Introduction To Yoga Yoga is a science of right living and it works when integrated in our daily life.

It works on all aspects of the person: the physical, mental, emotional, psychic and spiritual. The word yoga means unity or oneness and is derived from the Sanskrit word yuj which means to join. There are too many misconceptions clouding the science of Yoga. People perceive it to be some kind of black or white magic, sorcery, physical or mental debauchery through which miraculous feats can be performed. For some it is an extremely dangerous practice which should be limited to only those who have renounced the world. Few others think it to be a kind of mental and physical acrobatism that is compatible only to a Hindu mind. The human mind is subject to certain weaknesses which are universal. avidya-wrong notions of the external world, asmita-wrong notions of the external world, asmita-wrong notions of oneself, ragalonging and attachment for sensory objects and affections, dweshad is like and hatred for objects and persons, and abinivesha or the love of life are the five defects of the mind that must be removed. Yoga, the constant meditation and introspection eradicate these mental flaws. We have organised some background information on understanding Yoga better, which dated as far back as 100 years ago. Just click on the links below for the information you are interested to find out. Yoga provides one of the best means of self-improvement and attaining one's full potential. In the advanced stages of yoga, superconscious states are attained which result in a feeling of bliss, deep peace and the emergence of psychic powers. Yoga was developed and perfected over the centuries by philosophers and mystics in India. It is basically a method by which we increase the body's supply of energy and remove any interference to the transmission of energy throughout the body. Yoga has specialized in this subject for thousands of years, and streamlined the methods to attain this aim. These days, yoga classes are being held at most health and wellness centers across the United States. Along with meditation, it is probably one of the most popular alternative therapy. Many physicians, who are skeptical about the efficacy of alternative medicine, support yoga with a passion. There are many clinical studies that show the effectiveness of yoga. And the best part of it is that it is something that can be done in the comfort of your home. A few breathing exercises recommended by yoga will go a long way towards better health and relaxation. A few months ago, I was talking to Rev. Fr. Philip Jacob of Indian Orthodox Church, Detroit, Michigan. The conversation got into alternative medicine and spiritual healing. Rev. Jacob remembered how his father used to practice alternative nostril breathing, a well known yoga pranayama practice, daily. According to his father, one does not have to do any other exercise to maintain health. A few months later, my sister-in-law, Susan Jacob M.D., who is a board certified pediatric allergist, was visiting us from Houston, Texas. She was searching my library for books about yoga. I asked her why she is looking for books on yoga. She replied, "It is very good. I want to start practicing yoga." Apparently, her cardiologist had recommended yoga. My neighbor and friend, Dr. Donti M.D., often attends out of town workshops on yoga to learn better because, "its effectiveness is well proven." Cleveland Clinic, a world renowned hospital in Cleveland, teaches yoga to patients (especially those who are undergoing cardiac rehabilitation.) These are examples of the far reach of yoga, it is popular with doctors, professionals (many of which do it for stress relief and relaxation) and with common people. Practiced for more than 5000 years, yoga is one of the oldest forms of healing therapy. The amazing results of yoga are now being studied by scientists all over the world. Teams of doctors at the various

yogic health centers in India, keep detailed records of patients treated with yoga for diabetes, respiratory ailments, digestive complaints and obesity. Now it is studied and accepted across the globe for its many healing and relaxation effects. The Nature of Yoga Gain a general idea of the subject of Yoga, seeking its place in nature, its own character, its object in human evolution. Schools of Thought Yoga relation to Indian philosophies discussed in this section. As well as the importance of acquainting yourselves sufficiently with Sanskrit language, as in explaining Yoga, one is often at a loss for the English equivalent of the manifold meanings of the Sanskrit tongue. Yoga as Science The two great methods of Yoga, one related to the Self and the other to the NotSelf. Here, we are dealing only with the science of Yoga and not with other means of attaining union with the Divine. The scientific method is one that follows the old Indian conception. The Yoga we are studying specially concerns the Marga of Jnanam or knowledge, and within that way, within that Marga or path of knowledge, we find that three subdivisions occur, as everywhere in nature. Yoga as Practice The lower mind, unruffled, waveless, reflects the higher, as a waveless lake reflects the stars. You will remember the phrase used in the Upanishad, which puts it less technically and scientifically, but more beautifully, and declares that in the quietude of the mind and the tranquility of the senses, a man may behold the majesty of the Self. The method of producing this quietude is what we have now to consider in this section. Why Yoga? Yoga works on the mind and the body at the same time, as well as exploiting their interdependence. No other system does this. Western psychology studies the mind, western exercise physiology studies the effect of exercise on the body, but there is no emphasis on the interrelationship of the mind and the body. Yoga asanas (postures) and breathing deal with the physical body, but due to their effect on the brain, they also affect the mind. All the wonders of modern science will not bring happiness, peace of mind, health or a long life. Although wonders have been achieved in our external environment space travel, computers, etc.our internal environment has been neglected. Thousands of years ago the ancient yogis turned their minds inwards and discovered their true nature. This allowed them to work out a system of body and breathing exercises which results in vitality, rejuvenation and peace of mind. Why not enjoy the benefits of modern science, but also do yoga to enjoy the benefits of vitality, rejuvenation and peace of mind as well? Yes, you can have the cake and eat in too! History The saying, "What's in the past, should stay in the past" - doesn't work here.We might already have an idea of what Yoga is but to understand it better, we have to know what it has become as well as its roots and beginnings. A quick look at the history of Yoga will help us appreciate its rich tradition and who knows, it might help us incorporate Yoga into our lives. Although Yoga is said to be as old as civilization, there is no physical evidence to support this claim. Earliest archaeological evidence of Yoga's existence could be found in stone seals which depict figures of Yoga Poses. The stone seals place Yoga's existence around 3000 B.C. Scholars, however, have a reason to believe that Yoga existed long before that and traced its beginnings in Stone Age Shamanism. Both Shamanism and Yoga have similar characteristics particularly in their efforts to improve the human condition at that

time. Also, they aim to heal community members and the practitioners act as religious mediators. Though we know Yoga as focusing more on the self, it started out as community-oriented before it turned inward. For a better discussion of the history of Yoga, we could divide it into four periods: the Vedic Period, Pre-Classical Period, Classical Period, and Post-Classical Period. Vedic Period The existence of the Vedas marks this period. The Vedas is the sacred scripture of Brahmanism that is the basis of modern-day Hinduism. It is a collection of hymns which praise a divine power. The Vedas contains the oldest known Yogic teachings and as such, teachings found in the Vedas are called Vedic Yoga. This is characterized by rituals and ceremonies that strive to surpass the limitations of the mind. During this time, the Vedic people relied on rishis or dedicated Vedic Yogis to teach them how to live in divine harmony. Rishis were also gifted with the ability to see the ultimate reality through their intensive spiritual practice. It was also during this time that Yogis living in seclusion (in forests) were recorded. Pre-Classical Yoga The creation of the Upanishads marks the Pre-Classical Yoga. The 200 scriptures of the Upanishads (the conclusion of the revealed literature) describe the inner vision of reality resulting from devotion to Brahman. These explain three subjects: the ultimate reality (Brahman), the transcendental self (atman), and the relationship between the two. The Upanishads further explain the teachings of the Vedas. Yoga shares some characteristics not only with Hinduism but also with Buddhism that we can trace in its history. During the sixth century B.C., Buddha started teaching Buddhism, which stresses the importance of Meditation and the practice of physical postures. Siddharta Gautama, the first Buddhist to study Yoga, achieved enlightenment at the age of 35. Later, around 500 B.C., the Bhagavad-Gita or Lord's Song was created and this is currently the oldest known Yoga scripture. It is devoted entirely to Yoga and has confirmed that it has been an old practice for some time. However, it doesn't point to a specific time wherein Yoga could have started. The central point to the Gita is that - to be alive means to be active and in order to avoid difficulties in our lives and in others, our actions have to benign and have to exceed our egos. Just as the Upanishads further the Vedas, the Gita builds on and incorporates the doctrines found in the Upanishads. In the Gita, three facets must be brought together in our lifestyle: Bhakti or loving devotion, Jnana which is knowledge or contemplation, and Karma which is about selfless actions. The Gita then tried to unify Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Karma Yoga and it is because of this that it has gained importance. The Gita was a conversation between Prince Arjuna and God-man Krishna and it basically stresses the importance of opposing evil. Classical Period The Classical Period is marked by another creation - the Yoga Sutra. Written by Patanjali around the second century, it was an attempt to define and standardize Classical Yoga. It is composed of 195 aphorisms or sutras (from the Sanskrit word which means thread) that expound upon the Raja Yoga and its underlying principle, Patanjali's Eightfold path of Yoga (also called Eight Limbs of Classical Yoga). These are: Yama, which means social restraints or ethical values; Niyama, which is personal observance of purity, tolerance, and study; Asanas or physical exercises; Pranayama, which means breath control or regulation; Pratyahara or sense withdrawal in preparation for Meditation; Dharana, which is about concentration; Dhyana, which means Meditation; and Samadhi, which means ecstasy. Patanjali believed that each individual is a composite of matter (prakriti) and spirit (purusha). He further believed that the two must be separated in order to cleanse the spirit - a stark contrast to Vedic and Pre-Classical Yoga that signify the union of body and spirit. Patanjali's concept was dominant for

some centuries that some Yogis focused exclusively on Meditation and neglected their Asanas. It was only later that the belief of the body as a temple was rekindled and attention to the importance of the Asana was revived. This time, Yogis attempted to use Yoga techniques to change the body and make it immortal. Post-Classical Yoga At this point, we see a proliferation of literature as well as the practice of Yoga. Post-classical Yoga differs from the first three since its focus is more on the present. It no longer strives to liberate a person from reality but rather teaches one to accept it and live at the moment. Yoga was introduced in the West during the early 19th century. It was first studied as part of Eastern Philosophy and began as a movement for health and vegetarianism around the 1930's. By the 1960's, there was an influx of Indian teachers who expounded on Yoga. One of them was Maharishi Mahesh, the Yogi who popularized Transcendental Meditation. Another one is a prominent Yoga Guru Swami Sivananda. Sivananda was a doctor in Malaysia and he later opened schools in America and Europe. The most prominent of his works is his modified Five Principles of Yoga which are: Savasana or proper relaxation; Asanas or proper exercise; Pranayama or proper breathing; Proper diet; and Dhyana or positive thinking and Meditation Benefits Yoga is one of the most effective strategies to gain total control over the mind as well as the body of a person. Yoga is not a recently developed technique and the benefits of yoga have retained its popularity among people even now. The literature shows that yoga has a tradition of thousands of years, which was originally developed in India. Yoga can be compared with a holistic system of medicine as it focuses to attribute total control over the physical, mental and spiritual aspect of a person. However in the beginning stages, yoga was not recognized in the West as a potential system of therapy due to the suspicion about its efficiency. But the scene gradually changed as the scientific evidences supported the benefits of yoga. Yoga is actually a traditional therapy, which is developed purely based on the observations and principles regarding the constitution of human beings. Yoga is not only an exercise instruction but also a complete package for the total well being. The science of yoga includes yoga postures called as asanas, meditation and breathing techniques called pranayama. The benefits vary with type of yoga as it is advocated in different combinations such as Raja Yoga, Karma Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Hatha Yoga, and Laya Yoga. However, irrespective of its type, the benefits of yoga in the stress management have been substantiated by modern medicine. The multifaceted benefits of yoga promote it more than a simple exercise. The physiological benefits of yoga include the enhancement of all major functional systems of the body such as nervous system, cardiovascular system, endocrine system, respiratory system, musculoskeletal system and excretory system. It will help to improve the co-ordination and balance the body. The biochemical benefits of yoga such as decrease of LDL cholesterol, glucose and catecholamine will help to prevent all the major fatal diseases and triggers the resilience of the body. Moreover yoga balances the weight of the person without losing its strength through the different stretching asanas. Psychological benefits are an appealing factor of yoga, which include the regulation of mood related disorders such as anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. The enhancement of the personal abilities such as learning skills, concentration and memory will also be an added advantage of yoga. The improved social skills and better adaptation with circumstances will also be yet more benefits of yoga. The spiritual benefits of yoga can be the pronouncing effects as the self realization and attainment of the epitome of the consciousness will be the necessity to attain the peace of mind. The command over the thought and breathing will certainly be benefits of practicing yoga.Yoga is a therapy which provides benefits of a balanced body through the practice of effortless dynamic movements or

normalized static movement. The opportunity for the attainment of well being without any strenuous exercise or consumption of any supplements can be considered as the most important benefit of yoga.

Yoga Mind, Body or Spirit

You're at your favorite yoga studio and your yoga practice is just starting. You've chosen your favorite spot in the room and unrolled your yoga mat. The teacher begins instruction and you follow along. You come into your first Downward Dog of the practice. The house is finally quiet and you've seized the opportunity to practice some yoga. You've got some soft New Age-esque music playing in the background and you're moving through some Sun Salutations to get warmed up and into the yoga groove. Do either of these scenarios sound familiar? Or perhaps you're more familiar with a variation on one of these themes. Regardless, I have a question for you -- where is your head at? I happen to think that unrolling your yoga mat and moving your body doesn't necessarily mean that you're practicing yoga. When you're on the mat are you: Thinking about what you're going to be doing after practice Intently listening to the yoga teacher on your DVD, often sneaking peaks at the TV/computer screen Watching the yogi a few mats over from you Trying to please the teacher by thinking about your alignment Moving your body from memory You get the idea. The question is -- if you're doing any or all of those things are you practicing yoga? Since I see yoga as a holistic (think whole person) practice, I'd say no. What's happening with your breath? Is your mind wandering or is it engaged in the practice? Are you feeling your body or simply moving it? Is your breath coordinated with your movement? Often, yoga is seen as more effort than mindful practice. Yogis push themselves through a practice, get a good sweat going or test the limits of their body's flexibility -- that's a good day on the mat. What's happening during that practice though? Is the breath long and even? Is the mind calming and focusing? Is the body feeling strong and comfortable? If not, it might be time to try a different way of practicing. If the practice stays physical, then the benefits of the practice will also remain superficial. I challenge you to practice yoga holistically, which means that you get your mind, body and breath into it. Pay attention to your breath during your practice and let all movement become an extension of the breath. Believe me, when you're coordinating your breath and your movement, your mind will be too engaged to wander. If your practice is only serving your body, ask yourself what would happen if you went deeper. Bringing more presence to your practice could change the whole tone of your practice -- and most likely your life. And this week when you practice yoga, ask yourself where your head is at. Are you on your mat in the moment or are you elsewhere? Is your body moving consciously or automatically? Start paying attention to your breathing and how your breath and movements work together. Welcome to a deeper, more transformative yoga practice.

Importance of Yoga
Yoga is a traditional system of healing for the mind and body. It means union. It is a popular belief that yoga can cleanse your body of toxins and improve muscle tone, as well as help in blood circulation. Yoga was first originated in India, where it still remains a living tradition and is followed as a means to enlightenment. This spiritual practice has been evolving for more than 5,000 years now. In yoga there are many spiritual and physical exercises that are practiced to improve ones health and well being. It is very beneficial for people suffering from anxiety, arthritis, headache, migraine, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and much more.Healthy body and happiness: It is a popular saying that a sound mind could lead to a healthy body. Everybody has the right to be happy. Happiness and peace comes from within. It depends on your thinking and also on your body. Your body's health and your mind are directly related. Only if you have a healthy body will you be free from any physical pain, and your mind will not be disturbed. Without good health you cannot be completely at peace. In yoga various types of meditation are taught, and you are made to concentrate on your inner self. It helps to focus on positive thinking and push all the negative thoughts away. Every disease and sickness is considered nothing more than an imbalance in the natural harmony of the body and mind. Restoring this balance leads to true healing. Yoga has become very popular worldwide. People are seeking for it, as they realize the importance of self-contentment and inner peace. Be it work pressure or health problems, yoga can help you see through it. Following yoga postures, breathing exercises and meditation can relieve you from all pains and troubles. Yoga can also help you to lose weight. It lets you tune in, chill out, and shape up, all at the same time. Health benefits of Yoga:Yoga is said to be beneficial for healing many problems. Some of the benefits of yoga are: . Helps to control anxiety Reduces stress Improves arthritis, back pain, and osteoporosis Relieves asthma Controls blood pressure, diabetes and epilepsy Combats chronic fatigue and depression Cures headaches, heart disease and multiple sclerosis Improves concentration and creativity Improves blood circulation Lowers fat Creates a sense of well being and calm Risks:It is very important to practice yoga under the supervision of an experienced and well-trained trainer; otherwise doing wrong exercises can sometimes worsen your problem and lead to complications. The best time to do yoga is said to be in the morning. Pregnant ladies can also do yoga, as it helps in easy delivery and helps lose weight post pregnancy. Reach your goals:Yoga means to unify all forms of life. It has a holistic approach to all aspects of life - physical, mental and spiritual life. Each person is considered a unique combination of body, mind and soul. It teaches the importance of maintaining harmony between the mind and the body. One can achieve happiness, contentment, liberation and enlightenment from the union with the divine consciousness known as Brahman, or with Atman, the transcendent Self. With yoga, one can achieve these goals.

Yoga practice. There is a increasing trend to practicing Yoga for many different reasons, which include attaining the yoga body or physique, relaxation and peace of mind, or to prevent injury and ailments. The most commonly practiced is Hatha Yoga, which focuses on postures and stretching the body.The word

Yoga means 'union', it is an appropriately descriptive term since yoga's principles are based on the notion that the body and mind cannot and should not be considered as being separate from each other. For hundreds of years Yoga has helped millions maintain flexibility, good health, and a positive outlook. Today, yoga is proving an effective therapy for stress reduction. Most people first come to yoga to alleviate pain and tightness, to acquire flexibility and agility, and to feel more in control of their body.yoga works wonders for: Increasing Flexibility yoga has positions that act upon the various joints of the body including those joints that are never really on the radar screen let alone exercised.Increasing lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons the well-researched yoga positions exercise the different tendons and ligaments of the body.It has been found that the body which may have been quite rigid starts experiencing an amazing flexibility in even those parts which have not been consciously worked on.Massaging Organs of the Body Yoga is perhaps the only form of activity which massages all the internal glands and organs of the body in a thorough manner.Complete Detox By gently stretching muscles and joints as well as massaging the various organs, yoga ensures the optimum blood supply to various parts of the body. This helps in the flushing out of toxins from every nook and cranny as well as providing nourishment up to the last point. This leads to benefits such as the delay of ageing, energy and an amazing zest for life. Fine toning of the muscles Muscles that have become flaccid or weak are stimulated repeatedly to shed excess flab and flaccidity. There simply is no other discipline quite like yoga because it utilized the body, mind and spirit, all in one practice. Yoga is indeed a spiritual path that is based on ancient sacred philosophy, but one does not need to make an ethical decision when practicing yoga, rather finding your own path is wholly accepted. The secrets of yoga are inwardness, concentration, and purification of mind and body with cleansing thoughts and food.

Change Yourself Then the World Gandhi gave us the powerful quote, "Be the change you want to see in the world." I've been taking that to heart quite a bit lately. I suppose you could say that I've a bit disgusted with a lot of what I see happening in the world (both my own little world and globally). Putting things ahead of people Multi-tasking (I'm of the humble opinion that this is an EVIL word and that using this term as a bragging/selling point -- "I'm such an excellent multi-tasker" -- should be outlawed. I think it's much more effective, efficient and rewarding to do ONE thing at a time and be present throughout the task.) The insiduous and deadly advertising/marketing that pervades this society (scary to think that our beliefs/preferences/standards are created by a bunch of care-only-about-the-bottom-line executives -if that ain't a Weapon of Mass Destruction, then I don't know what is) The over-the-top use of cell phones (just this past Saturday I was at a movie and the teen sitting in front of me couldn't last 90-minutes without checking her cell phone -- you can't be out of touch for 90minutes -- SERIOUSLY?!?!?)

The scary everything-is-disposable trend (and this applies to people as well -- when something breaks, we simply buy a new one rather than fixing the old. When we tire of people, we simply dispose of them. Think layoff, divorce, etc.) The fact that drug companies are taking over the world and creating "conditions" so that we buy more drugs (don't even get me started on the fact that we over-medicate ourselves in this society) The whole "no-time" mentality -- I don't have time for my friends, I don't have time for my spouse/partner, I don't have time for my children. (funny, I'm thinking that when you're officially "out of time" that you'll be wishing you spent more time on the things listed here. Of course we conveniently forget this fact and continue to squander our time on the unimportant things like TV.) I could go on here but that doesn't serve anyone. What does change things is changing oneself. It is this very concept that makes my yoga practice indispensible to me. I would willingly sacrifice some things, but my yoga practice isn't one of them. Why? Because my yoga practice gives me perspective. It calms my mind and helps me to see "me" a bit clearer (without that darned ego getting in the way). Then when I approach a situation, I can ask myself what role I'm playing in it. Rather than blame others, I look at myself and think how I could alter my behavior to get a better outcome.

There's a fine line between the selfish, looking out for numero uno mentality and the I'll take care of myself first so that I'll be better able to help others mentality. Of course balance is key here. Again, for balance I look to my yoga practice. Despite my daily yoga practice, I'm faaaar from perfect. But I try. I unroll my mat each day and I practice. I try to be a better person. I try to live by my values (buying organic, recycling, not eating meat, etc.). I try to be the kind of friend I would want to have, the kind of mate I would want to have a relationship with, the kind of worker I would want on my team, the kind of person I think would make this world a better place. I've got my good days and my bad days. Lately, I've been seeing some bad. I've been frustrated and saddened by what I'm seeing going on around me. I've been a bit shaken lately by how little love matters anymore. Apparently, getting your head out of your own little world/drama long enough to show caring for others (people you call your friends, lovers, family) isn't on anyone's agenda anymore (or perhaps it falls behind laundry and watching that new reality show on TV). I'd be lying if I didn't say that I've been entertaining fantasies of escaping the world -- running off to an ashram in a distant land, far, far away from the "real world." Thanks to my yoga practice I have enough clarity to know that, while the idea is quite tempting, it's not the answer.

Just when I start thinking "what's the use," and "why bother," I know the answer -- I can't change the people or the world around me but I can change myself. And that's exactly what I'm going to do. I practice my yoga daily not so I can have a frustrating, sad, and disillusioned existence. I practice so that I can understand that I can be another way. I don't have to be the multi-tasker or the chronic cell phone checker or the mate who puts her own personal interests above the relationship. I can be something bigger, something better, something that perhaps inspires someone else. If one person reading this post makes a change, then I can be happy (regardless of what's going on around me). So when the bottom drops out on me, I can remain steady knowing that change will happen (and continue to happen). And I can instigate that change.

This is why I started this yoga blog -- because I wanted to talk about an amazing vehicle for change. Yoga is BIG and it has amazing power. Of course not everyone sees it that way. And that's okay. Change can be wrought in a number of ways, and although yoga is my personal preference, it's not the only way. This is why I've been championing Oprah's New Earth Webcast. For those of you who have studied yoga and live your yoga, Tolle's book isn't saying anything new. Still, the message rings true (and sometimes you need to hear something time and time again for it to hit home). And I laud anyone who tries to spread that message (and we all know that Oprah can spread around just about anything). I read the first few chapters of A New Earth and I got hooked at page 4. I am intrigued by his comments about ego and perception and I'm going to take tonight's Webcast and the workbook assignment that accompanies it to heart.

Improve Health And Yoga

Yoga exercises and techniques have many benefits, and practitioners often talk about the unification of body, mind and spirit achieved through yoga. The belief that the mind and body are a unified structure is fundamental to yoga, and leads on to the belief that when the body is in harmony, healing can be achieved. These principles, and the many positive results obtained by yoga enthusiasts over the years, has led many doctors to believe that yoga has therapeutic results. Some even recommend it to help cure various illnesses, particularly those related to the nervous system.Many new age therapies have sprung up in recent years, but yoga is not one of them. Yoga has been practiced for thousands of years, and in that time countless numbers of people have benefited from the positive results. A great deal of research has been done into the benefits that can be gained from yoga if it's practiced for an extended period. The benefits of yoga have been classified into three main categories, which are: physiological, psychological and biochemical. Yoga practitioners have regularly observed improvements in all three areas. On the physiological level, practicing yoga for a prolonged period can assist with: Decreasing pulse rate Improving respiratory and blood pressure dysfunctions Normalizing endocrine and gastrointestinal function Stabilizing and maintaining the equilibrium of the nervous system Increasing endurance Increasing joint movement Improved energy levels Increasing cardiovascular efficiency Improved immunity to illness Improved eye-hand coordination Greater dexterity Better sleep Improved depth perception Better reaction times Psychological benefits have been shown to include: Increased kinesthetic and somatic awareness Improved social skills Higher self-acceptance and self-actualization Improved concentration, attention and memory Heightened sense of well being Better moods When to comes to the biochemical benefits, there are instances of substantial decreases in: Glucose Sodium Cholesterol and increases in: Total serum protein Vitamin C

Hemoglobin Yoga has also been shown to be highly effective for musco-skeletal issues, including improved joint flexibility, and better lubrication of joints, tendons and ligaments. Another demonstrated effect of yoga is that benefits are gained from the apparent massaging of all the internal organs and glands that occurs during yoga. Some of these would normally never be stimulated, for example, the prostate. This massaging and stimulation has proven to be beneficial in preventing the onset of disease in these organs. An overall benefit of yoga is the complete detoxification that occurs when these efficient ancient techniques are used for a prolonged period. Yoga exercises stretch the muscles and thoroughly massage the body, ensuring you establish an optimum quantity of blood supply. This eliminates toxins from the body, which helps to slow or even stop certain undesired processes, including aging.All these physical benefits are a wonderful result when practicing yoga, but there's one overriding benefit that is the main reason people continue practicing yoga for years - the harmony and synchronization of body and mind, coupled with the strengthening of your emotional and meditation systems. Heart Heath System

Heart Health System

Heart Health System Seven Common Sense Ayurvedic Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy The statistics are frightening: Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States. Every 20 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack. One in four Americans has some form of heart disease. Every 34 seconds someone in the United States dies of heart disease. Heart disease takes more lives than the next seven leading causes of death combined. Yet, both modern medicine and ayurveda concur that there are things you can do every day to keep your heart healthy. Here we offer some suggestions to get you started. Pick one or two and start with those if you like, then add a couple more every few weeks until you are naturally living a heart-healthy lifestyle. Bonus: Not just your heart, your entire physiology will thank you. Soothe away stress. According to ayurveda, a holistic approach to heart health requires you to nourish the emotional heart as well as the physical heart. The heart is not just a pump-it's the fountainhead of all emotions, whether it's joy and exhilaration or sadness and frustration. Mental and emotional stress can disrupt the emotional heart. Practicing the Transcendental Meditation technique twice daily has been shown in research studies to help in lowering blood pressure, reversing arterial blockage and enhancing resistance to all types of stress. Maharishi Ayurveda herbal supplements Worry Free and Blissful Joy nourish the mind and emotions and contain herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha and Arjuna, all renowned for their positive influence on the mind and emotional heart. Cultivate the positive While warding off excess stress is essential to prevent the emotional heart from wasting away, actively seeking mental and emotional well-being can help the emotional heart flourish. Ayurveda talks about ojas, the substance that maintains life. The finest by-product of digestion and the master coordinator of all activities of mind and body, ojas leads to bliss, contentment, vitality and longevity. Inner strength and poise and the cultivation of positive attitudes and emotions increase ojas. Spend time everyday on those activities that give you this contentment and happiness. Listen to soothing or uplifting music, enjoy serene natural beauty, practice uplifting

aromatherapy and sip relaxing herbal teas. Maintain a positive attitude and walk away from situations that distress or anger you. Eat right Arguably the most critical step you can take towards heart health is to eat a heart-friendly diet. For a society used to fast food and eating-on-the-go, this is also arguably the most difficult step to take and maintain. But there are small things you can do to make your diet more heart-healthy-eat more servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, start your day with stewed apples or pears, include soaked blanched almonds in your diet, dress your veggies with fresh lime juice and eat heart-friendly spices such as fresh-ground black pepper and the antioxidant power-spice turmeric. Choose fresh foods over processed foods or leftovers, light foods over rich, deep-fried ones and warm cooked foods over cold, heavy foods. Eat mindfully How you eat is as important for heart health (and overall health) as what you eat. Eat moderately-the ideal ayurvedic "portion" is what fits in your two cupped palms. Don't skip meals, because eating three meals at regular times each day "trains" your digestion to anticipate and digest your food. Stimulate a sluggish digestion with ginger, salt and lime. Exercise moderately and regularlyYou don't have to do a strenuous workout five times a week. The key is regularity. If you follow the ayurvedic principle of balaardhexercising to half your capacity you can exercise every single day without straining your muscles. Walking is excellent exercise for everyone and excellent therapy as well. The early morning is ideal for taking a 30-minute walk. It will not only help your heart, it will prepare you for the day by charging up your circulation and your metabolism.

Yoga Benefits beyond exercise.

think the answer to the question in the title is an undeniable yes. There is no doubt in my mind that the benefits of practicing yoga regularly go far beyond the benefits of mere exercise. To be sure, the yoga that I practice Vinyasa is fantastic exercise. After practicing regularly for about three months, I was noticeably stronger and more flexible. In a general sense, my body simply felt better. And, while the workout yoga gives you isnt particularly cardio, Vinyasa and Ashtanga yoga do significantly raise your heart rate and quicken your breathing. The age of the words preeminent Ashtanga yogi Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, recently turned 91 speaks to the fact that certain types of yoga, when practiced regularly, can indeed be enough to keep you fit and healthy. And yet theres quite a bit more to yoga than mere exercise. In a word: yoga is moving meditation, and all of the benefits that go along with meditating are accessible to the yogi, whether experienced or not.One of San Franciscos yoga celebrities, Larry Schultz (see previous posting), put it quite succinctly: yoga strengthens and purifies the nervous system so it can reflect a greater degree of consciousness. In my experience, this is very accurate. Our daily lives have evolved to the point where we spend 99% of our waking existence completely oblivious to our own bodies that is, until something goes wrong. Consider a typical white-collar working day: wake up, drive to work, work at computer / attend meetings / etc., drive home, watch TV / read / socialize, go to sleep. There is virtually nothing in this cycle that would draw your attention to your own body (and here I dont mean judgments about your own body, which most of us make all the time, but rather a consciousness of the body, an awareness of how it feels as it receives stimuli from the world). Exercise is, of course, an exception, but most forms of exercise focus on only a few parts of the body, or a few specific movements, and although we feel better afterwards, we are not left feeling significantly closer to our bodies as we are after yoga.It is an inherent truth about emotions that although they exist in the mind, they manifest themselves in the body. If you doubt this, consider how your chest feels after a significant break-up, or how your shoulders feel before, during and after a stressful event. Our emotions show themselves to us in our bodies even when we arent aware of them in our minds. The yogis body is particularly awake and thus the yogi is aware of emotions, as they show themselves through the body, in a way that those who dont practice will have difficulty imagining.It has been claimed that yoga can be beneficial in treating the following psychological ailments: anxiety panic attacks stress attention deficit depression Whether this is the case or not depends largely upon the individual and type of practice. There have been virtually no medical studies conducted on the mental health benefits of yoga. And yet so many of these benefits are so common across the experience of all yogis, from beginners to experts, from those who practice yoga to relax to those who practice yoga to stay fit.If what Ive written so far seems a bit vague, let me explain how these benefits show themselves in my own life and my own practice. Keep in mind that I am a beginner, and have only begun to unlock the secrets of asanas, prana, and the practice of yoga.First off, there are certain poses that demand the utmost of our concentration. These include balancing poses such as tree pose, crow pose, and all varieties of head-, arm-, shoulder- and handstands. In order to achieve these poses, so much of our concentration is required that we are forced to empty our minds entirely of all thoughts and distractions. In effect, these poses bring moments of Zen into our lives without requiring us to sit still in a quiet room for hours on end. If this doesnt yet make sense to you, try standing in tree pose for a moment and notice how the concentration it requires brings peace into your consciousness, even of only for the duration of the pose itself. My second point is best illustrated by a quote from Pete Guinosso, a yoga teacher here in San Francisco of whom I am particularly fond. Without breathing, Pete says at the beginning of his

classes, yoga is nothing more than calisthenics. Whether this is true or not is debatable, but Petes point is that to reap the psychological benefits of yoga, we must incorporate breathing into our practice. Focusing on breathing is the most fundamental technique in almost all forms of meditation. This is because our breathing is always with us, and it is such a part of the background of our lives that focusing on it allows us to exit what Henepola Gunaratana calls monkey mind the incessant flow of thoughts and judgments through our minds. By coordinating our movements with our breath, yoga allows us to reconnect with it, engraining it into the new consciousness we develop of our bodies. This awareness of breathing carries us through our practice, but it also persists off the mat, affording many psychological and physical benefits. As Larry Schultz put it during one of my Rocket classes: surprise, surprise: when the human body breathes, it feels good. Lastly, there is something significant about the repeated experience of holding postures and releasing them (this may apply to certain types of yoga, such as Vinyasa and Ashtanga, but not others). A hold draws our consciousness into whichever part of the body we are using to maintain it. When the hold is over, we feel immense relief, and then we proceed into a new hold, straining a new part of the body, and re-directing our attention to a new locus of tension. This repeated pattern of tension and release is a sort of metaphor for life itself, which is also a series of stresses and tensions, followed by releases and then new tensions and stresses. If you are like me under a constant amount of stress, no matter what environment you are in yoga can train you to be aware not just of the stress you feel, but also of its release when it occurs. In other words, it trains you to expect moments of relief during moments of stress, and to prepare for moments of stress during moments of relief. Thus yoga prepares us for the challenges we face in life by engraining a new consciousness of life into our experience of our bodies.

Yoga To Pick Yourself Up When You're Down Have you ever had one of those days when you feel like...well, you feel yucky. Maybe it's physically or maybe you're in a bad mental or emotional place (perhaps you're throwing yourself a little self-pity party and whining "woe is me."). We all have those down-in-the-dumps moments, hours, days. These past few days I've been a bit under the weather. I'm not feeling myself and I generally have little desire to do anything but lay on the couch. When I'm not feeling well, it's easy for me to slip into negative thinking that only seems to make me feel worse. I get frustrated by the fact that my body isn't well and I start feeling guilty that I'm not doing what needs to be done. Today I decided to take a different approach to the whole sick thing. After waking up this morning feeling worse than I did yesterday, I set an intention to feel better while still being sick. How does one do that, you ask? Baby steps! Rather than set my sights on feeling 100% healthy and back to my normal self, I focused on feeling just a little better. Okay, so being sick stinks. Now what? Well, I could make being sick not so awful by tucking myself on the couch with a cozy blanket and a stack of books that I've been wanting to read. That worked pretty well. After a little reading I was feeling better -- more pampered than sick. From there I decided that I'd increase my feel-good factor by watching an uplifting DVD that I've been longing to watch for the past few days. Sure enough, I started feeling even better. Granted, my physical state was still a bit shakey, but mentally and emotionally I was way better than pity and frustration. Of course I wanted to continue to feel better, so I decided that a little yoga would help (I find that yoga always makes me feel better!). My practice today looked totally different than it normally does -- I practiced in the afternoon instead of the morning and my practice was a mishmash of poses, movements that I don't normally do. I set a firm intention to only do movements that made me feel better and that I would stop if I started to feel badly. Interestingly enough, I did something that I never thought I'd do when I first thought about practicing today -- I broke a sweat. And it felt good. As my

practice progressed I started feeling stronger and now that it's done, I feel relaxed and much more like myself. I may not be miraculously healed, but for the first time in the last 48 hours I feel like I'm on my way. Today's practice ended with one of my favorite Kundalini Kriyas. The movement is simple -- you start standing and then sit down. After sitting, you stand back up. Sounds easy, right? Well, the catch is that you sit down and stand up without using your hands. You rely solely on core strength and leg strength (and mental strength, I might add). I tend to practice this kriya when I'm feeling a bit low or sluggish because it reminds me that I can get myself up -- with my own strength and sheer will. Not only is it a wonderfully symbolic and uplifting move but it's also a great aerobic move (it really gets your heart pumping). So when you're feeling icky, bad, like dog excrement, sick, bummed, whatever, rely on a little pickme-up yoga: 1)Ask yourself -- "What will make me feel better?" You don't have to go for broke here -- you're not looking for a complete 180 degree change. You just want to make a small improvement. Maybe a bath would make you feel a little better. Or an uplifting book. Or some inspirational music. Or a massage. Or some movement (a little yoga a day...). Just think of a little thing that will make you feel a little bit better. 2)Build on it. Now that you're feeling a smidge better, what would make you feel even more so? 3)Try any/all of these yoga poses/movements to get your energy flowing: Stand with your feet hip width apart and bounce up and down (while keeping the soles of your feet planted firmly on the ground). Keep your knees soft and bounce. Now make some sounds everytime your body goes down. Some ha's or ah's or whatever feels "right" to you. Stand in mountain and, on an inhale, raise your arms above your head. By the time your breath ends, your palms should be touching each other. On the exhale, bring your arms back down to your sides. Again, your arms should come to rest near your sides at the end of the exhale. You're coordinating your breath and movement here, which is going to take quite a bit of concentration. Do this about 5-10 times. Spinal twists -- stand with your feet hip width apart and let your arms hang limply at your sides. Twist your body to the right, keeping the position of your feet and legs fixed. As you twist, allow your arms to rotate and entwine your body. Rotate your head as your twist. Then twist to the left, alternating sides as quickly as feels comfortable to you. Body drops -- stand with your feet about shoulder width apart. While keeping your toes and balls of the feet on the ground, move your heels out to the sides a bit. This will spread your sacrum and open up some space in your lower back. On an inhale raise your arms straight out in front of you and up (they stay shoulder-width apart) and on the exhale let your body drop down, hands to the floor. After a few times, add in a "Ha" sound when you exhale. Side bends -- Stand with your feet about hip width apart. On an inhale raise your arms up above your head and bring your palms together. Now intertwine all of your fingers with the exception of your index fingers (your hands are clasped with the exception of your two index fingers which are sticking up). One an exhale bend your body to one side, moving your opposite hip towards the side (if you're moving your body to the right, your left hip will move to the left). On the inhale come back up to center. Do the same on the other side. Repeat about 5 times. Sit in an easy, cross-legged position or in Rock pose (knees bent, sitting on your heels) and do some

head rolls. Very gently roll your head in one direction for a minute or so and then do the same on the other side. Keep your shoulders and jaw relaxed (your mouth might even fall open) while slowly rolling the head. After you've done both directions, move your head in a figure-8 movement. It's like you're tracing a figure-8 pattern with your nose. Move only as fast as feels comfortable for you. Sit down and stand up using only your core and leg strength. Do for 1-2 minutes. Viparita karani -- legs up the wall pose.

Yoga over Medications and Anti-depression

I have been practicing Yoga for close to 5 years now. Prior to this time, my life had been a day-to-day existence erected by symptoms of depression and low self-esteem. Aggravated by marring acne and burdensome Asthma symptoms, not feeling depressed was usually a rare occurrence. A rare occurrence that is; until I discovered Yoga and how it could help with depression treatment.It's not a surprise that I was not alone during this time as research has shown that some form of depression treatment medication is offered to over 20 million Americans annually. However, what should be the main cause of concern are the many side effects common to these anti-depression drugs. Effective as they may be for a while, it's been noted that these depression drugs have several side effects which may include nausea, fatigue, insomnia and some sexual dysfunctions.Thankfully, as with nearly any human ailment, at least in its not fatal stages, drug-free healing is not limited to curing any discomfortincluding depression and this without these side-effects. One standout alternative for depression treatment my friends will be the incomparable Yoga.How is this so? Well, first of all, with Yoga and its gentle movements and poses, Alpha waves (relaxation) and Theta waves (unconscious memory, dreams and emotions) tend to increase significantly after its execution. This finding is based on a Scandinavian study conducted by Eric Hoffman, Ph.D., that measured brain waves before and after a two-hour Yoga class.As a result, you tend to have more contact with your own subconscious and emotions. Moreover, after its use, alpha waves increases in the right temporal region of the brain as other studies have shown that people with depression tend to have more alpha activity in the left frontaltemporal region, while optimistic, extroverted people have more alpha activity on the right.Moreover, with the execution of Yoga, a noted reduction in the hormone known as cortisol and increase in the hormone prolactin occurs--which is believed by many professionals to be the key in producing the anti-depressant effect of electroshock therapy.If this all sounds a bit advanced, perhaps a simpler illustration of how Yoga works effectively for depression treatment may be that it exercises the motor centers of the brain, making the blood flow away from the emotional activity center; consequently one becomes more receptive to positive thoughts.Although this can be accomplished by the use of several Yoga poses, I will narrow the wide array of choices down to three simple yet very effective ones namely the Sun Salutations, Shoulder Stand and Relaxation poses. Depression Treatment: Choice of Yoga Poses for depression help 1. The Sun Salutations:The sun exercises stimulates and balances all systems of the body including the endocrine and nervous systems that have marked effects on our emotions, furthermore they induce deep breathing, which has been known over the ages to help alleviate many a stressful situation. Performed in rounds of 3, they actually are a combination of very simple movements executed in a flowing motion. Although they are usually a warm up to other Yoga poses, they can stand on their own as a Yoga session so you may not have to spend too much time to reap Yoga's benefits as an alternative treatment for depression. 2. The Shoulder- Stand:In spite of what its name may suggest, no worries, this pose is indeed very easy to execute and is the one pose that both old and new Yoga Instructors and writers view as near panacea for most human ailments including depression. It is essentially a very easy inversion pose that I see most kids practicing unknowingly...most of us have at some point, so again, it's really easy. Being that you're inverted, everything is turned upside down, throwing a new light on old behavioral patterns. Working together with its counter poses, you will see for yourself what this pose can do for depression treatment. 3. The Relaxation Pose:Daddy of them all! As the name suggests; it involves lying motionless on one's back with emphasis on deep, even breathing and meditation. It is usually performed for several minutes to alleviate stress and mental tension and positive affirmations such as helpful verses from religious books could be mentally repeated during its execution. Being a Christian myself, one of my favorite verses while executing this pose will be a personalized derivative of Rom 12: 2-"I am being transformed by the renewing of my thoughts." Depression Treatment: Closing Thoughts on Other Factors.No one is saying that Yoga POSES alone will be the end all be all of your depression. No. Poses alone DO NOT constitute Yoga. Breathing exercises (known as pranayama), Meditation, (which could be rooted in your religious or spiritual beliefs) and a proper diet-all being important limbs of Yoga, should be used in your use of Yoga for depression treatment.These limbs will be subjects of other articles to save space; however, for a depression treatment alternative without unwanted and oft times harmful side effects, dare I say drug-free healing using simple Yoga principles and natural methods might be your best bet, it did work for me.So the next time depression sends you to the doctor, you may do well to ask for a new prescription for depression treatment-Yoga. I believe it won't hurt and possibly could help you immensely.

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is a book of 195 separate phrases that are designed to be easy to memorize. Because it is a work that is every bit as much a part of modern yoga as it was a part of the birth of yoga, this particular book is held in very high esteem in the yoga world. Some BackgroundThe origin of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is the topic of some debate among both historians and practitioners. For instance, there are some people out there who credit the writing of this set of sutras to a grammarian named Patanjali. Later, though, a timeline was constructed that showed that to be unlikely. Within the yoga community, though, many say that Patanjali was actually just a compiler and that before the work was written, the Sutras were simply memorized and passed down between teacher and student. Timelines do, though, suggest this text was constructed in about the second century B.C. The name of this text is named using Sanskrit words: yoga, you probably know, is a mindset wherein you are able to gain mastery of feelings and thoughts alike. Sutra literally means thread. This thread is basically the connection between the sutras in the work. In fact, some people call the Patanjali Sutras the Yoga Aphorisms in English. It is not an altogether incorrect loose translation. Understanding the Text The sutras in the text are divided into four books. Fifty one of the sutras are contained in the book called Samadhi Pada, fifty five of them are in Sadhana Pada, fifty five are also in Vibhuti Pada, and thirty four of the sutras can be found in Kaivalya Pada. The book Samadhi Pada contains sutras that are most considered fundamental to yoga. It emphasizes that yoga is about discipline and that it is the ability to master your feelings and thoughts. Many of the most famous yoga sutras come from this particular book.In the Sadhana Pada, there is much about practice since the Sanskrit word sadhana actually does mean practice. This chapter is where Kriya Yoga and the eight limbs of yoga first appear. These aspects reflect the idea that yoga is both selfless and spiritual. The Vibhuti Pada can be translated power. The roles of the sutras in this particular book are to describe and help the yogi to achieve full awareness through yoga. It is essentially about attaining higher levels of awareness of one's self. Finally, the Kaivalya Pada means, again in Sanskrit, isolation. What this book is really about, though, is achieving liberation, according to the principles set within it. Yoga teaches to concentrate on self and attaining higher levels of consciousness, and this book uses 34 sutras to pursue this idea.The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are a staple for many, and describe the ideas upon which the yoga tradition has passed through more recent (from the 2nd century BC), history.

Yoga Vinyasas
When you think about yoga, you likely think first of poses that emphasize self awareness and flexibility. You can, though, link poses in series called yoga vinyasas. In these vinyasas, the poses are done in a free-flowing sequence that adds to your overall yoga experience. While your yoga teacher is trained to create vinyasas for you, there are also certain existing sequences that you can do on your own once you know what poses they involve. Two that are particularly popular in the West are the Sun Salutation and Warrior II. Sun Salutation One of the most popular sequences is known as the Sun Salutation. It is a single flow of 12 different yoga postures. With each, you should inhale to accompany your stretching and exhale as you contract or fold your body in. This particular vinyasas is designed to build your strength and increase your overall flexibility. Like with most vinyasas, you may find variations on this depending on

what style of yoga you are using, but there are a few basic poses and a flow that is fairly consistent among the variations. For the Sun Salutation, you go through the flow twice in order to complete one round. Do it one time for the right side of the body and the other time for your left. If you are crunched for time, still try to do at least one. Even that one half of a sequence will help you to feel revitalized.The sun salutation starts with mountain. From there you go with hands up, head to knees, lunge, plank, and stick. Still flowing, you go into upward dog, downward dog, and lunge. Finally, the sequence finishes with head to knees, hands up, and mountain again. As you can see, the Sun Salutation is naturally circular just as many other yoga sequences are. Warrior II Another popular sequence for yogis in the West is called Triangle, or the Warrior II. This particular vinyasas emphasizes your breathing. Though it is usually recommended to try this moving between positions on the beat of your breath, you can experiment with different breathing patters to see what is best for you and how each affects you. In fact, this ability to freely experiment is what has made this such a popular vinyasas.The sequence for Warrior II works through four poses. You will use Mountain, Triangle, Warrior II and the standing Yoga Mudra. Moving in that order, you will flow through the sequence in time with your breathing. This particular sequence will have a tendency to release stress and help with your flexibility. Be sure, as with all yoga, to pay careful attention to your breathing patterns while staying focused on yourself. Once you begin to learn a number of yoga poses, you can begin to experiment with vinyasas on your own or with a teacher. They allow you to not only work within the poses, but also to maintain both a physical and mental flow when you perform your daily yoga. Additionally, you can find other yoga sequences that suit your skill level, need, and style of yoga. Overall, the vinyasas are a part of yoga that may help you see and feel results more quickly and more consistently.

Things to know about yoga

Yoga in true sense is described as a system that is scientific in nature. It has a spiritual touch and was a practice that originated in India. Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word, Yoke. Yoga provides you with physical and mental peace. Yoga is a pure form of exercising. It requires obedience to its certain rules and principles from your side. Like any other procedure, if these rules are not followed then more harm than good can be caused to you. So if you really want to take benefits from this impeccable exercising type, it is advisable for you to follow its proper methodology. There are certain things that you should keep in mind: 1. Practicing yoga has no particular time. All depends on your convenience. But it is generally said that if you start your day with a good yoga session, your whole day is full of energy. But whatever time you choose, you should stick for that time. Yoga helps only if it is practiced regularly at a regular time. Irregular practice will not give you any good results. Start by practicing 15 minutes and then gradually increase the time period to an hour. 2. After fixing the time, the next important thing that follows is the place where you intend to do it. The place of practicing yoga should be neat and clean. Prefer doing yoga under the open sky. If finding a good open place is not possible for you, then you should opt for a place that it airy. Do not change the place regularly. Stick to place for a long time. Practice it alone if possible. 3.There are some other concerns also involved while practicing yoga. It should be done empty stomach. A stomach full of food won't help. Yoga does help a lot in improving your health, but to get more better results, you should follow a nutritious diet plan. 4. You should practice yoga continuously. Always give yourself some breaks of six to eight seconds between any two asanas. Proper breathing is also very important while practicing yoga. So inhale

enough air. Take enough rest at the completion of a particular asana or session. Of the complete time you spend in practicing yoga, it is advisable to take rest of 1/4th of the time. 5. If you are tired from the excessive physical work that you did the whole day or have any other physical pain, you should avoid doing yoga. Also wear neat and light clothes while going for yoga. It is also advisable for you to avoid taking excessive alcohol, tea or coffee before the session. 6. Another important thing. While practicing yoga try to keep your mind free from any kind of worries and anxiety. Forget your all worries. 7. One note of caution for women. They should not practice yoga while on their menstrual cycle. Pregnant women should also take caution.

Spiritual benefits of Yoga

Yoga is a complex system of therapy formulated in the East and now famous universally. Even though yoga is a comprehensive system which includes different methods such as Karma Yoga, Raja Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Mantra Yoga, the exercise part called yogasana is popular in the West. The yoga practitioners advocate several benefits such as physical, psychological and spiritual, for yoga and the testimonials of many of the followers were supporting their argument. And now the popularity of yoga enhances enormously as the scientific crowd is coming up with substantiating evidences for the benefits of yoga. However the most pronouncing benefit of yoga, which distinguishes it from the other similar therapies, will be its spiritual benefits.The term spiritual benefits may be reviewed by different people with apparent dimensions. Usually spirituality refers to something related with religion or god. However in the perspective of yoga, spirituality is not only dealing with god but also with the soul or inner consciousness. Certainly yoga was related to religions as most of its preachers were sanyasis, the Hindu religious mendicants. However, yoga had a broader perspective and it was considered as the method to reach the inner consciousness. The Hindu believers say that yoga will trigger the energy circles of the body and help to reach the epitome of the energy. The advanced spiritual benefits of yoga include the psychic control, mind control and thought control. The relaxation in the thoughts will help you gain the knowledge. Along with improvement, the flexibility of the attitude of the person will also change. The experiences of yoga practicing people show that they became more compassionate about the surroundings and fellow beings. The control over the thoughts will help to suppress the materialistic pressures of the life. However the ultimate spiritual benefit of yoga will be the self realization. The understanding of self will help assure the healing of the pain of the body as well as the mind.

Yoga and meditation.

Meditation is the one of the most important aspect of yoga. It helps in connecting the body, mind and spirit. Daily yoga meditation helps in mental purification and offers clarity of thought. It increases concentration and focus. Meditation should be done in a clean, peaceful room at a fixed time. Sit cross-legged and keep your spine straight. Sit on the floor, a chair or on the yoga meditation cushion. Meditation Various kinds of meditation techniques are introduced, the individual is encouraged to progress to one kind of meditation which is most suitable to him or her. It was not till the 20th century that a need for the creation of secular forms of popular meditative techniques began to be felt. But for the most part these New Age meditative systems were little more

than rehashed versions of older techniques, which had been extracted from their religious contexts. Transcendental Meditation (TM), as propagated by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, is one such version, which grew out of the Hindu practice of 'naam japa' or 'yoga japa' during the 1960's. Existent techniques of meditation can be categorized under two fairly broad sectionsZen-based forms, which are more "insight"-oriented and Hinduism-based forms, which are largely "concentration"-oriented. Most New Age techniques fall into either of these categories. The kinds of meditation are: 'OM' meditation with breathing 'OM' meditation with heart beats SO - HUM meditation with breathing Ishta Daiva meditation (meditation on personal deity) Vipassana meditation and Kundilini meditation Concentrative meditation focuses the attention on the breath, an image, or a sound (mantra), in order to still the mind and allow a greater awareness and clarity to emerge. The simplest form of concentrative meditation is to sit quietly and focus the attention on the breath. Yoga and meditation practitioners believe that there is a direct correlation between one's breath and one's state of the mind. For example, when a person is anxious, frightened, agitated, or distracted, the breath tends to get shallow, rapid, and uneven. On the other hand, when the mind is calm, focused, and composed, the breath is slow, deep, and regular. Focusing the mind on the continuous rhythm of inhalation and exhalation provides a natural object of meditation. As you focus your awareness on the breath, your mind becomes absorbed in the rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. As a result, your breathing will become slower and deeper, and the mind becomes more tranquil and aware. Transcendental Meditation or yoga nidra (popularized by the Bihar School of Yoga), which owe its origin to ancient Hindu meditative techniques, aim towards a totally detached frame of mind. These forms encourage the practitioner to retreat within the inner-self, into the "real" world, away from the "illusions" (maya) of outside influences. Meditative practices like Mantra yoga, for example, induces the mind to concentrate on a sacred sound by ritualistic chanting, until it attains the trance-like state of samadhi (a state of mind, where it is only responsive to subjective impressions). Yoga is a science of life that originated in India several thousands of years ago. It involves much more than the asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises) that most people are familiar with. For this chapter, however, I will limit my discussion of yoga to those aspects -- asanas and pranayama -- also known as Hatha Yoga.Yoga means "union." In simple terms, we can say union of mind, body, and spirit. There are many more explanations about union, but that could be a separate article. There are also many branches of Yoga and, therefore, many types of union, but competition is far from union. Yoga is enjoying growing popularity in Western countries. Most of you reading this are aware of its use as a powerful stress reduction technique.Several studies have shown that yoga significantly improves the condition of bronchial asthmatics, even patients who were childhood asthmatics. Many subjects eventually reduced or eliminated their need for medicationYoga has been shown to significantly improve mental and physical energy levels and alertness as compared to relaxation exercises and visualization.One study showed that yoga produced and gradual, significant decrease in body weight. In addition there was an increase in alpha wave activity in parts of the brain which corresponds to an increase in patient calmness.

Meditation can strengthen the mind, deepen the relaxation and inner peace that is felt, and change your health and life significantly for the better. At some point in time, I would strongly recommend adding a regular, short meditation period to your routine. So meditation is the practice of being aware of when the mind moves off a chosen point of focus, or another way of saying that, is that meditation is the practice of being aware of when the mind moves out of the present. When the mind moves out of the present and you notice that, you come back to the present by coming back to the anchorSo when we meditate, we choose an anchor and we make an intention to come back to the anchor when we notice that we are off it. We try to stay focused on our anchor but without any attachment to how long we actually do, and we try to notice quickly when we are off the anchor but without any attachment to how quickly we notice. When we happen to notice we are off our anchor, we gently come back. And it is through this process and this mindset, that we are going to get the benefits of meditation. Some benefits of meditation are relaxation, stress reduction, improved decision making and increased appreciation for life. get yoga and meditation therpy for good health by herbal and natural expert. Be assured that your problems will be relieved with our supplements you can make the meditation practice itself a very low stress or non-stress experience because you are not trying to do or achieve anything.Then you take that philosophy out into your life where you choose to. Applying the principle of meditation of focusing on process and not results into your life is called the practice of mindfulnes.

Almost 30 years ago, a small group of hippies wanted to start a commune together so they could "escape" normal American life. They lived in Santa Cruz and had started learning about Yoga. Their teacher was a small Indian man with fire in his eyes and dreadlocks down to his toes. His name was Baba Hari Dass and he came from Northern India. There was one very distinctive thing about this man...he didn't speak...ever! He had taken a vow of silence in 1952 and had not spoken since. He used a small chalkboard hung around his neck to communicate. Babaji also showed them amazing asanas & breathing exercises, shared Yoga philosophy and traditional stories - the Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, the Ramayana, etc., and taught them about Karma Yoga - union through action...or selfless service. So, these hippies had been learning about Yoga from this man and they decided they wanted to hide out in the forest and practice Yoga all the time. The teacher encouraged them to find land to build this commune, and they did. They bought a 355 acre parcel with one tiny building on it and moved in. Now, the teacher had different plans for them...they were not to hide out from the world on the mountaintop. Rather, they would invite people from all walks of life to come to the land and learn Yoga too! Oh no...no hiding? no escape? What had they gotten themselves into? Nearly 30 years later, those same hippies are still there - inviting people from all walks of life to come to the land and learn about Yoga. Sure, most of them have cut their hair, donned American clothes, and some have TVs prominently displayed in their living room, but they are still the same Yoga-loving hippies at heart. The "land" has become a busy place - with over 100 year-round residents, plus about 50 visitors a day, plus between 20 and 400 retreat guests a day, plus 5 dogs, 10 cats, and 2 sheep...there's a lot going on here! There is also a private school, Mount Madonna School, for K - 12 grade that is renowned for it's unique curriculum, successful students, and beautiful campus nestled in the redwoods. The purpose of the land is to "live Yoga". To take it from theory - words on a page, postures, philosophies, ancient stories - to practice - serving healthy food, sweeping the sidewalks, doing the dishes (again!) for thousands of guests, and genuinely caring for each other and every person who visits...this is Real Life Real Yoga.

What to do after Relaxation practices

In the sequence of systematic Yoga Meditation, the surveying of body is followed by breathing practices. The principle is of going from gross to subtle. First, we work with the physical body through stretches or yoga postures. Then, we survey the physical body in the relaxation exercises. Then, we begin the process of turning inward from the physical body by focusing on breathing practices. Then comes meditation itself.
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Complete Relaxation
Complete Relaxation The Complete Relaxation is an excellent practice to do before meditation. It is subtler than the Tense and Release practice above (Body survey is online). Following is one of many versions of this practice: Lie in the corpse posture with your eyes closed. Lie in such a way that your head, neck, and trunk are aligned. You want your spine to be straight, not turned left or right anywhere along the length of the spine. It is most comfortable to be lying on a soft surface, such as a folded blanket placed on top of a rug. To lie in a bed may not give enough support to your back and body. A thin cushion, maybe an inch or two, makes a nice support for your head. Allow the breath to be smooth, slow, and with no noise or pauses. Allow your attention to move through your head and face, including the top of the head, forehead, eyebrows, eyes, cheekbones, and nostrils. Be aware of the breath at the nostrils for several breaths. Continue to survey mouth, jaws and chin. Then survey the neck and throat, shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists, hands, fingers, and fingertips. Feel as though you are inhaling from the tips of the fingers up to the shoulders, and then exhaling back to the finger tips. Do this several times. Then move your attention from the fingers, back through the hands, wrists, lower arms, upper arms, shoulders, upper back and chest. Concentrate at the center of the chest, and exhale and inhale completely several times. Be aware of the stomach, abdomen, lower back, hips, thighs, knees, calves, ankles, feet, and toes. Exhale as if your whole body is exhaling, and inhale as if your whole body is inhaling. As you exhale, let go of all tension, worries, and anxieties. Inhale as if you are inhaling new energy, as well as a sense of peace and relaxation. Exhale and inhale several times. Then move your attention from the toes to the feet, ankles, calves, thighs, knees, hips, lower back, abdomen, stomach and chest. Concentrate at the center of the chest, and exhale and inhale completely several times. Survey the upper back, shoulders, upper arms, lower arms, wrists, hands, fingers, and fingertips. Feel as though you are inhaling from the tips of the fingers up to the shoulders, and then exhaling back to the finger tips. Do this several times. Then move your attention from the fingers, back through the hands, wrists, lower arms, upper arms, shoulders, neck, throat, chin, jaws, mouth, and nostrils. Be aware of the breath at the nostrils for several breaths. Move your attention to the cheekbones, eyes, eyebrows, forehead and the top of the head. For about one minute, allow your attention to be aware of the smooth, slow, serene flow of the breath. Let your mind make a gentle, conscious effort to guide the breath so that it is smooth, calm, deep, and without any noise or jerkiness. Attention and Breathing are two key principles

Two keys: If we explore within, with our attention, particularly in conjunction with breath awareness (which is the grossest aspect of the energy flowing throughout our body), the relaxation comes of its own accord. These two principles or practices, attention and breath, are the key features in the relaxation phase of Yoga Meditation. The importance of attention and breathing in relaxation cannot be overstated. Again, the key principles for relaxation are: Attention to the various aspects of your being Breath awareness These two work together naturally in allowing the relaxation of the physical body, as well as the mind. It is extremely useful for a practitioner of Yoga Meditation to remember these two simple principles.

Why do we call it "Relaxation"? There are many techniques of relaxation being taught in a variety of contexts, including for physical health, stress management, psychological inquiry, as well as spiritual purposes. Many of these methods are extremely useful and serve their practitioners well. However, here we are addressing Yoga Meditation, which is a process of knowing ourselves at all levels, such that we may eventually come to experience ourselves at the deepest level, the center of consciousness that goes by many names. It is a process of surveying inside: It has become common to refer to the surveying of the body and other internal states as a practice of relaxation. Actually, it is more accurate to call it surveying than relaxation, since the actual activity being performed is surveying. Some schools of meditation put their main emphasis on such practice. The practices in Yoga are not merely means of inducing relaxation through an external stimulus or creating internal fantasies, though they are definitely relaxing. Rather, it is a process of surveying, introspecting, or exploring.

Yoga help in Relaxation physically and mentally , Read here

Relaxation Techniques True relaxation is experienced by the body and mind when little or no energy is consumed. It is Nature's way of recharging. Since every action, conscious or unconscious, uses stored energy, relaxation is necessary good health and peace of mind. Without proper relaxation the body and mind become overworked and inefficient. Physical Relaxation Certain forms of exercise increase the body's energy, but this is futile if we continue to waste energy by constantly keeping the muscles in a state of readiness when there is no need to do so. Some people find they have trained their muscles to be so tense that they cannot relax them even at night, creating a constant energy drain. Yoga asanas are a technique for retraining the muscles to be able to relax. People who practice asanas often find that they need less sleep and feel more rested. This is because, when they lie

down, they quickly fall into a sound sleep. Deep sleep rejuvenates body and mind, but light sleep, or the dream state, actually uses energy. Mental Relaxation When the mind is constantly bombarded by stimuli, it becomes overloaded and exhausted. We may be unaware that we are doing it, but by thinking and worrying we are using up tremendous amounts of energy. The tension put on the mind by worries, whether real or imagined, can use more energy than physical work. When worries get out of hand, energy resources are strained. Mental fatigue sets in, often resulting in wear and tear on the physical body as well. It is important to set aside some time each day for the mind to unwind and recoup its energies. Whenever you experience mental tension, try breathing slowly and rhythmically for a few minutes while you concentrate on the breath. Yogic breathing exercises will may take conscious effort, but develop your ability to calm the mind using your own thought power. This leads to an experience of inner peace,with physical relaxation following the mental relaxation. Spiritual Relaxation Complete mental and physical relaxation come only with an inner tuning to a higher source. As long as we identify with this body and mind, we all think we can rely on no-one but ourselves. There will always be tension and worries about the future. Tuning to the divine source brings the realization that all happiness comes from within. Yoga gives the techniques for this inner tuning, enabling us to break down the boundaries that separate us from each other, and from our own Inner Selves.

Is yoga a cure for depression.

Is Yoga a cure for depression? How can Yoga stop you from feeling hopeless? Lets look at how Yoga can help you prevent negative thinking and the resulting damage negative thinking can have on your life.To be honest, Yoga is not a cure fore depression, but Yoga can be an effective solution for some causes of depression. The hard part is to identify the causes of depression.In order to understand yourself, you will have to engage in mindfulness and self-reflection. These are mental exercises to help you find the sources of negative thought within your mind. Mental health is also an aspect of Yoga practice.What are your fears? Do you constantly worry about money, losing your job, a family crisis, or something else? Is this a real problem or a self-created situation?The answers to these questions will enable you to discover real solutions, instead of worrying years off your life. Below are some common negative thoughts and some Yogic solutions for them. Are you a pessimist? Do you envision your life on the bottom of the rock pile? If you envision anything, you can create that image with the power of your mind. Karma Yoga teaches us that any action causes an equal reaction.Why waste your time on pessimism, when you could create positive thoughts and images? Learn from children: They are full of positive energy and not afraid to dream.Get to know your inner child and create your world of positive thought. If you made mistakes So, what?; we all do. Life is full of mistakes, but you can turn each one into a positive thought. Do you always expect perfection? If you expect everything to be perfect, you are killing yourself, and those who love you. This is not a perfect world. What is the cause of your search for perfection? Most of the time, a perfectionist is driven by his or her desires.Consider Aparigraha: This one Yama teaches us not to desire anything more than we need. The true source of perfectionist thought is the desire to have more of something than is realistic.The desire to have everything perfect, in an imperfect world, is a mindless pursuit. When you desire constant perfection, from yourself and others, you are taxing your own health. Holding onto the perception of a perfect world will strain relationships with friends, family, and coworkers. Ultimately, the pursuit of perfection will create a lonely and depressed world without any

friends.Pessimism and perfection are just two of many causes that can result in depression. In both cases, the guidance of a competent Yoga teacher could be a form of preventative medicine.However, if you, or a loved one, is experiencing chronic depression problems, the advice of a competent psychologist, or psychiatrist, should be sought. Yoga is a good alternative form of therapy, but not a cure for depression

Yoga And Sex: Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini Yoga-- This age old yoga practice is quite wary of other ancient religious practices for gaining elevated spiritual state. While most of the religious practices prefer ascetism and sexual abstinence as a way to uplift soul, Kundalini yoga considers carnal indulgence as a medium to increase self exploration. This practice of yoga lays great emphasis on leading a healthy sexual life.Kundalini yoga suggests to feel sex instead of merely performing sex. According to this Yogic philosophy there could no better way to mutual exploration process than act of copulation. This yoga vehemently condemns the widespread connotation that sex is an impediment in attaining higher state of being.Kundalini yoga practice is basically termed as fiery practice as it requires you to be very active. It doesn't help you in gaining increased level of sexual prowess but also contributes to your worldly success by providing you with required mental peace and energy. The concept of kundalini says that spinal sexual energy is potent enough to offer great mental strength and wisdom.The energy associated with kundalini concept is said to be of most powerful kind that flows in an energy canal inside the body that is known as Shushumna. Along with it there exists an additional canal in men and women. In women this additional channel of energy is termed as Pingala while men possess Ida canal of energy. The kudalini suggests male and his female partner to first attain equal level of energy before going for copulation. For that they are first directed to get indulged in various tantric yoga meditations and asanas that help them attain complete rejuvenation as well as higher level of being. And energy gained after undergoing these Tantric Yoga practices happens to be unmatchable. Equipped with incredible energy and elevated physical and mental state a couple could experience optimum sexual pleasure and mutual exploration. The hallmark of kundalini Yoga lies in its philosophy of strong connection between carnal indulgence and spirituality. But many people find it too difficult to get accustomed with refraining from orgasm that is not a preferred kundalini practice. According to the concept avoiding orgasm could result in increased level of kundalini energy in the body. Kundalini's way of masturbation results in great physical and mental relaxation. Like other yoga forms kundalini is also gaining world wide popularity. You can also opt for kundalini for above mentioned advantages, but I would suggest you to take up kundalini practices in consultation with an expert tantra yogi only.

Yoga for good health of Anal and genital organs.

A healthy anal and genital area is of great importance both for the general well-being and for the sexual abilities. The same is true about a healthy respiratory tract and breathing apparatus. Here are presented three poses and three breathing exercises that have the following effects when done together in a series: They stimulate the physiological functions of the genital and anal area. -They correct muscle weakness and anatomical problems of the anal and genital region. -They increase the sexual drive and abilities. -They produce a stimulating response that spreads upwards along the spine and revitalizes the whole body.

-They stimulate the physiological functions of the respiratory tract and help against infections in the airways. -The exercises are very good to start each day with, or to do before going to bed in the night. POSE 1 Stand on your hands and knees upon the floor. Kneel backward so that your buttocks go backward and down towards your feet and stretch your arms foreword. Breathe out and then take a deep breathe in, filling your lungs totally with air. Hold your breath with the air inside. Squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting. Relax your anal muscles completely again. Repeat the squeezing and relaxing 3-5 times, but not so long that you go out of oxygen in your body. Empty your lungs. Rise up on your hands and knees again. Relax a while in this position and then you can repeat the exercise if you wish. POSE 2 Lie on your back upon a carpet on the floor with your arms along your sides and relax. Breathe out. Then breathe inn deeply while relaxing all the muscles you do not need for the breathing. Then breathe out. When breathing out, squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting. After having breathed out, relax your anal muscles again. Repeat the breathing in and breathing out while squeezing 3-8 times, but not some much that you get exhausted. Then relax again. POSE 3 Lie on your back upon a carpet on the floor. Breathe out completely. Swing your arms in an arch over your head and down to the floor over your head so that your whole body is stretched from top to toe. When swinging your arms, take a deep breath filling your lungs totally with air. Hold your breath with the air inside. Squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting. Relax your anal muscles completely again. Repeat the squeezing and relaxing 3-5 times. Swing your arms back at the same time as you empty your lungs. Relax some while and then you can repeat the exercise if you wish. BREATHING EXERCISE 1 Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and the back straight. Empty your lungs completely. Breath in counting to 4. When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles. And then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders. Hold your breath counting to 16. Then breath out counting to 8. When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around your shoulders. BREATHING EXERCISE 2 Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and your back straight. Take 10 rapid deep breathes in and out after another, but not so rapid that you get strained or breath incompletely. When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles. And then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders. When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around your shoulders. After the last in-breath , hold your breath with your lungs filled counting to 10. Then breath out. BREATHING EXERCISE 3 Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and your back straight. Empty your lungs completely. Close your left nostril with the fingers of one of your hands. Breath in through your right nostril counting to 4. When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles and then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders. Hold your breath counting to 16. Then close your right nostril with your fingers. Then breath out through your left nostril counting to 8. When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around

your shoulders. When you have breathed out, repeat the exercise, but this time begin by closing your right nostril first. RELAXING AT THE END OF THE SERIES When the series is done, then lie down upon a carpet on the floor and relax for 2-5 minutes. This relaxation will increase the effects of the exercises and make you recover if the exercises have made you tired. Concentrate upon relaxing your legs first, then your lover body, then your upper body, then your arms and shoulders, and at last your head and face. When the whole body is relaxed, try not to think about anything, and relax your whole body even further. Then lie some time in this relaxed state without thinking about anything.

How Yoga Enhances Sex Life, Read Step by step

The relationship between yoga and exercise is very multi-faceted. First, Blanchard says, people who are in shape tend to have more positive body images than people who don't work out. And if you work out regularly, you have better awareness of your body, which helps you move more sensually. The poses and movements in yoga in particular - will help improve sexual gratification. As proven time and again, health and exercise experts the world over agree that this form of yoga vastly improves sexual prowess and enhances relational intimacy better than any other form of exercise. "The relationship between progressive power yoga and better sex transcends anything you'll read in the kama sutra or try from self-help, 'better sex' books. It combines movement, breath, body awareness and concentration, and then harnesses all your mental and physical energy into your strongest form of sensual power," says Blanchard. "The consistent practice of power yoga means better sex whether you are trying or not." For numerous reasons and the list is long. The ancient practice of yoga integrates into your daily regime: better body awareness positive body image good alignment improved flexibility leading to creative positioning increased libido better breathing stamina stronger spine and pelvis allowing for better pelvic action a clear mind opening you up to receptivity of both your and your partner's physical needs and desires. Yoga poses suggested specific to better sex are the butterfly, camel, the wheel, the bridge, four-limbed posture, and upward facing dog. In fact, Mark highly recommends progressive power yoga as a dynamic workout for couples to do together in the privacy of their home. "Yoga is so sensual on another level when people come together and practice it as a couple," states Mark. "And working out together, assisting in each others postures, breathing each others air, and sharing the intimacy of a workout designed for body and mind can't help but bring people closer together." In ancient times yogis practiced celibacy so that all of their energy could be directed toward spiritual advancement. Makes you wonder: How could these supposedly wise guys have gotten it so wrong? Today yoga lovers are finding that more time on the mat means moreand steamiertime spent reveling in the pleasures of their newly toned bodies without any of those Tantric contortions you may have heard of. To take a walk on yogas carnal side, add these easy moves to your routine. Or just do them by themselves to turn up the heat. Flex Time Is Sex TimeHaving more flexible muscles and joints definitely helps in assuming those compromising positions, and it gives you a greater comfort factor in them as well. Opening your hips in particular gives you a wider range of motion in your nether regions, allowing for more direct stimulation in just the right spots. After all, one micro-movement in missionary is sometimes all it takes to ring the bell. Sex Rx: Bound Angle Pose. In a seated position, bring the soles of your feet together, bring your hands to the ankles, allow your knees to relax toward the floor, and hinge forward at the hips as far as is comfortable. Hold for 10 to 15 complete breaths (inhales and exhales). Yoga sex as it will be discussed on this page refers to how you can improve your sex life through yoga. This discussion does not concern using specific yoga sex positions. Although many of the yoga positions explained on this page, and in our many articles about yoga located at the bottom of this page, can indeed be used to dramatically spice up your sex life! When you improve your spiritual and physical self, through yoga or many other methods, you will without a doubt have a better sex life.

Now contrary to what many people believe, the true yoga practitioners are no more against the pleasures of sex than they are food even though some of the elder sages do live on a lofty spiritual plane where all aspects of yoga sex techniques have ceased to matter. On the contrary, Yoga, being a philosophy singularly free of both Puritanism and hypocrisy, its disciples recognize the yoga sex urge for the healthy instinct it is and would consider any attempt at its suppression profoundly unhealthy. In other words, yoga and sex do go together. Suppression and denial of yoga sex improvements can lead only to physical upsets and mental harm. But the Yogis are steeped in the general Eastern attitude which is simply that sexual impulses, yoga sex etc., like any other natural urges, may be used to either good purpose or evil, depending on ourselves. If yoga sex is made synonymous with physical love-the carnal side of deep and genuine emotion-it becomes a supremely meaningful and beautiful expression of the man-woman relationship, the ultimate union. The Hindu believe that woman is the complementary part of man, a gift from heaven, man's soul companion and helpmate, and that union must be not only mental and spiritual, but physical. Marriage is entered upon in an attitude of humility, with full recognition of its solemnity. In fact, one of the basic Hindu yoga sex writings, the Kama Sutra, is an elaborate treatise on the philosophy and etiquette of love, courtship and yoga sex behavior, both male and female, detailed in a manner which our best modern manuals on marriage techniques do not begin to approach. Hindu temples are often decorated with phallic yoga sex representations which shock the traveler, but which to the worshippers have a deep spiritual significance. Because of this cultural attitude Oriental women share with their men an approach at the same time more natural and more sophisticated. The Yogis, who teach that man's supreme goal is Self-realization, understand that such realization cannot be wholly achieved except through union with woman, his other half. What one sex lacks the other provides. Rigid denial of yoga sex is merely a superficial form of escape which is self-defeating. To live fully, with understanding, each human being must know something of the innermost depths of the mind of the other sex. It is impossible to advance to complete understanding of Self, and of the world at large, while living in ignorance of the other half of mankind. Man and woman have been created for each other, not to exist in separate vacuums. However, Self-realization may not be equated with self-indulgence. Therefore yoga sex teaches that much of our sex drive must also be sublimated, that is, channelled into other life drives, creative or otherwise useful and always constructive. In this Yoga is not too different from the Freudian theory which claims that all our urges, including the life urge itself, are based in the libido. The very symbol of Kundalini, remember, is the serpent; and the serpent is one of the basic and universal symbols of male sexuality, not only in Freudian language but throughout mythology and folklore everywhere. This, according to some authorities, symbolizes yoga sex and the creative power wrongly used. The Yogis themselves have learned how to transmute yoga sex energy into psychic channels. Thus it is never either actually suppressed or dissipated but rather transmuted.

Sometimes it is drawn to the solar plexus for utilizing in healthful physical exercise. Sometimes it is sent to the brain and toward the spirit. To the advanced Yoga sex expert it then brings poise, harmony, freedom from desire, lasting serenity, and finally a merging with the universal consciousness. To us average individuals, control over this basic inner force may well mean a happier personal life. The man and woman doesn't exist whose personal life is not closely related to an amazing sex life - through yoga sex or any other improvements. Yoga offers many such solutions. In the first place, a number of the yoga exercises help sublimate a restless sex urge while others awaken a sluggish body. Restlessness becomes positive, creative energy which may then be properly utilized instead of merely bringing trouble. Conversely, lack of interest in one's mate-and sometimes the free-floating hostility arising out of such feelings-slowly gives way to a warmer, more giving attitude. Sex, as we all know, is not all there is to a good marriage but it is one of its cornerstones. A warm hearted partner mated with a cold, unresponsive one may be willing out of loyalty to put up with a physical starvation diet, but is bound to be adversely affected and sometimes even emotionally destroyed. Or else, the marriage itself is destroyed when once the rejected partner, having had enough of indifference, turns elsewhere for affection. The sexless person-not as rare as many imagine-is a kind of emotionally impoverished individual. Yoga sex education frees the student of the straight-jacket of prudishness and of hostility. But long before such emotional growth has been achieved certain obvious changes may be brought about through the daily performance of the proper asanas and mudras. As we have said so many times at various points in this discussion, there can be no underestimating of the interplay of the physical and the spiritual in the human makeup. Therefore putting your physical house in order will do wonders for you in other ways too. Sluggish sex urges are often traceable to inadequately functioning endocrine glands and a resulting hormone deficiency. The gonads, or sex glands, would be the offenders here. But the gonads, like the other endocrines, are themselves controlled by the pituitary gland which is known to secrete about a dozen hormones that stimulate the proper functioning of all the other seven pair. It may very well be, therefore, that the sexually indifferent person's basic trouble lies in some malfunctioning of the pituitary, a condition which medicine would treat by means of expensive hormone injections or equally expensive pills. The yoga method, of course, is through exercise. You will find that the Headstand or Sirshasana advanced yoga poses, found in other yoga articles on this site, if practiced regularly, will stimulate the pituitary gland by sending a vast flow of blood to the head as your body briefly defies the laws of gravity. Thus stimulated, it will then immediately wake up the gonads, which will begin to respond by producing hormones of their own. Needless to say this is not the only beneficial result of the Headstand (its various therapeutic effects are detailed along with directions for executing it) but it happens to be the yoga effect which concerns us here. But revitalizing the pituitary is not the only way to keep the gonads in top functioning condition. Exercises for both stimulating and sublimating the yoga sex instincts include the Stomach Lift or Uddiyana Bandha, the Plough or Halasana, the Fish Pose, Matsyasana and the Supine Pelvic Posture. Keep in mind that each of these sample yoga exercises is beneficial in more ways than for sex. By learning to do them you will be reaping fringe benefits, but their specific value here is revitalization of the gonad secretions, overcoming seminal weakness in men and ovarian disturbances in women. In a short while the sex effects will become apparent and will doubtless surprise you: you will be rewarded not only by physical revitalization, but a sense of greater inner harmony.

Anxieties relating to yoga and your sexual activity in general will gradually vanish. Learning how to sublimate the yoga urge is a way to develop spiritual strength. Directing the emotions toward goals of universal love means reaching out toward everything in this world that is alive and good. Love like this of course transcends the limits of sexual emotion and those who are able to experience it come to know an inner happiness denied less understanding and compassionate natures. The very last thing a Yogi would maintain is that one must rise above sex. On the contrary, Yoga teaches that it is desirable to rise by means of it to greater spiritual heights. Properly used, sex is the greatest of gifts and none may despise its rich potentialities. Both sexes should therefore learn to accept themselves completely, man as man, woman as woman, while at the same time recognizing that each of us carries some of the qualities of the opposite sex within us. Armed with this knowledge and understanding, using yoga as an adornment, it is then possible to glory in its possession, not stifle it. You already know yoga can give you greater flexibility, better muscle tone, a surefire way to release stress, and maybe even enlightenment. But better sex? Really? You betcha. Yoga offers myriad physical and emotional benefits that add up to more fun between the sheets and a more fulfilling, meaningful sexual relationship with your partner. Whether heating up your sex life is the main goal of your yoga practice or just a happy side effect, chalk this information up as yet another great reason to roll out the mat. Here are the major ways it works: Sensuality On a more subtle level, yoga helps you develop an awareness of sensations in your body. Learning to feel the weight rolling into the inside edges of your palms in downward dog, for example, teaches you to savor every sensation in your body including the really delicious ones that happen during sex. It also helps keep you rooted in your body and out of your head, where your swirling thoughts can keep you from enjoying the experience at hand, whether its in class, out with friends or between the sheets. Confidence A recent study shows that people who practice yoga gain less weight as they age than people who dont do yoga at all. And while feeling more fit is an undeniable turn-on, a sustained yoga practice also encourages you to develop a reverence for your body. Energy Raise your hand if youve ever dozed off during sex, or felt the stirrings of arousal but were so tired you opted for bed instead. According to a recent survey by the National Sleep Foundation, a full third of women say tiredness causes them to cut back on sex. And a 2004 clinical study at Harvard Medical School showed that just eight weeks of a simple at-home yoga practice significantly improved sleep quality for the toughest audience chronic insomniacs. Its a simple exercise to connect the dots practice yoga, sleep better, have more sex. Intimacy Yogas effects transcend the physical. It helps us become more comfortable in vulnerable positions whether its a full backbend during class or a heart-to-heart conversation in bed at night. Better Orgasms On a purely physical level, many yoga poses such as upavista konasana, or wide-legged straddle pose increase blood flow to the pelvis. In our sedentary world, the muscles that run through the pelvis are chronically constricted. Another crucial aspect of yoga involves engaging and drawing up

the muscles of the pelvic floor (known in Sanskrit as mula bandha, or root lock), which strengthens the muscles that play an integral role in orgasm. Specific Poses Here are two of the many yoga poses that can help boost your enjoyment in the boudoir: Upavista Konasana (Wide Straddle Forward Bend) How to do it: Sit on the floor with your legs wide. Leg muscles are activated and toes and kneecaps point straight up. Lean your torso forward as far as it goes comfortably. Hold for 5 to 10 deep breaths. Sexual Benefits: Increases blood flow (and thus sensation) in the pelvis. Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose, also known as Cobblers Pose) How to do it: Sit with your knees bent and soles of the feet touching. Lightly hold your big toes and lean your torso forward over your legs (back is gently rounded). Hold for 5 to 10 deep breaths. Sexual benefits: Alleviates urinary and uterine disorders. Strengthens the uterus. Eases irritability, anxiety and fatigue, three reasons we might choose not to have sex.

Know Yoga for Good Sex

Yoga is not just about the beautiful bodies of diehard yogis and yoginis, although fitness is definitely one of the major payoffs, yoga is a path to that illusive center we are all seeking...it's a path to inner peace. And that is not all. It also enhances your body to perform good sex. Isn't that quite amazing? Maintaining and increasing the flexibility of the pelvic muscles, is as important as strengthening your pelvic region. Any muscle is more effective when its range of movement is higher and it is in a relaxed state. The pelvic region is an area which tends to tighten up with the high stress levels of modern day life. Stretching these muscles will help increase the range of movement in this area. It will also bring you to a more relaxed state so that your sexual performance improves, as a tense individual has a tendency towards premature ejaculation. Do you believe yoga is about twisting your body into good positions for sex? No. Yoga is really about what's happening in your mind, not your body when you make love. Like all other issues, Yoga's view of sex is also that of adherence to the middle path. It has been proved beyond doubt that a fulfilling sexual life is necessary to lead a happy life. Yoga considers sex to be a natural function, very helpful in a loving relationship and, of course, indispensable for the continuation of the human race on the earth. Yoga has a clear cut demarcation; do not indulge in too much of sex as it may diminish the force and pace of life. According to Yoga, the sexual secretions contain the seeds of life, concentrated life force and nutrients. Once depletion in life force takes place, the vitality level and resistance to diseases will tend to diminish. In addition to this, Yoga helps in having controlled and joyful sexual life. Through different Yoga poses one can learn to control sexual activities. A complete branch of Yoga, called Kundalini Yoga, deals with harnessing the sexual power. Yoga enables one to get into meaningful relationships and enjoy sex.If the mind and body are not in optimum health, an individual can not have fulfilling sexual life. Yoga asanas and breathing exercises provide help in obtaining the optimum health state. The healing power of Yoga is so strong that people who are physiologically weak and to some extent or fully impotent may get back potency as they regain their physical health through Yoga. There are many individuals who approach sexual matters with a nervous mind. Such people are helped greatly from Yogic exercises and breathing practices. Yoga relaxes the mind as well as the body. Remaining relaxed is perhaps one of the most essential preconditions for a harmonious sex life. If one is in a worried state of mind, he/she is left dissatisfied and irritated. This may prove a stumbling block in a healthy sexual life and relationship. Yoga has provided great relief to numerous concerned individuals on many occasions. It has been confirmed by the wives of many men that after taking to Yoga their sexual life and marital relationship underwent notable changes. The philosophy behind the initiative is that Yoga will help sex workers stay mentally and physically fit, and reduce the exhaustion that can result from seeing clients. Sex can cause vaginal pain and

emotional stress and yoga will help sex workers enjoy acts that ordinarily are mundane or unpleasant. Yoga has already effectively been used to enhance flexibility and stamina, enhance sexual pleasure and reduce sexual dysfunctions. It has also been used in other health programmes to increase physical and mental well being. Spirituality has also had a long history of being linked to sex work. So Yoga has an important part to play in the well being of the sex workers, which is again quite a new and innovative thinking and contribution in the world of yoga. So yoga with its all-pervasive effects can prove to be beneficial for a couple in making love.

How Yoga improve Sex life , read here

Like all other issues, Yoga's view of sex is also that of adherence to the middle path. It has been proved beyond doubt that a fulfilling sexual life is necessary to lead a happy life. Yoga considers sex to be a natural function, very helpful in a loving relationship and, of course, indispensable for the continuation of the human race on the earth. Yoga has a clear cut demarcation; do not indulge in over sex as it may diminish the force and pace of life. According to Yoga, the sexual secretions contain the seeds of life, concentrated life force and nutrients. Once depletion in life force takes place, the vitality level and resistance to diseases will tend to diminish. In addition to this, Yoga helps in having controlled and joyful sexual life. Through different Yoga poses one can learn to control sexual activities. A complete branch of Yoga, called Kundalini Yoga, deals with harnessing the sexual power. Yoga enables one to get into meaningful relationships and enjoy sex. If mind and body are not in optimum health, an individual can not have fulfilling sexual life. Yoga asanas and breathing exercises provide help in obtaining the optimum health state. The healing power of Yoga is so strong that people who are physiologically weak and to some extent or fully impotent may get back potency as they regain their physical health through Yoga. There are many individuals who approach sexual matters with a nervous mind. Such people are helped greatly from Yogic exercises and breathing practices. Yoga relaxes the mind as well as the body. Remaining relaxed is perhaps one of the most essential preconditions for a harmonious sex life. If one is in a worried state of mind, he/she is left dissatisfied and irritated. This may prove a stumbling block in a healthy sexual life and relationship. Yoga has provided great relief to numerous concerned individuals on many occasions. It has been confirmed by the wives of many men that after taking to Yoga their sexual life and marital relationship underwent notable changes.

Yoga envigorates your sex life. Yoga has proved it's efficacy in almost all aspects of
health. Sexual health also happens to be an essential aspect of being healthy. And Yoga has not bared sex from its holistic health planning.In fact yoga practices have laid great emphasis on healthy sexual life. A good number of yoga asana and exercises are specifically meant to enhance your sexual energy.Yoga's sexual philosophy says that for getting sexual pleasure your mind and body should remain in a rejuvenated state and this rejuvenation could be only brought about by various yoga practices. These yoga practices include all forms of yoga- be it asana, pranyama or dhyana. Various sexual dysfunctions could be effectively cured by yoga. Yoga even offers cure for male impotency. Because of yoga's efficacy in improving your sexual life, yoga is being practiced by a good number of folks with the sole purpose of enhancing sexual drive. But Yoga never advocates excess of sex. It sticks to the conventional concept of sex that the act of sex is primarily meant for procreation.Among various types of Yoga, Tantra Yoga is said to be very much linked with sex. Tantra Yoga was a preferred practice in ancient India to better you sexually. Ancient Indian guide of sex Kamasutra have advocated usefulness of Tantra Yoga for enhanced level of sexual pleasure. This practice of Tantra Yoga has recently gone through a renaissance as more and more folks prefer it over Viagra and other medications to gain desired level of erection.Asanas of Tantra Yoga bring in required physiological changes to propel more secretion of sexual hormones. These hormones in turn help gain desired sexual potency. In addition to that Tantra Yoga also contributes to increased flexibility and freshness. These factors combine together to serve a unified purpose that is your better sexual life. Kamsutra offers around sixty yoga positions for ideal sex.

These sexual positions have been proved effective in solving marital discord arising out of sexual dissatisfaction. Thus Yoga could be a very effective way of improving your conjugal relationship.Various yoga breathing techniques are particularly helpful in bettering you for sex. These breathing techniques along with Hot Yoga asana would enable you overpowered with sexual potential. So folks, gear up and make best use of yoga poses to enjoy a healthy and better sex life.

Tips for practice of Yoga.

Yoga positions and the practice of yoga can be beneficial to your mind, your muscles, and even internal functions like your digestive system. With so many benefits, it is no wonder that yogas popularity is on the rise. Before you take it up, though, it is a good idea to have in mind the right information to help you succeed and get the most out of the experience. Take these yoga tips into account as you begin your physical, mental, and spiritual journey. Practice Makes Perfect Practice your positions often. Yoga offers many benefits to your mind, body, and spirit, and these benefits may be maximized with regular practice on your own in addition to your classes and with your teacher. As a beginner, it is especially important that you practice so that you may see and feel the benefits early on. With yoga, the frequency with which you work on your positions is as important if not more so than the length of the practice sessions. Try to find a few minutes each day to do a little bit of yoga.Make sure that you practice your poses correctly. Most anything you read, watch, or listen to about yoga will tell you to practice often, but one of the yoga tips that sometimes get skipped is that you must practice right. Make sure that each practice session extends you. Do not practice only your best poses, but also work on poses you struggle with as well. Such a practice will be more productive and give you the feeling of self-assurance that you seek with yoga. Maximizing Your Potential One of the more important tips for beginners is to let go of your ego. In order to fully maximize your yoga experience, you must forget about such things as impressing your teacher and classmates. One of the central ideas of yoga is self-study. To fully study yourself, you must try not to compare yourself to the teacher or other students, but instead, you should strive to maximize your own learning and improvement during each class and practice session. Finding Yourself During practice, remember what is important. The depths of your poses are not nearly as important as how deep you delve into yourself. In yoga, you learn about your inner attention. Be sure to use that attention when practicing and when with your instructor to get the most out of your poses even if you cannot get deeply into them physically. Finding the Right Teacher No number of yoga positioning tips can compete with having the right teacher. When selecting a yoga teacher, make sure you find someone with whom you feel comfortable. Your instructor should have good knowledge and work through compassion and respect for you as a person. No matter how many books you read or tapes you watch, you will never get the feedback and encouragement that you will with the right teacher.As a beginner in yoga, there are undoubtedly times that you feel a bit lost. That is okay. Hopefully, though, with these tips you will have an idea of what you need to do to feel more successful in your yoga experience. Yoga is not a religion, but in some ways it does become a way of life, and by following these tip you can start your journey toward that way of life on the right foot.