Yoga: Shown To Help Cure Cancer Patients

By Shumam Fasi

A cancer specialist of San Antonio, Texas said during a seminar in Oklahoma City that a cure for cancer is possible by the application of Yoga.

Col. Hansa Raval, M.D, pathologist with the United States said that physicians declined to recognize the cure. She further said that till she began researching the application of the non conventional modes of treatment, her work in cytotechnology which is a diagnostic branch of medicine whose objective is to pinpoint the early stages of cancer was ineffectual. She claimed to have observed crippling arthritis, headache, and even cancer being healed by Raja yoga and meditation.

Her views were rejected by others belonging to the medical profession as being silly, in spite of the proof given by her, accumulated during her two years of study at the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University in India.

Raval’s hypothesis that 98 percent of all cancer is psychosomatic is the reason for yoga’s success as a mode of treatment. She pointed out that this was not chanting or reciting mantras. Neither are scriptures its basis. It is not a cult or a biofeedback. Yoga goes much deeper. It is an exhaustive understanding of what the soul is and a full proof method of meditation.

According to Raval the medical schools have a strong disposition towards the conventional modes such as radiation, chemotherapy, and treatment using machines, and consequently look down upon the non conventional modes of treatment. The human being as merely being a body is taught to students in medical schools .But the body can be cured by the power of the mind. The combination of mind, body and soul is what is literally meant by the term psychosomatic.

The body suffers while the soul generates the disease. It is possible to heal the disease only through the psyche if it the psyche which has caused it. This is treating the root cause of the problem and is a very simple formula. Curing the disease through the treatment of the soul is revealed in all studies relating to parapsychology.

Peace and purity for health happiness is taught at the World Spiritual University which has branches in 30 countries. It has its office at the U.N. building in New York and has acquired the status of a nongovernmental member of the U.N.

Through Raja yoga students are taught to search their soul, enquire as to their origin and the cause of their body being invaded by cancer. The role of religion, stress, family and lifestyle to the cause of cancer is also learnt.

Shumam Fasi is involved with an online yoga project that informs and educates the yoga enthusiast through well-written articles. Discover the timeless wisdom of Yoga meditation, breathing, & positions, as well as reviews on Yoga videos, mats, accessories, & much more...

http://www.yoga-advice.org/

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Attleboro Yoga Classes - December / January Schedule
--------------------------------------------
Dear Yoga Enthusiasts,

Below is our December / January - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

We will be closed December 25, 2006 to January 1, 2007, for Christmas and the New Year.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092
Web: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
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Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------

Yoga in the News

Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA, will be closed for the remainder of this week in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. We wish you, and yours, the very best.

Om Shanti,

Paul, Marie, Paul III, Jackie, and Paul Hoover


Yoga and Chocolate - Postscript
By Michael
Dave said that if yoga were an Olympic sport, you would be judged by the quality of your breath, not on the difficulty of the pose or the fluidity of your movements.

Children get clued-up on healthy living
This Is Basingstoke - Basingstoke, UK
The youngsters also took part in a high-energy circuit followed by yoga, which headteacher Jan Cushing said went down very well with the children.

Eating Wisely And Weight Loss
Best Syndication - Pinon Hills, CA, USA
Please bear in mind that I am not a dietician, or a physician, and my opinions are those of a Yoga teacher and life-long student of Ayurveda.

Class Is In Session Three New Ways to Burn Up Those Holiday
New York Times - United States
Buff Yoga, which incorporates candy-color dumbbells into classic yoga poses, was designed to ease two camps of exercisers out of their comfort zones.

Yoga with a baby on board
Gainesville Sun - Gainesville, FL, USA
Vajda, a local nurse, midwife and yoga instructor, is leading a group of new mothers through a free Mom and Baby Yoga class.

Yoga helped Aniston after Pitt split
Hindustan Times - India
Former Friends actress Jennifer Aniston says yoga helped her heal with her split from Brad Pitt.

Dogs Doing Yoga? Unusual Holiday Gifts for Dog Lovers
PR.com (press release) - Levittown, NY, USA
From dogs doing yoga, to dogs getting acupuncture, the art is off-beat, playful and heartwarming, and it is available printed on a wide variety of products.

Yoga studio offers relaxation amid the holiday hustle, bustle
PensacolaNewsJournal.com - FL
Breathe Yoga Studio is enrolling people for prenatal yoga, "Baby and Me," and a children's program.

Relieve your nerves, soothe your mind with yoga
Jakarta Post - Jakarta,Indonesia
BKS Iyengar, the father of modern yoga in America and a master of yoga's therapeutic applications says that certain yoga poses quiet your sympathetic nervous system.

Introduction to Hot Bikram Yoga and Review of Bellevue Hot Bikram Yoga
By Amit D. Chaudhary
Hot Yoga or Bikram yoga is a set of 26 yoga asanas.

Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
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Yoga Meditation for World Peace

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Does world peace seem like a fantasy? What is the number one obstruction to world peace? How can we overcome such a powerful obstruction, with Yoga? Does Yoga meditation give us the answer?

The ego is the largest obstruction to world peace. One person’s ego can affect the collective consciousness of an entire country and the world. Consider history’s most famous conquerors and tyrants; their personal ambitions became an excuse to justify sacrifice, cruelty, and warfare.

What starts out as a personal matter can become a social dilemma, if one person has the influence, and an ego, which is out of control. Each of us has an ego, but we often ask others to put their egos aside before we do. We are right and they are wrong. We imply that they should listen to our side of the debate first.

How is it possible to restrain the ego? How can Yoga help control the Ego?

Yoga is designed to take care of the health of a single person. In many ways, Yoga travels to the core of the human mind, body, and spirit. One method allows an individual’s mind to be isolated through Yoga meditation practice. Yoga meditation allows the mind to withdraw from the “pains and aches of society.”

What do I mean by the pains and aches of society? Unfortunately, no society is perfect. Speak to any social worker about poverty and injustice. Each social worker receives a “bird’s eye” view of social injustice. Over the years, I have taught many social workers in my Yoga classes.
It is apparent that they came to Yoga class as a sanctuary.Why would social workers need a Yoga class for sanctuary?

Social workers feel empathy, without ego, and they want to make a positive difference in modern society. They clearly see social illness, and inadequacy, on a daily basis.

How else could Yoga meditation overcome the ego? The mind withdraws from society, distractions, and multi-tasking, which forces the mind to look at itself. Yoga meditation is a systematic healing process for the individual and a remedy for society’s short comings.

In a recent conversation with a Yoga teacher, he mentioned how Yoga meditation is considered, by the public, to be “time spent doing nothing.” He completely understood the deeper value and benefits of meditation, but was concerned about how to reach his Yoga students, with overactive minds. After all, most of them would rather perform asanas than spend time meditating in a Yoga class.

The answer is: We will have to educate them, wait for them to age, or wait for the time, when they can appreciate the meditative aspects of Yoga. If Yoga students were trained to meditate as children, they would appreciate the many benefits of Yoga meditation at this moment.

However, we cannot force a person to instantly meditate and “see the light.”

In order for meditation to take place, the mind must be willing to look at itself. When the collective consciousness of a society meditates on a regular basis, it will be reflected by peaceful behavior.

Yoga Meditation is a wonderful resource for mankind because it can bring the mind to a state of peace with itself. A global society, which has an addiction to multi-tasking, needs time to “unplug” itself, and Yoga meditation offers realistic solutions.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Side Note: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA, will be closed for the remainder of this week in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

We wish you and yours the very best.


Om Shanti,

Paul, Marie, Paul III, Jackie, and Paul Hoover

Balance Your Energy With Yoga

By Jennifer Jordan

From energy drinks to energy bars, energy is something sought by people each day. Everything is made up of energy. Energy is pulsation - a pulsation that moves in a wave-like rhythm flowing up and flowing down. We may think we need to grab for energy outside of us in order to have more energy inside to function. What we really need is to learn how to balance the energy that is pulsing within us. While it may seem easy and convenient to purchase an energy product on the way to work, consuming it as you sit in traffic, quick energy fixes only lead to crashes later on. Instead, balance your energy with yoga a natural way to keep you invigorated throughout your day.

Practicing yoga is a great way to energize your day. Yoga helps release tension and clear blockages, allowing energy to flow freely, creating an overall sense of vitality and well-being. Yoga poses don't create energy, they release energy and they also keep us from expending energy in activities that don't do anything for us. Often we have so much tension stored in our bodies that we are forced to use our energy for support. If we can release that tension, we will be free to use this energy for whatever we really want to do.

Yoga helps you Manage Stress

Stress is a natural part of life’s pulsation. Stress can be motivating or disabling. Poor stress management drains energy out of the body, leaving you tired and unmotivated. Yoga helps you manage the accumulation of stress by helping you consciously release it. The mindfulness aspect of yoga trains the mind to focus on body sensations, to bring the body-mind back into synch. Naturally stress begins to rapidly diminish. Restoration and rejuvenation arise from the body's ability to self-regulate as the mind-body duality diminishes.

Yoga Tones Muscles

Life is movement and movement is life - how we move can bring balance or imbalance to our muscle tone. The practice of connecting to your breath stimulates the body’s natural intelligence to move into alignment when performing yoga poses. Therefore, the integration in the body develops balanced muscle tone and increased energy.A person’s energy level is dictated by their metabolic rate, the rate at which their body is able to convert substances into energy. The expedience of this rate is based on a person’s metabolism, a process that is contingent on their muscle mass; a person with more muscle tone will have a vastly higher metabolism than someone who has a small amount of muscle mass. In other words, a person with good muscle tone will have much more energy that someone whose muscular tone is minimal.

Yoga Stimulates Blood Flow

Yoga stimulates a person’s body into an open highway, unclogging avenues through which blood, oxygen, and nutrients - all elements of energy - can travel. The way yoga does this is by cultivating balanced action when performing yoga poses... Balanced action is when we engage enough muscular energy to create stability and strength in a pose balanced with organic energy, extension through the bones, to create freedom in the joints. The breath always leads the way- it is what fuels the vehicle of the body into contraction and expansion of the body’s natural pulsation.

Balanced action helps your body to become flexible. Because a person may have a restriction that they are unaware of, gaining flexibility helps energy get to its destination with ease. Breathing, along these lines, helps oxygenate the blood, helping drive the life force of energy to muscles, organs, and any part of the body that is need of some reserves.

Yoga is Vitality

Yoga provides a direct route for tapping into your true self: a self that, by nature, is fluid and vital, not rigid and dull. All yoga postures are expressions of your true self. When the postures are practiced with mindfulness and meaning they naturally shift you out of a habitual negative rut or help you celebrate the joy that you brought to the mat. Yoga brings self awareness to our habitual patterns that either support the expression of one’s true heart or not. From this place of clarity we can then make life-affirming choices.

People can find energy in many things - protein shakes, energy powders, even energy pills - but yoga remains one of the most natural and effective ways to balance the energy in your body, giving you the ability to make the most of each and every day.

About us: TWISTED is a medical yoga studio at the Center for Osteopathic Medicine in Boulder, Colorado. Twisted integrates osteopathic medicine, Hatha yoga and mindfulness practices to teach optimal balance between physical, mental, and emotional health.

It aims to educate and help people to live a healthy life from the inside out. Rehabilitation programs offer a comprehensive treatment regime for the whole being, empowering each person one breath at a time to stimulate the body’s natural healing potential.

Jennifer Jordan is senior editor of http://www.yogatwisted.com/ Specializing in articles that not only teach yoga techniques, but also teach techniques on fulfillment and enrichment, she aims to educate students proudly enrolled in the school of life.

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Attleboro Yoga Classes - November Schedule
--------------------------------------------
Dear Yoga Enthusiasts,

Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, will be closed November 22 - 25 in observance of Thanksgiving.

The best to you and your families.

Below is our November / December - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.
Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703
Phone: 508-222-0092
Web: http://www.riyoga.com

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Yoga Meditation 101: Breath Awareness and Posture

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

What do you think of when you hear about Yoga meditation? Do you picture a Yoga teacher, Guru, mystic, monk, or priest, guiding a group through meditation? Are you a bit confused about the whole process of Yoga meditation? Let’s look at one of the many types of Yoga meditation and the benefits of daily practice.

There are many types of Yoga meditation, but all of them are similar to branches on a tree, leading to the same trunk. When you attend a Yoga class, you may be guided by your Yoga teacher, through meditation, in a variety of ways, but you will usually develop a favorite method of Yoga meditation.

Most likely, your favorite method will be the form of Yoga meditation, which brings you the most success. You cannot force yourself to meditate. Usually, a state of Yoga meditation will occur through focused observance and non-effort.

Breath awareness meditation is the first method, which I teach to beginning meditation students, and to students of Yoga. A beginner Yoga student can easily grasp the concepts of breath awareness and realize the deeper benefits of meditation.

Drawing the spine, into the straightest line possible, is the first goal, because poor spinal alignment is counter productive to meditation, and is not helpful for proper breathing. Many beginning Yoga students may have difficulty sitting straight, without a back rest. Some cultures have no difficulty sitting on the floor, while others sit in chairs, or on furniture, which brings them off the floor; and these Yoga students are used to back support.

If a Yoga student is sitting on the floor, in an uncomfortable position, he or she may not be able to concentrate on anything more than discomfort. Therefore, consider using chairs as a Yoga meditation prop. If you use a chair with a straight back, and lumbar support, this is ideal for seated Yoga meditation.

There is also another Yoga meditation posture where chairs become a handy Yoga prop. Place a chair at the head of your Yoga mat. Lay down on your Yoga mat, with your feet facing the chair. Then place your lower legs on the seat of the chair. You will want to adjust your body, so that the lower legs are parallel to the floor, the upper legs are perpendicular to the floor, and the back is flat.

Now that you have settled in, take some time to observe your breath, without trying to change, force, or lengthen your breathing cycle. Most Yoga students will try to control their breath, but the secret of Yogic breath awareness meditation is non-effort and observance.

Take the time to observe your breath, without effort or judgment; this will allow you to filter out conscious thoughts about your breath, noises, or your next task. Once you have put the distractions of life aside, you will notice that the cycle of your breath expands.

This is just the beginning of the many rewards you can reap from Yoga meditation. The Yoga meditation methods you learn from your local Yoga studio will reduce stress, calm your mind, and possibly lower your blood pressure. A life with less anxiety, and worry, is well worth the time it takes to practice Yoga meditation.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com/
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
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Hatha Yoga for Beginners: Discover Peace of Mind

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga can heal a stressed mind by helping you rid yourself of negative feelings and thoughts. The mental aspect of Yoga is a form of self-help, which creates a positive state of mind through tranquility. Yoga will empower you to take control of your life with a calm mind - but let’s take a reality check first.

Each of the following fours subjects we discuss can cause us damage to our mental and physical state of health. Let’s determine what we can do and if they are real. In each case, Yoga can give you inner strength to deal with these troubles.

Fear can be real, but most often is self-created because it is fear of what we do not know or understand. Take a close look at what your fear is. Is it something you can take action to prevent? Can you develop a “damage control” plan?

This type of thinking is not Yoga meditation. It is self-analysis that gives you the power to determine real from imaginary. In Jnana Yoga, you learn through reading, facing the truth, and putting the principles into action.

One last point about fear: If it is real, you have to take action, and this may be a major move in life; however, if you or your family’s survival is at stake, worrying will not solve fear. You have no choice, other than taking positive action.

Self-pity can cause us pain, sorrow, and grief. We feel self-pity from loss, but we must pick ourselves up and move on. Yoga practice, Yoga classes, and Yoga meditation can help us bear this pain, but positive habits, and time, heal us, as well.

Yogic philosophy teaches us to do something for someone who is less fortunate. Even when our own situation looks dismal, it will not be hard to find a person who needs our help. When you help others, this is a form of Karma Yoga, and you will feel better about yourself.

Insecurity is a result of lack of faith. Yoga can help you find faith again. Everyone who practices Yoga long enough understands the Yogic aspect of spiritual health. You do not have to be any particular religion to find your spiritual side. Yoga is universal, non-threatening, and does not discriminate.

Past failures drain us of life energy, if we do not put them behind us and learn from them. Yoga teaches us to live in this moment. The present determines the future, and the past is history. You can learn from history, but you cannot change it.

Sometimes, past failures create a state of mind, where we cannot forgive ourselves or others for mistakes and wrong doings. Who do we punish by withholding forgiveness? We create a “prison” for ourselves, when we do not forgive. Yoga teaches us self-empowerment, not self-imprisonment.

Lastly, if you want peace of mind, you must take action, find solutions, or visit your local Yoga class. Peace of mind is a choice for most of us. If you have the power to visit a Yoga class, you have the power to gain peace of mind.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Yoga - More than the "Aerobics of India"

By Jeanette Pollock

Originating in India over 5000 years ago, yoga is the Sanskrit word for "union". It is a scientific technique for spiritual development. Yoga is a practical aid, a living experience -- not a not a set, rigid thing or religion. It's no longer only for the flower children of the '60s, yoga is now mainstream.

Yoga is much more than sitting in a lotus position and chanting in unison. Yoga is not aerobics, not gymnastic: unlike stretching or fitness, yoga is more than just physical postures. Many people have the misconception that yoga is not really a workout.

Yoga is absolutely advantageous for you, but it won't substitute i.e. weight training. In practice, yoga is an applied science of the mind and body. Yoga is considered by many to be the best health maintenance system in the world.

Now you will wonder if learning yoga is really advantageous: some practitioners state that yoga is the meeting of the mind with the divine. Yoga is a form of body conditioning that places emphasis on strengthening the body and the mind while stimulating the soul. It's a wonderful method for exercising the body and mind. Yoga is the oldest known holistic system of personal development.

Yoga is a wonderful tool for becoming better acquainted with your body, says Jyothi Larson, author of Yoga Mom, Buddha Baby (Bantam, 2002). For example, yoga is one of the best activities you can do when you're pregnant: it's gentle to the body while helping you build endurance and flexibility.

What is the difference between meditation and yoga? Meditation is one of the five principles of yoga. For the hindu god Shiva, meditation is a favorite way to pass the time.

How many times a week should I practice yoga? Practice at least 15 minutes a day, for 5 days a week. Discover for yourself why yoga is thought of as a total body healing system.

Can I practice yoga with an injury or medical condition? Anyone can practice yoga, regardless of age, ability or level of health!

How is pilates connected to yoga? The concept of the pilates exercise systems has really taken off in the last few years. Pilates and yoga movements are uniquely combined to create a powerful, yet relaxing workout promoting strength, body awareness, flexibility, and focus. Pilates is followed by restorative yoga, an inwardly directed class meant to restore, revive, and revitalize. People who do pilates regularly feel they have better posture and they are less prone to injury.

Yoga is definitely more than just the "aerobics of India". For many Hindus, yoga is a way of life. Most everyone in India knows that yoga is beneficial for the health in many different ways. Yoga is extremely powerful stuff. If yoga is the key to a longer life then I'm all for it!
Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of justyogabasics.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more about yoga.

Become a Yoga Teacher

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Attleboro Yoga Classes - November Schedule
--------------------------------------------

Dear Yoga Enthusiasts,

Below is our November / December - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:
These Yoga class changes will take effect on Monday, November 6, 2006.

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

Aura Wellness Center21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd FloorAttleboro, MA 02703Phone: 508-222-0092

Where exactly is that? We are located in downtown Attleboro on the corner of Park Street and Railroad Avenue. 21 Park Street is the Park Place Building.

Webster Bank is across Railroad Avenue and Sovereign Bank is across Park Street from us.
Grand Opening Specials:

6 Classes for $57

Or

10 Classes for $87

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Become a Yoga Instructor

Our training is up to Yoga Alliance standards. Graduates will be eligible to apply for the Yoga Alliance RYT credential.

The January 2007 Yoga teacher training session is just three months away. Make your reservations now and save, with an "early bird" discount.

Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates. Aura has relocated to downtown Attleboro, MA.

Yoga classes are ongoing. If you are interested in Gentle Restorative Yoga or Vigorous Vinyasa Yoga, we have space available for you.

Telephone: 508-222-0092 to reserve your space or for Yoga class information.

You can also contact Marie at: aurayoga2@aol.com

We have Yoga, Pilates, Personal Fitness Training, and many more programs for mind / body health.

Private Yoga training is available.

To see the Aura Wellness Center October schedule, in Attleboro, visit:
http://www.riyoga.com/

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Practice Hatha Yoga for Happiness

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Does life feel like a carnival ride? How do we deal with life’s challenges? What do you consider happiness to be? Can Hatha Yoga really open the “Gateway to Happiness?” Let’s look at solutions to happiness, which you can find in your Hatha Yoga practice.

Life is often compared to a carnival ride. The “ups and downs” of life cause us pleasure and pain. To a degree, we all need a certain amount of stress, but Hatha practice can help you gauge the amount of stress you take.

Picture stress like water: You need some water to live, but too much water can become a flood. Hatha Yoga controls stress, like a dam controls water. We want a steady flow, but not too much.

How do we deal with life’s challenges? Many people want to avoid challenges and stress, but in the proper “dosage,” challenges are what keep us going. Start or finish your day with Yoga, and you will face life’s daily challenges with positive energy in your heart.

What do you consider happiness to be? Is it money, possessions, power, fame, retirement, or something else? All of these things tax our spirit. The more we have, the more we want, the more we are bored, and the more there is to worry about.

Happiness cannot be bought. Look at the lives of the “rich and famous,” if you need proof. Happiness is a choice, and Yoga can help anyone find the path of happiness.

Can Yoga really open the gateway to happiness? Absolutely! All forms of Yogic methodology teach meditation and pranayama. In Hatha Yoga, these concepts sometimes become secondary to postures (Asanas). Yet, all three of these concepts combined will help you feel more cheerful - even during disappointing times.

Yoga can be practiced all day long. When you display acts of kindness, you will feel gratified in knowing you helped someone. Loving kindness is a universal Yogic concept. This is just one of many methods of “Yoga off the mat.”

You can practice loving kindness by giving to others. Let someone in front of you, while you are in traffic, or help someone in need. If you have no money, loving kindness does not have to be material. Karma Yoga is selfless service; all you have to do is help or listen to someone who needs you.

Lastly, every time you give, help, or listen, it “comes back.” This should not be your primary motivation for helping others, but giving is always rewarded in one way or another. This is just one example of the law of cause and effect, which we also know as “Karma.”

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Want to learn more about how to become a certified hatha yoga instructor or practicing yoga as a form of therapy? Please feel free to use the resources on the right side of this page for research.

If you are a teacher, yoga school owner, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul

Yoga for Beginners: The Second Step of Yoga Practice

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

What is more important - the Yoga teacher or the style of Yoga being taught? Firstly, you should research the nine major styles of Yoga: Bhakti, Hatha, Jnana, Karma, Kundalini, Mantra, Raja, Tantra, and Yantra Yoga. Then, make a choice as to which path of Yoga you would like to pursue.

Seek out a Yoga teacher or Guru, in your preferred style, for guidance. If this is not possible, due to distance or time, you should do a lot more Yoga reading. When visiting a bookstore or library, browse through the Yoga books for the one that “draws you in.”

If you choose to study Hatha Yoga, or a Hatha Yoga sub-style, the first book I would personally recommend is, “The Heart of Yoga, Developing a Personal Practice,” by T.K.V. Desikachar. T.K.V. Desikachar trained many of today's modern Yoga masters, and this one book will help anyone develop their own routine.

Notice that I have not recommended a DVD. Why is that? Although Yoga DVD’s are very informative, some people get hurt practicing Hatha Yoga, while watching a DVD at the same time. It is not uncommon to hear that a beginning Yoga student was injured at home while practicing Yoga with a DVD.

The truth is - DVD’s are great learning tools for Yoga teachers, Yoga teacher interns, and Yoga teacher training sessions. Until a “holographic Yoga teacher” is developed to guide and assist you, in your own home, reading is much safer.

If you have been reading and practicing for six months, a beginner or gentle Yoga DVD should be fine, but please watch it, at least once, before attempting to do any Yoga technique. There is nothing wrong with watching a Yoga DVD a few times and taking notes before attempting any Yoga technique.

When you read, envision, and understand a Yoga technique, it will be much safer on your first attempt. Many of us are impatient and want to learn everything at once. In Yoga, this will never happen. In fact, one life is just not enough time to learn everything there is to know about Yoga.

Let’s look at options for learning Yoga from a Yoga teacher in your area. How do you choose a local Yoga teacher that is right for you? If you have done your research, you know what style of Yoga that you are interested in; but what should you be looking for in a Yoga teacher?

A Yoga teacher should be ethical, compassionate, understanding, and have time for your questions. Your religious ideas should not be challenged in a Yoga class. You should not be required to make drastic lifestyle changes.

However, as you continue to study Yoga, you will naturally improve your health.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga Classes - November Schedule

Dear Yoga Enthusiasts,

Below is our November / December - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

These Yoga class changes will take effect on Monday, November 6, 2006.
Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Vinyasa Yoga
Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Saturday: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Yoga / Pilates Body Sculpting

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703

Phone: 508-222-0092

Where exactly is that? We are located in downtown Attleboro on the corner of Park Street and Railroad Avenue. 21 Park Street is the Park Place Building.

Webster Bank is across Railroad Avenue and Sovereign Bank is across Park Street from us.

Grand Opening Specials:
6 Classes for $57
Or
10 Classes for $87

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Become a Yoga Instructor

Our training is up to Yoga Alliance standards. Graduates will be eligible to apply for the Yoga Alliance RYT credential.

The January 2007 Yoga teacher training session is just three months away. Make your reservations now and save, with an "early bird" discount.

Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates. Aura has relocated to downtown Attleboro, MA.

Yoga classes are ongoing. If you are interested in Gentle Restorative Yoga or Vigorous Vinyasa Yoga, we have space available for you.

Telephone: 508-222-0092 to reserve your space or for Yoga class information.

You can also contact Marie at: aurayoga2@aol.com

We have Yoga, Pilates, Personal Fitness Training, and many more programs for mind / body health.

Private Yoga training is available.

To see the Aura Wellness Center October schedule, in Attleboro, visit:
http://www.riyoga.com/

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com/
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Vinyasa Yoga Class - Closed for Halloween Night

Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro, MA - Closed for Halloween Night


Yoga Helps A Great Deal In Lowering Cholesterol

By Javier Fuller

Are you worried for having some extra cholesterol in your blood? Well, many people are fighting hard battle against the increased cholesterol levels. For, they are much vulnerable to heart diseases much like the heart patients. But I have got a very easy and natural remedy to control your high cholesterol.

Some time back, I had a cholesterol level above the normal range and I used this alternative technique to reduce my extra cholesterols. Well, the technique being discussed here is none other the age old technique of keeping fit. That is YOGA.

Yes, Yoga helped me a great deal in reducing my high cholesterol levels. Now I am perfectly fit and rocking. So, if you have also found high cholesterol in your blood don't get stressed as stress will only harm you further. The tensed brain and heart needs more blood so the heartbeat and blood circulation will increase and will create more problems to your arteries.

Yoga has solved the problem of cholesterol for many people. It has been acclaimed by all for its simple nature and mode of exercises, which any one can do quite easily.

Yoga is a kind of exercise based on the unification of body, mind and spirit. There are meditations associated with it. There are different kinds of exercises under the yoga program that are used for various problems in your body. Some of them are to keep your mind and body in sound health.

Yoga for controlling cholesterol reduces the fat content in your blood and ensures you a healthy heart, brain and blood circulation. Don't misguide yourself with certain ideas that the LDL cholesterol is very hard to get rid of. Th main factor with cholesterol is that the fats in your body don't get burned up due to lack of physical activity or improper life style.

The cholesterol flows in the blood and an increase in its amount make the cholesterol deposit on the walls of the blood vessels. The result is clogging of the blood arteries.

Join yoga classes today for the unwanted fats in your blood. If you postpone your admission to the yoga classes, the fats may slowly go on increasing and may create some serious problems for you in the future. The yoga instructor will teach you all those exercises that burn the fat faster, increase your blood circulation and make your heart healthy.

Yoga can control cholesterol by asanas (mode of exercise) meant for the cholesterol. There are millions of people performing yoga for different ailments. Especially, in the quest of a perfect body. They are highly satisfied and I am sure you too will find the similar benefits.

Discover the magnificence of the yoga that has so many things to impart. They will surely help you get rid of the cholesterol and you will be highly satisfied when after two months you go to check the level and find them impressively low.

To get more information on cholesterol, cholestrol and reduce cholesterol visit http://www.urcholesterol.com/

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Aura Wellness Center will be closed on Halloween Night.

The January 2007 Yoga teacher training session is just three months away. Make your reservations now and save, with an "early bird" discount.

Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates. Aura has relocated to downtown Attleboro, MA.

Yoga classes are ongoing. If you are interested in Gentle Restorative Yoga or Vigorous Vinyasa Yoga we have space available for you.

Telephone: 508-222-0092 to reserve your space or for Yoga class information.
You can also contact Marie at: aurayoga2@aol.com

We have Yoga, Pilates, Personal Fitness Training, and many more programs for mind / body health.

Private Yoga training is available.

To see the Aura Wellness Center October schedule in Attleboro, visit:
http://www.riyoga.com/

How to Find the Right Yoga Teacher?

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

I am often asked by beginners about how to evaluate a Yoga Teacher?

The following is the “CALM check list.” These factors are basic criteria that your Yoga Instructor should meet before you continue on to a second Yoga class.

CALM gets it name from four main factors: Communication, Assist, Listen, and Modification. For the right Yoga teacher, you should be answering with a “yes” to all questions.

• Communication: Does your Yoga teacher talk to you, and other students, in a manner of mutual respect? Can you ask a question during class time?

Does your teacher show compassion for you and other students? Does your Yoga teacher take the time to lead you through a guided meditation or relaxation? Meditation and relaxation are major aspects of Yoga practice.

There are Yoga teachers who just want to get "their workout" done. Beware of Yoga teachers, who are so important, they don’t have time for you.

Some students love this air of superiority and, unfortunately, some people love abuse. If you want to learn Yoga, you need an open line of communication with your Yoga teacher.

• Assist: Does your teacher care about your form? Will your teacher give you a verbal or physical assist during your Yoga class? Are props encouraged in your Yoga classes?

Some students never have major problems with alignment and some do, but if your teacher doesn’t give verbal cues, what does that tell you?

• Listen: Does your Yoga teacher take the time to listen to your feedback? Is your teacher "in the moment" with the class?

Once in a while, there is a Yoga instructor who runs, “The-it’s-all-about-me-show.” You are not going to learn anything from this type of teaching. Beginners will be put at risk, trying to keep up with a seasoned Yoga teacher who doesn’t explain anything.

• Modification: Does your Yoga teacher allow modifications and props? If your teacher discourages props, you are in the wrong place.

Some students will need props for life depending upon their range of motion. Just because a teacher can do a posture without props, doesn’t mean every student can.

Summary: Stay away from abusive Yoga teachers, and if you are attracted to abuse, there is always professional help. Some students crave “the stern, but loving parent” types. They will push you harder, but how much pushing do you really need?

Respect is a two way street, and you deserve as much respect as your Yoga teacher does. Let common sense be your guide. You should feel good after a Yoga class, and you might even feel muscle soreness days after a vigorous class.

Make sure your Yoga teacher meets the above criteria before making a commitment.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Attleboro Yoga News

Pain Management: Yoga for Scoliosis

The January 2007 Aura Yoga teacher training session at our Attleboro Wellness Center is just three months away.

Make your reservations now and save, with an "early bird" discount.

Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates. Aura has relocated to downtown Attleboro, MA.

Yoga classes are ongoing. If you are interested in Gentle Restorative Yoga or Vigorous Vinyasa Yoga we have space available for you.

Telephone: 508-222-0092 to reserve your space or for Yoga class information.

You can also contact Marie at: aurayoga2@aol.com

We have Yoga, Pilates, Personal Fitness Training, and many more programs for mind / body health.

Private Yoga training is available.

To see the Aura Wellness Center October schedule in Attleboro, visit:
http://www.riyoga.com/

10 Tips To Get The Most Out Of PreNatal Yoga

By Rebecca Prescott

Yoga really helps improve the experience of pregnancy, by helping the body cope with the strain of hormonal changes and weight increases. Many expectant mothers report that yoga helps reduce the common aches and discomforts associated with pregnancy. Only two 30 minute sessions of practice a week are needed.

1. Do yoga in the water. Water helps support the body during the poses. Joints and muscles move more freely as well. Aqua yoga is excellent for toning the body, and increasing the flexibility of the pelvic muscles. This is a good preparation for birthing.

2. Use extra props - including chairs and cushions!

3. Be gentle on yourself and don't over stretch.

4. Instead of putting off yoga because you don't have time to 'go' somewhere, start practising at home, with a good video or DVD. Do a few exercise each day, every day.

5. Don't worry about buying expensive props. Whilst a yoga mat is excellent, most of the other props used for pregnancy yoga can be found around the house - chairs at different heights, blankets or a light throw for relaxation, a beanbag (this makes a great support to lean against), and cushions of different sizes (these are used to put under your knees, or behind your head, amongst other things)

6. When doing the meditation at the end, don't be afraid to sit or lie in a different way. What feels comfortable will change during pregnancy, and will certainly be different to what felt comfortable when you weren't pregnant. You don't have to adopt a classical yoga pose here. The priority should be in feeling comfortable.

7. Pick some yoga poses that strengthen and lengthen the back muscles, the buttocks, thighs and abdominal muscles. These muscles are all important for maintaining good posture, and holding the pelvis in the right position. They help your posture adjust as your body changes during pregnancy.

8. If you're doing aqua yoga, it's best to pick a swimming pool. The water should ideally be chest height, but anywhere from waist to shoulder height is fine.

9. Props for aqua yoga would be foam noodles and some floats. They will help provide support for some exercises, and for the relaxation at the end.

10. Get some friends or other expectant Moms from the prenatal class together for regular aqua yoga sessions in a local pool. You might be able to economically book the pool when you all share the cost.

To find which prenatal yoga exercises are the best options, click here.http://www.yogatohealth.com/What_Prenatal_Yoga_Exercises_and_Poses_Are_The_Best.html

For information on bikram yoga and more, click here. http://www.yogatohealth.com/

How to Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------

Yoga for Kids: The Holistic Approach to the Health of our Children

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga is “preventative medicine” for children and adults. Yet the world does not embrace preventative action. Just look at hunger, global warming, health care, and poverty; some people do take action, but many do not.

Educating the public about the benefits, which children experience from Yoga practice, is a full-time job for some Yoga teachers. Although most of the public thinks of Yoga postures as a mild form of exercise; there are many different aspects to Yoga practice.

Yoga is a complete holistic approach to health. Yoga teaches proper breathing, dieting, exercise, meditation, relaxation techniques, and many more natural solutions to health problems.

Yoga and Ayurvedic medicine have dieting practices based upon a person’s constitution or dosha. This same classification can be made for exercise routines. An Ayurvedic doctor will likely recommend specific exercises based upon a patient’s dosha.

The entire approach of Yoga and Ayurveda is based upon preventative measures. There are also solutions for “damage control,” when a person has an existing ailment, but any doctor can agree that many of today’s health problems are preventable.

Let’s look at global obesity. The public is tired of hearing about obesity. Your spam filters are working overtime to pull all of the “Instant weight loss” methods out of your Email box. If you read through the spam, you will notice that spammers want to sell you pills, not permanent solutions to obesity. The spammer’s approach is to make quick money off the public.

When the majority of our population refuses to exercise, the easy money is in selling pills, instant weight loss, and “snake oil.” There is a solution, but most of us will not like it. Yogic diets are full of fruit, vegetables, and natural food. Even in India, it can be observed that diabetes is on the rise, when people eat “junk food.”

As the Indian economy has improved, so has the “middle class appetite” for processed food. This runs parallel to western social and economic patterns.

What does this have to do with Yoga for kids? Yoga is a lifestyle and the earlier you expose children to good health habits, the better your child’s health will be.

As parents, we have many choices, but establishing good health habits, within our children, is an obligation. We also have to eat properly, and exercise, with our children. If you cannot go to a Yoga class, you can always take your child out for a walk. Parents are role models, and any child will copy the image, which you create for him or her.

Yoga classes for children are a parent’s gift of good health. Yoga gives them a better chance to develop good habits, handle stress, find natural solutions to good health, and live a quality life.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Become a Yoga Teacher

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com/
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Learn Yoga and Pilates in Attleboro

Attleboro Yoga / Pilates Schedule

Classes at: Aura Wellness Center, 21 Park Street, Suite 202, Attleboro, MA

Grand Opening October 2, 2006

Monday: 6:00 to 7:00 pm - Beginners / Restorative Yoga with Marie Jerard, CYT 500

Restorative Yoga is a gentle form of Yoga, where you learn to develop a safe routine. Yoga props are made available for better alignment and for less strain on the body. Although Restorative Yoga is gentle, don't be deceived; you will build strength, muscle tone, and flexibility. Meditation, relaxation, and proper breathing are also part of the curriculum.

Tuesday: 6:00 to 7:15 pm - Vinyasa Yoga with Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Vinyasa Yoga is a physically challenging form of Yoga and a "sister style" of Power Yoga. Yoga students, who practice Vinyasa, gain strength, increase flexibility, burn calories, and work the cardio vascular system. Vinyasa Yoga is one of the ultimate cross-training methods available today. Vinyasa Yoga will increase your self-confidence and firm your entire body.

Wednesday: 6:00 to 7:00 pm - Pilates Body Sculpt with Marie

Pilates is a very popular health maintenance system. Marie teaches traditional, as well as "offshoots," of Pilates mat exercises; modifications are shown to help firm your abs, glutes, and inner thighs. Pilates conditions the entire body through stretching and strengthening of muscles. It creates balance by improving posture and aligning the body.

Thursday: 6:00 to 7:15 pm - Yoga Fusion with Paul

If you are interested in movement, this is the class for you! Yoga Fusion is a mixture of Vinyasa Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, and flowing movement. Some light weight resistance will be included. We encourage you to bring plenty of water with you to keep you hydrated.

Saturday: 9:30 to 10:15 am - Kids Yoga with Paul

Yoga for Kids helps children develop life skills through improved concentration, coordination, and the proper use of body mechanics. Your child will develop athletic skills, which will carry on into other sports and activities throughout his/her life. All of today's professional sports teams incorporate Yoga into their training programs.

Yoga classes for kids are more than just a fun activity. Children learn life skills such as: Goal Setting, Success, Anger Management, Self Discipline, Positive Thinking, and Stress Management. Children also learn to control their body weight, gain strength, and increase flexibility safely and in a positive atmosphere.

Parents are welcomed to practice Yoga with their children in this class. Parents can join this class for half off. This is a limited time offer for parents.

Practice Jnana Yoga for Optimum Mental Health

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Anyone who cares about their health often focuses on keeping his or her body in peak condition. Who considers the health of the mind? A psychiatrist or a psychologist is concerned with behavior, and mental health, but how can Yoga help you?

We have all heard Yoga is a good “mind and body exercise,” but how does a Yoga student exercise his or her mind through Yoga practice. How can Yoga help you develop mental strength? Let’s look at one of the many styles of Yoga, to find answers, and acquire optimum mental health.

Jnana Yoga is the union of mind, body, and spirit, through acquired knowledge. It is true that reading will make your mind sharp, but what do Jnana Yogis read? Traditionally, Jnana Yogis read Hindu scriptures to expand their knowledge.

Yoga has been around for thousands of years. The Brahmin caste would have had more access to Yogic philosophy, and the scriptures (Vedas), than the average person, at that time.

This same parallel can be made to any holy man of any religion. Access to written knowledge, books, and Holy Scriptures was not common place, in any religion, hundreds of years ago. There was a time when the average person was forbidden to have a copy of the Bible. The early Bibles were very big, expensive to produce, and not meant for the public to interpret. Whether we like it, or not, this is a part of history.

Now, let’s fast forward to the 21st century. Millions of new computer users are accessing the Internet every year. So, how is it that more people, than ever, are disconnected from their mind, body, and spirit? We have attention disorders, multi-tasking, and many distractions to keep us far from tranquility.

Even in a Yoga class, you may hear a cell phone go off - despite the fact there are rules and a sign on the entrance of most Yoga studios. The sign might read, “Turn your cell phone off,” but people do not see it, even if it is right under their nose. Why?

Unfortunately, people do not read or pursue vital information. Cable television has hundreds of channels and the Internet has millions of sites. Do you really think the masses are trying to expand their minds by reading?

Jnana Yoga practice, and regular meditation, raises the “Level of Consciousness.” Yet it seems that prosperity seems to breed poor mental and physical health. When given the choice, children would rather play video games than watch the History Channel. Therefore, many adults must be getting in touch with their “inner child.”

Now, let’s come full circle. Entertainment is a wonderful thing, but we should be deliberate in our efforts to challenge our minds. Creativity cannot be found in games that are programmed or in viewing stories where you can easily guess the ending.

Your mind must be challenged on a daily basis by reading good quality writing and watching entertainment that is true art. The modern Jnana Yoga practitioner has much more access to education, information, art, and entertainment. However, he or she must be much more selective than ever before.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

--------------------------------------------
FREE Yoga Report. FREE Yoga Newsletter.
Bonus: Free Yoga e-Book, "Yoga in Practice."
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/docs/Yoga-in-Practice-eBook.pdf
Visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/
Affiliates: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/signup.html
Sister Blog: http://yoga-teacher-training.blogspot.com/
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com/
--------------------------------------------
FREE CONTENT: If you are a Yoga Teacher, Yoga studio, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles) – Please be sure to reprint each article, as is, including the resource box above. Namaste, Paul
--------------------------------------------

Yoga Classes in Attleboro, Massachusetts

Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates.

Aura has relocated from North Providence, RI to downtown Attleboro, MA.

The new Aura Wellness Center downtown Attleboro location, will open 11:00 am on Monday, October 2, 2006.

Our first beginner's Yoga class in Attleboro will be at 6:00 pm on Monday, October 2, 2006.

We are currently taking new Yoga students.

Telephone: 508-222-0092 to reserve your space or for Yoga class information.

You can also contact Marie at: aurayoga2@aol.com

We have Yoga, Pilates, Personal Fitness Training, and many more programs for mind / body health.

Private Yoga training is available.

To see the Aura Wellness Center October schedule in Attleboro, visit:
http://www.riyoga.com/

Are You Willing To Follow Eight Yoga Exercises For the Lower Back?

By Shelley Hitz

EXERCISES FOR BACK RELIEF

Many people believe that rest is best for a painful back, but actually, what your back really needs when it’s hurt is exercise. Regular exercise relieves back pain by strengthening and stretching the muscles that support the spine and helps to prevent future injury. This is a use it or lose it situation: the more you rest, the weaker your back gets, even if it is hurt. Studies have actually shown that you can heal your back pain faster and get back to your regular activities with just two days of rest. This article will focus on Yoga Exercises. Remember to contact your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

YOGA EXERCISES FOR YOUR BACK

A good, regular yoga practice will go far in relieving the stress and tension that sometimes cause mild back pain, and in fact, studies have shown that yoga is the number one most effective exercise for relieving back pain. However, not all yoga poses relieve back pain, and some can in fact aggravate existing pain, so it is important to know which poses will be most helpful in relieving back pain. It is best to do these exercises under the supervision of a certified yoga instructor, and if you encounter any problems with these poses, you should consult an expert. Even just one or two sessions with a yoga instructor can help, as an instructor will help you with your form and posture during poses. Here are some of the best yoga poses for relieving back pain. Each pose should be held from five to ten seconds, depending upon your level of comfort, and should be done on a mat or other soft, supportive surface.

CORPSE: Lie flat on your back in a relaxed position, arms resting at your sides, palms down, and legs lying naturally, with knees turned out slightly. If it hurts your back to have your knees turned outward, do this pose with knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Breathe in and out for a few seconds while allowing any tension to leave the body.

CAT STRETCH: Start out on your hands and knees with a flat back. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders with fingers spread. Knees should be directly under the hips. Head is held loosely so that you are looking at the floor between your hands. Inhale, and as you exhale, arch your back toward the ceiling, tuck your chin in to your chest so that you are looking at your navel, and tuck your tailbone underneath. Hold, then release back into your original position.

WIND-RELEASING POSE: Lie flat on your back as in Corpse pose. As you inhale, bend your knee, place your hands right below the knee, and draw your leg towards your chest. Your left leg should remain flat on the floor. Exhale and bring your forehead up to touch your knee. Inhale, and then as you exhale, return to your original position. Repeat with the other leg.

SAGE TWIST: Warning for this pose—it involves twisting your back, so you should take particular care not to twist too far or you risk aggravating any existing back pain. This should be a gentle stretch; twist just as far as is comfortable. Sit on the floor with both legs out in front of you. Bend your right knee, lift your right leg over your left, and place your right foot on the floor next to your left knee. Sitting with spine straight, place your left elbow on the right side of your right knee. Bend your left arm so that your left fingertips are touching your right hip, while at the same time, twisting to look over your right shoulder. This is where you need to be careful not to twist too far. Hold for a few seconds, release, and repeat on the opposite side.

PALM TREE: Stand with feet facing forward, arms at your sides, weight distributed evenly on both feet. Raise both arms over your head, interlock your fingers, and turn your hands so that your palms are facing upward. Next, place your palms on your head and turn your head so that you are looking slightly upward. Stretch your arms upwards, and at the same time, come up onto your toes if you can do so without pain. Stretch your entire body upward and hold, if you can. Some people have difficulty balancing during this pose, so just do the stretching part if you need to.

FISH POSE: Lie on your back with knees bent and arms at your side. Arch your back as far as you comfortably can and raise it off the ground by pushing the floor with your elbows. If you can, tilt your head backwards and rest the crown of your head on the floor. Breathe deeply from the diaphragm and hold pose for one minute if you can.

LOCUST: Lie face down with arms at the side, palms down, and elbows slightly bent with fingers pointing towards the feet. Raise your legs and thighs as high off the ground as possible without causing your back any pain. Hold for one second and repeat up to twelve times. This can be a vigorous exercise so you must take care to strain already injured muscles.

BENDING FORWARD POSTURE: Stand up straight with feet together and arms hanging loosely along your sides. Breathe in deeply and raise your arms straight above your head. While breathing out, bend forward and touch your toes if you can. If you can’t reach your toes, grab hold of your ankles or calves. To complete the pose, you should touch your head to your knees, but this may be too difficult for many who suffer from lower back pain. Your movements during this pose should be smooth, not jerky.

Written by Shelley Hitz, Licensed Physical Therapist and Certified NASM Personal Trainer. Sign up for her free Exercise Advice journal at http://www.abs-exercise-advice.com/journal.html or read more about yoga poses at her website http://www.abs-exercise-advice.com/free-yoga-exercises-online.html. Get your free unbelievable abs ball workout here!

Side Note: Aura Wellness Center will have Restorative Yoga classes on Monday at 6:00 p.m. Starting on October 2, 2006. Restorative Yoga is useful for back pain relief. Visit us at Aura Wellness Center, 21 Park Street, Suite 202 in downtown Attleboro, MA.

Yoga and Spiritual Self-Reconciliation

By Paul Jerard

Yoga is a broad term, but it has many styles that are encompassed within this health maintenance system. Most forms of Yoga address physical, mental, and spiritual health - while some are a little strong in one area, but might be a bit lacking somewhere else.

One example would be Hatha Yoga and its many popular sub-styles. When Yoga traveled outside India, it evolved into non-Hindu cultures who chose to keep the spiritual aspect out of Yoga classes. Yoga is not a religion, but Hindu principles do exist within some Yoga studios.

For example: Yama and Niyama are Hindu principles, but many of us would recognize them as universal principles within all religions. We are all familiar with not stealing, lying, or killing each other. However, some Hindu concepts, such as having multi-Gods did not mix well with Christians, Moslems, Jews, or Buddhists.

Many of these cultures focused on the physical aspects and continued to take care of their spiritual health in their church, mosque, temple, or shrine. This is fine, but technology and materialism have started to destroy the family unit.

When families are not unified, religion is often cast aside. This is not always the rule, but when you go to a local church, mosque, temple, or shrine; make a mental note of how many young families you see. If you see a crowd that is well mixed in age groups - this is a spiritually healthy congregation.

However, if you rarely see any young people, this is a problem. Consider the state of spiritual health within this age group. Now, consider that Yoga is a viable solution for a lack of spiritual health, regardless of the religion practiced. Yoga allows the practitioner to open his or her awareness of spiritual health.

Now, maybe you are concerned that a Yoga teacher, who guides students toward spiritual awareness, might try to convert you to his or her religion. Here is the solution: If you want spiritual health from Yoga - find a Yoga teacher who practices the same religion you do.

Lastly, attend your local church, mosque, temple, or shrine. Seek spiritual guidance from a priest, rabbi, mullah, monk, or minister, in the religion you are comfortable with. You do not have to convert to anything. The answers to spiritual guidance, health, and enlightenment are within your religion.

The sooner we all realize that peaceful co-existence, and tolerance, will bring about world peace, the better. These are the universal principles of Yoga, and they do not conflict with any religion.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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Hot Yoga - Bikram's Twenty Six

By Carina Snowden

Even though the world population has shifted from mainly rural to mainly urban in the last decade, there are still lots of folks like me who live in the sticks. Doing things like taking a yoga class becomes a different thing in our case from driving to the neighborhood gym.

Since I live 40 miles from the nearest town large enough for yoga studios, when I decided to take a class, I was more interested in the schedule than I was the type of yoga. I couldn't afford to be picky if I preferred not to wait around for a couple hours after getting off work.

So I looked in the phone book, and didn't pay attention to anything but the schedule. There it was: M-W-F at 4:00. Perfect. I don't know what rock I'd been living under, but the word "Bikram" writ large across the ad in the yellow pages didn't trigger the term 'hot yoga' in my mind, and that left me in for a big surprise.

I showed up with a comfy pair of sweatpants and a long- sleeved t-shirt. As the woman at the desk was giving me a little orientation information - explaining that the room was heated to about 100 degrees Fahrenheit - I realized that my concept of yoga clothes weren't going to work here. Apparently, I wasn't the first to make this error. Susie told me they had loaners. Now, it's been a while since the last time I wore hot-pants, so when she handed me the little scrap of shorts, I thought, "No way." She said, "Trust me, you'll fit right in."

Susie continued, giving a few more orientation tips, which started to seem like a set of warnings. "Our first-time students are encouraged to rest whenever you feel you should - kind of take it gradually. The instructors just ask that you do your best to stay in the room for the entire time." What? Were we still talking yoga here?

I'd seen pictures. Sure, I might not be able to balance on one leg while holding the other one over my head at my first try, but come on. How hard could it be to stretch as far as I could go and stop there? Why would I get desperate to leave the room?

Her next suggestion: "OK, I see you brought a bottle of water. That's good, but you'll be tempted to drink a lot, and I recommend you just drink sips - not too much at a time." Hmm. What was I getting into here? It sounded like I was facing some kind of ordeal - not what I had in mind at all since I was thinking of yoga as a peaceful, low- impact way just to stretch and keep my aging body flexible and strong.

Once I was dressed in the little bit of shorts, I opened the door to the yoga studio and was met with a rush of hot, stultifying air. Oh goody. I walked to an open space, spread my mat, lay on my back, and understood exactly what she meant by asking me to at least stay in the room. I was already dripping with sweat, and we hadn't even begun the class.

Ninety minutes and twice through the 26 poses later, I was indeed still in the room. In the non-competitive, supportive atmosphere I had been completely guided to go to my edge, but not so far that I would be turned off by struggle. In fact, I was exhilarated. I lay on my back at the end, eyes closed in the peaceful, very hot room, and knew I'd be back for more.

To find out more about how to become a yoga instructor or see our selection of online yoga instructor certification courses, please use the yoga resources on the right side of this page.

If you are a teacher, yoga studio manager, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is. Namaste!