Posts Tagged ‘teaches yoga’

Yoga and Pregnancy

Saturday, March 3rd, 2012

yoga teacher trainingBy Erika Bugakova

The journey through pregnancy is a time of great physical, mental and emotional change for each individual, each in her own unique way. Despite one’s previous yoga experience, whether an advanced practitioner or completely new to the practice, yoga adapted for pregnancy can help ease the way through these changes, relaxing and balancing the mind, and strengthening the body to prepare for the joys and challenges which lie ahead, both during and after pregnancy.

As pregnancy is divided into 3 trimesters, the variations and yoga adaptations, which should be used, are also separated into three categories; early pregnancy (1-16 weeks), mid pregnancy (16-34 weeks), and late pregnancy (34-40 weeks). Yoga practice of course can similarly be continued in the postnatal weeks, using variations to regain strength, and assist the body in reaching its normal state, while at the same time adjusting to a new life with child.

However, before discussing each stage throughout pregnancy, there are a few main points to follow throughout the entire journey. First of all, and most importantly, during pregnancy, it is not the time to excel, push for new poses, and stretch further than before. All poses, and exercises should be done in a way, which makes the practitioner feel calm, joyful, and at peace. The body is the best indicator of trouble, and one should listen closely to its signals. Any pose, which causes any type of pain or discomfort, should be avoided. When practicing pranayama, the breath should never be held, just as inhalation and exhalation should never be forced. The heart and lungs throughout pregnancy are already working overtime, due to changes in the body and the need to support two lives, therefore exerting extra energy from them, through breathing exercises, or asana practice can only be detrimental.

Secondly, throughout pregnancy, extra attention should be paid to the alignment of the spine. Most people in everyday life have some sort of misalignment in the spine, which can cause great pain and discomfort. However, during pregnancy, with the addition of extra weight over time, and a shift in balance points, it is evermore important to continuously work to re-align the spine, preventing as much unnecessary discomfort as possible. While we will later mention specific exercises, which can be used at different stages of pregnancy to help keep the spine in proper form, one thing to always keep in mind is proper posture whenever in a sitting position. Though it may seem tiring, and the desire to slouch and relax will often arise, it is best to remain perfectly upright at all times to strengthen the back muscles and prevent discomfort later in pregnancy.

Finally, from the very beginning to after the baby is born, breathing will play a great role in pregnancy. Deep breathing is an excellent tool for toning the body, both inside and out, using very little effort. Breathing exercises help soothe the mind through difficulties, allow one to become more aware of the body, and its changes, and can help create a sense of well-being and comfort, which will not only benefit the mother, but those supporting her as well. Deep breathing is also essential in toning the pelvic muscles, allowing them to increase in elasticity, and become stronger to support the baby in the latter months of pregnancy. Working with pranyama to tone these muscles is the most effective way to ensure a smooth and easy birth, while at the same time helping to adjust to the emotional changes each stage of pregnancy may bring.

The first stage of pregnancy, from 1 to 16 weeks, contrary to what many may believe, is a time for the most relaxed yoga practice. During these first weeks, the most significant hormonal changes are taking place in the mother’s body, and the baby is experiencing the most vital stages of development as the nervous system is formed. Mothers often experience a great amount of tiredness, and nausea during this period, so it is best to back off from strenuous activity, and focus on slow, flowing, relaxing movement accompanied by deep breathing exercises.

As previously mentioned, proper alignment of the spine is essential during pregnancy, especially during the early months, as it will provide a strong foundation as the baby begins to grow. Several postures and series, which keep the body calm and relaxed, may be performed to correct any asymmetry in the spine early on. For example, a series based on the half bridge pose can be used. On each inhale; the hips and pelvis are lifted high into the air, slowly and gently; first straight up. On the second inhalation, the left hip and pelvic bone is lifted much higher than the right, and then the right side higher than the left. This series is repeated, and then followed by a few moments of complete relaxation. Relaxation periods should be done in the most comfortable way possible. Cushions and pillows may be used under the head, neck, lower back and/or knees to remove any discomfort or tension.

Two more examples of poses one may find useful during the first trimester are spinal rolls and triangle postures. Spinal rolls are a gentle way to again, help realign the spine, as well as tone and massage the abdominal and lower back muscles. These can be used as a replacement for deep-seated twists, which may cause discomfort during pregnancy. Triangle pose is one that can be safely performed throughout pregnancy, and has special benefits of increasing one’s breathing capacity and may also be helpful in preventing or relieving heartburn. This pose can additionally be performed in a dynamic series, from one side to the other to aid in further loosening the muscles.

One position to take precaution with is the shoulder stand. Even for one who has long performed this asana, in the first stage of pregnancy, it is best to take a lighter, adapted approach to avoid unnecessary strain. For the adapted version, a large pillow or cushion should be placed up against a wall, in order to support the hips, while the upper back, head and neck lay on the floor. Knees should be kept bent, and with gradual breathes in and out, the feet can press against the wall to lift the hips and lower back up off the pillow. This practice holds many benefits for the mother, opening the chest and abdomen, and stimulating circulation, particularly in the pelvic and leg regions.

While there are several other poses and variations, especially beneficial during this period of pregnancy, it is most important to keep relaxation and easy motions in mind.

The second stage of pregnancy, from 16 to 34 weeks, is a time to energize and strengthen the body, preparing it support a growing baby and build self confidence throughout this period. One of the most energizing series in yoga, the sun salutations can easily be adapted for pregnant women, to invigorate, strengthen and tone the entire body. Key adaptations are the following: when lowering down, rather than a forward bend, the knees should be bent, hands taken down to the floor and then walked forward into downward facing dog. Also, plank and eight-pointed pose should be avoided, as they put too much strain on the abdominal muscles, and, may not be physically possible at this point. These poses in the series may be replaced by child’s pose, with knees spread apart to make room for the growing stomach. Throughout the series, rest can be taken whenever necessary, even between each posture, in child’s pose.

Standing dynamic twists can also provide mothers-to-be with a satisfying stretch and energy boost. Twisting side-to-side, moving arms up and down, or diagonally greatly tone the side abdominal muscles, which will help support the uterus as it expands. Here is an excellent point to incorporate breathing with practice, associating each inhalation or exhalation with one movement, making sure to bend the knees while rotating for side to side.

During this energetic period of pregnancy, triangle poses, warrior poses and tree poses are all excellent ways to continue building strength in the spine, stretching the sides and abdomen to make way for growth, and to help maintain balance as the body expands and the natural center of balance is shifted. Experienced yogis may practice all of these postures in their original form, so long as now tiredness or discomfort is felt. However, it is also possible to alter these postures with the aid of a chair as prop. During the triangle pose, the chair may be used to raise the leg, or may be placed under the knee towards which you are bending, to provide extra balance and stability; the same can be done with tree posture. Similarly with the warrior poses, a chair may be placed under the thigh of the forward facing leg, to help support the weight of the body, giving less pressure to the knee joints, and assuring proper spinal and pelvic alignment.

As with all practices, attention should be given to sitting postures, in this stage, with much concentration on expanding and stretching the pelvic region. This is also a time to seriously begin working the pelvic muscles, to help support the growing baby. These can be done in cooperation with breathing exercises. While positioned in cat pose, raise the tailbone as high as is possible, and focus on individually tightening and releasing the pelvic muscles one at a time. Inhale and squeeze the anal muscles, exhale, inhale and focus on the urethra, exhale, inhale and tighten the vaginal muscles. This cycle can be repeated several times. Additionally, these same strengthening muscles can be performed in a seated position as well.

Finally, late pregnancy, from 34 to 40 or more weeks, is a time to focus on staying in shape, keeping relaxed and comfortable as the baby prepares to make its way into the world. As previously mentioned, alignment and the back are essential focuses, especially during these last few weeks, when the body is much heavier. Many adaptations can be made to poses to protect the lower back from unnecessary pain and discomfort. Sun salutations, for example, can be adjusted in the following manner. During standing positions, the legs should be placed a bit more than hip-length apart, and the knees always kept slightly bent, with the spine straight of course. A similar change can be made to the downward dog pose. Legs wider apart, and knees kept slightly bent. Here, the bent legs can be lifted to the side, one by one, to provide a great hip and groin opener. Furthermore, when performing the runner position, in the series, the foot should be placed outside the hand, rather than between the two hands, and the knee and leg can gently fall to the side, also opening up the hips, and pelvic region.

Another important, energizing pose, is the warrior, which can be performed with the aid of a wall. Face a wall in warrior I position, and place forearms on the wall. In the position, 4 breaths should be taken, and the practitioner should press against the wall on each exhalation. Next, the arms are folded, and placed along with the forehead against the wall. Deep breaths to expand the rib cage should be observed here. If feeling tired, these positions may also be done kneeling on one knee, facing the wall.

These poses energize, strengthen the back, and stretch the back leg muscles.

Of course, several other positions exist which can be used during this period of pregnancy. The majority of them will focus on relieving and preventing discomfort to the spine, widening the pelvic region, and keeping the mother relaxed and happy as she prepares for the final stages of birth.

As a last point, throughout pregnancy, the body goes through several changes, and there are bound to be some unpleasantries, which can be relieved with the aid of yoga. Below are listed some of the most common.

Heart Burn: opening up the chest can relieve Heartburn, raising the sternum and opening up the shoulder blades. In early pregnancy, this can be done by sitting, facing the back of a chair, pulling the shoulders back, and deep breathing for 6 breaths, then allowing the body to flop forward over the chair to relax. In late pregnancy, a large cushion can simply be placed behind, and lay back to pull the shoulders back, and open up the chest, while taking deep breaths.

Backache: The most effective positions for relieving back pain are child’s pose with arms extended forward, knees spread apart. And following by a cat series, on all fours.

Weak Bladder: starting on all fours, and crossing the right leg over the left can help this problem. Then weight should be made even between the hand and left knee, breathing deeply, tightening the pelvic muscles on the inhale, and even more so on the exhale. After 6 breaths, release the muscles. This should be repeated 3 times a day for maximum benefits.

Insomnia: Especially during the late stages of pregnancy, it may be difficult to relax and fall asleep. Leg exercises are very effective in helping one to sleep. From a cat position, extend the legs up and back, alternatively, keeping the head and spine in line. Also, from a dog pose, with knees wide and bent, walk the feet up towards the hands, and back away, back and forth a few times. This should be followed by a few minutes resting in child’s pose.

Using yoga throughout the pregnancy process can truly help create a joyful and pleasant experience for the mother. Keeping fit, relaxed, and in tune with your body and your growing baby will allow for minimal stress, pain and discomfort as one makes this amazing journey, no matter what previous experience one has had with yoga.

Erika Bugakova is a certified Yoga teacher. She teaches Yoga classes in the Canadensis, Pennsylvannia area.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in prenatal yoga articles | No Comments »

Yoga and Its Relation to Health – An Overview

Saturday, October 15th, 2011

yoga teacher trainingBy Barbara J. Euser

Yoga is a complete system for improving the health of the body and the mind. Although many people begin to practice yoga for its physical benefits, they immediately begin to learn that yoga is much more than an exercise program. Yoga offers psychological benefits through the practice of the asanas and also through meditation, which may be part of all Yoga classes. Ultimately, Yoga moves beyond physical and mental health to include spiritual improvement and well-being. Yoga is so rich and complex that it is more correctly referred to as a way of life – a very healthy way of life.

On the physical side, yoga asanas are a gentle form of exercise that allows the gradual stretching of muscles: forward bends, back bends, twists and inversions from seated, standing and prone positions. The body itself provides resistance, so there is no need for additional equipment like the weights used in other exercise programs. Unlike the violent muscle movements advocated in other physical exercise programs, Yoga is non-violent and moderately paced. Bodies toned by yoga exercise are strong without overdeveloped muscles. They are supple from stretching in every direction.

Each of the asanas benefits one or more of the body’s systems: respiration, circulation, alimentation or elimination. As one performs the various asanas, circulation increases. Blood flows more freely throughout the entire body and circulatory problems may begin to correct themselves. If a practitioner has certain health issues, they can be addressed through the choice of asanas that are known to benefit that condition. For example, a number of asanas such as Knees to the Chest, Plough Posture (Halasana) and Child Posture aid digestion and help to correct constipation.

Yoga asanas can be done at any level from the most basic to the most advanced. As coordination and mobility increase and muscles become more flexible and supple, the practitioner can perform more difficult asanas. A number of asanas can be seen as a series of poses that move from less challenging to more challenging. For example, in Tree Pose (Vrksasana) at the easiest level, the hands are held in prayer position. Next, the hands are held over the head. Then Tree may become Toppling Tree as the practitioner becomes more stable moving about while balancing on one leg. From Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana), one may drop one’s legs into Plough Position and move through several variations of Plough before returning to Shoulder Stand. Head Stand (Sirsasana) may be done with vertical legs, spread legs, horizontal legs, folded legs, legs in Lotus Position, and body twists.

Many of the most difficult asanas are beyond the ability of those who have practiced for many years. The challenge never disappears. Although Yoga may prove endlessly challenging for the fit, it is also infinitely adaptable. Yoga can be adapted for practice with children, pregnant women and the aged. Yoga asanas may be adapted for people who have limited mobility, for example, people who are grossly overweight. They may begin a Yoga practice sitting in a chair. They may be able to do only the arm movements of the postures to begin with. They may use the chair to assist them with their balance in standing asanas. They may not be able to get up from being seated on the floor, but with aid of a chair to prop their legs on, they may be able to approximate some seated asanas. The success they achieve with these modified postures may inspire them to do more and eventually begin to tackle their most significant health issues. From children through adults, from pregnant women to those have impaired mobility to the aged, everyone benefits from the physical exercises including breath control. Yoga – like health – is a lifelong pursuit.

Breathing deeply and fully is one of the most basic elements of good health. Unfortunately, because breathing is accomplished automatically, unless people begin to practice yoga or meditation, they often remain unaware of how they breathe. The study of pranayama in yoga is critical to maintaining good health. Yoga increases our awareness of how we breathe. Once we become aware of how we breathe, we can begin to breathe consciously, aware of each inhale, each exhale and the pauses in between inhaling and exhaling. Yogis have determined that there is an ideal ratio for the phases of breathing. Exhalation should take twice as long as inhalation and the pause between inhalation and exhalation should be four times as long as inhalation. Thus the ideal ratio is 1:4:2. One is not expected to achieve this ratio instantly. As one begins to work with the breath, one can use a ratio of 1:2 for inhalation and retention, then move to 1:4. With exhalation the ratio can be 1:4:4 until one can manage 1:4:2. This way of breathing is far from the way we ordinarily breathe. It requires practice to fully breathe into the diaphragm, as most of us normally breathe into only the upper part of our lungs. We tend to ignore our diaphragms. Learning to breathe in Yoga is learning to breathe for the first time.

As people age and become less active, their breathing tends to become more and more shallow. If they do not exert themselves from time to time so that they have a reason to breathe deeply, their lungs are never fully inflated. The unused areas of the lungs become susceptible to disease and infections such as pneumonia. However, practitioners of yoga learn to breathe into the deepest parts of their lungs and keep oxygen flowing throughout the entire respiratory system.

Pranayama may be performed as a separate practice, or pranayama exercises may be included in a Yoga class. Additional pranayama exercises include breathing through one nostril, breathing in alternate nostrils, and breathing through alternate nostrils and retaining breath. After one does pranayama exercises, even though one returns to normal breathing, the element of increased awareness remains. If people can maintain healthy breathing habits, they can live fuller lives for a longer time.

Yoga advocates a healthy diet: fruit, nuts, grains, vegetables, pulses and milk products including butter, yogurt and cheese. The yoga diet does not include meat, poultry, fish, eggs or alcohol. According to Yoga, there are three categories of food. The food that Yogis consume is called Sattvic, or pure food. The category of food that contains meat, poultry, fish and eggs is called Rajasic. This category also contains spicy food and strong-flavored food. The third category of food is called Tamasic. This category includes foods that are rotten or overripe. This category is considered the worst category of food for people to consume. Unfortunately, for meat to become tender, it is often allowed to age, which is synonymous with beginning to rot. Eating meat in this case is not only Rajasic, it is Tamasic food.

If Yoga practitioners cannot become complete vegetarians, at least they can consciously limit the amount of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and alcohol they consume to a modest amount. Or they may consume small amounts of eggs and fresh fish and forego aged red meat. There are many possible compromises. Again, consciousness of our diet, like consciousness of breathing, enables us to control that aspect of our lives. Even in their diet Yoga practitioners are non-violent.Yoga practitioners are vegetarian because they believe it is a healthier diet and also because they abhor the violence of killing animals for food.

Because of their diet and breathing and exercise, yoga practitioners begin to appear differently. Their bodies respond to the physical demands of asanas, becoming thinner and more flexible. As they breathe deeply, they more fully oxygenate the blood that flows throughout their bodies and their skin looks healthier. Then physical changes connect to mental changes. The slow, thoughtful movements of yoga asanas promote a calming of the spirit. As our bodies adopt the rhythm of vinyasa – asana flow – and focus on pranayama – breathing – our minds become more centered. Calm, centered minds are better able to deal with the elements of stress we encounter in our daily lives.

The physical practice of Hatha Yoga leads naturally to the practice of Raja Yoga: meditation. A part of each yoga class can be devoted to meditation, either guided or unguided. As pranayama increases awareness of what is going on in our lungs, meditation increases awareness of what is going on in our minds. As we become aware of the incessant, unconnected thoughts streaming through our minds – the “monkey chatter” – we can learn to release those thoughts and, as a result, release our minds from the stress those thoughts cause.

When we practice Yoga meditation, we sit comfortably on the ground, legs crossed in a position we can maintain for the duration of the meditation. For some people this is the Easy Position, for others it may be Lotus (Padmasana) position. Those who are uncomfortable crossing their legs may sit with their legs folded underneath them in Thunderbolt position. Those who cannot sit on the ground can sit in a straight-backed chair with their feet flat on the ground. The important thing is to ground oneself – preferably in actual contact with the ground. The spine should be straight to allow energy to flow up and down unimpeded.

Yoga meditation requires concentration (Dharana), which may be on a point which one sees with one’s eyes, such as a candle flame or flower blossom in Trataka; on an audible sounds or series of sounds, as in Mantra meditation; or on a visual form such as a mandala in Yantra meditation. While we concentrate in meditation, our feelings of stress are suspended.

Some doctors believe that all physical illness arises from stress. According to Dr. Ben Johnson, “We’ve got a thousand different diagnoses and diseases out there. They’re just the weak link. They’re all the result of one thing: stress. If you put enough stress on the chain and you put enough stress on the system, then one of the links breaks.” As we relieve stress through meditation, we not only improve our mental health, we increase our potential for physical health. Yoga teaches us that our mental and physical systems are intrinsically linked: they are one.

The ultimate goal of yoga is to allow the practitioner to become one with God, Atman, Higher Consciousness, The Force. In that sense, physical and mental health are only by-products of the journey – but what valuable by-products they are!

Barbara J. Euser is a certified Yoga teacher.  She teaches Yoga classes in Lakonia, Greece.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Yoga for Health | No Comments »

Yoga and its Relation to Health

Saturday, March 26th, 2011

cape cod yoga retreatBy Jane Pollard

There are many differing types of yoga, each has its own uniqueness, they all however have a tendency to overlap and fuse. The meaning of yoga is union, a coming together of mind, body and spirit. Many people today see yoga as a yuppie trend; however more and more people are awakening to yoga and the huge benefits it can bring to our lives and the lives of those living with us and around us.

The benefits of yoga act upon three elements, the physical, the mental and of course the spiritual. The benefits of yoga are endless and each person will experience differing benefits, depending on their age, anatomical makeup and level of experience, but one thing is certain, the list of benefits will go on and on.

Yoga bridges the sexes, religion and the age barriers and is open and available to all who embrace it, it is now widely available in private sessions, gyms and in halls and venues all over the world. The world that we live in today, is a far cry from the world our parents and grandparents experienced.

Today we live in a world of unrelenting commerce, finance, peer pressure and a race to achieve at all costs. Computers and mobile telephones, take over our lives, with e mails, social networking sites, computer games and large amounts of electronic chatter, numbing and dulling our senses, ability and creativity and blocking us from reaching our full potential as human beings.

At the same time, we are driven longer and harder by the fact we make ourselves available to disturbance wherever we are, by the fact we are now contactable 24/7/365 to anyone who wants us, via mobile telephone, texts and emails, when do we switch off, can we switch off? Even when we are on holiday, a trip we have planned months in advance, a trip to switch off, enjoy the fruits of our labour, this intrusion still exists, never really allowing a cut off point, a breathing space a time to relax and reflect.

People today can travel long distances to get to their place of work, adding to the already longer working day, driving now is so very stressful and equally, dangerous. The stress of driving can be felt by most of us, even those who travel relatively short distances. Competitiveness in every aspect of our lives is also a massive strain, to earn more money, to have a better car, a bigger house, a better job, this competitiveness and materialistic approach, eventually causes us to lose sight of why we are here, we lose our way.

The result of this stress and strain can be seen all around us, if we take the time to observe. Meltdown, nervous breakdowns, stress, anxiety, miscarriage, depression, compulsive nervous disorders, suicide, divorce. I believe each and every one of us have someone we know who has experienced one or more of the above and you will know how this has affected their life and the lives of the people they live with and know.

To combat the above, some people take drugs, prescription and illegal, they smoke excessively, drink themselves into oblivion, and gamble and it is a vicious and precarious downward spiral that seems too difficult to escape from. The effect this has on the body, is truly profound. It affects our adrenals, as we are permanently tuned in to fight or flight mode.

This in itself puts enormous strain on our heart and can cause heart attack or stroke. It can affect all of our vital organs, it affects our ability to think clearly and make logical decisions and choices and it affects our feeling of being alive and blocks our creativity. Our body is being controlled, not by us, but by external forces, alcohol, drugs etc. We are not in control; we cannot make proper choices and decisions, which further has sometimes, catastrophic outcomes.

Our life goes into free fall; we are out of control and can only watch in apathy. We are alive, but we are not living. Stress can seriously hamper our life and our life’s progress, tiring us out with illnesses and insomnia. The practice of yoga has truly positive effects on our life and those around us and this acts on a very deep level. The gentle stretching and sometimes challenging poses, allow our muscles to release deep seated tension that is being held there.

Yoga works on every muscle group, thus giving us much more flexibility and over time allows us to feel more power and strength in our limbs and allows a greater scope of flexibility and movement. This means that the spine is nourished and strengthened, allowing better posture. Age is often measured by the flexibility of the spine, so having a healthy flexible spine is indeed a great asset.

Feeling strong and flexible in the body, makes the individual confident and much healthier and younger, the feeling of a renewed energy and power to do more will flow through and make a positive difference to the life we lead. Yogic breathing allows us to breathe in a way that we have probably never been open to before. This deep breathing brings in rich oxygen to the lungs, expanding them to a new level and filling them with prana.

This in turn strengthens the nervous system and the brain assisting our health further. Breathing out very deeply and fully, detoxifies the stale air lying within the lungs and with each new deep breath, new clean rich oxygen, reaches new areas of our lungs, which is of such benefit to all parts of our body; it broadens the chest as well as improving the whole process of digestion.

The focus and awareness that yoga training brings within those peaceful, deliberate, elegant movements, just us and our mat, that being at one, have a deeply spiritual and calming effect on the whole body, the muscles are stretched, the joints are lubricated, this in turn brings a new flexibility.  Mobility and coordination becomes improved and this in turn alleviates stiffness and difficulty in movement.

Peace, relaxation, harmony and deep preparation and meditation, these focus the mind, allow clear thinking, lower the blood pressure and take the strain away from the heart. This then allows all of the organs in our body to go back to normal mode, instead of that dangerous and constant fight or flight mode. The relaxing meditation at the end of each session, allows the body to assimilate all of the changes that the yoga practice has brought about.

We relax, we let go completely, and we simply just be. The act of meditation can be considered as mental hygiene, so we should consider meditating during and outside of our Yoga practice, to ensure that we maximise the wonderful benefits this can bring into our lives, clearing out the masses of mental clutter we all carry with us. Over time with our yoga practice, we begin to make changes, it is almost like a metamorphosis, we stop smoking, perhaps even stop drinking, we begin naturally to eat and drink more healthily, we begin to assess our lives and often make radical changes to the way in which we live on a day to day basis.

Nature becomes more important, we can go out and fill our lungs with fresh clean air and notice the beauty that is all around us that possibly we have never even enjoyed or noticed before and whilst doing this and leaving all of the stress behind, we can achieve further exercise. Walking in nature is itself a form of meditation and so we will be doubling the effect of our stress relief and the benefits we get from this.

Many other changes will be made, often these are unconscious decisions, but they will be made, it is a new progression. Our lives become richer, much healthier; we will become less stressed, calmer and will be less likely to carry excess weight. We will enjoy a new level of flexibility, which in turn allows us to be more mobile and affords us new avenues of life, we did not have before. The benefits to us are, we will have more energy, feel younger and more alive, have new levels of alertness and creativity, again opening new channels, new directions, new doors open up to our lives.

We open ourselves up to 100% of the opportunities and possibilities that are all around us. We will automatically feel youthful and it will directly have an effect on our whole body from our face to our toes, a new spring in our step. We will cut down the risk of liver and kidney failure, heart attack and of course stroke. Yoga is now a great part of a great deal of people’s lives as a way of living. Yoga can be completed in the home, in the office as well as in the studio; you can meditate anywhere, except when driving of course. Yoga books, CDs and DVDs are in abundance, as are the differing types of yoga.

There are now dedicated magazines to inform and educate us as to all of the benefits that are available to all of us and keep us fresh with new ideas and inspirational stories of peoples’ real experiences with yoga. Yoga is now being introduced into senior homes and schools, which is so beneficial to all, young children can now be educated at a very young age, as to the health benefits yoga can bring and they can weave this into their lives into adulthood, passing on to their families a whole new cycle of awareness, creating a much more healthy and aware society.

In senior homes, it is giving a new purpose and focus to its residents and allowing them gently to feel and experience the benefits yoga practice can give, especially in terms of mobility and flexibility and this cannot be ignored. Yoga can bring a wealth of benefits into our life for our health both mind, body and spiritual health.

Knowledge is power and yoga gives us tremendous power as an individual and can pave the path for many, to spiritual enlightenment and pave the way for a whole new and enlightening experience. Yoga gives the body physical health from the inside out, and is a complete physical health package.

Jane Pollard is a certified Yoga teacher. She teaches Yoga classes in the Wirral, Merseyside, UK area.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Yoga for Health | 2 Comments »

Yoga: The Optimal Health System

Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011

yoga instructor certificationBy Justin Benson

In our Western society we are constantly being bombarded with being healthy, whether that is to be strong, thin, flexible, agile, faster, smarter or in any way better. However, though all these messages are constantly being thrown at us, we as a society are never really given a way to achieve this goal. Yes, we are offered different things from power drinks to keep us awake, drinks to make us lose weight, drinks to make us smarter, and more pills to fix any other growing problem. It is really at this point that it should be argued that these healthy things that our society wants from us are in no way impossible to achieve, but are rather simpler to fix than could have ever been imagined and that is why I am going to present the argument for “Yoga as the optimal health system for all”. I can hear some of the critics now, I am too young, old, inflexible or manly, too busy etc., but Yoga can deal with all these worries and anxieties and more. Yoga is no longer just an Eastern science, but a science that is now available to everyone from the young to the old; it offers meditation techniques to combat stress and high blood pressure, ways to stay physically fit and healthy, ways to stay mentally fit and able to face everyday challenges, and even rounds it off with the ultimate exercise which is a spiritual one. From everything mentioned above it is just as the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali says, “From contentment one gains supreme happiness” (Patanjali 2: 42) which is what Yoga can offer us all.

The young are one area that the world should take time to slow down and truly examine. Our family units usually have both caregivers working which does not allow for as much time for moral and ethical instruction, and because of this the young are turning to television, movies and video games for answers, and unfortunately, they are oftentimes coming to the horrible conclusion that the world is not a beautiful place but one to fear which in turn breeds aggression and hatred. These fears have become so great that we are now seeing children on drugs rarely given to the young some 20 years ago ranging from anti-depressants to more severe mood altering drugs. However, this does not have to be the case, and that is why Yoga is a great thing to teach to the young. In Patanjali’s Yoga sutra he writes, “By abiding in nonviolence, one’s presence creates an atmosphere in which hostility ceases” (Patanjali 2:35). With this statement alone the doubters of Yoga should really stop and reflect on his words. The youth of this world would no longer fear because of the peacefulness which surrounds them and which is generated by them, and what’s more is that when people view these young students, especially those their own age they are going to stop and wonder what it is that is going on, and by doing so they will further advance the science which is Yoga; which will in turn continue to create a world with fewer fears, anxieties and hatreds that lead to the overmedicating problems of today.

Perhaps there are some that would argue that it is solely the young that suffer these anxieties and fears. But if that were true we wouldn’t have the news we have or the wars that are still ongoing, and not to mention on a smaller scale the fear of losing our job, being overworked, overtired, filled with worries and anxieties that range from the simple to the extreme whatever they may be. Yoga again can help with all of this as well, and the first thing it can help with is poor alignment. So many people today spend a lot of time in front of a computer, television or some other form of entertainment that causes the body to slouch, and by doing so the body develops poor balance, poor health, all of which can lead to weight problems. Yoga can help with these problems as well by correcting poor body alignment and stiffness while at the same time giving the practitioner the added bonus of expelling old air from the lungs and filling you with new air or prana (life energy).

As for the fears, anxieties and worries Yoga will help with these as well. No, it will not dispel them, but it will allow one to step back, breathe evenly and accept the problem while not becoming overwhelmed by it which causes the muscles to tighten and chronic ailments to set in because of stress.

Imagine at this point that you have been practicing Yoga since you were young (and I hope this trend takes off) and now find yourself in old age. Unlike what you expected to happen you now find yourself with a “proper curvature… to increase its flexibility by stretching the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments” (Swami Vishnu-devananda 55) because of Yoga. Yes, you are no longer the stereotypical old person who is hunched over; you, because of your long commitment to Yoga stand tall in old age- imagine it. What is even better than this is that Yoga has taught you how to breathe properly which in turn has led you to have fewer or no problems with illness which at one time would have been thought to be commonplace. Finally, if this were not enough, Yoga offers one of its greatest gems and that is the release from the fear of death, no Yoga cannot save you from death as great as Yoga may be, but it can offer something far greater, and that is through a stunning eye opener that allows the practitioner to understand the true meaning of the self which is the same as the universe which has no beginning or end.

Perhaps that last statement above was a lot to take in, so lets draw back down to a more worldly level which has to do with physical ailments. Our world, which as stated earlier, is moving at a speed that would make most of us get quite dizzy, and this dizziness as it were brings many ailments with it. Our society now faces an increase in high blood pressure both in the young and old, an increase in insomnia caused by excessive worries, nervous tensions that are being dealt with through drugs rather than eliminating the problem, an ever continuing of people smoking though most if not all people are aware of all the chemicals, diseases, and death that smoking causes, and of course links directly to the last ailment that is rising drastically which is asthma. This list of problems is just some of the things that Yoga can deal with and that is because of a thing Yogins call “prana” or life energy if you will. If people who suffered from any of the ailments above were to take up Yoga they would soon find a “renewal of the body cells, and that disease is unlikely to gain hold on a body whose every body cell is permeated with pranic energy” (James Hewitt 123). Due to the fact that Yoga teaches body alignment and proper breathing through pranayama, those who practice find themselves free from the fetters of worries and troubles and because of this not susceptible to the many if not all of the ailments listed above.

Linked to the physical ailments of course would be its opposite, physical well being to which Yoga is greatly concerned. First and foremost, as mentioned earlier Yoga teaches the practitioner to breathe properly, and maybe up to this point you thought you did, but the true way to breathe which most of us have forgotten is with a ratio of 1:2. This ratio for Yoga breathing Swami Vishnu-devananda explains is that by making the exhalation longer than the inhalation one “is to get maximum control over the lungs so that old foul air in the air sacs can be squeezed out” (Swami Vishnu-devananda 238).Furthermore James Hewitt argues that the Complete Yoga breath “vitalizes; removes phlegm; tones the nervous system; purifies and enriches the blood; improves appetite; aids digestion; broadens and strengthens the thorax; massages the abdominal organs; and makes consciousness lucid and alert” (91). With this type of breathing and exercise in place ones body is fit and able to withstand the ailments and pressures of society which of course leads us to our next examination which is one’s mental well being.

With the use of proper breathing as taught by Yoga, one now has the capabilities to withstand the tensions which are placed on the mind by constant or unnecessary worries and anxieties which only lead to physical tension as mentioned earlier. Once a person has been trained in Yoga which will lead one to breathe better, a practitioner will soon find themselves able to slowly become calm by controlling the breath in stressful situations which will it turn make one be, “able to feel a kind of floating sensation, as if one were as light as a feather (which allows for one to feel) peace and joy” (Swami Vishnu-devananda 203).

Since we are now physically well and mentally well, that only leaves us now to become spiritually well as it were. As mentioned earlier death happens to us all, and even the notion of it scares most people so much that we find our culture saying things like “if I die” and “I don’t want to die” in both statements there is a certain error as it were; first of all it is not a question of “if” and secondly you do not have a choice. Perhaps this sounds a bit harsh but in fact what must be pointed out is a very interesting argument from a Yoga standpoint and that is that “man has become prey to all evil emotions of the mind by identifying himself with the body and mind, and the only sure way to free himself from its clutches is by asserting his real nature, that is, ‘I am pure consciousness or self’. This identification with the self completes the process of relaxation” (Swami Vishnu-devanada 203). How could a person at this point not find perfect peace as stated by Vishnu-devananda, for if you can accept his argument then you come to realize that you are immortal, that death is nothing to be feared but the wearing away of the body, and that whatever higher power you acknowledge, you are it.

Yoga, as argued is the best and optimal health system for all and is exactly as Patanjali put forward so long ago, “ Yoga pose is mastered by relaxation of effort, lessening the tendency for restless breathing, and promoting an identification of oneself as living within the infinite breath of life” (2:47).

Namaste

Justin Benson is a certified Yoga teacher. He teaches Yoga classes in the Lewisporte, Newfoundland area.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Yoga for Health | 1 Comment »

Yoga is a Holistic System

Wednesday, December 8th, 2010

500 hour yoga certification courseBy Debra Daley

Yoga is a holistic system of purifying techniques for the body and mind. Those who sincerely practice it regularly and with devotion, develop greater sensitivity. They can attest to the existence of their inner Spirit and a better understanding of human nature. This phenomenon can be subtle or dramatic. But, it enables the yogi to objectively view himself and gracefully react to the challenges in his life. Not all students reap the full benefits of this ancient tradition, which includes philosophical study and adherence to a humbling moral code of ethics. Some simply practice the anatomically aligning postures as a sort of cross training and a way to gain some much needed flexibility. But, even these individuals will experience an improved sense of well being during the time that they are practicing the yoga postures. Many will also find the poses help to combat the effects of aging, especially when they incorporate some of yoga’s breathing techniques.

A yoga practice consists of physical postures, pranayama, and meditation. Certain postures should be practiced every day, particularly the ones that affect the spine, systems and glands of the body. These fundamental poses are maintenance exercises that keep the spine and joints supple, the ductless glands secreting their chemicals properly, and the body calm, yet, energized. There is a certain calm confidence that regular asana practice brings to the mind. A basic regime is enough to improve the immune system by simply tuning up the body. Removing toxins is paramount to the purifying aspects of yoga. There are soucha, cleansing practices, that a dedicated yogi uses to clean his eyes, ears, intestines, stomach, and sinuses. Deep breathing stretches and tones the entire respiratory system. It rids the body of toxic gases and brings oxygen into the body, building healthy tissues.

Asanas are divided into groups which exhibit certain characteristics and affect the practitioner in a certain way. A series of asanas can open up new movement patterns that a yogi had never experienced before. A new pose can find some strength or flexibility that he has never had, too. Generally speaking, standing poses build strength and flexibility. Inversions and backbends are invigorating, while forward bends and prone poses are introspective. Twists keep the spine healthy and sitting poses strengthen the lower back and open the hips. Prone and supportive poses are restorative. Traditionally speaking, the reason that all yoga poses are practiced is, so, the yogi can sit comfortably in a meditative sitting posture. Sitting postures are also useful when practicing breathing techniques. These exercises clear out and strengthen the respiratory system. The ribs and diaphragm are taught how to work together to get the most nutrients out of the oxygen that the lungs absorb. Cleaning and toning all of the organs and muscles, and optimizing the blood flow to the connective tissue and nervous system makes the yoga practitioner feel good and relaxed. His body and it’s functions are optimized. On the surface, this all seems to be similar to aerobics. However, the mind is called into play, once the student starts to dig deeper into yoga, the “subtle science”.

All aspects of yoga must be actively pursued, otherwise the energy flow within a student stagnates, and it’s purifying power is blocked. Yoga aligns the muscles and bones and balances the body’s chemistry to combat disease. It is accessible to everyone in all stages of their lives. Pranayama and asana exercises are considered the physical practices of yoga. Their job is to clean and strengthen each person’s physical state, so, his mind and emotions calm and he learns how to grow spiritually. Breathing exercises coordinate the breathing process, so, harmony develops between the asanas and the breathing. Breath control directly affects the emotions and sooths the central nervous system. Pranayama directly affects the mind. Meditation serves to purify the mind. Mr. Iyengar divides the body into three parts in “Yoga, the Path to Holistic Health”, the anatomical, the physiological, and the psychological; and all three aspects of the body need to work together to practice asanas fully.

Pranayama moves, distributes and stores prana in the body. Controlling the breath cleans the nerves or nadis so prana can move through the sushumna. Alternate nostril breathing helps the process and the mind is able to concentrate, meditate and become more one pointed. Pranayama clears the way for the prana to move and keep the nervous system healthy. The mind stills when the breath calms and grows strong. Prana is the “charged”, or living element within all living things.

Even the skeptics of yoga can’t deny that deep breathing can bring a bit of calmness to any dramatic and tense situation. This said, a yogi cannot automatically practice pranayama and yoga postures and expect to tap into the spiritual stream within him. He also has to creatively listen to his true self and be motivated through ethical and pure intentions. The quality of a yoga practice is most important. It is best to attempt two full, honest poses, than to hurry through a bunch. The way a student approaches his study of yoga is important in his overall development. Peaceful emotions induce calmness and aggressive ones create stress hormones that flood the bloodstream and initiate a chain of unhealthy reactions. By practicing with good intention, a yogi can teach himself how to react in dramatic situations. He can integrate breathing techniques that has he learned on the mat into his everyday life. The deep strength he finds when he calms his thoughts and holds a backbend for an extended period of time is going to be useful when a driver cuts him off on the highway. With sincere practice and some mental fortitude, he can call upon these coping skills to help him practice peacefulness.

With devotion, a yogi will travel within his physical practice and arrive at his mental practice with positive emotions, which will motivate him to delve into the philosophical practice of yoga. The physical, mental, and philosophical aspects of yoga work together to cleanse the individual and uplift the spirit. There are obstacles that make this journey frustrating, but, there are also, “aha” moments that make the journey worthwhile. It is important to aim for purity of mind and motivation, which requires honesty about and acceptance of oneself. Performing poses that feed the ego leads to irritation and possibly torn muscles, or worse. One must listen to the body and mind to practice yoga in a way that balances out all areas of the student’s practice. Intuition has to be cultured, not ignored, for the sake of obtaining a goal. Hurrying through an asana practice, just to “get er done” is counterproductive.

Just as there are tangible good affects on the body and mind when a student performs a posture well, executing an asana with tension and negative intension can result in ragged breathing and unstable emotions. There are also warnings against performing Pranayama with any tension. Prana is the vital thing in air that makes things alive. Pranayama controls the movement of prana through the subtle body, and in order to use this psychic energy best, the body cannot waste it. Breath control tempers emotions and calms the mind. When the mind is still and the body is strong, the act of breathing comes under our control. The prana, that is in all living things, charges us and is stored in our bodies and largely concentrated in the solar plexus. Through honing our breathing technique while in a relaxed seated posture, the prana is concentrated and reserved . Since prana is a life giving source, the more we practice healthy, positive living, the more we can use this source to learn about our essence and then, to serve others. Root locks and bandas help concentrate prana. Retention, exhalation, and inhalation make the most of what we inhale, by optimizing the detoxifying effects of our exhale. Retention stills the mind. When we pay attention to the things that are good for us, an aspect of ahimsa, we become aware of how we optimize our resources.

Optimal use of prana occurs only when pranayama is performed slow and relaxed, with no competitive goal in mind. By diligently practicing asanas, pranayama techniques and purifying practices, including the chanting of mantras, the chakras vibrate and kundalini is activated. With cultivation, divine energy moves up through the chakras, through the nadis, the sushumna, and ending in the sahasrara chakra. According to classical yoga texts, this is where the individual Self and the Divine, or universal Self, join. This union is the reward of true devotion to yoga.

Spiritual awakening requires true and regular nurturing and a balanced physical and mental practice. Good practice requires consciously living in the present and seeing the world as it really is. Looking inward and seeing the Self requires deep patience and quiet contemplation. One of the biggest obstacles for the Western yogi is the old Hindu philosophy which is the foundation of yoga’s roots. The premise of classic yoga is to teach the way of” living right’ in order to have a proper spiritual unfolding. Patanjali presented the Yoga Sutras hundreds of years ago. This text provided real problem solving techniques, so, man could improve his quality of life. Patanjali stated that mankind was in turmoil because he viewed himself as a separate entity and worried about the future and about the past. He believed that the non concentrated and restless mind created excess stress in the body, which created the perfect fuel to feed disease. Fear, loathing and anger are aggressive emotions that poison the body and mind. Patanjali came up with a code of conduct, now known as the Eight Limbs of yoga, to obtain happiness within the body and mind. His teachings explained how to replace old behavior patterns to ease suffering by steadily focusing the mind and remaining detached from outcomes, actions, thoughts and things.

The eight limbs are: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Yama and Niyama are moral codes that relate to how we behave toward ourselves and society. There are 5 Yamas that are meant to purify human nature, in English, they are: compassion, truthfulness, non-stealing, sense control, and non attachment. There are also 5 Niyamas that are personal purifying laws. These are: purity of thought, contentment, discipline of the body, self study(reflection), and celebration of a higher entity. Asana and Pranayama are purifying physical limbs, which prepare the yogi for meditation. Mr. Iyengar describes pranayama as the percolation of the breath through the body. The final four limbs deal with meditation. Pratyahara is detachment and sense withdrawal. Dharana is one pointed concentration. Dhyana is meditation on the Divine. Samadhi is final union with the Divine and release from suffering. Desire, anger, greed, infatuation, pride, and envy are six obstacles that need to be overcome in order for the yogi to reach Samadhi.

Self acceptance is important to spiritually evolve. Without it, the yogi is fooling himself and not optimizing his potential to practice all the branches of yoga. Karma yoga is the practice of right actions, service and commitment to the love of humanity. Raja yoga is more mystical in its pursuit of calmness through the love of the “higher” and “lower” self. Bhakti yoga utilizes a loving tone and attitude toward the Divine and his Self. Jhana is a philosophical approach to yogic peace. A balanced yoga practice employs some aspects of each branch, which helps a student affect the community he lives in. Yoga is now seen in a modern light in the West. Certain aspects within the Eight Limbs are seen in modern self help groups and recovery programs. Yoga is also used as a way to get fit, but it’s most exciting contributions are therapeutic.

The scientific community is collaborating with yoga teachers to provide alternatives to healthcare in America. At a time when physicians are spending less and less time with their patients, the compassion that a yoga teacher should exhibit, is attractive to more of the general public. There are modern studies being done on the appropriate use of yoga for the treatment of Asthma, Scoliosis, and Arthritis. Meditation is a recognized system to self treat anxiety and stress. With the use of props, yoga is accessible to everyone, and can help many recover from injuries and physical impairments by helping alleviate pain and mental anguish. Yoga improves the quality of life of those who practice it. With some practice, students can dispense with the status quo, knee jerk reaction, in stressful situations. Instead, he can react with peace and wisdom. As a result of self reflection, a dedicated yoga student can educate others and improve the spirit of the world around him.

Debra Daley is a certified Yoga teacher. She teaches Yoga classes in the Jensen Beach, Florida area.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Yoga for Emotional Health, Yoga for Health, Yoga for Mental Health, Yoga for Physical Health, Yoga for Spiritual Health | 1 Comment »

Teaching Yoga – Warm Ups in Your Yoga Classes – Part 3

Friday, April 16th, 2010

By Sanjeev Patel

This is the last article in this three part series about teaching Yoga warm ups before asana practice and the value of the warm ups for our students. The older a student is, the longer the warm up session should be. When we think about the physical practice of Yoga – safety the most important factor.

Every student should feel better after class than he or she did before Yoga class. If this is not the result, we Yoga teachers should adjust our lesson plans to meet the exact needs of our students.

In the words of Paulji: “Yoga class is structured to meet each student’s needs. There is no cookie cutter Yoga. If you cannot meet your student’s needs, it is time to go back to the drawing board.” The “drawing board” is a term Paulji uses to refer to an instructor’s need to learn more about teaching skills, modifications, lesson planning, or in some cases, to refer your students to a particular Yoga teacher who can help them – right now.

For everyone of us, who teaches Yoga, we must work on improvement every day. This is not something for next week, next month, or next year. There is no time to waste, when we consider student safety. Please remember that we all have to start some where.

Starting and continuing our Yoga education is a daily chore. This is true for all professionals, but there is no time like the present to work on continuing education. Below are more suggestions for the warm up segment of your lesson plans that take place before asana practice.

Sitting Alternate Toes Touch: Sitting on floor with back erect and legs straight and spread as far apart as comfortable, exhaling lean forward and touch the left foot, or toes, with the right hand. Few seconds of pause then sit up, inhaling. Exhaling, repeat on the opposite foot with the opposite hand.

Leg Raising and Sit up: Inhaling, raise the legs together, with your knees straight, and simultaneously sit up, forming a V with trunks and legs. Balance on the buttocks for a few seconds, then exhaling lower legs and back slowly to the floor.  Modification for lower backs: Place hands under sit bones and lower back as extra support and shorten the range of motion.

Side to Side Rolling: Lying flat on the back with knees up and back, hands clasped around the knees and thighs pressed against abdomen and chest, roll over to the floor on the right; on to the back again; then over to the left. Exhale as rolling to the side, inhale as rolling on to the back.

Spinal Rock: Lying flat on the back with knees up and back, hands clasped behind the knees and thighs pressed against abdomen and chest, rock gently backwards and forwards on the rounded back. Breathe out rocking backwards and in rocking forwards.

© Copyright 2010 – Sanjeev Patel / Aura Publications

Sanjeev Patel is a certified Yoga teacher and an exclusive author for Aura Wellness Center.

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, Paul

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in yoga safety, Yoga Teacher Issues, Yoga Teacher Training | No Comments »

Three People Most Unlikely to Become a Yoga Teacher

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Who fits the profile of a future Hatha Yoga instructor? Do you envision a perennial spiritual seeker, a specific body type, or an athlete for life? Yoga teachers come from all walks of life, with a variety of life experiences and the desire to help others. The three following examples are not the most likely, and their names have been changed for their privacy.

Joe the Yoga Teacher

This is not “Joe the Plumber” from the 2008 US Presidential Election. Joe had a challenging childhood, grew up in poverty, and fell through “the cracks of society.” In his teens, he became a homeless drug addict. After years on the city streets, he became acquainted with Hatha Yoga, while going through drug rehabilitation.

Joe states: “Up to the point where I began to study Yoga, I never considered having anything like a life purpose. My life was full of painful memories and all I wanted was my next fix.” The change from drug abuse to Yoga enthusiast was not instant; but during this visit to drug rehabilitation, his life direction changed. Now, Joe teaches Yoga to people in his old neighborhood, who are seeking a better life.

Jayne the Yoga Instructor

Jayne is a single mother of three, who was exposed to Yoga in a corporate fitness center. She began to practice independently with books, magazines, DVDs, and while searching the Internet for more information. Although she has limited funds, she found affordable methods for studying and for obtaining her Yoga certification.

At the same time, she also taught her children Yogic values. Jayne said, “Meals are healthy, we eat together, we practice together, and we study together. My children are able to prioritize, see improvements now, and look to a brighter future.” Not surprisingly, on nights when Jayne teaches, Jayne’s children can be found in a Yoga class or studying in the waiting area.

Ben the Yoga Instructor

Ben lived a middle-class childhood, went directly to college from high school; his parents will have their 50th wedding anniversary next year. Ben worked in business management after college, continued to attend college part-time during evening hours, and life seemed like a stream of financial success. Suddenly, the 21st century arrived, and the job market squeezed him into unemployment four times in eight years.

Ben practiced for 16 years, with three different teachers, but never considered Yoga teacher training. He states: “I was always too busy with my job, working toward my master’s degree, or spending time with my family, to think about teaching Yoga classes.” The last time Ben found himself unemployed, he decided to become a Yoga instructor. Now, he teaches full time as an independent contractor.

Who really fits the profile of a Yoga teacher? It all depends on where we are in life, and what we consider to be important. One common thread is that, every person who teaches Yoga classes, has the desire to make a difference - by helping others become aware of a better way of living.

© Copyright 2010 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Yoga Teacher Issues, Yoga Teacher Training | No Comments »

SEARCH