is important to dedicate yourself to doing so. It is important to dedicate yourself to become the most alive, vibrant, joyful person that you can possibly be, and that alive, vibrant, joyful person with others through your actions of service. For this is truly what we need in the world, people who are fully alive.

As you partake in your life of service, remember that just doing things for others isn?t enough. It is necessary to hone yourself so that you can be that beautiful spark of the Divine that you experiences in the most intimate moments. It is important to channel the creative nature of the Divine so all may partake of it. It is important to work from a center of being. Doing the work and service because you are a reflection of the embodiment of love that goes by many names is your objective. Through your devotion to this ideal and to other people, you will open the life treasures and deliver from the fruits of evil. This is the secret of Karmic Yoga?working on the self by working in the world and working in the world by working on the self.

Dr. J. W. Gilmore is a Writer, Spiritual Director, Anti-oppression Consultant and Wellness Consultant. He is a Certified Massage Therapist and Reflexologist, a Reiki Master Teacher, a Martial Arts Instructor and a Spiritual Coach living in Costa Rica. For more article like this or similar information visit: http://www.dswellness.com Recommended book, A Return to Being Human Religiously, Dr. John W. Gilmore.

Have a Health Problem? Yoga Can Solve It - Part 3

'L' is for let's do Yoga?just kidding. But seriously, Yoga is more than just poses and meditation or stretching. It is healing as well?and you?ll be on an unstoppable pace with a proper diet too. Here are the rest of the recommended poses for various health problems as applicable.

24. Laryngitis: Sun Salutations, the Shoulder stand and its counter pose. The Wheel pose.

25. Lethargy: Sun Salutations, Shoulder stand and its counter poses, the Wheel Pose and the Balancing Poses.

26. Menopause Disorders: Bow, Shoulder stand, Fish, Plough and Head to Knee Poses.

27. Menstrual disorders: Bow, Shoulder stand, Fish, Plough and Head to Knee Poses.

28. Nervousness: Shoulder stand and its counter-poses, Bow pose and Corpse pose

29. Ovarian Insufficiency: Inverted Poses, Bow Pose, Wheel Pose, Abdominal Isolation and the Head to Knee pose.

30. Premature ejaculations: Shoulder stand, Plough pose, Head to Knee Poses, Bow Pose and Peacock Pose. Abdominal Lifts.

31. Pubic Disorders: Sun Salutations, Inverted poses, Head to Knee Poses (sitting and standing)

32. Rheumatism: Sun Salutations (mildly 3-6 rounds), the Bow Pose and Triangle Poses. (Avoid Dairy, Wheat and Animal products and other processed and convenience foods!)

33. Sexual disorders: Inverted Poses, Head to knee poses sitting and standing, bow pose, Balancing Poses (Peacock and Crow variations)

34. Spinal Stiffness: Spinal Twist, Bow, Sun Salutations Twisted Crow Poses.

35. Stomach Sagging: Inverted Poses, Head to Knee Poses, Bow Pose, Wheel Pose, Balancing Exercises.

36. Thighs: Sun Salutations, Inverted poses, Diamond Pose, Bow and Wheel Pose, Head to knee Poses, Triangle Poses.

37. Thyroid Deficiency: Shoulder-Stand and Plough poses. (Include Celery and Green Leafy veggies in your diet and juices)

38. Uterine disorders: Inverted Poses and the bow pose

39. Varicose Veins: Inverted poses, Head to knee Poses and the Backward bending Exercises

40. Waistline-to reduce and firm: Sun Salutations, Inverted Poses, Spinal Twists, Triangle Poses, Balancing exercises

41. Wrinkles: inverted Poses, head to knee poses, Sun Salutations and the balancing exercises.

There you have it, the comprehensive list of what pose can help with any ailment you may have. Here is another tip, for any of these ailments listed above, incorporate what Philippus Paracelsus has named ?the greatest remedy–the physician within!” and that my friends is a Fast or as an alternative a restricted mono-diet of a juicy fruit.

Yoga, a proper diet and mental attunements combined can be a panacea (cure-all) for just about any disease, so target what you may be encumbered with and with dedicated practice, you should see a drastic improvement.

Foras Aje is an independent health researcher and founder of Bodyhealthsoul.com. For more Yoga tips and information on Yoga for beginners, feel free to stop by his website today.

Tantra Yoga Secrets

Tantra Yoga is unity by controlling sexual energy. When you consider the main Indian Yoga styles, Tantra Yoga is probably the most controversial of them all. So what is the problem? Is it our ?sexual hang-ups? or is it something more? What is the origin of Tantra Yoga? Is it all linked to the Kama Sutra or is there more to it?

Since Tantra Yoga uses many components of the classical Yoga styles such as mudras, pranayama, asanas, meditation, Bhakti, Yantra,and Kundalini, there are many similarities to other forms of Yoga practice. Some Yogis say that Tantra Yoga is the hardest Yoga to define, but there is a fundamental difference.

The major difference is Tantra Yoga accepts and embraces the power of ?desire.? Tantra Yogis are not trained to avoid desires that arouse the senses. This is a stark contrast from the many other forms of Yoga, which train their students to renounce desire. This is the foundation of the division between Tantra Yoga and the other classical Indian styles.

The origins of Tantra Yoga and the Kama Sutra date back to the Fourth Century A.D. The author of the Kama Sutra was Vatsyayana Mallanaga, who is somewhat of a mystery in the history books. There are no other traces of him to be found. He did write the world?s most famous sex manual to date.

Northern India seems to be the birth place of Tantra Yoga and it appears to have migrated further north to Tibet, and China, before going global. Many contemporary Tantra Yogis practice Tantra Yoga of Tibetan or Indian origin. Tantra Yoga practitioners focus on the opposites and dualities within the universe such as, male and female, Shiva and Shakti, or Yin and Yang.

At different points in time, ritual Tantric sex has been considered common place within certain Tantra followings. However, it is not as common place as some might think. There is also a common belief that Tantric sex is always intentionally prolonged. This is not always the case and sometimes Tantric sex takes it own natural course.

Lastly, it should be noted that the Kama Sutra might have been considered a ?racy classic? at the time of its writing, and during conservative points in history. However, by today?s standards, the Kama Sutra would offend the masses much less. Some of the entertainment, at this point in time, has managed to make the public more callous than we should naturally be. Entertainment of the present day is sometimes comparable to that of the Roman coliseums in the past.

Tantra Yoga is a good example of the cycles and evolutions of morality within human history. Whether we think Tantra Yoga and the Kama Sutra are right or wrong, the current moral code will change with time, but we may not live long enough to see it.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: “Yoga in Practice,” or a free Yoga newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga Teacher Certification for the Rich and Famous

Do you think the high cost of becoming a Yoga Teacher is too far out of reach? Will you have to sacrifice your family?s life savings to become a Yoga instructor? How will you be able to justify the time off from work needed to gain your Yoga certification?

There are cost-effective, and less expensive solutions, to learn to teach Yoga by becoming a certified Yoga instructor, without the cost of an ?arm and a leg.?

Recently, I was talking to an intern from an outside Yoga Teacher Training program, which had paid nearly $10,000.00 for on-site training, on an exclusive tropical island. He was upset, since he had borrowed tuition costs from his parents, and possibly sacrificed his job, in order to become a certified Hatha Yoga Teacher.

He visited my web site for a Yoga teacher correspondence course and discovered my course was a fraction of the cost he and his family paid. He asked me how this is possible. I explained that we do not need to feed, house, or supply hundreds of Yoga interns. On top of that, there are no transportation costs to be concerned with, when using a Yoga home study course. The only cost is for materials, tutoring, and Yoga teacher certification.

Further, I explained that to be trained in a face-to-face setting, by a Master Yoga Teacher, is more expensive due to the ?hands on? time spent with his teacher. After all, we have an onsite Yoga Teacher program that is more expensive than our correspondence course.

Time spent learning Yoga from a Master Teacher, or a Guru, is a valuable service. Our course is designed for an experienced Yoga practitioner who doesn?t need as much hands on help or who has a local Yoga teacher for guidance.

He continued the conversation to ask me about technical support, and I explained that we handle it by Email, over the phone, and some interns stop by for our Yoga teacher workshops. We have had Yoga teacher trainees visit us from California and Great Britain to attend a workshop. By the sound of his voice, he seemed depressed, and I asked him, ?What is wrong??

He told me that he hadn?t been taught anything about the marketing involved in the Yoga business or about business in general. He felt it would take a long time to pay his parents back and didn?t know if his job would still be available to him when he gets back home.

Then, I explained that we have Yoga marketing and business tools in our standard course and as a separate course for experienced Yoga teachers. I invited him to come to a Yoga marketing workshop when he gets back to the States, and, we both, made a new friend.

We all feel a ?calling? to do work that gives us satisfaction. It helps to have a passion about our work and to know that you are helping others along the way. This is one of the many benefits of teaching Yoga, but I advise you to research the cost of Yoga instructor education, and to be careful not to put yourself too far in debt. Otherwise, your passion for Yoga could turn into a financial worry - well into the future. This would make it difficult to teach the benefits of Yoga to your students, while you are stressed out over your bills.

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga in Practice: Train Your Mind for Empowerment, Part 1

Recently, there have been some objections to using words like empowerment, abundance, success, and achievement, within Yoga writings. However, it would be much more difficult to open the doors of my wellness center, in North Providence, if I were homeless. Imagine the number of children, teens, adults, and seniors, who could not reap the benefits of Yoga, if every Yoga teacher took a vow of poverty.

The fifth Yama: Aparigraha (Non-gathering) is clear to Yoga practitioners, but it would be difficult to contribute to charities, research Yoga, write, teach under-privileged people, or make a contribution to mankind, if you are starving in the back alleys of New England, or anywhere else. If you have nothing to give, you can give nothing; therefore, you must acquire and give to others to help mankind.

You should not abandon the concept of empowerment to help yourself, in order that you can help others - in turn. This is not about hoarding material, but accumulating, and re-distributing, to those in need. You only have a temporary hold on any material wealth in this life, so why not help people, while you have it? This is a principle of Karma Yoga: Union by selfless service.

Where do you start with training, or re-training, your mind for empowerment and success? It is within the basic programming of your mind that you must start. You must learn to ?eat, sleep, and drink? positive energy every day.

To eat correctly, a diet should, for the most part, consist of sattvic foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. There is much more to this dieting aspect, but it is difficult to find these foods at a fast food restaurant. However, it is worth the effort to research the sattvic diet and make small changes to your current eating habits.

When you sleep, try to get to bed earlier and be in your best frame of mind. You can do this by meditating or by practicing a stage-by-stage relaxation before bedtime. There are also many good meditation, self-hypnosis, and relaxation CD?s to choose from. Sometimes, dreams can be negative; but with the above-mentioned methods, you can change the programming of your mind.

Drink plenty of pure water and gradually observe how your behavior changes. Many people consume too much caffeine every day. Can you imagine if a negative person walked up to you, in a positive mood, and said, ?I?m sorry, for what I said before - I had one coffee too many, today?? This sounds like a ?lame excuse,? but in reality, there are too many every day conflicts due to caffeine.

With these first three steps, you will gradually train your mind for empowerment.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Universal Principles of Yoga, Part 1

Yoga and Yogic philosophy is occasionally misunderstood because some people have not been informed of the universal principles that are not threatening to any belief or disbelief. Many people who do not practice Yoga are often surprised to find detailed dietary suggestions contained within their Yoga training. Yoga aids the student toward better health in every possible aspect. So, Yoga requires and in depth explanation.

Let?s start with the meaning of Yoga, which literally means ?unity? or ?union.? Your next question might be, ?Unity with what?? Yoga does help unify the mind and body, but it also unifies the spirit or soul within you with God. The soul is sometimes known as the ?Atman? and can also be referred to as pure or true consciousness. Yoga is not a religion, but it can be practiced in harmony with any religion.

Before we go any further; it should be noted that many students from a variety of religions have practiced Yoga and feel a deeper connection with God as a result of the mind, body, and spirit unification process. Therefore, Yoga is doing no harm to anyone of any religion. Yoga philosophy does not preach a ?Better than thou? doctrine. This has been mankind?s excuse to wage war, since history was first recorded and even before.

The concept of another person?s religion, nationality, ethnic background, race, and gender; being less, have always been convenient reasons for bigotry, slavery, and cruelty. Tolerance of others is not a new idea in Yogic philosophy.

There is no group that has the exclusive rights to Yoga. India is the birth place of Yoga and the people of India have gladly shared their gift with the rest of the world. There is no exclusive group that practices Yoga or teaches Yoga classes. Yoga was not designed to be an exclusive practice and Yoga has evolved for the best over 5,000 years to this day.

For the sake of being ?politically correct,? many Yoga teachers omit the spiritual aspect of Yoga in their Hatha Yoga classes. This is fine, since the masses of some cultures object to learning about a method to connect to God. However, what does it say about a culture that is to busy to talk or think about God?

It means many things and some societies are showing signs of systematic spiritual illness. However, if you teach Hatha Yoga under these circumstances, you might be best to leave religion outside your classes. Unless, you are teaching Bhakti Yoga or something similar such as Jewish, Moslem, or Christian Yoga, the union of mind, body, and spirit does not usually occur in a typical Hatha Yoga class.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga For Kids

Our children today are subjected to a lot of stress factors. There is homework that
they have to do daily, the competition from other children, after school game
activities and sometimes over-scheduling from parents.

And just like us adults these children need something relaxing to turn to and that
Yoga could just be that instrument.

Yoga for kids helps then develop better awareness of their body, and also teaches
them total self control, flexibility and coordination. All of these they could carry out
not just in their Yoga classes but also in their daily routines as well.

Yoga for kids has shown to help children who are hyper active to tone down and
also brighten up those attention deficit ones. Children today crave movement and
sensory motor stimuli that can help them to balance up their inner soul-flow.

Yoga for kids helps them channel out this impulses in a positive way.

The main Yoga for kids poses that seem to work perfectly with kids are the warrior
pose and the tree pose. These two yoga for kids poses helps instill in them calm,
confidence and balance.

The trick to get them to do Yoga for kids is to go beyond just doing the proper
poses, you should have to get them think about what the real posture means.

Let them think that they are really what the poses are symbolizing; let them perform
the postures strong and confident like a warrior.

Yoga for kids with partners is also a good way to build up trust with you children. It
develops their teamwork skills and fosters a closer bonding.

Some kids when it comes to relaxation have a big trouble closing their eyes and
having them focus on their exercises. One thing that encourages a child to relax is
visualization. Let them think of something that they really like and let them imagine
being like these things.

You may also have them focus out on belly breathing first and have them listen to
soothing and relaxing music.

Then ask them to imagine their favorite spot in the house or let them think that they
are in outer space floating, or let them visualize that they are at the beach, playing
their favorite sport or doing the best activity that they like.

Sometimes for boys letting them think of a favorite girlfriend helps them relax, but
this is sometimes hard to do because they become shy and intolerable when this
kind of issues are discussed. Just stick to the visualization thing if this technique is
quite complicated for you.

Every day at the end of each relaxation exercises, encourage the children to share
their own experiences. Ask them to tell to the group what it was like to be in their
visualized surroundings. Ask them also to share what place have they imagined they
where in.

Another approach is to create a guided imagination by telling them a story with a
calming theme of some sort.

As you know children have the most active imagination, they imagine all sorts of things. And at this point of imagination it makes them feel calm. So when doing
yoga for kids let them think that they are walking on a green pasture.

You can even let them think that they are butterflies in a beautiful garden. The main
idea in here is to instill a sense of peace and feeling of oneness with nature.

Yoga for kids should be taught more often and in different places. It is important to
teach children the meaning of union of mind, body and spirit.

There is such a wealth of knowledge that we can offer to our children with the
practice of Yoga.

? Copyright Melvin Chua, All Rights Reserved.

Melvin has dozens more related articles and tips on doing yoga at his site: doing yoga, check them
out today!

Universal Principles of Yoga, Part 5

Kundalini Yoga: Is unity through awakening psychic nerve force, which indicates the depth of this Yoga style. Kundalini Yoga is sometimes referred to as the ?Mother of all Yogas.? On the surface Kundalini Yoga might resemble Hatha Yoga, but the emphasis on the subtle body, chakras, mantras, meditation, and Pranayama is presented in a uniquely powerful way.

Kundalini Yoga was cloaked in secrecy until Yogi Bhajan gave a lecture in Los Angeles during January of 1969. Until that time, most information about Kundalini Yoga had been exchanged verbally from teacher to student. So, this was the beginning of Kundalini Yoga teaching ?going public.?

The awakening of Kundalini energy starts with focusing on dormant energy at the base of the spine within the first major Chakra; also known as the Muladhara Chakra. Through asanas, coordinated Pranayama, Japa (repeating mantras), and meditation, the Kundalini energy is sent up the spine to the Sahasrara Chakra at the crown of the head.

Samadhi, also known as intuitive enlightenment, is one of the most sought after results of Kundalini Yoga practice. Therefore, Kundalini attracts a much different type of student and Yoga teacher from what is most commonly found in a Hatha Yoga class. This is neither right, nor wrong, but most Hatha Yoga students are not usually pursuing a spiritual transformation process.

As a side note: Kundalini has taken a few verbal assaults, from religious fundamentalists, for being a bit mystical and a little harder to understand. Based upon my own experience, Kundalini Yoga sessions will purge negative energy from your mind and body. Only positive results can be gained in the study of Kundalini Yoga, under the supervision of a competent Kundalini Yoga teacher.

Mantra Yoga: Is unity through sound. Mantra Yoga is also referred to as Japa Yoga and the repeating of particular Mantras will cause sensory withdrawal (Pratyahara). This is, in fact, easier for most people to accomplish than meditation and it allows the Mantra Yoga practitioner to remove negative energy from the body, mind, and spirit.

In Sanskrit Mantra literally means ?tool for thinking? or ?tool for thought.? The purpose of Mantra Yoga is to achieve salvation through unity with the supreme consciousness, which you many people refer to as God, Brahman, Yahweh, Jehovah, or Allah. The repeating of Mantras, which is also known as Japa, is in fact prayer. So, Mantra Yoga may not look like much ?from the outside looking in,? but it is a deeply spiritual, powerful, and rewarding Yoga practice, in its own right.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Alternate Your Strength Training Workout With Some Yoga

Many who think of strength training equipment think of the massive muscles that many bodybuilders get and consequently show off in competitions. This can be a plus or a drawback for many consumers. The average consumer likes to be able to say feel good about themselves when they go swimming, but many are concerned about building too much muscle and suffering from stereotypical viewpoints. This needn?t be a worry for anyone considering strength training equipment.

The average body builder works out a lot in order to get the muscles they are famous for, plus they have to be on a very strict regimen with lots of protein and little or no fat. It would take you a lot of effort to become as built as the average bodybuilder. Many consumers can use simple free weights in order to maintain the muscle mass that they have or to add a little muscle strength. Some use strength training equipment to add a little tone or shape to certain areas of the body.

If you use them properly and alternate your strength training workout with some yoga or stretching exercises there is little risk of you bulking up too much. Many find that they enjoy the challenge of working out with strength training equipment. You can gradually increase the weight as you work out over a period of time and after your workout you really will feel the ?burn? in your muscles.

Though you should be careful of using too much weight at once. Its easy to sprain a muscle and hurt yourself, putting you out of commission for a few days or more. A good rule of thumb is that if you think you can start out with a certain weight begin about five or even ten pounds lighter and after a few repetitions move up to the next weight level. You can check out strength training equipment reviews online for an idea of what others are doing.

Read more strength training equipment articles and strength training equipment reviews news or visit our strength training equipment site.

Theory of the Kleshas: a Yogic Understanding of Human Suffering (and Liberation!)

One of the foundational texts of the Yoga Tradition is Patanjali?s Yoga Sutras. It is here (among other places) that the Yogic understanding of the origins of human suffering (and Liberation) is offered in the form of what is know as the Theory of the Kleshas.

According to Patanjali, human suffering has its origin in Avidya (the first Klesa), the ignorance that arises when the soul ? in its descent into matter ? forgets its divine origin. This forgetting gives rise to the second Klesa, Asmita, or the identification of the soul with its vehicles (the various ?bodies,? including the most dense, or ?physical,? that we inhabit in our journey through manifestation). This false identification operates through the mechanism of the third and fourth Klesas, Raga and Dvesa, desire and fear. And it is here that we see the basic mechanism through which our bodyminds (our thoughts, words, & actions) operate dualistically . . . for desire/fear (Raga/Dvesa) is simply the most basic of the polarities, or sets of opposites, which define the terrain of human existence in its conditioned state. The fifth Klesa is Abhinivesha, or the desire (of the body/vehicle or ego) for its life, i.e. the desire to perpetuate, and fear of losing, its (illusory) ?existence.? This fifth Klesa defines the basic obstacle to reversing this process (the necessary first step for entering the path to Liberation), namely the attachment we have to the ?life? of the structure created by the various polarities, whose dissolution we experience as ?death.?

So what, then, is the solution? How does one reverse this process, dissolve the polarities, re-member one?s Svarupa, or True Nature ? and in the process activate a True Form, i.e. a set of vehicles enlivened by Virtues/Deities/geometries that grow out of and are nourished by the uninterrupted remembrance of their divine origin (by the radiant Core of our Being, whose yogic metaphor is the Shushumna Nadi)? Now Patanjali, of course, has an answer (which he lays out in the remainder of The Yoga Sutras ~ check it out!), as do countless other Saints, Sages and Teachers from various wisdom traditions.

The solution I?ve chosen to work with, in my own practice, is a distillation of sorts, from the wellspring of these Eastern traditions, of a set of techniques designed specifically for the Western mind, based solidly in an understanding that it is in the resolution of opposites that one finds the key to beginning this journey homeward. These ?polarity processing? techniques (a ?basic? technique as well as variations on it designed specifically to address issues at the level of the physical and emotional bodies) were given by Spirit to Leslie Temple-Thurston, and are described in her book The Marriage Of Spirit. (Please see my previous post describing this method!) Within the realm of yoga asana, Richard Freeman is someone whose teaching method/philosophy is based at least in part upon a resolution of opposites: a practice which looks to ?marry? opposing physical/energetic movements/patterns within the context of specific asanas ? and in so doing guide awareness continually back into the Shushumna Nadi, and from there allow asanas in their ?True Forms? to express.

Elizabeth Reninger holds Masters degrees in Sociology & Chinese Medicine, is a published poet, and has been exploring Yoga ~ in its Taoist, Buddhist & Hindu forms ~ for more than twenty years. Her teachers include Richard Freeman and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. For more yoga-related essays, and poetry, please visit her website: http://www.writingup.com/blog/elizabeth_reninger

Knowing More About Bhakti Yoga

Bhakti means devotion or faith. It can be devotion towards your fellow men as well as for the need we are living in this world. The devotion towards your god no matter which faith you are. It is the faith towards the Supreme Being which some may believe and some may not.

The thought is about how devoted you are towards the path you have taken. It is the energy which denotes the path and how important is the path for you. It talks about your full devotion towards the direction you have taken and the values for which you are standing by.

It is also a bond of love which grows between the one who prays to the one he prays to. It talks about love and devotion transcending all the boundaries you must have ever known about. It is not the physical attribute which creates the impact; it is spiritual, which creates unison of mind and soul.

It is one of methods to gain your spiritual path and gaining immense self-awareness which would be very hard to find. Looking into your heart and soul just makes things crystal clear. Need for a mind which is clear from all worries and attachment, for undivided attention to the devoted path.

It talks about love, devotion and knowledge in all forms which can bring a bright change in your life. It can create immense presence of your being in the beautiful world. It is beyond religion, a search for higher ground with your devotion (Bhakti). It is a form of love creating a merger between you and the outside world. It is a process to gather knowledge and also provide it to the one who needs it.

Kevin Pederson, the webmaster for Yogawiz, www.yogawiz.com which gives you everything you wanted to know about yoga and also goes beyond exercise, breathing techniques and attain more than you seek.

To learn about Bhakit yoga for devotion or complete faith click here ==>http://www.yogawiz.com

Insider Secrets to the Business of Teaching Yoga, Part 4

The authors, previously mentioned, have more than one motivational audio book out on the market - and this is only the ?tip of the iceberg.? Some of their stories will entertain you and give you insight to success. Every Yoga teacher, who succeeds, learns from past failures. It?s less painful to learn from other Yoga instructor?s failures and much less expensive, too.

If you brainstorm with successful Yoga teachers, or people in general, you will find many of them read or listen to inspirational material. They don?t participate in, or listen to, much negative talk, and you can?t afford to either.

As a Yoga teacher, you have to be positive when teaching every Yoga class. Your students will feel negative energy from you, and it is hard for any Yoga teacher to help others if he or she is ?feeling down in the dumps.?

Some negative thinkers will tell you to resign yourself to teach Yoga as a hobby. This is what each Yoga teacher should do if he or she doesn?t believe in success. Forget about your dreams, and believe in doom and gloom. You learn worthless concepts like:

?That will never work.?

?You have to be born with money.?

?Life sucks and then you die.?

Enough already! Stay away from these people, who want to shatter your dreams, of being a successful Yoga teacher, and believe in yourself. If you need more audio book or e-Book recommendations; send me an Email. When you develop a positive outlook, you will find yourself surrounded by positive people.

When each of us chooses to study Yoga, and then to teach Yoga; we learn about the many positive components of Yoga. Go back to the basics and cultivate prana. Practice positive meditation and positively visualize your future every day.

Eat a sattvic diet or eat as close as you can to sattvic. In truth, all Yoga teachers must ?walk the talk.? When we decide to become a Yoga teacher, we are supposed to be examples of good mental, physical, and spiritual health.

This does not mean we have to have perfect bodies, but all Yoga teachers should be in the best health possible. Otherwise, what kind of a message are we sending to the public at large? Being a good example of health is part of the job description if you decide to teach Yoga.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga - Various Types And Various Reasons

There are many forms of yoga which various yogis’ practice. The students of Hatha Yoga practice it for the health and vitality that it brings. Hatha Yoga is a wonderful means of stretching, exercising and freeing the body so that it can be healthy. The health of the body is a vital instrument of the soul and mind. Many people who practice Hatha Yoga find that in addition to healthy feeling bodies they become extremely clear minded and have better powers of concentration. They feel that every aspect of them is healthy. A few Yogis’ use Hatha Yoga as their main method for spiritual realization. Meditation is much easier with clear uncluttered minds and healthy bodies. Harmonizing the body’s inner currents (acting, willing, thinking and feeling) until they are in perfect balance is the main practice of Hath Yoga. This type of meditation is not so well known today as the purity of life required to do this well takes more time and dedication than most are prepared to give.

Another type of Yoga is Kundalini Yoga. Kundalini Yoga usually involves a combination of Raja, Hatha, Tantra, Laya and Mantra Yogas. The principal goal Of Kundalini Yoga is the stimulation of the spiritual life force at the base of the spine enabling it to rise easily from the lower centers of the being into the spiritual centers in the head where higher consciousness is perceived, experienced and lived in. Yet another form of Yoga is Kriya Yoga. Kriya Yoga is a mix of Raja, Jnana and Bhakti practices. The work ‘Kriya’ means to ‘make an effort’ or ‘to transform”. Practicing Kriya Yoga involves a daily program of self-discipline of the mind and body and devotion to God. Today Kriya Yoga is also practiced to direct life force to move up and down the spine transforming the meditator’s being until spiritual realization happens. To learn how to do this technique a student really requires initiation from a long-term practiser or Guru. Both types of Kriya are very ancient and deeply related. Throughout the world today there are several million people practicing the art of Kriya Yoga.

People become inspired to practice yoga by traveling many paths. For some they may meet a devoted Yogi, for others it could a personal crisis, which leads to the quest to find God, or the true meaning of life. Sometimes the path chooses the new devotee. Practising Yoga is a spiritual practice and a way to satisfy the heart’s deepest hopes. Once a devotee decides to proceed he then needs to decide which form of yoga is the most appropriate for him to practice. Yoga is best practiced for at least an hour every day. Bhakti yoga is usually chosen by those who are dominantly emotional, Jnana Yoga is predominantly chosen for those who are dominantly intellectual and for those who seek to attune their will with the higher self choose Raja and Karma. At the beginning devotees practice Yoga to gain the benefits that they hope for but as time passes begin to give more of themselves towards their ideals. Once this happens devotees practice Yoga not only for what it can give them but also out of love.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Yoga

Dahn Yoga - Yoga for the Soul

Nowadays, yoga is widespread and is new forms are continuously being developed today. Millions of people around the world enjoy yoga every day or week, depending on circumstances into this activity.

Of the so many forms of Yoga, Hatha yoga is by far the most common form, which involves both breathing control, physical exercise and postures combined. These exercises allow optimized blood circulation and improves flexibility, stamina, strength and vitality.

It is also a form of peaceful mediation that contributes to self-awareness and gives an extra energy that creates general wellbeing.

It should be easy to locate somewhere to practice your yoga as there are centers in most cities in the Western world.

If you prefer, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yoga at home. With books, DVDs or videos to suit your need.

Aside from Hatha Yoga, there exists another kind of Yoga. it is known as Dahn Yoga.

It is also referred to as Dahn Hak or Dahnak. It started as an early form of Korean instruction program that aimed to teach the participants on how to expand and widen both the body and mind. For hundreds of years it vanished only becoming resurrected in the 80?s in Seoul, finally arriving in the US in 1991.

Dahn yoga also educates participants 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, without doubt, improve health and prolong life.

Dahn yoga works by encouraging those taking part to communicate fully with their body, thus enriching their lives to the full.

Allied with the body?s natural healing ability, this is enhanced through stimulating energies that connect the physical body to the conscious mind.

Through deep stretching, breathing methods and meditation, Dahn 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 and as a result, functioning of the internal organs and systems in the body is enhanced.

With the integration of the body and mind, latent abilities are realized and goals set are more easily achieved. In addition, Dahn Yoga practitioners sometimes volunteer to teach and train without payment, promoting individual and community health, well-being, happiness and peace.

? 2006 Martin Haworth has a useful website with lots of information for those new to yoga as well as extended information for experts. Check it out at http://www.makethemostofyouryoga.com.

The Journey from Back Pain to Yoga Class

Why are doctors referring their patients, who have chronic back pain, to Yoga classes? How many studies have been conducted on back pain and Yoga? Is Yoga a ?cure all? for back pain? What kind of Yoga class is best for back pain? Let?s look at all of these issues and see if we can clear up some answers.

It is conservatively estimated that more than half of the world adult population suffers from some sort of back pain. Yoga, for back pain, is the most popular subject that teacher interns write about at our Yoga teacher training center.

However, this does not explain why so many doctors, within the United States, refer their patients to Yoga studios as an additional alternative to medication and physical therapy. The truth is, that within the U.S., there have been very few studies, and I only know of one in particular, which was the Group Health Cooperative study, which recently took place in Seattle, Washington.

Therefore, one study is not the answer; especially one study which just happened. The truth is, most of the studies on back pain and Yoga, as a form of therapy, are taking place in India. So, why does your family doctor, chiropractor, or orthopedic doctor, take a leap of faith outside the view of traditional western medicine? To put it simply, doctors read and continually educate themselves. They do not look down the narrow path of medicine that is laid down by bureaucracy.

Yoga is relatively inexpensive, in comparison to prescription medicines, so why bother to do a study? In comparison to the joint ventures, and potential profits involved in pharmaceutical studies, Yoga can?t promise a ?big pay day.? Yet, the fact that physicians, within the United States, are willing to ?look outside the box? for answers, speaks volumes in regard to their integrity. Doctors are often accused of being too quick to prescribe medicines, but the public often demands quick and effortless solutions in regard to health care.

Is Yoga really a ?cure all? for back pain? In short, the answer is ?no.? How can I say that? Nothing is a cure all for back pain, but Yoga helps most of the students I work with. No prescription can claim 100% patient satisfaction either. Odds are that most people, with pre-existing back pain, who take up Yoga classes for relief, will reduce the number of pain killers needed. This fact has been stated by my Yoga students over the years.

If you have pre-existing back pain, which style of Yoga should you seek out? Regardless of style, you may want to observe a Yoga class before trying it. You should seek out a gentle style, and you should talk to your prospective Yoga teacher ahead of time.

Stay away from vigorous Yoga classes. I would advise against taking part in my Vinyasa Yoga class, but I would welcome you with open arms in my Restorative Yoga class. Why do I say this? Yoga styles, class formats, lesson plans, and teachers differ.

My suggestion is that you get a private session first, and your Yoga teacher will work with you ?first hand.? If possible, get a referral from your doctor, or from a friend, who practices Yoga. This will help you avoid the guessing process.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga for Beginners: How to Take those First Steps into Yoga

Yoga is all around us these days. From Sting to Madonna, to maybe even your next door neighbor, everyone is hooked upon this fitness craze and with good cause. As a form of physical exercise, Yoga indeed is a force to be reckoned with. But just how can one go about using yoga for beginners? It is my hope that as a Yoga practitioner and enthusiast, this article will be of assistance in this regard.

If you have been considering learning yoga or have recently begun a yoga practice, I hope to provide you with some useful and helpful tips in which may be helpful to you in using yoga for beginners.

I have been doing Yoga for quite some time now, 6 years to be exact and since the first day I swore of free-weights and exercise machines, my use of Yoga and other body weight exercises like Hindu-Push ups (in my honest opinion a Yoga derivative) has been the main method for keeping fit. (in addition-of course- to my diet which co-incidentally changed when I started Yoga as a beginner those 6 years back.)

I will now enumerate the yoga poses to be learned as a starter which can aid or supplement your knowledge from your yoga classes, books and or DVD?s.

Yoga for Beginners: Yoga Poses to Learn first.

The Sun Salutations:

Okay, this is the core of Yoga itself. This exercise is a combination of Yoga Poses, Breathing exercise, Sun Bathing and Prayer. It is the warm-up of a yoga class or personal yoga session and is a combination of poses, 12 to be exact, that are performed in a synchronized motion with emphasis on rhythmic breathing. They mildly exercise the arms and legs and are often recommended for obesity, depression and fitness. Friends, several Martial Artists, Indian and African Wrestlers perform tons of rounds of these exercises alone, so in learning yoga, for beginners, this will be a guaranteed must-know.

The Shoulder Stand:

Don?t be intimidated by the name at all. Even for a beginner, this yoga pose is a piece of cake, really. It is actually a very important pose though, arguably the most important as its Sanskrit name (Savangasana) actually means the ?all members? or ?all limbs? pose, meaning it affects all parts of the body. As a beginner, be aware that some poses (such as this one) do have specific counter poses, so if you?re taking a Yoga for beginner class or learning from a DVD, make sure you are taught these poses to counter-act and balance the effects of the Shoulder-stand pose on the body, these are the Bridge and fish poses. Here?s a hint or ratio to adhere to in their combined execution: 6:1:2 , meaning the ?bridge? and ?fish? poses should be held for a sixth and third of the time you spend in the Shoulder-stand Pose respectively.

The Corpse Pose:

You?ve got to learn this Yoga Pose as a beginner. It is the relaxation pose that is usually executed during and after your session as a means of relaxing the muscles used for your yoga exercise. At the end of a session, it is usually done for about 15 minutes and one always comes out feeling refreshed after its execution.

Arguably, these are the 3 main poses you have to lay emphasis on in learning yoga for a beginner, but there are other poses that should be included as you go further. They are

1. The forward Bending exercises: Head to Knee pose, Plough Pose and Wind reliving pose

2. The Back Bending Exercises: The Bow, Inclined Plane and Wheel Poses.

3. The Spinal Twists

4. The Balancing Exercises: The Peacock, Crow, Side Plank and 4-limbed staff Poses

5. The Exercises in Sitting and Standing Positions

6. The Abdominal and Breathing Exercises.

Each of these groups has several variations on the root poses; however, let me tell you a secret that would go a long way in aiding you as a beginner learning Yoga. Do at least 24 round of the previously mentioned Sun Salutations and the ease in executing these poses will come almost naturally. Trust me.

There are several styles of Yoga to pick from and in seeking the right style of Yoga for a beginner; it might be quite difficult to pick the best. However, since Iyengar Yoga seems to involve a lot of props that can aid till flexibility is re-gained or enhanced, it may be one of the easier choices to pick. Kripalu and Bikram Yoga may also be quite easy to pick up as well as a beginner.

To find the best yoga for beginner class around you, you can always check your local YMCA or YWCA branches as they almost always carry information on Yoga classes for all stages: from beginner to intermediate.

One other factor that I must stress is the need to also pick up a Yoga diet for health and aiding these poses to both strengthen and detoxify you. This will-as a result of the symbiotic relationship that exists between Yoga and a proper diet-speed up an increase in fitness, weight loss, focus and the ability to execute these poses easily.

Though Yoga for beginners may best be learned from a certified instructor, your own practice will remain paramount for your mastery of this form of physical culture and there are tons of books and DVD?s to help in regards to this. Moreover, keep in mind that as a beginner doing yoga, not unless you intend to do lots of Sun Salutations as mentioned above, you may still want to incorporate some body-weight resistance poses (that co-incidentally are still Yogic in origin) such as the Hindu-Push-ups and Squats and the Bridge (now this is and the first one are basically Yoga poses in motion friends…).

This combination will see that till you have mastered the use of Yoga poses to make a complete session, you are still burning up enough calories and exercising the muscles for both weight loss and fitness.

Doing Yoga is fun, exhilarating and extremely rewarding for lots of reasons that may have already got you researching about it, so needless to say, choosing this exercise, even as a beginner, will go a long way into making for a fitter and healthier you.

Foras Aje is an independent health researcher and founder of Bodyhealthsoul.com. For more Yoga tips and information on Yoga for beginners, feel free to stop by his website today.

Chair Yoga Case Study - Reduced Anxiety and Blood Pressure

After teaching chair yoga for several years Liz Franklin can testify that it appropriate for almost anyone, even if they are feeling the effects of aging or have physical limitations. It is not for hard-bodied 20-somethings that can twist themselves into poses that look impossible ? the only prerequisite is that you can sit in a chair, including a wheelchair.

What better way to illustrate how chair yoga has benefited those unable to attend a traditional yoga class than to tell it in their own words?

Hi! I?m Penny Hoober. I?m proudly 64 years old, a mother and a grandmother. I?ve been working part-time at my church for 20 years. I?ve been married to a wonderful man for 38 years. I have been doing chair yoga since June of 2005.

I had a stroke and my neurologist suggested practicing yoga. I called three yoga studios, and when they heard I was ?post stroke? they did not want me to attend classes there. My daughter kept researching and found Liz? chair yoga class. She called Liz and after a nice conversation, I went to my first class. I was looking for more balance in my life and help with severe anxiety and other health issues, including high blood pressure.

At first I was somewhat skeptical, but I kept coming to class and after 6 weeks I began to notice subtle shifts and benefits. Now if I am unable to attend class I really miss it. My anxiety kicks in and my depression worsens. The classes have become a social time for me and I have made some wonderful new friends. My Monday class is a great way to start my week and keeps me going for the rest of my week. All the other students are non-judgmental and it is wonderful knowing that they are all dealing with their own health issues.

I have made incredible strides in lowering my blood pressure. I went from readings of 190/120 to 115/62. My doctor was shocked and amazed. I have found ways to incorporate brief yoga breaks into my life. I do little ?bites? of yoga all day long. Just dropping my tongue to the bottom of my mouth makes such a big difference in how I feel, both physically and mentally. I don?t make time to do an entire hour of yoga on my own, but the small things Liz suggests that we do during the day have made a big difference in my life.

I really enjoy the way Liz keeps the classes interesting by mixing things up. The classes are not monotonous and she is very sensitive to the needs and mood of her students. This program really does help your mind and body. It brings balance to your life but you do have to work at it.

Yoga has now become a part of my daily life and I find myself incorporating more and more each month. The release of tension makes such a big difference in my life. If you are thinking about joining a class or purchasing the videos, give it a try ? not just once but several times ? and you will be hooked on chair yoga!

Mark Franklin enjoys telling people about Liz Franklin’s Yoga In Chairs(r) because he knows it is helping people live healthier, happier, and longer lives. If you want to find out about her special style of chair yoga, visit http://www.yogainchairs.com

Polarity Processing: a Simple Yogic Tool for Getting "Un-Stuck"

When you?re feeling stuck in old emotional, mental or physical patterns, Polarity Processing is a simple & powerful tool ~ based firmly in yogic principles ~ that can help you get un-stuck. The technique has been given to the world through the contemporary Teacher Leslie Temple-Thurston, who is based, with her organization CoreLight, in South Africa and Santa Fe, New Mexico.

So here?s how it works: When you notice yourself being ?stuck? (e.g. in patterns of emotional reactivity, or in a physical illness you can?t quite shake, or in mental negativity, or in a life-situation (financial, relationship) which just seems to keep repeating itself, in a way that?s not useful or enjoyable), the first thing to do is stop and acknowledge your ?stuck-ness.? Simply being willing to see it (to access that part of yourself that?s a neutral ?witness? to whatever drama is unfolding) creates the space for this technique to work.

Next, take out a piece of paper and a pen, sit down, and write ~ for ten or fifteen minutes ~ about the situation. Let yourself describe it fully, with a focus on saying/writing how you?re feeling about the whole thing. You?ll probably generate a page or two of writing. (It should be no more than this.)

When you?ve completed this step, go back and underline (in what you?ve just written) all of the ?emotionally-charged? words or phrases. (Words like: hopeless, sad, frustrated, shame, rage, ?) This is any word or phrase which somehow points to how the situation is making you feel. If the situation is unpleasant to you, these words will probably be mostly ?negative,? but don?t exclude, in this underlining part of the process, the ?positive? ones.

Once you?ve done this, get a new piece of paper, and re-write these words/phrases you?ve just underlined in a column down the left-hand side of this new piece paper. And now for the most important step: for each word you?ve written down, ask yourself: ?What would be, in this particular situation, the opposite of this word or phrase.? As you get these ?opposites,? write them down in a column facing the first column ? so each of your initial words or phrases is now directly across from its opposite word or phrase. For example: if one of your underlined words was ?sadness,? you might choose ?happiness? as its opposite; if one of your underlined words was ?shame,? you might choose ?blame? as your opposite, and so forth.

After you?ve written down an opposite for every one of your underlined words/phrases, go back and read the list of words/opposites again. And then (and here?s the yogic part!) acknowledge to yourself (and the universe) that all of these states of mind actually exist within you. That some have been conscious (the ones you initially wrote about), and others have been unconscious (their ?opposites?), but now you?re choosing to become conscious of both pairs of opposites. When you do this, you ?liberate? the energy that has been bound in the emotional or mental or physical pattern defined by these pairs of opposites ? you allow unconscious ?stuck-ness? to begin again to flow ?

To end, sit quietly for a few minutes, and invoke the guidance of the invisible realms, in whatever way you?re comfortable doing this. Ask for the support of your angels or guides or God or Buddha or Whoever ? in releasing this old pattern, and opening to receive the shifts of body, mind & spirit that will be forthcoming. Notice how you feel.

[If a pattern is a long-term one, you may have to repeat this process, again and again, for weeks or months or years ? But each time you do it, the ?stuck-ness? will be unraveled a bit, until finally you?re completely free of it. For less-entrenched patterns, you?ll notice a strong shift after just one or two rounds!]

Once you?re comfortable with the Polarity Processing technique, you can deepen this work by learning a couple of more advanced practices ~ call ?Squares? and ?Triangles? ~ which build on the Polarity Processing work, and are focused in a more specific way on the physical and emotional bodies. Learn more about these techniques at the CoreLight.org website.

Blessings!

Elizabeth Reninger holds Masters degrees in Sociology & Chinese Medicine, is a published poet, and has been exploring Yoga ~ in its Taoist, Buddhist & Hindu varieties ~ for more than twenty years. Her teachers include Richard Freeman and Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. For more essays on yoga-related topics, please visit her website at http://www.writingup.com/blog/elizabeth_reninger.

February 26, 2009

Yoga Paths

Since human beings began practicing yoga thousands of years ago, the symbol of a tree has often been linked with the discipline ? and for good reason! Yoga has a multitude of branches when it comes to how you choose to practice and all of them are based on the same philosophy, or trunk, of spirituality. Hatha yoga is the one most well known to Westerners ? the physical act of practicing poses. Here are a few other paths that you may choose to combine with your personal yoga practice.

Raja Yoga

In raja yoga, the main goal is a calm and spiritual, meditative state. There are eight principles that are followed strictly and in order in raja yoga and, though important, physical movement or poses is not the focus. The eight principles or stages are:

* Ethical standards or 'yama'

* Self-discipline or 'niyama'

* Posture or 'asana'

* Breath control or 'pranayama'

* Sensory withdrawal or 'pratyahara'

* Concentration or 'dharana'

* Meditation or 'dhyana'

* Liberation or 'samadhi'

Karma Yoga

The focus of karma yoga is on service and treatment of others. The basic idea is that our experiences today are a direct result of our past actions. Therefore, everything that those who practice karma yoga do today is in an effort to create a better future for themselves and those around them. They do this by eliminating the motivations of pessimism and egotism. This means living for others instead of ourselves.

Jnana Yoga

Those who practice jnana yoga are most concerned with the development of the mind. They are scholars interested in the philosophy behind yoga and they their yoga practice focuses on studying and understanding ancient and traditional texts. This is thought to be one of the most intense yoga disciplines as the learning is intense and difficult.

Unlike branches on a tree, the paths of yoga often intersect and overlap. Though it is difficult to hang from two or three tree branches at once, it is not difficult at all to practice more than one path of yoga. Try them all if you like and choose the ones that most appeal to you.

Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides yoga tips on http://www.justyogabasics.com

Yoga Your Way to Physical and Mental Fitness

Although considered by many simply as an exercise fad, yoga practice has in fact helped thousands of people in improving their physical and mental fitness. Remember the golden rule of never judging a book by its cover; if you think that yoga?s all about bending and breathing and nothing else, think again.

The History of Yoga

The practice of yoga has been around for more than four thousand years already. Its origins can be traced back to India where even today, it is considered as a highly valued practice to reach a state of enlightenment. Yoga as a means to receive enlightenment is a central point in several religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

In other parts of the world, the popularity of yoga is caused by its many health benefits and its associated use with asanas (postures) of Hatha Yoga as fitness exercises.

Purpose of Yoga and Its Main Components

Besides reaching a spiritual state of enlightenment, yoga can also help individuals reach a better understanding of not only their bodies but their inner selves as well.

When practicing yoga, you?ll notice that you?ll be concentrating on three main points:

Body Positioning or Posture
Breathing Techniques
Meditating Techniques

Advantages of Yoga

Treating Back Injuries - yoga can heal back injuries that you may have by increasing the blood circulation for your injured tissues to heal faster and strengthening your lower back muscles; yoga may also in several cases heal other types of injuries as well

Prevention - Yoga also has the power to reduce chances of re-injuring yourself, shorten the time needed to recover from injuries and serve as a regular exercise technique to prevent disabilities

Mental Clarity and Improved Stress Control ? The quiet and deeply relaxing techniques used in yoga would help you have a better state of mind every day at work and better control of your stress levels

Greater Self-Understanding and General Well-Being ? Find yourself amazed with how much at peace you feel with yourself when you start practicing yoga regularly

Generally Better Physical Health ? Besides getting that ideal toned figure you?ve been aiming for, yoga will also help in refreshing your kidneys and maintain a better posture

Better Sleep ? Rediscover the simple pleasures of sleeping with the help of yoga.

Beginner?s Tips for Yoga Practice

Consult Your Doctor ? Before launching on to the first yoga step you encounter, make sure that your doctor gives you the go-ahead to do so. Yes, it?s true that anyone can technically do yoga but there are certain difficult poses that would be impossible or dangerous to attempt if you are troubled with past injuries or disabilities.

Just to be on the safe side, talk to your doctor and ask him if you can yoga your way to having a sexy figure or not.

Classes or Private Lessons ? When you?re determined to join a yoga class, make sure that you?re joining a class whose level fits yours. Make sure that you join the class on the first day as well to avoid feelings of insecurity when you see others being able to tackle new yoga poses that boggle the mind. Secondly, choose a class schedule that you can regularly adhere to. If you only attend a class or two every two months, that?s sort of defeating the point of joining a class in the first place. Lastly, choose the type of yoga class that fits your taste and abilities.

On the other hand, if you?re not the social type, you can always attempt yoga practice at home and with the comforts of privacy. The only disadvantage to this however is the chance that you?re not doing something right and the possibility of causing harm to yourself. The best compromise, in this case, would be to hire a private teacher for a lesson or two or until you know enough to practice on your own.

Khieng ‘Ken‘ Chho - Online Yoga Resources. For more, visit Ken’s website: http://yoga.1w3b.com/

Secrets of Exceptional Yoga Teachers, Part 1

Would you like to know a formula for becoming an exceptional Yoga teacher? What separates the exceptional yoga teacher from the ?pack?? Here is an itemized formula to become an exceptional and successful Yoga instructor.

Continuing education is part of a Yoga instructor?s job description. Although you may teach Yoga, you must accept being a student of Yoga for life. Learn what you can, to benefit your Yoga student?s ailments, and when you have time, learn a little bit more. With 5,000 years of documentation behind it, Yoga is like a great mountain where one lifetime will just not be enough to discover everything.

Patience is the next ingredient within an exceptional Yoga teacher. Be patient with yourself, your family, your friends, and your Yoga students. Do not put pressure on anyone unnecessarily. Some Yoga students have to grow into the practice. You might be unknowingly doing the same to yourself or your loved ones. The key is to become aware of it and always be mindful of others.

Take action and understand the laws of cause and effect (Karma). Most of the world takes no action at all, but exceptional Yoga teachers do not ?sit on their hands.? Just by taking action, you will be a success in life. Great ideas mean nothing without action, but your actions should always help others. It is fine to help yourself, just make sure you are not harming anything in the process.

Compassion is needed to become an exceptional Yoga teacher. You must show compassion for Yoga students and for mankind. Treat everyone possible with loving kindness. When this is impossible avoid negative people who seek pleasure through spreading pessimism, bigotry, hatred, greed, and envy.

Passion for Yoga and for helping other people can be found in most Yoga teachers. The Yoga teacher who just ?does it for the money,? will not last. If you feel like that, you should find your ?real calling,? passion, and true desires. Life is too short to waste time doing a job that you dread. Strangely, I have never met a Yoga teacher who regretted teaching Yoga. If I ever find one, I will let you know.

Courage is required to be your own boss. To wake up each morning and go it alone, without someone over your shoulder is a Yoga teacher?s life reward. Most of the masses like to be told what to do, but the Yoga teacher makes his or her own hours. There is some responsibility that goes with any business, but every Yoga teacher knows the responsibility is worth it.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

The Truth about Options for Yoga Teachers, Part 8

Let's summarize and ?recycle? a few points in the previous pages about options for Yoga teachers, who may be considering specialization. These are not all of the options for Yoga teacher?s, to consider, when thinking about how to find employment ?outside of the box.? You will need to work on your intuitive feelings to get an idea for the next popular Yoga trend, if that is what you are after.

As any experienced Yoga teacher will tell you; there are many more employment opportunities for Yoga instructors outside the Yoga studios and health clubs. Over the years, I have coached and trained many Yoga teachers who were certified by other programs, but needed to see that employment opportunities for Yoga teachers are everywhere.

One of the most lucrative salaries I have ever been paid, as a Yoga teacher, was for teaching Yoga to teen students within a juvenile correctional facility. Now, this would not be for everyone, but this is a good example of opportunities for employment, when you decide to become a Yoga teacher.

Some Yoga teachers do very well teaching private or semi-private lessons to their Yoga students. Teaching Yoga privately is really a matter of demographics. You have to solicit neighborhoods with residents who have disposable income.

Therefore, to be effective, you must gear Yoga private lesson offers toward ?upscale? neighborhoods. As a Yoga instructor, you have to pay your overhead too. If you charge $80 per hour for a private lesson, you will work half as hard as the Yoga teacher who charges $40 per hour.

To find out what price your local market will bear, inquire about the private rates of local Yoga teachers and personal trainers. Then, work your marketing efforts toward those clients who will actually pay for private Yoga sessions. If you have to travel to teach private Yoga lessons, your rate should reflect your travel time.

About your own students: One way to find out what your current students want is by creating survey forms. This will give you feedback as to what kind of Yoga specialization is in demand, in your local area.

Yoga student feedback is essential, but some Yoga students will walk by your survey forms for months, or years, without giving you any information. How can you create an incentive for honest feedback from your current Yoga students? Offer them a free Yoga class in return for the time it takes to fill out your survey.

Continuing education is the most important part of your Yoga teaching career. All Yoga teachers must establish a steady routine of learning more information that applies to their students. The purpose of all this Yogic education is for student safety, liability protection, and to be the best Yoga teacher you can possibly be.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Benefit of Yoga - The Christian Viewpoint

The benefit of yoga is twofold - increased health and unification of the spirit with the body. It is accomplished through the use of many different aspects, but mainly through the combination of Asanas, or postures, and breathing/meditation practices.

This raises many question in the Christian community. In my research for this article, I was very surprised at the viewpoint of the Christian apologists, and their take on yoga and its practice. I have hesitated on writing this article because of that viewpoint. However, I feel that this question and the stance of the Christian community warrants reflection on the subject.

Yoga has a history dating back over five thousand years, to the beginning of the civilization of man. Little is really known about Yoga. it is believed to have originated in Mehrgarh, a neolithic settlement in what is now Afghanistan. Scholars believe it has grown out of Stone Age Shamanism. In this early period of civilization’s beginnings, Yoga was a community resource, because of its attempts to determine cosmic order through inner vision, and apply it to daily living. In later years, yoga evolved into an inner dialogue through which the Yogis sought to develop their own salvation and enlightenment.

Archaeological evidence of the existence of Yoga first appeared in stone seals excavated from the Indus valley. It depicted figures in many Yogic Asanas, or postures, and officially put Yoga in the time period of approximately 3000 B.C. Of greater import, it also linked yoga to the great Indus-Sarasvati Civilization, a period in time that was considered modern and efficient.

From the Indus-Sarasvati civilization came the ancient texts known as the Vedas, the oldest scriptures in the world. The Vedas are a collection of hymns that praise a higher power and contains the oldest recorded history of Yoga teachings. The Vedas required the practitioner to transcend human limitations, and reach a higher spiritual plane. In later years, texts known as the Brahmanas were written to explain the rituals and the hymns of the Vedas. Following this came the Aranyakas texts, which outlined the practice of Yogis living in the seclusion of the forest. This led to the beginning of India’s medical tradition, known as Ayurveda. All in all, Yoga transformed into a practice of health, harmony of the spirit, and a way of life.

The Christian viewpoint is thus - if one opens the mind to clearer thinking and inner vision, they open the spirit to demonic possession. It is felt that Yoga practice borders on occultism, and that opening one’s mind and spirit to the benefit of yoga is both dangerous and against everything Christianity preaches. Christians believe that studying yoga is akin to practicing Hinduism, and one cannot separate the philosophy of Hinduism from their Christian beliefs, regardless of the health benefit of yoga.

As a practicing Buddhist, I take issue with this viewpoint. To me, this smacks of tunnel vision and narrowmindedness. A Christian is expected to open their heart and minds to Jesus, and to give in to the spirit of the Lord. They are expected to rely on blind faith, and to accept the word of God as the only truth in the world. A thinking person would find this hypocritical, for on the one hand Christians preach that Yoga must be avoided because opening the mind to clearer vision encourages the possibility of demonic possession, yet on the other hand preaches that one must open the mind and heart to accept Jesus into their lives. Opening one’s heart and mind is exactly that - whether it is to look into one’s self, or to accept Jesus into their lives. If, as Christians preach, we are open to demonic possession if we look inside ourselves and open the mind to all the possibilities, how then can we safely open our hearts to the concept of Christianity? Is there a gatekeeper who makes this decision when we do so that determines what path we are to follow? I think not…

For the record, I was raised in a Christian household. My father was the deacon of a small Baptist church in the farming community where we lived. My mother, who taught us children to question everything, moved from the Baptist community to the Assembly of God churches, and was ostracized by my father. I think that to her dying day, she resented my father for this narrowmindedness. Life is a matter of choice, and my mother believed that we are not required to operate under the illusion of blind faith, but to do what is right to us as an individual. And it is why I walk the Noble 8 Folded Path. It is simply a matter of choice, and questioning everything in this universe.

I believe that the practice of yoga is a good thing. It provides us with great health benefits, clearer vision, and harmony in our souls. And in this day and age, what else is there? Whether we be Christians, Muslims, or Buddhists, we must not disrespect the feelings and thoughts of others, their rights to practice as they wish, or try to push our views down other people’s throats. To live in harmony is exactly that…

To find out more about the benefit of yoga, visit my website at http://www.benefitofyoga.blogspot.com.

Alden Smith is a published and award winning author who’s website http://www.benefitofyoga.blogspot.com informs and educates the person wanting to learn more about yoga and its practice. Visit his site to stay informed on the exciting world of yoga.

The Many Benefits of Yoga

Many studies have been conducted to determine which areas will benefit from an extended practice of yoga. Yoga practitioners are most likely to see improvements in the areas of physiology, psychology, and biochemistry.

Furthermore, practitioners of yoga speak of a unification of the body, mind and spirit achieved through the practice of yoga exercises and breathing techniques. But, of course, that is a bit difficult to test scientifically.

Yoga Is An Ancient Way of Life

Yoga is not a recent development. It has been practiced for thousands of years, during which time people have greatly benefited from it. 1 of the fundamental beliefs shared by yogis is that the mind and the body are a unified system, which in a proper environment, can find harmony and self-healing.

Demonstrated Health Benefits

Many doctors consider yoga to have therapeutic results, and recommend it for several illnesses and conditions, mainly related to the nervous system.

From the physiological point of view, extended yoga practice can benefit:
- pulse rate
- respiratory problems
- blood pressure dysfunctions

- help stabilize the nervous system
- gastrointestinal functions

- endocrine function
- the range of motion in joints
- endurance
- energy level

- immunity to diseases
- cardiovascular efficiency
- improve eye-hand coordination
- reaction time
- dexterity
- depth perception
- sleep
- etc.

Yoga?s psychological benefits include:
- enhanced somatic and kinesthetic awareness
- self-acceptance
- self-actualization
- social skills
- well-being
- concentration
- memory
- attention
- mood
- learning efficiency
- and more

As for the biochemical benefits of yoga, tests have shown improvements in:
- glucose
- sodium

- cholesterol
- total white blood cell count
- vitamin C
- total serum protein
- hemoglobin.

Deep Organ and Joint Stimulation

Various studies revealed that yoga exercises are extremely effective at increasing joint flexibility, and at lubricating and strengthening the joints, ligaments and tendons. Another interesting finding is that yoga is one of the very few forms of exercise capable of massaging all the internal organs and glands. This includes organs that are rarely stimulated, such as the prostate. The stimulation and massaging of the internal organs proves to be extremely beneficial for health.

Elimination of Toxins

These ancient and efficient yoga techniques also provide a thorough detoxification of the body. Stretching the muscles and performing a complete yoga workout acts as a massage, thereby ensuring the optimal blood supply to every organ. Consequently, toxins are eliminated from the body and certain undesired processes, such as aging, are delayed.

All of these remarkable health benefits are available from yoga practice. What are you waiting for? Let’s go find a yoga school!

Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Visit Yoga to learn more about this fascinating and healthful hobby.

Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Yoga Teacher Guidelines for Assisting, Part 3

You can take this advice ?to the bank.? Invest in your career by expanding your education with books, videos, online courses, Yoga teacher correspondence courses, workshops, seminars, and Yoga retreats. By making continuing education a necessary part of your company policy, you will be a ?safety-minded? Yoga teacher, with impressive knowledge and credentials. So, on top of being a safe Yoga teacher, and attracting more students, you will also protect your business.

Your other option is to take risks, and there is no excuse for it. Books, videos, and correspondence courses, are relatively inexpensive. Seminars, retreats, and workshops, for Yoga teachers, can be somewhat more expensive, but the value of continuing education is so important; add to this that you may be able to network with local Yoga teachers after you have taken a Yoga course.

Why would anyone want to short change their own Yoga business? The only justification I hear is cost, but if you are serious about teaching Yoga safely to others, you can invest in education one book at a time. Later, take a Yoga teacher course that fits into your budget.

Do physical assists in Yoga postures make you feel uncomfortable? Some Yoga instructors dread assisting their students; while some students leave Yoga classes that have ?hands on assists.? This ?hang up? about touching may seem ridiculous to some Yoga teachers, while other Yoga instructors avoid touching like the plague. Remember that touching another person can be difficult if you have a personal history where touching was used to gain trust, and later betrayed. It is also not looked upon favorably by some cultures.

For example: As a child and a younger adult, when I met martial arts masters, from Okinawa and Honshu, students were informed to bow and keep the small talk to a minimum. Hand shakes were not to be offered, as this was an intrusion of personal space. I understood because my next door neighbor was Japanese and explained enough to satisfy my curiosity about Japanese culture and history.

Is it really necessary for Yoga teachers to give a physical assist? Not really, some teachers are very good at verbal cueing. Some classes are based on movement, such as Vinyasa Yoga. If you teach Iyengar Yoga, assisting is a regular part of your daily practice.

Just remember to always get permission, in writing, and verbally, before you place your hands on your students.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Some Easy Life Style Changes Will Help You Cut High Blood Pressure

Don’t always look up. Look down sometimes. Watch the bulge of your stomach. It has been faithfully receiving the load, three or more times in a day, without questioning you once. But there is a limit to one’s tolerance or acceptance. When your body shrinks too much or expands too much, positively think that something is wrong somewhere.

Over the years, your life-style has changed too much. For your trouser, you require two meters of cloth. Years ago, it was just 1.25 meters. The change is on the wrong side. And did your doctor say that you are having high blood pressure?

So far, you have been thinking that lifestyle changes refer only to your apparel. Or, to install additional amenities to make your life more cozy and comfortable. You thought that a ‘healthy’ and well built personality like you is not a fit candidate for the blood pressure attack! The first attack itself nearly wiped out the sources of strength in your body. You felt tired and exhausted.

Yours could be the stress related blood pressure. Could be! Not sure! This again is another highlight of blood pressure. Till today, the precise reasons for blood pressure are not known. But lifestyle changes have treated very well, majority of the high blood pressure patients. So, when the result is declared that you have passed, why worry about the examiner and the examination center?

Go placidly amidst this noise and din of life. Do not own up too many responsibilities. Everything is happening in this world, as it should. The earth rotates on its axis. Don’t consider yourself so important that you are an additional axis. By managing your stress properly, you will not only take care of your blood pressure, but your quality of life will also improve.

Enough of that late night alcohol parties! If you still persist, in not too a distant future one of your still living friend will announce in a sad tone, ‘the late Mr. so and so,’ used to attend these late night parties!

I am going to tell you some simple things to beat back blood pressure. Exercise regularly, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, meditate and do some breathing exercises. And report to me the miracles that are taking place in your life!

http://www.blood-pressure-updates.com/bp/ & High Blood Pressure provides detailed information on blood pressure, blood pressure monitor, blood pressure measurement, high blood pressure and more.

Karmic Yoga and Creation Spirituality

To remain involved in Karmic Yoga and derive the joys that come as a result of service one must somehow embrace the ideas that underlie Creation Spirituality. Creation Spirituality, not to be confused with Creation Theology, is described by Matthew Fox as the Christian Mystic Tradition. It is a tradition that has been all but erased, especially in many institutional churches. When we look at the history of Christianity, however, and especially the monastic movement, we can find traces of Creation Spirituality.

Creation spirituality, as defined by Matthew Fox, involves the acceptance of four paths or ways. Here I will give a general overview, but we will explore each path in subsequent articles. The first path is the Via Positiva. The Via Positiva experience is the natural condition of the human being at peace. It is a time of rest and a time of stillness where one is full of potential energy, but also very much at peace and in a state of balance. The second is the Via Negativa. On this path one?s balance has been disrupted. Something has come into one?s life that causes a shift in one?s thinking, or ones opinion about the world. One is force to reform her or his opinion about the world and life. Part of the self dies during this shift and it doesn?t feel good. The old maladaptive dies and seeds of that which will be new begin to sprout. The third is the Via Creativa. During this phase the seed begins to sprout. One achieves balance again at a higher state with more clarity and awareness about reality. The fourth is the Via Transformative. During this phase one integrates the changes that she experiences into he life. The change is integrated to the extent that she becomes a large, transformed individual. As we live, breath and strive to link with the Divine, we are walking on all of these paths.

They are not hierarchical paths, or linear. We can be on different paths in different areas of our lives at the same time. The main idea running through this concept of the paths and creation spirituality is that we are still in the process of being created just like the universe. We go through all of these paths repeatedly and never complete them.

The universe is not complete. The same divine power that has been working in the universe since the time of it?s creation is still working not only out there somewhere, but also inside us. We, like the universe, through many experiences are changing and growing, becoming something more than we are at this very moment. If we choose well we can learn and do things that will help us move toward the light and becoming the image of the Divine more quickly, if not we may be caught of in the cares of the world and lose ourselves in the Maya (Illusion) of the world.

Much pressure and heat is required to create a diamond. Some stones become diamonds, but some just become coal. The human being is in the position where he can decide to become a diamond or become coal. As we do Karmic Yoga we are taking a path that will lead us to becoming a diamond. As we realize that the universe is still in process and that we are part of the universe and still in process ourselves the pressure lessons, but we obtain the same results.

As we do Karmic Yoga in this mindset it becomes clear that we are not only helping other people, we are not only helping the environment, in the larger sense, we are helping ourselves, because we are the world. We are the environment and the universe. More scary that all of this, we are those people that we are helping. As The Mayans often say, ?All is God, God is all.?

As we work and devote our lives to Karmic Yoga let us remember that we are one not only in theory, but in reality according to quantum physics and social psychology. It is important to also lead others to realize who and what they actually are. Putting aside the foolishness and deception, as we embrace our true identities, we work hard to clear our minds and let the primordial light of love and justice flow from the center of our beings like an fountain bubbling into everlasting life. This is the goal of Karmic Yoga?to bring the water of the Spirit of Truth to desert places in order to quench the thirst of those who need love, truth, justice, and freedom on this sometimes lonely earth. As we remove the barriers created by the mind and through mental manipulation we will find this earth is not a lonely place, it is a veritable garden and we, the Karmic Yogis of the world, are those who work to help it flourish.

Dr. J. W. Gilmore is a Writer, Spiritual Coach, Anti-oppression Consultant and Wellness Consultant. He is a Certified Massage Therapist and Reflexologist, a Reiki Master Teacher, a Martial Arts Instructor and a Spiritual Coach living in Costa Rica. For more article like this or similar information, and information on our new Cyber School, visit: http://www.dswellness.com

Reunion of Souls, Dr. John W.Gilmore. A book of deep spirituality in Sci-fi form.

Learning to Access SILENCE

To access deep wisdom you need to learn the art of silence. When you are quiet and listening within to your own heart song, your rhythm, and the centeredness of your being, that?s when you have great access to wisdom, ability and the expanded consciousness. Silence is where you learn that you are an extraordinary being, with unlimited capacity, and that secrets are revealed to you. In moments when you become quiet a wonderful world opens to you. Or shall I say is revealed to you. It is in this space that you recognize the quiet center of your soul that rests in continual peace.

We connect with the divine part of ourselves in the silence. To allow yourself to simply be is the greatest act of respect. This is another lesson that we delve from the silence. From the simple to the extraordinary we encompass all of it. We are capable of the quiet interaction to the great displays of courage, grace, magic, and laughter, to the full blown wildest imagination. As you spend more time in periods of silence, you find that you are renewed, energized, have great ideas, connect with solutions, can propel yourself forward, or can shift from an inflexible position to one of fluidity as swiftly and easily as you need.

You easily recognize what feels peaceful and what or who does not. It becomes a simple thing when you can make an adjustment in your life so that you can retain your peace. The quietude of your mind, and heart is an extraordinary peaceful encounter. When your mind is running with fury and it pulls you in many directions, it is hard to find the balance without the quiet. We need to actively pursue the stillness. We need to quiet our minds, and unburden ourselves of all the mind junk. It does take much practice but everything worthwhile does take practice. The mind is fast and furious. The mind is vengeful and full of its desires and pressures. You must choose the quietude to know your peaceful nature. Silence is the pathway to your higher consciousness and understanding and ability.

Yoga Kat–aka Katheryn Hoban is a yoga teacher and Reiki Master Teacher with twelve years experience. She teaches children’s yoga ages 3-6, and 7-12 and Adults privately in NJ. She is the author the book DAUGHTER BELOVED which will come out next year. She has created a children’s affirmation CD (ages 3-6) and an affirmation CD for adults. Yoga Kat is available for speaking or writing and can be reached at katscoolcorner@yahoo.com or 201 970-9340

COMING SOON http://www.thecircleofpeace.com

Health Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient way, practiced for thousands of years, steeped in tradition and, to most people, a mysterious enigma. When practitioners would speak of the many benefits they had experienced in both mental and physical health, yoga would seem to be both a perfect practice, or one whose claims were impossible to believe.

practitioners of yoga, or yogis/yogins (yogini for the ladies) would speak of the unification of mind, spirit, and body. The belief was that when these were brought into balance the persons mental and physical health would improve. The word “harmony” would be heard a lot, as would be “healing”, again, applied both to the body and the mind.

Until recently, you could only go by what someone who had personal experience could tell you. There was a reasonable amount of skepticism that yoga could actually be as beneficial to your mental and physical health as its proponents claimed.

However, in the last few years, scientific study, observation, and measurement have proven that yoga can indeed have specific observable affects on your health. It has been shown that body, mind, and spirit do work together and when the effective level of each is raised, the person experiences a much better life in terms of health, happiness, and harmony within himself or herself and with the world in general.

An article published by Johns Hopkins states:

“Over 75 scientific trials have been published on yoga in major medical journals. These studies have shown that yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity that also has important psychological benefits due to its meditative nature.”

In our modern society, we are likely to look at yoga first as an “exercise program”. As with any good exercise program, yoga can increase muscle strength and respiratory endurance, improve flexibility, and promote balance. It also tends to lessen pain in those afflicted with arthritis and helps to increase energy levels in those who practice it.

Yogis and yogins also have long reported increases in what might be called positive mental states, along with decreases in negative mental states. They tend to report a greater level of optimism, a renewed or improved enthusiasm for life, and a higher sense of alertness and awareness of themselves and the world and people around them. They have also reported decreased levels of aggressiveness, anxiety, and excitability, as well as lowered levels of physical complaints and illnesses.

Scientific observation and testing is now bearing out what practitioners have been saying for years. Studies on the biological, psychological, and biochemical aspects of yoga have shown a wide range of positive results for most who take up the practice of yoga.

When practiced over time, yoga tends to level pulse rate, stabilize the nervous system, normalize stomach and digestive activity, level hormones, and increase joint range of motion. It increases energy, endurance, immunity, and cardiovascular efficiency. It improves eye-hand coordination, reaction time, dexterity, and helps the person to get more restful and restorative sleep.

Yoga also seems to have psychological benefits as well. practitioners and those who study them report that it helps you become more aware of your body, accept yourself more readily, improve your concentration, memory, learning and mood.

Additional benefits of yoga as compared to other exercise programs is that it massages internal organs in a way that other programs do not, and produces a detoxifying effect. Some speculate that this may lead to delaying aging.

Finally, yoga can be practiced almost anywhere, anytime, by anyone, and requires no special equipment. It does not even require special training! While having an expert teach you personally would be best, a careful reading of books on the subject and a DVD or two can get you started. However, our modern citizens tend to throw themselves headfirst into new projects. Not only is this completely opposite from the philosophy and aims of yoga, but it can invite injury and strain. The people in the books and DVD’s have been doing yoga for years. It is highly unlikely that you will immediately be able to duplicate their ability to achieve the positions they demonstrate. Just do the best you can, and then do it again tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day…

As always, before beginning any physical fitness program, check with your doctor first to make sure it is okay for you to start. Once started, however, be aware that there are people in their 70s, 80s and 90s doing yoga. You will not be alone.

The author is retired from the Army after 21 years of service, has worked as an accountant, optical lab manager, restaurant manager, and instructor. He has been a member of Mensa for several years, and has written and published poetry, essays, and articles on various subjects for the last 40 years. He developed an interest in health and fitness in the ’70s after reading numerous books, including Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s “Aerobics”. This has led him to continue his personal research into health and fitness for over 30 years, and to pursue course work on health and fitness, including yoga, which he practices regularly. Learn more about Yoga. Articles on Diet and Weight Loss.
 
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