...Yoga has been shrouded in mysticism for thousands of years. This is not a bad thing, as the goals of Yoga are far beyond the pictures you see on the covers of Yoga magazines today. So, what are the real goals of Yoga?

Should you go into a long speech about Atman (the soul or true self), and the divine cosmic being (Brahman) becoming one? To be honest, I did once see a Yoga teacher go into an "elevator speech" about the union of self and the "Absolute," but he successfully scared his prospective students away, before their first lesson.

In a nut shell, there are many goals of Yoga, but make it simple for people who walk in the door. Just say: "Tranquility" and they will understand. Tranquility is just one word, which thoroughly explains what a student should be able to expect from his or her first Yoga class, and the following classes...more

What to Look for When Hiring a Yoga Teacher (Part 2)

...any kind is wrong and very costly.

Continuing education is important in any field, and Yoga is no different. Yoga teachers should stay current in their knowledge of safety, modifications, anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. They should also learn how to keep Yoga classes interesting with fresh ideas. In turn, this keeps members coming back for more.

Therefore, the best selection is a Yoga teacher with a balance of all these factors. The one dimensional Yoga teacher is not an optimum fit for any organization. Within this current climate of liability suits, safety is the most important factor of all.

Lastly, ask each Yoga candidate do an audition, and do not hire him or her until you have been part of the Yoga class. Always remember, Seeing is believing and talk is cheap.

Copyright 2005 Paul Jerard / Aura Publicationsmore

Getting Kids Involved in Yoga

...Yoga isn't just for adults anymore. Yoga is now for kids as well and it has been shown that it has beneficial results for them too. For kids its quite fun for them to be able to twist their bodies into different poses but they also have fitness program in their lives that strengthens their bodies both physically and mentally.

Why would a child need yoga? With all the problems that you have with children from obesity to other problems, it's only natural. Having weight problems ultimately leads to health problems. It's a brilliant idea for you to have a physical activity for children that exercises and entertains them as well. Yoga will also help children reduce the stress and tension in their lives that is caused by different situations such as school, peer pressure, ...more

The Religious Impasse of hatha Yoga and "The New Age Movement"

...n it: then shalt thou direct thy way, and understand it.

As Yoga grew in mainstream popularity, hatha Yoga was easily embraced because most Yoga instructors worked on the mind and body connection only. There is very little mentioned within a typical Hatha Yoga class about Yogic philosophy.

In defense of Yogic philosophy, the Yamas and Niyamas (behavior restraints and ethical guidelines), are sensible guidelines, which can be found in many of the worlds religions and in ethical organizations. universal concepts such as, telling the truth, avoid stealing, and not harming others, are good ideas.

Copyright 2006 Paul Jerard / Aura Publicationsmore

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