Techniques For Solving Everyday Stress Using YogaBy Michael Russell
Do you feel stressed all the time? 24 hours in a day not enough? Don't have any personal time to do your personal projects? Co-workers driving you crazy? Don't worry. Yoga and meditation can provide the answer. For the stress can be reduced by managing and controlling it. Our mind controls whether we adapt to live with stress or reducing it and living a stress free life.
The factors that mainly control the kind of person we have become are genes we inherit, surroundings and standard of living we live. While the genes cannot be changed since we cannot decide who our parents can be, nor can the surroundings we grow up in, which can also be tough to overcome, we can certainly change our way of life. Simply controlling what we eat, how we eat, exercising more frequently and learning to deal with everyday issues with a open mind and positive attitude can help us lead a stress free life and Yoga can provide the answer for you. Once a person chooses to practice yoga he is naturally lead to choose a healthier lifestyle.
Yoga can help us solve issues, which cause stress on a daily basis. Performing yoga not only strengthens and tones the muscles but also helps the internal organs perform better, thus keeping us from getting diseases. The structural alignment and reinforcing the spine can be achieved by performing standing asahanas (postures). The blood pressure gets lowered and central nervous system gets relaxed by doing forward bends. Performing inverted asahanas purifies the lymphatic system, while the internal organs can be massaged with the body twists. Also the nervous, digestive and immune system gains strength and tone by the breathing exercises and asahanas.
While the effects of yoga on physical human body were mentioned above, yoga also affects the human mental state in a positive manner. Yoga will make you approach everyday problems, which cause stress, with a positive attitude. Once you start performing yoga you can feel your mind opening up and become clear and aware, your concentration and focus improves, gain self esteem, depression vanishes, healthier feeling. All these factors in turn reduce stress. Once the physical and mental states of the human body get in sync then you get projected into a new dimension where your perception of everything improves, your love and compassion for every living thing improves, you feel a connection to the Supreme Being.
Listed below are some practical techniques for dealing with everyday stress with a brief explanation.
1) Using your office chair for performing. Yes, that's right you can take care of your body while you work by performing this simple yoga posture while sitting in your office chair. Grab the side or back of the chair then perform a twisting motion from one side to the other. Start with arching your back then come back to the initial position in a circular fashion. A good neck stretch can be obtained by moving your head up and down then side-to-side several times, Stretch your arms while standing up. Lifting the shoulders in shrug and releasing them suddenly can release tension in the shoulders.
2) Steps to relax. A crucial part of stress management is learning to relax. After completing any yoga asahanas (postures) or any form of exercise try lying down in a relaxing pose for some time. You will find out for yourself that your body and mind gets in sync. A person can awaken his inner self and wake up feeling refreshed and stress gone. This is hard to do in the office but for those lucky ones who have their own office, lie down on a mat for around 20 minutes and perform this posture. Be sure when you wake up you will find the stress gone.
3) Relaxation using focus Once your body is relaxed, focus your mind on every body part starting with the feet and train your eyes to follow upwards towards your head. This will be difficult at first to concentrate without falling asleep. Do not give up as you keep trying it you can feel the tension and stress go away each time you perform this posture. In conclusion try these simple steps while you are at your work or at your home, you will find out that your enjoying your life more and have become a better human being. You will experience success in your career and life.
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Yoga and Your HeartBy Michael Russell
The leading cause of death for both men and women in United States according to American Heart Association is Coronary Heart Disease, which causes approximately 1.5 million heart attacks each year. Recently, research has shown that yoga and meditation have been known to reduce blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm, improve the elasticity of the arteries, lower pulse rate and increases the heart's stroke volume. In short, practicing this ancient art of body/mind wellness is good for the heart.
The factor that contributes heavily to heart disease is stress. Situations which are highly stressful, increase the heart rate and blood pressure. The stress hormones get released during a stressful situation; extended or recurrent exposure of these hormones can injure the heart and the blood vessels. Yoga promotes a relaxed state of mind and body and is also widely known for playing a vital role in reduction of stress hormones, decreasing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
The way a person breathes strongly influences the heart rhythm through the inner connections in the central nervous system. Pranayama, which is the yogic name for breathing exercises, encourages taking slow, deep breaths and reciting yogic mantras verbally. Due to this method of taking slow, deep breaths the heart rate slows down and more oxygen enters the blood. This in turn induces a calm and well being throughout the mind and body. The chances of having a heart attacks and strokes gets greatly reduced because of this slow steady breath rhythm.
Heart Disease can be controlled and prevented by using specific types of Yogic Asanas (Postures). The Chest can be opened up to improve respiration and functioning of the heart by using the upper back- bending postures. The side bending yogic postures has been shown to help remove the physical and energetic blockages in the heart and chest. In order to promote the functioning of the heart, compression of the heart and lungs a good posture is required and spine lengthening yogic poses provides just that.
The preferred yogic asana for relaxation is called the Savasana (Corpse Pose). In order to perform this asana a person lies down quietly on a flat surface on his/her back with the arms by his/her side for 10 to 15 minutes. The concentration is placed on the flow of the breath. This practice promotes tranquility and rest, which is healing to the heart. This yogic posture has been known to reduce the blood pressure within a matter of weeks. Using inversions can increase the blood circulation.
Research has shown that a person performing yoga and meditation at least three times a week has been shown to reduce their blood pressure, pulse and their overall risk of heart disease. Meditation is well known for its ability to provide tranquility to the mind and decrease the level of stress. Meditation also reduces emotions like anxiety, hostility and depression, which are harmful to the heart. The practice of daily meditation has been shown in the studies to reduce the blood pressure and also the amount of fatty deposits in the arteries.
While Practicing yoga a person is automatically led to choose a healthier lifestyle, which involves reducing or avoiding alcohol, foods rich in cholesterol and fat, refined sugar and caffeine. While heart disease can be averted or controlled by above-mentioned yogic postures, if all of them are performed together a potent therapeutic synergy is created on the heart. It has been shown by the famous Dr. Dean Ornish's heart-healthy lifestyle studies that not only can heart disease be prevented or controlled but also it can reversed through a healthier diet, meditation and yoga.
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Yoga EquipmentBy David Wells
Yoga is quickly becoming very popular, and for good reason. Yoga will make almost anyone feel better and in shape. For most, yoga is the ideal exercise to keep your body in shape while helping you relax and unwind at the same time.
Research has demonstrated that yoga can help control anxiety, reduce asthma, alleviate arthritis symptoms, lower blood pressure, eliminate back pain, and benefit patients suffering from multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, epilepsy, diabetes, headaches, stress and much more.
Yoga offers a lot of benefits. Perhaps its most important benefit is it's ability to reduce tension and stress. Stress can lead to a whole slew of other health problems.
Yoga increases muscle tone, strength, stamina and flexibility. If you are overweight, yoga can help you gently reduce your weight and keep the pounds an inches off. Yoga exercises can burn excess fat and give you your desired figure.
Yoga can also help you improve your concentration and enhance your creativity. It can help you to think more positively and learn to live free of anxiety.
Your body needs to relax from time to time. Sometimes, work can leave us feeling spent and exhausted. During busy days, we may not be able to unwind because work is still on our mind. Yoga can help you create a sense of calmness and well being to replace this stress from work.
Yoga exercise improves circulation. Your organs and veins need to move and stretch to function properly. Yoga can also help stimulate your immune system to protect you from disease.
Don't confuse yoga with religion. It's just a method of exercise with a long list of benefits to your health and well being. If you begin to feel more spiritual it's probably because you are more in tune with your body and life than you were before you started doing yoga.
The pressure and demands of life can leave us stressed out. We find ourselves rushing most of the time with the deadlines and hassles we need to keep up with. This leaves us little time to rest our minds and relax.
These are just a few of the many powerful benefits yoga has to offer. Find a little time to dedicate to it every day and you will begin to feel more calm, certain and relaxed than you thought possible.
Make the most of your yoga exercise witht he right yoga equipment.
Next article will be on the right yoga equipment, stay tuned......
Online Yoga CourseAlways Smell Your BestYoga EquipmentBy David Wells
One of the best things about yoga is that it can be practiced almost anywhere, with virtually no equipment. Plus people of nearly any age can safely practice yoga.Yoga is best practiced wearing loose, comfortable clothing. It is traditionally done barefoot, but of course you can wear socks or soft-shoes if it suits you. Special yoga pants are not necessary, but some people are more comfortable with them.It's important to practice yoga on an empty stomach. Clean your nose and throat, and drink a glass of warm water 15 minutes before you start.You may eat an energy bar or some fruit with a glass of water an hour before class to avoid getting hungry or dehydrated during yoga exercises.You basically don’t need anything in order to practice yoga - Just desire and the attitude to really be into yoga and expand your self awareness.But this doesn't eliminate the usefulness of a few items of yoga equipment. Certain yoga equipment can help you enjoy and get the most out of your yoga exercise sessions.Some items can help you achieve the proper alignment, balance and even make some poses easier to accomplish . The use of Yoga equipment can also reduce the strain from some yoga postures.Yoga equipment helps support your muscles and joints while protecting against injury. Yoga equipment also helps to save energy by reducing the effort necessary to hold a pose.Yoga originated in India thousands of years ago. It is so effective at creating a sense of health, well-being and spiritual connectedness that it has flourished in many forms for millennia.Yoga has evolved over the centuries and has spread across the globe. Now millions of people around the world practice Yoga to relieve stress, release tension, achieve a healthier body and to gain a deep sense of self-knowledge.You may find a few items of yoga equipment will make your yoga experience more enjoyable. The following are a few suggestions.
YOGA MATS: A yoga mat provides a cushion against a hard floor, this specially important if your yoga studio floor is made up of cement or hard wood floor.YOGA BOLSTERS: This item provides support for your spine, abdomen and legs in a number of different poses. Yoga bolsters helps you achieve a better result for your practice.
YOGA BLANKETS: These will help you feel relaxed and comfortable during breathing sessions between asana. Deep relaxation is essential to the effective practice of yoga.
YOGA STRAPS: this yoga equipment is either made out of cotton or nylon. It allows you to grasp your body part which you cannot. Yoga straps give you added flexibility and helps you hold your pose much longer.Yoga equipment may not be a requirement for doing yoga but it can help you get more out of your yoga exercise sessions. Many yoga practitioners have used a variety of yoga equipment to enhance their workout. Most are made to provide support to help you feel relaxed and feel deeper into the pose or do the pose better.
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Please keep checking back because if I am not mistaken this series is in 6 parts and I will update at least every other day.
Universal Principles of Yoga
By Paul Jerard
Yoga and Yogic philosophy is occasionally misunderstood because some people have not been informed of the universal principles that are not threatening to any belief or disbelief. Many people who do not practice Yoga are often surprised to find detailed dietary suggestions contained within their Yoga training. Yoga aids the student toward better health in every possible aspect. So, Yoga requires and in depth explanation.
Online Yoga CourseLet’s start with the meaning of Yoga, which literally means “unity” or “union.” Your next question might be, “Unity with what?” Yoga does help unify the mind and body, but it also unifies the spirit or soul within you with God. The soul is sometimes known as the “Atman” and can also be referred to as pure or true consciousness. Yoga is not a religion, but it can be practiced in harmony with any religion.
Before we go any further; it should be noted that many students from a variety of religions have practiced Yoga and feel a deeper connection with God as a result of the mind, body, and spirit unification process. Therefore, Yoga is doing no harm to anyone of any religion. Yoga philosophy does not preach a “Better than thou” doctrine. This has been mankind’s excuse to wage war, since history was first recorded and even before.
The concept of another person’s religion, nationality, ethnic background, race, and gender; being less, have always been convenient reasons for bigotry, slavery, and cruelty. Tolerance of others is not a new idea in Yogic philosophy.
There is no group that has the exclusive rights to Yoga. India is the birth place of Yoga and the people of India have gladly shared their gift with the rest of the world. There is no exclusive group that practices Yoga or teaches Yoga classes. Yoga was not designed to be an exclusive practice and Yoga has evolved for the best over 5,000 years to this day.
For the sake of being “politically correct,” many Yoga teachers omit the spiritual aspect of Yoga in their Hatha Yoga classes. This is fine, since the masses of some cultures object to learning about a method to connect to God. However, what does it say about a culture that is to busy to talk or think about God?
It means many things and some societies are showing signs of systematic spiritual illness. However, if you teach Hatha Yoga under these circumstances, you might be best to leave religion outside your classes. Unless, you are teaching Bhakti Yoga or something similar such as Jewish, Moslem, or Christian Yoga, the union of mind, body, and spirit does not usually occur in a typical Hatha Yoga class.
Online Yoga CourseUniversal Principles of Yoga, Part 2By Paul Jerard
The emphasis, in most Hatha Yoga classes, is on the physical body. As I have explained to some of my colleagues, “Some form of union is better than no union at all.” This indicates something ancient Yogis knew thousands of years ago. The path of Hatha Yoga will be much easier to follow than the paths of Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Jnana Yoga.
There are many styles of Yoga, but let’s look at some of the main Indian Yoga styles and their approach to unity. There are many other Indian Yoga styles, and no disrespect is intended by not mentioning them. Many styles of Yoga do use components found in other styles, so each style has many facets. Meditation is one of the most common facets found in almost all forms of Yoga.
Bhakti Yoga: Is unity through devotion, love for God, or loving service. This is the most widely practiced form of Yoga within India. However, Yoga practiced for devotion to God is practiced by many religions. These Yoga classes are most often sectarian in nature and include members with one religious belief.
Bhakti can also be misplaced when a person gives too much devotion to material gain and temporary worldly pleasures. The Bhakti Yoga practitioner knows that the true path, toward a connection with God, is through loving service and devotion to God. The “holy man” who preaches hate, is not a Bhakti Yoga practitioner.
Pope John Paul II could have been considered an example of a Bhakti Yoga practitioner. Within a spiritual country, such as India or Saudi Arabia, you will also see many examples of Bhakti Yoga. Although, many Saudis might not agree with the description, they are devoted to Allah (God). Many Moslems will travel a great distance for a Hajj or Umrah. This is an example of loving service to God.
Sometimes devotion can be to a prophet, saint, or Guru, who is living or not, but most often devotion, dedication, and love toward God, Brahman, Krishna, Allah, Jehovah, Yahweh, or a Supreme consciousness is the central idea. In truth, mankind has spent far too much time waging war over the name of God.
Jnana Yoga: Is unity through knowledge, but this is much more than intellectual pursuit. Jnana Yoga is a method to turn knowledge into pure wisdom. Knowledge is not always practical or pure wisdom.
Today, many children have access to multiple forms of media, so they are knowledgeable, but are they very wise? Children are young and need time to develop wisdom. How many times have you met a person who was “book smart,” but lacked common sense in daily decision making? Awareness, logic, and pure wisdom are cultivated through meditation, self-analysis, self-realization, and developing a deeper connection with God.
Online Yoga CourseUniversal Principles of Yoga, Part 3By Paul Jerard
Hatha Yoga: Is unity through physical mastery, but Hatha Yoga uses many of the aspects of other Yoga styles. This is the most common form of Yoga outside of India. In the Hatha Yoga family tree are many popular Hatha sub-styles such as: Iyengar, Bikram, Sivananda, Restorative, Power, and Vinyasa Yoga.
There are many books and videos about Hatha Yoga on the market. Yet, there are still many misunderstandings about Hatha Yoga. Since Hatha Yoga is the most popular form of Yoga in the world, it has been labeled as many things.
When most people outside of India refer to Yoga, they are most often referring to Hatha Yoga. Some celebrities endorse variations of Hatha Yoga for its healing properties, while some journalists still scoff at the idea of Yoga as preventative medicine. Some doctors refer their patients to Yoga classes, but a rare few may still compare Yoga to “snake oil.”
Yoga has been referred to as a “cure all” for everything that troubles mankind. In truth, Yoga is the most comprehensive health maintenance system ever developed and it continues to evolve to this day. Hatha Yoga’s strength is that it is a “well rounded” in every aspect of preventative medicine.
Yoga has come a long way in the Western Psyche, but is still accused of being a “front” for the proliferation of Hinduism. The fact is, Hatha Yoga is a separate practice from religion, but also Hatha Yoga could be integrated into any religious practice. Hatha Yoga is a separate entity from religion.
Strangely, Yoga has sometimes been compared to “witchcraft.” The first time I read that one, I burst into laughter, but a few people must feel strongly about it, if they take credit for writing such claims. Just like anything else people have difficulty understanding, Yoga can be misunderstood. When one of my first Yoga students stated that she got rid of migraine headaches, after practicing particular Yoga techniques, I never thought the devil would receive credit for it.
A few of the more vigorous and contemporary Hatha Yoga styles have limited meditation practice within the class structure. This is not a rule, but the students are just more interested in “getting a workout.” Pilates is one of Yoga’s 20th Century offshoots and has no meditation practice at all. On the other hand Ashtanga Yoga classes are very vigorous and do contain meditation, as part of the lesson plan.
Hatha Yoga’s best known component is its postures (Asanas). However, Pranayama, philosophy, bandhas, mudras, mantras, and meditation can be commonly found in Hatha Yoga classes. With so many sub-styles of Hatha Yoga, there is always a style to match the needs of all Yoga students.
Online Yoga CourseUniversal Principles of Yoga, Part 4By Paul Jerard
Karma Yoga: Is unity through work and particularly through the act of selfless service. Along with Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga; Karma Yoga is often considered to be one of the four most advanced forms of Yoga. To take selfless action, without expectations, or seeking a reward, is one of the keys to Karma Yoga and also enlightenment.
When I think of Karma Yogis, the first that would come to mind is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi. His model of peaceful resistance for civil rights has been successfully copied since, but most importantly, his actions were for the highest moral reasons. He did not seek fame, but fame did come to him. His selfless acts did cost him his health and, unfortunately, his own life. India and the world will always miss his rare wisdom.
You do not have to be enlightened, or give up your life, to follow the path of Karma Yoga, but if you can let go of attachment to the outcome of your action; you are on the path. This one task is most difficult and requires acts of loving kindness to friends, strangers, and those who do not wish you well.
Karma Yoga also requires mindfulness and forgiveness. Why should you give so much of yourself? Surprisingly, the Karma Yogi does receive a priceless reward, but most people do not come to this realization. By giving, forgiving, showing kindness, being mindful, and letting go of attachment, the Karma Yogi experiences freedom. This is freedom from hate, guilt, fear, and greed.
Think of “The Middle Way” as taught by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as “The Buddha.” He taught avoidance of extremes; whether it is pleasure or pain. When you stop hating, you are releasing your own pain from within the depths of your soul. So, you are forgiving, but you are also releasing the burden of hate.
Remember also that when you give in to hate, greed, fear, and guilt; the consequences of your actions will eventually be realized. Therefore, the path of Karma Yoga should be a part of each of our lives. Give to those in need and do not expect a reward. Your reward is that you are in a position to give.
The highest form of Karma Yoga is selfless service to God. It does not matter what name you choose call God, the principle is the same. Selfless service is taking the action to help others. If you can learn to love others, you will learn to love yourself, and establish an even deeper love for God.
Online Yoga CourseUniversal Principles of Yoga Part 5By Paul Jerard
Kundalini Yoga: Is unity through awakening psychic nerve force, which indicates the depth of this Yoga style. Kundalini Yoga is sometimes referred to as the “Mother of all Yogas.” On the surface Kundalini Yoga might resemble Hatha Yoga, but the emphasis on the subtle body, chakras, mantras, meditation, and Pranayama is presented in a uniquely powerful way.
Kundalini Yoga was cloaked in secrecy until Yogi Bhajan gave a lecture in Los Angeles during January of 1969. Until that time, most information about Kundalini Yoga had been exchanged verbally from teacher to student. So, this was the beginning of Kundalini Yoga teaching “going public.”
The awakening of Kundalini energy starts with focusing on dormant energy at the base of the spine within the first major Chakra; also known as the Muladhara Chakra. Through asanas, coordinated Pranayama, Japa (repeating mantras), and meditation, the Kundalini energy is sent up the spine to the Sahasrara Chakra at the crown of the head.
Samadhi, also known as intuitive enlightenment, is one of the most sought after results of Kundalini Yoga practice. Therefore, Kundalini attracts a much different type of student and Yoga teacher from what is most commonly found in a Hatha Yoga class. This is neither right, nor wrong, but most Hatha Yoga students are not usually pursuing a spiritual transformation process.
As a side note: Kundalini has taken a few verbal assaults, from religious fundamentalists, for being a bit mystical and a little harder to understand. Based upon my own experience, Kundalini Yoga sessions will purge negative energy from your mind and body. Only positive results can be gained in the study of Kundalini Yoga, under the supervision of a competent Kundalini Yoga teacher.
Mantra Yoga: Is unity through sound. Mantra Yoga is also referred to as Japa Yoga and the repeating of particular Mantras will cause sensory withdrawal (Pratyahara). This is, in fact, easier for most people to accomplish than meditation and it allows the Mantra Yoga practitioner to remove negative energy from the body, mind, and spirit.
In Sanskrit Mantra literally means “tool for thinking” or “tool for thought.” The purpose of Mantra Yoga is to achieve salvation through unity with the supreme consciousness, which you many people refer to as God, Brahman, Yahweh, Jehovah, or Allah. The repeating of Mantras, which is also known as Japa, is in fact prayer. So, Mantra Yoga may not look like much “from the outside looking in,” but it is a deeply spiritual, powerful, and rewarding Yoga practice, in its own right.
Online Yoga CourseSmell Great While You YogaUniversal Principles of Yoga, Part 6By Paul Jerard
In all religions, it is believed singing or chanting prayers, hymns, or Japa, will bring about salvation. Within the Vedas, the verses are also called mantras. To go a bit further, every religion practices a form of Mantra or Japa. If you have been to a church, temple, shrine, ashram, or mosque, you will hear prayers, chanting, and singing.
So, what happened to the concept that Yoga is not a spiritual practice? Well, it is, but some popular physical forms do not address spiritual health. Pilates is a popular “Yoga off shoot” that does not address spiritual health. Some of the contemporary Hatha Yoga styles do not contain much spiritual benefit. I teach Chair Yoga classes for physical and mental benefits only. However, as you can see, by what you have previously read, many of the main Indian Yoga styles do address mental, physical, and spiritual health.
The main point is that these forms of Yoga are not threatening to any religion at all. Yoga can be practiced by anyone of any religion, without the worry of a conflict. Now, if you are an atheist, you may prefer to practice a form of Yoga that will not enhance your spiritual health. It is every Yoga student’s prerogative to choose a style of Yoga or a Guru that fits his or her needs.
However, if you ever find a Guru who does not embrace spiritual health, what does that tell you?
Let’s look at a few other points of interest found in Mantra Yoga. The Mantra Yogi has three methods of practice. They are Balkhari, Upanshu, and Manasik.
The Balkari method is chanting in a voice that can easily be heard. The immediate benefit is to withdraw into meditation easily. It is much easier to meditate when you can remove outside thoughts, problems, and concerns. The Upanshu form of chanting is performed in a low voice, similar to a whisper. The Manasik form of chanting is one of my personal favorites and can be performed mentally. Some consider this to be difficult, but it does lead to higher states of consciousness. Since this is such a “low key” form of Japa, you can easily fit it into your busy day. If you pray in silence during the day, you have already practiced in this way.
Some Mantra Yogis use a Rosary or “Mala.” Most of the Malas that I have seen have 109 beads. The 109th offset bead is known as a Sumeru or Guru. This is where Japa begins and ends. Also worthy of note, is that Roman Catholics use a Rosary for prayers and meditation. This is also a deeply spiritual practice. The Mala or Rosary has been a helpful tool for enhancement of spiritual health regardless of which culture you are from or which religion you practice.
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Tantra Yoga is unity by controlling sexual energy. When you consider the main Indian Yoga styles, Tantra Yoga is probably the most controversial of them all. So what is the problem? Is it our “sexual hang-ups” or is it something more? What is the origin of Tantra Yoga? Is it all linked to the Kama Sutra or is there more to it?
Since Tantra Yoga uses many components of the classical Yoga styles such as mudras, pranayama, asanas, meditation, Bhakti, Yantra,and Kundalini, there are many similarities to other forms of Yoga practice. Some Yogis say that Tantra Yoga is the hardest Yoga to define, but there is a fundamental difference.
The major difference is Tantra Yoga accepts and embraces the power of “desire.” Tantra Yogis are not trained to avoid desires that arouse the senses. This is a stark contrast from the many other forms of Yoga, which train their students to renounce desire. This is the foundation of the division between Tantra Yoga and the other classical Indian styles.
The origins of Tantra Yoga and the Kama Sutra date back to the Fourth Century A.D. The author of the Kama Sutra was Vatsyayana Mallanaga, who is somewhat of a mystery in the history books. There are no other traces of him to be found. He did write the world’s most famous sex manual to date.
Northern India seems to be the birth place of Tantra Yoga and it appears to have migrated further north to Tibet, and China, before going global. Many contemporary Tantra Yogis practice Tantra Yoga of Tibetan or Indian origin. Tantra Yoga practitioners focus on the opposites and dualities within the universe such as, male and female, Shiva and Shakti, or Yin and Yang.
At different points in time, ritual Tantric sex has been considered common place within certain Tantra followings. However, it is not as common place as some might think. There is also a common belief that Tantric sex is always intentionally prolonged. This is not always the case and sometimes Tantric sex takes it own natural course.
Lastly, it should be noted that the Kama Sutra might have been considered a “racy classic” at the time of its writing, and during conservative points in history. However, by today’s standards, the Kama Sutra would offend the masses much less. Some of the entertainment, at this point in time, has managed to make the public more callous than we should naturally be. Entertainment of the present day is sometimes comparable to that of the Roman coliseums in the past.
Tantra Yoga is a good example of the cycles and evolutions of morality within human history. Whether we think Tantra Yoga and the Kama Sutra are right or wrong, the current moral code will change with time, but we may not live long enough to see it.
Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," or a free Yoga newsletter, please visit:
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Are You Willing To Follow Eight Yoga Exercises For the Lower Back?By Shelley Hitz
EXERCISES FOR BACK RELIEF Many people believe that rest is best for a painful back, but actually, what your back really needs when it’s hurt is exercise. Regular exercise relieves back pain by strengthening and stretching the muscles that support the spine and helps to prevent future injury. This is a use it or lose it situation: the more you rest, the weaker your back gets, even if it is hurt. Studies have actually shown that you can heal your back pain faster and get back to your regular activities with just two days of rest. This article will focus on Yoga Exercises. Remember to contact your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
YOGA EXERCISES FOR YOUR BACK A good, regular yoga practice will go far in relieving the stress and tension that sometimes cause mild back pain, and in fact, studies have shown that yoga is the number one most effective exercise for relieving back pain. However, not all yoga poses relieve back pain, and some can in fact aggravate existing pain, so it is important to know which poses will be most helpful in relieving back pain.
It is best to do these exercises under the supervision of a certified yoga instructor, and if you encounter any problems with these poses, you should consult an expert. Even just one or two sessions with a yoga instructor can help, as an instructor will help you with your form and posture during poses. Here are some of the best yoga poses for relieving back pain. Each pose should be held from five to ten seconds, depending upon your level of comfort, and should be done on a mat or other soft, supportive surface.
CORPSE: Lie flat on your back in a relaxed position, arms resting at your sides, palms down, and legs lying naturally, with knees turned out slightly. If it hurts your back to have your knees turned outward, do this pose with knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and out for a few seconds while allowing any tension to leave the body.
CAT STRETCH: Start out on your hands and knees with a flat back. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders with fingers spread. Knees should be directly under the hips. Head is held loosely so that you are looking at the floor between your hands. Inhale, and as you exhale, arch your back toward the ceiling, tuck your chin in to your chest so that you are looking at your navel, and tuck your tailbone underneath. Hold, then release back into your original position.
WIND-RELEASING POSE: Lie flat on your back as in Corpse pose. As you inhale, bend your knee, place your hands right below the knee, and draw your leg towards your chest. Your left leg should remain flat on the floor. Exhale and bring your forehead up to touch your knee. Inhale, and then as you exhale, return to your original position. Repeat with the other leg.
SAGE TWIST: Warning for this pose—it involves twisting your back, so you should take particular care not to twist too far or you risk aggravating any existing back pain. This should be a gentle stretch; twist just as far as is comfortable. Sit on the floor with both legs out in front of you. Bend your right knee, lift your right leg over your left, and place your right foot on the floor next to your left knee.
Sitting with spine straight, place your left elbow on the right side of your right knee. Bend your left arm so that your left fingertips are touching your right hip, while at the same time, twisting to look over your right shoulder. This is where you need to be careful not to twist too far. Hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat on the opposite side.
PALM TREE: Stand with feet facing forward, arms at your sides, weight distributed evenly on both feet. Raise both arms over your head, interlock your fingers, and turn your hands so that your palms are facing upward. Next, place your palms on your head and turn your head so that you are looking slightly upward. Stretch your arms upwards, and at the same time, come up onto your toes if you can do so without pain. Stretch your entire body upward and hold, if you can. Some people have difficulty balancing during this pose, so just do the stretching part if you need to.
FISH POSE: Lie on your back with knees bent and arms at your side. Arch your back as far as you comfortably can and raise it off the ground by pushing the floor with your elbows. If you can, tilt your head backwards and rest the crown of your head on the floor. Breathe deeply from the diaphragm and hold pose for one minute if you can.
LOCUST: Lie face down with arms at the side, palms down, and elbows slightly bent with fingers pointing towards the feet. Raise your legs and thighs as high off the ground as possible without causing your back any pain. Hold for one second and repeat up to twelve times. This can be a vigorous exercise so you must take care to strain already injured muscles.
BENDING FORWARD POSTURE: Stand up straight with feet together and arms hanging loosely along your sides. Breathe in deeply and raise your arms straight above your head. While breathing out, bend forward and touch your toes if you can. If you can’t reach your toes, grab hold of your ankles or calves. To complete the pose, you should touch your head to your knees, but this may be too difficult for many who suffer from lower back pain. Your movements during this pose should be smooth, not jerky.
Written by Shelley Hitz, Licensed Physical Therapist and Certified NASM Personal Trainer.
You will notice that I have a favorite author. His name is Paul Jerard and I have been a friend of his for many years now. I have spent time with him and his family doing cardio workouts, my husband does yoga with Paul for his back problems, and my son takes karate from Paul and his son. I find that he and his family have vast knowledge of many wellness programs and I will be sharing them with you in the future.
Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher.
Yoga For Pain By Paul Jerard
Is Yoga really a cure for pain? What kind of Yoga teacher should you visit for pain management? What style of Yoga would be best, if you are constantly feeling pain? In which cases would Yoga not be advisable for students in severe pain? Let’s look at some pain management solutions that Yoga has to offer.
Is Yoga really a cure for pain? Many Yoga students swear by the results they have received from regularly attending Yoga classes, two or three times per week. In truth, Yoga has its limits – just like any diet. Can you imagine if you were going to diet wisely once a week? You can imagine the results.
Therefore, the real dilemma, with Yoga practice, is getting a student to practice on a regular basis. Also, Yoga, much like any prescription drug, cannot promise to be a “cure-all” for every ailment. Yoga can promise to be a diversion from pain and help students to manage it better, with no adverse side effects.
The lifestyle changes that occur after regularly practicing Yoga, will cause Yoga students to evaluate everything they do, and everything they eat. Yoga is not just another exercise program or some fad that just came along within the least decade. According to some archaeological findings, Yoga has been in existence for over 5000 years. Show me an exercise fad with those credentials!
What kind of Yoga teacher should you visit for pain management? The Yoga teacher you select, for pain management, should be knowledgeable in the use of props. The prospective Yoga teacher should understand that each posture can be modified for the needs of the specific student. In other words, if you detect a “it’s my way or the highway” attitude, get as far away from that Yoga teacher as you can.
The most important component in a Yoga teacher’s personality, who helps students with ailments, is compassion. If you don’t see, feel, or hear any compassion, this is the wrong match for your needs. Yoga can be customized for the specific needs of students. The Yoga teacher, who has not yet felt any pain, is going to have less empathy for students who are in pain. So, an “elite” Yoga teacher, who can perform every asana imaginable, and has the body of a competing Olympic gymnast, may not exactly understand your pain.
Which Style of Yoga Should you Choose?What style of Yoga would be best, if you are constantly feeling pain? There are a number of styles to consider that can be easily customized for your specific needs. Here are a few to consider: Restorative Yoga, Therapeutic Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Yoga Therapy, and Tri-Yoga. Please keep in mind that these styles will vary according to the Yoga teacher’s interpretation of the style’s principles.
In which cases would Yoga not be advisable for students in severe pain? Sometimes, physicians do not recommend Yoga in cases of severe pain, such as in the case of extremely severe arthritis. The reasoning is that any movement will cause a great deal of pain in the joints. If your physician tells you not to practice a gentle form of Yoga, you should at least ask why. If you are not satisfied with the answer, you should seek a second opinion.
If you are feeling pain, and want to take positive action, you should consult your physician, and if agreed by your physician, explore your options with a local Yoga teacher, who teaches a gentle style and has a history of helping Yoga students with ailments.
Rob Daniels is a long term practitioner of Yoga and Pilates.
History of Yoga
By Rob Daniels
Yoga is a union of body, mind, and spirit. The history of yoga is long and steeped in tradition. Yoga is an ancient system of health and fitness which originated in India. The word yoga has its first mention in the Rig Veda, the oldest of the sacred texts. Those that study Yoga estimate it's age to be four thousand year.
The history of Yoga can be divided into four main periods which are the pre-classical period, classical period, post-classical period and modern period. In the history of yoga, the book is called the yoga sutras. The history of yoga would not have been completed in the classical stage of yoga.
The word Yoga literally meant the Yolk that joins something together, such as an ox to a cart. The idea is that yoga unites all aspects of being into one.
What most people envision to be Yoga, those contortionist postures, is really only one small aspect of a much larger field of practices. The methods of yoga includes ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and as well as meditation.
The 20th century witnessed a renaissance of yoga that caused a globalization of this ancient tradition. Modern approaches to yoga have created a clear delineation between the Hindu religion and the practice of yoga. Through the practice of yoga, an individual can gain information about physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being.
Over the long history of yoga, different schools have emerged, and there are numerous examples branches and philosophies that have spawned. Ultimately, all agree on one common element the fundamental purpose of yoga is to foster harmony in the body, mind, and environment.
Today yoga is accepted as a comprehensive exercise to promote control of the body and mind. More than just a means of being fit and trim, yoga can help you live a healthy, whole, and empowered life. In recent decades, yoga has greatly and swiftly evolved. Yoga is the most diversified spiritual practice in the world. The living tradition of yoga now recognizes no borders as it continues to spread globally.
