Yoga Motions

Perception - A Free Yoga Video

2011-06-07T20:28:00.003-05:00

In this free yoga video class, John McConnell shows how to do some hip openers and contemplate how perception can play a self-limiting role in our lives. His story is really about what yoga is all about.

John notes, "Yoga is about letting go of weighty perceptions that are self-limiting so we can get to the light, fun stuff. This doesn’t happen over night, and it’s also an ebb and flow of letting go and getting light, and then something else can come along you need to let go off to get back to the light. So, You just keep practicing. As you practice you try to practice with a willingness to shed those views of yourself that aren’t helpful as well as perceptions of your world that don’t do you any good, so you can see your true, fun, light self."

You can find John's video here - Perception

Yoga for Proper Digestion

2011-02-06T16:35:00.001-06:00

Proper digestion can be modified to be more positive with proper yoga poses and breathing. The quality of the blood depends largely upon its proper oxygenation in the lungs, and if it is under-oxygenated it becomes poor in quality and laden with all sorts of impurities, and the system suffers from lack of nourishment, and often becomes actually poisoned by the waste products remaining uneliminated in the blood. As the entire body,every organ and every part, is dependent upon the blood for nourishment, impure blood must have a serious effect upon the entire system. The remedy is plain--practice the Yogi Complete Breath.

Also, provided here is a video on poses for better digestion:

YOGA POSES: Yoga for Digestion - For more of the funniest videos, click here

The stomach and other organs of nutrition suffer much from improper breathing. Not only are they ill nourished by reason of the lack of oxygen, but as the food must absorb oxygen from the blood and become oxygenated before it can be digested and assimilated, it is readily seen how digestion and assimilation is impaired by incorrect breathing. And when assimilation is not normal, the system receives less and less nourishment, the appetite fails, bodily vigor decreases, and energy diminishes, and the man withers and declines. All from the lack of proper breathing. (- Yogi Ramacharaka)

Yoga Video on the iPad

2011-01-30T10:34:00.002-06:00

Amazing! For only $4.99 you can get the most convenient yoga application for the iPad boasting wide-screen workout mode and HD picture quality. With over 200 poses with detailed instructions, photo, video and voice this app is ideal for new practitioners and will push the limits of pros as well.

With individual programs available you can set your goals, level and time limits.

From the site TabletPCReview.com:

"The instructions are all quite clear, and with the ability to filter poses by ability (from beginner to guru) and type (sitting, standing, etc.), it's easy to find exactly what you're looking for. If you're on the road quite a bit and don't have a 3G iPad, you may want to tap the Download All Content button in the Options section, which will download all of the videos and audio instructions to your device. That data will take up roughly 150 MB in space, but that's better than finding out that what you want to see isn't currently on your device when there's no Wi-Fi in sight."

Yoga for Better Sleep

2011-01-09T15:37:00.004-06:00

Guest teacher, Mia Jokiniva shows how to beat insomnia with some basic yoga postures. Relaxation is the most important aspect. The Yoga body Revolution show claims to double your flexibility in 28 days.

Also, during sleep you are in a passive, relaxed condition and all sorts of unseen influences play around you. One interesting option is to try and enclose yourself in an Astral Shell. Concentrate upon your aura and picture it as extending some 18 inches all around you and forming a shell around you. Now take this affirmation to concentrate your mind.

1. I am charging my aura with my Will-Force.

2. It is strong, strong, strong and can and will resist, repel and drive off all bad influences and admit only pure and holy influence.

3. It will remain around me right along the period of my sleep.

Free Beginner Kundalini Yoga Exercise

2011-01-08T10:56:00.008-06:00

I happened to stumble across this wonderful set of free Yoga Videos by Anmol Mehta when I was actually looking for something else. He provides a set of free online Kundalini Yoga practices with some additional beginner's guides that teach you the proper guidance when starting out - 10 Important Guidelines for Kundalini Yoga Practice and the Essential Beginner’s Guide to Yoga Practice.

He offers an amazing amount of information about kundalini, chakra, yoga, meditation and overall personal health. From his own site he mentions the following goals and objectives from his teachings:
- help create a vibrant, healthy, strong, trim and fit body.
- help reduce stress and anxiety, while bestowing greater peace and tranquility.
- enhance joy and happiness.
- improve intelligence and awareness. Giving you more insight, intuition and wisdom.
- increase willpower, confidence, aura and charisma.
- help discover your gifts and passions. Unleash your psychic abilities and healing powers.
- to ennhance compassion and sensitivity.
- help uncover your True Divine Nature and live your life at your Highest Human Potential.

Well worth watching! I definitely will be digging deeper into Anmol's work - in fact, I've added his site to my favorites below. Enjoy.

Free Yoga Video - Power Vinyasa Flow

2011-01-02T21:46:00.005-06:00

This is one of YogaDownload.com's most popular classes! If you are looking for a fast-paced, challenging and fun class, then The Power Vinyasa Flow is the one for you. Dawnelles soothing voice takes you through an incredibly creative power vinyasa flow. The full length class begins with a calming & centering intro, then moves through Sun A, Sun B, a creative Sun B flow which includes crescent lunge, triangle, tripod headstand (if youre ready), balances & spine strengtheners, followed by ab work, a creative balancing / hip opening flow and finally ending with a surrender series and savasana.

Create space in both your body and mind, deeply connect with your breath, all while lengthening and strengthening every muscle in your entire body. You will feel amazing and renewed after this incredible Power Vinyasa Flow class.

Yoga Download link: http://www.yogadownload.com/

Wrist Free Energy Flow Yoga Sample

2010-04-17T11:48:00.003-05:00

Ever feel like your wrists need a rest from Yoga? This yoga flow is designed to minimize loading on the hands while offering a balance of warming and expanding yoga exercises.

Energy Flow Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga - Back Bending with Grace

2010-03-22T20:29:00.004-05:00

This is very advanced Vinyasa Yoga practice. Nico Luce shows us long, flowing yoga pose sequences and a series of blissful, heart opening back bends. Vinyasa Yoga is characterized by a focus on viṅyāsa, or a dynamic connecting posture, that creates a flow between the more static traditional yoga postures. Vinyasa translates as linking and the system also implies the linking of the movement to the breath. Essentially the breath dictates the movement and the length of time held in the postures.

Yoga Fitness and Happiness with Mind Body Smile

2009-08-31T10:10:00.004-05:00

This is a very thoughtful video on yoga breathing techniques. As a great way to warm up your yoga practice, Dr. Rob's plan will refresh and renew.

Be sure to visit their site MindBodySmile when you get a chance. Enjoy.

Video transcription:

Another spectacular day in the Universe
Yoga breath, my intention of the day
The first thing we do as an independent being and new
To take a breath, you do not think, each cell knows just what to do
Yet a shallow breath is often what we do, forgetting the control and connection with you
To not fill our lungs, less oxygen and we do not renew
It is an unconscious thing, poor posture, bad habits, and many unhappy things
Yet the yogi’s know, the breath is the best, a vital practice to make you new
To focus on the breath, a special yoga thing, to reconnect the mind and all beautiful things
To bring the energy of life, a mindfully conscious and uplifting flight
To release tension, bring strength and allow all things to be
For the best of a breath, I start with the nose, a slow wave in
Fill up the abdominal lungs first, then expand the chest, feeling the energy flow in to you
In slow, focus the expansion of the intercostals, strength of the abdominals, subclavicular too
Then the top of the lungs, building up for you, for God is all of me and of you
Feel the energy of life, and the beauty of the Universe in you
Now feel it at its peak, a moment at the top, the beauty of all things
Now slowly out with a smile, loving life all of the while, more wonderful things
You focused on the breath, for this is what brings in clean energy for you
Becoming mindful of the body, the earth, the Universe, and all things that are loving in you

Namaste,

Dr. Rob

States Requiring Yoga Instructors to be Certified

2009-08-24T08:47:00.004-05:00

I read this in the Washington Post today - and found it a bit alarming. "The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia recently declared that studios offering yoga teacher instruction must be certified. That involves a $2,500 fee, audits, annual charges of at least $500 and a pile of paperwork....As yoga grows into a mainstream activity for stressed professionals and parents, similar dust-ups are playing out nationwide. In June, New York's State Education Department sent a letter to yoga instructor training programs telling them that those that aren't licensed faced a $50,000 fine. The state backed off after yoga instructors complained and the media covered the controversy. Michigan also started regulating the programs this year."

You can read the rest at:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/08/23/AR2009082302152.html

Yoga Fitness: Hatha Yoga Video Tutorial

2009-08-19T16:05:00.003-05:00

This fantastic 11 episode series walks through all aspects of Yoga Fitness using Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga is a specialized branch of bodily postures and techniques for health and longevity. Hatha is useful, and produces spectacular physical results, but this branch of yoga is little used by yogis bent on spiritual liberation.

The Raja Yoga seeks to control the changes in consciousness, and by this control to rule the material vehicles. The Hatha Yoga seeks to control the vibrations of matter, and by this control to evoke the desired changes in consciousness.

The weak point in Hatha Yoga is that action on this line cannot reach beyond the astral plane, and the great strain imposed on the comparatively intractable matter of the physical plane sometimes leads to atrophy of the very organs, the activity of which is necessary for effecting the changes in consciousness that would be useful.

Yoga in Hawaii - This is My Dream

2009-01-31T08:13:00.007-06:00

How could anything be better than this! Yoga in Hawaii. I really would love to do something like this. This school offers three main tracks of hatha yoga study: a gentle track (Yoga Basics), a more vigorous one (Vinyasa Flow) and a very athletic form of yoga (Ashtanga)—depending on your personal inclination. Taught in the traditional style of the yoga masters, they include pranayama and meditation.

Located in the Kaimuki district of Honolulu, Yoga Hawaii is a community that believes that all yoga styles ultimately lead to stillness, an experience of deep peace, and a returning back to Source energy.

Please, if anyone goes, write a review or at least post a comment.

Tibetan Buddhism - Amazing Video Series on Sound Healing

2009-01-17T10:10:00.006-06:00

Sometimes life gets so busy and passes you by that you're not sure where the time went. Time to meditate, time to do yoga, time to read, and time to spend with family & friends. I don't know what happened over the last six months but it always seems like by mid January I'm back to grounding myself again. February is my NaYoPraMo month (modeled after NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writers Month) - it is my National Yoga Practice Month. More to come on that.

Anyway I found this wonderful series of videos on Tibetan Sound Healing from the Ligmincha Institute in Virginia. It is given by Geshe Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, founder and spiritual director. He is an author as well as a highly respected and beloved teacher to students throughout the United States, Mexico and Europe. He was ordained as a monk at Menri Monastery near Dolanji, India. There he was recognized by head teacher Lopon Sangye Tenzin Rinpoche as a reincarnation of the famous master Khyung Tul Rinpoche, a renowned meditation master, teacher, scholar and healer who died in the mid-20th century.

Fluent in English, Tenzin Rinpoche is renowned for his depth of wisdom; his clear, engaging teaching style - and his ability to make the ancient Tibetan teachings highly accessible and relevant to the lives of Westerners.

Please take some time - each video is about nine minutes and there are seven videos in the series. Enjoy!

Yoga Video Series from Expert Village

2008-10-26T11:29:00.008-05:00

Expert Village has a great online video series hosted by Lynne Nicole Smith. She is a certified yoga instructor and registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance. She is also a certified integral qigong and tai chi teacher and dance instructor. She leads classes and workshops throughout New England at various retreat centers, yoga studios, senior centers and elementary schools, and is now expanding her movement instruction on a national level.

Yoga: 3 Part Breath -- powered by ExpertVillage.com

Coming from the Sanskrit root meaning "to bind" or "join", the word yoga is about joining the mind to the body, the human to the divine, or the individual to the infinite.

The various styles of yoga share a common belief: positioning the body into a particular posture while focusing mind and breath leads to physical and spiritual well-being. The arts of positioning the body has been passed on for thousands of years, and encompass some of the oldest cultural traditions known to exist. To practice yoga, then, is also to join with the ancient sages, drawing human history up into oneself and connecting with the past, present and future. In this free video series on yoga, registered yoga instructor, Lynn Nicole Smith performs several yoga poses for relieving stress and increasing flexibility.

Smith discusses a few breathing techniques, including: the ha breath, mindful breathing, the three-part breath and even the barrel breath. She then demonstrates a variety of yoga poses, such as: the warrior two pose, triangle pose, tree pose, straddle stretch, cat and dog pose, pigeon pose and the wind-relieving pose. Watch these videos and learn several rejuvenating yoga poses today.

Yoga, Meditation in Action

2008-09-14T20:00:00.007-05:00

I listened to Speaking of Faith this morning and was extremely inspired to get my yoga fitness back in motion again. If you haven't heard Seane Corn speak on yoga be sure to listen to the podcast.
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Yoga studios are cropping up on street corners across the U.S. Now there are yoga classes at YMCAs, law schools, and corporate headquarters. This 5000-year-old spiritual technology is converging intriguingly with 21st-century medical science and with many religious and philosophical perspectives. Seane Corn takes us inside the practicalities and power of yoga, and describes how it helps her face the darkness in herself and the world.

Speaking of Faith: Yoga, Meditation and Action with Seane Corn

Iyengar Practicing Backbends

2008-08-19T20:11:00.001-05:00

Interesting to see Iyengar practicing. Wish I could do this! BKS Iyengar practicing some backbends in Pune, India 1991.

My Yoga Online Launches Video Website

2008-05-20T21:01:00.004-05:00

I happened to see this announcement recently. This site looks great for yoga fitness online videos!

MyYogaOnline.com (http://www.myyogaonline.com/) has re-launched its website with improved enhancements that ensure all videos stream in full screen near DVD quality at DSL and cable accessible speeds.

Co-Founder Jason Jacobson noted, "By updating our streaming video platform to the latest technology, we are ensuring that our large library of yoga, Pilates, and meditation videos will be available to the greatest number of users worldwide, regardless of computer type, location, or internet speed. No more need for DVD’s, as MyYogaOnline.com’s unprecedented video library of classes in Yoga, Pilates, Mediation and Wellness, are available anytime, anywhere, at the fraction of the cost of one DVD or studio class."

My Yoga Online has been expanding the knowledge of Yoga, health and wellness since its inception in 2005. MyYogaOnline.com provides convenient, flexible and affordable Yoga, Pilates and Meditation programs taught via streaming video by world class certified teachers.

Yoga In The Workforce - The Health Benefits Of Practicing Yoga At Work

2008-05-04T08:36:00.004-05:00

More and more employers are realizing the benefits of practicing Yoga in the workforce. With the increase in stress levels of employees, employers are now exploring different ways of relieving these stresses. While some are allowing employees to take naps others have decided to begin practicing yoga at work.

Some businesses have even gone so far as incorporating yoga into the daily routine of their employees and have seen an increase in productivity as well as a more content workforce.

Many employers have become aware of the fact that in addition to reducing stress they're also contributing to the overall health of their employees. As a result employees are taking fewer days off work for sickness. It just makes good business sense to encourage Yoga in the workplace as it seems to be paying dividends in the long term.

Yoga has increased in popularity with business professionals who lead a fast paced and stressful life who find that regular sessions of yoga help to reduce their stress considerably and make them more productive.

The fact that a person practicing Yoga doesn't require the use of bulky equipment simply means that Yoga can be practiced anywhere and is not restricted to a gym or even a designated room within the office. A practitioner can easily perform a series of Yoga exercises at their desk with the use of a reasonable chair in a carpeted office. This makes it convenient for the practitioner as well as economical for the employer.

Another benefit to the employer is the fact that Yoga can be practiced by employees of all ages. Even people who have never exercised in their life are able to start yoga and see results almost immediately. Practicing Yoga in the workplace can also help in relieving those aches and pains which are so common among those employees who work for hours sitting at a desk working on a computer.

Research has shown that taking short breaks during the day where basic yoga exercises are performed can relieve pain, reduce fatigue and increase safety in the workforce due to the improvements in these areas. While all employees would benefit by having Yoga in the workforce, employees whose daily tasks are repetitive such as office workers or factory workers would benefit most from practicing yoga in the workforce.

To download your FREE guide "STRESS-BUSTING STRETCHES" click on Yoga Stretches For The Office and for a limited time you'll also receive our Weekly Yoga For Exercise Or Alternative Health newsletter, jammed packed full of special offers and reviews delivered to your inbox absolutely FREE.

Yoga For Health has now partnered with one of the fastest growing healthy living companies in the country. This is great news as we are now pleased to offer Yoga Accessories like YOGA MATS, CLOTHES, STRAPS and SHOES at discounted prices. Visit us today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=B_D_Kenny http://EzineArticles.com/?Yoga-In-The-Workforce---The-Health-Benefits-Of-Practicing-Yoga-At-Work&id=1129024

Yoga Block - What Happened?

2008-04-12T15:19:00.004-05:00

I imagine that if you are a reader of this blog you've been wondering what happened to me and the results of my Yoga month. I'm very sorry about the delay on this - at the end of Feb. there was a sickness in my family that forced me to travel to Arizona in March.

Good news was that I got through three weeks of my Yoga month but ended up with spotty sessions during the last week. March was overwhelming with the trip combined with an awful work schedule. Suddenly, two months had passed!

By the end of February my flexibility was pretty amazing plus being down three pounds. Unfortunately, as usual with trips - my yoga routines ended.

So now I'm back on track - gearing up for summer with April showing promise to continue my own yoga progression.

Yoga Week 1 Complete of 28 Days!

2008-02-09T10:05:00.000-06:00

Woo Hoo!! I did it this week. I was able to complete 8 straight days of Yoga. It was tough - I just about missed it on Super Tuesday. The day was very stressful at work causing me to forget about doing any exercise - plus, I unfortunately ate a large dinner and watched the Super Tuesday results.

Suddenly, at around 9:30pm, it occurred to me that I had forgotten to do Yoga. So I just started doing some positions while watching the results. Not the best workout - but I managed to do about 20 minutes. Anything counts in my book.

I hope you're finding a way to do it as well! Keep on going.

My Own 28 Days of Yoga

2008-02-01T11:46:00.000-06:00

Alright, I'm a bit depressed after I found that someone else had thought of a National Yoga Practice Month. I woked up last week with the ultimate inspiration that I am going to do yoga every day in February - well, except Feb. 29th since it is a leap year.

I then remembered NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writers Month last November that many budding writers use as inspiration to get their writing skills down. This has become so popular that many have copied this idea for other topics - blogging, filmmaking, etc.

I thought that yoga would be great and that February would be an excellent month to try this. It's cold, cloudy, Christmas is over, all the last obligations are done - generally very uninspiring. So, thinking of doing 28 days of yoga seems like a good cause. I really didn't think I would start a trend with a NaYoPraMo site. Someone thought of it first - check out:

http://woyopracmo.ning.com/
http://nayopracmo.wordpress.com/

Anyway - I'm going to do it! I've started today and will report my progress week by week. Don't worry - you have time to catch up as well. If you start tomorrow you can get 2 yoga sessions in on a Saturday.

Good luck and I hope you join me on this journey!

My Personal Yoga Journey

2008-01-14T08:06:00.000-06:00

I should start this post by noting that I haven't updated it in six weeks due to my own personal journey getting back into yoga again. After Thanksgiving I had gained yet another five pounds of body fat and was reaching my point of ultimate frustration. Part of the reason I started this blog in the first place was to not only learn about yoga - but also to motivate myself to get back into doing it as a part of my lifestyle. I really want to change my life.

So, beginning about December 1st I started a full yoga program - be it only 30 minutes a day. But, from Nov 26th to Dec 24th I was doing yoga about six days a week. At first I was very disappointed with my overall yoga fitness - my flexibility was horrible, I started to see how poorly I was breathing, and my balance was completely shot. Nevertheless, I kept at it.

By the end of December much had changed for the positive. First, I lost five pounds over the month! Second, my flexibility increased dramatically - funny story; near the end of Dec. I was at home and happened to drop some papers on the floor. When I reached down to pick them up I literally just about flipped over completely on my back. My head accelerated so fast toward the floor due to my increased flexibility that I thought I was going to knock myself out by conking my forehead. I haven't seen the floor accelerate toward me so fast!

I imagine you're wondering what kind of workout I was doing. I just started with simple Hatha Yoga positions and some breathing. Now, I didn't dig deep on the breathing side - just basic breath with positions. If you look at my October 22nd entry on Beginning Yoga you will see the kinds of positions I was doing.

I hope this gives you some charge to get started or to get back into yoga!

New Documentary - Yoga Unveiled

2007-11-27T22:26:00.000-06:00

I thought this looked like a very interesting history of Yoga video. It provides an excellent overview of yoga fitness. Here is the description of the film:

'No longer an obscure practice just for spiritual seekers, yoga has truly become a mainstream practice. Now everyone from the athlete to the business man goes to yoga class. Everyone has heard of yoga, many people have gone to a yoga studio, but how many people know what yoga really is? This is the first documentary to explore that question. Yoga Unveiled transports us back to the historic roots of yoga in ancient India, and gives us illuminating snapshots of its evolution from an ancient tradition to its migration around the world. The film also explores yoga's astonishing medical potential. In this film we get a genuine glimpse of the evolution and essence of yoga.'

Beginning Yoga

2007-10-22T08:15:00.000-05:00

I think this yoga video is a great way to get started. Over the last few months I've been searching for a good beginner's guide to yoga fitness that would encompass the breathing, serenity, strength and poise. Many online videos or cable tv shows don't seem to combine all of these elements.

However, this one is great. Take a look.

Bikram Yoga is Hard, Very Hard!

2007-10-17T09:21:00.000-05:00

I found this great article online from a student newpaper at Pomona College. You think that yoga fitness is difficult? Wait until you take a look at this!

"Bikram yoga is hard. How hard? If you can still feel all of your arm muscles after the first five minutes, you’re probably doing it wrong. For 90 minutes a day, Bikram devotees go through a series of 26 poses with names like “awkward,” “spine-twisting,” and “dead body.” " ...

Read the rest of this article at: Bikram Yoga Puts Twister to Shame

Yoga Video on Laughing Yoga

2007-10-13T11:00:00.000-05:00

I can't say I've ever come across something like this before - Laughing Yoga! It seems very odd yet I'm finding quite a bit of information online about it.

Apparently, Laughing Yoga is a technique that uses a blend of playful, simple laughter exercises. With gentle breathing and stretching exercises, rhythmic clapping and chanting of Ho Ho Ha Ha Ha in unison a simulated laughter turns into real laughter. As a means to improve health, increase well-being and promote peace in the world, Laughing Yoga can deliver this through personal transformation.

Ashtanga Yoga Demo

2007-10-08T08:42:00.000-05:00

This amazing video shows Ashtanga Yoga poses and a level of yoga fitness that most of us would love to reach in our own lives! Enjoy - I love this video.

Mayo Clinic Offers Free Yoga Video

2007-09-23T20:09:00.000-05:00

Yoga offers many potential health and stress-reducing benefits. The Mayo Clinic is offering a quick introduction to five basic yoga poses that help reduce stress. It's easy to follow along and try the exercises, or just watch to get a sense of basic yoga fitness.

You can find this video at:

Video: Yoga for stress management

Bhakti Yoga – The Science Of Devotion

2007-08-24T15:51:00.000-05:00

Bhakti means devotion to the Almighty. Bhakti yoga deals with devotion to God and achieving the union with Him. This is the easiest of all yoga types. This branch of yoga teaches the relation between the devotee and the divine. It does not involve any technical or complicated procedures. There is no need of any intellectual capacity to master this yoga. It has appealed to the common man because it gives him a feeling security and develops a kind of reliance and dependence on the object of his devotion.

Bhakti yoga assumes that there is a higher power that has created the universe and is all-powerful. This power has the capacity to confer grace and mercy on him and thus protecting him from all the harms and evils. The devotee or bhakta is expected to make himself fit for receiving this divine grace. For this, he has to practice devotion and virtue. His ultimate goal should be to unite with this divine power and rest eternally in happiness and peace. The devotee surrenders all his motives and acts to the Divine Power. He renounces all responsibilities towards the good or bad consequences of all his actions and ascribes it to the will of the Supreme.

Devotion and faith play a vital role in this branch of yoga. The devotee or bhakta is supposed to be highly religious, should adopt a friendly stance towards all the other living beings including animals, read religious texts, concentrate on the symbol of the Divine, think and wish well for others etc. The beauty of this yoga lies in its simplicity. This has made it one of the most appealing of all the yoga types. Following this yoga develops the peace of mind in an individual. A peaceful individual will always think happy and prosperous thoughts and will thus lead a happy life.

About The Author

Sharon Hopkins is the webmaster of Yogawiz (www.yogawiz.com) that provides loads of information on basics of yoga, the need to do yoga and health benefits. Bhakti yoga is a devotional branch of yoga which teaches a person to ascribe all the events in his life to Divine Will.

Ease Into Ashtanga - Introduction to the Lessons

2007-08-03T22:05:00.001-05:00

As I continue to find information regarding types of Yoga I stumbled on to this video on Ashtanga Yoga. This is a very good introduction to Ashtanga and would be a great way to begin your workouts. Ashtanga Yoga is a yoga system created by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois at the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India. This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with progressive series of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.

Kriya Yoga Lesson 1 of 3: Yogic Physics - Yogiraj Siddhanath

2007-07-21T22:44:00.001-05:00

I've recently become interested in Kriya Yoga. Not having really heard of it before I will be posting more information over the next few months. It seems to cover all aspects of both bodily yoga fitness as well as breathing and meditation.

Understanding the Different Types of Yoga

2007-07-19T16:49:00.000-05:00

Yoga is becoming a more and more popular activity in the Western world today. The number of places holding Yoga classes is on the increase and there is a plethora of different types of Yoga. With a choice of Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Power Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga and many more it can be easy to get confused

The article will help you to understand the difference between the most popular types of Yoga so you can choose which type is right for you.

Hatha Yoga - in Sanskrit (an ancient classical language of India) “Ha” means “sun” and “tha” means “moon”. This type of Yoga is relatively slow paced, gentle type of Yoga and is a good place to start if you are completely new to Yoga and don't know any of the asanas (poses). Like all types of Yoga, Hatha Yoga aims to unite the mind, body and spirit.

Ashtanga Yoga - this is the type of Yoga that I practice on a regular basis and means “eight limbs” in Sanskrit. It's a fast moving, intense style of Yoga practice and is based on a progressive set sequence of asanas, synchronized with the breath. Ashtanga Yoga can be quite physically demanding as you constantly move from one asana in the sequence to the next, so you'll find that it will improve your stamina as well as your flexibility and strength..

Power Yoga - this is a western interpretation of Yoga and is based on Ashtanga Yoga. A Power Yoga class may not necessarily stick to the exact sequence of poses like Ashtanga Yoga does, but it does involve practicing a series of poses without stopping and starting.

Iyengar Yoga - This type of Yoga is based on teachings by B.K.S Igengar and concentrates on the correct alignment and form of the body. Unlike Ashtanga Yoga, there is an emphasis on holding each pose for a long period of time rather than moving constantly from one pose to the next. Iyengar Yoga uses props such as blocks and straps to help align the body into the different poses.

Vinyasa Yoga - Vinyasa means breath synchronized movement and is another fast paced type of Yoga, with an emphasis on breathing. A practice typically starts with sun salutations and moves on to more intense stretching. Throughout the practice each pose is balanced with a counter pose.

Bikram Yoga - otherwise known as “Hot Yoga”, is practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees, with a humidity of around 40%. Generally a sequence of 26 different poses is practiced during a Bikram Yoga class and the hot temperature helps to loosen muscles. Due to the high temperature most people sweat a lot during the class and this helps to cleanse the body of toxins.

If you're just starting out or have never done any Yoga before, I recommend trying a few different types of yoga to find out what you like best.

Remember, there's no rule that says you have to stick to one type of Yoga. I like Ashtanga Yoga best, but I also go to occasional Iyengar and Hatha Yoga classes for a bit of variety.

To find out more about the different types of Yoga visit the Free online Yoga Guide

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzanne_Morrison http://EzineArticles.com/?Understanding-the-Different-Types-of-Yoga&id=58887

Back Bends for Enhanced Well-Being

2007-07-02T09:12:00.000-05:00

I found this at the Yoga Today video archive. The backbending positions are excellent and feel great!

Note that the videos are very high quality - but, they are very large. So, if you don't have a high bandwidth connection I wouldn't try them.

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Yoga Today's 392nd episode is an all-levels Ashtanga sequence. Adi will open our hearts and enhance well being through backbends. Back bending is a great way to improve circulation, respiration, your overall attitude toward life and yoga fitness.

Yoga, Meditation and Reincarnation

2007-06-26T22:39:00.000-05:00

Recently I have been wondering about how yoga and meditation might tap into reincarnation. Being a spiritual person but not overly religious I've always had a very faint sense of a couple of my past lives. One was as a soldier in WWII and another as a young boy somewhere in the Arabian peninsula - Yemen, I think. I was never really sure if these memories, visions, dreams are really just a fantasy or part of some real threads of past memories.

I first became interested in yoga when my sister gave me a copy of Jess Stern's Yoga, Youth and Reincarnation. As an introduction to Hatha Yoga it really turned me on to the possibility of better health as well as greater mental and spiritual insight. As I started practicing some of the beginning and intermediate exercises I started to notice the physical changes. The benefits of yoga fitness were becoming very visible - however, I wanted to focus on meditation as well.

Now I am reading Many Lives, Many Masters and feeling a sense that using a combination of yoga, meditation and past life research might lead to a highly accelerated state of consciousness and inner peace. Time will tell but I am intrigued.

If any readers have experienced a combination of past life memories and yoga I would love to publish the comments here.

Meditation and Yoga ancient origins - Yogiraj Siddhanath

2007-06-23T15:34:00.000-05:00

Yogiraj Gurunath Siddhanath is an illumined living master, seer, and helps sincere practitioners of yogic meditation awaken to higher levels of consciousness through chakra awakening/activation and esoteric practices of Himalayan yoga.

Yogiraj was born on May 10, 1944 in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. He has been meditating since the age of 3, and spent his early years in the Himalayas amongst the HamsaNath yogis, in whose presence he was transformed. The divine transformation deepened after his deep and personal experiences in 1961 and 1967 with the yogi-christ Mahavatar Shiv-Goraksha-Babaji, the same spiritual master described in Yogananda's Autobiography of a Yogi.

He has a wife of over 30 years, Gurumata Shivangani, with whom he built by hand the Hamsa Yoga Sangh Ashram (Spiritual Retreat) outside the city of Pune, near Bombay, India. They have two sons, and two grandchildren. Yogiraj teaches yogic meditation for the evolution of human consciousness.

These practices of yoga meditation and yoga fitness are the most ancient closely guarded sacred practices of the Himalayan yogis and masters from time immemorial. They help the practitioner gradually transform him/herself into the likeness of his/her own divinity. This ancient art and science has been a way of life for rare yogis and ascetics of India and abroad who have sacrificed everything in the search for their own inner Truth, their inner Godessence.

Today, Yogiraj demonstrates in his own life and livingness, that powerful spiritual practice can be integrated with family life and a career. By the blessings of Babaji, Yogiraj teaches these techniques, which he calls "The Alchemy of Total Transformation" to sincere seekers throughout the world, who wish to integrate these practices into their daily life, without the necessity of giving up worldly pursuits.

These techniques are called:
1. Mahavatar Babaji's Kriya Yoga (N.B., the exact same kundalini kriya originally given to Lahiri Mahasaya in the 19th century)
2. Siddhanath Surya Yoga - A dynamic osmosis of solar healing. Pranic healing with solar power.
3. Siddhanath Hamsa Yoga - The Way of the White Swan.

Hamsa Yoga Sangh

Free Online Yoga

2007-06-17T21:26:00.000-05:00

As you've probably guessed by now I'm always interested when I find a site devoted to free online yoga exercises and yoga fitness programs.

I just happened to stumbled across a site today that promotes animated Hatha Yoga lessons. It has 40 animated yoga postures, 10 animated yoga breathing techniques and 20 animated stress postures.

Take a look at Hatha Yoga Lesson when you have some time. I like this format for some quick tips and easy lessons.

What Makes Ashtanga Yoga Different?

2007-06-12T22:37:00.000-05:00

Ashtanga Yoga is the type of yoga which was created and established by a master named K. Pattabhi Jois. Due to it's theory containing eight different limbs, or components, it is also known as "Eight-Limb Yoga". It doesn't imply that the practitioner has a double set of limbs, but master Pattabhi Jois showed that the optimum path of purification is made up of the eight spiritual practices.

The basic idea is that these limbs only can be kept in balance by the appropriate application of the Ashtanga Yoga method.

The first four limbs that symbolize Ashtanga Yoga, and are considered externally correctable are (original names within double quotes):
- Moral codes or "yama"
- Self-purification or "niyama"
- Posture or "asana"
- Breath control or "pranayama"

Then there is the other set of limbs which are the internal practices:
- Sense control or "pratyahara"
- Meditation or "dhyana"
- Concentration or "dharana"
- Contemplation or "samadhi"

K. Pattabhi Jois declared that practicing these Eight Limbs as well as its sub-limbs of the external practices which contain the niyama and yama is impossible. In doing so, the body should be strong so that it can technically perform the methods well enough. If the body is weak, and the sense organs are not functioning well, practicing will never be productive at all.

This is a primary philosophy that K. Pattabhi Jois has applied, it is of prime importance for the Asthanga practitioner to learn and understand this way of thinking. This will make you confident in that the body will significantly improve and become stronger and healthier.

Vinsaya and Tristhana are performed in Ashtanga Yoga.

The Vinsaya is a style that makes Ashtanga and its fundamental principles different from the others. Vinsaya basically means the movement and breathing which is used effectively together in order to cleanse the body. Each movement done is accompanied by only one breath. Sweat is the most important product of Vinsaya. When you produce sweat, it only indicates that you are successfully applying the method. When you perform the Asanas, or postures, the body produces heat which causes your blood to "boil" and excrete the toxins outside of your body. The contaminations are found in your sweat. So the more sweat you produce, the more toxins are released. This is the natural way for the body to get rid of unwanted substances.

The poses are used to fully develop the physical strength and health of the body. It is the sequence of practices that make this possible. There are three postures used in Ashtaga Yoga.

The three are grouped on different levels:

- The first is the Primary Series which aims on aligning the body and also detoxifying it.

- The second is the Intermediate Series opening and cleansing the energy channels which comes to the process of purifying the Nervous System.

- The last series would be the Advanced Series from A to D. In this set, the grace and strength are assessed.

The Tristhana is another yoga principle which symbolizes the close union of the three places of action and attention. First is the posture, second is the breathing technique ad last is the Dristhi of the Looking Place. All these three should work altogether to perform a function.

The breathing is always controlled and synchronized with the movements, in such a way that each movement is accompanied by breath. Ujjayi Breathing is the Yoga Breathing Technique used in the implementation of Ashtanga Yoga. Applying this ancient technique is something that you should work on gradually in your daily practise. What you need to master is holding your pose longer at the same time hold your breath. This is an amazing breathing exercise that will intensify your internal fire and will toughen the Nervous System.

Both Ashtanga and Tristhana deal with the series of Dristhi. The Dristhi is defined as the point on which you acquire your focus or concentration while doing the Asana. This allows your mind to be purified and stabilized clearly.

Clearing your mind (that is sometimes compared to an over active monkey) and cleansing it is the ultimate goal in the Eight-Limb Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga.

About The Author:

Michael Hawkins writes books and articles about Yoga, fitness and health. A beginners guide to Yoga ,that explores this exciting world of exercise and meditation, is available at his website http://www.yoga-central.net

Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_27882_23.html

Understanding Yoga Fitness

2007-05-29T21:55:00.000-05:00

If you are brand new to practicing yoga you will probably find that understanding its historical background will give you a good context around yoga fitness and why you are doing it. By understanding that yoga is not just physical activity but also a full lifestyle approach you'll come to appreciate its complete health benefits.

No one really knows who first developed yoga except for the fact that it seemed to have originated somewhere in the Indus Valley regions of Northern India. References to yoga first appeared in both archaeological and written references about 3000 to 5000 years ago. The first compilation of yoga practices seems to have appeared about 2200 years ago with the publication of a book called the 'Yoga Sutras' by the author Patanjali.

The Yoga Sutras are a compilation of 196 yoga principles and philosophy that are meant to be memorized and incorporated into one's lifestyle. These principles have become to be known as the foundation of Raja Yoga with a primary focus on the mind taming the body and enhancing the spirit.

The Raja Yoga discipline as described in the sutras is divided into eight steps - otherwise known as the eight 'limbs'. Each step focuses on aspects around lifestyle, purity, body, breathing and meditation. Here is a high level description of each:

1. Yama - abstentions for living virtuously such as truth, non-violence and continence
2. Niyama - observances and disciplines for mind and body
3. Asana - bodily postures for meditation
4. Pranayama - regulated breath and control of the life force
5. Pratyahara - sensory withdrawal of the mind from the physical world
6. Dharana - meditative concentration on an object - knowing you are meditating
7. Dhyana - meditation with no consciousness of the act of meditation
8. Samadhi - enlightenment

As you probably noticed modern yoga, as it is typically practiced today, is heavily influenced by steps three and four - the Asana and Pranayama limbs. Most modern yoga fitness programs are related to the practices of Raja Yoga in the form of Hatha Yoga which is a system focused on physical purification to assist the later meditative effects of steps five through nine. Hatha Yoga is comprised of a large number of bodily postures designed to develop balance, poise and strength.

Today, the mainstream instruction of yoga includes many body positions and breathing exercises that have been found to be extremely beneficial to personal well being, fitness and health. Practiced over time yoga can become a path to improving anyone's lifestyle. By combining this practice with the additional Raja 'limbs', yoga can lead you an enlightened life change.

Yoga and Agelessness

2007-05-23T21:56:00.000-05:00

If you've ever seen anyone in their 60's, 70's or 80's who are avid practitioners of yoga you understand the amazing youthful benefits it can provide.

Susan Barclay, a hypnotherapist and exercise instructor, is the producer of "Light Moves" - an exercise video, released in 2005, that uses stretching, balancing and strengthening exercises to strengthen your mind, body, and spirit. She has been involved with the practice and teaching of yoga fitness for years, and says that the concept of agelessness comes from some of the principles of yoga.

The goal of "Light Moves" is to improve flexibility in the mind, body and spirit.

"The secret of Light Moves' power lies in the combination of carefully choreographed moves, specially designed music, and positive statements (called Reflections) that use the transformative energy of your own inner resources."

Barclay says that learning agelessness is learning to stay healthy in body, mind and spirit to live life as fully as possible each moment. Agelessness involves listening to the inner self and being only as old as a person feels, not letting society determine how a person is supposed to act or feel based on a number.

"The Instructional Segments lead you through yoga- and Pilates-style stretches,
balance moves and strengthening exercises. As in Tai-Chi, the moves flow
into one another like a sensuous dance. And once you can do the moves
comfortably, the Performance Segment alone will guide your workout. There,
you'll hear the Reflections voiced softly but clearly in the background.
Since your conscious mind is focused on movement, the Reflections are
mostly heard at an unconscious level. This increases your power to use the
positive statements to bring about the changes you want to see and feel in
yourself."

You can check out Light Moves here!

Yoga Postures - The Warrior

2007-05-13T14:59:00.000-05:00

I just happened to be browsing 5min.com - Life Videopedia today and came across Orly Burstein's videos on some basic yoga positions. She is a yoga instructor from Florida with seven years of experience. Her online yoga fitness videos seem very practical and useful.

I had never seen 5min.com before - which seems like a very interesting idea. Here is a quote from their site:

"The idea behind 5min is very simple: any solution can be visually explained in no more than 5 minutes. Our goal is to create the first communal Life Videopedia allowing users from all over the globe to contribute their knowledge by sharing visual guides in areas such as arts, business, fashion, sports, health, tech, food, and much more."

Yoga Meditation Visualized - Swami Jnaneshvara Bharati

2007-05-03T21:41:00.001-05:00

I found this interesting yoga video overview of the inner goal of Yoga on Google videos. As you can see, yoga fitness is not just physical but includes the mind.
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The goal of Yoga is Yoga itself, union itself, of the little self and the True Self, a process of awakening to the preexisting union that ... all » is called Yoga. Yoga has to do with the realization through direct experience of the center of consciousness, the preexisting union between Atman and Brahman, Jivatman and Paramatman, and Shiva and Shakti, or the realization of Purusha standing alone as separate from Prakriti.

Yoga, Sankhya, Vedanta, and Tantra view the human as manifesting outward step-by-step, whereby the subtler consciousness projects evermore outward, and then gradually forgets those subtler levels. Genesis also explains this outward movement when seen through the eye of the Yogi or mystic.

Yoga is complete unto itself. In Yoga, each level of our being is trained independently, while also being trained to flow together. The systematic processes deal one-by-one with our actions in the world, senses, body, breath, and both the conscious and unconscious aspects of mind.

Yoga or "Union" is attained by first training, balancing, and purifying each of the aspects of our being individually, and then systematically receding attention inward through those levels, expanding so as to experience the state of Union, Yoga, Samadhi, or Turiya.

Whether you call it Grace, God, Guru, Shaktipat, or some other name, the greatest help of all finally comes from within to remove the final barrier of ignorance (Avidya). This final stage is a process that has been called piercing the pearl of wisdom (Bindu). A Yogi does not debate whether the Realization is called Yoga, Self, Atman, Soul, or God, etc., but rather, lives "in" the world while not being "of" the world.

The Realized Yogi lives like a lotus flower. The lotus is both "in" the world, yet not "of" the world. It grows in the soil and water of the world, yet rises above it at the same time. It goes outward (Adhyasa), but is not blinded by Ignorance (Avidya) of its true nature.

Swami Jnaneshvara Bharati

VideoJug's Free Online Yoga Videos

2007-04-29T09:11:00.000-05:00

I recently stumbled across this site that provides a wealth of free online videos about numerous topics. Most of the ones I watched were actually pretty well done and had some deep, expert instruction. At first I didn't think of it that they might have an instructional yoga video series. But, the surprise was is that they do - not bad either and seems to be a good yoga fitness series.

Take a look yourself:

VideoJug: Yoga: Standing Postures - Part 1

Yoga Videos on the Go!

2007-04-25T12:16:00.000-05:00

If you are taking yoga classes while trying to juggle your lifestyle tasks throughout the day you probably are interested in this. Yoga Today is now offering free one-hour online yoga videos filmed in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. With new yoga fitness shows every day you are not bound to a static schedule and can view sessions taught by premiere instructors, Neesha Zollinger, Sarah Kline and Adi Amar.

Have a laptop and a wireless connection? Just place on the floor next to your mat and you are set with a free master class every day. That's truly an amazing value considering the time and cost needed to get to and from yoga classes. It's not for everyone especially if you like being close to others having one-on-one access to an instructor. But, even as a supplement you can't go wrong with these yoga videos.

Beginning Yoga Breathing - All You Need To Know

2007-04-12T22:26:00.000-05:00

Author: Mike Singh

In yoga, breathing is everything. Breathing is more than just an intake of oxygen. It is also a way of cleansing the body and restoring equilibrium. But, in order to gain high quality results from the breathing that you do, you must do them correctly. There is no quick way to learn the right technique, but here are a few pointers to bear in mind while starting out with yoga breathing.

Kapalabhati- basic yoga breathing. In this method, you learn to breathe in order to purify the body. It is one of the six different Kriyas practices. Your breath is short, strong and fast. The lung acts as a pump that expels the waste from it. Here, you are deliberately breathing faster while breathing through your stomach and not your chest.

Alternate Nostril Breathing Technique- This is another basic yet fundamentally important type of breathing technique. Here, you will breathe through one nostril, hold your breath and then exhale through the opposite nostril. The ratio of inhale:hold:exhale is 2:8:4.

Brahmari- This type of less used yoga breathing is done by partially closing the glottis and then inhaling through both of your nostrils. Your lips are closed and the palate will vibrate due to the nasal airflow.

Sithali, Sitkari- This is a rarely used type of yoga breathing. It works in a different manner. Here you stick your tongue out a little and then softly curl the sides of the tongue up. Now, start inhaling through your mouth.

Yoga exercises are fundamental to the breathing work that you do. In any type of session, you will be taught the fundamentals of breathing. This is due to the simple fact that it is the source of life. It is essential to cleansing the body. It is one of the central focuses of successful, effective yoga.

Source: Submit Articles at ArticlesBase.com
About the Author:Mike Singh is the publisher of http://www.yoga-made-ez.com/ On his website he provides free yoga exercises and more information about the different types of yoga .

Free Yoga DVD

2007-04-05T21:14:00.000-05:00

Many know that once you begin your journey into yoga the amazing benefits for mind and body keep you coming back for more. However, sometimes it takes a little motivation to get started. 'Yoga Online - Mind & Body' is now offering a Free Beginners Yoga DVDs - Yoga Videos to download online and propel you into a comprehensive approach to health and fitness.

This amazing free Yoga DVD is a high quality, visual instruction for yoga fitness beginners providing 20 yoga postures, repeatable routines, and enjoyable workouts for any age. Yoga Online spent around 600-700 hours to create with the intent to have a guide they wished they had when first starting out.
Here's part of a sample testimonial from the site:

"I just wanted to thank you guys for making the free beginners video available. I'm 48 yrs old. I've been very active my entire life. Currently my principal sport is long distance cycling though I also continue to weight train and run.

Prolonged periods on the bike (and I getting older I suppose) made it really clear that I was getting far out balance. Various aches and pains, running injuries, etc led me to look at Yoga just a few weeks ago. After watching the first video it was clear that Yoga will be included in my daily life. It fills a large void and nicely compliments the strength and endurance training.

I rented at least 5 different top beginner Yoga videos. Not a single one resonates with me the way that yours does. So many of the videos are sold to show a super flexible instructor who, while wonderful to watch, flows from position to position in ways that no beginner ever could....

Thank you again ! Your efforts half way across the world have had a very positive impact in my life. -Robert"

Hatha Yoga for Beginners: Tools for Happiness

2007-03-04T21:30:00.000-06:00

By Paul Jerard

After spending time in a class with your Yoga teacher, for an hour or two, the commute home is more tranquil. You left anxiety back at the entrance of your Yoga class and have discovered inner peace again.

How do you keep that feeling of tranquility? Would you like to order “Yoga to go” or package some “piece of mind?” If only it were that easy, but here are some tools that will help you re-discover that “Yogic high,” until your next Yoga class.

Listening to music that soothes your inner being is a start. It does not matter which style you choose. Only you can determine which form of music brings out the best in you.

Music has the ability to make negative distractions fade away. This will enable you to focus on your daily tasks. Be aware that some people may find the music you listen to irritating. A good set of headphones, or playing your music at a low volume, is a considerate gesture to others, but remember that playing music requires the right time and place.

There are many Yoga and meditation books available. There are also many useful CD’s and DVD’s, which can teach you new things about Yoga. It is advisable to take notes on the Yoga techniques demonstrated, before jumping into an at-home Yoga or meditation practice.

Before you ever learn to meditate, you must first learn to relax. Many Yoga students want to get straight to meditation, and are upset, with themselves, for relaxing. There is no need to make Yoga meditation into a goal, a problem, or a stressful situation.

Even if you fall asleep – who cares? No one is counting score. Self-study with Yoga books, CD’s, music, DVD’s, or Yoga teacher certification is at your own pace. Too many of us are in a rush without having a purpose. Enjoy the journey and smell the flowers as you go.

Another tool for happiness and focusing is a warm bath. This is simplistic, but it is a wonderful relaxation method before Yoga practice, meditation, or bedtime. Beside the fact that bathing makes us feel clean, we are focusing on the pleasure of bathing and living life in the moment.

Self-affirmations create a positive mind-set and build self-confidence. When you have self-confidence, positive thought becomes reality, and happiness is your companion.

Pranayama is a powerful method for expelling stress, anxiety, and daily pressure from your system. Sometimes, Pranayama can have an instant and positive effect on your mind and body. You can practice Pranayama anywhere, therefore, you are not limited by time or space.

Lastly, prayer is a powerful tool for happiness. It does not matter which religion you practice. Prayer has therapeutic value for everyone of any religion.

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Jerard
http://EzineArticles.com/?Hatha-Yoga-for-Beginners:-Tools-for-Happiness&id=383324

Beginning Yoga Guidelines

2007-03-03T17:58:00.000-06:00

By William Sonia

Among practitioners of Hinduism and Buddhism, yoga is practiced as a means on enlightenment; while in the West, yoga is now practiced as both an effective physical and spiritual routine.

However, contrary to popular belief, yoga is not considered a form of exercise because unlike the the speedy motion required in an workout, yoga involves very slow and steady movements. But still, regular practice of yoga provides great health benefits, as it tones the muscles as well as relieves stress, strengthens concentration, and reduces the aging process. There are prerequisites to yoga that you should follow to attain its maximum benefits. Please follow our guide to attain maximum benefits.

Practice yoga everyday – Make yoga a habit for at least 30 to 45 minutes.

Know your body limits – Try not to overextend your stretches. If you push too hard, you could hurt yourself in the process.

Consult your physician first – People with certain medical conditions should practice yoga minimally to avoid worsening of their ailments.

Yoga is best practiced during early mornings – If you have to do yoga in an afternoon or evening, remember to have an empty stomach. Consume solid foods 3 ½ hours before yoga, while liquids should be drank one hour before practicing.

Choose the right yoga space – Practice yoga on a spacious, clean, airy, and bright area, away from much disturbances. And don't forget your yoga mat or other comfortable mat that you can use during postures that require lying down.

Wear comfortable clothing – Make sure your garments are loose and clean. Undergarments are necessary.

Pregnant or menstruating women should avoid practicing yoga – This routine involves several body bends and pressures on the back, which could affect pregnancy and menstruation.

If you can, follow a vegetarian diet – Most practitioners of yoga are also vegetarians since yoga slows down the metabolism. If you have difficulty venturing to vegetarianism, try consuming lesser foods.

Begin by breathing deeply – The yoga poses (or asanas) usually start in breathing slowly and deeply as you concentrate your mind and make yourself centered. Remember that your body movements and breathing must be coordinated until such time that they are united. Your breathing also serves as your guide on when to start or stop the yoga position.

Move gracefully – In yoga, movement flows like air. Come into a pose slowly yet gracefully, hold that pose for several minutes, and come out of it with the same graceful and continuous movement.

Visit http://freediets.com for more information about yoga, diets and weight loss by Sonia William

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Sonia

Yoga Sites and Other Resources

2007-03-02T17:55:00.000-06:00

Other yoga fitness sites and resources:

Images by Free-StockPhotos.com - I am indebted to them for providing great free stock photos that enhance my site. Thanks!

Level10s Yoga Sites - Level10s is a human edited website directory of qualified sites.

A1dir

Body Mind Spirit DIRECTORY - Holistic Health
Find local resources for Holistic Health, Alternative Medicine, Yoga, Acupuncture, Day Spa, Massage, Metaphysics and Conscious Living. The oldest and largest on the net.

Herbs for Natural Health
provides reviews on natural products, herb remedies, weight loss, vitamins and sport nutrition products.

Ephedra/Ephedrine
Ephedra/Ephedrine is the strongest single ingredient available without a prescription. For preparation of expectorant for the treatment of bronchial asthma a type of Ephedra called Ephedrine HCl which is synthetically produced drug are used.

100% Whey Gold Standard
Whey Protein Gold Standard now provides an even higher protein percentage by weight.

Spirituality, Zen, Metaphysics at ZenMasterDan.com
Bringing together the diverse worlds of spirituality, alternative healing, meditation, yoga, Zen philosophy, metaphysics, alternative energy, and more.

Organic Beauty for You - MIESSENCE Products
MIESSENCE, the world's first extensive range of internationally certified organic skin, hair, body, cosmetic, oral and nutritional products.