Question:

I like your web page and suggestions, but I wanted to just clarify (you probably already know this) that hatha yoga is not the same as asana practice. Granted there exist a myriad number of methods called yoga (many paths) in general,  but just to comment that the ancient path of hatha yoga as set forth by Goraknath, Svatmarama, Gherand, and others is not just "physical yoga" but rather it is a school which uses some physical techniques (asana) as one technique out of many (such as pranayama, mudra, visualization, meditation, etc) in its discipline (sadhana).

That is also Mumford’s opinion: "Hatha…one of the four yogas mentioned in the Upanisads (the remaining being Mantra, Raja and Laya) misunderstood in modern parlance as being a set of physical postures. The Yogasikhopanisad defines Hatha as the union (yoga) of the sun (Ha) an the mooon (Tha); the dissolvement of all polar opposites experienced through the mind-body interface." Lars

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Does anyone know what the effects of various types of yoga are?  i.e., Kriya, Hatha, etc.  I am interested in a

list if it exists and a brief description? Try going to Roots & Wings at Yoga.com to see a list in the faq section. Go right to it: http://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/info/faq.htm There are so many types of yoga it is confusing. Hatha yoga is basically a physical yoga where one does "asanas" and attains spirtual and other benefits. Best, Shannon B.

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There are so many types of yoga it is confusing. Hatha yoga is basically a physical yoga where one does "asanas" and attains spirtual and other benefits.

I like your web page and suggestions, but I wanted to just clarify (you probably already know this) that hatha yoga is not the same as asana practice. Granted there exist a myriad number of methods called yoga (many paths) in general,  but just to comment that the ancient path of hatha yoga as set forth by Goraknath, Svatmarama, Gherand, and others is not just "physical yoga" but rather it is a school which uses some physical techniques (asana) as one technique out of many (such as pranayama, mudra, visualization, meditation, etc) in its discipline (sadhana). Maybe it sounds like I am splitting hairs, but just to make it clear (because many confuse hatha yoga with only asana practice)  that asana practice is one practice and hatha yoga is quite another practice which includes it, just like a bottle of water may be likened to the former, while a river to the latter, and the ocean to yoga itself. Forgive the metaphors. Hatha yoga is designed to awaken the evolutionary life force which resides dormant inside of us through a series of many integrated practices of which asana (although very powerful in this process) is only one. Best of luck!

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Greetings, R.C. wrote…….

Does anyone know what the effects of various types of yoga are?

Question:

Tantra Yoga Tantra is a practical science introduced in India some 7000 years ago by Sada’shiva, a great yogii who lived in the Himalayan mountains. Tantra literally means "that which liberates from darkness". It endeavours to transform one’s life from crudeness to the attainment of the Supreme Consciousness — a state of union beyond the bondages of relativity. Tantra is practice not theory. It is a way of life that includes meditation and positive thinking, not merely a philosophy. To view everything in this world as an expression of the Infinite is the speciality of the Tantric approach. From the beginning, the practical philosophy of Tantra was not limited only to spiritual practices, but influenced many fields of life: literature, art, dance and medicine, to name a few. It is a holistic approach to life. Many different branches of Tantra developed over the course of years; some of which today are known as the different types of yoga. Yoga means "union" and refers to the union with Cosmic Consciousness. The various yogas often concentrate on one particular aspect of Tantra to the exclusion of others. The most well-known yogas today are: Jina’na Yoga: the path of knowledge. Karma Yoga: the path of proper action. Bhakti Yoga: the path of devotion. Hatha Yoga: the path of body control. Raja Yoga: the royal path, also known as "Austanga Yoga" (the eight-fold path), was compiled by Patainjali about 2500 years ago. The division of Tantra into different schools led to its decline as an effective way of life. Shrii Shrii A’nandamu’rti introduced once again a complete Tantric system for the all-round physical, mental and spiritual development of an individual. — ‘The main characteristic of PROUT-based socioeconomic movements is that they aim to guarantee the comprehensive, multifarious liberation of humanity.’  P R Sarkar PROUT – PROgressive Utilisation Theory http://www.proutworld.org http://www.prout.org New Renaissance: A Journal for Social and Spiritual Awakening: http://www.ru.org

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X-Ftn-To: Dharmadeva Tantra is a practical science introduced in India some 7000 years ago by Sada’shiva, a great yogii who lived in the Himalayan mountains.

Where did you get that information? Did you sit there with him, or you just read it in a book? AFAIK tantra is a very recent invention. Shrii Shrii A’nandamu’rti introduced once again a complete Tantric system for the all-round physical, mental and spiritual development of an individual.

Aha, so now we actually do get to the bottom of things. — Homepage: http://www.danijel.org

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Tantra is a practical science introduced in India some 7000 years ago by Sada’shiva, a great yogii who lived in the Himalayan mountains. Where did you get that information? Did you sit there with him, or you just read it in a book? AFAIK tantra is a very recent invention.

Like over 7,000 years

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Question:

Hi.  You probably get questions like this all of the time, but I’d really appreciate your help.  If I tell you what I’m looking to get out of yoga, could you tell me what kind of yoga might be best for me?  I want to gain flexibility and strength (as opposed to endurance, so I’m not looking for one of the more aerobic types of yoga.)  I’ve never done yoga before at all, but I’m very flexible naturally, so I need something that would be okay for a beginner but still sort of challenging.  Thanks in advance for any ideas you can give me.  Please Before you buy.

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I think the best for you would be Iyengar yoga. It’s really challenging, a bit hard but you feel the results immediatly. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi.  You probably get questions like this all of the time, but I’d really appreciate your help.  If I tell you what I’m looking to get out of yoga, could you tell me what kind of yoga might be best for me?  I want to gain flexibility and strength (as opposed to endurance, so I’m not looking for one of the more aerobic types of yoga.)  I’ve never done yoga before at all, but I’m very flexible naturally, so I need something that would be okay for a beginner but still sort of challenging.  Thanks in advance for any ideas you can give me.  Please Before you buy.

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Question:

   Hi everyone, Can anyone tell me in simple terms what is the best type of yoga to start of with ? Erica

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Can anyone tell me in simple terms what is the best type of yoga to start of with ?

What kind of experience are you looking for? Slow and relaxing, a workout, meditative, energy-raising? If you have the opportunity to drop in on several different classes, that will help you find what style you like.

Response:

Can anyone tell me in simple terms what is the best type of yoga to start

Humm, if I were starting over, I think I would first find a teacher I liked, then pursue the style of that teacher.  Try different teachers too.  As you gain experience, you will probably try different styles and eventually settle on what you think works best for you.  Give yourself a year or so. Style is a personal preference.  No matter the style, the ends are the same. Gary Echternacht

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I am new to yoga and purchased a couple of books and tapes. I am 51 years old but exercise everyday such as nautilus, racquetball,  weights and walking. The problem is that I don’t feel very flexible yet in the lower back and legs. How do I progress to be more flexible without the risk of injuring myself? Gary

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Try as much of each pose as you can handle without pushing or forcing.  Let yourself gain in tiny increments, and resist the urge to compare with others or "be there now."  Poses such as forward bends and forward folds, seated and reclining twists, and modified backbend poses can help your specific areas.  Do try to take class with a good teacher (and there are as many ways to teach yoga as there are teachers, so shop around if you aren’t happy with the first one or two!) as they can help you with your particular needs and show you how to work to you fullest without injury or strain. I especially recommend Iyengar-style yoga, which caters to each person’s individual flexibility by using props.  For example, if you are in pain when you do forward bend, rest your arms on a ledge or your head on a chair back so that your muscles can release, instead of having to come back up after only a few seconds. Welcome to yoga and enjoy! Allison Williams

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am new to yoga and purchased a couple of books and tapes. I am 51 years old but exercise everyday such as nautilus, racquetball,  weights and walking. The problem is that I don’t feel very flexible yet in the lower back and legs. How do I progress to be more flexible without the risk of injuring myself? Gary

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After a while you will be able to become aware of two very different kinds of soreness. One is from over activation of a muscle, such as over working a muscle that has not been used for awhile. Besides the possibility of it going into spasm, this is usually benign and in a day or two the soreness is gone. It usually is accompanied by greater STRENGTH of the muscle.  This usually occurs  from the activation of what is called the agonist muscle (the one that initiates isotonic movement). This type of soreness many times is not felt until the next day or otherwise AFTER the cool down period (unless the muscle goes into spasm). There are other more complex types of spasm (say due to nerve irritation) but we will not go into that but only address the two most common types of exercise soreness. The second kind of soreness that is common to exercise is very different from the first. It is usually felt on the reciprocal muscle called the antagonist which is stretched (when the agonist is activated). If the pulling is gentle and not too much release and greater mobility will  be instantly felt.  However OVER stretching can produce small tears in the muscle tissues or even small strains/sprains which are not desired either at the muscle or the tendons.  An even  more dangerous over-stretch can be tears at the tendon attachments to the bone or pulls or tears at  the ligaments (which surround the joint). These latter and more serious injuries (tendon and ligament)) will be felt in the joint area while the previous soreness is felt in the muscle area. Through effective practice in a self awareness modality you will be able to tell the difference, know what is happening as you move, and then learn how to prevent injury. To recap, the first kind of soreness can actually feel good as it reflects a strengthening of muscles, while the second type of soreness can indicate actual injury indicating that you went to far and caused some injury and thus requires that you back off.

Response:

Be careful, and take it slow. Some types of yoga such as ashtanga (and the spin-off: power yoga) get you really hot so you can stretch more deeply.  But the next day you might find (as I do) that you have over-stretched and your hamstrings are sore.

Is slight soreness a sign of over-stretching?

The following strikes me as over-stretching. There has been a few times when I have stretched my hamstrings that I got them warm and got a nice deep stretch that feels good.  But the next day (or for several days) it can be uncomfortable just walking or any small amount of stretching. I can releave the soreness by getting them warm (again) and then they will once again stretch out and feel good (again)… but then the next day the soreness comes back.  The only LASTING relief comes from resting for several days until the pain goes away. The strikes me as over-stretching.

Response:

Dear Scott, Nothing out of the ordinary.  Don’t think of flexability as an "end".  There is no end.  Yoga is the journey.  Enjoy it and be at peace with the idea that you are doing something good for yourself! Love and Laughter, Jack – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –    I am just begining to start yoga. I am having some trouble with flexability.  The fact that I have none;-).  One of my worst areas are my hamstings.  Some of the poses I am attempting I can’t straighten my legs out compleatly.  Some such as Halasana,and Paschimothanasana to name but a few. I was hoping someone could offer some suggestions for my unflexable body? Thanks in advance. Cheers, Scott

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Be careful, and take it slow. Some types of yoga such as ashtanga (and the spin-off: power yoga) get you really hot so you can stretch more deeply.  But the next day you might find (as I do) that you have over-stretched and your hamstrings are sore. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –     I am just begining to start yoga. I am having some trouble with flexability.  The fact that I have none;-).  One of my worst areas are my hamstings.  Some of the poses I am attempting I can’t straighten my legs out compleatly.  Some such as Halasana,and Paschimothanasana to name but a few. I was hoping someone could offer some suggestions for my unflexable body? Thanks in advance. Cheers, Scott

Response:

    I am just begining to start yoga. I am having some trouble with flexability.  The fact that I have none;-).  One of my worst areas are my hamstings.  Some of the poses I am attempting I can’t straighten my legs out compleatly.  Some such as Halasana,and Paschimothanasana to name but a few. I was hoping someone could offer some suggestions for my unflexable body? Thanks in advance. Cheers, Scott

Response:

Hi Scott: Welcome to yoga.    What you’re describing is normal and to be expected. Keep trying, be patient, and you will improve.  You don’t need to be stretched out completely at the beginning.  Good luck and enjoy. Amy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –     I am just begining to start yoga. I am having some trouble with flexability.  The fact that I have none;-).  One of my worst areas are my hamstings.  Some of the poses I am attempting I can’t straighten my legs out compleatly.  Some such as Halasana,and Paschimothanasana to name but a few. I was hoping someone could offer some suggestions for my unflexable body? Thanks in advance. Cheers, Scott

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Question:

My 80 year old grandmother has pretty bad back pain, and it’s getting worse all the time because the pain keeps her from getting any exercise. Does anyone have any recommendations for yoga instructional tapes that particularly focus on the elderly?  I’m hoping particularly for some that show elderly people doing some very basic moves that would help her, so she would be willing to give it a try.  I have a feeling she wouldn’t be interested in videos full of 19 year old kids, but if I had some to show her and do with her that had people of a similar age it might work as a reassurance. Also, are there any particular recommendations for non-strenuous moves to help with the back, other than the Cobra position? Christy Ann

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My 80 year old grandmother has pretty bad back pain, and it’s getting worse all the time because the pain keeps her from getting any exercise. Does anyone have any recommendations for yoga instructional tapes that particularly focus on the elderly?  I’m hoping particularly for some that show elderly people doing some very basic moves that would help her, so she would be willing to give it a try.  I have a feeling she wouldn’t be interested in videos full of 19 year old kids, but if I had some to show her and do with her that had people of a similar age it might work as a reassurance. Also, are there any particular recommendations for non-strenuous moves to help with the back, other than the Cobra position? Christy Ann

Christy Ann, I’m not sure, but you may want to check http://www.livingarts.com . They have LOTS and all types of yoga tapes…they may have what you’re looking for. Good luck. I think yoga would be a wonderful idea your grand mother. -Alicia Snow

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Question:

Should i practice yoga?

Everyone is practicing Yoga. * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Should i practice yoga?

Yes! — "Unsere Sucht liegt haeufig in dem Versuch, irgendeine aeussere Quelle zufriedenzustellen."                                    -Anne Wilson

Response:

Should i practice yoga? Yes!

Why practise, when you can do it for real… — "Unsere Sucht liegt haeufig in dem Versuch, irgendeine aeussere Quelle zufriedenzustellen."                                    -Anne Wilson

Anne Wilson, good German name

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Try yoga at home through a video or book.  Iyengar style are excellent or if you want to sweat try power yoga.  However a caution with yoga.  There are many many many cults that use yoga philosophy as a way to get you in.  Trust me, you are better off without them – unless you feel you like to give away your hard earned money to some guru who knows how to spend it better than you. Nibs – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Should i practice yoga?

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Should i practice yoga?

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Should i practice yoga?

What do you want to do? — Shawn Roske sroske(at)sympatico(dot)ca

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Should i practice yoga?

Do you want practice it? — Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh Kundalini Yoga: http://3ho.home.pages.de/ alt.yoga FAQ:    http://members.xoom.com/altyoga/

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Should i practice yoga? Depends on  what you want to acheive- also depends on what you mean b

Yoga There are two types of Yoga – the physical(of the body) and the mental (of the mind). The physical is also divided into several sudivisions dealing with restraints and ethical values and some physical postures which tone up the body and prepare it for the rigours of yoga of the mind. Similarly yoga of the mind has some divisions dealing with concentration of the mind etc Does this help ? Before you buy.

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Question:

Hey ladies, I resently started exercising (again) for my health and it has really been helping my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Anyways I was wondering if anyone has tried Yoga and how it was help/hurt you?  I got a book at the library today and it looks GREAT.  I plan to add it into my regular regime of floor work. Thanks! take care, Ashley (age 18)

Response:

Hi Ashley, I have tried yoga, and it definately helps me….sometimes I am in too  much pain to do it, but it doesnt take too much energy because it isnt an aerobic workout, find a class or tape which is more for beginners and you will find that it helps you to relax, they also teach breathing techniques.  I live in the uk and have been using Barbara Curries video tape.  Maybe you could try this? I hope you get on well Helen

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey ladies, I resently started exercising (again) for my health and it has really been helping my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.  Anyways I was wondering if anyone has tried Yoga and how it was help/hurt you?  I got a book at the library today and it looks GREAT.  I plan to add it into my regular regime of floor work. Thanks! take care, Ashley (age 18)

Response:

I just wanted to chime in on how great I think Yoga is. In actuality it IS an aerobic exercise.  Aerobic exercise is that which is done "with oxygen" by definition.  However, it is a common misconception that in order to be exercising aerobically you need to be jumping around and putting your body through some kind of test.  This is not the case.  One of the fundamental aspects of Yoga is the breathing.  A lot of people actually take in more oxygen with Yoga because they never exercise so hard that they get "out of breath".  The breathing techniques used in Yoga make the exercise aerobic.  Many celebrities exclusively use forms of yoga to keep in shape. The reason I am giving all this info is that I have been restricted in my ability to work out.  Often times it is too painful for me to do so but I can do some types of yoga.  For all the women here who are struggling with not being able to work out, trust me when I say that deep breathing and stretching is a serious workout so give it a try.  I bet you’ll be amazed at how well it works. Have a great day everyone, Jocelyn Before you buy.

Response:

I was doing yoga but have stopped since my lap on the 4th of Feb.  It is amazing in helping with cramping just before my period.  I use Rodney Yee’s videotapes.  He has quite a few thet are quite popular so you should be able to find them in your area.  There are some stretches and backbends that you shouldn’t do while menstrating.  I just take a few days off and then go back to the normal routine. Good luck!!!! DREAM BIG!

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Question:

Liushu or Bill? i mean eat the  watermelon.  cantaloupe.  bread.  fluids.  tons of water.

Alot of question here myee????  Organic fruit? Type of Bread please? Water yes what type of water? Please inform myself, plus the above posts. myee Butter-Fly hope you all feel better

Is feeling all in the cerebral? Or is it the string that controls the kite? You have a good day myee. Bill It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. Why do we jump on answering posts? Before you buy.

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So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? there are  7 actual types of yoga.. KARMA, BAKTI, HATHA, RAJA, AJAPA,RAJA,  KUDULINI…  THERE ARE OFFSHOOTS OF THESE MAJOR BRANCHES..  IFYOU ARE SEARCHING FOR A PARTICULAR DISIPLINE. IT IS WISE TO RESEARCH THEM.  NEVER.. LET NEVER LET ANYBODY TELLYOU THIER WAY IS THE ONLY WAY..  FIND A PATH  FOR YOURSELF.. AND IF IT PLEASES YOU.. SEARCH FOR ITS GURU.  NOT SOME SELF PONTIFICATING EGO MANIAC.[ AS  THERE ARE MANY IN  THESE FIELDS].. .   YOU WILL KNOW IF WHAT YOU SEARCH FOR  IS RIGHT FOR YOU.. BE CAUTIOUS..  BUT TRUST YOUR HEART.. .. WHAT IS IT EXACTLY YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR???.

For a post that does not shout like you. Someone gentle & soft. — It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. How often do you use your upper case? Before you buy.

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Actually, there is only one (1) yoga. All others are just different parts, flavors, of the One… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? there are  7 actual types of yoga.. KARMA, BAKTI, HATHA, RAJA, AJAPA,RAJA,  KUDULINI…  THERE ARE OFFSHOOTS OF THESE MAJOR BRANCHES..  IFYOU ARE SEARCHING FOR A PARTICULAR DISIPLINE. IT IS WISE TO RESEARCH THEM.  NEVER.. LET NEVER LET ANYBODY TELLYOU THIER WAY IS THE ONLY WAY..  FIND A PATH  FOR YOURSELF.. AND IF IT PLEASES YOU.. SEARCH FOR ITS GURU.  NOT SOME SELF PONTIFICATING EGO MANIAC.[ AS  THERE ARE MANY IN THESE FIELDS].. .   YOU WILL KNOW IF WHAT YOU SEARCH FOR  IS RIGHT FOR YOU.. BE CAUTIOUS..  BUT TRUST YOUR HEART.. .. WHAT IS IT EXACTLY YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR???.

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I prefer repetition in my mantra. guys have a good time. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga…. So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? On 1999/11/21 Peter replied: Try the Sahaja Yoga website …. Sahaja Yoga is a religious cult set up by a woman who calls hersef "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi". She claims to be the incarnation of the Adi Shakti who can perform any miracle and cure any disease – even AIDS. For information on the Sahaja Yoga see: Sahaja Yoga: Facts and Warnings from Ex-Members http://www.sahaja-yoga.org A partial Italian translation can be found at: http://members.xoom.it/xemu/sahaja/saha_menu.htm Tout Sur Sahaja Yoga (French language site) http://members.tripod.com/toutsursahajayoga/sypage1.htm Homepage of the Sahaja Yoga mailing list http://www.geocities.com/yogamail Threaded archive of recent messages to Sahaja Yoga mailing list http://www.mail-archive.com/sahaja-yoga%40onelist.com/ 1.7MB text file of old messages to Sahaja Yoga mailing list from November 4, 1997 through September 20, 1998: http://www.geocities.com/yogamail/archive/syarchiv.txt To subscribe to the Sahaja Yoga mailing list send a blank email to: The Truth about Sahaja Yoga (web-based ‘Delphi’ forum) http://www.delphi.com/SahajaYoga Ex-members of Sahaja Yoga can be contacted

– It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. Useless? Before you buy.

Response:

So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ?

there are  7 actual types of yoga..   KARMA, BAKTI, HATHA, RAJA, AJAPA,RAJA,  KUDULINI…  THERE ARE OFFSHOOTS OF THESE MAJOR BRANCHES..  IFYOU ARE SEARCHING FOR A PARTICULAR DISIPLINE. IT IS WISE TO RESEARCH THEM.  NEVER.. LET NEVER LET ANYBODY TELLYOU THIER WAY IS THE ONLY WAY..  FIND A PATH  FOR YOURSELF.. AND IF IT PLEASES YOU.. SEARCH FOR ITS GURU.  NOT SOME SELF PONTIFICATING EGO MANIAC.[ AS  THERE ARE MANY IN  THESE FIELDS].. .   YOU WILL KNOW IF WHAT YOU SEARCH FOR  IS RIGHT FOR YOU.. BE CAUTIOUS..  BUT TRUST YOUR HEART.. .. WHAT IS IT EXACTLY YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR???.  

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I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga…. So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ?

On 1999/11/21 Peter replied: Try the Sahaja Yoga website ….

Sahaja Yoga is a religious cult set up by a woman who calls hersef "Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi". She claims to be the incarnation of the Adi Shakti who can perform any miracle and cure any disease – even AIDS. For information on the Sahaja Yoga see: Sahaja Yoga: Facts and Warnings from Ex-Members http://www.sahaja-yoga.org A partial Italian translation can be found at: http://members.xoom.it/xemu/sahaja/saha_menu.htm Tout Sur Sahaja Yoga (French language site) http://members.tripod.com/toutsursahajayoga/sypage1.htm Homepage of the Sahaja Yoga mailing list http://www.geocities.com/yogamail Threaded archive of recent messages to Sahaja Yoga mailing list http://www.mail-archive.com/sahaja-yoga%40onelist.com/ 1.7MB text file of old messages to Sahaja Yoga mailing list from November 4, 1997 through September 20, 1998: http://www.geocities.com/yogamail/archive/syarchiv.txt To subscribe to the Sahaja Yoga mailing list send a blank email to: The Truth about Sahaja Yoga (web-based ‘Delphi’ forum) http://www.delphi.com/SahajaYoga Ex-members of Sahaja Yoga can be contacted

Response:

– Steve The Java Resource Dump: http://www.geocities.com/RainForest/Canopy/4774/Java/ The current population of the Earth is 6 billion people. If current birth and death rates continue, the Earth’s population will nearly double in 40 years. The Zero Population Growth Page: http://www.zpg.org/

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Liushu or Bill? o.k. i missed the part about indigestion.  do Sitali breath.  yes. yes. yes. stick the tongue out and roll it.  inhale through the rolled tongue.  nice long deep breath in.  close the mouth.  exhale through the nose.  nice long deep breath out.  continue inhaling through the rolled tongue — (just suck it in like it’s a giant straw or something) and exhaling through the nose. the air will hit that indigested stomach place dead nuts center.  it is very cooling.  and healing.  try 5 minutes.  if it is easy try 11 minutes.  and get some sleep.  o.k. o.k.  if you can not role the tongue then just stick it out and make a U.  and inhale through the U.  the icky yucky taste is just impurities fleeing the body in terror.  these impurities will eventually be cleansed and the icky yucky taste will go away. what are you eating.  tofu is of no use to you if it is gobbed with fried gloppy fatty stuff.  no.  you can not have the fries and the coffee.  throw away…  watermelon.  cantaloupe.  bread.  fluids.  tons of water. myee Butter-Fly o.k.  so once again myee does not understand which the person is that has insomnia and indegestion,  maybe this is for Liushu.  o.k. i am sorry bill22.  but you can try these things, too.

### Thank-you for your insight, Myee   and no — you can not have the fries and coffee either.  no. no. no.

###  *ah* I agree.  :-) You have a peaceful day. Bill It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. Do we need repition? Before you buy.

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o.k. o.k. o.k. if bill22 wants to wake up –

Thank-you Myee, for your knowledge. When it comes to pranayama exercises. I always have an open mind. *But* Please stick with the orginal post like I have? What helps me was a reflection. I forwarded on. Keep well Bill It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. Why do people jump? Before you buy.

Response:

I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga . Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration

Okaaa… I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga Yeap… before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for Yeap.. the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ?

###Have no idea what the posts said above & I’m not going to get into * that* From my expereince personally. Meditation in the *morning* set me to accept challenges at an even level. Meditation in the evening relaxed me…to have a good sleep. Indigestion you have certain yoga postures that should help. novice yoga learner

Good luck on your choice Bill — It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves. –Katherine Mansfield//////Question of the day. Good question on when to be still? Before you buy.

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Try the Sahaja Yoga website at http://www.sahajayoga.org There are many programmes world wide Regards, Peter – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga . Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration . I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? novice yoga learner

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I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga . Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration . I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? novice yoga learner

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namaste- I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga .

yes Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration .

yes, and much much more I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ?

Depends on which asanas you choose to do.  Headstands before bedtime are not a good idea because they energize.  Same with back bends. "Light on Yoga,"by B.K.S. Iyengar is the bible of asanas.  It takes many poses and explains the effects and how to do them properly. I would never reccommend doing yoga without the assistance of a teacher. You will benefit much more, and you won’t be likely to hurt yourself.  Yoga can be very powerful stuff. Good Luck!

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<<I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga . Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration . I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ? novice yoga learner Yes, there are various forms of Yoga or the spiritual disciplines of Hinduism. For example: Karma Yoga (ethics) Bhakti Yoga (devotion) Hatha Yoga (postures) Raja Yoga (meditation) Jnana Yoga (outer and inner study). http://www.classicalyoga.org will give you some genuine information about what is Yoga.

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        Learning on your own is a more challenging way, you are your own teacher. If you treat you student gently and with loving concern there is a lot you can learn. In time you may want to visit another teacher.         Since you are learning yoga to help deal with insomnia and indigestion and you are learning from books I suggest reading two. Relax and Renew by Judith Lasater, and The Heart Of Yoga by Desikachar. They will help you understand that yoga practice can be focused in many different ways. peace, sandra

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Hello fellow human being. I’m trying to yoga on my own . I read somewhere , there are different forms of yoga . Basicaly , yoga is about breathing and concentration . I’m suffering form insomnia and indigestion . Some books recommend yoga before sleeping , as it will relax our muscles . Some books recommend doing yoga in the morning as it will refresh your mind and prepare your body for the day . So which is which ? How could relax and refresh be possible at the same time ? Can anyone please enlighten me ?

  As for insomnia and relaxation, meditation and breathing exercise may be all you need. So, as for instructions, here you are:   At The Third Circle Web Site there is a free online meditations manual, located at the following URL addresses: www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/5715/   (Main Site) members.iol.co.il/weagle/                  (Israeli Site)                                    —   This manual contains twelve very easy and simple, yet quite powerful meditations, or exercises, or means, or aids, or signposts to any spiritual quest and journey. These twelve meditations are included in The Third Circle (TTC), which is an opening to all-that-is and up to infinity.   As simple as they are, each one of these twelve exercises may facilitate and aid progress at any spiritual stand, from the first steps of interest and curiosity about the spiritual, or an attraction to it, and up to achieving the ultimate, supreme, attainment — Self-realization, or enlightenment.   All the meditations and exercises mentioned in this manual may be practiced by self-work, that is — by following the instructions given here. All the necessary information needed to enable practicing these meditations and exercises is included in the given instructions — there is no need for any external teacher, or guide, in order to be able to practice these meditations. Nevertheless, I’m available to reply by email any question concerning the practice of these meditations that may arise.                                    *** A brief introduction to the twelve meditations: * Relaxation:   A very basic and simple relaxation exercise, yet, quite an effective one. Good to be practiced whenever one may be tensed, and at the beginning of every meditation.                                    — * Praying / asking:   Experience shows praying or asking to be very useful and helpful. Believing in God or not, practicing a particular religion or not, doesn’t make much difference here.   TTC is not a religion, not a part of any religion and it is not connected to any religion. Praying is very useful and helpful, regardless whether praying, or asking — God, or the universe — is done in a religious context or not. Here, in TTC, there is no religious context to praying; that is, praying doesn’t mean practicing a religion — not necessarily.   What counts here is our attitude and behavior, not any dogma or set rules. Yet, it is the individual’s choice whether to pray in a religious context or not. In our experience, praying, or asking, is very useful, regardless to whether it’s being done in a religious context or not. TTC, in the context of prayer, have no recommendation pro or con any religion.   One of the reasons that praying or asking is very helpful is that by praying or asking we direct our attention away from our small self, or ego, to a higher ideal. It serves us in widening our perspective, expanding our boundaries.   Another reason for it being beneficial is that by praying or asking we direct our attention to the desired results and goals. Directing our attention serves the flow of energy to and from the desired result or attainment. This energy flow assists in the actual attainment of our goals.                                    — * Shielding:   It is an energetic and astral grounding and shielding. Good to be practiced in any case, especially when we may feel being attacked, or drained energetically. It is a suggested protection for meditations, aiding in blocking unwanted energies and entities from entering our meditations.   Please bear in mind that in the relative universe nothing is absolute, thus — there is no absolute protection and no absolute shielding. Ultimately, one’s free will and choices are the best possible protection — over time. Nevertheless, this shielding exercise is a recommended practice.   Some choose to practice it as a part of their daily routine, some choose to practice it as the first stage of every meditation, some choose to practice it when feeling a need, and some choose not to practice it at all. It’s up to you.                                    — * Simple Breathing Exercise (Pranayama):   Prana is the Sanskrit word for the universal life force — the force that sustains life in all living creatures. In Chinese, this universal life force is called Ki, or Chi, hence, Tai-Chi.   Pranayama – Yogi breathing exercises – is one of the eight limbs of Yoga – for the value and benefit of Pranayama is paramount. It is extremely relaxing, invigorating — it purifies the body, mind, soul and spirit.   This Simple Breathing Exercise (Pranayama) is indeed very simple and easy to practice, yet, it is highly valuable. This simple Pranayama may be practiced by itself and it may serve as an excellent preamble to any meditation and spiritual exercise.                                    — * Body-Feeling Meditation:   At times, if you may feel very tired, moody, tensed, agitated, low energies, irritated, impatient, drained out, spaced out, disconnected, the mind is not very clear, etc — it is recommended to elevate your feeling, mood or energies with the Body-Feeling Meditation.   This meditation is very effective in releasing stress and strain from our nervous system and physical body. By releasing stress and strain from the physical body and nervous system, simultaneously we are releasing mental, psychological and spiritual stress and blocks, opening our energy channels to a better flow, enabling a clearer mind and consciousness.   Another benefit of this meditation is increasing our awareness to our body.   This meditation can be practiced, upon getting acquainted with it, anytime anyplace, while walking, talking, driving etc.                                    — * The Silence Meditation:   The Silence Meditation, along The Aum Mantra Meditation, are the Jewel-Crest of all spiritual practices. Specifying all their benefits will take many pages.   In brief: they are the most effective and direct means to connect the unbounded ocean of truth and wisdom lying inside the silent chambers of our hearts. They are great aids in connecting our Higher Self and, ultimately, our Supreme Self.   This meditation is relaxing and have numerous beneficial effects on our body and mind, health, consciousness, clarity of thinking, energy level, developing our intuition, widening our perspective and expanding our boundaries.   The Silence Meditation may serve as a springboard to all other spiritual practices and exercises. It is very natural, very easy to practice. It is devoid of any connection to any teaching, tradition, dogma or religion. TTC is an opening, not a teaching.   Connecting the ocean of silence inside gives momentum to all our actions, facilitates and speeds up attaining all goals.   Ultimately, The Silence Meditation is a great aid in attaining Self-realization, or enlightenment — upon aspiring this supreme attainment.                                    — * The Aum Mantra Meditation:   The Aum Mantra Meditation, along The Silence Meditation, are the Jewel-Crest of all spiritual practices. Specifying all their benefits will take many pages.   In brief: they are the most effective and direct means to connect the unbounded ocean of truth and wisdom lying inside the silent chambers of our hearts. They are great aids in connecting our Higher Self and, ultimately, our Supreme Self.   This meditation is relaxing and have numerous beneficial effects on our body and mind, health, consciousness, clarity of thinking, energy level, developing our intuition, widening our perspective and expanding our boundaries.   The Aum Mantra Meditation may serve as a springboard to all other spiritual practices and exercises. It is very natural, very easy to practice. It is not conflicting with any teaching, tradition, dogma or religion.   Connecting the Supreme Self, or the ocean of inner silence, gives momentum to all our actions, facilitates and speeds up attaining all goals.   Ultimately, The Aum Mantra Meditation is a great aid in attaining Self-realization, or enlightenment — upon aspiring this supreme attainment.                                    — * Healing The Inner Child   Some people don’t get in childhood all the love they deserve and need. At times, children are being wounded emotionally. As we grow and mature, often we carry with us the scars born of the emotional wounds we acquired as little children. Thus, as we go on in life, we often carry with us a hurt and wounded child. Those emotional scars within us, this wounded child in us, affects our psychological makeup as long as the scars and wounds are there. Healing The Inner Child enables us to gain greater emotional and psychological maturity.   The view presented by The Third Circle holds that spiritual growth and human growth are the very same process. Growing as a human being means growing spiritually and true spiritual growth means growing as a human being. Thus, Healing The Inner Child has great value in both our human growth and spiritual evolution.   This is a very simple, yet, extremely powerful exercise, based on guided imagery. It is healing of very deep layers of our psyche, which may remain healed for as long as we live. Healing the inner child may increase your love to yourself and thus increase your love to others — your ability to genuinely … read more »

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Thank you very much Ma’am Samantha you provide nice definition for the different systems of Brahman-Atman Yoga The Niyamas: Shaucha (purity of body and mind), Santosha (contentment in all circumstances), Tapas (austerity), Swadhaya (constructive self-analysis), and Ishwara-Pranidhana/guru-sevana (devotion to God and guru)

Why is guru-sevana added? I believe seva means unselfish service or something. Basically you are right of course only I wonder why you did not leave it with Ishvara pranidhana – surrender to The Highest (God or (Sat(guru) does not matter)? Asana also means "posture comfortably held". Done properly Sirshasana (transverse posture/headstand), Sarvangasana (shoulderstand), and Paschimothanasana (forward bend) coupled with pranayam and short meditation when practiced a few times each day especially by "busy people" gives peace of mind, massages the glands, provides a nice workout, and relieve stress.

Asan(a), to reac Aas, non moving. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Pranayama means "life-force control or breath regulation" (a neophyte on the practice of pranayam at first inhales only oxygen and other gases but as he grows [progress] on the process there will come a time when he is already inhaling, circulating, and exhaling pure prana. Simple pranayam procedure is to inhale through the nose for 20 seconds, hold the breath for 20 seconds, and exhale through the mouth for another 20 seconds. This constitutes a cycle one can do 6 to 12 cycles of this, tense and relax the muscles a few times and go to deep contemplation. Pratyahara means the withdrawal of the senses from their objects. This is why aakama (desirelessness) is an important virtue to acquire. Dharana refers to the process of holding the mind to one thought like a mantra (lit. "that which takes away anxiety" usually Sanskrit power words") or a tranquil scene (visualization) or the darshan of the Sat-guru. Dhayana (meditation) resulting to Samadhi absorption or perfect oneness (Brahman-Atman) the goal of Yoga.

? I thought it is liberation Of course there are different levels of Samadhi here I am referring to nirvikalpa/soruba samadhi.

Why mention only this one? What about Nirvicara/savicara Nirananda Asmita Samadhi (to mention a few)? I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share these things to you. The primary message of Yoga is love. AUM TAT SAT!

Yes! And as always that poses questions… Thanks for sharing in Love – Namaste

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To all, Why did you start practising yoga and how do you feel you have benefitted by it.  Have your views on the subject changed over time?

Hello Samantha! So nice to read your mail. To answer your question. Yes. I started doing (Hatha) yoga in 1968. By then there was not much choice like today. I felt it is good all the exercises, and I too found I became more supple. I had a feeling there was more to it than could be found here, and it is not reality what was being sold in the shops and boutiques but commercial (yes, then already). So on first opportunity I left for India to find out for myself. This changed a lot for me. Many years later only I became more interested in Yoga again, because asa i was not too much involved for about 10 years, the effects of 3 years of yoga rubbed off and it did’nt become less as the years passed. I have read a lot about the backgrounds, but only after I started to practice again, together with studying the subjects, I became able to integrate it in my life. Now I still practice Yogasana’s, but the main issue is meditation now. PAtanjali has described this very accuratly in his Sutra’s. Yes, my yoga has changed, so to speak ‘from the head more towards the heart.’ Especially since I have finished this really great teachers course I became really enthusiastic about it. Yoga is SO great! It’s main POWER is Love. That you have seen and experienced (I believe) very well! Sometimes when I read this newsgroup and hear anger distrust and bikering, I feel bad, but then something rises inside of me, it is love. No matter what you may be, what you do evil or good, I still love you all and this brings tears of joy to my eyes.  When I let myself be happy I am estatic, it floods through my veins.

This is Meditation and even Samadhi you experienced, no doubt! A correct description of Ananda Samadhi! This fills me with joy too I am so glad I decided to get in touch with myself, before it was too late.

It is never too late! This is my life, this is yoga.

And mine, I believe… Love everything and in doing so you love thyself. Right! )) Samantha.

Love to you all – Namaste – Paul.

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why yoga? Shaktipat!  Thank God! Love, Garuda

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To Inflight, In response to your question about yoga I was referrring to all types of yoga, not just hatha, which is union by bodily control using asanas kryias pranyamas and bandhas, but also by: Jnana, union of knowledge, Bhakti, union by love, and devotion, Karma, union by service, Mantra, union by speech meaning recitation of sacred syllables or mantras, Raja, union by mental control meaning mastery of the mind and senses. Plus the eight limbs of yoga: Yama, Niyama Asana Pranayama Dharana Dyana Pratyahara Samadhi So in my reference to yoga I include all various syles of yoga groups, including, Iyengar, Bikram, Viniyoga, Kundalini, Bhuddist, Tantra, aqua, Kripalu, Sivanada, Ananda, Integral, Sahaja;  to name a few, etc etc. When I say yoga I also mean the yoga of a woman feeding her family before she sits down to feed herself.  I could go on and on here giving examples trying not to leave everyone out.  But I will leave it here.  So I hope this answers your question about yoga. Love Samantha. That’s nice Samantha! You have studying your Hinduism. (I like the new name Inflight  

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That’s nice Samantha, but what do you mean by "yoga?" Are you speaking about only Hatha Yoga? Of course, there are several progressive yogic spiritual disciplines that make up the religion of Hinduism. They are truly wonderful and profound.

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That’s nice Samantha, but what do you mean by "yoga?" Are you speaking about only Hatha Yoga? Of course, there are several progressive yogic spiritual disciplines that make up the religion of Hinduism. They are truly wonderful and profound. To Inflight, In response to your question about yoga I was referrring to all types of yoga, not just hatha, which is union by bodily control using asanas kryias pranyamas and bandhas, but also by: Jnana, union of knowledge, Bhakti, union by love, and devotion, Karma, union by service, Mantra, union by speech meaning recitation of sacred syllables or mantras, Raja, union by mental control meaning mastery of the mind and senses. Plus the eight limbs of yoga: Yama, Niyama Asana Pranayama Dharana Dyana Pratyahara Samadhi So in my reference to yoga I include all various syles of yoga groups, including, Iyengar, Bikram, Viniyoga, Kundalini, Bhuddist, Tantra, aqua, Kripalu, Sivanada, Ananda, Integral, Sahaja;  to name a few, etc etc. When I say yoga I also mean the yoga of a woman feeding her family before she sits down to feed herself.  I could go on and on here giving examples trying not to leave everyone out.  But I will leave it here.  So I hope this answers your question about yoga. Love Samantha.

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Samantha,         Thank you for a lovely and inspiring post. peace, sandra

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To all, Why did you start practising yoga and how do you feel you have benefitted by it.  Have your views on the subject changed over time? I myself went into yoga for physical reasons.  I had begun to live a couch potatoe existence and wanted something to help regain the flexibility I had as a kid.  Well since that little book I was given for christmas 97, I have felt the goodness, the happiness of life return.  Not just the physical benefits, but its mental movements.  It brought me back to myself, as I  had forgotten who I was.  Now I sleep eat and live yoga.  It is all pervading and I feel comforted by its familiar presence, long forgotten but now awake once again. Some days I feel like I am pulling the titanic out of bed, for a moment I may chide myself but then I remember who I am, and I am filled with happiness, and acceptance at what the day brings. Somedays I do a really good asana and I feel the urge to compete against myself and then I feel the peacefulness surface inside and tell me to just be there, just accept, just be.   Sometimes when I read this newsgroup and hear anger distrust and bikering, I feel bad, but then something rises inside of me, it is love.  No matter what you may be, what you do evil or good, I still love you all and this brings tears of joy to my eyes.  When I let myself be happy I am estatic, it floods through my veins.  I am so glad I decided to get in touch with myself, before it was too late. This is my life, this is yoga. So tell your story, bring your joy into the world. Love everything and in doing so you love thyself. Samantha.

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I forgot to add.  If you are unsure of your teaching abilities.  Talk to the person who instructed you.  Although they are not teaching at this time, they may offer help.

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A yoga teacher is just that, a yoga teacher.  Not a Guru.  A Guru is a Guru.   I have been teaching hatha yoga for many years now, and although I am experienced in teaching, I still feel limited in my knowlege.  There is always more to learn. What I do is start with the physical.  I teach the stretches and focusing your awareness on the breath, motion and state of the body during the postures.  I hardly ever place much focus on whats happening on the subtle level as we do the stretches.  Except, of course, to let the students know that it is more than just a physical practice.   What I have found is that many students discover the subtle on their own. Because it is the concetration of the awareness that brings us this experience, it is a personal experience, and if the practice is done correctly and continuously, it is inevitable that you will stumble upon the subtle.   With meditation, I merely explain the technique.  Once again, there is no need for me to go any further on the subject.  You do the technique and you get the benefit.  I don’t pretend to know more than I do.  I only let people know what I know from my own personal experience of the practice or the subtle energy. And once again, it is a personal experience, I can only pass on the instruction.  And there is no danger in that.  Only a Guru can give a direct experience to that subtle energy.   I would recommend teaching the postures and meditation technique.  I have found that since teaching, my experience of what is happening in my own body and subtle energy has deepened.  I listen harder because I need to instruct my students what they should look for in the way of a stretch or where they may be holding on to tension.  Teaching has been one of the most rewarding experiences outside of my own personal practice of meditation. If a student ever experiences something that is beyond my capability to explain or understand, I always gives suggestions of Gurus to seek for help.  My Guru is the most accessable in my area, but I always give other options as well. Besides, it is their personal choice to find the Guru.   I hope this helps. Pritam

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Thomas,         My teacher told me I can teach what I know. The challenge sometimes is recognizing the limit of my knowledge. This will probably apply to you as well.         Learning to teach yoga through formal study has certainly expanded my scope as a teacher, and yet I feel such a beginner so often. There’s so much to learn. Keep exploring, keep your teaching simple. Also empower your students that they have the ultimate knowledge of themselves. All teachers do is shine a light along the path, it is up to the student to travel on their own journey.         peace, sandra

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Nemaste,     I’ve been learning yoga for almost a year now, with fairly regular practice (3+ times/week).  I’m very excited about what I have been learning and some of this excitement is rubbing of on friends, etc.  A few months back I started a weekly "meditation" group dedicated to raising consciousness and peace.  We do lots of stuff besides mediate – usually we have a session of laying on of hands or of other energy-type experiments to relax and share with the participant.  It’s mostly younger people around my age (20) so many of them have not had much experience with these sorts of activities.  I have pretty much "the most experience" (previous lifetimes karma still uncertain  ) so I tend to be the one who comes up with activities for the group.  Many of my "circle friends" have been asking me questions for their own spiritual growth and some have asked that I teach some yoga at a circle.  Is this a good idea?  I have read ?much? on many types of yoga (hatha, raja and kundalini in particular) as a result of my life experiences to date.  I also have a teacher whom I love and trust – she’s not teaching at the moment however, so I can’t just send ‘em on over to her.  I feel fairly confident in my own practice to this point and feel that I have progressed well.  I am still only learning though, and esp. about the forces of the other bodies.  I think that in the name of consciousness and peace nothing that I teach can be wrong but maybe I’m naive on that score.  Anyway, any feedback this group provides is another point of view – I can only benefit from. Om shianti shianti shianti Om.                                             Peace,                                         Thomas Maguire

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