...erived of eight branches; yama (control and discipline), niyama (rules, methods and principle), asana (posture), pranayama (focused breathing), prathyahara(avoidance of undesirable action),dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (contemplation). In contrast, most contemporary yoga focuses on postures and uses breath work as a small component or an afterthought. Though admittedly, the current vision of yoga over-emphasizes asana, it is extremely important and has enormous benefits. The medically studied benefits of yoga include the following: Stress reduction, improved muscle strength and tone, increased energy and flexibility, improved balance and coordination and a reduction in depression. . Moving with Compassion

Through most of asana practice, we are unconsciously engaging in physical metaphor. Many yoga postures are named after and imitate the living world; tree pose, eagle pose, frog pose, cat pose. By developing postures that imitate the stance of animals, the vedic seers may have been seeking not only to embrace the qualities of these animals, but to formulate compassion for them. The way that compassion serves as a partner to yogas goal of liberation can be understood through reading the ancient yogic texts. Understand these vedas; whether they be the Rig Veda (knowledge of praise),Yajur-Veda (knowledge of sacrifice), Sama Veda (knowledge of chants), and Atharva-Veda(knowledge of atharvan), is likelier while deep in meditation. Understanding the vedic sutras, we are permitted to experience a bliss unknown through material grasping.

In this state everyday experiences fade away and a greater perspective unfolds. Over time, meditation also allows us to become more intuitive and receptive. This opens us up to others, enhancing our compassionate nature. This experience has been discussed by Eastern sacred-text expert H.P. Blavatskys in The Voice of the Silence. Blavatsky writes: Compassion is no attribute. IT is the LAW of LAWSeternal Harmony, Alayas SELF; a shoreless universal essence, the light of everlasting Right, and fitness of all things, the law of love eternal.

In order to experience compassion for others we must first extend it to ourselves. Straining too forcefully in a pose is counter to compassion. Why? Yoga teaches us that we are all connected, so when we hurt ourselves this pain eventually reaches others. Instead we must strive for gentle self-acceptance, competing...more

Insider Secrets to the business of Teaching Yoga, Part 2

... a sob story. On the other hand, I have learned to point Yoga students toward the office for handling these matters; and I do not take payments for Yoga lessons.

The office, within our Yoga studio, has a job to do and so do I. My job is to teach Yoga classes and mentor Yoga teachers. The Office Administrators job is to see we stay in the Yoga teaching business. Sure, I look at the figures almost daily, but I dont interfere in the operation of a fine-tuned machine.

It wasnt always like this. I was guilty of taking little, or nothing, for teaching Yoga, and ge...more

Yoga as a Cure for Acne

...ng this supine position, along with other aspects of yoga, you may be able to control your acne. Your stress levels will be reduced and your blood circulation increased, both of which contribute to not only glowing skin but a more balanced body on the whole.

There are various other natural ways to help control acne apart from yoga. These include detoxification of the body, home made facial scrubs and washes, protecting skin from the elements and changes in diet.

Acne does not have to be a problem. There is a wide variety of treatments available and there will be a treatment that works for you.<...more

Exercise Stress Relief Relieve Your Stress and Get Healthier

...Exercise can be a quick and easy way to relieve your stress. Using exercise for stress relief has long been found to help you feel better. Exercise releases chemicals called endorphins into your body. These are your body's natural "feel good" chemicals, so starting a regular routine of exercise stress relief will help you in lots of ways.

When the word exercise is mentioned, most people immediately start thinking of visits to the gym, pressing weights and other strenuous ex...more

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