Thursday, June 5, 2008

Yoga Can Help Purge Addictions

... course, this can also happen to adults, but it is more easily noticed in children, because they are monitored at home or in school.

Where do we start to help a society, which accepts addictions as somewhat normal? Institutions, which offer therapy, and counseling, can easily be found in any community. It is up to Yoga teachers to network with them. Yoga instruction offers anyone the opportunity to focus the mind.

When we are not in charge of our mind, it is easy to become addicted to something. We no longer see moderation as a reality. The mindset of an addict has lost any sense of moderation. The vice, or substance abuse, may also stem from a lack of ability to cope with a challenging situation. Life is full of challenges, but the death of a loved one, job loss, financial hardship, or divorce, can potentially cause anyon...more

Branches Or Basics of Yoga

... relate to the feminine principle of the cosmos, which they call shakti.

In the West, the tantric path of yoga has become associated almost entirely with sexual activity. It is because of this emphasis on only one aspect of this branch that it has become misinterpreted and misunderstood by so many. It is amusing to note that, although tantra has become associated exclusively with sexual ritual, most tantric schools actually recommend a celibate lifestyle. The Kama Sutra an ancient Hindu book of sexual techniques is the best known example of the lack of understanding of the true objectives of tantra yoga.

A discipline that leads to a reverential attitude to even the most every day celebrations of giving and receiving, of birth and death, of achievements and of failure, and of relationships and understanding, this is a path that will appeal to westerners who enjoy being actively involved in celebrations, church going, clubs and associations and other types of ceremonies.

Combining the Paths
You do not have to limit yourself to one expression, but can practice hatha yoga, taking care of your physical body, while simultaneously cultivating the lifestyle of a Bhakti Yogi, expressing compassion for everyone you meet. Whichever, avenue of yogic expression draws your interest; it will probably be the right yoga path for you.<...more

Yoga Teacher Guidelines for Assisting, Part 2

...or lose, if you have to pay an attorney to defend you. The cost of a legal defense is staggering.

Now lets get back to assisting. As a Yoga teacher, you should also get verbal permission each time you touch a student for a physical assist. So, it is always wise to ask before making an adjustment to an alignment.

Have you ever had an assist that didnt really help much? Assisting Yoga students, into proper alignment, is an art form, and some Yoga teachers are much better at it than others. However, after what you just read, you may also be more cautious wit...more

Exercising Your Stomach With Yoga

...on.

Paad-Pashchimottanasan

Ok, this next asana is not as complicated as the name sounds. However, you do need to be flexible to be able to perform this asana. Start by lying on your back and having your arms overhead and legs straight. Extend all your limbs. You are now straight from head to toe. Next place your palms flat pointing up to the ceiling, and put your hands together. Now, contract your stomach muscles so that you can sit up, while keeping your back straight and your heads still over your head. Then, bend forward and grab your toes, placing your head in between your arms. Your face will touch your knees. Hold this position for about two minutes and then slowly release.

As you can see, yoga can help you to achieve that lean stomach that you've always wanted. Practice these asanas and you'll be on your way to a fitter and slimmer tummy.

...more

Books On Yoga Others