Learn About Yoga

The BENEFITS OF YOGA are truly unlimited. Here are a few! * Increased Flexibility – yoga has positions used by various joints of the body including those joints that we are unaware of or haven’t been used for other forms of exercise. * Increasing Lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons – likewise, the well-researched yoga positions exercise the different tendons and ligaments of the body.

A body which may have been quite rigid starts experiencing a remarkable flexibility in even those parts which have not been consciously work upon. Through research using yoga positions, proof is evident. Unrelated simple yoga positions (asanas) act upon certain parts of the body in an interrelated manner. When done together, they work in harmony to create a situation where flexibility is attained relatively easily. * Massaging of ALL organs of the body – Yoga is perhaps the only form of activity which massages all the internal glands and organs of the body in a thorough manner that hardly get externally stimulated much during our entire lifetime. Yoga acts in a wholesome manner on the various body parts. This stimulation and massage of the organs in turn benefits us by keeping away disease and can provide warnings at the first possible instance of an onset of a disease or disorder.

* Decrease in Weight by performing simple asanas and meditation. Once the body is in a constant state of movement (however slight through your yoga practice), including your breathing techniques, metabolism is heightened. You will lose minimal weight without changing your habits, yet the benefits of increased flexibility and decreased stress, you will feel better as a whole.

* Complete Detoxification – By gently stretching muscles and joints as well as massaging the various organs, yoga ensures the optimum blood supply to various parts of the body. This helps in the flushing out of toxins providing nourishment for the entire body. This leads to benefits such as delayed ageing, energy and a remarkable zest for life. * Excellent Toning of the Muscles – muscles that have become weak or slothy are stimulated repeatedly to shed excess flab & increase tone.

For more benefits, Visit ———> http://www.YogaSpiritCenter.com Get the Best Yoga Supplies! On Sale Now! Visit ———> http://www.yogaspiritcenter.com/yogasupplies.html

Necesarry Meditation Supplies! Visit ———> http://www.yogaspiritcenter.com/meditation.html

About the Author

Carrie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Yoga Studies & Body-Centered Therapies. Her education began with ART, continued with Psychology, including Gestalt Therapy. Carrie has been instructing body sculpting for 2 decades. She is an initiate of Raja & Isha Yoga (Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev). She considers herself a “creatuitive” who pulls individuals inner intuitive resources to balance and nurture each soul & body. http://www.YogaSpiritCenter.com

Written By: Carrie Beisel

There are many types of yoga, but Bikram yoga tends to stand out from the rest. Even though the practice is largely the same, you’ll immediately notice the difference in the environment — the room in which Bikram yoga is performed is heated between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit!

Bikram yoga follows a consistent program, employing 26 various poses, each of which you practice twice during a session.

The poses flow as follows. You’ll start with Standing Postures, then progress to Backbends. Then you’ll practice Forward Bends and Twists. You will do the poses using the Kapalabhati Breath or the Breath Of Fire techniques, which are advanced techniques known for their energizing and cleansing qualities.

It’s Getting Hot in Here

The purpose of the heat in Bikram yoga is to help you ease in to a deeper, safer pose. The heat helps your body’s flexibility, making it easier to achieve better postures and making your overall practice more effective. Some of the poses you’ll do in Bikram yoga are quite challenging, and the heat will help you enter them more comfortably, and ideally get more out of them. Also, with the increased temperature, your body will sweat more readily, releasing more toxins from your pores. The heat also lowers your risk for injuries.

When you practice Bikram yoga, you aren’t simply stretching the muscles in your body. You’re also working and massaging the internal organs, which helps to strengthen and lubricate the body’s glands and improve the nervous system. With Bikram yoga, you’ll work and strengthen your muscles, joints and ligaments. All this work — especially with the help of Bikram’s specialized environment — helps to flush toxins out of your body and provides the kind of exercise your muscles crave.

Can You Stand the Heat? Get Into the Kitchen!

Aptly named, this yoga practice was developed by Yogi Bikram Choudhury, who first began his yoga practice at the age of three, then studied yoga for a long while with the renowned physical culturalist, Bishnu Ghosh. Together they developed this form as one of the ultimate ways to help the body through series of especially challenging stretches and poses. It goes without saying that the Bikram beginner requires a skilled instructor to get started, as these poses are more challenging than some. The high temperature is also key to the process. As a result, more than other forms, you’ll need to take instruction at a yoga school or some of the higher end fitness clubs.

You can easily learn more about Bikram yoga to any of the on-topic books available on the Web. You’ll find that Bikram yoga offers a wide range of challenging poses, and many people find it a wonderful way of widening their yoga experience. If you’re ready to branch out and try something new, be sure to try Bikram yoga.

About the author:

Stop by http://www.YogiSutras.com for the stories of twelve ordinary people who made the transition from student to certified instructor, plus helpful yoga poses and accessories.

Written By: Anika Molugu

Many studies have been conducted to determine which areas will benefit from an extended practice of yoga. Yoga practitioners are most likely to see improvements in the areas of physiology, psychology, and biochemistry. Furthermore, practitioners of yoga speak of a unification of the body, mind and spirit achieved through the practice of yoga exercises and breathing techniques. But, of course, that is a bit difficult to test scientifically.

Yoga Is An Ancient Way of Life

Yoga is not a recent development. It has been practiced for thousands of years, during which time people have greatly benefited from it. 1 of the fundamental beliefs shared by yogis is that the mind and the body are a unified system, which in a proper environment, can find harmony and self-healing.

Demonstrated Health Benefits

Many doctors consider yoga to have therapeutic results, and recommend it for several illnesses and conditions, mainly related to the nervous system.

From the physiological point of view, extended yoga practice can benefit: – pulse rate – respiratory problems – blood pressure dysfunctions – help stabilize the nervous system – gastrointestinal functions – endocrine function – the range of motion in joints – endurance – energy level – immunity to diseases – cardiovascular efficiency – improve eye-hand coordination – reaction time – dexterity – depth perception – sleep – etc.

Yoga’s psychological benefits include: – enhanced somatic and kinesthetic awareness – self-acceptance – self-actualization – social skills – well-being – concentration – memory – attention – mood – learning efficiency – and more

As for the biochemical benefits of yoga, tests have shown improvements in: – glucose – sodium – cholesterol – total white blood cell count – vitamin C – total serum protein – hemoglobin.

Deep Organ and Joint Stimulation

Various studies revealed that yoga exercises are extremely effective at increasing joint flexibility, and at lubricating and strengthening the joints, ligaments and tendons. Another interesting finding is that yoga is one of the very few forms of exercise capable of massaging all the internal organs and glands. This includes organs that are rarely stimulated, such as the prostate. The stimulation and massaging of the internal organs proves to be extremely beneficial for health.

Elimination of Toxins

These ancient and efficient yoga techniques also provide a thorough detoxification of the body. Stretching the muscles and performing a complete yoga workout acts as a massage, thereby ensuring the optimal blood supply to every organ. Consequently, toxins are eliminated from the body and certain undesired processes, such as aging, are delayed.

All of these remarkable health benefits are available from yoga practice. What are you waiting for? Let’s go find a yoga school!

About the Author

Ron King is a full-time researcher, writer, and web developer. Visit http://www.yoga4u-now.com to learn more about this fascinating and healthful hobby.

Copyright 2005 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact.

Written By: Ron King

Can you find good quality Yoga classes for free? Sometimes you can, and many introductory Yoga class packages are free, or priced, so low, that they might as well be. Some students of Yoga jump, from studio to studio, like grasshoppers. These Yoga students are in search of constant introductory packages and free Yoga classes. In response, some Yoga studios have stopped giving “bargain basement” or free Yoga class packages. Why do they stop giving bargains? It is for the sake of financial survival that a Yoga studio, ashram, wellness center, or fitness center must charge something, to stay in business. Otherwise, there will be no Yoga classes for any of us.

Having had the experience of teaching free Yoga classes, in parks, and holding down a full time job, at the same time. It was my observation that many of those students really didn’t see a value in Free Yoga. It was just something to do, if they were around the park.

When the park asked me to pay a “permit fee,” for teaching free Yoga, I asked my students to give me a little help. Some of them let me know walking is free and left.

The first day I charged for Yoga, the remaining students stayed, because they saw a value in learning Yoga. Their attendance was much more consistent. Some of my first “paying” Yoga students have become successful Yoga teachers in their own right, since then.

If you are serious about something, you are willing to pay for it. Would you like a free vacation spent in a conference room, with someone trying to sell you a “land deal” or would you just like some time to relax away from home? Personally, I am not interested in a free trip to learn about buying a swamp and am willing to pay for a nice vacation.

Nothing in life is really free, when you think about it. You or the local taxpayers pay for all the water that you drink. Most people have to travel to inhale fresh quality air, at the beach, or in the mountains. Even, walking requires some fuel in the form of food and drink that is paid for by somebody.

So, what is the moral of this story? Any activity you choose to do with your discretionary income is your own business, but without the support of the local community, “mom and pop” businesses will fail.

This is true for any type of local business, from the hardware store to the men’s clothing store. Most of these businesses were swallowed up by large franchises. Therefore, if you truly love Yoga, and want to learn more, support your local Yoga teacher, or your local studio.

Otherwise, you may find limited alternatives, and large fitness franchises, dictating what kind of Yoga you practice. Somehow, practicing Yoga at McDonalds isn’t very appealing.

About the Author

Paul Jerard, is a co-owner/director of Yoga teacher training at Aura Wellness Center. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors. 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. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Written By: Paul M. Jerard Jr.

Chair Yoga has become more popular in senior centers, but can also be found in nursing homes, physical rehabilitation units, adult day care centers, and some Yoga studios. However, the vast majority of us will attend a Chair Yoga class in a senior center.

You should consult your family physician and get the “go ahead,” before starting any exercise program. If possible, visit, or call the senior center, to find out about their policies and general guidelines. When it is your first class, it is a good idea to get into the front row, so you can clearly see and hear your Yoga teacher.

When you need extra advice, or have a particular health condition, you should talk to your teacher before, or after, the class. Your Yoga teacher will give advice and show modifications, throughout the class, but when you have questions that concern your safety and health, you should ask right away. This is not something that should be put on the “back burner.”

Within the senior center staff structure, there are volunteers, paid staff, and management. They are all extremely helpful. Seek help and you will find an abundance of it. If the business world ran like this, we would all be happy customers.

You don’t have to bring any special equipment to a Chair Yoga class. Most senior centers have more than enough chairs to accommodate everyone. Some Chair Yoga classes do use mats, as well as chairs, but this is more the exception than the rule. If the center uses mats, in part of the class, you will have to take your shoes off.

Most senior centers have hard floors with tile over cement. In this case, you should wear good sneakers, tennis shoes, or aerobic shoes. This will allow your shoes to grip the floor, to prevent potential slipping accidents. It also gives your feet and joints some cushion from the hard surface.

There is no need to buy special clothes. You should wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movement. Don’t wear anything tight around the waist. This will bother your stomach during some of the bending or twisting movements.

You should never push or strain into a Yoga posture. This can cause a variety of injuries from very slight to serious. Therefore, stay in the “comfort zone.” No one really knows how your body feels, except you.

If the class is large, it will be held in a large room, like a dining hall. Expect some distractions, with people coming, and going, from different activities, within the senior center. This is not ideal for meditation, but the physical rewards, and new friends you gain, will make up for it.

About the author:

Copyright 2005 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is the director of Yoga teacher training at Aura in RI. He’s a master instructor of martial arts and Yoga. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness. He wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students wanting to be a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Written By: Paul M. Jerard Jr.

Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word, which refers to breath and movement. For example each Yoga posture is matched by one breath. This is what you do when you perform Sun or Moon salutations, and these are also a form of Vinyasa Yoga. So, any sequences of postures that are synchronized, with your breath are classified as Vinyasa. There are many forms of Vinyasa and even the gentle ones are vigorous. The postures are not held in a fixed position for long and classes flow with rhythm, similar to music.

The energy used in flowing from one movement, to the next, continues throughout a typical Vinyasa Yoga class. This type of Yoga class will challenge aerobic endurance, enhance flexibility, and build overall strength.

There are many variations of Vinyasa Yoga classes. Some are related to or offshoots of Ashtanga Yoga, some are very gentle, and others are variations of extended Sun or Moon sequences. The variety of Vinyasa classes is further expanded when you consider different sequences, pace of the class, and the temperature of the room.

What about heated Yoga classes; is this hot Yoga? The temperature can vary depending upon the policy of the Yoga studio.

At our wellness center in North Providence, RI, the temperature can be near 80 Fahrenheit during winter months. During the summer months, we keep the temperature in the low 70’s. That is a far cry from a 105-degree hot Yoga or Bikram classes.

Most of the heat generated in a typical Vinyasa class is internal body heat. As a result of all this internal heat, you will most likely sweat. Therefore, bring a towel and a bottle of good quality water.

When used for personal health maintenance, Vinyasa Yoga is the ultimate cross training system, with low impact movement, aerobic, and muscle toning benefits. Your body will go through an incredible transformation, but it does require determination. This explains why Vinyasa Yoga attracts so many type A personalities.

Even if you don’t have a type A personality, it will rub off. As a “by product” of Vinyasa practice, your self-esteem will be improved. You will manage stress and develop a much more calm personality.

Now, where do you start? Find a local school with at least two levels of Vinyasa practice. If you have been on the couch for a while, it will be best to take some gentle Yoga classes first.

However, if you are very active, you may want to jump right in. You should have an honest talk with your Yoga teacher, before starting Vinyasa practice. It’s always best to be honest with yourself, about your level of fitness. Have fun, but do not push yourself, when you are in unfamiliar territory.

About the Author

Paul Jerard, is a co-owner/director of Yoga teacher training at Aura Wellness Center. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors. 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. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

Written By: Paul M. Jerard Jr.

While many consider Yoga to be a form a physical exercise, it is also known to be an exercise in spiritual development. Most would agree that the true goal of Yoga is to provide the individual with the means to achieve inner peace and balance. To achieve these lofty goals, students are encouraged to become familiar Yoga’s eight fold path. The eight fold path consists of eight disciplines; Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, and Samhadi.

The first fold, Yama, advises students to engage with the world from a moral standpoint, and is actually broken down into five distinct elements. The first element, Ahimsa, teaches the student to respect the world around him. The second, Satya, teaches that one should be honest with themselves and with others. The third, Asteya, teaches not to steal from another. The fourth, Bramacharya, advises against overindulgence of any form. The fifth, Aparigraha, teaches the student to live a simple life that is not distracted by material things.

Niyama, or the second fold, is considered the path of self restraint and consists of three distinct elements. Shaugh, the first element, teaches students to keep the body and mind clean and pure. Santosh, the second element, teaches the student to be happy and contented with the task at hand and to give an honest effort in all endeavors. Tapa, the third element, suggests that certain pleasures must be given up in order to attain one’s goals.

Asana is the third of the eight fold path, and it is concerned with physical training and building stamina. Asana is made up of 84 yoga poses, which are focused on developing strength, increasing health, and preparing for meditation. This stage is as much about physical conditioning, as it is mental or psychological discipline. Pranayama, the fourth fold, concerns controlled breathing. Proper breathing is important for mastering true relaxation and self discipline. The proper way to breathe while practicing yoga is to breathe in, and breathe out while pausing in between.

Pratyahara is the fifth of the eight folds, and is concerned with the individual’s control of sensory stimulation. The intent is to induce a sense of inner peace and quiet, by tuning out external stimulation. Dharana is the sixth fold, and it is primarily concerned with focusing one’s concentration on meditation. When a meditative state has been attained the student is then on to the seventh step, Dhyana. The final step, Samhadi, is attained when all previous steps have been completed and the individual experiences a true oneness with all things. The student is, as of this point, in tune with the universal flow. Namaste!

About the Author:

Brodi Saatpha has been practicing Yoga for many years, and one day hopes to attain true enlightenment. When she is not teaching others how to discover inner peace, she writes for http://www.yoga-insight.com

Written By: Brodi Saatpha

Though there are most likely at least half a dozen yoga studios and gyms that offer yoga classes in your neighborhood, finding the one class and the right teacher to suit your needs is not always easy. Start at the beginning with these steps and when you have completed all of them you are sure to have located the best yoga class and teacher combination for your schedule, location, interest, and temperament.

* What are your choices? The telephone book, the internet, community newspapers, ad boards at your local health food store or organic grocery store – all of these are great ways to find out what is available to you. Spread the word that you’re looking for a good class. Your dental hygienist may turn you onto a class you’ve never heard of or your librarian may moonlight as an instructor on the weekends. You never know until you start looking.

* When would you like to take your yoga class? Some people prefer to start their day very early with an energizing yoga class. Others like to wind down after work with a long, relaxing class and still others prefer to pop in a 20 minute yoga class every day during lunch or once a week on Saturday mornings. Determining when a class will best fit into your schedule will help you narrow down your choices.

* Which yoga classes are most convenient to you? After you have chosen the best time for you to take your class, consider where you will be just before then. Are you coming from home or work? Do you need something to fill the time while your youngest takes his gymnastics class and therefore need a class near there? Finding one that is close to where you are at the time that you want to take the class will help you maintain an effective, consistent practice.

* What type of yoga is taught at the schools that are close to where you want to be when you want to take your class? If you’re a beginner, you may not want to jump into a dynamic Ashtanga yoga class. If you’re more advanced, then a mild Kripalu yoga course may not be what you’re looking for to push your limits. Call the schools and centers that are left on your list and ask them to send you a list of classes they have available. From these, you will be able to see what is available during the time slots you have open.

* Try them out! Most yoga schools and centers allow you to take one class without signing up for 10 weeks worth of practice. Experiment and try out all the classes that interest you. If you find more than one that appeals to you, maybe you can switch back and forth. If none are what you’re looking for, then go back to your original list and expand your parameters or see if there are any yoga schools that you’ve overlooked. Soon you’ll find the perfect class and the perfect teacher for your yoga practice.

About the author:

Stephen Kreutzer is a freelance publisher based in Cupertino, California. He publishes articles and reports in various ezines and provides yoga tips on www.justyoga.info.

Written By: Stephen Kreutzer