Attleboro Yoga Class

Pet Yoga and Downward Facing Dogs

2011-06-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

By Faye Martins

According to a 2004 BBC article, New York City-based yoga teacher Suzi Teitelman invented doggie yoga, or “doga” as it’s sometimes called. As an instructor for the fitness chain Crunch, she had an inspiration and decided to include her cocker spaniel in the class, since he frequently joined her on the mat during her home practice and “Ruff Yoga” was born. Since then, a flood of doga classes have emerged across the United States. There’s even a book, called “Doga: Yoga For Dogs,” by Jennifer Brilliant and William Berloni.

What is “pet Yoga,” and can it honor the real practice of yoga? Formats vary, but practices typically last 30 minutes, rather than a full hour or more, to honor the pets’ shorter attention span. Asanas done are standard hatha yoga poses, adapted to include the pets. This may mean a standing forward bend holding the dog’s hind legs, as he performs a wheelbarrow pose. Standard yoga mats are used, but no other props, perhaps to avoid tempting the canine participants. Doga classes start with setting an intention and can end with savasana, modified to rest the human’s head on her canine partner. Some studios even provide bubbling water “fountains” for the dogs to drink from after a practice.

Teitelman claims that after four years of practicing with her, her dog is more flexible, calmer and can go into poses more deeply. Others claim that their pets become more focused and that older dogs’ joints benefit from the practice. Animal therapist Dan Thomas at London’s Pet Pavilion company claimed that “after a few minutes, even the most unruly of participants appeared to chill out, relax and become calmer,” and he also noted that the dog’s breathing seemed to be in synch with the human yoga practitioners.

Whether or not pet yoga can provide all the benefits of standard yoga, there is no doubt that pet owners want to incorporate their companions in every aspect of their lives. According to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet. That means 72.9 millions homes have a pet, and the spending on these furry friends tops $50 billion annually. At least 16.5 million Americans practice yoga, according to statistics available from NAMASTA, the North American Studio Alliance, giving these two industries much overlap. Should you choose to incorporate a pet yoga practice at your studio, training videos are available online.

To see our selection of Online Yoga teacher training courses, please visit the following link.

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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!

Hypertension and Yoga

2011-06-12T16:07:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

To function properly, the human body must maintain sufficient blood pressure, to allow blood to be pushed to all extremities and flow throughout the body. However, when the blood pressure is very high, it is known as hypertension. The heart must work hard, and strain, to pump the blood volume. Hypertensive patients are at high risk for organ damage, including damage to the retina, brain, heart, and kidneys.

Yoga is shown to lower blood pressure, and those who regularly practice a Yogic lifestyle, usually enjoy lower rates of hypertension than the general population. Practicing Yoga, to control hypertension, has been proven effective – without the side effects experienced with medication. However, proper instruction with a competent Yoga teacher and a medical professional are strongly advised.

Note: Anyone with hypertension should discuss their treatment with a physician, including any Yoga practice they intend to pursue.

B. K. S. Iyengar, one of the world’s foremost experts on Yoga and a teacher for 75 years, offers a number of suggestions regarding the practice of Yoga to reduce hypertension. B. K. S. Iyengar’s book, “Light on Yoga,” details the asanas, which regulate the blood pressure. Forward bends, supine positions, sitting positions, and inversions all help blood pressure, with forward bends being the fundamental asanas recommended.

Note: The above mentioned inversions are recommended for the purpose of “regulating” blood pressure – but may not be advised for those individuals who have high blood pressure.

B. K. S. Iyengar recommends the following Yoga poses (asanas), in particular, for the management of high blood pressure: Savasana (resting pose), Virasana (hero pose), Uttanasana (standing forward bend), Janu Sirsasana (head to knee pose), Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (bridge pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward facing dog), and Baddha Konasana (cobbler or bound ankle pose).

These poses relieve stress and relax the sympathetic nervous system, allowing blood pressure to drop. There are also several asanas that should be avoided by people with high blood pressure. Vrksasana (tree pose) should be practiced, without the arms raised overhead.

Utthita Trikonasana (extended triangle pose) should be modified, by turning the head to gaze downward, leaving the hand at the waist instead of raising it upward. Virabhadrasana 2 and 3 (warrior two and three), Adho Mukha Vrksasana (full arm balance) and Sirsasana (headstand) should not be practiced at all by those with hypertension.

The definitive study on Yoga and high blood pressure is considered to be Chandra Patel and W.R.S. North’s research – published in the journal, “The Lancet” in 1975 – in which 34 hypertensive patients participated. They were assigned to either to Yoga relaxation methods with bio-feedback, or given a placebo therapy (general relaxation) for six weeks.

As a fully randomized study, the results were highly significant, with blood pressure in the Yoga group falling from 168/100 to 141/84 mm. (Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be 120/80 mm.) There is every reason, for those with hypertension, to explore Yoga as a complementary treatment.

© Copyright 2011 – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

To see our selection of Online Yoga teacher training courses, please visit the following link.

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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!

How to Improve Your Eyesight with Yoga

2011-05-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Over time, Yoga has proven remarkably beneficial for nearly every part of the body. However, the question lingers: “Can Yoga be used to actually improve eyesight?” Though solid research is lacking, there are at least three types of Yoga, which appear, at least circumstantially, to do just that.

Bates Method

Dr. William Bates, who died in 1931, was an American physician and ophthalmologist, who developed what is now called, the Bates Method for better eyesight. The method improves vision by relearning a supposed habitual strain to see. His theory, which proposes that the eye focuses, by elongating the eyeball, rather than by changing the power of the lens, was not upheld by his peers and remains unproven today.

Nonetheless, the founder and director of the Center and School for Self-Healing, in San Francisco, Meir Schneider, avows that the practice of consciously relaxing the eyes in a Yogic method, in accordance with the Bates Method, allowed him to see again after being pronounced blind at age 6. Schneider teaches Yoga for eyes, involving palming, massage, blinking, and shifting the eyes, and a number of happy students credit him with the return of vision they thought was gone forever.

Dahn Yoga

Dahn Yoga, from Korea, also offers exercises to strengthen the eyes and potentially improve eyesight. According to Dahn practitioners, the eyes are connected to the liver meridian, and exercises that stimulate the liver, help eyesight. According to the U.S. Dahn Yoga website, meridians, or energy pathways, for all organs flow through the abdominal area. By stimulating the abdomen, the energy center will develop. To stimulate and provide warmth in the dahn-jon (energy concentration in the abdomen), the practitioner should rub, press, and tap, the area around the ribs, on both sides. The liver, spleen, and gall bladder meridians are all focused in the area, and eyesight should improve.

Trataka or Drishti

Trataka, or the “uninterrupted gaze,” is a method that is said to cleanse the eyes and their passages. The technique is usually taught with a candle flame, but students may also use any item with a positive connotation. The center of the candle is the focus for the gaze, and complete awareness of the flickering nature of the candle is held.

The gaze is kept steady, and the eyelids are kept open, for as long as possible, without blinking. The practice stimulates the tear glands and tears appear after about 10 minutes, having a cleansing effect on the eyes. Eye rotations, and rapid eye movements, done without moving the head, can also be practiced, focusing on moving objects, such as one’s thumb. Trataka relaxes the mind; and as mental stress, headaches, and eyestrain are combined, the overall effect is improvement of vision.

To see our complete selection of Yoga teacher training courses, please feel free to visit the following link.

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Meditation at Aura Wellness Center

2011-04-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

Yoga Meditation to Awaken the Mind

By Kimaya Singh

There are many Yoga meditation techniques I learned ay Aura Wellness Center to help the mind focus and concentrate. However, the classic Yogic meditation technique to awaken the mind is based on the gift of Shaktipat, or divine awakening. A truly awakened and enlivened mind is permeated with divine awareness and light. This gift of awakening is usually bestowed on a Yoga student by an enlightened meditation master.

According to ancient Vedic wisdom from the Indian scriptures, there is a serpent coiled three and a half times at the base of our spines. She is located at approximately the fourth vertebrae. This serpent is known as the divine Kundalini Shakti. She is said to only awaken when a devotee comes into contact with an enlightened master.

This contact can occur in a variety of ways, through a touch, glance, picture, book or hearing the voice of the master. Some people even receive Shakipat through an interaction with an enlightened master in a dream. Once the Kundalini Shakti is awakened, she begins to ascend upwards along the spine and through the chakras, until she ultimately pierces the crown chakra. When she pierces the crown chakra, the mind is truly awakened.

Once the Shakti is awakened, there are a number of classical Yoga meditation techniques that will nourish her journey through the chakras. With this continuing unfolding, various mental powers will also be awakened. These powers can range from clairvoyance to clairaudience and even a heightened sense of smell. A very highly-evolved meditation master will even be able to mentally penetrate the interior reality of a common object and find the essence of the universe within the object itself.

Repeating a mantra, especially an enlivened mantra given to you by a meditation master, will strengthen the Kundalini Shakti energy within your own begin. It is important to establish a regular, daily meditation practice to truly nourish your awakened mind. A classic mantra that is often given to a devotee is the So Ham mantra. This mantra means simply, I am. You can repeat this mantra internally or externally with each breath. As you breath in, repeat So Ham or I am. As you breath out, repeat So Ham or I am. Continue this meditation practice for some period of time.

As the Kundalini Shakti grows stronger and stronger, your mind will become quieter, more able to focus and truly awake. Remember to not get caught up in any mental powers or siddhis that you may develop. The goal of Shaktipat is to ultimately rest in the divinity in your own heart. Many thanks to Paulji and the members of Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro, Massachusetts.

To see our selection of Online Yoga teacher training courses, please visit the following link.

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Relax Yourself by Taking Yoga

2010-09-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

By Jesus Smith

Think about how much better you feel after you have taken a deep breath during a busy day and calmed yourself down for just a moment. That feeling of relief can be wonderful for reducing stress during the day and for getting that moment to simply regroup and focus on what is important to you. Yoga can be the method you can use to achieve this feeling of deep relaxation each day to calm you down and have a more productive day to follow.

Yoga utilizes that same breathing feeling previously described to not only help your mind begin to meditate, but to also help you control the movements while practicing the yoga poses. You may feel refreshed after just one yoga session and be hooked for life! It used to be very common for women to practice yoga frequently, but in recent years the benefits have been so well publicized that men and children are also reaping the goodness that yoga can bring. You do not need to be a fitness master or extremely athletic to engage in yoga which is one of the reasons it is so popular currently. Any age range can participate as long as you can move your body into a few basic positions you can begin starting to enjoy yoga.

Once you progress along with the yoga instruction, you will not only begin to see results quickly, but you will also notice how well your body is adjusting to the poses and you can begin to take more advanced instruction as well. The longer you begin to hold to the poses in your yoga class, the more toned and conditioned your body will become. This is a wonderful achievement and something to be quite proud of when you can reach an advanced level of practicing yoga. Your body becomes very defined and you are not experiencing all of those minor aches and pains that you once were. Better sleep at night and a feeling of being more alert during the day are two other key benefits to practicing yoga. After you have started the instruction, you will notice your body will begin to crave the yoga more and more. Each day you can attempt to hold your poses a little bit longer and after even just one week, you will begin to get stronger and truly advance your yoga skills.

Naturally, if you begin to eat a more health conscious diet you will reap the benefits of your yoga classes even faster. Drinking lots of water and ensuring you are wearing comfortable clothing for your yoga classes will also greatly improve your ability to advance. You can research the many different types of yoga you can practice on the internet as you will find there are several different options. Do not take an advanced form of yoga to start with and start off slowly if you like by taking one or two classes per week until you feel at ease with your new fitness routine.

Jesus was looking at buying a new LG 42LD450 television. He looked at 42LD450 prices and they didn't seem too bad. It had the size screen that he wanted, it does 1080P which is great quality and it was easy to wall mount. He bought it and is very happy about his purchase.

Yoga as a Health Practice

2010-08-29T09:59:00.000-07:00

By Sabrina Smith

Yoga has been revered for centuries by many countries of Asia for its ability to heal and promote health and wellness. Some of the countries have derived medical practices that revolve around the key concept of yoga: balancing the mind body and spirit to achieve their goal of health and wellness. India, one of the Asian countries that has been at the heart of yoga for many years, developed the practice of Ayurveda. Yoga and Yogic practices such as meditation, and postures are key to its medicines. Aside from this form of traditional medicine Yoga has been proven to be very beneficial in modern day, curing such ailments like depression, decreasing the risk of heart attacks, stimulating irregular bowls and creating healthy eating habits, helping to release your body from addiction, as well as promote a healthy physical, mental and emotional body.

Ayurveda has been very much a common medicinal practice in India working hand in hand with yoga and it has most recently been made popular by Deepak Chopra, M.D. Chopra explains the methodology of Ayurveda, and its view of the human body as a quantum mechanical device, that is not easily fixed through the prescription of magic pills. But can return back to a balanced state once the body’s energies begin to function in harmony. He explains Ayurveda uses Yogic techniques of mediation to heal the emotional issues such as depression. In his book Perfect Health, Chopra tells a story of a young man whose parents had divorced causing him to fall into a deep depression. When he went off to college the symptoms worsened, causing him to suffer from blindingly severe headaches, acute pain, dizziness and vomiting.

He dropped out of college before the end of the first semester, his father sent him to see a therapist that prescribed him an array anti-depressants. But nothing worked very good or for very long. After a few years of dealing with the depression and thoughts of suicide he had heard about meditation from a friend. The young man began to employ the techniques he learned. He began to find the place deep down inside of him where the headaches and the depression did not dwell. Through continued meditation his small island of awareness slowly became larger, and slowly he began to see his true self that had been hidden underneath the depression and pain (Chopra, 160-63).

The yogic practice of meditation can also reduce the risk of heart attack among those who suffer from borderline hypertension, and high cholesterol. A study conducted at Harvard medical School in 1974 studied twenty-two hypertensive patients. The study showed that the average reading dropped from150/94 to 141/88 it was enough to bring the diastolic pressure (the bottom number) down from borderline to a normal range. However the systolic pressure (the top number) was not lowered enough to be considered normal. However any elevation in blood pressure for an extended period of time can take years off one’s life. So, one might consider the experiment a success (Chopra, 164). Similar experiments to this one have been done regarding patience with high-cholesterol.

Meditation has been used in a study done by two researchers in Israel, M.J. Cooper and M.M. Aygen showed that employing meditation could lower cholesterol. The researchers took a group of 23 patients with elevated cholesterol, twelve were taught meditation and eleven were not. At the end of eleven months they screened their cholesterol again. The twelve that meditated dropped their levels from an average of 255 to an average 225 (the expectable number in the U.S. is 200). This same team did the same study with patience that had normal cholesterol numbers as well. The study showed that cholesterol could be lowered in people who had a normal cholesterol number (Chopra, 164-165). The mind is a powerful device in Yoga and meditation is a showcase of its power at work. However it is not the only device that is activated through yogic practices.

The postures used in Yogic practice as well as the Yogic diet can help to stimulate irregular bowels. Yogic postures give a gentle message to the abdominal viscera, postures like the cat and the plow help to correct constipation, aid in digestion and bowel action (Hewitt, 222 & 244). In regards to the yogic diet, “overeating and underrating are alike detrimental to success in Yoga. A Yogic rule is that one should finish a meal feeling that a little more could have been taken,” (Hewitt, 398). A Yogic diet is considered lacto-vegetarian, not eating meat for ethical as well as health reasons. The yogic diet is further broken down in smaller food groups.

There are particular food groups in the Yogic diet that are considered to influence the human personality, sattvic “pure” food, rajasic “stimulating” food, and “tamasic” impure food. The “pure” foods consist of milk, butter fruits, vegetables and grains. “Stimulating” foods are foods that are stimulating to the nervous system like, spicy, strong tasting foods, meat, fish eggs and alcohol. “Impure” foods are foods that have been putrefied, overripe, rotten or impure in some way (Hewitt 154.) Much of the modern diet consists of these “impure” foods, especially for those who consume meat and processed food.

Have you ever wondered how come meat is not hard and stiff due to rigor mortis, it becomes tender again due to putrefaction, or the decaying process. Much of all food that comes pre-packaged will fall into the category of “impure” due to the additives and preservatives that grace the ingredient list.

According to the Bhagavad-Gita these “impure foods make a person dull and lazy. Their thinking capacity diminishes and they sink almost to the level of animals or bushmen. They have no high ideals or purpose in life; on a physical side, they suffer from chronic ailments of the body,” (Swami Vishnu-devananda, 209). Throughout the practice Yoga one opens themselves up to a new level of awareness in regards to what they put in their body and how it affects them.

“Pure” foods are said to bring purity and calmness to the mind and are soothing and nourishing to the body. Rajasic or “stimulating” foods arouse the animal passion in man and brings a restless state of mind (Swami Vishnu-Devananda, 209).

Beyond the food that we put in our body there are substances that are not only physically harmful to our bodies but are very detrimental to our Being. For instance drugs and the addiction that accompanies them, ranging from nicotine to narcotics cause not only physical harm but disrupt the chemical patterns in bodies. For many, addiction is a hard pattern to break free from. Addiction is like when you manually over ride a program to make it do something out side of its memory. The body has a memory of how the body is suppose to work in a healthy pattern, but the addictive pattern has taken over. Yoga can be used to help restore and remind the body of what the healthy pattern is.

When one begins to practice yoga they begin to open up the chakras in the body, freeing up the energy flow within the body. Yogic postures that are specific to the particular chakra where the addiction is held can be extremely helpful in freeing the body from the addictive pattern. For instance if the addiction rest in the Root Chakra or Muladahar, one would want to practice an asana that would ground them, consisting of seated postures, supine, as well as prone. It is good to have a well rounded set of asana’s so that the chakras do not become over or under stimulated but when you have areas that need focus it is good to give them the attention that they need.

This attention does not only have to be in the form of the physical asana, as mentioned before the mind is a very powerful device and through meditation addictions pattern can be broken as well. This can happen unintentionally. A study done in 1972, by physiologist Robert Keith Wallace, showed that a group of 1,860 mostly college students that began to practice meditation decreased their drug use significantly. After twenty-one months of practicing their drug dependency in the areas of narcotics, barbiturates, hallucinogens, marijuana and amphetamines decreased so much that most had stopped using all together.

Marijuana was still used by about twelve percent and all the others ranged from one to four percent of users. The most interesting part is that they were not part of a rehabilitation program, they were not asked to quit, and the researcher did not follow their progress, nor reward them for abstaining (Chopra, 201-202). It was the mediators’ body coming back into sync, and no longer being part of the addictive pattern.

Yoga as a whole promotes a healthy lifestyle. Yoga makes you more aware of what you are putting in to your body, how you are. Whether you are exercising or not exercising, healthy and un-healthy habits that you have developed in your life, or habits that you hope to develop. Yoga can be used to encourage healing within the body whether it is physical, mental or emotional. This is often through meditation but not limited to meditation. Yogic postures and diet play an integral part in Yoga as a “health practice.”

Work Cited

Chopra, Deepak M.D. “Perfect Health.” New York, Three Rivers Press; 2000.

Hewitt, James. “The Complete Book of Yoga.” New York, Schocken Books; 1977.

Vishnu-Devananda, Swami. “The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga.” New York,

Three Rivers Press; 1988.

Sabrina Smith is a certified Yoga teacher. She teaches classes in the Oakley, California area.

Teaching Hatha Yoga – Two Yoga Poses for Stress

2010-08-28T04:45:00.000-07:00

By Sanjeev Patel, CYT

It is slowly nearing the beginning of fall in North America. Officially, the fall season will begin on September 22nd, but for some who dislike cooler temperatures, anxiety or stress may follow the summer season. The following two Yoga asanas are easy to practice and help students to release stored energy, which can create bad moods.

Half Spinal Twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana)

This posture is sometimes called “Half Lord of the Fishes pose.” The name can be traced to Sage Matsyendra. Ardha Matsyendrasana can be confusing to some, but it releases physical tension within the entire body. Physical tension stored at a desk, in a car, and on the couch is a recipe for stress overload.

Directions: Sitting, bend the right knee and place the right foot with the heel against the left buttock. The sole of the left foot belongs on the floor on the outside of the right knee. Bend the left arm behind the back and look out over the left shoulder. The right arm presses on outside of the left thigh and knee, the right hand grasping the inside of the left foot. The twist begins and the sacrum and climbs gradually up the spine to the head. Butt stays firm on the ground, feet stay flat on the floor, toes spread. Spine is straight. Then, alternate sides.

This twisting posture prevents backache and keeps the spine flexible and young. It massages the internal organs, aiding in digestion and detoxification. Like all twisting postures, it has the mental benefit of reminding us that we have the power to unravel ourselves in all kinds of unhealthy situations.

Lion Pose (Simhasana)

Sometimes this asana is called, “Roaring Lion Pose.” For many people, the lion is a favorite Yoga pose. You can perform it silently, but I like to be loud and roar. Sitting with spine straight in Thunderbolt Posture, hands on knees, come slightly forward, roaring and exhaling the lungs completely, while opening the eyes wide (rolled back) and opening the mouth as wide as possible, protruding the tongue out and down as far as it will go.

Hold this position on the exhale for as long as possible (6 seconds) keeping the body tense the whole time. Relax and return to the upright thunderbolt position; breathe normally. Repeat.

This asana tones the muscles of the throat and face, bringing fresh blood and new vigor to those areas. In addition, the psychological effect of this pose cannot be underestimated. It is playful, bringing lightness to the mind when overburdened. It is tense, which leads to better relaxation upon release. It is loud and therefore self-expressive, discouraging shyness.

Sanjeev Patel is a certified Yoga teacher and an exclusive author for Aura Wellness Center in Attleboro, Massachusetts.

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/

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Hatha Yoga for Personal Growth and Empowerment

2009-04-18T14:06:00.000-07:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

In Yoga, many students consult their teacher, Guru, or Swami for general advice. These consultations are not always related to Yoga. For the student, the problem is finding reliable advice. He or she listens to the teacher for knowledge and helpful advice. Where can you find concrete advice?

Advice, in and of itself, is a form of connecting personal opinions, personal belief systems, and personal values into a recommendation. Therefore, if you obtain the advice of another, it is his or her personal opinion.

In some ways, each of us would like to resign decision- making to some one else. We want someone, who has all the answers to the riddles of the universe, but we want to have control over our lives. This creates an internal conflict, as most of us want to establish our independence.

Why do we seek the advice of a Yoga teacher, Guru, or Swami? A Guru is a person who is regarded as having great wisdom or knowledge, and uses it to guide others. A Swami is one who knows and is master of herself/himself. In general, these are usually, but not always, Hindu titles of deep respect.

If we think in terms of personal growth, and empowerment, how does one become the knower of herself/himself? To become the master of oneself requires daily regimentation. What you eat, what you read, your daily physical exercise, the time you spend meditating, and much more, are strictly controlled by you. This type of lifestyle requires absolute self-discipline.

Yet, let’s be honest – how many people will ever be able to control themselves at all times? The answer is: Very few. All is not lost if we change, what we can, gradually. To sustain a lifestyle change, requires some planning and to learn to forgive oneself for making mistakes.

Therefore, if you plan to make a big change, start with a few smaller changes, which lead to your eventual goal. For many students of Yoga, they do not see a big change unless they look back in time. The reason is: They started practicing Yoga, adopted healthy habits, and eventually realized the rewards of small steps forward.

To suddenly change everything, all at once, is a shock to your entire being. This is like eating meat and refined “junk food” all your life; then suddenly eating raw vegetables, whole grains, and fresh fruit. The usual result of sudden changes is that we change back to what we were before. To make permanent changes, we must take a moderate and gradual approach.

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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 Therapy For Chronic Back Pain - The First Step Toward Relief

2009-01-31T16:27:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

When considering Yoga therapy for chronic back pain, you should have the endorsement of your physician or medical specialist. Reducing the back pain in your life can be a team effort. It is important to realize that many forms of therapy work well in harmony with medicine and each other.

In the case of Yoga therapy for back pain, one should feel a reduction in pain, but this does not mean you should discard your prescriptions, or the advice of your doctors. Most people, who constantly suffer from back pain, try medical or chiropractic solutions, prescriptions, and a variety of physical or alternative therapies.

After trying a variety of solutions, most people tend to continue with anything that helps them manage, or eliminate, pain. With that said, Yoga therapy sessions, or Yoga classes, are often part of a larger solution for pain management; and in some cases, the complete elimination of back pain.

Does this mean that every Yoga teacher has solutions for backaches and serious back pain? No, because there are a variety of Yoga styles, and many of them address mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Mental, emotional, and spiritual health are important in any healing process, but you want to be sure treatment of the physical body is included in your Yoga therapy.

A smaller, but very popular, group of Yoga styles are off shoots of Hatha Yoga (union by physical mastery). Does this mean that Hatha Yoga is purely physical in nature? No, because depending on the teacher and the sub-style, Hatha also covers mental, emotional, and spiritual health, in various degrees. The variation among Hatha Yoga's sub-styles covers a wide spectrum of knowledge and approaches toward health.

From the Hatha style, modern Yoga therapy has sprung. Among the therapeutic Yoga systems are: Viniyoga, Iyengar Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and other forms of Yoga therapy. This short list is where a person in chronic pain should begin to seek pain management solutions.

This will also require an extensive search for the right teacher, school, or Yoga therapist. The right teacher, or therapist, is knowledgeable, competent, gentle, understanding, and has time for you. You can easily make an assessment in one consultation, private session, or over the phone.
Generally speaking, Yoga schools do not have group therapy sessions for the same ailment.

There may be a specialized workshop for back pain, but these are rare. Therefore, it would be wise to schedule a private Yoga session with the most qualified teacher or therapist you can find.

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga.

He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at:

Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/

He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit:

http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/member-offer.html

Yoga Therapy for Chronic Back Pain – The First Step Toward Relief

2008-12-06T14:46:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

A smaller, but very popular, group of Yoga styles are off shoots of Hatha Yoga (union by physical mastery). Does this mean that Hatha Yoga is purely physical in nature? No, because depending on the teacher and the sub-style, Hatha also covers mental, emotional, and spiritual health, in various degrees. The variation among Hatha Yoga’s sub-styles covers a wide spectrum of knowledge and approaches toward health.

There may be a specialized workshop for back pain, but these are rare. Therefore, it would be wise to schedule a private Yoga session with the most qualified teacher or therapist you can find.

——————————————–

Introduction to Yoga Therapy

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Yoga Classes in Attleboro, Massachusetts:

http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/

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Office Yoga - Practice Yoga in Your Office

2008-11-25T18:09:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Office Yoga can improve health and productivity. Constant sitting is not healthy for your circulation or for the skeletal structure. Most of us know that excessive sitting can cause poor circulation in the legs and blood clotting.

Yet, many people do not realize excessive sitting can cause piriformis muscle syndrome (a leading cause of sciatica). Some common long-term problems from sitting too much are neck pain, shoulder pain, and chronic joint pain.

Most office workers feel spinal pain in the back, or neck, as a result of prolonged work at computer stations. This can result in absenteeism, as office help takes time to do anything else, but sitting.

If you look around the average office, it is not hard to find signs of over-stretched and weak back muscles from leaning forward. This also results in posture problems we refer to as dowager's hump, the upper thoracic hump, hunch back (kyphosis), and forward head (hyperkyphotic) posture.

Only a few decades ago, these spinal problems were not so commonly seen among younger office workers, because children had more active physical lives. These days, it is not uncommon for a child to come home and do his or her homework on a laptop or PC.

With nearly two decades of an inactive lifestyle, and poor posture, young adults enter the work force to continue unhealthy diet and posture, which will go unnoticed until they experience chronic pain. The solution is to develop office Yoga programs during the course of a day.

The quickest, and least expensive way, to make this change is to bring in qualified Yoga instructors, who can assess daily posture problems and make recommendations for viable solutions. The primary concern here is proper posture and physical activity.

The choices are simple: Compare the cost of higher health insurance, absenteeism, workers' compensation, and temporary disability, to the cost of an independent contractor. Whether a company is large, or small, the advice a competent Yoga teacher will deliver is cost effective solutions for long-term health.

Alternative solutions are the difference between a company's economic survival and going out of business. With rising energy costs, companies are forced to think "outside the box." How many commercial building owners knew or cared about solar shingles, just a few years ago?

The rising cost of labor is much more than an hourly wage. If companies truly see their employees as an asset, office Yoga can raise the level of morale and create a healthier work force. It is up to employers to find less expensive solutions to existing problems or suffer the consequences.

© Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/

He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/member-offer.html

Teaching Hatha Yoga - Bhastrika, Kapalbhati, and the Fainting Game

2008-11-08T06:17:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Recently, a conversation arose about the dangers of prolonged and forceful Pranayama (Yogic breathing techniques). A friend, and colleague, was discussing pushing the limits of Bhastrika and Kapalbhati to the point of neuron damage, within the brain.

It is true that some Yoga teachers and students are unaware of the dangers of prolonged Bhastrika and Kapalbhati. These two Pranayama techniques are classified as hyper-ventilation. If this means nothing, the short example below will open your awareness to the potential hazards.

When I was a child growing up in the United States, my family moved around the country quite a bit. It was not uncommon for children to play fainting or “passing out” games by practicing hyper-ventilation for prolonged periods of time, until they fainted, which is proven to result in neuron damage within the brain.

Children do foolish things. Luckily, we tired of those games and moved on to less dangerous games. Bhastrika and Kapalbhati are therapeutic when performed in moderation; however, there is a “dark side” of forcing these intense methods beyond the maximum limits.

The dark side is to get brain damage from overdoing something that appears harmless. So, what are the limits of Bhastrika and Kapalbhati? In the case of Bhastrika and Kapalbhati, there is a 10 minute maximum time limit, per day, and per technique, for advanced practitioners, of these two forms of Pranayama.

For healthy beginners, it is better to break up their Bhastrika and Kapalbhati practice into one or two minute segments - with the understanding that 10 minutes total is the absolute limit.
However, some Yoga teachers will tell healthy beginners to stop at five minutes; just to be sure they are not tempted to push their natural limits. If a student begins to feel light headed, he, or she, should take a rest. This is not a contest. For most beginners, we start at one minute, and no more.

Later, we gradually build up the time to 3 or 4 minute segments. It is safer to add one minute segments, with a rest in between the segments. For seniors, in good health, we start at 30 seconds and no more. Later, we gradually build up to one minute, only.

Apparently, the ancient Yogis made a few mistakes along the way, and lost a few practitioners, as a result of overdoing it. I personally love Bhastrika and Kapalbhati, but much like the ocean, these two forms of Pranayama deserve respect.

To make it crystal clear: The path of moderation, which is also known as the “Middle Way,” is the safest of all the paths. In Yoga, and in life, there should never be extremes, even when our egos are tempted to push the maximum limits.

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Yoga Instructor Certification

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Yoga Classes in Attleboro, Massachusetts: http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com/

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Yoga Instructor Certification - How To Become A Certified Yoga Instructor At Home

2008-05-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

Written By Karina Sinclair

In recent times yoga instructor certification has become more important than ever. In the past registration was usually enough because the practice and teaching of yoga was not as mainstream as it is today. However nowadays not being certified puts a yoga teacher at serious risk of costly lawsuits and unable to obtain liability insurance at all.

The Major Reason For Certification

The major reason for becoming certified is for a teacher's legal protection. There has unfortunately been an increase in lawsuits against teachers as a result of student injuries that usually could have been avoided with proper training and instruction.

While one's first impression of yoga is that it is a relaxing, spiritual exercise it can actually be quite vigorous, especially for people who are just starting out or seniors.

Why Injuries Usually Occur

Unfortunately if students have not stretched adequately enough before the lesson or have done a move incorrectly inadvertent injury may occur.

How being certified will help you is that it will be a lot easier for you to obtain liability insurance. Liability insurance is not something that should ever be overlooked, no matter how experienced you think you may be or how safe and gentle you believe your class is.

Get To Know Every Student

A student questionnaire is highly recommended because it is essential as their teacher that you understand every student's overall health, medical conditions, fitness level and general history.
Teachers who have been teaching for an extended period of time may not have had any kind of certification available to them. That's why it's essential even the most seasoned trainers ensure that their are covered.

On a positive note, if you are a professional teacher you may be able to receive some sort of credit or recognition for your past experience and your training already undertaken.

The Minimum Certification Requirement

There is a minimum requirement and that's 200 hours of study. What must be included in any course you undertake is virtually every facet of running a yoga business including anatomy, physiology, safety, modifications and contraindications.

Additional Benefits

You will find it easier to obtain work if you are certified. In fact, some studios for their own protection consider it a hiring requirement.

Yoga instructor certification is now easier than ever with the range of certification home study courses. To save you time I have spent hours researching the range of instructor certification courses available and have announced my number one choice at my yoga training website.

Yoga Master With 5000 Hours Of Training Under His Belt Teaches Future Yoga Instructors How They Can Earn $150.00 Per Hour As A Professional Yoga Instructor And Be Certified Within Just 3 Months In His World Class Yoga Teacher Training Course Online.

Start your certification today at http://www.yogainstructorscoursecertification.com/

Kapalbhati, The 10 Minute Yoga

2008-05-22T05:17:00.000-07:00

Written By Shalini Singh

Kapalbhati is one of the best yoga techniques that have been given to us by sages of India. It is a gift to humanity. The idea is simple, breathe in normally and exhale forcibly allowing the stomach to collapse. Do it for 10 minutes and feel the difference within days.

Kapalbhati is one of my favorite pranayamas. Kapalbhati is a subcategory of Pranayama that comes in the 3rd chapter of "Pantajali Yogdarshan". Amongst the several Pranayamic exercises and techniques; Kapalbhati is noteworthy as Kapalbhati is an exercise the practice of which imparts glow to the skull; a cleansing process which brightens the forehead. Kapalbhati is a pranayama technique which invigorates the entire brain and awakens the dormant centers that are responsible for subtle perception.

Although performing kapalbhati is basically quite straight forward, it is important that it is performed correctly in order to obtain the best results. It includes breathing slowly as usual and then forcing the breath outside. A major effect of kapalbhati is to increase air pressure in short bursts in the nasal pharynx and sinuses, which stimulates the forward part of the brain.

However, if both nostrils are blocked, Kapalbhati cannot be done. The technique uses short and strong forceful exhalations while inhalation happens automatically.

Kapalbhati is theretofore a highly energizing abdominal breathing exercise as it causes the stomach to collapse as the exhalations are forced. Kapalbhati is a highly energizing abdominal breathing exercise. Kapalbhati could be done as fast as two strokes in a second. Kapalbhati is the one major yogic breathing technique capable of expelling toxins from the lungs. Though kapalbhati is usually done sitting down, it can be practiced standing up.

This pranayama technique actually invigorates the brain and cleanses the mind. I think Kapalbhati is the one that helps me most. Baba Ramdev is a great proponent of the Kapalbhati and suggests at least 10-15 minutes a day to get rewards.

S. Singh is great fan of Baba Ramdev and has been following his yoga for several years specially Kapalbhati.

The Yoga Mat and Other Yoga Props

2008-05-18T14:36:00.000-07:00

Written By Sarah Russell

If you're just beginning your yoga practice, don't be frustrated if you aren't as strong or as flexible as the more advanced students. This type of flexibility is developed over time with continued yoga practice. If you're having trouble completing some of the poses, consider using props to help you reach the correct position. Using yoga props helps support the muscles and minimize strain so that you can continue practicing without injuring yourself.

Yoga props can also help elderly people and those with medical ailments to exceed their limitations, providing support and enabling them to perform the poses they would not normal be able to do. Of course, you don't need to invest in any expensive equipment to practice yoga - you can do it naked in your living room without any fancy gear. However, if you're just getting started, these props can make your yoga practice much more enjoyable and rewarding.

Mats: The yoga mat is one of the most important yoga props. Yoga mats are also called sticky mats - and that's what they do! When used on a hard floor surface, the mat will stay in place, giving you the traction you need to perform the poses. Even when you start to get sweaty, your hands and feet won't slip. The mat also gives your knees a little cushion when you're kneeling on a hard surface.

Mats aren't expensive - you can pick up a good one for under $30 and it'll last a long time. If you're just starting at a gym, they'll probably have some that you can borrow. However, out of hygienic concerns, get your own and bring it with you. You don't know who used that mat before you!

Blankets: Some studios will provide blankets for students to use during practice. If you're having trouble performing some seated poses, you can fold them up and sit on them, changing the angle of the pose and improving alignment. They're also great for covering yourself up during the final corpse pose - you'll be so much more relaxed when you're warm and toasty under your blanket.

Straps and Blocks: Yoga straps and blocks are also handy tools to have when you're just starting out. Both can be used to modify poses to make them easier if you aren't that flexible yet. If you're taking an introductory class, ask the teacher to help you use them throughout the class. He or she will be able to recommend the best way to modify poses with these props.

Attire: You might not think of your workout clothes as props, but what you wear can have a huge impact on how well you practice. You don't need to invest in a certain brand or specific article of clothing, but you should make sure that your attire is comfortable and breathable. Women, also consider a form-fitted top for yoga practice. Sometimes your head ends up lower than your hips which can cause your top to slide down.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell's new book - The Beginner's Guide to Yoga and Meditation - at:
http://www.mind-body-connection.com/

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Attleboro Yoga / Pilates Schedule

Ending: June 26, 2008

Holidays: May 26, 2008 - Memorial Day - There will be no class on this day.

Spring Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

Wednesday: 6 PM - 7 PM Pilates / Body Sculpt

Thursday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Friday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

Hatha Yoga Benefits

2008-05-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

Written By Sarah Russell

Hatha Yoga is descended from a 5,000 year old system of movements and meditations meant to improve the health of the body, mind, and spirit. It's made up primarily of a series of stretching exercises known as asanas, combined with breathing techniques and methods of concentration. You're probably familiar with the classic Lotus position, which is one of the basic meditative positions in Hatha Yoga.

The main goal of Hatha Yoga is much the same as other forms of yoga practice. It attempts to blend the spirit of the individual with the greater spirit of the universe, improving the health of the spirit, mind, body and emotions. Hatha Yoga has been said to help practitioners attain inner peace and a feeling of oneness with the universe. Remember that no matter what type of yoga you choose to perform, concentration is a very important factor.

All types of yoga have some similarities. However, they differ in methods or intent in other areas. Hatha Yoga's main focus is the preparation of the body, so that the spirit will be able to perform its function in bringing the practitioner to enlightenment. A great deal of confusion can arise, as many people don't realize that it's important to have a healthy, fit body in order to successfully attain spiritual enlightenment.

Hatha Yoga practice is applied to the body in order to strengthen it and the spirit inside. Its physical techniques are often used by people who aren't interested in spiritual advancement, but who would like to receive the physical benefits of Hatha Yoga as well. This is the most commonly taught form of yoga, and is thus the type that comes to most people's minds when yoga is mentioned. Other styles of yoga, some of which are derived from Hatha Yoga, include Kundalini, Bikram, Ashtanga, and Power Yoga.

In addition to the physical benefits of Hatha Yoga, there are also mental ones. It's been said to assist in the development of greater concentration and focusing abilities, in addition to reducing stress and anxiety. For many people, this is an important benefit, and something they need in their lives. If you're being distracted and need some time to relax, Hatha Yoga might be the right solution.

For those who are looking for a spiritual benefit, Hatha Yoga allows you to find your own divine light. It can help you become stronger, more flexible, and more relaxed. Performing Hatha Yoga allows the energy of your spirit to flow more freely, since the mind, spirit, and body are more closely in harmony. If your body is weakened, this weakness also affects the mind and spirit. Skeptical? Consider how hard it is to concentrate when you have a headache.

Practicing Hatha Yoga can help you cope with stress, and can relieve some of your tension and pain. If work is leaving you exhausted, you need to find time to relax and rejuvenate yourself. Hatha Yoga is an excellent remedy, that can help you release built up worries and anxiety.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell's new book - The Beginner's Guide to Yoga and Meditation - at:
http://www.mind-body-connection.com/

Understanding Yoga Techniques

2008-05-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

Written By Sarah Russell

If you're practicing yoga, understanding and applying techniques properly is very important. Yoga can be an important part of an overall campaign to improve your health, since exercise is a big part of preventing disease and staying healthy.

It's one of the most effective methods, since it puts little strain on the body, and provides many other health benefits. It's also easy to practice yoga wherever you are, since it requires no special equipment. You can do it at home or away, at whatever time you choose. Many people prefer yoga as their method for living a healthy, happy life.

Yoga can help you maintain good internal health, including good circulation, healthy organs, glands and other tissues, as well as providing strength and flexibility to muscles, connective tissue and joints. It's also been said to help relieve stress and improve concentration. Many people also use yoga as a way to attain spiritual fulfillment.

There are plenty of yoga techniques available. However, there are a few that are very effective, no matter where you are or when you'd like to practice. Here are five basic yoga techniques that form the foundation of many others. They are: relaxation, posture, meditation, joint movement, and deep breathing. Every technique performs its own function in concert with the others, to produce the desired effect.

In Sanskrit, the movement of the joints is referred to as "sandhichalana". This yoga technique, as the name implies, focuses on the joints, which undergo full movements. It's important to remember that this applies to all joints, from the hands to the neck and lower limbs.

Relaxation is composed of a number of other yoga techniques to help you improve your concentration, allowing you to focus your attention more effectively. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety. For instance, the Hong-Sau is a technique meant to help focus your latent powers of concentration, and to develop your Divine Consciousness. The familiar Aum technique uses simple repetitive sounds to expand awareness beyond the body's limitations. It can help you stay in a meditative state for longer periods, and is said to open the practitioner to experiences of the Divine.

Remember that not all yoga techniques are suitable for the beginner. If you're just starting out, you may have trouble with some advanced poses. Talk to your instructor, or try modifying them to make them easier to do. Be sure to stay aware of your body, and figure out what feels right and what makes you feel tense or in pain. Try to release tension, and allow calm relaxation to take over.

Remember that one of the main objectives of yoga is creating a satisfying feeling of relaxation. It's important to find out how to effectively release your tension, allowing you to feel better and to be healthier. The help of a good yoga instructor can help you do this more effectively, and with less trial and error. Then, once you've mastered the basic yoga techniques, you'll have no problem going on to practice on your own.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell's new book - The Beginner's Guide to Yoga and Meditation - at:

http://www.mind-body-connection.com/

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Attleboro Yoga / Pilates Schedule

Yoga & Pilates - Spring Session (2008)

Ending: June 26, 2008

Holidays: May 26, 2008 - Memorial Day - There will be no class on this day.

Spring Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

Wednesday: 6 PM - 7 PM Pilates / Body Sculpt

Thursday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Friday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

Yoga Types - Which One is Right for You?

2008-05-14T04:24:00.000-07:00

Written By Sarah Russell

With all the different types of yoga in existence today, choosing the right one can be hard for a beginner. It's important to choose the variety of yoga that's right for you in terms of fitness level, your spiritual and physical goals, and you health. Here are a few of the most common types of yoga to help you pick the best one for you and your situation.

Iyengar Yoga: This type of yoga focuses on precise movement and the alignment of the body. It often uses straps, blocks, and other props to help less flexible beginners perform the same movements as experts. These items can also help people with injuries adapt movements to their individual bodies. This allows everyone to perform yoga poses with comfort.

This type of yoga pays a lot of attention to detail, but poses are flexible and can be modified, making it a good choice for people who suffer from neck or back pain. Adjusting the poses can also help people with other injuries. Iyengar Yoga is a good choice if you'd like to get a good basic knowledge of classic yoga poses, giving you the fundamental for other types of yoga later on.

Teachers of Iyengar yoga are likely to focus on inner awareness and alignment. Inner awareness begins with the body, but then moves to other parts of ourselves as we continue with practice on a regular basis.

Ashtanga Yoga: This type of yoga has also been referred to as "power yoga". This is because flowing, powerful movements are a big focus of this discipline. Lunges, pushups, and other stamina- and strength-focused movements that aren't usually associated with yoga may be involved. People who are looking for a more challenging practice, or are looking to build strength after overcoming injuries, particularly to the back, may wish to practice this type of yoga.

If you're already fairly athletic, but want to add more balance to your routine than running, cycling, or working at the gym can provide, Ashtanga Yoga may help you. It can help you improve your concentration, and build muscles you don't normally use.

Bikram Yoga: This yoga type is also called hot yoga. This is because its chief feature is being performed in an extremely warm room. Heat can help tissues to stretch, making this kind of yoga a good tool for increasing your flexibility. However, if you have a heart problem or other cardiovascular disease, the warmth of the room in which Bikram Yoga is performed can be dangerous, because it places extra strain on this system.

Viniyoga: This type of yoga links breathing and flowing movements into individually adapted exercises. If you have a back problem or neck injury, this variety of yoga might be a good fit, as it's easily adapted to each person.

Raja Yoga: Designed to liberate the mind through meditation, this type of yoga works well for people who are interested in engaging in intense concentration.

Bhakti Yoga: A form of devotional yoga, this practice focuses on the surrender of the self in the face of the divine.

Mantra Yoga: Known also as the "yoga of potent sound", this practice focuses on the liberation of the mind via the repetition of sounds which have power. "Om" is the most familiar, but other mantras include "ram" and "hum".

There are plenty of different types of yoga to pick from. Before you join a class, talk to your teacher and find out his or her philosophy of yoga and beliefs on the subject. This will help you decide if the type of yoga is a good fit for you.

Want to learn more about how yoga can change your life? Check out Sarah Russell's new book - The Beginner's Guide to Yoga and Meditation - at:

http://www.mind-body-connection.com/

Yoga Mat - All You Should Know About A Yoga Mat

2008-05-13T03:36:00.000-07:00

Written By Bertil Hjert

When practicing yoga, you need to make certain investments. These investments would do a lot for your flawless performance, benefits that you obtain from performing various asanas and overall health.

One of the most important investments you require to make even before you start off with your program of doing yoga is purchasing a yoga mat. This is one of the most crucial investments you need to make.

A) The mat is beneficial to you in the following aspects:

a) It prevents you from falling and provides you good amount of grip.

b) It provides you safety and it lets you perform all the asanas without any difficulty.

c) It allows you to stay away from sweat and the distraction caused by sweat while performing yoga.

d) A yoga mat provides good support for your back when you lie down.

e) The yoga mat lets you perform all your asanas just the way you should.

B) There are several things you need to consider prior to purchasing a yoga mat. This will make sure that you have made the best possible deal:

a) Learn

Try to gain sound knowledge on different types of yoga mats available. You need to know what material these are made of, what each mat specializes in and how they differ from each other.

b) Research

In order to get the best deal, you need to do a little bit of homework on your side. Try to make a good research on various shops selling yoga mats, the quality they deal in and prices each dealer offers you. Compare and then make a choice.

c) Comfort level

When choosing yoga mat you must see your comfort level. Check out whether your height and width fit well into the mat you are planning to purchase. The yoga mat should be able to provide proper grip and lay flat on the ground. Don't buy if it sticks to your feet when you lie down.

d) Allergies

Latex yoga mats are very popular and most commonly used. However, if you are allergic to latex products, simply stay away from it.

e) Don't fall for cheap options

Don't purchase a yoga mat just because it offers you good amount of discounts. Purchase a yoga mat only if it fulfills all your needs and specific yogic requirements.

f) Ask your instructor

If you are learning yoga from an instructor, ask him to provide superb tips for purchasing a yoga mat. He would be the best person to provide you great suggestions.

g) Look for these basic points

Make sure that you look for the basic points when purchasing a yoga mat.

1. Health and environment safe

2. Durability and comfortability

3. Accepted by your teacher

4. Non-slippery and light and easy to roll up

h) Tests

Here are some tests that would prove useful for you when purchasing a yoga mat.

a) The Quarter test

The edge of a quarter will tell you a lot about its durability. The more the strokes, the longer will be the life of yoga mat.

b) The wet friction test

Just wet your hands and bear down laterally on the mat surface. This will let you compare wet traction.

c) The pinch test

Just pinch the mat between thumb and forefinger and you will come o know about compression resistance.

For more Articles, News, Information, Advice, and Resources about YOGA and MEDITATION please visit YOGA TIPS and MEDITATIONBUZZ

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Attleboro Yoga / Pilates Schedule

Yoga & Pilates - Spring Session (2008)

(37 Available Classes)

Beginning: April 2, 2008

Ending: June 26, 2008

Holidays: May 26, 2008 - Memorial Day - There will be no class on this day.

The Spring Yoga / Pilates Session starts on April 2, 2008.

Spring Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

Wednesday: 6 PM - 7 PM Pilates / Body Sculpt

Thursday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Friday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

30 Classes = $240

20 Classes = $180

10 Classes = $ 97

Walk-in Rate: $15

On-Site Yoga Teacher Training - Attleboro, MA

2008-05-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

(For distance yoga teacher training click here)

The Aura Yoga Teacher Training is currently in progress at our Attleboro, MA facility, located at 21 Park Street, Suite 202, in downtown Attleboro.

Experienced Yoga teachers, Yoga teacher interns, and serious students, may attend any Yoga teacher workshops (see schedule).
Fall 2008 - Spring 2009

Our next Yoga teacher training camp begins on September 5, 2008. Candidates should have, at least, two years of steady training in Aura's Restorative Hatha Yoga Style or comparable training within a similar style. Restorative Yoga is a gentle style that fits the needs of everyone.

Client safety is our number one concern.

We meet the 200 hour Yoga Teacher requirements, and contact hour guidelines, set by Yoga Alliance. The teacher trainer is Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500.

Yoga Teacher Training classes meet on Fridays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You should make a commitment to be at all of the teacher training classes and go through an internship. Level I Yoga teacher training is based on 200 hours of intensive study within the many aspects of Hatha Yoga.

Some flexibility can be built into your Yoga Teacher internship, based upon hours with your mentor and teaching Yoga classes. We will cover this on orientation night or you can call ahead.

Telephone 508-222-0092.

This Yoga certification program includes hands-on development with Paul Jerard, the director of Yoga teacher training, independent research, and the home-study of teacher texts. We adhere to the International standards for Yoga teacher training hours.

All Yoga teacher training sessions are held with Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500.

Technical Training, Features, and Course Benefits

Eighteen (18) intensive sessions
Eighteen (18) more hands-on classes to develop your teaching skills

Guidance during your internship
Practical Exam
Written Exam
Syllabus
Kriyas
Asanas
Modifications for Asanas
Yoga philosophy & Yoga Teaching Methodology
Assisting with Asana alignment
Working with special populations
Chair Yoga & Office Yoga
Yoga for Seniors & Yoga as Therapy
Using Yoga Props
The Pilates Connection to Yoga
Yoga Teaching Tips
Yoga Business Development
Yoga Teacher Marketing
Networking with Yoga Teachers
Anatomy
Kinesiology
Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga
Communication with Yoga Students
Chakras
Bandhas
Mudras
Yamas, Niyamas, and Yoga Sutras
Pranayama Methods
Meditation Methods
Relaxation Techniques
Yoga teacher Ethics
Benefits of Teacher's Training
Continued Technical Support
Certification
AURA Teachers Training Materials worth $497.00
Three Foundational Yoga Teacher Training Texts
Free Liability Insurance for classes you teach at AURA
Job placement, as it becomes available
Many more Free Yoga Teacher Handouts
Business & Marketing Materials

In 2007: This training was sold out by July.

Total Cost (Due at Time of Registration):

Early Bird Pre-registration by June 1, 2008 for only: $2000
Pre-register by July 1, 2008 for only: $2100
Pre-register by August 1, 2008 for only: $2200
If any space is available, at the door: $2300.

Installment plan will be scheduled as follows:

$600 down payment
$600 due October 7, 2008
$600 due November 7, 2008
$600 due December 7, 2008

To receive an application, to attend your Teacher Training Course, please Email us.

This is the most reasonably priced, and comprehensive Yoga Teacher Training Program, in the Southeastern New England area.

Space is limited to 12 candidates.

Can I Lose Weight with Yoga?

2008-05-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Written By Angela Blake

Yoga has many benefits. A regular program of yoga can help keep your spine supple, your core strong, and help you maintain balance and poise. It also tones your muscles, helps strengthen your immune system, and boosts your metabolism. However, yoga alone cannot help you lose large amounts of weight. It is, however, a good idea to add it to any healthy living plan.

Yoga will help you feel better about yourself and is a great confidence booster. Many find yoga is an island of calm in an otherwise hectic world. While not all yoga is aerobic, there are some types of yoga that can substitute for aerobic activity. Using yoga to lose weight all depends on the type you do and how frequently you do it. You should opt to engage in 90 minutes of aerobic style yoga three or more times per week, and if you add in another style of yoga the remaining days per week you can gain all the benefits of most other types of physical activity such as weight or strength training and flexibility.

In order to lose weight and keep it off you need to effect lasting changes in your lifestyle permanently. Doing this requires incorporating 5 key elements into your lifestyle. These are adequate rest, drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, proper types of exercise, and caring for yourself emotionally. Yoga can help with the exercise and emotional elements. So what is yoga?

Hatha Yoga: Exercise for the Mind & Spirit

Yoga is based on eight principles as a study of all religions. It is not of itself a religion. One of the eight studies deals with physical training and keeping the body in good working order. When people in the west think about yoga, it is the branch of Hatha Yoga they have in mind.

Hatha Yoga itself has many branches or types of physical training systems developed over many years that are all based on the same physical postures or poses. Here are just a few:

• Hatha: while this is the yoga branch that deals with physical yoga, here in the west a class that is called Hatha generally means it will be slow and gentle and thus provide a good introduction for beginners to learn the yoga poses.

• Vinyasa: this may also be called sun salutations or breath-synchronized movement. It is just slightly more vigorous than Hatha. Some places use this as a warm up before other more vigorous types of yoga begin.

• Ashtanga & Power Yoga: Ashtanga means eight limbs and is based on the whole philosophy of yoga. It is a very fast paced type of yoga that is always performed in the same order. It flows and moved without pauses. Power yoga is usually based on Ashtanga, but not always, though it usually is the inspiration for power yoga.

• Iyengar: this is based on the teachings of Yogi B.K.S. Iyengar which is based on an emphasis of body alignment. Precise alignment is effective to maximize benefits and avoid injury. In this type of exercise you usually hold each pose over long periods of time rather than moving quickly form one to the next. You usually will use props such as blankets, blocks, and straps.

• Kundalini: this emphasizes breath in conjunction with movement. Combining movement with controlled breath is meant to move and free energy within the chakras or body systems. This type of yoga can be very helpful to encourage regulation with the digestion and adrenal systems.

• Bikram or Hot Yoga: be prepared to spend time in a hot room that is usually around 95 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This type of yoga is useful for detoxing though profuse sweating and loosening tight muscles. The original Bikram was based on 26 poses. But not all classes follow this.

• Anusara: this relatively new style of yoga founded in 1977 by a man named John Friend combines physical alignment with positive energy derived from tantra. The philosophy here is the goodness of all beings. Props are also often used in this class which is generally open to people of all levels of fitness and abilities.

• Jivanukti: David life and Sharon Gannon founded this style in New York at one of the most elite Yoga Studios. It is inspired by Ashtanga and strongly emphasizes chanting, meditation, and spirituality. Most teachers of yoga in the United States have been trained by them.

• Forrest: Originated by Anna Forrest in California and is based on vigorous Asana poses. It is designed to strengthen, purify, release, and heal the body and promote healing form within both physically and emotionally. You can expect intense aerobic exercise that helps develop your core and expand your breathing ability.

• Integral: based on the teachings of Yogi Sri Swami Sachinananda who came to the US in the 1960's. He founded many Institutes that use gentle Hatha practice along with chanting and mediation. You can find books also based on this such as Richard Hittlemans 28 day exercise plan which help newbie's and beginners to receive maximum benefits and results through daily practice in their first month.

Yoga is generally based on 5 general principles Proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking. By incorporating aerobic Yoga or other aerobic exercise for 90 minutes per session 3 or more times per week along with yoga on most other days per week in to your exercise plan you can expect to see results n your first 4 to 6 weeks.

The trick is to stick with it and make a real effort for consistency. Yoga along with rest, water, sleep, and other lifestyle changes can help you lose weight and keep it off. Just remember to perform it daily and follow along with a book, video, or audio material if you opt to do it at home, especially if you are a beginner.

Yoga works by stimulating the adrenal systems and helping to clear out your lymph and immune system of toxins. The release of pent up energy, the effects of the calmness yoga emphasizes, and by performing both aerobic and stretching, Hatha type yoga, you can get you strength, flexibility, and aerobic exercise all jut by practicing the different types of yoga styles.

You will firm and tone muscles, burn calories, and boost your immune system and metabolism. Other effects are long lasting, such as calmness, poise, and balance. Most yogis know that regular yoga produces a glow and vibrant energy that tends to draw like minded people to you. (Anyone who practices yoga regularly is considered a yogi.)

If you have ever wanted to lose weight you may have found the wide array of methods and ideologies confusing. You may have wondered if you could lose it by dieting, pills, exercise, or other drastic measure alone. The answer is no! Losing weight takes a determined effort, willingness and patience, and the process of trying and combining methods to achieve what works best for you personally. In addition to lifestyle habits, dietary changes, and following the 5 key principles of a good lifestyle, yoga can help you achieve your goals.

Angela Blake is owner of http://www.weight-loss-discovery.com and is a mother of two who is on a mission to lose weight in a healthy way while educating others along the way.

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Attleboro Yoga / Pilates Schedule

Yoga & Pilates - Spring Session (2008)

(37 Available Classes)

Beginning: April 2, 2008
Ending: June 26, 2008

Holidays: May 26, 2008 - Memorial Day - There will be no class on this day.
The Spring Yoga / Pilates Session starts on April 2, 2008.

Spring Class Schedule:

Monday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Tuesday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only
Wednesday: 6 PM - 7 PM Pilates / Body Sculpt
Thursday: 6 PM - 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga
Friday: Private Sessions by Appointment Only

30 Classes = $240
20 Classes = $180
10 Classes = $ 97
Walk-in Rate: $15

Yoga in the News

2007-12-29T04:44:00.000-08:00

Collection Plate

Houston Chronicle - United States
Zen and yoga: The Houston Zen Center, 1244 Heights Blvd., will host a weekend workshop that brings together two spiritual streams, Zen meditation and yoga.

Just Chillin’ With Snoop Dogg: A Rapper’s Blend of Offspring and ...
New York Times - United States
He tries yoga, works at becoming a soccer dad and even does light housekeeping. But his gangsta outlook is intact. Sprawled out on the yoga mat, ...

Studies show Yoga has multiple benefits

Reuters India - Mumbai, India
By C. Vidyashankar, MD CHANNAI, India (Reuters Health) - Yoga induces a feeling of well-being in healthy people, and can reverse the clinical and ...

The Yoga Fitness Center

New West - Missoula, MT, USA
The Yoga Fitness Center sits at the far end of downtown Missoula, just before the town’s main north-south street dead ends into railroad tracks. ...

Fitness trends for 2008

Dallas Morning News - Dallas, TX, USA
More people are going to choose small boutique fitness centers, including pilates and yoga studios. Expect more classes based on childhood experiences, ...

Consider everything when choosing a gym

Dallas Morning News - Dallas, TX, USA
And they didn't charge extra for yoga or Pilates. That was really a big plus, and that's hard to find. I really wanted to try yoga, but I didn't want to pay ...

Yoga enthusiasts told: Know your own limitsNZ Herald Auckland Metro - Auckland,New ZealandBy Errol Kiong Yoga - that system of gentle stretches and meditations - was cited in 843 injury claims received by the Accident Compensation Corporation in ...See all stories on this topic

Guest speaker on yoga coming in mid-March

Ridgecrest Daily Independent - Ridgecrest, CA, USA
Very early in life, his deep spiritual interests found expression in Yoga. While still very young, he began to study at a deeper level Quantum Mechanics, ...See all stories on this topic

Yoga class offered at REC

Newport News Times - Newport, OR, USA
Olivia Schroeder will be teaching a new yoga class called Flow Yoga on Fridays, beginning Jan. 4 from 5:30 pm to 7 pm This yoga class is designed for all ...

Family Yoga & Dance at Enso

Coastsider News - San Mateo, CA, USA
Ages 3 months to 4 years old: Mondays 11- 11:45am (followed by a gentle yoga class for adults at noon, with childcare). Ages 5 -11 years: Mondays 3:30-5pm. ...

India Yoga meditation tours

India is a land that is known for Yoga and meditation for thousands of years. In fact, Yoga owes its origin to India and is one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy. Yoga is a vibrant living tradition not only in India but also across ...

Yoga has multiple benefits: study

Yoga induces a feeling of well-being in healthy people, and can reverse the clinical and biochemical changes associated with metabolic syndrome, according to results of studies from Sweden and India. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of ...

Basic Yoga Exercise

If you take the wide range of basic yoga poses it can help you attain a high level of self-awareness, strength and balance. The seven primary types of movements that your body can make through basic yoga exercises are extension, ...

Know The Different Types Of Yoga

By Phillip Longmire
I have to admit that my first experience with Yoga was not a good one. I actually thought it would be a bunch of crazy ohms, and stretching with no real benefit. That is until I did p90x yoga. It not only challenged me but had me ...

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Yoga Myth - Advanced Physical Prowess

2007-11-14T16:30:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard

There are many myths which surround Yoga. Most of them are circulated by people who have never practiced Yoga of any kind. Yet, there are some myths about Yoga, which have been accepted as fact, by Yoga practitioners. It is difficult to shatter an "urban legend, but let's look at one of them.

"An advanced Yogi can perform amazing postures and feats of physical prowess."

While this can be true, and Hatha Yoga practice can lead to physical mastery, feats of physical prowess can be performed by young people, who never practiced any form of Yoga before. Please bear in mind that there are many forms of Yoga, which are not based upon physical exercise.

Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga, are primary forms of Yoga, which have advanced practitioners, who do not have to perform physical feats to be known as "advanced." Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, was an advanced Karma Yogi, who inspired non-violent civil rights movements within India, and around the world.

The flaw in all of this "labeling" of Yoga practitioners as advanced, intermediate, and beginner, stems from the idea that Yoga is a physical exercise. Pilates and weight lifting are physical exercise systems, and they require a mental presence in their practice. All forms of Yoga require a mental, physical, and spiritual presence in the practice.

Hatha Yoga (union by physical mastery) does not represent all forms of Yoga. If Hatha Yoga were the only style in existence, it still would require teachers with experience and deep knowledge on a vast subject.

Any child can perform amazing athletic feats of flexibility, but would you place your absolute faith in the ability of a child to teach you Hatha Yoga? Would you be concerned about your safety, your physical limits, and the teacher's experience level?

"Experience" is a keyword, because experience is what really separates the advanced Yoga practitioner from the rest. An experienced Hatha Yoga teacher will guide you through the many aspects of Yoga, such as: Asana, Meditation, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha, Yama, Niyama, and much more.

If you are practicing in a Hatha Yoga class, which contains postures, but does not contain meditation or Pranayama, you are probably practicing "Yoga Fitness." There is a saying: "Half a loaf is better than none." This has never been truer than it is in the case of Hatha Yoga's exposure to the world.

It may take generations before Yoga practitioners stop to read the Hatha Yoga Pradipika by Swami Swatmarama. The Yoga Sutras, by Maharshi Patanjali, also deserve more contemporary attention. At this time, there are many Yoga books to read, but the classics are worthy of note, and should be "required reading" for advanced Yoga practitioners.

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA.

http://www.riyoga.com/

He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit:

http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

2007-05-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

The Purpose of Yoga – Motivation for Better Health

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Yoga, in all of its forms, creates positive energy. Positive energy will cause you to become successful, and live a life where powerful visions become reality. Your complete health will improve exponentially, as a result of regular Yoga practice.

Yoga has so many good health aspects for a person to benefit from. Yet, some people see it only as a “workout,” and as a result, Yoga has become classified, in the west, as an exercise. Although Hatha, Kundalini, and Raja Yoga contain many breathing exercises (Pranayama) and postures (Asanas), Yoga is not merely another physical exercise system.

Hatha Yoga is the most popular form of Yoga outside India. Hatha Yoga is also known as the unity of mind, body, and spirit, through physical mastery. The initial results of regimented Hatha Yoga practice are physical fitness, motivation, clear thought, and increased energy.

There are many more benefits from long-term Hatha Yoga practice. If I could make a “Hatha Yoga Pill,” I would be a billionaire! When some people hear the words, “physical fitness,” they think of torture, so they avoid Yoga of any kind.

Yet, the masses will gladly spend billions of dollars on ineffective, over the counter drugs, fad diet products, ineffective exercise gadgets, and life endangering pills, to try to manage their body weight.

So, a Hatha Yoga pill, with no side effects, would “sell like hot cakes.”

However, the Hatha Yoga pill is only part of my imagination and the dream of “couch potatoes.” Yet, couch potatoes do not have to worry because Yoga is not physical fitness, but it is complete health on the physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional planes of existence.

The benefit of motivation from Yoga practice is what makes Yoga so different from all other health maintenance systems. Yoga can become a lifestyle because there is no torture.

Why do most diets fail? Why do most exercisers quit? Lack of motivation is the reason for diet and exercise failure. People already know they should eat better, walk more, exercise, and drink more water, but they need to maintain their level of motivation, without “burning out.”

In Yoga practice, positive energy is all around the classroom. Positive energy creates motivation and creates powerful visions of success. The next step is to believe the powerful visions of success, which you see.

Some people have a fear of success. Maybe they inherently feel a lack of self-worth, but Yoga also works on improving this aspect of life. It is normal for people to feel apprehensive about change, but change is often one of the gateways to success.

Lastly, regular Hatha Yoga practice will lower stress levels, allowing you to sleep better, and feel energized the next morning. No wonder Yoga teachers and students are so full of motivation.

Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes - June Schedule

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Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts of Attleboro,

Below is our June 2007 - Yoga / Pilates Class Schedule:

Each month the Tuesday night class will show case a different class. There will be no Tuesday classes in July.

Monday: 6 PM – 7 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM - Introduction to Yoga on the Ball *

Wednesday: 6 PM – 7 PM Pilates/ Body Sculpt

Thursday: 6 PM – 7:15 PM Beginner / Gentle Yoga

Tuesday Night Classes will become the featured class of the month.

*Starting June 5, 2007, Introduction to Yoga on the Ball, will meet on Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m.
This class will focus on firming the mid-section, toning the body, enhanced coordination, and improving balance.

All Yoga and Pilates Classes at Aura Wellness Center will be closed for the first two weeks of July 2007.

The next Aura Yoga Teacher Training will be held in our Attleboro, MA facility, located at 21 Park Street, Suite 202 in downtown Attleboro.

Orientation night for Yoga teacher training will be Friday, September 7, 2007 at 6:00 p.m.

Aura Wellness Center

21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor

Attleboro, MA 02703
Phone: 508-222-0092
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Attleboro Yoga Lessons: http://www.riyoga.com

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Why Yoga Exercises Are Different From Other Forms Of Exercise

2007-02-14T06:13:00.000-08:00

By Nelly Luprimo

If you are thinking of taking up a form of exercise with the aim of making yourself look and feel much better you should give very serious thought to yoga exercises.

Yoga works holistically on the body and mind and so its positive effects can be seen in many different aspects - on our bodies, their health and how they look, and also on our minds - in how we view the world.

So how do yoga exercises differ from other forms of exercise?

Yoga exercises, also known as asanas or postures, are applied to the entire anatomy of the living body. On the other hand, many other exercise regimes are a form of engineering applied to the muscles of the body. This means that yoga exercises are concerned with more than just the superficial development of muscles. The postures used in yoga exercises tend to normalize the functions of the entire organism.

The advantage of yoga exercises is that they can regulate the involuntary processes of respiration and help the circulation, digestion, elimination, metabolism etc. The yoga exercises also work to affect the working of all the glands and organs, as well as the nervous system and the mind. This result is achieved by doing deep breathing while the body is placed in various postures. Each of these yoga exercises creates a different totality in the functional relationship within the organism.

Hence, yoga is able to influence man physically, mentally, morally and spiritually. Yoga emphasizes the philosophy of exercise. Under its training one experiences a sense of awakening.

All of one's capacities are heightened, and one achieves balance and stamina through these yoga exercises, some of which are modeled after the movements of various animals. In yoga exercises, relaxation is taught as an art, breathing as a science, and mental control of the body as a means of harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit.

The advanced stages of yoga require many years of special preparation-practices. Today's mode of living , its tempo and surroundings, mean that this is difficult to achieve. However, practicing yoga exercises and deep breathing and relaxation techniques, with some of the time devoted to concentration and meditation is something everyone can achieve.

Yoga exercises can have a positive effect on individuals who are suffering from disease or illness. Whilst it is not able to cure these things, practicing yoga can means that obstructions and impurities are removed so that nature can perform its healing work.

So if you are looking for a form of exercise that works positively on the body and mind, and one that is relatively easy to fit into your daily routine then why not take up yoga exercises. The growing popularity of yoga exercises means that you will likely find a yoga center or a gym offering local classes in your area. If, however, you do not have time to attend classes there are many books and dvd's available on yoga exercises, so you can do it at home at a time when it is convenient to you.

Within only a few days of performing yoga exercises it is possible to feel revitalized and stronger. Continued practice of yoga exercises can make us healthier and happier.

Author Nelly Luprimo spreads the message of yoga through her online yoga community - www.blackyogamat.com

Thinking of taking up yoga? Then you should visit Nelly's website by clicking this link ...Yoga Exercises.
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Attleboro Yoga & Pilates Classes - February / March Schedule
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Dear Yoga & Pilates Enthusiasts,

Below is our February / March 2007 - 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

Chakra Workshop is Friday, March 30, 2007 - 6 to 9 p.m.

Aura Wellness Center
21 Park St.Suite 202, 2nd Floor
Attleboro, MA 02703
Phone: 508-222-0092
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Attleboro Yoga Training: http://www.riyoga.com
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How to Become a Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor
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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
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Hatha Yoga’s Attraction for Middle-Aged Students

2007-01-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

Why are more, and more, students, over 40 years of age, discovering Hatha Yoga classes for the first time? What can Hatha Yoga do for a “couch potato?” What can Hatha Yoga offer the active person, who is over 40? Let’s take a closer look at each of these issues for the deeper answers, which Hatha Yoga contains.

There are many styles of Yoga, and Hatha Yoga is just one of the nine main styles from India. Hatha Yoga has many sub-styles, such as: Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Kripalu Yoga, and many more. Before we go too deeply into this subject, please realize that outside of India, the most common form of Yoga is Hatha Yoga.

Why are more students over 40 discovering Hatha Yoga classes for the first time?

Recently, I’ve seen an influx of Yoga students, at our Attleboro Yoga Studio, who have been inactive for decades, but decided to make a “life change” to improve their health. As a result, they become physically active in Hatha Yoga classes and continue to practice their Yoga training at home.

Some of our new Yoga students arrive, due to a physician’s referral, but many have researched Yoga. Their research caused them to make an independent decision to improve their health on a mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional level.

As we approach middle age, body weight is harder to get rid of than it ever was. As a result, this extra weight can bring us many health problems and diseases.

In fact, shedding 10 or 20 pounds of body weight may just extend your life span. Heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, some forms of cancer, and more diseases, prey on those of us who carry extra pounds around.

So, we are not considering living at a nursing home for an extra decade, but increasing our odds to have an active and quality life to the end.

What can Yoga offer the active person, who is over 40?

For those of us who have been exercising for decades, we realize there is a flaw in the “No pain, no gain” theory. Premature joint wear is the biggest problem. For most of us, recognizing the difference between muscular and joint pain comes with age.

Therefore, the new fitness motto for middle age should be, “Work smart, not hard.” This requires a bit of research, as to which style of Yoga is most suited to your body and then finding a compassionate Yoga teacher. One class can tell you if the style is to your liking. As for Yoga teachers: It is easy to recognize a Yoga teacher who is abusive from one who is not.

However, some people are very attracted to a Yoga teacher who will “push them.” Be careful if you fall into this category. A Yoga teacher is not a coach, whose goal is to push you to the next competitive level.

It is fine to have goals in life, but take the time to research your individual needs. Make sure the Yoga teacher, and the Yoga style, you choose will fit into your lifestyle. Yoga’s principles are more about training for longevity than training for a short-term gain.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

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How to Become a Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor
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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/
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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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The Benefits And Joys Of Yoga

2007-01-05T15:04:00.000-08:00

By Peter Curtis

There are a lot of people who are crazy about yoga. The reason why most people do yoga is that it makes them feel better and in shape. The different poses and postures make their body healthy. Yoga for most is the best way to relax and unwind. If you want to keep your body in shape, this might be the best exercise for you. Did you know that yoga is good to fight certain illness that may come? There had been researches which proved that yoga helps you to control anxiety, reduces asthma, arthritis, blood pressure, back pain, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, epilepsy, diabetes, headaches, stress and many more.

Yoga has a lot of benefits and advantages. All in a day’s work, it can reduce tension and stress. Of course after a heavy day, you will feel that your muscles have been stuck up and you will feel wasted. If you do yoga, your self esteem will be higher. It is important to gain more confidence inside and out so that you can face people with no worries. Yoga is good for the body in increasing your muscle tone, strength, stamina and flexibility.

If you are too fat and conscious about your body figure, yoga can help you lower your fat and keep your body in shape. Yoga exercises can burn excess fat and give you the desired figure that you want. If you need time to relax and forget your responsibilities, yoga will be good to improve your concentration and enhance your creativity. Yoga helps you to think more positively away from all anxieties. If you have a fresh mind, you can think of good things and apply it easily.

Your body needs to relax once in a while. Sometimes, work can leave us wasted and exhausted. During the heavy days, we may not find time to unwind because work is still on our tail. Yoga can help you create a sense of calmness and well being.

Yoga exercise helps you improve a good circulation. Your organs and veins need to be exercised for it to function properly. Yoga can help stimulate your immune system and keep you away from diseases. If you have a good immune system, you can be sure that you are free from sickness. Some people do yoga to be enlightened. They believe that yoga will help them bring up their spirit and keep them relieved. Yoga works differently for people be it spiritual, emotional, psychological, mental and physical.

People think that yoga is only for spiritual people. But that belief is wrong. Even if you are not that religious, you can do yoga. You will see and feel the difference at the same time find out how it works for you. Due to the pressure and demands of life, we become stressed out and we forget the essence of life. We tend to lose touch with the ones we used to spend time with, even ourselves. We find ourselves rushing most of the time with the deadlines and hassles we need to keep up with. This leaves us a small time to wander and have that physical awareness. These are the few things that yoga can provide. Once in a while, find time to dedicate a part of it to yourself to relax and unwind which only yoga can give.

Peter Curtis is a full time aerobics instructer in Las Vegas. In his spare time he writes articles andguides for various website and online publications. You can visit one of his website about the Yoga here. http://www.aerobics-exercise.com/Yoga.html

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How to Become a Certified Hatha Yoga Teacher
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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
On-Site Training: http://www.riyoga.com
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-30T13:16:00.000-08:00

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
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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
--------------------------------------------
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 in the News

2006-11-24T05:28:00.000-08:00

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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-22T04:59:00.000-08:00

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

2006-11-19T16:45:00.000-08:00

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.

--------------------------------------------
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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-16T04:49:00.000-08:00

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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-07T21:08:00.000-08:00

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

--------------------------------------------
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

------------------------------------------------------
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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

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 Yoga 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 Hatha Yoga can help anyone find the path of happiness.

Can Yoga really open the gateway to happiness? Absolutely! All forms of Yoga teach meditation and Pranayama. In Hatha Yoga, these concepts sometimes become secondary to Yoga 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

--------------------------------------------
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

------------------------------------------------------

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
--------------------------------------------

2006-11-01T18:39:00.000-08:00

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

2006-10-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

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?

2006-10-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

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/

2006-10-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

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
--------------------------------------------

2006-10-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

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

2006-09-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

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

2006-09-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

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/

2006-09-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Yoga and Back Pain

By Jennifer Jordan

Back pain is a part of many people's lives. From long hours of sitting in a chair staring at a computer to the moments spent lifting up a heavy box to the hours spent toting a three-year old around on a hip, pain often manifests in one of the workhorses of our body: the back. While this sort of pain may simply seem like a load to bear, something with which we all must deal, there are ways of lessening it, getting the proverbial monkey off our back completely.

Many people plagued by back pain have recently turned to yoga, using it as a way to condition their body by the way they think and feel about its relation to their mind and spirit. Yoga moves every joint in your body. You begin to realize where you hold tension in your body and this allows you to let it go. You can actually make changes and live your life in a tension free relaxed manner. Along these lines, pain is sometimes informative. It's your body's way of saying that it's time to change your habits. Yoga encourages us to explore pain, using it as a way to understand our body and habits.

Restorative yoga helps you become aware of and relax chronic tension held in the muscles, for example, muscles along the spine and in the neck and shoulders. Decreased chronic tension can begin to relieve back pain that manifests. A healthy resilient spine distributes weight throughout the whole body. With correct posture, you can help prevent muscular tension in the back and future structural problems, as well as give your internal organs room to function normally.
Conditioning the entire body - especially the legs, back and stomach muscles helps support the back and spine. These muscles bear a lot of the body’s physical load and they are highly conducive to proper posture and correct alignment. Thus, when these muscles are strong and resilient, the support comes from the inside out. A well conditioned body allows it to self-regulate and the pain that once plagued you begins to subside.

In addition to relaxing and strengthening muscles, yoga also elongates them through flexibility. For people with back problems, particularly lower back problems, flexibility is highly important. Stretching and improving the flexibility of a seemingly unrelated muscle, such as the hamstring, decreases the amount of stress placed on the back, ultimately decreasing tension and pain.
But, flexibility doesn’t stop there, flexing its muscles in other aspects. In addition to relieving the stress and tension placed on a person’s back, flexibility also increases circulation, sending nutrients into back muscles and filtering toxins out of them. This nourishes back muscles and muscle tissue, leaving them healthier and more properly armed for pain prevention.

Proper breathing, one of the backbones of yoga, is also essential to quieting back pain. Many times people erroneously perform yoga poses with their breath held, creating stress on their body. This tendency, however, must be broken in order for proper breathing to promote the body’s natural healing potential. Once people have learned to take deep, rhythmic, natural breaths, their body becomes relaxed, freeing them of pain-causing restrictions and facilitating proper circulation. Proper breathing also oxygenates the body, which creates harmony and calm, producing a better balanced being.

Making a commitment to the techniques taught in yoga can help commit our backs to a less painful existence. The practice of yoga is intended to improve a person’s well being not merely for one 75 minute session at a time, but for a lifetime. When a person begins applying the knowledge they learn in yoga class - correct posture and relaxed breathing to all their waking hours - proper body alignment begins to manifest. This, while improving general health, also protects the curvature of the spine, an element that is essential to the decrease in, and prevention of, back pain.

While the ways yoga physically helps a person’s back can be researched, checking out medical journals and highlighting important phrases, only those who practice yoga can fully grasp the way it mentally benefits back pain. One benefit is through the art of self-awareness. Self-awareness helps us to better understand our body’s capabilities, and its limitations. By knowing these, we are far less likely to strain our body in such a way that causes back pain. This is because self-awareness leads to empowerment, empowering us to be proactive in our own pain prevention.

Another way yoga mentally benefits back pain is through the concept of perception. Perception is the way we look at things; it conceptualizes the old “glass half empty or half full” adage. We all recall scraping our knees as children and thinking that it didn’t hurt until we saw our own blood flowing through an open wound. At the sight of this, our perception of the injury worsened and the pain skyrocketed. The perception, alone, fueled the pain. Similarly, when we perceive our back pain with negative thoughts – thoughts of hopelessness and despondency - the pain will undoubtedly worsen.

Yoga, however, is a vehicle of positive thinking. By teaching people to embrace thoughts of gratitude, hope, and encouragement, yoga helps us to alter our perception of things, spinning our perception of pain into a more positive light - a gift actually. This is, ultimately, one of the greatest ways to get pain off our backs for good.

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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Aura Wellness Center has weekly classes for Yoga and Pilates. Aura has relocated 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/

Teaching Hatha Yoga: Is a Hatha Yoga Teacher a Karma Yogi?

2006-09-19T06:20:00.000-07:00

By Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

What is Karma Yoga and what is a Karma Yogi? The word Karma can be defined as action, work, or service. Karma Yoga is often referred to as selfless service or unselfish action. This is work that you do, without any consideration of a reward. Many times, we may consider a religious leader to fit this description.

However, people who seek change for justice, and the common good, are not always religious leaders. Some may have been considered revolutionaries in their time, politicians, public servants, social workers, teachers, or something similar. There is one common thread, beside selfless service; it is the need to contribute to change for the purpose of justice.

So, how could a Hatha Yoga teacher become a Hatha Yogi? Hatha Yoga is union by physical mastery; and in some parts of the world, concern over physical appearance overrides the need to make social changes.

Consumerism, self-gratification, gluttony, and greed, would seem to be the driving forces for people who are physically self-absorbed. It may take generations before consumerism and self-absorption give way to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Unfortunately, this is another example of evolution that we have to wait for. Humankind needs time to “grow up.”

However, when any Hatha Yoga teacher answered the calling to teach Yoga, it was not because of the money. If money is the prime motivating force behind teaching Yoga, this type of Yoga teacher will not last long. There is too much giving of one’s self involved in teaching Yoga.

There are many Yoga teachers who give selfless service to the elderly, to the sick, and to the poor. When a Yoga studio, or an, ashram is profitable, they always give to charities or have fund raisers. All of the Yoga teachers I have met, give to those in need and do not turn their backs on the poor.

Although Karma Yoga, Raja Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga are considered higher spiritual forms of Yoga, Hatha Yoga is a gateway to character improvement. It is not wise for us to classify “superior” forms of Yoga. The fact that a young Yogi, or Yogini, is practicing any form of Yoga is a good start in life.

When any one of us performs the work that calls to him or her, and it benefits humankind, it is a form of Karma Yoga. Your dosha calls to you in diet, exercise, activity, behavior, and in your work. When you follow your true nature, you will find tranquility and harmony in life. A Hatha Yoga teacher should learn if he or she is pitta, vata, or kapha. Then you will understand the strengths and weaknesses of your role in this life.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995.

To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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

2006-08-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

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

2006-08-13T13:53:00.000-07:00

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

Become a Yoga Teacher

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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/
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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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2006-08-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

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 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.

Carina Snowden is a contributing author to Apex Yoga News the leading resource for yoga information. Visit Carina's archive of articles at http://www.apexyoga.com/

Yoga Class in Attleboro, MA

Grand Opening: Aura Wellness Center is Moving to 21 Park Street, Suite 202 in downtown Attleboro, MA. Yoga classes and private lessons start October 2, 2006.

2006-08-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

What Else Should a Hatha Yoga Teacher know about teaching Yoga Classes?

By Paul Jerard

Yoga teacher ethics should be thoroughly covered in all Yoga certification programs. With the current laws about harassment, all Yoga teachers, and anyone who works with the public, should beware. The less said, in your Yoga class about trivial matters, the better.

Just like Yoga teachers often say to their students, “Stay in the moment.” Within your class, “it’s all about Yoga” and anything else beyond that can be open to misinterpretation. Walk the middle path, avoid extremes, show loving kindness, and maintain a standard of professionalism within all of your Yoga classes.

Communication should be clear at all times. You must demonstrate, communicate verbally, and assist, if you have permission to do so. Always ask permission before making a physical assist during Asana practice.

Chakras are the energy centers of the physical and astral body. Yoga teachers know about balancing and cleansing them. Most Yoga teachers are familiar with the seven main Chakras, but there are more. No one should play with “Chakra Awakenings,” with out guidance from a Guru.

Bandhas are the many locks, but Hatha Yoga teachers should know Mulha Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Jalandhara Bandha very well. These are the three main Bandhas.

Mudras are gestures and they are often integrated with specific Pranayama techniques for healing. Not all Mudras are performed with the hands. In Sanskrit Mudra means “seal.” There are many Mudras and learning this is part of a Hatha Yoga teacher’s continuing education.

Kriyas or Shatkarmas are the six hygienic “deeds” or “actions.” A Yoga teacher should be clean in mind, body, and spirit. Every Hatha Yoga teacher is familiar with these six Kriyas.

Meditation is a part of each form of Yoga. It is a tool for clearing, calming, and focusing your mind, but there are also many methods of meditation. Each path of meditation leads to tranquility. All Yoga teachers should practice meditation twice per day. Guiding Yoga students is one thing, but a Yoga teacher’s meditation practice should be regimented.

A Yoga teacher should also be familiar with relaxation methods, specially, stage-by-stage relaxation. This relaxation method should be practiced privately, and Yoga teachers should make their students familiar with this technique.

With all of the above points mentioned, you can now see why the jump from Yoga student to Yoga teacher will take some time and serious practice.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

How to Become a Certified Hatha 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
Attleboro Yoga Site: 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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