Simple Morning Yoga

You've decided to start yoga because you are fully convinced that this is the best stress buster. Remember how you would feel good to stretch the muscles and limbs? It felt so good, right? This was due to the active stance that activated the endorphins in your body and then flooded the system. This made you feel good!

When you started to do the basics of yoga, you had no problems trying to do all the yoga postures, and were are so drawn to them daily. But as the days passed by, you've noticed that you do not have enough time to do your daily yoga program anymore. Your schedule became so hectic that you have to jump out of bed in the morning to get the children to school or to meet clients for the sale you want to close. Thus, after a long stressful condition, the body began manifesting less enthusiasm. You started feeling sorry because you cannot do your yoga and the feeling of self-neglect moved in.

But you should not feel that way. Take a break and think of what the reasons may be. When you feel uptight, the muscles start to pull you down. Yes, we recognize that in this fast paced world, we keep on the fast track lane. So now let's find some ways on how to have yoga exercises every day.

Menu No. 1

To experience that sense of goodness which yoga can bring, one must focus on stretching the spine. Sun Salutation is a good posture to begin with. This particular series of postures are light and simple that will not take you more than five or ten minutes. Do many repetitions as you can. Do it fast if you want to make it aerobic type, or very slow, like tai-chi movements. Synchronize each movement with your breath. Then sit on a comfortable chair or a yoga mat; lie down there for a few minutes to relax.

Menu No. 2

There will be times when you don't feel like getting out of bed. That is still acceptable. Make sure that you have a firm bed and do the following: Remember to breathe normally through your nose, and if you experience a sharp pain, change right away.

A) Lie on back with both arms at your side, move one leg to the other side and grab the big toe with your other hand. Feel that good stretch on your back and hamstrings. Bend your knees if needed. Hold for about 18 to 30 counts. Now, do it on the other side.

B) Still on your back, bend your knees and hold your ankles. Now raise your buttocks. Hold for 18-30 counts.

C) Now turn on your stomach, hands by the sides of the chest. Push yourself up and press the hips on the bed. Hold 18-30 counts.

D) At this point, you now have the energy to sit on the bed. Open both legs wide to bend on one leg. Hold again for 18-30 counts. Then do it on the other side.

E) Now, while seated, you can do the spinal twist; 18-30 counts on each side.

F) Then do your stretching on one leg on the side while you keep that other leg bent and heel near your groin. Execute this on an exhale; start bending from your hips and hold for 30 counts. Do this on the other side.

G) If you still have time, make one or two rounds of Sun Salutation.

H) Now lie on your back for 2-3 minutes. Consciously relax each part of your body.

For only 10 minutes, or until 15 minutes, you can easily do this routine. Just start doing it, and do not let your body to pull down

How Samkhya Yoga Can Help Increase Your Quality Of Life

This article describes 5 ways that Samkhya yoga can help to increase your quality of life, regardless of your personal circumstances and situation.

1. Increased Lung Capacity – by conducing Samkhya yoga twice weekly, you will learn how to breath more effectively and control your emotions as a result. Breathing exercises will also help you increase your VO2 max which is the maximum amount of oxygen you can intake in one breath. This is important for any healthy cardiovascular effort, as your lung capacity will directly impact on how your body will perform when exerted.

2. Reduced stress levels – research suggests that taking time out exclusively for yourself helps to reduce stress levels and having a time out from the everyday issues that trouble us all. By doing Samkhya yoga, your body will naturally be more relaxed and your muscles and internal organs will have had the opportunity to stretch and release toxins that are captured by an increase in stress levels. By doing so, you will become at one with your soul and you will work towards reaching a complete state of what is known as inner peace, or shanti.

3. Higher level of physical fitness – Samkhya yoga is an art which is underpinned by stretching and developing personal stretching capabilities over time. In doing so you will start to use fat stores as energy, putting the body in a higher state of physical exertion. As you do this, your body will become more supple, overtime resulting in an increased level of toning.

4. Relaxed mindset – because of the atmosphere within a Samkhya yoga class you will find yourself becoming extremely relaxed, entering a state of passiveness which is unrivalled in any extracurricular activity.

5. Meeting people – by going to a Samkhya yoga class you will meet like minded individuals that want to increase their quality of life through stress relief and relaxation, two facets which Samkhya yoga provides easily. By meeting these types of individuals you will find yourself making new friends that are on the same wavelength, happy to socialise with you in order to further improve both yours and their own quality of life.

Yoga: Benefits Of Pranayama

Prana is the vital force present in whole cosmos. We have been provided Prana, the supreme source of energy by the creator. Proper utilisation of this free source of energy can make remarkable changes to our physical and mental health, vitality and self confidence. Prana is more subtle than air and can be defined as the energy essence that is within everything in the universe.

Ayama means to control or to give a rhythm or a definite flow.

In this sense pranayama may be defined as a process and technique through which vital energy can be stimulated and increased and this brings about perfect control over the flow of Prana within the body. pranayama locks the scattering of pranic energy, consolidates it at the centre of your body-mind complex and laser-beams it to an intense awareness of the self. In simple language Pranayam can be said to be the right form of breathing technique to control our energy.

Breathing Technique: We can train ourselves to breathe more slowly and more deeply. We can reduce our breathing rate from about fifteen breaths a minute to 5-6 breaths a minute. Reduced breathing rate leads to slowing down the heart rate as more oxygen can be pumped even with less number of breaths. Time of exhalation should be longer than that of inhalation in the breath cycle.

Types of pranayama:
1. Bhastrika pranayama
2. Kapal Bhati pranayama
3. Baghi pranayama
4. Anulom Vilom pranayama
5. Bhramari pranayama
6. Udgeet pranayama

Most of us are not well aware of tangible and intangible benefits of pranayama. All benefits of pranayama cannot be written down, few of them are listed below:-

Healthy Heart: Heart is the key organ of our body which beats about 70 times per minute to pump blood non-stop all your life. The health of your heart indicates our life expectancy and quality of life in old age. More oxygen in the blood means more oxygen to muscles of the heart.

Better Blood Circulation: As a result of better breathing techniques, the freshly oxygenated blood travels from lungs to the heart. The heart pumps it via arteries and blood vessels to every part of the body, where in turn is absorbed by every tissue and cell. This improves the blood circulation and more oxygen energy reaches all parts of your body.

Stress Management: Pranayama is an excellent stress relief technique. Pranayama practice provides freedom from negative thought, anger, depression, lasciviousness, greed for money, arrogance etc. With pranayama fluctuations of mind are controlled and it prepares the mind for meditation. With practice of pranayama, we can experience lightness of body, feeling of inner peace, better sleep, better memory and better concentration whereby improving the spiritual powers/ skills. Mental peace and clarity of thought occur in our mind. Cheerfulness and enthusiasm is increased in life.

Functioning of Body Organs: By practice of pranayama all body organs gets more oxygen, toxins are removed from body; therefore onset of various diseases is prevented. Better functioning of autonomic system improves the working of lungs, heart, diaphragm, abdomen, intestines, kidneys and pancreas. Digestive system improves and diseases pertaining to digestive organs are cured with good appetite. General irritability due to lethargy/ fatigue vanishes. Pranayama strengthens the immune system. Pranayama reduces wear and tear of internal organs.

Longevity and Quality of Life in Old Age: Higher the breath rate, lower the life of creature in the world. Dog and monkey have higher breathing rate and lower life in contrast with elephant and tortoise taking four to five breaths in a minute and it lives up to 200 years or more. As a person with sedentary lifestyle reaches middle age, lung tissues tend to grow less and less elastic and lung capacity decreases. Pranayama can help to reduce the effects

Yoga Sandals & Toe Spreaders - Healthy Toes And Feet In No Time

Yoga sandals and Toe spreaders are popular tools to re-train your Toes to be able to spread. Also they can re-align the Toes into their natural position after they have been squeezed in shoes for several hours (especially women suffer from Toe misalignment due to unhealthy footwear like high heels and pointed Toes).

Why wear yoga sandals?
In yoga training, there is an emphasis on separating the Toes in the standing postures to improve the sense of grounding and balance, and these sandals re-train the Toes to do just that, while exercising the foot muscles.

The dual action of heel bone support and spreading the Toes strengthens foot muscles, keeps bones flexible and allows the arch to work naturally. Controlling the alignment of the heel improves ambulatory stability of the arch and reduces strain on the lower leg muscles. Break the myth - high arch support in shoes actually weakens the arch muscles. Heal support is critical to foot health. Our sandals promote proper foot motion from heel strike, rolling over to the litle Toe and finishing the step on the big Toe. Recommended by doctors, yoga instructors and upscale health spas.

Why use Toe spreaders?
Exercises your feet and stretches your Toes into healthy alignment. After continued use HealthyToes Toe spreaders will work to relax, heal, beautify, and even strengthen your feet and Toes. Also used by massage therapists, spas, nail salons, health educators and podiatrists, to help beautify, strengthen and heal active or inactive feet.

Where can I buy yoga sandals and HealthyToes Toe spreaders?
If you look for an extensive range of yoga sandals and HealthyToes Toe spreaders, EMP Industries in Melbourne is the right choice for you. They offer great quality products at great prices.

What else can you get at EMP Industries?
EMP Industries is an Australian based and owned company that is now run in third generation. They have made themselves a name by offering the top American yoga clothing labels in Australia. EMP Industries is also famous for offering yoga Mats, Pilates Mats, yoga Blocks, yoga Blankets, Stretching Straps, yoga sandals, Stretch Bands, Exercise Balls, yoga DVDs, Dance DVDs,Pilates Rings, and many many more. EMP sells its products to the end customer but also offers wholesale prices for bulk buyers (usually prices start dropping when you order more than 10 items of one product). That is the reason EMP Industries counts most large yoga and pilates studios in Australia as their customers!

How To Select The Best Yoga Videos

Finding the greatest yoga videos is not as simple to walking down to your local video store and wandering over to the work out aisle. Not all such videos on the market are perfect for efficient home exercise. In turn to make sure you get the finest yoga videos for your home, think about a few issues you must really look for.

Easy To Understand

To start with, a quality yoga video will be simple for you to follow. You should be able to understand what is being done, how the positions are achieved, how long you should hold each one, & how often you must do it. It must also be simple to follow into each succeeding move. If you cannot comprehend the video, in that case it has unsuccessful on its most basic level.

Second, videos must supply not only simple to follow instructions, but also easy to comprehend demonstrations. You must be able to, by watching, comprehend the basics of achieving each position & each transition. You must also comprehend, from watching, the breathing patterns and concentrate. If you can understand the verbal directions, but the demonstrations are unclear then your video is no better than a book on yoga.

After that, there should be easy adjustments offered in the finest yoga videos. yoga can be hard, so starters to it may frequently need adjustments to their practice in order that they can comprehend even that which they cannot complete. No matter what your capability level may be, you desire your video to be able to apply to you. After you buy a video, it must be of use to you at each phase as you progress more into yoga. Choose a video that will grow with you.

Teaching Quality

In a quality video, the yoga must be trained in a student centered manner. Though that look as if like it must go without saying, you will see a number of yoga videos that are just a fancy way of showing off the instructors ability in yoga. Such videos do little if any good & in many cases may even be counterproductive for you. The plan of having the yoga video is to help your growth, not to set you in awe of somebody else level of flexibility or fitness.

Lastly, high quality yoga videos should feature renowned and well eligible instructors. They should not only be practicing instructors, but should probably have accomplished great success in their yoga education. You always desire to be taught from somebody at as high a level as possible. By simply reading the back of the box, you will often get a general idea of the teachers credentials in order that you can make a smart decision as to whether or not you desire this person to aid you apply yoga in your home.

Discovering the finest yoga videos really isn't easy. Nevertheless, when supported among the tools above, you can more precisely assess a videos worth. Search for something you comprehend visually and orally, that you can use at any level, and that features a successful teacher while staying student centered. When you find that you will have found the best of the finest yoga videos for use at home and between private sessions or classes.

Cool Yoga Postures for Hot Summer Days

Do you want to stay cool while practicing yoga during those hot summer days? We tend to move more in the summer months, which is a great thing! But when the sun's too oppressive or the day's too muggy, outdoor activities drop off. So, in the hot days of summer, you would do well to practice yoga poses that actually keep you cool.

Generally speaking, forward extensions are the cooling yoga postures practiced during hot days. Find a nice breezy location near an open window or door. The fresh air helps. Don't attack the poses. Remember to move into each of the yoga postures with deliberation and set up your alignment properly. The names of yoga poses that will give you a relaxing and cooling practice without overheating are Janu Sirsasana (Head Knee Pose) and Marichiasana (Seated Twist with several variations). Along with these basic poses, more can be added depending on the time you have available, your energy level, and how much experience you have had. You may add Ardha Baddha Padma Paschimottanasana (Half Bound Lotus Forward Bend), Triang Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana (Three Limb Face Down Forward Bend), and Paschmimottanasana (Full Forward Bend). There are so many variations on how they can be performed, yet that does not mean one can be sloppy! These five yoga postures translate into forward bends with a knee to the side, one leg in lotus, one leg in Virasana and twisting, with the final version of the pose looping arms around legs and the torso and using leverage. The final yoga pose is a plain forward extension with legs fully straightened.

In seated yoga postures, press your legs down into the floor, keep that action as you bend at the hip joint, not the mid-back. Then lengthen your front spine as you stretch forward. In Iyengar yoga, yoga postures are supported with props like straps to catch a foot, or a bolster to support your torso. This way you should get the benefits of wonderful yoga by: 1) keeping yourself moving during hot summer days which is good for your lymph system that cleanses your issues, 2) keeping yourself cool which is not only appropriate but satisfying and 3) keeping your tissues toned, strong and alert. Practicing yoga postures is all about appropriate balance in the self, both in the moment and in life.

Yoga Practice at Home - It Is Time to Get Real

Moving towards opening a yoga practice is the next step to incorporating yoga as a lifestyle. As instructors encourage learners to embrace personal yoga lifestyle at home, classes become a place to connect with others, regroup and get help from seasoned instructors.

Blending yoga into your personal life is paramount to understanding yoga as a whole. As you become more advanced in your practice, adopting a yoga lifestyle into your life should be happening on a more global scale. Personal practice displays commitment, motivation and maturity. Once included into personal practice, a practitioner will notice a shift in consciousness to a deeper awareness to self and the environment.

As a meditative practice, yoga promotes you to be mindful of your actions and aware of those around you. Once you realize that yoga classes do not grant the student enlightenment until the student takes yoga home, the further along the spiritual development path you'll be.

Developing a personal practice at home does not come easy. It takes intuition as to what your needs are for that day or even week, for that matter. Setting aside times to do yoga at the times that your body or mind really need them is a challenge. You want to address the now, so you must be flexible enough to switch routines for the day.

Write out the sequence of poses that will work for the type of yoga you feel you need to perform for that day. You will end up with several versions for your different needs. Some sequences will be active and invigorating while others will be calming and insightful. When incorporating bends and twist, remember to include counter-moves to balance the body. Forward bends will counter-balance back bends and twists to the left should be paired with twists to the right.

This may sound daunting, but it is not. Start out small and work from there. A thing to note, though, is to create a special space for your practice. Multi-use areas tend to thwart even the most dedicated yogi. If you have to move 5 things from the space in order to practice yoga, chances are you will find reasons not to do yoga that day. Obviously, your props should be stored nearby for convenience. In the beginning, check out music from the local library to try first. Be creative. Move beyond some of the contemporary New Age tracks to find your yoga groove.

Ultimately, you should feel refreshed and energized when you are done with your yoga practice. Remember to approach each pose from a calm and centered place. You will gain so much more. You shouldn't feel exhausted when you're done, not even with Bikram yoga (hatha yoga performed in 105 degree room). So give yourself credit that you can bring yoga home and incorporate it into your real life.

3 Amazing Benefits of Yoga Nidra

Did you realize that the practice of Yoga Nidra is one of the most ancient and powerful Yogic techniques that there is?

Wipe away all thoughts of a variety of different difficult and challenging poses that come to mind when you think about Yoga and begin to realize now that the practice is quite simply a guided meditation technique that helps you let go of and transcend many of your deeply held samskaras.

Now, if you are anything like most people you might be wondering what exactly samskaras are so let me tell you, simply stated samskaras are the unconscious habits and thoughts that you have that in a variety of different ways is controlling your life.

And while I could go on and on about the ins and outs of samskaras the truth of the matter is when it comes to the practice of Yoga Nidra all you really probably care about are what kind of amazing benefits can you expect to experience with this amazing practice.

That's why you will be glad to know that below you will discover 3 amazing benefits of Yoga Nidra that will hopefully allow you to find the motivation you need to invest your time and energy into this extraordinary practice day after day.

Benefit of Yoga Nidra #1 - The more you practice on a daily basis you might begin to notice that your stress levels are dramatically lower; more than that you will also begin to find yourself being able to deal with whatever comes at you from life in a calm and clear manner.

Benefit of Yoga Nidra #2 - It also will become clearer that the more you practice you will find yourself becoming more relaxed, less anxious and generally much more peaceful in life.

Benefit of Yoga Nidra #3 - Gradually you will find yourself becoming more and more connected to others in the ways that you want as you continue to practice Yoga Nidra on a daily basis.

Believe it or not when you experience the deep meditative states that the practice of Yoga Nidra allows you to experience you are actually providing yourself with an extremely enriched environment for your body and mind to make the most extraordinary of changes.

And what's more unlike a lot of different meditation practices that require you to sit for a lengthy amount of time, the practice of Yoga Nidra is actually done while you are lying down on your back with your eyes closed.

Thaddeus Ferguson has dedicated himself to the cause of helping people heal themselves first in order to help heal the world during this amazing time of transformation.

The practice of Meditation is just one of the many powerful tools that you can use in order to help Heal You First.

Yoga for Weight Loss - What Is Needed to Lose Weight With Yoga?

There are many reasons to implement a yaga routine into your weekly schedule. Many people focus on the increase of flexibility and balance that is sure to be seen by those who practice yoga regularly. While it is definitely true that avid yoga participants are more flexible and balanced than when they first begin, there are other physical benefits of yoga. There are many different methods for attempting to lose weight, but if you want to appreciate all the other spiritual, mental and physical benefits of yoga, you can choose this as your method of weight loss. The reduction of weight you experience will be based on what type of yoga you choose and the diet you adopt.

There are a couple types of yoga that are specifically geared toward helping participants lose weight. One is called hot yoga. By practicing yoga in a room that is well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit with an instructor who has hot yoga certification, you can see a quick drop in pounds. Of course, this is primarily water weight since you will sweat more performing hot yoga than other forms. Many people love this method because it loosens up your muscles and helps you relax. You cannot count on the temporary, quick loss of pounds offered by hot yoga, however.

For a more intense weight loss program, you can choose power yoga, also known as ashtanga yoga. Athletes and others who want to see a quick and permanent physical change choose this type of yoga for its increased emphasis on cardiovascular activity. This is also a great type of yoga to pursue if you want to obtain training to be a yoga teacher. The sequences of poses you learn will help you be able to practice yoga wherever you are and whenever you want.

Your diet will also be critical for you to lose weight. You may try to eat things you know are healthy, like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free, organic products, but the simple fact is that the earth's soils are not what they used to be. The combination of genetically engineered food and the depleted nutrients in the soil is leading to less and less healthy foods, even if they are organic. That is why your yoga for weight loss should be coupled with as healthy of a diet as you can muster along with the right dietary supplements to help counter the nutrient-lacking foods available today.

Using A Premium Yoga Mat - For Health And Happiness

How Important Is My Mat For My Practice?

The answer to this question is that other than your mind, your mat is the most important thing you have when you practice. Choosing the right mat for your needs is not so easy as it might seem, and the color is not the number one issue here. Many people go for the pink or black yaga mats because they like the colors and the style, and it is true that yoga have become a very stylish trend. However, it is not advisable to choose a mat according to these superficial criteria, and you must remember that it this mat needs to support you during a physical workout. Your mat is there to help you go about your yoga practice without worrying about safety and slipping from poses while sweating half-way into the practice. There are a number of important points to remember while heading out to the store and getting your mat, and color is the last one on that list, at least when it comes to safety.

Having a loud pink-colored mat might be safe when it comes to being spotted easily by passing traffic while you are riding your bike to and from your favorite yoga center. On the other hand, it is far less important while you are actually practicing, and for the actual practice it is always better to have a premium yoga mat that is made out of high-quality materials and that can hold your hands and feet from slipping and sliding over. The most important thing to know while choosing a yoga mat is the level of stickiness. The stickier it is, the better and safer it is to practice on, and some can hold you even while you practice out in the rain. The colors that are used for dyeing the mats are too often slippery enough to shake even the teacher off his balanced pose, and it is highly recommended for beginners and experienced yogis as one to use a super-sticky yoga mat.

A Premium Yoga Mat Is A Green One

When I say that a high quality mat should be green, I'm not talking about the actual color of the mat itself. I am talking about the materials it is made of, and the environmental impact it carries. Be it the manufacturing process or its ability to break-down and not hurt the planet, getting a good mat means you are getting an ecological one and that you are doing your share as an aware person and helping the planet survive. The popularity of the practice of yaga in the west has come hand in hand with the new movement for ecological awareness, and I am not the first to claim that it is not by chance alone. Taking the step towards becoming a yogi is taking a giant leap towards awareness and self-discipline.

Being aware means you are taking responsibility over actions and choices, and thus know when you are doing right or wrong. This responsibility starts with awareness to your own body and your own personal health. This is followed by a stronger awareness for your surroundings and your friends and family. Choosing a yaga mat that is better for your practice and for the world in general symbolizes the decision you are taking upon yourself when you choose to enter the world of yoga. It is important to always remember that your health is the most precious thing you have, and that your practice is all about enhancing your stamina. It will be completely ridiculous to practice in a way that hurts your body and your spirit as you will be missing the entire point of the practice. Choose the right mat for your body, and do not be tempted by cheap merchandise made from materials you do not want to have near your body.

You Can Get To Do Yoga Daily By Practicing at Home

Practicing yoga has many benefits on your overall health and well being. It is great for preventive care, and also for aiding already existing health issues. The practice in itself is commonly the part every practitioner enjoy. However, find the time for it can be a challenge. This is why practicing yaga at home is a great option when there is not enough time to get a yoga studio. So now there are really no longer any excuses to not be practicing more often. Also researching yoga online can be a great tool that can be done from home. Such as for beginners to getting started or to find out more about a specific type of yoga.

One of the benefits of practicing yoga at home is that you decide when the class starts and ends. There is actually even more time to practice yoga when there is no getting to and forth to a yoga studio. Some days you might have time for an whole hour or more on practicing yoga at home. On a more busy day there might only be time for 20 or even 10 minutes of yoga. Still, that is so much more than not getting to practice any yoga at all that day.

You also decides what specifically poses to include in your routine when you practice yoga at home. The practice and poses are your choice depending on what your body needs on that day. Maybe even add some meditation or simply just do the meditation. However, if you find it easier and more relaxing to simply follow a routine, then there are classes to download from the internet.

yoga in itself have many different styles to be practiced. Part of what can be done from home is research online to find out more about the many various styles. This will assist in learning more and to pick the one style that fits you the best right now. For example, prenatal yoga is only useful at a very specific and short period in life, while Iyengar yoga might really be a practice that will become part of you.

Researching the internet for yaga can be a good start for beginners. Before taking that first class, there is plenty to that could be read through. This is a great preparation before getting started and to get more out of the class. However, beginners need to attend yoga classes to gain understanding of yoga and to get the necessary adjustments. Most of all to get the experience of yoga. The truth is every practitioner needs to get to a yoga studio every now and then. Although, for all the other days when there is no time, there is always the option of practicing yoga at home.

Including yaga in your life most likely will bring serenity to your mind, body, and spirit. It might even lead you to make better decisions in other parts of your life. Commonly the spirit of yoga will add rejuvenation and energy therefore more productivity. The great serenity of yoga can be a great pause when your life is in chaos. When life is not in chaos, serenity and a feeling of well being is still a great addition. Your feeling of serenity will spread to the world around you. Therefore if you are practicing yoga regularly then you are helping the rest of the world. In essence, everyone should be practicing yoga. So if you ever thought about starting yoga or wanting to practice more often, there is no time like the present!

Kids Have Fun Taking Yoga

A lot of children are under stress today due to homework, pressure of competition, scheduling sports practices, endless school activities and many more such reasons. Therefore, parents as well as their children are turning to yaga for relaxation. When you teach yoga to children, it increases the awareness of the body. It also helps develop flexibility, self-control and coordination. This is something that can be applied both in school and in difficult situations.

Yoga has also benefits to reduce hyperactivity and poor concentration in kids. These children desire for movement and sense motivation. Yoga assists in channeling these impulses in a constructive way. Postures that are very helpful are the tree pose and warrior pose. It inspires confidence, calmness and balance.

It's fun when teaching kids poses. They love to do postures that involve stretching like animals. There are poses such as the frog, lion and cat stretch. Kids enjoy these movements and often laugh while doing them. Breathing is also something they enjoy to do. Kids are not always good at keeping their eyes closed. They like to cheat and open their eyes. Expect that if you are teaching, but encourage the kids to close their eyes and to just go inside. It also helps stress because there is then no way to compare yourself to others.

At the end of yaga classes, generally time is spent lying on one's back and listening to relaxing music. Kids are very visual and often can imagine themselves walking on the beach or being in a spot in nature they love. Make use of their imagination to visualize a place that gives them inner peace. Also using imagery about taking all the burdens off their shoulders works well.

Don't forget that kids like to sing. Incorporate some English or sanskrit mantras into the class. Also have a few partner or small group moments in the class where kids can interact. Doing this can encourage teamwork and cooperation. As children have a lot of energy, stretching poses are an incredible way to channel it into activities which will nourish their mind and body.

Additional benefits include improving focus, concentration, confidence and self-esteem. This will enable them to have better focus periods during homework time as well as when taking exams. This ancient practice helps them to manage stress efficiently, and manage behavioral issues as well. Enroll your kids in yoga and if you are a teaching, remember to throw in animal poses and visualizations to make it fun.

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Yoga on the Web: Giving Better Understanding of Its Health Benefits

Two websites, Beliefnet and Yoga in Daily Life, are healthy and spiritual sites living through their articles and stories about yaga practice.

Beliefnet is a comprehensive website covering a wide range of topics including health, faith, religion, politics, sustainable living, and family entertainment. Its section Pain Management Centre is where lessons on meditation are available. These meditation topics include 10 yoga poses for pain management such as back pain.

Meanwhile, Yoga In Daily Life is a site exclusive for yoga. Several programs are created including Mantra Yoga and Kriya Yoga. These two kinds of yoga are more centered on life guidance and spiritual euphoria. The varied system offered by Yoga in Daily Life is taught around the globe through yoga Centers, adult education centers, health institutions, fitness and sports clubs, and rehabilitation centers.

Recognized all over the world, many yoga therapeutic programs prove to be an excellent non-surgical treatment to several diseases and body pains. It helps reduce stress, alleviate pains in the lower back, shoulder, and neck, strengthen the muscles, and increase circulation of the blood. With regular yoga practice, one can also improve his posture and body mechanics.

Meditation is one of the principles of yoga in achieving mental stability and good health. There is a variety of poses in meditation, each suits different types of people and their needs. In a meditation, one enters a state of peace and tranquility. Sometimes, meditation is accompanied with music such as Mantra Yoga and Yoga Nidra. Though the former is more focused on chanting. Also, visualization in a yoga exercise can further make practitioners relax, thus proportionally relieving the stress. The visualized images usually define the over-all mood.

Above all, yaga teachings include protection of life and respect to individuality and independence of every life form for humans are stewards of the earth.

By looking at the different forms of yoga one will find that there will be a 'connection' for you at that time, something that you can relate to, maybe a path for you to follow. You may have a 'calling' to the spiritual side rather than the physical side of yoga.

There are those that seek yoga to eliminate some form of pain or suffering like back pain, or maybe neck pain or some other form of pain. Many use yoga to feel less stressful and a more content and peaceful life. Meditating will help address a more balanced and peaceful life. Aim to give yourself time to meditate on a daily basis as there are many benefits.

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12 Questions You Should Ask When Choosing a Yoga Teacher Training Course

So, you've made the decision to become a yoga teacher. Perhaps you've been a yoga student for years, and have decided to take the next step. Maybe you just want to take your practice a bit deeper, and think that teacher training will help your self-development. You might have been made redundant and want to change career. Whatever your reason, there's not been a better time to train as a yaga teacher.

Teaching yoga is a growing industry, as there's a stressed out nation out there and more people than ever are turning to yoga to help them cope. Yoga teachers around the country have reported higher numbers in their classes this year than in previous years. I've found that corporate Dru yoga and well being classes are in great demand, as when stress levels rise, so do back problems and absenteeism. Companies are looking for experienced, grounded yoga teachers to work on the factory floor and in the office.

It's estimated by the British Wheel of Yoga that half a million people regularly practise yoga in the UK, and the number of yoga teachers is growing by 10% per year. But we're all different. Some of us like a more physical, dynamic style, like Sun Power, Power Yoga, Teach Yoga or Chi Kri schools, others prefer something more gentle, which suits all fitness levels, like Anusara, Dru Yoga or FRYOG. Some want a deep philosophy intensive in an ashram environment, as experienced in the Sivananda training, or the spiritual focus offered by Kundalini. Others want to fit their yaga training around families and jobs, and chose schools like triyoga, British Wheel, or Appleyoga. Some want to study close to home, others want to retreat to a beautiful environment like Snowdonia or the North of Scotland and make a holiday out of their training. So what's out there, and how should we choose?

After talking to people from many UK yoga schools, I've shortlisted 12 questions which should help you find the perfect training course for you. After all, the schools are all quite different, and are suited to different sorts of people. It's not a case of one being better than another, just finding the one which reflects your needs and aspirations best.

The top twelve questions:

1. What makes your course different from all the others?
2. Where is your course held in the UK?
3. Is it accredited with Yoga Alliance or a similar body?
4. How many years has your school been established?
5. How many students do you have currently training, and how many active graduates do you have?
6. Is your school worldwide? If so, in which countries is your course also available?
7. How qualified are your tutors? Do you have specialists in other relevant fields (eg osteopathy, medicine, sports science) on your teaching team?
8. How big are your classes, and what's the ratio of students to tutors?
9. What's the structure of your course? (Weekends/intensive/5 day modules etc) How long does it last?
10. How much does it cost? Are there any flexible payment plans? If so, what?
11. What support do you offer for your yoga teachers once they've finished the course?
12. Do you offer postgraduate trainings eg pregnancy yoga?

So, when you're ready to choose your yaga school, arm yourself with these questions and make note of the replies. Becoming a yoga teacher is a once in a lifetime activity, which will make a difference to potentially thousands of people, so take your time in choosing the right yoga school for you!

Tag : yaga,yaga teacher,training course,course

The Top 9 Rules For Doing Yoga Asana

Many of today's commercial yoga centers only teach students how to execute yoga postures or asana. What most people don't know, however, is that in traditional yaga practice, there are different rules that must be followed to it more effective.

These rules are listed below. However, you should know that the group to which I belong to practices traditional yoga, as it was taught to us by our founder. You might find some that some of these tips go against what you have been taught.

1. Take a shower before yoga

Cleanliness is one of the pillars of yoga, which is why you should shower before doing your asana. A clean body supports a clear and concentrated mind, which is necessary for properly executing yoga postures.

2. Do not do yoga outdoors

Doing yoga in an open field may result in sudden exposure to a change in the environment, making you vulnerable to colds.

3. Always practice yoga on a mat

Doing yoga on bare ground may cause you to catch a cold.

4. Breathe through your left nostril or both nostrils

Do not practice asana when you are breathing only through your right nostril - it will disturb your mind and nervous system. Practice asana only while your breath is flowing through the left nostril or both your nostrils.

5. Do not do yoga on a full belly

It is absolutely prohibited for anyone to do yoga for 2 and a half to three hours after a full meal.

6. Massage your body

After practicing your asana, you should massage your arms, legs and entire body - especially the joints - very well. A good massage relaxes your mind and body.

7. After massage, do the corpse posture

When you're done with the massage, do the corpse posture. Lie on your back with your arms on your side, with palms facing upward, for two minutes. This clears the mind and readies it for deep meditation.

8. Do not do any strenuous exercise after asana

Running or practicing any sport is prohibited immediately after doing yoga. Strenuous exercise is not prohibited entirely though - you can do it some hours before or after doing asana.

9. Do not do yoga if you are menstruating or pregnant

While there are commercial yoga programs for pregnant women, for those of us who are practicing traditional yoga, women are not allowed to practice asana if they are menstruating, pregnant, or if they're still within one month of delivering a baby.

Doing yoga in those conditions can seriously disrupt a woman's body processes, and so we seriously prohibit it.

Tag : yaga,yaga asana,asana

Yoga Teacher Training - 5 Steps To Discover The Most Profitable Yoga Products To Sell

Outcome: Sell profitable products at my classes or online.

Purpose: Making a decent living from teaching yaga classes is extremely difficult unless you have 5 or more full classes each week. Selling yoga products will help increase your income.

Steps

Step 1: Get in the mindset of NOT thinking you have to sell generic yoga products such as mats, blocks, etc as seperate items. There are countless thousands of yoga sites offering that sort of stuff.

Step 2: Use your imagination to come up with some orginal, creative yoga products.

Examples of Creative Yoga Products

* Sell themed kits (e.g. Lazy Yoga: block, tie, eye bag, bolster, Bolster DVD).

*Sell yoga holidays/retreats even if you personally don't have a yoga holiday/retreat. Contact someone who does and ask for a commission per person you send there way.

*Sell personal development courses (contact someone who has a great looking course and ask for a commission per sale).

*Sell unique clothing. Whatever you do, you must stand out from the crowd. Do not sell run of the mill yaga clothes. This can be a great excuse for going on holidays. My mum taught me this. She used to own a jewellery shop and would take 2 or 3 holidays abroad every year searching for new products for her shop.

*Sell yoga products that are utterly unique. When you do that you're far more likely to attract customers from all over the world.

Step 3: Sell on eBay. eBay is still the greatest online platform for selling. The great thing about eBay is that the people are buyers. Whereas on the web 99% of people are searching for free stuff.

Step 4: Sell on your website.

Step 5: Find other outlets to sell your unique yoga products!

Tag : yaga,yaga products,yaga teacher,training

Healing the Body With Yoga

The yogic practice has been exercised by people all over the world and it has been there since ancient times. This was the collection of exercises developed in the east but because of its benefits yoga has been hugely accepted almost all over the world. The practitioners all over the globe take it as a routine exercise but only few know the actual and total benefits of performing yogic exercises. The exercise has two sides of benefits: spiritual and physical. Both are important for the complete development of a human body. When performing exercises the body becomes independent of worldly affairs and the mind gets refreshed with new and positive thoughts about the life. It gives a new life to the sub-conscious mind which is responsible for most of the thinking by the mind. The exercise of yaga takes away the destructive affects from the human body and helps in releasing the energy within the body that makes the mind and the body to work in the positive way.

Other than the above mentioned benefits of yogic practices, it also helps in balancing the hormones of the brain and metabolic rate that is very essential for the development of the body physically. One of the recent benefits of yoga that has come up on the horizon is that it helps in reducing extra weight which is very good for people who are suffering from obesity. It is also helpful in resisting the process of aging as it makes the body to stay fit healthy and young for a very long time.

Tag : yaga,hatha yaga,body,healing

How Yoga Moves Can Benefit Pregnant Women

Doing yoga during pregnancy is an excellent choice for mother-to-be and baby. There are many benefits to prenatal yoga. It's very important to do prenatal yoga and not regular yaga. There are some yoga poses that are not recommended for pregnant women. Prenatal yoga is comprises a series of gentle stretches and breathing exercises. These stretches help elongate and strengthen key muscle groups used in delivery. It also helps to increase flexibility. Prenatal yoga can relieve back pain. Yoga minimizes water retention which contributes to leg and ankle swelling. Yoga also helps with balance during those sometimes awkward latter stages of pregnancy. The routines should be modified for each trimester of pregnancy.

Yoga also helps the baby by increasing the circulation of blood and oxygen to the baby. Yoga improves posture which helps the baby enjoy optimal space in the womb.

In addition to the physical benefits of yoga there are also benefits for the mind. Learning effective breathing techniques is very beneficial. Deep breathing can calm the mind and help manage pain. By consciously practicing breathing, you will help to meet the challenges of labor. When the body is in pain or highly anxious it produces adrenaline and inhibits the production of oxytocin which, ironically is the hormone the makes labor progress. Learning breathing techniques is a big part of standard prenatal classes. If you can incorporate deep breathing learned through yoga this will be an added benefit.

Yoga props will help you get the optimum results from your sessions. Some people will choose to purchase a thicker yoga mat for extra support. Yoga bricks and bolsters are also recommended to help with balance, especially in latter trimesters. There are some very good prenatal yoga dvds to choose from

Taking a prenatal yaga class is a wonderful way to fellowship with other expectant mothers. It gives you an opportunity to share and receive support during your pregnancy.

It's important to consult your doctor before you begin any exercise program. After you've had your baby and gotten approval from your doctor, yoga is an excellent way to get back in shape. Honor your body and do as much as it tells you it can handle.

Tag : yaga,yaga classes,hatha yaga,yaga mats

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Piper_Michaels

How To Rest In This Yoga Pose and Mastermind Good Health

What you do on the yoga mat does not stay on the yoga mat! Yoga positions, philosophy, lifestyle and meditations journey with us. Many yoga positions can be transferred to life beyond the yoga mat. We become much more aware of how we stand, sit and the way we move.

Basic yoga poses include resting poses like Shavasana and Child's Pose. There is another basic pose called "Wind Relieving Pose" or Apanasana, basically Child's Pose on your back. If you have a sore knee and cannot rest in Child's Pose, this is an excellent alternative. Lying on your back, hug your knees in towards your chest. If you have a round body and cannot reach your knees, use a strap around your lower legs to hold the knees in place. If your knee is sore to touch, clasp your hands underneath the knee.

To add more movement, leave one knee at the chest, and extend the other leg to the floor. Alternate legs. To strengthen the abdomen, raise the head off the floor and hands as well. If you are recovering from surgery or have weak abdominal muscles, rest the hands palms down on the floor. Always listen to the body's messages.

This yaga pose helps elimination problems, including menstrual cramps. It is a cooling pose. With both legs in towards the chest, hold for 15 minutes or more to release tension in the low back. The pose encourages surrender. As you breathe consciously and rhythmically the diaphragm massages the abdominal and pelvic areas, assisting digestion. Feel this movement in the abdomen. With eyes closed you are drawn deeper within to rest in your own secret world. Even the heart can relax.

Mastermind

When settled comfortably in the pose, with breathing stabilized, you can mastermind a plan for good health. Visualization is easier for some of us. It gets easier with practice. What does good health look like to you? Feel that good health as you hold the pose. Which system of the body is affected? How well do you know the system? If it is unfamiliar, you'll need to research what it looks like in order to visualize it. To be more effective, practice visualizing good health 3 times per day for 15 minutes.

Rest in peaceful surrender in Apanasana, with eyes gently closed. Feel the breath move within your body like a slow wave, rising and falling. Allow the mind and heart to rest in your secret sacred place of healing.

Tag : yaga,yaga mats,yaga DVD,yaga therapy,yaga massage

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Greaves

Avoiding Low Back Pain From Yoga Classes

It is one of the most common reason why people are sent to the hospital. Lower back pain is very prevalent in people who work in offices all day that have daily routines that do not support their back. There are a lot of causes for back pain but most of them are due to your habits. Here are some of them you might not know.

You might not be thinking about maintaining proper posture when you are brainstorming on your project the entire day. And in doing so, you are positioning yourself to having back pains later in the day. Take the time to get out of your seat and stretch or even walk around the office.

There have been research that show people who skip the gym are more likely to have back pains than those who regularly hit the gym. Be sure to sweat it out at least twice a week to prevent back pains in the office.

You can find yoga classes everywhere that cater to your muscle strengthening needs. Yoga experts would likely recommended that you do yaga if you are not into the whole exercise routine. Try to ask your instructor if there are certain moves that focus on your lower back.

Diet is also essential to having a healthy pain-free body. Eat healthy foods that do not clog your arteries which results to poor circulation. And if you do not have enough circulation, inflammation happens and the pain cycle starts.

Be mindful of your shoulders as they connect with your spine and your back. When your shoulders are not in balance, the spine is also not in balance putting your entire posture at risk. If you are to put more weight on one shoulder, try to balance it with the other to prevent postural problems.

Your bed can also be a factor when it comes to back pains. If you are to sleep on your back try add a pillow underneath your knees so that there will be additional pressure on your spine. If you are a side sleeper, put a pillow between your knees and if you sleep on your stomach, put one either on your stomach or on your hips.

Ditch the pumps when you go to your office. You may look sexier with high heel shoes on but later on, it will cause you even more pain in the back, on your thighs, calves, and heels too.

Tag : yaga,yaga classes,yaga DVD,yaga teacher,yaga fitness

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Allie_Watkins

Yoga Teacher Training - 5 Steps To Set Up An E-Newsletter For Free

Outcome: Set up your own professional e-Newsletter without forking out a single penny.

Purpose: Stay in touch with your students. Promote your other services/products. Offer a weekly yoga tip

Setting up an e-Newsletter for your yoga business is one of the best marketing strategies you can use because the smaller a businesses is the more effective "contacting customers" is as a strategy.

The cost of directly contacting your customers or prospects can be high if you were sending out letters or postcards. It would not only be expensive to send out letters/postcards but would take a lot of your precious time to manage.

The good news is there is a way of contacting your yaga students and prospects without spending a single penny. There is a little known tool on the Internet that allows you to send attractive, professional looking e-Newsletters to your yoga students and prospects. And the best news is that this e-Newsletter tool won't cost you a single penny.

I used to use another e-Newsletter tool that cost me about £150 a year. Not any more!

This e-Newsletter tool will keep your yoga students informed of other services you provide without doing a hard sell. You simply provide a useful tip (e.g. yoga position that good just before going to bed to help you sleep) and at the end of the tip, mention one of your services (e.g. 1-2-1 yoga).

As long as you place your customer's interests above your own (e.g. by offering useful yoga tips), you won't receive any complaints. I am not affiliated with mailchimp in any way.

Steps:

1. Go to Google and type in mailchimp
2. Click 'Sign Up For Free' and sign up.
3. Watch their easy-to-follow video tutorials.
4. Create your e-Newsletter.
5. Put the e-Newsletter sign up form on your website.

Tag : yaga,yaga tracher,yaga teacher trainging,yaga dvd,yaga classes

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_A_Watts

Right Yoga Postures For Back Pain Relief

Yoga has been constructive in treating varied illnesses including back trouble. Most yoga exercises enable stretching and bracing of the back. However, there are some yoga poses that are of bigger benefit for the back. Here are some of them.

The first one is the corpse pose. It is the easiest yaga pose and is reasonably effective for sciatica patients. This pose is necessary for relaxation of the back. To make this pose you must lie straight on your back on even ground. You must place your arms parallel to the body with the legs flat and joined together. If you'd like you may also bend your knees from time to time. That isn't all; you should do some deep respiring too for relaxation. Breathe in and out slowly while lying down.

Another simple yoga pose you can practice for back trouble relief is the moggy stretch pose. Simply stand straight. Your back should be properly aligned and absolutely straight. Keep your hands below the shoulders and knees straight below the hips. Now gently look down. Your chin should be tucked in so that your gaze is at your navel. Now take a big breath and on exhalation delicately raise your back towards the ceiling. This yoga pose will help you ease out various symptoms of sciatica.

Another yoga pose that may considerably make a contribution in the level of back stiffness and provide sciatic pain alleviation, if practiced on daily basis is sage twist. Begin by lying down with back straight on the ground and legs extended in front. After that, bend your right knee and then cross it over your left leg. The right foot placed adjacently to your left leg should get in touch with the ground. Now, place your right elbow on your left knee. Touch right hip with your left hand and twist just over the shoulder.

Another simple but a touch challenging yaga pose that may help fight back stiffness is the fish pose. Lie down straight on the floor with your legs stretched out. Bend both your knees. Now forcefully place the elbows on the ground. Push your elbows against the ground making an attempt to lift your back as much as humanly possible. Make sure that you don't overexert yourself while practicing this pose. Come back to the standard position and relax for a couple of seconds and then practice again. It is recommended that you do at least four to 5 repetitions at first.

The above listed yoga poses can work wonders for your back and provide relief from the grueling back stiffness. Though you want to practice these poses on a day-to-day basis to draw maximum benefits.

Tag : yaga,yaga postures,yaga teacher,yaga video

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rosemarie_Buanno