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Hatha Yoga To Keep Your Cool

Monday, May 2nd, 2011

yoga teacher trainingBy Kimaya Singh

As teachers, we know Yoga originated in India and is thousands of years old. Yoga helps one achieve relaxation of body, mind, and soul. Yoga is often practiced to reach states of harmony and enlightenment through meditation. The word “Yoga” comes from the sacred language of scholars (Sanskrit). Yoga has the same root word as the phrase “to tie.” In a figurative sense, Yoga actually means to harness the soul to the body.

Some forms of Yoga are only focused on meditation, while others concentrate on stress relief, asceticism, and physical exercises. Today, people from around the world understand Yoga from the slim-fit approach combined with breathing and calming techniques. This type of Yoga is called Hatha Yoga, which translates to powerful physical form of Yoga. “Ha” means sun, “tha” means moon; thus, Hatha yoga is the harmonization of the two basic, but powerful, energies in our solar system.

According to Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the most famous Hatha yoga text, there are many Yoga positions (asanas). Only Shiva, the legendary founder of Hatha yoga, knows all of them. Popular is the division into 12 regular postures from which the 84 main asanas develop. Gradually the positive effects of Yoga have been discovered. With Hatha Yoga, unlike with gymnastics, the muscles are not strained heavily, but only slightly stretched. The Yoga exercises for stress relief consist of the three following typical characteristics.

Asana

These movements govern how the body reacts during physical Yoga practice. Through these exercises, the muscle tissues are improved, tensions are reduced, and full body awareness is increased.  The weaker areas of the body are strengthened, and the practice of asana promotes the interaction of body, mind, soul and breath. Through a physically intensive position, inner serenity is sought and found.

Pranayama

Pranayama is the series of breathing exercises that help with natural absorption of energy (prana). This is an extremely essential part of Yoga, as stress and poor posture causes most people to breathe shallow. Yoga curbs the deep-breathing mechanism; thus, it fuels the body with more oxygen. Conscious inhalation of air also brings about a state of inner peace and complete satisfaction.

Relaxation

Although meditation is very important, most people would be better off to work on fundamental relaxation techniques first. As children, we learn to walk before running.  Paulji often says, “It is much easier to meditate by relaxing first.” Relaxation is an area of Yoga, which deals with techniques of deep tranquilization, to reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, and to feel inwardly calm and balanced. Yoga includes much more than just a series of body and breathing exercises. Yogic relaxation should become a habit and can be best described as a lifestyle or a state of mind.

The secret and success of Yoga is that it is solely about personal progress, and not about competing with others. The fabulous thing about Yoga is that it can increase physical fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility, while one can set individual goals. Some find more body awareness through Yoga, train their mobility, learn how to cope with stress, and encounter a sense of serene satisfaction. Yoga to keep your cool is the way to peace and harmony.

© Copyright 2011 – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

To see our selection of Online Yoga teacher training courses, please visit the following link.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/store/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste!

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Yoga – The New Ancient Elixir of Well-Being

Thursday, March 17th, 2011

yoga certificationBy Eric Noel Perez

Several decades ago an extraordinary Mahatma had a vision of coming to the west for the purpose of disseminating the perennial wisdom of the orient to those thirsty for spiritual knowledge. These parched souls, or “lost stars,” as he referred to them were men and women who were still searching after the panacea for all their ills, as well as for the truth of their existence. It was this great being’s mission to impart the rejuvenative practices of Yoga to them. The man’s name was Shri Dhyanyogi Madhusudandasji, one of many Siddhas during this time to make a humanitarian pilgrimage to the occident: teachers like Swami Sivananda and the world renowned Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the highly acclaimed Autobiography of a Yogi also trekked across the globe out of compassion for their fellow humans. They prognosticated that Yoga would sweep across the western hemisphere to counteract the misery caused by ignorance and materialism, and nearly half a century later the predictions of these exemplary men have proved prophetic.

A flailing global economy, the decimation of our natural environment, pandemic poverty and seemingly endless war have left the average person stressed and anxious, if not destitute. Many turn to drugs, alcohol and/or sex as a means of escape, while others immerse themselves in countless other distractions in the hope of finding release. However, all these measures are not only temporary, but destructive, and a new means of coping with stress, disease and depression is desperately needed in our society. Yoga has answered the call.

It is ironic to call Yoga “new” since it is the oldest life science on the earth. Enlightened souls have been expounding on the Yogic doctrines since time immemorial, and countless experiments, conducted in both external and internal laboratories have confirmed what they promise: overall health, and ultimately, liberation. The power of Yoga comes from the fact that it addresses every part of the human being, namely the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. The word Yoga itself comes from the Sanskrit word for “yoke” or to unify. What is there to become one with? Firstly, the individual Self (Jiva), and then the cosmic Self (Shiva).

Therefore, true Yoga occurs when there is a harmony between the individual soul and God. This is what all the religious and spiritual traditions of the world have described as being the summum bonum of existence: enlightenment, heaven, Nirvana, Moksha, Samadhi, etc. Of course, freedom from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) is not easily won; only those with great discipline and God’s unmerited grace attain this exalted state. However, one should not be discouraged by the monumental task of self-realization, since along the way there are many measurable benefits to practicing the various forms of Yoga, namely Hatha (physical exercises), Jnana (knowledge), Mantra (sacred sounds), Karma (action)), Bhakti (love and devotion), and Dhyana (meditation).

The benefits of Hatha Yoga are manifold, and have been confirmed by both practitioners and medical professionals alike. In Vedic science the human being is said to have different layers which constitute his existence (called sheathes). The first sheathe is the physical body. By performing asanas (postures) the physical body is made strong and limber. When the body is made flexible there is a subsequent opening and purifying of the nerve channels inside the body known as nadis.. These channels serve as highways by which the prana, or energy can travel freely to nourish, heal, and enliven the body.

Many hospitals (and some insurance companies) have even begun to accept Yoga as a viable form of physical therapy. Hatha Yoga has another, lesser known advantage. Whenever a person experiences a negative emotion (anger, fear, loss, etc.) which remains unresolved then that emotion becomes stored and locked in the physical body. The process of performing hatha can unlock those areas, thereby releasing the emotion. I have heard this phenomena referred to as “crying on the mat” since many yoga practitioners have inexplicably shed tears in the middle of a pose. According to the great Yogis, there is an asana for every physical ill. Ultimately, however, the purpose of Hatha is to prepare the body for meditation.

Jnana Yoga is known as the Yoga of knowledge, and it entails the reading of any bona fide scripture with the intention of stripping away the veils of avidya, or ignorance that distort our understanding of reality. Jnana Yoga is meant to develop our sense of viveka so that the practitioner can eventually discriminate between truth and illusion, the right path and the wrong one. The mind gets purified over time with the practice of Jnana, and confusion begins to wane. Texts like the Bhagavad Gita (revered by Einstein as being the most perfect of doctrines on any subject), The Ramayana, Buddhist Sutras, the Gospels of Christ and even the Tao Te Ching all lend themselves to the pursuit of Jnana Yoga.

Fortunately, many modern scholars and scientists have begun to refer back to these ancient, eastern texts in order to solve the dilemmas of today. Books like The Tao of Physics and The Holographic Universe show uncanny synchronicities between ageless mystical teachings and recent laboratory findings. Quantum physicists have, since the splitting of the atom, continued to search for the ground of being from which all matter arises. Smaller than the atom (once thought to be the minutest particle) were the protons, neutrons and electrons. Once they split these they eventually uncovered infinitesimally small sacs of energy which they dubbed quarks. Then came neutrinos, then strings, and so the process of reverse engineering continued until an amazing discovery was made. Beneath everything, at the core of all matter are photons of light blinking in and out of existence so rapidly that they give the appearance of creating solid forms (like spinning blades of a propeller creating the illusion of a solid disc). And between these photons? Empty space! Such a discovery echoes the teachings of the Vedas and Sutras which speak of the material world as being illusory, a movie projected from the mind of the Creator onto the screen of time and space: “And the Lord said: ‘Let there be light.’” (Genesis 1:3)

Vedic lore speaks of ten major Avatars, or incarnations of God whose sole purpose for incarnating is to destroy irreligion, and to reinstate the dharma. In Februay of 1486 one such avatar appeared on earth, and His name was Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the originator of the kirtan movement. Kirtan, put simply, is the singing of the Lord’s names, the practice of which disentangles the embodied soul from its material fetters. The power of kirtan is in the vibration of the sound made when a divine name is uttered, and this is the concept behind Mantra Yoga. Mantras are sacred sounds that constitute and recreate “reality” by purifying the internal and external environment of he who chants them. In fact, the whole universe is a construct of sound vibration, and that sound, or progenitor is OM (AUM).

Everything in the universe is energy, and that energy vibrates (think of an air conditioner or car engine humming). The totality of all vibrations in the cosmos coalescing into one would make a sound like that which is recounted in Revelations as the “sound of roaring oceans.” The masters assert that there is a mantra for everything, from health, to money, to intelligence and peace. In the end, however, the purpose of the mantra is to serve as a bridge between man and the Lord. Etymologically speaking, the word AUM is the root of the Latin word Amen: “In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God.” (John 1:1)

Of the different branches of Yoga it seems that Karma Yoga is best suited to the action-filled, work obsessed western lifestyle. Quite simply, Karma Yoga is performing selfless service for its own sake, and turning the fruits/results of said service over to God. In Karma Yoga the practitioner acknowledges that it is God who is the doer. Philanthropy in its purest form is Karma Yoga. Studies have shown that children that are regularly involved in charity events at school or at their local churches experience better sleep, less stress, and perform better in school, on average. Those who give truly receive.

Bhakti Yoga is for people with an inclination towards love, passion and intimacy. In practicing Bhakti Yoga one seeks to create a bond of love with God and all his creation. To see God in everything and everything in God is the path of the Bhakti Yogi. Hindus are known for their Bhakti more than westerners who seem to have had stoic, puritan ancestors (however, many Baptist and Born Again churches have taken to worshiping the divine with raucous, shameless singing and dancing). In the Vedic epic Ramacharitramanasa we are introduced to Hanuman, the embodiment of Bhakti itself. Hanuman is the 11th incarnation of Lord Shiva, and as such is a perfectly free being with power and wisdom as vast the universe itself. But instead of becoming a Guru, as is his right, Hanuman chooses to remain in the role of servant, always placed at the Lotus feet of Lord Rama. If the goal is God, and God is love, then Bhakti is both the path and destination: “Those who worship Me without deviation, engaged in devotional service- for them I am the swift deliverer from the ocean of birth and death.”

(Bhagavad Gita 12: 6-7)

The centerpiece of a truly effective Yoga practice is Dhyana. Meditation is the process of quieting the ever-churning activities of the mind, and in that stillness uncovering the peace, clarity and joy that await us. Meditation has been called the most noble of pursuits because it serves to improve not only the practitioner, but the entire universe, and is the best practice someone can undertake to improve his/her life. If someone wants to help a tree to grow healthy and strong then they won’t try to water each individual leaf, twig and branch (such an endeavor would not only waste time, energy and water, but the tree would eventually die anyway). But if someone waters the roots, then the whole tree is nourished. Similarly, meditation feeds our souls, the root of our existence, and subsequently our entire being is sustained. Those who meditate regularly stimulate brain growth, have less stress, lower blood pressure, fewer heart problems, better sleep, and more peace.

Pictures taken of the brain waves of Buddhist monks who were at rest showed a brain chemistry which is identical to that of people who are in a heightened state of creativity (like artists, musicians and scientists). They also showed more neuroplasticity than those of the non-meditating subjects, which means that the brain can be rewired, contrary to what brain researchers have previously believed. In a world of noise and chaos meditation is like an internal reset button. Dhyanyogiji says meditation “is a way to find out who you are. Your mind becomes exhilarated. You gain greater peace of mind and relaxation. Your concentration also increases. It also increases efficiency of your day-to-day activities. Everything is better if you meditate.”

When the seeker integrates all these different branches of Yoga into his/her practice with faith, enthusiasm and consistency then this is called Raja (Royal) Yoga, said to be the highest path. And when the goal of Raja Yoga has been reached then all veils of illusion fall away, and the meaning of our existence becomes blissfully clear. As Shree Dhyanyogi stated: “One realizes the full potential of body and mind, attains inner peace, harmony and integration, and ultimately experiences the sublime truth of unity in diversity- the fact that all life is one and is bound by that divine power called love.”

When we have through the practice of Yoga thus reclaimed our true, divine birthright then can we truly call ourselves sons and daughters of God, scions of The King kings, and as princes and princesses of the universe apply the much needed salve to a our wounded world. It all begins, and ends, within.

Eric Noel Perez is a certified Yoga teacher. He teaches Yoga classes in the Bay Shore, New York area.

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Yoga for Christians – is it Bad?

Tuesday, March 1st, 2011

yoga teacher trainingBy Sangeetha Saran

For some Christians, the question of whether Yoga and its religious roots can be separated, poses a stumbling block. However, the practice of Yoga does not contradict Christian beliefs. Rather, Yoga can be used as an aid to living a more Christ-filled life.

The origins of Yoga should not be a problem for a Christian who is using the relaxation and exercise techniques to deepen his or her awareness of the Christian life. Yoga is a philosophy, and a way of life, not a religion. Yoga is a system of practices for the development of human potential and has become a valuable practice in the lives of people of all religious faiths.

Yoga can enrich the spiritual life of a Christian the same way as for a practicing Hindu or Buddhist. Yoga aids all who practice religion, by balancing the nervous system and calming the mind through its postures, breathing control, meditation, stretches and meditation. The practice of Yoga is comprehensive enough so that anyone can find techniques that will not conflict with his or her personal beliefs.

Practicing Christians should take from Yoga what makes sense to them and deepens their own faith and spiritual commitment. Today, Hatha Yoga is practiced by Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Moslems, Hindus and people of no particular religious affiliation.

Hatha yoga, originally developed to help people sit in meditation with a calmer body and a quieter, more focused mind, has all the elements of other forms of Yoga. Outside of India, the enhancement of spiritual beauty is rarely taught in Hatha Yoga.

For a Christian, two of the biggest obstacles to prayer are a restless mind and a restless body. Yoga addresses both of these obstacles. Physiologists tell us that the most effective way to unload tensions is through contraction and relaxation of the muscles and deep breathing; these are two basic elements of Hatha Yoga.

Practicing yoga has healthful benefits for everyone. The deep breathing, stretching, and strength-training exercises are wonderfully relaxing and beneficial to spiritual and emotional health. Yoga is unequivocally good for Christians when they use the elements of yoga to improve their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

By reducing tension and stress, Christians are able to give more time to prayer and Bible study. The meditational component of yoga can be used to meditate on biblical truths or passages, leading to peace and contentment. Yoga does not take anything away from Christians, but rather enables them to focus more deeply on their spiritual lives.

Yoga is India’s gift to the world, and it can be used selectively with benefits by people of different religious and philosophical beliefs.

© Copyright 2011 – Sangeetha Saran / Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

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Yoga and the Awakening of Consciousness

Tuesday, January 11th, 2011

Yoga teacher trainingBy Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Throughout the world, Yoga is better known as “Hatha Yoga” (unity of mind, body, and spirit through physical mastery). Do we understand how Yoga will awaken consciousness? Who wants to awaken his or her consciousness? Why should we awaken anything? Why are extremist groups so against awakening the consciousness of your mind? The following article takes a deeper look into the practice of Yoga for the purpose of awakening consciousness.

Do we understand how Yoga will awaken consciousness?

Unfortunately, there is still too much mystery regarding the higher forms of Yoga (Raja, Karma, Bhakti, and Jnana). All four of these forms of Yoga will help us awaken our consciousness. However, we can take a fresh view of the concept. Awakening was classically referred to as “unfolding.”

Imagine and visualize the mind as a rock. If this were the case, we would not change much because we would not have the ability to learn new ideas. We could live in the “Dark Ages.” We would refuse to accept new ideas, and we could accuse anyone with new ideas of being irreverent or impious. We could take great pride in stubbornness, ignorance, and being ill tempered.

The mind can be much like a rock, if we put our heads in the sand and refuse to see or hear. Yoga and meditation give us a ‘tried and true” method to unfold the layers of rock. Patanjali described Eight Limbs of Yoga, in the Yoga Sutras, and each limb is a method for unfolding the consciousness from within the mind.

Each limb Patanjali describes is important. There are no “short cuts.” The Yoga Sutras are a “map” to unfolding one’s consciousness. Yoga training and practice are crucial to opening the mind. There are other systems for training the mind; but if you trace their roots, most paths lead back to Yoga.

Who wants to awaken his or her consciousness?

These days, it is as hard to open consciousness as it ever has been in the past. Most people are easily distracted. Have you ever tried to hold a conversation with a person who has a smart phone beeping, buzzing, or ringing in his or her pocket? It is impossible to communicate with someone who is in the middle of multiple conversations.

Although we have access to more information than ever, we are bombarded by messages. As always, some of the messages we receive are erroneous. Who has time to decipher through the multitude of messages to find the pure truth? This constant barrage of misinformation is a significant force that drives people to make misinformed decisions.

Therefore, anyone should strive to unfold his or her mind. As Yoga practitioners, this requires us to disconnect from electronic devices for part of each day. The objective of opening the mind is no longer reserved to someone who teaches Yoga classes. Opening the mind, to what is happening around us, enables us to live a quality life.

Why should we awaken anything?

Some political and religious fundamentalists are against any kind of change. To them, everything is carved in stone, the old ways are the best ways, and compromise is a sign of weakness. Should we have continued on the path of social injustice and slavery?

Why are extremist groups so against awakening the consciousness of your mind?

It’s all about control. For example: The Dark Ages of Europe were a great time for extremists to suppress new ideas. Heaven forbid that anyone state: The Earth revolved around the Sun. At that time, to make any such statement about science or astronomy would be a reason to face an inquisition by civil authorities for the charge of “heresy.” Confessions were often extracted by torture; and the possible punishments for having an open mind could be imprisonment, hanging, or being burned at the stake.

Needless to say, awakening the consciousness through Yoga practice will help you and the rest of humanity. Yoga is very much a journey of self-discovery and its doctrine is non-violent. Beware of those who seek to divide us into conflicting groups. The path to happiness is walking the fine line of moderation for the advancement of humanity.

© Copyright 2011 – Paul Jerard / Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

To see our complete selection of Yoga teacher certification courses, please feel free to visit the following link.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/store/Teacher-Courses/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

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Yoga Teacher Courses – Train the Mind with Yoga

Sunday, January 2nd, 2011

Yoga Teacher TrainingBy Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

When we hear the phrase, “train the mind,” what comes to mind? Do we think of a change in behavior, morality, or intelligence? Higher forms of Yoga, such as Raja, Bhakti, Karma, and Jnana, can help us train the mind. Within all forms of Yoga are meditation techniques to develop the mind, as well.

Behavior

When considering behavior, there is always room for individual improvement. Unfortunately, none of us is perfect. Our perception of the objects around us has much to do with our personal behavior. Our inherent reactions to objects, or events, are different from one person to another. Two people hear the same message, but the mind’s unique level of awareness brings perception into clarity.

No matter how hard we try, we cannot translate the same message, in the same way, as the person beside us. One example of this is being a member of a book club. The members read the same book, but the club organizes meeting sessions to discuss various interpretations and increase the membership’s scope of intellectual abilities.

Diversity in interpretation also happens within groups, which read and examine scriptures. In the United States, the Supreme Court consists of one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. With nine extremely educated justices to interpret the law or the U.S Constitution, there is almost always a difference of opinion.

Enhancement of Intelligence

The enhancement of intelligence is a result of training the mind through study. This may happen in any form of Yoga, but Jnana Yoga encourages the aspirant to attain unity, through self-analysis and the investigation of speculative thought.

To study will increase one’s intelligence about a subject, but to study the Yogic system will bring about enhanced intelligence with regard to life. Yoga is a science of life. The more time one devotes to the study and practice of Yoga, the higher the odds are for accomplishing one’s intended purpose in life.

To be “book smart” is not enough to reach success in life. It is the application of knowledge toward all phases of life that tests a theory. Yoga and Yogic philosophy have moved far beyond theory. Yoga therapy has been successful, but a scientist wants to know: “why.”

Scientists, and some skeptics, argue that Yoga must now be tested on the other side of the Earth in order to collect enough data as to why it works. With every little step, Yoga has eventually been embraced by science and medicine as a system that works.

Moral Codes

The most neglected part of Yoga teacher training courses is a closer look at Yama and Niyama. In the Yoga Sutras, Maharishi Patanjali names Yama and Niyama as the first two limbs of Yoga. Yet, Universal moral codes are often over looked. Advanced students, especially Yoga teachers, should know differently. If each person reflected on the Universal principles of Yama and Niyama daily, we would suddenly have world peace.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

To see our complete selection of Yoga teacher certification courses, please feel free to visit the following link.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/store/Teacher-Courses/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

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Waiting for Miracles – Become a Yoga Teacher

Thursday, October 28th, 2010

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

As the global economy shifted money to protect banks, people hoped for miracles or leadership; but it became difficult for most of the public to witness miracles. At the same time, in Yoga classes, students kept attending for stress management and relief from panic attacks. Worry and fear can damage a whole society.

Many of us hope and pray for miracles. Some of us grew up hearing slogans, in the workplace, such as: “Work Hard, Be Faithful… You’ll Get Your Just Reward.” If we believed what we heard, we waited years for our just reward. Many people still wait for a miracle to happen or a just reward to fall into their laps.

Opportunities happen every day, but the untrained eye fails to see it. The problem being: Some of us became programmed to wait through long apprenticeships. Sooner or later, the company we worked for, would realize we took pride in our work, we worked hard, and we did a good job. We were programmed to wait for recognition.

Maybe the company we worked for closed, we became unemployed, or we became disenchanted with the company, and left.  To quote James Dee Richardson: “If hard work were really a virtue, then mules would be saints.” Does this mean we should endorse laziness? Absolutely not – perseverance is a great quality, but each of us should develop enhanced skills to recognize opportunities and potential miracles.

A chair Yoga teacher, who sees students gain an extra 10 to 20 years of quality life, after recovering from serious health problems, can attest to seeing miracles on a daily basis.

The same can be said for Yoga instructors, who teach children, pregnant students, athletes, or any other student. Teaching others to see beyond illusion, and to manage their lives, is also a miracle. To train a student, who learns to manage his or her own mind, creates fertile ground for our students to discover epiphanies.

It is easy to believe we are all helpless, or to become discouraged, due to past failures. On the other hand, all forms of Yoga make personal development possible. Yoga gives each of us the ability to realistically balance our lives between obstacles and opportunities. To have balance in our lives, gives us a realistic view of the ups and downs of life.

Perseverance, expectations, and passion, are all good qualities that often lead to success, but they are only separate components – if one does not have the ability to act at the right time.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

To see our complete selection of Yoga teacher training courses, please feel free to visit the following link.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/store/Teacher-Courses/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

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Yogic Self-Analysis for Phobias

Tuesday, October 5th, 2010

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

What is Yogic self-analysis? Whether we teach Yoga, or come to classes as a student, all of us learn more about ourselves in the process. All forms of Yoga enable a practitioner to engage in introspection. Self-observation is a part of Yoga practice – at the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels.

If a student has not learned to contemplate his or her desires, behavior, and thoughts, there may have been no guidance in this area of Yogic studies. To learn about one’s self, requires time to reflect and examine, without judging. It is easy to point out all of our past mistakes, but this is not the purpose of this mental exercise.

Self-analysis, or self-reflection, is a soul-searching quest for penetrating below the surface layer of our personality, and making a habit of improving situations that occur in the present. Some people find Yogic self-analysis to be a daunting task. They may require counseling from a qualified counselor, instead of trying to learn how to develop self-awareness.

There is nothing wrong with seeking professional guidance, for developing the skill of self-analysis. The point being: Each of us should strive to independently manage his or her life. This is not possible for all of us; but with proper guidance, many of us can learn to look directly at a problem and develop a plan for a logical solution.

Self-reflection is sometimes referred to as a form of meditation. To focus one’s thought process on introspection is, in fact, a form of meditation. The reasons why Yoga and meditation teachers shy away from guiding students toward self-analysis are because students may focus on negative experiences, or the teacher does not know much about this particular technique.

To come face-to-face with our weaknesses, or strengths, can be an intense experience. Our point of view may not be objective. In the case of phobias, our self-created fear causes anxiety, and a cycle of confusion follows flare-ups.

“How can self-analysis help me with my phobias?” Knowing our own strengths and weaknesses gives us an honest measurement, based upon reality; but we must practice non-judgment while we search for a way to solve, or improve, the situation. To some degree, phobias are caused by irrationally intense fear.

Yoga’s approach to self-analysis allows a student the ability to cope with internal fears, while a logical solution is sought. Ultimately, anyone who learns to fully overcome a phobia has learned a valuable lesson on the quest toward self-mastery. To find the master within is one of the greatest benefits of Yoga practice.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

To see our complete selection of Yoga teacher training courses, please feel free to visit the following link.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/store/Teacher-Courses/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

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Train Your Mind for Self Confidence with Hatha Yoga

Saturday, September 4th, 2010

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Hatha Yoga is one of the most popular forms of Yoga, worldwide; but the mental and emotional benefits are often overlooked. If you gathered 100 serious practitioners, most would admit that they identify with the physical benefits of Hatha Yoga. To pursue this point further, many Hatha Yoga students admit to having a mental and emotional disconnect for years before they developed higher levels of self-awareness.

Training the mind is more difficult than training the body. Asana benefits are felt by students of any age. Seniors and children, alike, feel the balance, strength, flexibility, and coordination they receive from daily practice. Pranayama is commonly referred to by Yoga teachers as the gateway to the mind and body connection.

Yet, the words fail to penetrate the mind. The reason this message does not come through clearly is communication and lack of awareness. If someone gave you a life- changing message; but you were not listening, or they failed to explain it in depth, the message never made a connection to the mind.

This form of communication failure is much like a dropped call on a cell phone – a good intention was made, but the message was not completed. Once the line of communication is open, how can you find answers to your inner most questions? What if your teacher has no time for your questions?

What is self-awareness, and how can it help you to develop self-esteem? Self-awareness is sometimes called “mindfulness,” which is a state of focusing on one task at a time. Living in the moment is a difficult task in this day and age. People constantly realize the stress of multi-tasking, but fail to do anything about it.

Here is a method to reduce multi-tasking and begin developing mindfulness. Write all of your tasks for tomorrow on a list, lap top, or smart phone. Work on, and complete them, one at a time. Notice that you actually accomplish more tasks and you feel good about yourself. The internal voice of self-confidence, within one’s mind, is powerful.

Developing self-awareness, and channeling it into self-confidence, is not a complicated formula. The hard part is to continue doing this mental exercise more than one day and to make a habit of training yourself to be mindful as often as possible. You could practice pranayama for self-awareness any time of the day, but people are so task- oriented, these days, that accomplishing goals gives them self-confidence almost instantly.

If you remember this formula, and practice it for one week, you will enhance your self-confidence exponentially. Yoga is humankind’s oldest personal growth system. All you are required to do is practice daily, on or off the mat, and you will see rewards one thousand fold.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

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AN OVERVIEW OF VINYASA YOGA AND ITS HEALTH BENEFITS

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

BY: NAYIA NAOUM

Yoga in Sanskrit, means “Union”. The Union of the Mind, Body and Spirit, working together in total harmony. It is an ancient practice of physical and spiritual development, which has originated approximately 5000 years ago. Yoga aims to integrate all aspects of the self, body with mind and mind with spirit, reaching the absolute state of joy and balance in one’s life.

Vinyasa Yoga is an extension of Hatha Yoga, the most popular form of Yoga in the West which focuses on postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation (dyana). Vinyasa Yoga has its origins in the legendary Yogi Krishnamacharya.

In Sanskrit, the prefix “Vi” means variation and the suffix “nyasa” means within set parameters. According to the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, these are: Steadiness (Sthira), Comfort (Sukha), and smooth and long breathing (Prayatna Sithila).

“Vinyasa” can be defined as breath-synchronized movement. It therefore represents a form of Yoga that links various poses together in a flow, and simultaneously synchronising each pose with the in-flow and out-flow of the breath. The breath is utilised as a harness in integrating body and mind.

Vinyasa Yoga differs from Hatha Yoga in that the movement-breath synchronisation produces a very dynamic effect in the cardiovascular system, resulting in the formation of internal heat, is faster paced, and challenges physical endurance.

The ultimate aim of Vinyasa Yoga is to cleanse body and mind and in doing so, to enlighten the spirit.

Even though some would argue it is quite challenging, it can be practiced by anyone irrespective of age or flexibility, always using intuition and mindfulness as a guide, moving towards progression gradually.

Practitioners of Vinyasa Yoga undoubtedly enjoy many of its health related benefits, on two levels: the physical level and the spiritual/emotional level.

On the physical level, Vinyasa Yoga provides a great body detoxification. This is attained through the internal heat that is produced during its practice, acting as a purification mechanism by expelling toxins from the muscles and organs through sweat. This internal heat reinforces blood flow to the essential organs, rejuvenating and revitalising them with amounts of oxygen supply. What’s more, the immune system is strengthened, reducing the likelihood of injuries. Muscles are loosened and joints, tendons and ligaments get sufficiently lubricated. This helps the practitioner to go deeper into a stretch and flexibility is increased through repeated practice.

Additionally, Vinyasa Yoga transforms the body since metabolism is accelerated, resulting in weight loss and the shaping and trimming of the body. Vinyasa Yoga could be actually compared to a strength training class that provides excellent muscle toning, but without all the violent movements of strength training found in the gym. The smooth, flow-like performance of the asanas prevents the production of lactic-acid which causes fatigue, as it is the case in other types of exercises. It also increases a person’s stamina and endurance when practiced regularly. In addition, Vinyasa Yoga practice massages all body organs such as the heart and the liver, in a way like no other exercise does, promotes good body posture, body alignment and balance and is an excellent energizer.

It has been proven that it can relieve or even expel chronic back pain or neck pain, can heal various injuries such as a pulled hamstring, can treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, improve diabetes, thyroid problems and bone density, ease menopause symptoms and act as a headache reliever. In relation to this, Vinyasa yoga can prevent re-injury and speeds the time of injury recovery.

Morever, the controlled yogic breathing adopted during Vinyasa Yoga practice can have a therapeutic effect since body cells charged with prana or life force can heal. More specifically, it can help individuals suffering from asthma or bronchitis, sinus issues, nervous tension, neurosis, insomnia, headaches, indigestion, abnormal weight, constipation and compulsive smoking.

Certain asanas have been known for their therapeutic powers as well, even though they should not be used as a substitute of medical treatment. For example it is said that asthma can be healed with Bow, Locust, Savasana, Mountain, Fish and Shoulderstand; Backache with Bow, Cobra, Fish, Headstand, Soulderstand, Supine poses, Thunderbolt, Wheel; Diabetes with Cobra, Savasana, Peacock Plough, Shoulderstand, Spinal Twist and Yoga posture; Menopause Disorders with Abdominal Uplift, Cat, Cobra, Savasana, Fish, Plough, Shoulderstand; Thyroid Disorders with Bride, Fish and Shoulderstand and the list goes on.

Also some Yoga postures strengthen the different secretion glands and the endocrine system at large. This is of great significance since full growth and function of the different parts of the body can only be achieved if there is a balanced activity in the secretion glands, otherwise pathological conditions are created.

Some of the main asanas used during a common Vinyasa Yoga practice and their specific beneficial effect on health are as follows: starting from Mountain Pose (Tadasana) with its various modifications, steadiness and balance is instilled to the practitioner and a sense of mental tranquillity is produced.

The Forward Bend (Uttanasana) stretches the posterior part of the body, improving the circulation in the rear muscles involved.

The Upward Facing Dog (Urdhwa Mukha Swanasana) strengthens the shoulders and arms and provides a good stretch to the anterior part of the body making the spine more flexible, whereas the Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Swanasana) gives the body a full posterior stretch and it sets the base for many other Vinyasa Yoga poses.

One Leg Yogasanas such as the Tree Pose (Vrikmasana) and Warrior Pose (Virabhadrasana) help to acquire a tremendous sense of balance since for efficient performance close attention and concentration are required, the same kind needed for meditation.

Supine Poses stretch the muscles, ligaments and nerves while trimming and strengthening the thighs, hips and abdomen. They also increase hip and spinal flexibility improve circulation and respiration, digestion and concentration.

The Bow Sequence (Dhanurasana) increases strength and flexibility along the entire length of the spine, stretches the neck, shoulders, arms and legs, massages the digestive organs, improves digestion, helps regulate the pancreas and is recommended for people with diabetes.

The Triangle sequences (Trikonasana), strengthen the legs considerably, stretch the groins, hamstrings, hips and open the chest and shoulders.

Finally, inverted poses are giving a boost and provide a toning effect to internal organs and muscles since their “antigravity” nature reverses the natural downward pulling of the muscles and internal organs which becomes even more profound with aging, and also stimulate the glandular/hormonal system, bringing vitality and balance.

Vinyasa Yoga also offers enormous benefits of an emotional / spiritual nature, acting as an agent of growth and transformation.

Firstly, the combined effect of staying in a pose along with pranayama and meditation, bring about a heightened state of relaxation and calmness, which in the long term aid in the development of a much calmer personality. The mind becomes an integral part of the whole process since it follows the smooth and deliberate ujjayi breathing, achieving “Samadhara” – a state of inner piece and joy. This help to reduce or even abolish stress and anxiety, the number one causes of various diseases in today’s hectic lifestyle.

It is very common today for people to have an “over stimulated” sympathetic nervous system or an overactive “fight or flight” response when stressed out, leading to the shortening of the breath, a raised blood pressure and the release of stress hormones like norepinephrine, with disastrous consequences on health. Yoga reverses the negative effects of an overexcited nervous system by reducing the breath rate and lowering blood pressure. By focusing on the breath the nervous system slows down. Our normal breathing rate is about fifteen breaths per minute, whereas the breathing rate in Vinyasa Yoga practice is reduced considerably. Beginners usually maintain a rate of six breaths per minute while experts can reach a rate of just two breaths per minute demonstrating extreme relaxation, even during a very complicated pose. As a result, depression tendencies can be cured and mood is moderated and the individual is able to take the wheel of his own life, gaining control and confidence.

A vast amount of energy is wasted by the excitation of lower emotions such as anger, keeping the body in constant readiness for work that is not necessarily useful. Thus, it is of vital importance to economise the energy produced by the body by learning how to relax. In Yoga, relaxation is threefold: physical – relaxing the muscles and internal organs, mental – quieting one’s intellect, and spiritual which represents the ultimate type of relaxation where one is able to withdraw from the body and mind and disconnect from the ego.

Children and teenagers can also benefit tremendously, by gaining a constructive perspective on how to approach difficult situations that may come their way, acquiring inner strength, a kind of “emotional intelligence”, from an early age. Through yoga, they become better able to focus and concentrate, are able to beat hypertension and their confidence and creativity are enhanced.

Throughout a yoga workout one takes the time to focus inwardly, taking time for himself /herself and away from the outside world, something of great value in today’s busy lifestyle. This helps a clustered mind gain mental clarity and perspective, improving concentration and memory. Yogic meditation strengthens the mind and tasks and activities are more effectively managed and executed. The intellect is purified through stillness and concentration of mind.

As opposed to a gym class, yoga is a non-competitive activity, but it rather promotes “oneness” and the uniqueness of individuality. No one looks the same in a pose and that’s the beauty of Yoga. No one is better or worse than the other, but each is moving into a pose according to his / her abilities at that given moment. It is an inward process not an outward process, therefore the focus is on the “I”, not on what another one looks like in the pose. One should never force or strain or push too hard. Rather, the Vinyasa Yoga practitioner should be aware of his or her physical limitations or possible disabilities.

Furthermore, Vinyasa and also other kinds of Yoga help us become more compassionate about our surroundings and fellow human beings. Control over our thoughts helps us to suppress materialism and the urge to achieve more material things, but make us want to achieve more “food” for the soul. Finally, through Vinyasa and other forms of Yoga we achieve self-realization and come to see how we are an integral part of the Universe. It helps us understand we are One with others, the environment and nature. This makes us feel at peace with ourselves, bringing harmony and emotional stability in our lives. Through Yoga, one is able to uncover one’s “Atman” or True Self, and this self-realization brings freedom and liberation.

Most would agree that the supreme benefit of Yoga of any type, is “the union of the individual spirit with the universal spirit, the finding of one’s essential nature beyond empirical ego, which has to be dissolved and the seeing and experiencing of the grounds of one’s being” – (James Hewitt, 1997).

Yoga should be practiced regularly and be carried outside the yoga studio and off the mat, since it is a life changing philosophy and not a matter of an hour’s practice in the class. Even though it requires determination and self-discipline, the benefits it brings to a person’s physical and mental health, result in a much superior quality of life, bringing joy, contentment and balance in one’s life.

References

Hewitt, James. The Complete Yoga Book. New York, Schocken Books,1977.

Ramaswami, Srivatsa. The Complete Book of Vinyasa Yoga, Da Capo Press, 2005

Swami, Vishnu-devananda. The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga. New York, Three Rivers Press, 1988.

Jerard, Paul. The Truth About Vinyasa Yoga. 7 Sept. 2005. Available from: http://ezinearticles.com

Weisbrot, Amy. The Health Benefits of Yoga. 12 July 2010. Available from: www.yoga-teacher-trainining.org

Benefits of Vinyasa Yoga / Vinyasa Flow Yoga. Available from: http://yoga-health-benefits.blogspot.com

Benefits of Yoga. Available from: http://www.targetwoman.com

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How to Begin Your Practice in a Safe Yoga Class

Thursday, July 15th, 2010

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

There are many different forms of Yoga. Some Yoga styles focus on development of mental and spiritual growth. Some focus on physical development, as a stepping stone toward development of mental and spiritual growth; while other Yoga styles focus on every aspect of growth. A few of the physical styles teach Yoga as little more than an exercise.

With this much diversity in styles of Yoga, a new student would be wise to do a significant amount of research, before beginning a practice. Yet, many people do more research about the features of their new cell phone, than they do before walking into a new Yoga class.

Outside of India, Hatha Yoga, and its sub-styles, are the most well-known styles. The Hatha sub-styles are known by names, such as: Sivananda, Iyengar, Restorative, Viniyoga, Kripalu, Bikram, and many more. These styles vary, in comparison, from extremely physical to therapeutic.

With that said, it is always best to cover your concerns with a prospective Yoga teacher, and find out if the style taught will meet your needs. New students, and those who have pre-existing injuries, should arrive early (at least 20 minutes before class time) in order to complete forms, and discuss any health concerns.

Some Yoga schools have very informative web sites, but the Internet appearance of a studio cannot give you an accurate indication of what it is like to participate in a class. Some schools have much to offer, while some may not cater to the needs of students, as individuals.

There are a number of rights students need to be aware of. The doors of the studio are not bolted shut. You have the right to leave at any time; especially, if you are feeling a complete lack of compassion on the part of your Yoga teacher. In fact, you have legal rights to prevent being harassed. As a student, you have the right to talk to your teacher – especially, if you have health concerns, about any Yogic techniques.

The student and teacher relationship is founded on mutual respect. If a Yoga teacher does not show courtesy toward students, do you really want to be in this class? A Yoga instructor’s ability to observe, give compassionate advice, and make timely assists, speaks volumes about the quality of instruction you will receive.

Credentials mean absolutely nothing if a Yoga teacher has no regard for the safety of his or her students. No amount of certification, registration, or accreditation can make up for a Yoga instructor, who leaves students in harm’s way.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

For information about Yoga teacher training courses or to join our online Yoga community, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/

FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter. FREE Yoga Videos. Free Podcasts. Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, “Yoga in Practice.”

FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste.

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