It is a well-established scientific fact
that physical exercise improves the mood and reduces stress. As a yoga
instructor I have certainly found this to be true. I have seen students not
only become physically fitter but also calmer and more relaxed as a result of
doing yoga regularly. My experiences are also supported by researchers, who
have examined the connection between ...
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relaxation
Special Relaxation & Kriya Session for Yoga Teachers from Hungary – Sept 30, 2019
I had the opportunity to meet many yoga teachers from halfway across the world. Some Hungarian yoga teachers on a trip to India came by The Yoga Institute, Santa Cruz East, where I conducted a Special Relaxation and Kriya Session for them.
It was a fun mingling of cultures. We had a translator who helped with the communication bit. It felt great to spread our Yogic knowledg...
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Shavasana – Why the Corpse Pose is So Important
Among one of the seemingly easy poses of
yoga is shavasana or the corpse (dead body) pose. It may seem easy but it is
not. It may seem as though this aasan is not an important one; however as a
yoga instructor, I find that this is also inaccurate. The corpse aasan is
important, and it is also surprisingly difficult, I feel.
Students doing Shavasana at a Yoga Central class
...
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The Concept of Nispandbhava in Yoga
Perhaps our ancient predecessors were really wise; that they realized the importance of reducing stress and maintaining mental equilibrium. Since the connection between low stress levels and physical well being were well understood at the time, various methods were prescribed for relaxation and enhancing feelings of calm repose in yoga. A yoga class advertisement will often pro...
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Sukhasan – The Easiest & Most Difficult of Yoga Aasans
Sukhasan is the easiest of aasans or yoga positions – if you take a yoga class you probably know this. It is the simple cross legged seated position that is like an easier version of the padmasana or lotus position. The aasan is thought to be very effective for meditation and according to Jnana Yoga guru Ramana Maharshi, it is also suitable for attaining enlightenment. Though S...
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Yoga and Vihaar (Recreation and Relaxation)
Last week we spoke of the importance of eating right to supplement and maximize the positive impacts of Yoga practice and how a healthy diet is one of the important aspects of the holistic life system of Yoga. Another important contributive factor of this holistic system is ‘Vihaar’ which we understand as leisure or recreational activities, but which also encompasses the im...
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