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9/28/2017 1 Comment

Every-body is a YOGA BODY......

by Awilda Rivera

Originally published in May 2017 in Aquarius Magazine for the "Under the Bodhi Tree" column. Some edits have been made to this version.

Plus Sized Yogini Jessamyn Stanely taking a strong Peacock pose on the Beach

Yoga is for every-body! Despite the images you may see on TV, Film & Social Media there is NO right or wrong body type for yoga. Humans love to compare, so naturally when we see skinny women in spandex leggings on TV doing handstands we think “There is no way I could do that” or “Only if I were tiny like her then I could do all the Yoga moves.” I must confess those were some of my first thoughts when I first stepped on the mat.

The Question becomes: “Does Yoga have a body image issue?” Thankfully the answer is no. Yoga does not have a yoga body issue, however we in the west DO have a body image issue.

The great news is that in the last several years there have been a handful of Phenomenal women and men who have stood up to shine a light on this ugly little secret. The truth is that since Yoga has become a business, there has been a ton of money poured into marketing and creation of the Yoga image. This image like all other sales avatars alienates most people and focuses on conventional ideas of beauty & strength (i.e. hetero-normative, skinny white women in fancy pants doing hands stands). The reality of Yoga could not be more different. The postures and poses of yoga are meant to be applicable to all body types depending on the need of the individual, hence all the various modifications available for a single pose.

One Fearless Woman leading the Yoga body image revolution is Jessamyn Stanley. Jessamyn is a voluptuous, queer, women of color who is smashing yoga body image stereo types left & right. She is unafraid to acknowledge that many of the challenges facing those who have bodies out side of the culturally approved norms come from the glares & judgment of others. These stares coupled with the internal dialogue of comparison can easily prevent a first timer from ever stepping foot in a studio. However, as long as you remember why you are coming to Yoga in the first place then all the other obstacles will fall away, as Jessamyn put it ““The whole point of this practice is to burn away the parts of our lives that are built up over the years that don’t matter, and to burn that away to who you truly are.”[1] Skinny or Big, White or Black, Straight or Queer – Yoga is for EVERY BODY.

More importantly, there aren’t just two sides of the coin. The body of a yogi can land anywhere on a broad beautiful spectrum because ANYONE can practice yoga.
Remember -- “Your body is not standing in your way[,] Only your mind is[.]” [2]
Get out there, get on your mat, and start to burn away what no longer serves you so that you can rise from the ashes like Phoenix – renewed, rejuvenated, ready to take on the world.

Footnotes:
[1] http://www.boredpanda.com/plus-sized-yoga-jessamyn-stanley-fat-femme/

[2] http://www.boredpanda.com/plus-sized-yoga-jessamyn-stanley-fat-femme/

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9/21/2017 0 Comments

The joy of 2: Intro to Partner & Acro Yoga

Double Down Dog, A Partner Yoga Pose

After years of flourishing in the west, the yoga family tree is growing more branches. Every year it seems a new lineage or teaching styles is developed. Each one grounded in something a little different then the last, some with vastly different teaching methods. The activity that was once deemed a solo practice has evolved into a team sport with the help of a few adventurous souls. The partner yoga phenomena is sweeping the globe! You may be left wondering: What is Acro or Partner Yoga anyway?

Acro & Partner Yoga are close relatives. Partner yoga is the milder of the two. Both up the ante on the original, singular, individual asana practice we have grown to know and love. These two styles of yoga utilize the combination of 2 or more individuals to counterbalance each other’s weight in order to sustain one grand pose.

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Acro Yogis Having Fun in the Desert.

Partner Yoga is mostly known for poses like double down dog and double plank.

In this pose leverage is being created by the connection between the feet and lower back of the the two yogis. When executed properly & safely the Yogi in Downward dog should be able to lift their arms off the ground.

Shockingly enough, the novelty of a double down dog pales in comparison to the Wow factor of Acro Yoga . Acro- Yoga is known for its gravity defying poses like floating bow pose. Acro Yoga has created a marriage between acrobatics, yoga, and team work that has caught the attention of thousands of people over the last few years.

While these two styles are still growing in popularity nationally, you will happily find more than a few offerings for both in Atlanta.

Despite what you may think, there are no height/weight/strength requirements to take an Acro or Partner yoga class. Nor do you have to bring a partner that is your same height/weight/build in order to participate. I once went to a partner yoga workshop with a friend who is at least 5-6 inches taller then me & weighs at least 30 pounds more than me. I am happy to report our size differential was not an obstacle at all!

If this all sounds way far a field, I can understand. The first time I heard about these Yoga styles I was slack jawed. However, after experiencing it for myself I was amazed. There is a certain level of interconnectedness, synergy and unified focus that is created when you attend one of these classes with a friend, lover, or family member. You undoubtedly become closer to them, and grow more uniquely aware of your own power.

Interested in trying out a partner Yoga workshop in Atlanta? Check out Nirvana Yoga Atlanta they offer Partner Yoga workshops several times a year. Feeling acrobatic? Then visit www.AcroAtlanta.com for classes and workshops located at Intown Tumbling near old fourth ward.

Until Next time…. Namaste!

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9/14/2017 0 Comments

The Myths & Movement....

by Awilda Rivera

Originally Published July 2016 for Aquarius Magazine in "Under The Bodhi Tree"

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There are many layers to the rich tapestry of Yoga. We have discussed the ancient philosophy, physiology and modern interpretations of Yoga. However we have neglected to explore the Mythology of Yoga. It is not shocking that the Yogic tradition has elaborate Myths attached to the creation and naming of many of its most notable poses.

Surprisingly, not all of the Myths associated with Yoga are connected to Hindu Mythology. Some of the stories are connected to ancient ways of living, others to an understanding about nature, and some are even tied to stories of the Buddha.

There is a lot to learn about Yoga through these many myths. For example, it is said that Tree pose was developed to help us embody the tolerance, altruistic giving, strength and balance that trees have symbolized to humanity since the beginning of time. [1] Another notable myth tells of a Man who spent 3 lifetimes trying to master the Vedas[2], only to realize that he spent 3 lifetimes focused on the wrong thing. This dedicated man had thought the best way to get close to divinity was to memorize these sacred texts; however he had failed to realize the ultimate lesson: knowledge gained and not shared helps no one. After being given the opportunity to experience a 4 lifetime, the man spent all his living years sharing the knowledge and joy of Vedas with others. Ironically at the conclusion of the 4th lifetime he was given the opportunity to avoid further reincarnation[3], yet the happiness he had experienced while sharing the knowledge was so great that he chose to continue being reborn so that he could share the knowledge with others. [4]

Many of the Myths are allegorical and serve to illustrate important points about life’s greater noble truths. These myths illuminate nuances about how to live in harmony with yourself and your environment. The stories shine a light on the importance of being able to occupy a space of harmony with humility and grace, such that your peaceful presence can be an example to help others achieve the same state of existence.

If you are interested in reading more of the Yoga Myths, there are several excellent books in print that will provide a closer look at these incredible stories. Here are a few books that contain many of the Yoga Myths and can help you experience yoga through this new lens:

Myths of the Asanas, by Alana Kaivalya (mandala publishing 2010)
Downward Dogs and Warriors: Wisdom Tales for Modern Yogis, By Zo Newell (Himalayan Insitute, 2007)
Yoga: Immortality and Freedom (Mythos: Princeton /Bollingen Series on World Mythology) by Mircea Eliade & William R. Trask - 2009

The myths of Yoga offer a refreshing perspective on an ancient practice through its own narrative. Don’t take my word for it, check it out for yourself. Check out one of these awesome resources. Dive into the world of lessons learned and miraculous triumph!

Until Next time, Namaste y’all!

Footnotes:
[1] Myths of the Asanas, Alana Kaivalya (Mandala Publishing 2010), p. 167
[2] Vedas are sacred Hindu Texts
[3] The liberation from the cycle of reincarnation is a very significant concept in Hinduism – this liberation from the death and rebirth cycle could be compared to experience of reaching enlightenment.
[4] Kaivalya, p. 111-116

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9/7/2017 0 Comments

Consider this...before booking a Yoga Retreat

by Awilda Rivera.

original published in Dec. 2016 for Aquarius Magazine in "Under the Bodhi Tree". Some edits have been made to the original artcle.

In the last decade, the Yoga Retreat Phenomenon has taken the world by storm. Right now, there are dozens of Yoga Retreats happening all over the globe. The benefits of a healthy yoga practice have become so widely known that people want to incorporate it into their travel plans.

Yoga Retreats come in many forms, from very structured to incredibly lax. Asana classes are standard & will often be offered multiple times a day on each day of the retreat. Opportunities for meditation will be offered either as free hours in between classes or in a more formal workshop setting. Some retreats offer exposure to additional activities like surfing, eco-tourism, and cultural immersion. Often Breakfast will be provided, however on some retreats there are no meals included. Accommodations are always 100% factored in to retreat pricing.

Interested in finding the right Retreat for you?

Here are the TOP 6 THINGS TO CONSIDER when choosing your Perfect Yoga Retreat:

Duration – Are you interested in a weekend getaway or a week escape? Knowing exactly how long you wish to be away on your retreat is essential to helping you identify what kind of a retreat will be best for you. Yoga Retreats can be anywhere from 24 hours to 30 days long. Identifying your ideal retreat duration will help you to eliminate a lot of trips that simply do not fit your needs.
Budget – Yoga retreat pricing can vary from $500 for a weekend on Jekyll Island, to $2500 for 5 days in Morocco. I am offering a retreat to Nicaragua in February 2017 with packages that start at $1000. Determine your budget and stick to it, no need to spend more then necessary and risk regretting your trip for financial reasons.
Location – Beach, mountains, woods, domestic, international – the world is yours. There are retreats offered in all kinds of environments to meet a myriad of desires and needs. Think about your happy place and there is likely a yoga retreat offered there, or someplace similar.
Teaching Style – Some trips focus their Asana class offerings on a particular teaching style. Make sure you read the fine print. If what you want is a relaxing all levels yoga classes on your retreat, then you might not want to go on a Power Yoga retreat. Take some time to research the nuances of the teaching styles offered on the retreats you are considering, watch Youtube videos, ask friends, perhaps go to a studio that offers that style of yoga so that you can be sure you will enjoy what is being offered.
Required vs. Optional – It is important to note if a retreat has required activities. If you are looking for a more relaxed trip then a trip where every class is required is likely not for you.
Excursions & Add-Ons – Surfing, City Exploring, Hikes, Culturally immersive Day Trips & Snorkeling are a few of the most common add-on activities for Yoga retreats. These additional activities often come at an additional cost. Package details will usually reveal what options are available for additional activities, as well as day trips and upgrades.

Ultimately, if you are looking to go on a yoga retreat there is something out there for you. I will be hosting at least two yoga retreat's a year. In 2017 I took groups on: (1) Yoga & Surf Retreat to Nicaragua from February 18 -25, 2017, and (2)Cultural & Wellness Immersion to Cuba. In April 2018, I will be leading a group to Barbados on a Caribbean Wellness Escape - for more information visit www.AwildaRivera.com . If your interested on what other kinds of trips are available, then you should check out websites like TripTribe.com or BookYogaRetreats.com. Enjoy your adventures, until next time yogis!

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Welcome! I am so glad you found this area of my site! It is my intention to share a tone of awesome free content with you all here. Feel free to comment, email or share posts that you enjoy! Thanks for visiting!

**All blogs written by Awilda Rivera, unless otherwise indicated therein.

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Every-body is a YOGA BODY......

by Awilda Rivera

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The joy of 2: Intro to Partner & Acro Yoga

Archives

Categories

The Myths & Movement....

by Awilda Rivera

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Consider this...before booking a Yoga Retreat

by Awilda Rivera.

Archives

Categories

Knowledge Share: ​A Place for Discovery & Growth

Welcome! I am so glad you found this area of my site! It is my intention to share a tone of awesome free content with you all here. Feel free to comment, email or share posts that you enjoy! Thanks for visiting!

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Knowledge Share:
a place for discovery & growth

Knowledge Share:
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