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12/10/2018 0 Comments Yoga & LoveOur society is obsessed with Love. The Valentine’s Day Machine gets moving on Jan. 1st, and soon after heart paraphernalia fills supermarket specialty aisles, pharmacies and television commercials. It’s a time where everyone becomes acutely aware of Love. Admittedly all the attention during Valentine’s day is placed on romantic love which assumes that we already experience Self Love.
We have all heard the old adage “In order to love someone else you must first love your self.” There are thousands of books, websites and seminars that purport to teach you how to love yourself more, but ultimately the question is “how can I cultivate sustainable Self-Love organically?” The answer lies in being present in each moment with an open heart, which the practice of Yoga can help anyone develop. Yoga teaches us that we are each our own Guru, and empowers us to be present and open our hearts to the possibility of each moment. Meditation, Backbends and Sama Vata Pranayama are some ways that yoga helps us cultivate Self Love. Meditation Looking within is essential to uncovering the truth of what we feel. Taking a moment to sit or lay with an inward gaze focusing on the internal, on your self, can have powerful results. We are generally so attached to what just happened or is about to happen that we are not present in moment. Presence of mind in the moment creates a greater awareness of one’s self, this type of internal focus opens the mind up for new perspective. Flexibility in perspective is essential for unconditional Self Love. Allowing yourself the space to change your point of view, while learning more about your needs & wants promotes a more compassionate inward attitude. Meditation provides both a neutral platform for you to assess where your outlook could benefit from shifting, and a safe place from which to begin to make those shifts. For many, meditation can be a daunting task fraught with more questions then answers. Thankfully the practice of quieting the mind at the beginning and end of each Yoga Asana practice provides an opportunity for us all to strengthen our meditation muscles. Use that time to focus on one word, sentence, phrase, or a feeling – let it be something simple and easy for you to hold in your minds eye. You can do this in your home practice or at the studio. Notice if it becomes easier to hold your focus after doing this 5 times, you may find that it becomes more accessible the more your do it. BackBends/ Heart Openers: Your physical heart & your heart chakra are the your energetic love centers. Most humans spend their waking hours sitting - at a desk, behind steering wheel, on the couch or doing a combination thereof. Our sedentary lifestyles cause us to hunch forward, curl our shoulders forward, and drop our head which has the effect of closing our hearts. Backbends offer us a way to open our hearts through Yoga Asana. When you incorporate backbends into your practice you are engaging in heart opening activity that in turn cultivates a foundation for sustainable Self Love. Your Heart must be open to Love. You must be open to loving yourself. A prescription of: 3 Baby Cobras per vinyasa, followed by 3 Cobras per vinyasa and then 1 Up Dog per vinyasa would help anyone begin to physically open their heart; as the movement in backbends originates from between the shoulder blades. Foundational backbends such as the ones I just listed work as well as more advanced backbends, like Camel or Cosmic Dancer. Remember Yoga is negotiation with the body, finding a happy medium between effort and ease is paramount. If try to muscle yourself into a more challenging backbend injury is almost certain, so go slow and always consult a teacher if you have any questions. SamaVata Pranayama: Sama Vata Pranayama, is equal length breathing out of the nostrils which is key to being present with an open heart. When we breathe using our nostrils, exclusively, we are activating the Parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic system controls our bodies: rest, relax & heal response. Conversely, mouth breathing activates our fight or flight response. As you can imagine, when one is in a mental state of fight or flight it is virtually impossible to be present in the moment because one’s survival is at stake. However, when you are nostril breathing the body can find a calm homeostasis and take in your surroundings in a relaxed fashion. Practicing Equal length nostril breathing is a wonderful way to create sacred space for your self in any situation. All you need to do is focus on your breath. Let your inhales and exhales be the same length, speed, and pressure. You can begin by counting how long you inhale is and counting down for the exhale. Over a few rounds let your self organically find an even flow. Do this for several cycles. When our finish notice if you feel more present and open to your surroundings. I invite you to use the practices detailed above to support your Self Love cultivation. Cultivating Self Love is a process, it can be elusive and slippery. Thankfully as long as we return to the timeless truth that “in order to love someone you must first love yourself” we will never forget the importance of Self Love. Namaste!
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11/26/2018 0 Comments Yoga is NOT a Religion.Although the long and short-term medical benefits of Yoga have been widely documented, many people still refuse to try it. For the longest time I couldn’t understand why people seemed to prefer high impact, body jolting, injury promoting fitness regimes over proven low impact Ancient methods. It wasn’t until I moved to the South that I realized, I had failed to notice the elephant in the room. For many Yoga is off limits because they do not want to compromise their Faith, for them the question remains: “Isn’t Yoga a Religion?” In the South Eastern United States where most identify as Christians, this question looms large.
Thankfully, I can say honestly and with great integrity: YOGA IS NOT A RELIGION. Religion is categorized by both a belief in a God or group of Gods and an organized system of ceremonies to worship a God or Gods. Yoga has no God or Gods and therefore no one to worship.[1] However Yoga & Religion do have some parallels. The world’s various Religions exist to promote greater connection for man with the natural world, his divine origin, his spirit, and himself through his devotion to a God & obedience of divine law. While Yoga has a divine origin, if the myths of its creation are true[2], its philosophy is purely secular. The preeminent work on yoga philosophy – Pantajali’s Yoga Sutras – clearly explains that Yoga is not a Religion but rather it is a vehicle for self-transformation. Yoga is about You. Yoga promotes introspection, increased physical &emotional awareness, perspective shifts, release of stagnant energy, personal growth and internal peace. The truth is that Yoga and Religion have one obvious parallel: each promotes positive self-transformation through action and reflection. Yoga does this by causing the individual to come to the mat and experience themselves in that moment with out any buffers. The act of engaging in mindful movement & breathing, while focusing on the intentionality of one’s acts gives each person the opportunity to dive deeper into themselves. During a Yoga Asana practice, One will inevitability confront some truths about oneself that will not be pleasant. On the mat you’re safe to explore those experiences, and you’re free to cultivate a foundation for resolution, release, and renewal. Some of you are thinking, “None of this explains why there is giant Elephant headed dude in that Yoga Studio I visited,” and your right - it doesn’t. What is important to know is that Yoga has many lineages, these lineages are all influenced by the different Yogi’s who started them. Since Yoga originated in South East Asia, many Yogis did incorporate some of their Hindu beliefs into their yogic lineages – while many others did not. The first yoga Studio I ever visited was adorned with many Hindu fetishes, images of Gurus hung on the walls, and the air was heavily saturated with rich incense. I had no quarrel with the iconography, but it did not resonate with me. The next Studio I went to was bereft of any spiritual imagery and displayed a strict minimalist philosophy with its exposed brick, wood floors and space heaters. This second Studio seemed more amenable to me, but I was still looking for something more. After continued searching, I came across a Studio that felt right. Its natural wood floors and paneling coupled with lotus tea light candles felt like home from the moment I walked inside. The final Studio was able to achieve a balance between spiritual and physical that was perfect for me. However, there are many Yogis who prefer a Studio that teaches yoga absent of spirituality, and even others that prefer Studio’s with Guru based lineages. Ultimately the choice is yours. Be open to exploring the abundance of options. You will find that some teachers will vary the extent to which they focus on the spiritual during their Class, some pepper it in while others completely leave it out. While certain Yogic lineages can certainly offer a spiritual outlet for those looking to mix in mythology with their movement, there are many lineages that focus on self-exploration through movement electing to highlight physiology, alignment, and introspection. The one fundamental truth is that Yoga is certainly not a Religion. [1] www.Merriam-webster.com/dictionary/religion [2] Yoga was said to have been created by Shiva during a 1000 year mediation. 11/12/2018 0 Comments Yamas 101Yoga offers much more than postures for the body. The dense volumes that contain the texts of Yoga philosophy are rich with wisdom. On the tree of Yoga the Postures are only one branch. The questions becomes: “If Yoga Asana is but a branch, what are the roots of the Tree of Yoga?”
The Roots of the Tree are called The Yamas, they address how one should interact with the World. These precepts provide a basis for the ethical foundation of Yoga. The 5 axioms, classified as Yamas, are steeped in centuries of rational investigation of the truths of being, knowledge, & conduct. The five Yamas are Ahimsa, Asteya, Satya, Asparigraha, & Brachmacharya. Ahimsa, non- harming, speaks to the ideal of non-violence. Ahimsa is most well known as the philosophy of the Ghandi, who rallied his countrymen for independence using non-violent protests in the face of Imperialist aggression. However, Ahimsa is also relevant in the moments when one attempts to force oneself into a physical posture, mental space, or emotional state. The use of force equates to the use of violence. Once I learned what Ahimsa meant, it was easy to identify the many places in my life where I failed to act non-violently. The dozens of times I was in Yoga class and consciously pulled myself more deeply into a forward fold, risking a slipped disk. The awkward moments I forced myself to remain in an uncomfortable social situation when I could have left. Ahimsa provides much needed perspective for Americans who are accustomed to forcing themselves to keep working, exercising, doing and socializing. Asteya, non-stealing is rather self-explanatory. Yet, it is the nuances that are worth noting. Taking something that is not yours is stealing, even when what is being taken is an intangible resource. Time is one of the most highly stolen intangibles. Stealing Time is easy, especially if one is unaware of what is happening. Have you ever been late on purpose to a meeting? Kept someone on the phone longer, so you could keep talking about your problems? If you answered yes to any of the previous questions then you have stolen Time. Our desires cause us to act impetuously, which can result in the mindless theft of tangible or intangible resources so that we can get what we want. The principle of non-stealing calls on us to apply a macro perspective to our actions so as to recognize and put aside our immediate wants, only then can we be sure we are acting with Asteya. Satya, is the principle of Truthfulness. Truthfulness can be mistaken for the idea that you must be brutally honest all the time. B.K.S. Iyengar said it best, “We should not use truth as a club with which to beat other people…Truth has got to be tempered with social grace.” Speak and live your truth, but do so with compassion. As a child I prided myself on being blunt, I ran about volunteering my opinion with no tact or filter. I wrote off those who were offended by my words as thin-skinned. As I aged I realized that speaking your truth does not mean volunteering unfiltered commentary on what is observed, but rather to speak truth is to use your voice to clarify and edify for the overall empowerment of those in your environment. Asparigraha, non-attachment, is one of the most challenging Yamas. In American Society we are programmed to cling to what we desire. The most common example is that of the woman who meets a guy at a bar, and gives him her phone number. If the woman proceeds to check her phone every 5 minutes for the next few days, it is clear that she is clinging to her desired outcome. However, if the woman continues without concern for whether the man will call her, then she is operating in a space of non-attachment. Attachment results in suffering. When we cease to cling to expected outcomes, embrace being present, and act without an agenda we are operating in a space of Asparigraha. Brachmacharaya relates to self-control. In our high consumption society self-control is invaluable, because we are incessantly bombarded with stimuli that arouses our desire to consume. Our country’s mantras are “Bigger is Better” and “One can never have too much”, as a result we are encouraged to ignore our impulses to act with self-control. Empowering ourselves to act with restraint allows us to have control over our desires, so that our desires are not dictating our behavior. Choosing to act with self-control will always minimize the inevitable suffering caused by excess and impulsive decisions. It is my hope that this brief exploration of the Yamas, illuminates some of the key fundamentals of Yoga philosophy for you. Dare to explore these rich roots and see where you may be able to grow. My Grandmother was instrumental in my upbringing. A spitfire, funny, go-getter she only has a 2nd grade education; yet, she taught me many things about my culture and history. She educated me in the ancient ways of the Taino & African Spiritualist healers through oral tradition. Now at 89 ½ the strong woman, who reared an entire neighborhood, spends her days in a senior home fighting a disease that is eating her memories. Alzheimer’s disease steals your memories, and erases your ability to complete small yet vital tasks like eating, talking and walking. For the aging, the issue of memory loss is one that predominates their thinking, however memory loss is something that can affect any of us at any time. When confronted with the truth of aging and memory loss the question becomes: “Is there any way to help fortify our brains so that we can minimize memory loss, even if we are diagnosed with Cognitive function disease like Alzhiemer’s?” Countless studies have discovered that Yoga may be the answer.
3 key aspects of Yoga known as Pranayama (mindful breathing), Dharana (concentration) and Dhyana (meditation) can be instrumental in the fight against memory loss. Used in combination, the 3 afore mentioned aspects of yoga have been proven to increase brain health, cognitive function and memory retention at any age. The “SA TA NA MA” exercise utilizes Pranyama, Dharana and Dhyana. This chant has been widely studied over the last decade, the chant brings our awareness to the truth of who we really are. Studies have shown that spending 8-12 minutes reciting the “Sa Ta Na Ma” chant while touching thumb to index, middle, ring and pinky fingers, respectively, produces measurable benefits in the human brain. The act of touching the thumb to the each fingertip stimulates energetic pathways to the brain which when activated bring the biorhythms of the brain into balance. Practicing the “Sa Ta Na Ma” chant has been proven to improve the mental function of individuals with Alzheimer’s as well as those without the disease. One group of Scientists found that individuals who were effected by Alzheimer’s and performed the “SA TA NA MA” chant for 12 minutes using the corresponding finger positions experienced “positive changes in mood, anxiety, and other neuropsychological parameters, and these changes correlated with changes in cerebral blood flow”[1] . These findings directly contradict the widely held belief that there is nothing that can be done to improve the brain function or memory of someone living with Alzheimer’s. Its important to note that a cognitive function disease diagnosis is not the only cause of memory loss. Doctors at the Calm Clinic highlight the correlation between stress, anxiety and memory loss noting that while they seem unrelated memory loss and anxiety go hand in hand. Anxiety and stress cause the release of Cortisol which is a toxin to the brain that has been directly linked to short term memory loss.[2] Working with Pranayama, Dharana & Dhyana will inevitably increase an individual’s mindfulness. The truth is that "[b]y simply becoming more aware of what you think, feel, say and do, you train your brain to become more organized and calm,…Stress diminishes, and life begins to feel more pleasant and rich."[3] On a biological level the combination of focusing on your breath, concentrating and meditating will help not only improve cognitive brain function but also increases brain size, reduces stress, improves brain chemistry, and improves blood flow to the brain.[4] Luckily 8-12 minutes of the secular practice detailed below, can really save your brain. I have incorporated this practice into my life, and use it often. I have seen a change in my stress levels, memory recall, and overall well being. Don’t take my word for it, try it yourself! “Sa Ta Na Ma” Exercise: First Round – Using your normal speaking voice for 2 minutes
Second Round – Using a whisper tone repeat the steps above for 2 minutes Third Round – Void of vocalization, silently intone the sounds and repeat the steps from round 1 for 2 minutes Fourth Round – for 2 minutes repeat round 2 Fifth Round – for 2 minutes repeat round 1 [1] http://www.foundhealth.com/blog/2013/04/sa-ta-na-ma-to-cure-alzheimers/ [2] http://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/signs/memory-loss [3] http://www.tampabay.com/news/aging/lifetimes/kirtan-kriya-meditation-shows-promise-in-research-of-memory-functions/1090402 [4] http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dharma-singh-khalsa-md/meditation-alzheimers_b_3625181.html Keeping our energy balanced is critically important to remaining healthy and happy. We can all use tools that help us to stay steady, productive and balanced. Yoga is a wonderful tool that can help you to not only manage but also transmute and shift your energy.
For those of you who may be unsure if you know when you energy is out of balance; here is an example: Tom is usually high energy, with a positive outlook but the last 2 or 3 days he has been easily irritable, suffering from Poor Sleep, and hasn’t been super motivated. Tom is energetically out of balance.[1] Thankfully, Yoga exists! Yoga will help you manage your energy with more ease over time. The actions that you take on the mat are nurturing the seeds of self-awareness & self-management which bloom when you are challenged off your mat. The marvelous thing about Yoga is that it can help you learn these skills with out even realizing it. Here are 3 ways that Yoga will help you manage your energy that are guaranteed to make you a happier human:
Awareness is important. Yoga means to ‘yoke’ thus the philosophy is predicated on the idea that we, each, work towards attaining unity of heart, mind, spirit, and body. When you consistently come to your mat and face the physical challenges of the practice, the by products are plentiful. Someone who has a consistent practice[2] will inevitably come into a deeper understanding of themselves. There is component of personal mastery that comes from the self-discipline required to be consistent with your Yoga practice. Once you are more connected with yourself, you will also begin to key into the various moments in your day when you may be triggered, or may have acted out of character, or behaved in manner that was inappropriate. Yoga will sharpen the picture so you can see yourself more clearly. 2. Yoga will help you become more PATIENT Things have a way of happening at their own pace. This is one of the greatest lessons Yoga can teach you. When you give your self permission to surrender to this deep truth then you also give yourself permission to be a happier human. Yoga teaches you patience first with your body, then compassion & acceptance of yourself as you are. Then, from a place of empathy and understanding we start to be inevitably become more patient with others. Remember, that the speed with which our Yoga practice increases our capacity to exercise patience is related to our efforts to surrender and simply participate in the process of personal growth. 3. Yoga will help you be more MINDFUL Yoga helps you learn to live in the present. Being in the Present is what Mindfulness is all about. We all suffer from becoming distracted and Yoga can help to nip that in the bud. Its hard to be distracted when you are balancing on one foot with your hands in the air. The practice of being mindful on your mat encourages you to be more mindful off the mat. Slowing down to be present, take in the moment and truly live. Curious if you Yoga can make you a happier human? Go out and give it a try. Want some more insight and inspiration on your personal growth journey? Check out my Podcast “WIN LIFE with AWILDA RIVERA” available on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, Overcast, Anchor, Pocketcast and ALL SMART SPEAKERS! Want to read more about Yoga visit my site: www.AwildaRivera.com . Until next time, Namste! [1] This is NOT a medical diagnosis, this list is not exhaustive and is intended to give the reader context to understand how they maybe able to identify a difference in themselves energetically. ****if you have symptoms that have persisted for 2-3 weeks that could be a related to a mental health challenge please contact a licensed physician immediately. [2] This can vary based on the person, for some people this means 3 times a week for others daily based on their physical threshold and what they are focused at this juncture in their personal development journey As I have said many times, YOGA IS NOT A RELIGION. Yet one can not ignore the fact that it seems to have some connection with some of the Eastern Religions. Most people are familiar with Yoga’s connection with Hinduism, because of the Hindu iconography found in Studios around the world. You know what I am talking about…. Paintings of Ganesha or Shiva, maybe a Hanuman statue sitting on the reception desk or a pictures of Lakshmi hung in the practice area. Moreover, there are entire lineages of Yoga predicated on ancient Hindu philosophies found in Sacred texts like The Bahgavad Gita. But did you know that there is a link between Yoga and the ancient philosophies of Buddhism??
Buddhism is one of the oldest religions in the world. Many of its philosophies are predicated on ending suffering of all being through the daily practice of Compassion, Self Reflection and Mindfulness. Similarly, the true practice of Yoga is the challenging undertaking of choosing to combine meaningful actions and intentional behaviors in order to be your best self – on and off the mat. There are even more striking similarities that will not only highlight some of the linkages between yoga and Buddhism, but also explain why lineage there are also entire lineages of Yoga based on these ancient Buddhist teachings, like Purna Yoga. One of the most fundamental connection is between the Eight Fold Path and the 8 limbs of Yoga. The Eight Fold path is the over all guideline for those choosing to adopt Buddhist philosophies. Likewise, the 8 limbs of yoga give a guideline to those choosing to practice Yoga as a method for living their best life. 8 limbs of YOGA
8 FOLD PATH
When its laid out in this fashion the overlap between Yoga & Buddhism is more evident. Ethical Discipline, Moral Conduct, Compassion, Meditation & Self Awareness take center stage across when we take a closer look at the connection between Yoga & Buddhism. But Why does this matter anyway? There are tons of misconceptions about Yoga. The errant idea that Yoga is Hinduism or a Religion of its own is silly. Yoga is a dedicated practice of self- improvement with some roots in the ancient philosophies that were prevalent at the time when it was created. At the end of the day Yoga is NOT Hinduism. Yoga is NOT Buddhism. Are there tenants of each that can be linked to the underlying philosophies of Yoga, ABSOLUTELY. Whether you can relate more to the philosophies of one or the other as a means to help you get more connected to your yoga practice is your personal choice. There are some Yogis who choose to embrace the whole spectrum of Yoga and its subsequent interconnections, some choose to embrace only certain synergies and still other have found a way to practice in such a way that neither effect them. The truth is that the aspects of Eastern Religions that have been incorporated into Yoga over time have added to the beauty of the woven tapestry of philosophy, movement and meaningful action that is YOGA. To live we must breathe. It is the oxygenation of the blood and brain that keeps us going. The way we breathe affects our mood, energy level and ability to function.
In Yoga the breath is SUPER IMPORTANT. Pranayama, also know as the Yogic Breathing, is the practice of conscious breathing as a method to help control ones vital energy. Therefore having the ability to tap into your breath as a source of self control and power can have absolutely liberating effects! Conscious breathing encourages us to embrace the present moment, and be mindful. In this era of cellphones, ipads, & smart watches we are constantly being notified about everything from our friend’s recent engagement to airline price drops. We can be so focused on the future or past that we are totally disconnected from the reality of the NOW. When the focus is on the breath, you are not thinking, saying or doing anything else; as a result, you must be completely present in the moment. The differences between Pranayama (Yogic Breathing) and regular breathing are: (1) conscious awareness & (2) the technique. Yogic philosophy believes that we can create different effects in our mind & bodies with our conscious breathing. I want to share 3 basic Pranayama Techniques with you that you can try at home: Sama Vata Pranayama, Sitali Pranayama, Nodhi Sodhana Pranayama. A WORD OF ADVICE BEFORE YOU DIVE IN: I would recommend trying each of these techniques for at least 5-7 minutes in order to truly get the full experience. You can sit in a chair that has back support with feet firmly planted and palms face up OR you can sit cross legged with your back against a wall and palms face up on your thighs. Make sure to gently firm your abdominals while you are seated to give your back extra support. If sitting is extremely uncomfortable do to lack of mobility then you can try the techniques while laying down; however make sure not to get so comfortable that you fall asleep. Sama vata Pranayama - equal length breath. This calming & grounding breath uses nasal breathing to queque the ‘rest & digest’ or Parasympathetic nervous system. The goal is to reach equal pressure, length and speed of breath on inhalation & exhalation. The trick is to relax the palette of the mouth, muscles of the face and body, focusing only on the sensation of the air moving in and out of your nose. You can count internally – if you are concerned about having an accurate measure of the breath. Sitali Pranayam – cooling breath. This breath is used if you are over heated or need to refresh yourself. You inhale through parted lips, the air is cooled as it moves over your slightly protruding, flattened tongue. Then you exhale through the nose. The goal is to allow this cool breath to cool the body and ground the mind through physical sensation. Nodhi Sodhana – balancing breath. This breath is used to energetically balance the left & right side of the body. After taking several deep breaths using both nostrils, breathe in deeply, then use the index finger to cover the left nostril. Breathe out of the Right nostril, and then breathe in the Right nostril. Release your left nostril and cover your right nostril. Exhale through your right nostril, then inhale using your right nostril. REPEAT breath with alternating nostril closed several times. Once complete release nostrils take BIG breath in through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Don’t worry about getting these techniques perfect the first time. Don’t judge your busy mind when it vacillates from thought to thought as it begins to learn to calm down. Simply give yourself permission to practice with out judgment. Make your aim incremental progress rather than instant mastery. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy practicing Pranayama. Now that you have a handful of technique to try, take a seat, slow down and just breathe….until Next time, Namaste! 8/6/2018 0 Comments Yoga Heals...Yoga heals. There are tons of scientific research studies that confirm this to be true. However I want to share my own personal story of healing with you all this month.
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| Have you laughed recently? Laughter is important and essential to our health. However, we find our selves living in uncertain times full of contention and disharmony. Many are calling for a return to compassion and understanding, I also believe we need to promote Joy. Laughter Yoga is one way to increase your Joy quotient immediately. Believe it or not this in not a new age Western practice but an Eastern Original. Laughter Yoga is real. It’s the practice of combining Laughter Sounds, Mudras (hand postures) and in some cases light asana. Studies examining the effectiveness of laughter yoga in the work place found that when employees participated in laughter yoga they experienced a 6% reduction in stress level, a 27% decrease in negative feelings and a 17% increase in positive feelings. [1] Those percentages indicate significant & measurable changes. I have experienced the benefits of laughter yoga personally. My younger students LOVE it when I incorporate laughter yoga poses into their classes. Not surprisingly, adults also enjoy laughter yoga. Adults often look surprised at their level of enjoyment once they let themselves surrender to the activity. Laughter is said to hyper oxygenate the brain and release twice as much carbon dioxide as regular respiration. Life is tough, we should laugh as much as we possibly can. Any exercise that promotes more stress reduction, decreased negative emotional & increased positive feelings is at least worth trying once. Of course, before I send you off to dive into this practice there are a few things I need to tell you. When you begin to practice laughter yoga you are actively unblocking energy channels and performing what can be categorized as an energetic cleanse. When we endeavor to cleanse our selves energetically it can result in all manner of emotions coming to the surface that have been stuck in our energy channels for an unidentified extent of time. As a result, people may be moved to tears after a laughter yoga session, because the body is getting rid of the heavy energies to make room for the lighter energies ushered in through your laughter yoga practice. Its completely normal, embrace the release and lean into the lighter energy. Interested in trying some laughter yoga yourself? Here are 3 laughter yoga exercises from Laughter Online University[2] that are guaranteed to get you going: 1. Age Laughter: Imagine how your laugh would sound when you are double your current age; half of your current age; 10/20/30 years older; ten years younger; as a child; as an infant; 95 / 5. 2. Bored Laughter: Fake it until you make it (sic). 3. Animal Laughter: donkey; pig snorts; dog woofs; Cheshire cat caterwauls; hoot owls; chimpanzees; gorillas Give it a try and see what happens. You may enjoy it more than you expect. If you need help letting go, do the exercise with someone under 10. Kids are great at laughter yoga. Until Next time Yogis…. Footnotes: [1] http://laughteryoga.org/laughteryoga-in-business/ [2] http://www.laughteronlineuniversity.com/150-laughter-exercises/ | Archives March 2018 CategoriesAll Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga |
3/8/2018 0 Comments
A Closer Look: Contentment
by Awilda Rivera
Originally published in Jun. 2016 In Aquarius Magazine for her long running column "Under The Bodhi Tree"
For many Yoga consists of going to a studio to move mindfully, taking time to just be on the mat, in the moment without judgment. For some there is no interest in intellectualizing Yoga through study of its ancient philosophies or the methods at its core. Yet for others, there can be no mindful movement without also engaging in a dedicated study of ancient Yogic philosophies. You might wonder: Can the person who simply enjoys doing yoga asana have a complete yoga practice without studying its ancient philosophical roots?
The quick answer is: Yes! Yoga does not discriminate; it is for everyone. Each person comes to Yoga looking for something different, and ultimately finds what they need. There is no right or wrong way to approach it. The truth is that the person who comes to yoga to move mindfully & simply be is experientially learning Yogic philosophy. The root of the word Yoga is Yug, it means to yoke together as one. Yoga is about creating a complete unity of mind, body & spirit that organically produces contentment.
In yoga philosophy there are ten (10) fundamental principles that help to inform one’s interactions both with the world[1] and with themselves[2]. Contentment is one of the principles that relates to how you interact with yourself.[3] Contentment is categorized by ones ability to be present in the moment without judgment of yourself or others, while detached from past or future outcomes.
People find contentment through their yoga practice in many ways. Some people find contentment in just being on the mat doing yoga, others find contentment through the combination of movement and deeper study of Self through the lens of Yoga[4]. Ultimately regardless of the category you are in, both groups can produce individual who find contentment easier to attain off of the mat because of the contentment they have cultivated on the mat.
When I first began practicing Yoga I was contented to simply be on my mat breathing, present in the moment. However, I was unable to hold onto that contentment once outside the studio. As soon as I got into the hallway or into my car all my responsibilities and cares would resurface, rushing to the forefront of my mind. I would allow myself to be overwhelmed with frustration, until I decided that if I allowed myself to be ok with being able to reach a state of clam during the class, then I could be content.
After almost a year, I wanted to understand more of the why of Yoga so I decided to read BKS Iyengar’s “Tree of Yoga”. As I read, I started to feel more energetically connected to the physical movements and the moments of solace I was finding on the mat during class. As I read, the internal desire to take the contentment I found on the mat into the world began to grow. I realized I didn’t have to limit my contentment to confines of a studio or moment during class, I could be contentment whenever I wanted for whatever reason I wanted. I began to proactively apply the same ideas of balance, breath, and contentment to everyday situations that would have otherwise lead to anxiety or anger. Initially it was extremely challenging to breathe through a moment of anger, hold my perspective in a positive space and take action from a place of calm compassion. However, after a lot of practice it has become easier, while I am not perfect I am able to more easily identify: why I am, when I became, and how long I feel like remaining upset or anxious.
Accidentally cultivating contentment through Yoga has only had a beneficial effect on my life. Becoming aware of cultivating contentment has resulted in the realization that contentment begins within me. Contentment directly relates to your perspective, it does not require that you be complacent or simply accept life passively but it demands an awareness of self and individual choice. Therefore, whether you study the philosophy or simply like to show up to move mindfully, as long as you are allowing yourself to be present in the moment without judgment of yourself or others, while detached from past or future outcomes, then you will experience a complete yoga practice. Not sure what the end goal of all this contentment is? Pantajali educates us that “[f]rom Contentment one gains Supreme Happiness.” [5] Not sure you believe him? Take a crack at it over the next month and see if your happiness quotient increases.
[1] Yamas – Set of 5 priniciples that help to dictate how one should interact with the world
[2] NiYama – set of 5 priniciples that help to dictate how one should treat themselves
[3] Santosha in Sanskrit
[4] Svadhaya – the yogic principle of Self Study encourages that one utilize yoga as an opportunity to dive deep within to learn more about yourself
[5] Yoga Sutras of Pantajali: As interpreted by Makunda Stiles; Sutra II, 42; p. 27
The quick answer is: Yes! Yoga does not discriminate; it is for everyone. Each person comes to Yoga looking for something different, and ultimately finds what they need. There is no right or wrong way to approach it. The truth is that the person who comes to yoga to move mindfully & simply be is experientially learning Yogic philosophy. The root of the word Yoga is Yug, it means to yoke together as one. Yoga is about creating a complete unity of mind, body & spirit that organically produces contentment.
In yoga philosophy there are ten (10) fundamental principles that help to inform one’s interactions both with the world[1] and with themselves[2]. Contentment is one of the principles that relates to how you interact with yourself.[3] Contentment is categorized by ones ability to be present in the moment without judgment of yourself or others, while detached from past or future outcomes.
People find contentment through their yoga practice in many ways. Some people find contentment in just being on the mat doing yoga, others find contentment through the combination of movement and deeper study of Self through the lens of Yoga[4]. Ultimately regardless of the category you are in, both groups can produce individual who find contentment easier to attain off of the mat because of the contentment they have cultivated on the mat.
When I first began practicing Yoga I was contented to simply be on my mat breathing, present in the moment. However, I was unable to hold onto that contentment once outside the studio. As soon as I got into the hallway or into my car all my responsibilities and cares would resurface, rushing to the forefront of my mind. I would allow myself to be overwhelmed with frustration, until I decided that if I allowed myself to be ok with being able to reach a state of clam during the class, then I could be content.
After almost a year, I wanted to understand more of the why of Yoga so I decided to read BKS Iyengar’s “Tree of Yoga”. As I read, I started to feel more energetically connected to the physical movements and the moments of solace I was finding on the mat during class. As I read, the internal desire to take the contentment I found on the mat into the world began to grow. I realized I didn’t have to limit my contentment to confines of a studio or moment during class, I could be contentment whenever I wanted for whatever reason I wanted. I began to proactively apply the same ideas of balance, breath, and contentment to everyday situations that would have otherwise lead to anxiety or anger. Initially it was extremely challenging to breathe through a moment of anger, hold my perspective in a positive space and take action from a place of calm compassion. However, after a lot of practice it has become easier, while I am not perfect I am able to more easily identify: why I am, when I became, and how long I feel like remaining upset or anxious.
Accidentally cultivating contentment through Yoga has only had a beneficial effect on my life. Becoming aware of cultivating contentment has resulted in the realization that contentment begins within me. Contentment directly relates to your perspective, it does not require that you be complacent or simply accept life passively but it demands an awareness of self and individual choice. Therefore, whether you study the philosophy or simply like to show up to move mindfully, as long as you are allowing yourself to be present in the moment without judgment of yourself or others, while detached from past or future outcomes, then you will experience a complete yoga practice. Not sure what the end goal of all this contentment is? Pantajali educates us that “[f]rom Contentment one gains Supreme Happiness.” [5] Not sure you believe him? Take a crack at it over the next month and see if your happiness quotient increases.
[1] Yamas – Set of 5 priniciples that help to dictate how one should interact with the world
[2] NiYama – set of 5 priniciples that help to dictate how one should treat themselves
[3] Santosha in Sanskrit
[4] Svadhaya – the yogic principle of Self Study encourages that one utilize yoga as an opportunity to dive deep within to learn more about yourself
[5] Yoga Sutras of Pantajali: As interpreted by Makunda Stiles; Sutra II, 42; p. 27
2/22/2018 0 Comments
Mindfulness 101
by Awilda Rivera
Originally published in Dec. 2017 In Aquarius Magazine for her long running column "Under The Bodhi Tree"
| The Yoga-fication of the West has brought our collective attention to several other Eastern practices that are believed to greatly enhance the quality of one’s daily life. One such practice & concept is that of Mindfulness, which has gained significant traction over the last 2 decades. There are a plethora of books, courses, workshops and websites dedicated to encouraging mindfulness, but what is it? Mindfulness is the experience of: (1) being present in the moment while (2) having an acute awareness of your environment, stimuli, and behavior coupled with (3) an appreciation of what is happening in the moment. If you are freaking out…I understand this can be a lot to process. We live in fast paced society where this kind of presence of mind would mean we would have to focus on one thing at a time. If you are someone who prides yourself on multitasking Mindfulness can be a very challenging idea. Thankfully mindfulness can be experienced in a moment as normal as eating a Tangerine. The world renowned teacher Thich Nhat Hanh summarizes an experience he had with a friend who sat thinking about an impending project while quickly eating a Tangerine. Thich recalls, “He was hardly aware he was eating a tangerine…It was as if he hadn’t been eating the tangerine at all.”[1] Thich goes on to suggest that if we are moving so quickly that we are failing to be present enough to be aware of what we are currently doing, then are we doing anything at all? Think about it, how many times have you thought to yourself: “where did the month go? week, year, day?” During those periods of time where you living mindfully? Savoring each moment like the section of the tangerine OR were you going through the motions mindlessly, simply existing rather than living? Mindfulness is the awareness that ultimately allows us to truly live each day to the fullest. When we are present for each moment, with out judgment, appreciating the reality of it then we can rejoice in the beauty of our human experience. It may be difficult to conceptualize Mindfulness, but once you begin to practice Mindfulness it becomes easy to both incorporate that presence of mind into everything you do & identify when you are living mindlessly. We all have to start somewhere. If you are completely new to the idea of mindfulness or if you have had some issues really digging in, here are some easily accessible ways to kick start your practice:
The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh, it is full of wonderful examples of how to become more present. All of his books are great! Other fantastic resources for cultivating mindfulness are the works of Pema Chodron, and His Holiness The Dali Lama. While Meditation is not mindfulness, a healthy meditation practice grounded in the things that challenge you can also help you become more mindful. Go forward, unafraid to be present, embrace the moment and enjoy the reality of what is right now. Until next time…. [1] Hanh, Thich Nhat - The miracle of Mindfulness, p. 5 | Archives February 2018 CategoriesAll Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga |
2/8/2018 0 Comments
A Closer Look: Niyamas
by Awilda Rivera
Originally published in 2016 In Aquarius Magazine for her long running column "Under The Bodhi Tree" under the heading 'Niyamas'
| nYoga is not just about putting your legs behind your head. The practice of yoga is steeped in ancient philosophies that are supposed to help to inform the intent & focus of the student. In order to completely understand this, one must first accept that the tree of Yoga has 8 limbs, of which Asana is one. The other 7 limbs are equally if not more important than Asana, even though the physical practice seems to get the most attention in the west. The Trunk of the tree is the Niyamas. The Niyamas provide the yogi a rubric for dealing with herself. The roots of the tree of Yoga are the Yamas. The Yamas give guidance about how to interact with the world around us. This piece aims to focus on the NiYamas. In this hectic, busy and uncertain world its is becoming clear that the only thing in our control is ourselves. The Niyama’s are an ancient yet elegant check list that keep us grounded and focused on being our best selves at all times. These “observances” highlight the 5 areas that ancient yoga philosophers believed were of utmost importance. The Niyamas are: Saucha (purification), Samtosa (Contentment), Tapas (asceticism), Svadhyaya (Self-Study), Ishvara Prandihana (devotion) Saucha, often translated as clealiness, isn’t just about keeping your home clean but also the purity of your being. Keeping selves clean refers to the actions required to keep our bodies healthy, so that we have both fully functioning organs and a clear mind. [1] Keeping the body clean has become increasingly easier as general awareness has increase about our food sources and food processing practices. However, keeping the Mind clear has become increasingly more difficult as technology has evolved resulting in a relentless barrage of cell phone notifications and updates. Humans are so over stimulated by their technological devices that finding a quiet moment to still the mind and get clear their mind is incredibly challenging for most. Samtosa, simply stated means contentment. The idea that one should be satisfied and happy with what they have, in other words loving what is rather than despairing about what could be. “From contentment one gains Supreme Happiness.”[2] (Sutra of Patanjali - II.42) Contentment is a real issue in the developed world, especially when folks are focused on trying to catch up with Instagram Influencers flashing Stacks of cash on the beach and working non-stop towards a goal of either corporate dominance or entrepreneurial stardom. Samtosa is a straight forward yet complex idea that is intended to cover all aspects of your life. In other words, “it is about ourselves – what we have and how we feel about what God has given us.”[3] Don’t get caught up on the G-word, the point is that if we are able to focus on being appreciative and grateful for what the Universe has provided and what we have done to get to the present moment, then we will be more able to experience joy for what is in each moment. Tapa also known as self-discipline, refers predominately to the business staying physically fit. Cultivating clean eating habits, healthy breathing patterns, aligned body posture, & moderating our nutrient intake are all apart of Tapas. Fortunately in our body conscious world this is not such a big ask. However, many still struggle with self-discipline when it comes to follow through. It is one thing to think of a new course of action, it is quite another thing for to take a take a new course of action and see that plan through to completion. However having a healthy self-awareness is essential to keeping one honest. When a person begins to lack self-discipline, she is the only on that knows it and she is only one that can take the action to regain that discipline. Tapas is ultimately about follow through, commitment & knowing yourself well enough to keep yourself accountable. Svadhyaya means Self Study. The Sutra’s say “From self-study comes communion with ones personal diety.” (Sutra II.44)[4] Studying yourself is a necessary pursuit. Knowledge of self comes from the pursuit of mental, physical & spiritual growth. The practice of Yoga promotes that in a multitude of ways, the philosophy of Svadhyaya makes it clear that the purpose of Yoga is to help you turn the mirror on YOURSELF so that you can become deeply connected with your truth – whatever that may be. The bonus is effect of deep, sincere Self-Study is a more salient connection with the Divine. For some the Divine is represented by a particular Religious figure, for others it is seen in the elegance of science, yet others believe in some greater disembodied energetic force (i.e. The Universe). Regardless of what you believe, digging in deep and daring to study yourself will inevitably open a path for you to feel oneness with forces greater than yourself. Isvaraprandihana is a tricky one. While many translate this as “devotion to God” other texts provide us with an explanation that more truly captures the secular yet spiritual nature of Yoga. BKS Iyengar helps us to understand that Devotion and Surrender are at the core of this concept.[5] The idea is to be very intentional with your acts in such that you are both comfortably detached from the need to have your behavior reciprocated and are also able to separate yourself from your acts. Growing in your selflessness through your acts allows you to experience your humanity and spiritual oneness. The Devotion and detachment from the reciprocation lead to a complete selfless surrender that ultimately reinforces your Divine Connection. With a combination of complexity and practical simplicity, the Niyamas offer us an incredible guideline for taking care of not only our physical body, but also our mind and spirit. The Niyamas help us to understand that our actions must be guided by: a deep understanding and commitment to ourselves, a sense of joy in our current circumstance, and an acceptance of our Divine connection. Its almost a cheat sheet to healthy, happy, drama free living!!! Until Next time…… [1] Heart of Yoga, TKV Descihachar (p. 101) [2] Yoga Sutras Of Pantajali: As Interpreted by Mukunda Stiles (p.27) [3] Heart of Yoga, TKV Descihachar (p. 101) [4] Yoga Sutras Of Pantajali: As Interpreted by Mukunda Stiles (p.28) [5] The Tree of Yoga, BKS Iyengar (p.51) | CategoriesAll Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga Archives March 2018 |
by Awilda Rivera
originally published February 2017 in Aquarius Magazine
Corporations are no longer satisfied with being the best in their industry, or the marketplace. The new end game is “Being the best place to work”. Making a place the “best” can include all manner of things from LinkedIn’s free gourmet cafeteria to Google’s internal coaching program. However, employers have started to realize that there is a correlation between their workforce’s level of happiness and the success of their company.
Mindfulness practices have emerged as one of the focal points of a new wave of corporate employee benefit initiatives. A 2015 study conducted by the University of Warwick's Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy shows that happy employees are 12% more productive.[1] Consequently in their search for the magic solution to increase happiness in the workforce, these companies discovered that offering Yoga during office hours could achieve their intended objective.
Yoga gives employees an opportunity to quiet their minds, move their bodies and build a foundation for mindfulness while being in the environment where they spend most of their waking hours, Work.
Yoga in the workplace has become popular over the last 3-4 years with top-level companies like Apple, McKinsey & Co., HBO, & Proctor and Gamble offering yoga on site during working hours. [2] It is actually quiet easy to offer Yoga in the work place because minimal equipment is needed. All that is required is a large meeting area, cleared of all furniture and a Yoga Alliance certified instructor. Employees can be encouraged to bring their own mats or the company can provide them.
Of course, the style of yoga being taught during the workday needs match the needs of the employees. In Atlanta, Home Depot offers Yoga on site during working hours to their employees through their company gym. The style of yoga taught there is rather rigorous because that is what the employees want, and Home Depot has showers on site to provide their workforce with an opportunity to bathe after such a rigorous practice. In alternative, at a company that does not possess shower facilities on site a lower impact practice may be more appropriate.
A gentle restorative yoga practice would be ideal for companies where there is a call center on site, have a focus on high volume business transactions, that deal with a lot of time sensitive negotiations, or have stringent project deadlines. A passive yoga practice would provide a welcome shift from the high level of intensity required by the job. Ultimately, happier employees are more productive employees. Happy employees are less likely to leave their company, and if they do leave they are more likely to sing the praises of their former employer. For businesses who depend on a their employees being sharp to succeed, Yoga may be the secret weapon for success in this new era of corporate evolution.
**If you are interested in bringing Yoga to your company please feel free to contact me directly at [email protected]
[1] http://fortune.com/2015/10/29/happy-productivity-work/
[2] http://www.onlinemba.com/blog/10-big-companies-that-promote-employee-meditation/
Mindfulness practices have emerged as one of the focal points of a new wave of corporate employee benefit initiatives. A 2015 study conducted by the University of Warwick's Centre for Competitive Advantage in the Global Economy shows that happy employees are 12% more productive.[1] Consequently in their search for the magic solution to increase happiness in the workforce, these companies discovered that offering Yoga during office hours could achieve their intended objective.
Yoga gives employees an opportunity to quiet their minds, move their bodies and build a foundation for mindfulness while being in the environment where they spend most of their waking hours, Work.
Yoga in the workplace has become popular over the last 3-4 years with top-level companies like Apple, McKinsey & Co., HBO, & Proctor and Gamble offering yoga on site during working hours. [2] It is actually quiet easy to offer Yoga in the work place because minimal equipment is needed. All that is required is a large meeting area, cleared of all furniture and a Yoga Alliance certified instructor. Employees can be encouraged to bring their own mats or the company can provide them.
Of course, the style of yoga being taught during the workday needs match the needs of the employees. In Atlanta, Home Depot offers Yoga on site during working hours to their employees through their company gym. The style of yoga taught there is rather rigorous because that is what the employees want, and Home Depot has showers on site to provide their workforce with an opportunity to bathe after such a rigorous practice. In alternative, at a company that does not possess shower facilities on site a lower impact practice may be more appropriate.
A gentle restorative yoga practice would be ideal for companies where there is a call center on site, have a focus on high volume business transactions, that deal with a lot of time sensitive negotiations, or have stringent project deadlines. A passive yoga practice would provide a welcome shift from the high level of intensity required by the job. Ultimately, happier employees are more productive employees. Happy employees are less likely to leave their company, and if they do leave they are more likely to sing the praises of their former employer. For businesses who depend on a their employees being sharp to succeed, Yoga may be the secret weapon for success in this new era of corporate evolution.
**If you are interested in bringing Yoga to your company please feel free to contact me directly at [email protected]
[1] http://fortune.com/2015/10/29/happy-productivity-work/
[2] http://www.onlinemba.com/blog/10-big-companies-that-promote-employee-meditation/
Categories
All Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga
by Awilda Rivera
originally published in Aquarius Magazine in 2016
For the last 12 months, we have explored questions around the practice, purpose and benefits of Yoga Asana. We have taken time to explore some of the philosophical underpinnings of this historically rich tradition; and we have also discussed how to identify & begin a physical yoga practice that resonates with your soul. Yet, we have only begun to scatch the surface. All we have discussed relate primarily to the physical practice of Yoga Asana and all that comes with it.
The question remains: Can Yoga exist off the Mat, with out Asana being involved?
Yes! There are several types of Yoga that exist. As westerners we are most commonly acquainted with Hatha & Raja Yoga[1]. Hatha & Raja Yoga contain an essential element of physicality that is very attractive to busy people in the west who are looking to exercise their body in an intentional. It is through this intentional exercise that they hope to achieve balance, increased self-awareness, and ideally inner peace – also know as enlightenment.
Bahkti Yoga exists devoid of required physicality. It is known as: The Yoga of Love, The Yoga of Devotion, The Yoga of Devotion To God. Ultimately, this is the Yoga of Surrender to the Divine. There is neither a Diety in particular to whom you must devote yourself, nor one idea; however, in order to surrender completely you must devote yourself to something greater than yourself. The devotion to something greater need not take a shape or personage, but it can be simply embracing the Divine Love and connection we all share OR the Beauty of Nature all around us in every living thing.
In a modern western world, it is understandable that we modify the application of the ancient principles of Bahkti Yoga to fit our realistic needs. Therefore you many not feel called to sing Kirtan, chant mantras every morning, or set an altar with deities to whom you pray directly… and that’s OK! There are may ways you can tap into the spirit of Bahkti Yoga such as: volunteering, giving food to the homeless, dedicating the energy your physical Yoga practice to someone who is in need, interacting with all around you from a place of unconditional love & non-judgment, or immersing yourself in nature so that you can appreciate the beauty of the world around you.
Bahkti Yoga is not a RELIGION. It is just another avenue available to those who are looking to connect with the Divine through a unity with the world around them. While I would certainly encourage you all to experience a Kirtan performance and research mantras, I understand that for some of you that will not resonate. The great news is that in this brave new world, we have the opportunity to take the powerful ideas of Bahkti Yoga: Love – Devotion – Connection with the Divine, and find ways in our everyday lives to organically engage in this fulfilling and empowering practice. How will you bring a little Bhakti Yoga into your life?
Until next time…. Namaste!!
[1] You may be unfamiliar with Raja Yoga, however it is the Original Form of classical Yoga from which 90% of yoga lineages found in west were derived. It is also known as the ‘8 limbed path’ of Yoga. Hatha Yoga is more commonly known as ‘Sun Moon’ Yoga as is focused on using the body as a vehicle to transform the conscious of an individual.
The question remains: Can Yoga exist off the Mat, with out Asana being involved?
Yes! There are several types of Yoga that exist. As westerners we are most commonly acquainted with Hatha & Raja Yoga[1]. Hatha & Raja Yoga contain an essential element of physicality that is very attractive to busy people in the west who are looking to exercise their body in an intentional. It is through this intentional exercise that they hope to achieve balance, increased self-awareness, and ideally inner peace – also know as enlightenment.
Bahkti Yoga exists devoid of required physicality. It is known as: The Yoga of Love, The Yoga of Devotion, The Yoga of Devotion To God. Ultimately, this is the Yoga of Surrender to the Divine. There is neither a Diety in particular to whom you must devote yourself, nor one idea; however, in order to surrender completely you must devote yourself to something greater than yourself. The devotion to something greater need not take a shape or personage, but it can be simply embracing the Divine Love and connection we all share OR the Beauty of Nature all around us in every living thing.
In a modern western world, it is understandable that we modify the application of the ancient principles of Bahkti Yoga to fit our realistic needs. Therefore you many not feel called to sing Kirtan, chant mantras every morning, or set an altar with deities to whom you pray directly… and that’s OK! There are may ways you can tap into the spirit of Bahkti Yoga such as: volunteering, giving food to the homeless, dedicating the energy your physical Yoga practice to someone who is in need, interacting with all around you from a place of unconditional love & non-judgment, or immersing yourself in nature so that you can appreciate the beauty of the world around you.
Bahkti Yoga is not a RELIGION. It is just another avenue available to those who are looking to connect with the Divine through a unity with the world around them. While I would certainly encourage you all to experience a Kirtan performance and research mantras, I understand that for some of you that will not resonate. The great news is that in this brave new world, we have the opportunity to take the powerful ideas of Bahkti Yoga: Love – Devotion – Connection with the Divine, and find ways in our everyday lives to organically engage in this fulfilling and empowering practice. How will you bring a little Bhakti Yoga into your life?
Until next time…. Namaste!!
[1] You may be unfamiliar with Raja Yoga, however it is the Original Form of classical Yoga from which 90% of yoga lineages found in west were derived. It is also known as the ‘8 limbed path’ of Yoga. Hatha Yoga is more commonly known as ‘Sun Moon’ Yoga as is focused on using the body as a vehicle to transform the conscious of an individual.
Categories
All Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga
by Awilda Rivera
originally published in Aquarius Magazine in 2016
There are a million Yoga Magazines, Websites and Home resources these days. The availability of DIY Yoga has provided many with a low cost introduction to Yoga Asana & Philosophy. The prevalence of these resources has created a false sense of security for those who avoid Yoga Studios like the plague. Many ask: “Why pay for a class at a Yoga Studio when I can get a Yoga YouTube video for Free?”
The truth is Yoga Asana can cause injury if not done properly. Over the last 10 years there has been considerable debate and discussion about the dangers of Yoga. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, one thing is undeniable: One can get hurt practicing Yoga incorrectly.
Any activity where you are engaging in physical movement can cause injury. Although Yoga is low impact, the risk of injury is still present. Even the most basic Asana can injure you, if done improperly. Learning the safest way to move into & hold a Downward Dog is something that is difficult to learn from a video or magazine. One may look at a picture of a person in Downward Dog and think, “Oh that’s easy! All I have to do is put my self in a Upside Down ’V’ shape.” However, incorrectly holding Downward dog over time can cause serious rotator cuff, elbow, wrist and shoulder problems. I am not suggesting that one must execute the pose perfectly to avoid injury, but rather that an awareness of proper alignment is essesential to a safe & sustainable Yoga Asana practice.
Many of you are thinking, “For $20 a class I’ll take my chances and move slowly through a FREE Yoga video.” I will admit initially I, too, let my opinion about how much Yoga Studio classes cost dictate how I felt about learning from a real person. I was completely opposed to paying any money to practice Yoga so I began to explore Youtube. Quickly, it became apparent that there was a wide variety of teachers & teaching styles available on the Web.
Left to my own devices, I risked it all as I dove into various styles. Determined to get the most out of the free internet resources I chose the most seemingly reputable teacher and practiced with the video. Lacking the guidance of a trained teacher, I forced myself into shapes, attempting to watch the computer and mimic the instructor. I was attempting to run with out knowing how to walk. Not only was I failing to get the most out of the free videos, but I also wasn’t learning anything. Ultimately, I was left with a sore wrist, achy lower back & more questions than answers about the appropriate way to practice Yoga Asana.
It was not until I attended my first studio classes that I became acquainted with the fundamental Yoga alignment principals through demonstration. It was invaluable to be able to watch a knowledgeable instructor perform the Asana and then have that instructor provide me with feedback about modifications that can help me achieve the posture more safely in my body. Additionally, the instructor’s reminders to “find your edge and pull back” were critical to the process of developing physical, muscular and sensory awareness in my body. “The most important reason a person should attend a studio class, is to learn what they should and should not be feeling in their body,” says Physical Therapist Kara Strauss. She adds, “having an experienced teacher look at your body & provide modifications can be the difference between a safe practice and getting hurt. The cost of rehabbing an injury is exponentially greater than the cost of attending a few yoga classes to learn the basics.”
There is nothing wrong with saving a few bucks and cultivating an Asana home practice. One must simply take the time to learn the basics from a knowledgeable, certified, professional so you have a strong foundation. If you lack an understanding of the fundamentals of Yoga alignment principals, and venture into the world of DIY Yoga, what you are risking could be worth more than the money you save by avoiding the studio. Spend the money & practice safe. Your body is worth it.
The truth is Yoga Asana can cause injury if not done properly. Over the last 10 years there has been considerable debate and discussion about the dangers of Yoga. Regardless of where you stand on the issue, one thing is undeniable: One can get hurt practicing Yoga incorrectly.
Any activity where you are engaging in physical movement can cause injury. Although Yoga is low impact, the risk of injury is still present. Even the most basic Asana can injure you, if done improperly. Learning the safest way to move into & hold a Downward Dog is something that is difficult to learn from a video or magazine. One may look at a picture of a person in Downward Dog and think, “Oh that’s easy! All I have to do is put my self in a Upside Down ’V’ shape.” However, incorrectly holding Downward dog over time can cause serious rotator cuff, elbow, wrist and shoulder problems. I am not suggesting that one must execute the pose perfectly to avoid injury, but rather that an awareness of proper alignment is essesential to a safe & sustainable Yoga Asana practice.
Many of you are thinking, “For $20 a class I’ll take my chances and move slowly through a FREE Yoga video.” I will admit initially I, too, let my opinion about how much Yoga Studio classes cost dictate how I felt about learning from a real person. I was completely opposed to paying any money to practice Yoga so I began to explore Youtube. Quickly, it became apparent that there was a wide variety of teachers & teaching styles available on the Web.
Left to my own devices, I risked it all as I dove into various styles. Determined to get the most out of the free internet resources I chose the most seemingly reputable teacher and practiced with the video. Lacking the guidance of a trained teacher, I forced myself into shapes, attempting to watch the computer and mimic the instructor. I was attempting to run with out knowing how to walk. Not only was I failing to get the most out of the free videos, but I also wasn’t learning anything. Ultimately, I was left with a sore wrist, achy lower back & more questions than answers about the appropriate way to practice Yoga Asana.
It was not until I attended my first studio classes that I became acquainted with the fundamental Yoga alignment principals through demonstration. It was invaluable to be able to watch a knowledgeable instructor perform the Asana and then have that instructor provide me with feedback about modifications that can help me achieve the posture more safely in my body. Additionally, the instructor’s reminders to “find your edge and pull back” were critical to the process of developing physical, muscular and sensory awareness in my body. “The most important reason a person should attend a studio class, is to learn what they should and should not be feeling in their body,” says Physical Therapist Kara Strauss. She adds, “having an experienced teacher look at your body & provide modifications can be the difference between a safe practice and getting hurt. The cost of rehabbing an injury is exponentially greater than the cost of attending a few yoga classes to learn the basics.”
There is nothing wrong with saving a few bucks and cultivating an Asana home practice. One must simply take the time to learn the basics from a knowledgeable, certified, professional so you have a strong foundation. If you lack an understanding of the fundamentals of Yoga alignment principals, and venture into the world of DIY Yoga, what you are risking could be worth more than the money you save by avoiding the studio. Spend the money & practice safe. Your body is worth it.
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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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