Question:

Justin, Its none of that stuff its either jay or jai which is short for jewel as J…….comprendre compadre mi nombre es J no es HHHHHHH verdad amigo esta bueno hasta…. dudester. J

Response:

I’m not to hot on Soya milk. Next time i want a boost pehaps i could just skip the asanas and go straight for a bowl of meusli. Jai Ram. or is it Jai Ham, Lam, Yam or Vam

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greeting, Soymilk on oat based breakfast cereals.JD

Response:

I’m not familiar with Cakravakasana  or Sivasana?

Hi Justin, Cakravakasana is also known as cat/cow, cat/dog, or cat’s breath. You’re on all fours, arching the back, lifting the chest and looking up on the inhale, hunching the back, chin tucked on the exhale. Start the movement in the pelvis and roll up the spine. Sivasana is corpse pose or relaxation pose where you’re flat on your back, palms up, eyes closed and relaxing! Namaste!

Response:

Thanks Bettyrubble.     Presumably this is like a warm up and warm down sequence around Sarvangasana.     I’m not familiar with Cakravakasana  or Sivasana? I like the way Viniyoga moves with the breath Sat Nam-Justin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Are there any specific yoga workouts that directly balance the endocrine system and the glands? Here’s a Viniyoga sequence for the endocrine system. Each posture is done several times as a slow, flowing sequence before moving to the next (except 5 & 6). 1. Cakravakasana (cat/cow) 2. Uttanasana 3. Vajrasana (starting from a kneeling position w/ arms overhead, exhaling to child’s pose, inhaling back up to knees). 4.Variation of bridge: Lay flat on back, knees up, inhale lift hips and arms go overhead. 5. Sarvangasana 6. Matsyasana 7. Urdhva Prasarita Padasana. Lay on back, knees bent to chest, inhale, lift legs straight toward ceiling and arms overhead. Exhale, arms and knees return. 8. Pashimatanasana w/ bent knees, tucking chin on exhale. 9. Alternate nostril breathing 10. Sivasana

Response:

Greeting, Soymilk on oat based breakfast cereals.JD

Response:

Are there any specific yoga workouts that directly balance the endocrine system and the glands?

Here’s a Viniyoga sequence for the endocrine system. Each posture is done several times as a slow, flowing sequence before moving to the next (except 5 & 6). 1. Cakravakasana (cat/cow) 2. Uttanasana 3. Vajrasana (starting from a kneeling position w/ arms overhead, exhaling to child’s pose, inhaling back up to knees). 4.Variation of bridge: Lay flat on back, knees up, inhale lift hips and arms go overhead. 5. Sarvangasana 6. Matsyasana 7. Urdhva Prasarita Padasana. Lay on back, knees bent to chest, inhale, lift legs straight toward ceiling and arms overhead. Exhale, arms and knees return. 8. Pashimatanasana w/ bent knees, tucking chin on exhale. 9. Alternate nostril breathing 10. Sivasana

Response:

Are there any specific yoga workouts that directly balance the endocrine system and the glands? I would have thought a sequence of inversions after sun salutes or something, but i guess an all round benefit ccomes from regular practice. Sat Nam – Justin

Response:

Question:

Thankyou Greenlight, Between the reason of the mind and passion of the heart – Om — — peace be the journey — – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Namaste! This reply will necessarily be incomplete. Overall I feel that there is a jostling going on — an externally imposed disturbance upon the body, energy, and psychic systems in your practice by an element in your will. If so, then the overall question is how do we really bring peace, balance, love, and gentleness into our daily bio-psychic reality, into the breath and nervous system and how does it leave (become corrupted)? Success in practice is benefited by a clean warm and quiet place; pure and balanced food; friends on the path, and the like. It’s easy to make it seem complicated to attain these conditions, but can you keep it simple and simplify without sacrificing these conditions? In work every moment gives us an opportunity to read our own biopsychic energy, read our samskaras, and be able to allow a loving transformation occur. In general during the "holiday" season, people too often become ramped up, overly rajasic, harried, speeded up, short tempered, and stressed out (symptoms of an overly active sympathetic nervous system) so the challenge (for me) is to how to bring peace and laughter out for ALL concerned (including ourselves). .When I give myself  deep peace, a gentle healing time,  love and beauty —  it naturally comes through. This desire to do yoga all day is a gift — it is activating/self activating, but the challenge is in balance and integration. Purification, activation, and integration are three aspects of the SAME process. Not everyone is at a stage where they can do yoga all day in the sun and clean air, but if this calls to you, see if you can arrange it in the future. Shakti speaks to us always, but in the cities, her voice is not heard by the majority of humans and hence "help" may appear less available  – but I have learned that it is far better to EXPECT such help (in the form of Grace) in any case even though it may take an "unexpected" FORM. So when I give myself a yoga HOLYDAY, I also must integrate this in mundane activities (so that they too allow for the grace). This is the application of  balance where the distinction between what is not sacred (mundane) goes away –simply becomes a situation that is defined by me going asleep or falling into ignorance. And so yes, I purify, let go simplify, empty… re-activated  – reintegrated  – purification … etc. Yes, you are right, this is part of what is meant as isvara pranidhana – as an affirmation of the integration — of the Integration reality which you know. Is there really any place that it does not exist (except in ignorance)? Citrus fruits can be harsh for some and they can make the breathing some what erratic. They usually do not combine well with other foods — many recommend eating them only with other citrus fruits (except lemons which seem to combine with other fruits better). One of my favorites is combining lemons and honey or with other organic juices. Citrus is usually very cooling so their use in Northern climates in the winter may be of less value. Of course you are in a better position than I to evaluate their effect. Obviously tea and coffee can cause disturbances to the nervous system as well as any over eating. Well we could go on (I am a big believer in diet (avoiding certain foods) and the effect of foods upon the nervous system. Make sure that the asana practice is gentle (especially now) and balancing. Make an effort to Integrate santosha and balance into your daily life and observe how such may become distracted.  In such situations control of the breath can be causative (both in terms of a cure and the cause of such disturbances). In this regard you can try to eliminate pranayama as an experiment except to allow for the conditions to occur that produce deep diaphragmatic breathing. Is it difficult to make time for joy and happiness — so make the practice joyful and as an exploration, rather than a duty. What about no longer "thinking" that the asana practice ends after shavasana, but continues the rest of the day — in work, walking, eating, elimination, talking, etc. — every moment can we find that special balance and bring that into our life (and the life of others)? In hatha,. kundalini, and tantra  yoga, balance is not some neutral idea nor does it simply mean sattva in its most common usage, but it addresses the profound dynamic energetics of the entire universe as Siva/Shakti –a kinesthetic reality which if balanced within the yogi (in the pingala/ida) moves us into our core energy — the middle path or sushumna.  Thus learning balance (and how it becomes lost) is one of the deepest yogic  teachings in "Self" awareness (swadhyaya) plays an important role.. When i meditate which is for me not always just sitting, but could be playing the guitar, i feel really creatively alive, i can almost feel my brain expanding. That said. On the whole i rarely feel much "love" and wouldn’t know who to give the "love" to? Is this where Iswara Pranidhana has meaning? Isvara pranidhana is for you — you surrender to that Great Process taht is beyond the concept of individual existence and having arrived there, then you naturally express it (this unending love). Nature- animals,insects,birds and all the amazing geographic locations i see on TV amaze me. I don’t know if it’s my natural tendency or if i am overly shaped by my environment but most of the time i am more worried about careers,money, to give my concentration to nature or to just "let go" perhaps i would do well to throw away the past/all of the posessions and go live in a cave high on a mountain,beneath the glorious sun…….that would be a road less travelled!! When i try to socialise, lots of times i lose my voice and feel like a "Danger Mouse" i stutter and my voice goes too deep, although i can sing very well at high pitch and have a good popeye impersonation- but that’s besides the point i guess. Well, i hope you don’t mind me spilling my heart out! When this unending love is lost or buried, we can feel remorse and sadness. This is teh swing of moods is it not. So the remedy is simple "it" never leaves us, but we leave it. On epath is when we get intexicated by God’s love, to share it  in daily life with others who are not experiencing it or who otherwise have slipped into forgetfulness. You can also practice this with your "self" — saying to yourself"Oh I am experinecing GREAT love and grace now, and I share this with that part of myself which is estranged fro it — who gets lost on the path — who feels estranged  and abandoned at those "other" times — In otherwords how much of the ecstasy is due to the simple removal of the fragmentation? We can continue this later if you like! Yes, the sun — beautiful creeks and forests  – friends Jai Ma! I’m ranting on now so i will bid you good day and" hold the light and love in my heart" Hari Om Jai!

Response:

Freerider! Namaste! This reply will necessarily be incomplete. Overall I feel that there is a jostling going on — an externally imposed disturbance upon the body, energy, and psychic systems in your practice by an element in your will. If so, then the overall question is how do we really bring peace, balance, love, and gentleness into our daily bio-psychic reality, into the breath and nervous system and how does it leave (become corrupted)? Success in practice is benefited by a clean warm and quiet place; pure and balanced food; friends on the path, and the like. It’s easy to make it seem complicated to attain these conditions, but can you keep it simple and simplify without sacrificing these conditions? In work every moment gives us an opportunity to read our own biopsychic energy, read our samskaras, and be able to allow a loving transformation occur. In general during the "holiday" season, people too often become ramped up, overly rajasic, harried, speeded up, short tempered, and stressed out (symptoms of an overly active sympathetic nervous system) so the challenge (for me) is to how to bring peace and laughter out for ALL concerned (including ourselves). .When I give myself  deep peace, a gentle healing time,  love and beauty —  it naturally comes through. This desire to do yoga all day is a gift — it is activating/self activating, but the challenge is in balance and integration. Purification, activation, and integration are three aspects of the SAME process. Not everyone is at a stage where they can do yoga all day in the sun and clean air, but if this calls to you, see if you can arrange it in the future. Shakti speaks to us always, but in the cities, her voice is not heard by the majority of humans and hence "help" may appear less available  – but I have learned that it is far better to EXPECT such help (in the form of Grace) in any case even though it may take an "unexpected" FORM. So when I give myself a yoga HOLYDAY, I also must integrate this in mundane activities (so that they too allow for the grace). This is the application of  balance where the distinction between what is not sacred (mundane) goes away –simply becomes a situation that is defined by me going asleep or falling into ignorance. And so yes, I purify, let go simplify, empty… re-activated  – reintegrated  – purification … etc. Yes, you are right, this is part of what is meant as isvara pranidhana – as an affirmation of the integration — of the Integration reality which you know. Is there really any place that it does not exist (except in ignorance)? Citrus fruits can be harsh for some and they can make the breathing some what erratic. They usually do not combine well with other foods — many recommend eating them only with other citrus fruits (except lemons which seem to combine with other fruits better). One of my favorites is combining lemons and honey or with other organic juices. Citrus is usually very cooling so their use in Northern climates in the winter may be of less value. Of course you are in a better position than I to evaluate their effect. Obviously tea and coffee can cause disturbances to the nervous system as well as any over eating. Well we could go on (I am a big believer in diet (avoiding certain foods) and the effect of foods upon the nervous system. Make sure that the asana practice is gentle (especially now) and balancing. Make an effort to Integrate santosha and balance into your daily life and observe how such may become distracted.  In such situations control of the breath can be causative (both in terms of a cure and the cause of such disturbances). In this regard you can try to eliminate pranayama as an experiment except to allow for the conditions to occur that produce deep diaphragmatic breathing. Is it difficult to make time for joy and happiness — so make the practice joyful and as an exploration, rather than a duty. What about no longer "thinking" that the asana practice ends after shavasana, but continues the rest of the day — in work, walking, eating, elimination, talking, etc. — every moment can we find that special balance and bring that into our life (and the life of others)? In hatha,. kundalini, and tantra  yoga, balance is not some neutral idea nor does it simply mean sattva in its most common usage, but it addresses the profound dynamic energetics of the entire universe as Siva/Shakti –a kinesthetic reality which if balanced within the yogi (in the pingala/ida) moves us into our core energy — the middle path or sushumna.  Thus learning balance (and how it becomes lost) is one of the deepest yogic  teachings in "Self" awareness (swadhyaya) plays an important role.. When i meditate which is for me not always just sitting, but could be playing the guitar, i feel really creatively alive, i can almost feel my brain expanding. That said. On the whole i rarely feel much "love" and wouldn’t know who to give the "love" to? Is this where Iswara Pranidhana has meaning?

Isvara pranidhana is for you — you surrender to that Great Process taht is beyond the concept of individual existence and having arrived there, then you naturally express it (this unending love). – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Nature- animals,insects,birds and all the amazing geographic locations i see on TV amaze me. I don’t know if it’s my natural tendency or if i am overly shaped by my environment but most of the time i am more worried about careers,money, to give my concentration to nature or to just "let go" perhaps i would do well to throw away the past/all of the posessions and go live in a cave high on a mountain,beneath the glorious sun…….that would be a road less travelled!! When i try to socialise, lots of times i lose my voice and feel like a "Danger Mouse" i stutter and my voice goes too deep, although i can sing very well at high pitch and have a good popeye impersonation- but that’s besides the point i guess. Well, i hope you don’t mind me spilling my heart out!

When this unending love is lost or buried, we can feel remorse and sadness. This is teh swing of moods is it not. So the remedy is simple "it" never leaves us, but we leave it. On epath is when we get intexicated by God’s love, to share it  in daily life with others who are not experiencing it or who otherwise have slipped into forgetfulness. You can also practice this with your "self" — saying to yourself"Oh I am experinecing GREAT love and grace now, and I share this with that part of myself which is estranged fro it — who gets lost on the path — who feels estranged  and abandoned at those "other" times — In otherwords how much of the ecstasy is due to the simple removal of the fragmentation? We can continue this later if you like! Yes, the sun — beautiful creeks and forests  – friends Jai Ma! I’m ranting on now so i will bid you good day and" hold the light and love in my heart" Hari Om

Jai!

Response:

Hi Sahaj,     I’m well stressed out over financial debts and worries, this has made me practice very sporadically and i feel almost guilty that i should be out working to pay my way rather than practicing and learning hatha yoga. In terms of asanas i do a short viniyoga practice in the morning with some Sitali breathing and also uddiyana bandhas, and then i might do headstands, shoulderstands and padmasana variations for a while before relaxing in savasana. My practice is very spontaneous and a lot to do with how i feel (especially in terms of nasal breathing) Having said that it’s very easy for me to lose motivation and not to have the self-respect to practice. My diet- Vegetarian, lots of citrus fuits, nuts, tomatoes,potatoes, also lots of bread and cereal not what i would call ideally yogic/sattvic because i also eat choccy and drink coffee and beer and tea. I can sense that i am binge-ing like i used to before i started practicing hatha, sometimes overeating just for the chewing and taste- then feeling tired and all my energy is digesting. On the other hand i get days when all i want to do is non-stop yoga and mantras, when i don’t eat ,and feel very in-touch with the stomach and body. It’s unbelievable how much my mood swings, at times i just have complete peace and calm, sadly though i have to come back down to earth and face what seems like no future and financial decadance! When i meditate which is for me not always just sitting, but could be playing the guitar, i feel really creatively alive, i can almost feel my brain expanding. That said. On the whole i rarely feel much "love" and wouldn’t know who to give the "love" to? Is this where Iswara Pranidhana has meaning? Nature- animals,insects,birds and all the amazing geographic locations i see on TV amaze me. I don’t know if it’s my natural tendency or if i am overly shaped by my environment but most of the time i am more worried about careers,money, to give my concentration to nature or to just "let go" perhaps i would do well to throw away the past/all of the posessions and go live in a cave high on a mountain,beneath the glorious sun…….that would be a road less travelled!! When i try to socialise, lots of times i lose my voice and feel like a "Danger Mouse" i stutter and my voice goes too deep, although i can sing very well at high pitch and have a good popeye impersonation- but that’s besides the point i guess. Well, i hope you don’t mind me spilling my heart out! I’m ranting on now so i will bid you good day and" hold the light and love in my heart" Hari Om — — peace be the journey —

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Freerider What’s your diet and practice like? If you are doing pranayama, you might want to modify it. For instance eliminate any kumbhaka or externally imposed disruptions for awhile? Can you find access to nature and consult with her? What happens in meditation? Who is this "I" who doesn’t even know it exists? My best guess is that we are here to joyfully manifest and explore love –acting as arms. legs, eyes, and voices of creation/creator, but of course there exist many other widespread opinions. Hold the light and love in your heart and "peace be the journey"

Response:

I keep experiencing unusual breathing patterns and feelings of "spaced out" as if i’m breathing in an out of body type of way. This and thinking of what is not thinking, i don’t even know that i exist!!? Is this unusual? I feel like there is no purpose for me to join in with everyday life as it is. and are there any suggestions as to what i can do with my life? And what is the purpose? — — peace be the journey —

Response:

Freerider What’s your diet and practice like? If you are doing pranayama, you might want to modify it. For instance eliminate any kumbhaka or externally imposed disruptions for awhile? Can you find access to nature and consult with her? What happens in meditation? Who is this "I" who doesn’t even know it exists? My best guess is that we are here to joyfully manifest and explore love –acting as arms. legs, eyes, and voices of creation/creator, but of course there exist many other widespread opinions. Hold the light and love in your heart and "peace be the journey"

Response:

Question:

Hi chris,     I live in Bucks, where i have been learning and practicing yoga for about 4 years. There are a handful of local classes in the area aswell as individual instuctors from home.     Viniyoga Britain have qualified teachers in most counties, surf to the FAQ for links. — — peace be the journey —

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am interested in learning either classical (Raja) or Kundalini Yoga…. is there anywhere I can find tition in this area? (could travel down to N.London at a pinch) Chris.

Response:

I am interested in learning either classical (Raja) or Kundalini Yoga…. is there anywhere I can find tition in this area? (could travel down to N.London at a pinch) Chris.

Dear Chris, you can find qualified teachers for Kundalini Yoga in London  in the online teacher directory at: http://www.kundaliniyoga.com/ Good luck! Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh

Response:

I am interested in learning either classical (Raja) or Kundalini Yoga…. is there anywhere I can find tition in this area? (could travel down to N.London at a pinch) Chris.

Seems your a bit confused as to what is Yoga Chris. All of these Hindu spiritual disciplines are prgressive (classical) in nature. Though there are some specific Kundalini practices, the yogic lifestyle itself awakens the Kundalini and starts the whole mystical process to Spiritual-realization. Try the Murugan temple in London!

Response:

I am interested in learning either classical (Raja) or Kundalini Yoga…. is there anywhere I can find tition in this area? (could travel down to N.London at a pinch) Chris.

Response:

Question:

Today i had a first chance to experience some one-on -one Viniyoga instruction, and i can thoroughly recommend how really full on amazing it is. Lots of emphasis on the breathe and flowing movements (vinyasa) gave me so much to work on  and develop. Anyone who’s read Desikachars Heart of Yoga may be interested to know, Viniyoga Britain represents him and his dad’s fabulous real time yoga, straight from the book! — — peace be the journey —

Response:

Interesting….Thank-you – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Today i had a first chance to experience some one-on -one Viniyoga instruction, and i can thoroughly recommend how really full on amazing it is. Lots of emphasis on the breathe and flowing movements (vinyasa) gave me so much to work on  and develop. Anyone who’s read Desikachars Heart of Yoga may be interested to know, Viniyoga Britain represents him and his dad’s fabulous real time yoga, straight from the book! — — peace be the journey —

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

Response:

Question:

Hello I’m a student studying Complementary Therapies. I have to do a three hour presentation on yoga therapy in healthcare. I have no idea how to go about this or any experience of yoga in this field. Does anyone have any ideas or resources they could point me to? If so, I would be very grateful if you could e-mail me. Blessings Sarah

Response:

<A HREF="http://members.xoom.com/altyoga/"Frequently asked questions – FAQ page of alt.yo

Question:

This is really too broad a question.  But the two viniyoga books would be a good place to start. Yoga for Body Breath and Mind by AG Mohan and The Heart of Yoga by Desikachara.  These are authorative but only an introduction.  A hard to find, out of print classic is Hatha Yoga by Theo Bernard.  Well worth it to hunt down.  One of the major influences of the west for hatha yoga. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Could anyone recommend books that would cover a broad range of Yoga techniques and principles, including breath, hand postures, meditation, body postures, shakras, prana, self-manifested Yoga, etc.  I would appreciate general description of the titles. dp

Response:

Could anyone recommend books that would cover a broad range of Yoga techniques and principles, including breath, hand postures, meditation, body postures, shakras, prana, self-manifested Yoga, etc.  I would appreciate general description of the titles.

Try Light on Yoga by BKS Iyengar. Description: The Bible of Modern Yoga with philosophy and practice by the world’s foremost teacher. Descriptions and illustrations (photographs) of all postures and breathing techniques. Mr.Iyengar offers instruction, hints and cautions, philosophy of yoga, and techniques of pranayama and asana. He suggests asana courses and curative asanas for various diseases. Shannon Brophy  For information on Yoga, Massage and Bodywork, and Natural Healing                  or to browse Holistic Products to order       visit the Roots & Wings Website at http://www.yoga.com

Response:

Yoga International has an article about Georg Feurstien and the Yoga Research Center this month. Georg has over 30 books of yoga published. I hope this will be of some help to you. peace, sandra

Response:

There is a very good book about tibetan Yoga – Kum Nye – that I can recomend! "Kum Nye Relaxation" written by Tarthang Tulku. Very good book – very good Yoga. I like that style … Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to learn more about Yoga in depth, as much as possible without a guru.   I have done extensive studies on Qigong (Chinese Yoga) and would like to complement my _theoretical_ knowledge with Yoga and Tibetan Yoga. Could anyone recommend books that would cover a broad range of Yoga techniques and principles, including breath, hand postures, meditation, body postures, shakras, prana, self-manifested Yoga, etc.  I would appreciate general description of the titles. dp

Response:

Go to www.yoga.freeuk.com and look at the book list of the Oregon center, you can even email them and ask them, Bharat Naik is the name of the guy. In general the books of Swami Satyananda are truly incredible, one of them is called "Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha" I think, and its the "Bible" of his style of yoga. Good luck I would like to learn more about Yoga in depth, as much as possible without a guru.   I have done extensive studies on Qigong (Chinese Yoga) and would like to complement my _theoretical_ knowledge with Yoga and Tibetan Yoga. Could anyone recommend books that would cover a broad range of Yoga techniques and principles, including breath, hand postures, meditation, body postures, shakras, prana, self-manifested Yoga, etc.  I would appreciate general description of the titles. dp

Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Greetings, I did what you are postulating.That is i went out and bought anything and everything on the subject and anything related to the subject. I became a collector over the years.Yard sales bookstores were avenues i walked down eagerly  to see what i could find. I found that titles authors before the 1920,s and around the 1960’s were very good.The turn of the century 1900.s were super.The 1960’s were super (photo and improved typesetting).But thats if you understand there are three basic kinds of yoga books i seem to see.These are private limited printings small editions domestic and foreign.Mass market editions for the general public popular trend setters.The final group seems to be ashram or monasterial free publications at low cost or free semi religious works.The 1800’s and the 1700’s are filled with secrets of many kinds and extremely hard to find as being held overseas almost entirely in small private collections ( new American Free Press).The works of today are almost always     small limited general introductions paperback and composed of popular commen theory based on market appeal. Good luck again i suggest buy or collect one of anything.Concluding in the bibliography section in the rear of a more recent work are titles that the work came from or was composed somewhat from. In some cases obtain those if you enjoy the work.G-Night

Bye For Now,May Your Heart Always Meet Your Head”,

“Click on Red Bar to Homepage”*** My Time***

Response:

I would like to learn more about Yoga in depth, as much as possible without a guru.   I have done extensive studies on Qigong (Chinese Yoga) and would like to complement my _theoretical_ knowledge with Yoga and Tibetan Yoga. Could anyone recommend books that would cover a broad range of Yoga techniques and principles, including breath, hand postures, meditation, body postures, shakras, prana, self-manifested Yoga, etc.  I would appreciate general description of the titles. dp

Response:

“

Question:

Micke,         When I get injured, there’s usually a message in it somewhere. Slow down, pay more attention, something I either address or repeat through further injury. To continue to work your arms while the shoulder heals will be challenging because you will need to maintain perfect shoulder alignment as you use the arm. If you can find a viniyoga teacher they will show you how to do this. A PT who practices yoga could be helpful too.         Try crow pose before attempting peacock, it’s more about balance than strength. You don’t tell much about yourself, but I suggest a wall push out as an alternative while your shoulder heals, It requires less rotation than cobra.         Iyengar yogis sometimes do many sun salutations, somtimes to honor B.K.S. Iyengar. Nothing is anti-yoga in itself. It’s not my style though 6-12 is plenty for me. .After that I find myself faking the chataranga dandasana.         peace,sandra

Response:

NARNIAEVE schrieb in Nachricht The thing about Yoga and strength is, well, you realize you have none.  I thought I did through lifting weights and running my butt of everyday, but one class of Yoga shattered that lie.

Funny, I made the opposite experience: I allways thought I have no "strength" (I’m physicly heavily handicaped since my birth – not able to do sport etc…) but then I did a Yogaclass… OK, I didn’t felt very strong DURING the class, but afterwards I got a burst of Energy and in fact I was able to do all exercises! (more or less perfect That’s 10 years ago and now I do teach this Yoga for at least 6 years allready. So, my experience usually was and still is through Yoga: if I connect to the infinite force within me I can do nearly anything. But the connection has to be there… Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh, Teacher of Kundalini Yoga [3HO] Visit the 3HO homepage:  http://yoga.home.pages.de/

Response:

Sun salutations are a great way to tone and actually sweat while doing Yoga. Though I only do about a set of 5 or 6 during my workout, I still get stronger each day . . . proof being how comfortable I am with certain positions, etc.   You might want to try getting a Yoga video also…it helps to actually see people doing the positions so you know how to exactly pose yourself.  I always stop whatever I’m doing if I shake too much or have trouble breathing.  The thing about Yoga and strength is, well, you realize you have none.  I thought I did through lifting weights and running my butt of everyday, but one class of Yoga shattered that lie. Okay, I’m rambling, time to shut up. Hope that helped a bit )

Response:

Does anyone have any ideas on a good yoga arm workout? I’ve recently been doing modified (very) push ups, but hurt my shoulder. I wanted to find a replacement as I enjoy the strength gotten by my previous workout. I also am looking for abdominal strengthening exercise suggestions. I looked thru my yoga books and found these exercises as seemingly reasonable substitutions: hip balance for abdominals; for arms: cobra, inclined plane, sun salutation, peacock pose. I can’t even attempt the peacock pose, to give you some idea of my fitness level, since I find myself unable to "rest" my body on the backs of my arms. I can only do a limited inclined plane but worry that I will injure my shoulder again with my arms twisted backwards. The cobra is no problem, I just worry about the repetition necessary to equal my previous workout. If you repeat an posture (asana?) many times, I’ve heard the sun salutation is repeated by some 12-100 X, isn’t that anti-yoga? Are there any sun salutation mongers out there? What are your experiences? micke

Response:

Question:

FYI, it is Gary Kraftsow.  He has a website at www.viniyoga.com  He has spurred me to pursue anatomy studies.  I use the AOM books referred to below and the subsequent one, AOM – exercises which is a little more practical. Both of these are recommended by my yoga anatomy teacher, an orthopedic surgeon.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Paul, I know of two people working on books on this subject. Gary( Kraftso), I’m mis-spelling his last name here. Also a woman Joyce? You could get more For now many people find the Anatomy of Movement by Blandine Calais-Germain to be helpful. peace, sandra

Response:

Paul,         I know of two people working on books on this subject. Gary( Kraftso), I’m mis-spelling his last name here. Also a woman Joyce? You could get more         For now many people find the Anatomy of Movement by Blandine Calais-Germain to be helpful.         peace, sandra

Response:

Hello, I’m looking for a reference book on yoga and anatomy. Specifically, I want information on how asana helps develop muscles (and how asana differs from weightlifting and calisthenics in this regard), and how yoga affects the endocrince system. I’m also interested in the physiology of pranayama practice. I don’t know if such a book exists (though I vaguely remember reading that someone, somewhere, was due to publish such a book in 1998), but any references that touch on any of these issues would be very welcome. thanks, Paul

B. K. S. Iyengar has written about these things.

Response:

Hello, I’m looking for a reference book on yoga and anatomy. Specifically, I want information on how asana helps develop muscles (and how asana differs from weightlifting and calisthenics in this regard), and how yoga affects the endocrince system. I’m also interested in the physiology of pranayama practice. I don’t know if such a book exists (though I vaguely remember reading that someone, somewhere, was due to publish such a book in 1998), but any references that touch on any of these issues would be very welcome. thanks, Paul

Response:

Question:

mromb You mentioned that you were <<not a beginer so I may be repeating something you are already familiar with (so much for e-comm).  But, laying on the left side of the body will open up the right nostral; as will using a bandu-stick. Or, any device that can apply gentle pressure into the armpit.  Doing so will activate the breathing passage on the same side (eg: left armpit, left nostral).

That’s something I didn’t know.  Thanks for the information.

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Pranayama for common ailments is rather common for those who have been taught the benefits of such.  However, it is well advised to be taught by someone who knows these breaths already. A classic example is – one of my yoga students attended an Elder Hostel week-long yoga vacation.  Though she has been studying yoga for 4 years, she was ‘forced’ to perform all asans from a chair. Their was no consideration given to the more advanced student, it was assumed that all students were ‘old’ and ‘infirmed’.  Secondly, they were told to practice ‘alternate nasel breathing’ but not shown how.  They were given a piece of paper that outlined this objective.   Pranayama is a vital tool in the aid of many ills – as well as ‘wells’. However, any pranayama should be approached with a properly trained instuctor who also is well familiar with your current condition (if any).

Response:

jkepner recommended a 1.4.2 ration for breath.   Rose recommended a 1.3.2 ration. It is of note that the ration I recommend is differnt.  I would be most interested in the different schools we have represented here.  (Which is not to say any is less valid – I find this very fascinating indeed.) I was trained via Sivananda.  I was taught:  inhale for count; retain for half; exhale for double inhale. So (as an example): inhale 4 retain 2 exhale 8 This makes ’sense’ to me b/c i’ve been doing it for 30 years.  I would like to hear others ideas on breath.  

Response:

Actually, I recommended against 1:4:2:1, but mostly when long counts are used, as Rose noted.   I was trained in the Ayur-yoga/viniyoga tradition, where different ratios are used for different purposes for different people.  One of the general things I was warned against, however, was excessive holding after inhale, hence my caution.   Actually, I had heard that the Sivenanda school did often recommend the 1:4:2:1, w/ long counts.  Perhaps I was misinformed on that.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – It is of note that the ration I recommend is differnt.  I would be most interested in the different schools we have represented here.  (Which is not to say any is less valid – I find this very fascinating indeed.)

Response:

From another perspective, I would say this 1,4, 2 ratio is not for a beginning in pranayama.  Too much holding after inhalation can be harmful. This is a classic ratio and classically a potential problem.  

I should maybe have added that I’m not a beginner and found no difficulty with this breath ratio.  However, I would agree that anyone who finds this ratio difficult should try something less demanding, and that’s what I have  said to anyone who asked me.  I find myself that if either nostril is in any way congested, it simply isn’t possible to inhale enough air to make breth retention for the required count possible.

Response:

mromberg wrote << I find myself that if either nostril is in any way congested, it simply isn’t possible to inhale enough air to make breth retention for the required count possible. You mentioned that you were <<not a beginer so I may be repeating something you are already familiar with (so much for e-comm).  But, laying on the left side of the body will open up the right nostral; as will using a bandu-stick. Or, any device that can apply gentle pressure into the armpit.  Doing so will activate the breathing passage on the same side (eg: left armpit, left nostral).

Response:

This Information Is Not Meant To Replace A Visit To A Physician.  Always See Your Doctor If Condition Persists. Half Wheel (DO NOT practice if pregnant). – Laying on your back, bend your knees, resting the feet flat on the floor. – Loosely cup your hands under your neck, wrists & knuckles touching lightly. – Inhale & slowly raise hips off floor, allowing body weight to roll to shoulders. – Breathe deep with the belly.  Try to hold to asan for 10 breaths. – Exhale & slow roll back towards feet.   Rapid Abdominal Breathing (DO NOT do during menstruation, or if you have hypertension or epilepsy). – Sit comfortably in a straight-back position. – Exhale all the air from your lungs with force. – Let the inhale come naturally, passively. – Let the abdomin move in & out with the breaths, do not squeeze or tighten. – Try to start with 3 rounds of 10 breathes.

Response:

This Information Is Not Meant To Replace A Visit To A Physician.  Always See Your Doctor If Condition Persists.

CUT I have just (I think) cured a vicious sinus infection by practising alternate nostril breathing – inhale for a count of 6, hold breath for 24, exhale for 12.  I found the suggestion in a book on meditation, in which the author said he had found this technique was good forr aborting a common cold and for clearing the sinuses.  I did 6 rounds before going to bed onTuesday; the following morning my sinuses streamed yucky yellow; then by mid-day I was feeling better than I had done for days!  I have continued the practice at intervals since then. Three days later (Friday) I am feeling better than I have done for the pask 10 days.  I was a bit sceptical but prepared to give it a go – and it did seem to work. Try it! —

Response:

From another perspective, I would say this 1,4, 2 ratio is not for a beginning in pranayama.  Too much holding after inhalation can be harmful. This is a classic ratio and classically a potential problem.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have just (I think) cured a vicious sinus infection by practising alternate nostril breathing – inhale for a count of 6, hold breath for 24, exhale for 12.  I found the suggestion in a book on meditation, in which the author said he had found this technique was good forr aborting a common cold and for clearing the sinuses. —

Response:

93/Pranams, – From another perspective, I would say this 1,4, 2 ratio is not for a – beginning in pranayama.  Too much holding after inhalation can be harmful. – This is a classic ratio and classically a potential problem.   For beginners in alt-nos prana breath, I’ve always recommended a 1:3:2 ratio, & with shorter ‘counts’…ie, inhale 4, retain 12, exhale 8. And don’t forget yer _khumbakh_!  :  But I don’t agree about the "too much holding after inhalation can be harmful," unless you mean truly extreme timeframes, & especially if the individual practicing is new to the practices. BTW, I just escaped the worst of the nasty flu going ’round in a house full of sick people, using asana–the ‘Lion’ has been recommended for staving off colds too!–, pranayama, mudra, japa, and zinc lozenges.  : 93/Namaskarams, Rose

Response:

john kepner wrote <<Actually, I had heard that the Sivenanda school did often recommend the 1:4:2:1, w/ long counts.  Perhaps I was misinformed on that. Thats news to me as well.  As I said, that was/is my school for the last 30 yrs. john then added <<I was trained in the Ayur-yoga/viniyoga tradition, where different ratios are used for different purposes for different people. I recall hearing about viniyoga (vaguely), but not the ayur-yoga tech.  Makes sense what you mention.  Any where I can tap into more info to check it out?

Response:

Question:

        In the logical, rational, mind there is judgement. There is concern with the concept of time, & of best. For me yoga is about letting go of all the thinking, & judging. In this way experience is, sensation is. Even samadhi is a word, letting go of words offers an opportunity to be.         We start with words, because they are one of our tools, in the same way, one may choose to a particular asana, or holding time. We are each unique beings, realizing that, accepting ourselves as a one time event in the universe, in this moment seems enough to me. namaste’ sandra

Response:

Has anyone held a posture for say, 2-5 minutes.   Would you like to share what went on for you. Were there emotional, physical, mental or spiritual releases of some kind. I recently have experienced some very profound emotional releases around my  heart chakra from holding some postures like bridge and cobra. I’d love to hear from you. Paula

Response:

the bridge and cobra are heart opening postures so I am not at all suprised you  had openings in these areas – the longer you hold a posture the deeper you  allow yourself go into emotional blocks – if you ever have a chance to do a  Phenoix Rising Yoga Therapy Session – do it – you may find yourself going even  deeper into those emotionals releases

Response:

Has anyone held a posture for say, 2-5 minutes.   Would you like to share what went on for you. Were there emotional, physical, mental or spiritual releases of some kind. I recently have experienced some very profound emotional releases around my  heart chakra from holding some postures like bridge and cobra. I’d love to hear from you. Paula Paula,

Holding a posture can be a very cathartic experience, and is the basis for yoga therapy.  The Bridge and the cobra are both chest openers for the heart chakra, and would provide your body with the opportunity to release any tensions or feelings being held there.  When I had my first yoga therapy session I was amazed at the release of emotions and sounds that this experiece provided.  Happy holding! It’s always nice to have a facilitator with you to help with the integration of this kind of experience.  Kripalu offers trainings in yoga therapy and you may want to find therapists in your area to provide guidance in  your experiences. Jai, Linda

Response:

I’d like to knoq what those of use who are relatively inflexible are meant to be doing. I’ve been doing Yoga on & off for several months & find it uncomfortable remaining in many positions for any ( 20 seconds) amount of time. Part of it is my daily posture (sitting at a desk), part is my current body structure, and part is also that I’ve not done Yoga for very long. I presume that if my flexibility level is very low, I should flex as much as I can so as to be able to hold for the same amount of time. Anyone else find this? Stu.

Response:

Doing the poses dynamically is a good approach for those who are especially stiff.  That is, moving into and out of the poses w/ much attention paid to breathing.  There is much more to this, and, of course different approaches.  Viniyoga teachers especially teach this approach, but good yoga teachers in other traditions can help you as well to adapt an approach to the asanas that will meet you where you are now.   – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’d like to knoq what those of use who are relatively inflexible are meant to be doing. I’ve been doing Yoga on & off for several months & find it uncomfortable remaining in many positions for any ( 20 seconds) amount of time. Part of it is my daily posture (sitting at a desk), part is my current body structure, and part is also that I’ve not done Yoga for very long.

Response:

Hi Paula, I practice Hatha Yoga trained in the Iyengar style. Your question really depends on what kind of practice or sequence or pose you are doing. For instance Headstand and shoulder stand students build up to at least ten minutes each. Standing poses 5-7 minutes is along time. I hold handstands for two minutes which feels like plenty. Holding a pose longer just to hold it longer can be dangerous or unwise. It is important to pay attention to the breath, does the pose free the breath, or cause you to restrict or shorten your breathing? Obviously twists and backbends will shorten the breath, but should not cause it to be agitated. So hold a pose as long as the breath can move freely. Look to the breath to bring endurance and stillness to the pose. Holding a pose in incorrect alignment or without the proer musuclar action can lead to disturbances of the body’s energy. Disruption of the Prana Vayu and the Apana Vayu, or regions of primary pranic movement in the torso. Holding poses long with incoreect alignment and musuclar action can disturb the breath and in turn do harm to your hormonal system of nervous system, even though the short term feeling may be exhilarating. The body goes through physiological changes approximately every threeminutes, so to let poses move from the musculko skeletal action to a deeper organic or pranic (energetic) level, holding a pose longer is important. A student should wait until the body is trained to hold the poses and not push it. A restorative practice, geared toward stimulating immune activity and quieting the nervous system would include supported pose held for along time. holding a supported Halasana, or plow position for twenty minutes is a wonderfully transformative experience. Partcicularly if the breathing and concentration (dharana) bring you to a state where you do not feel time passing. This is when the meditation (dhyana) occurs.  I have been taught that you cannot choose to meditate, but rather create a state or action where you are receptive to receive the state should it occur. The more practice the more the state occurs. This state can be acessed n all poses, some more readily than others. A fascinating question and a fascinating journey. Take Care I’d like to hear more of your thoughts and experiences. Karl www.YogaNexus.com

Response:

To force yourself to hold a pose longer than your body is ready is a recipe for trouble.  And often the effects do not show till a day or two later, as discussed below.   Also, different poses, or the same pose done differently need to be attempted differently.  For example, the Iyengar style has developed approaches that usually allow someone to push at limits safely.  Other styles, such as viniyoga, that emphasise developing the back, require a gradual approach over time to safely expand ones limits.   Be leary of general rules, try and get the help of a teacher, and listen to your body, staying under your limits.   J : – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – TO hold a posture for a long time,  YOU JUST HALF TO FORCE YOUR SELF & have a STRONG WILL POWER.  BUT don’t be to ambitious.  start out slow 2 to 5 min every day untill you can do 10 minutes.  That is the secret. A few weeks ago, after a long hiatus, I started doing Yoga again.  The Cobra position felt so good that I held it a few minutes.  From then until a few days ago I had terrible lower back pain.

Response:

pontificated: Ken,    How do you get into the cobra pose?   Are you starting with a pulling of the sacrum forward, and keeping your butt and upper leg muscles contracted?   What about a recovery posture immediately afterwards just as long (baby or rabbit – sorry I don’t know the actual indian names).

I think I lifted myself up too far below the neck.  I followed it with the baby pose.

Response:

I want to remind myself & others of the unique qualities of each yoga practice, of each asana, in every moment. Reciepes are great if we are baking a cake. For yoga to be, it just is. I am enjoying the thread, I don’t mean this as a criticism, just a comment.

Response:

I have showed your words to several students and teachers and all agree it is sad what you have been taught. Clearly many people are passing on knowledge incorrectly or with their own ego in the way. Fortunately I have not met any people who approach yoga the way you do. Sure Yoga takes will, but forcing yourself in a pose to reach samadhi is sad and a misunderstanding. best of luck in finding a good teacher. I only pray no to many people have been injured as you have by these distorted teachings. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Let me ask you personally ,  Have you ever reached SAMADHI  by doing ASANAS? What about arising KUNDALINI in a pose?  As far as I know from my Guru and from my experiences,  the best HATHA YOGIS & SAHDUS  reach Samadhi in poses in about 1 hour to two depending on the pose & concentration.  In SIRSHASANA if held correctly with the right concentration will put you in SAMADHI in 1 hour.   Please do your research before calling me confused. SINCERELY S DOBLES

Response:

Ken,         How do you get into the cobra pose?   Are you starting with a pulling of the sacrum forward, and keeping your butt and upper leg muscles contracted?   What about a recovery posture immediately afterwards just as long (baby or rabbit – sorry I don’t know the actual indian names).         I must admit I’ve felt lower back pain from doing cobra pose though – but no pain if I’ve warmed up with some forward and backward bends first.         …Rodney

: TO hold a posture for a long time,  YOU JUST HALF TO FORCE YOUR SELF & have a : STRONG WILL POWER.  BUT don’t be to ambitious.  start out slow 2 to 5 min every : day untill you can do 10 minutes.  That is the secret. : A few weeks ago, after a long hiatus, I started doing Yoga again.  The : Cobra position felt so good that I held it a few minutes.  From then : until a few days ago I had terrible lower back pain.

Response:

TO hold a posture for a long time,  YOU JUST HALF TO FORCE YOUR SELF & have a STRONG WILL POWER.  BUT don’t be to ambitious.  start out slow 2 to 5 min every day untill you can do 10 minutes.  That is the secret.

A few weeks ago, after a long hiatus, I started doing Yoga again.  The Cobra position felt so good that I held it a few minutes.  From then until a few days ago I had terrible lower back pain.

Response:

Let me ask you personally ,  Have you ever reached SAMADHI  by doing ASANAS?   What about arising KUNDALINI in a pose?  As far as I know from my Guru and from my experiences,  the best HATHA YOGIS & SAHDUS  reach Samadhi in poses in about 1 hour to two depending on the pose & concentration.  In SIRSHASANA if held correctly with the right concentration will put you in SAMADHI in 1 hour.   Please do your research before calling me confused.   SINCERELY S DOBLES

Response:

Hi Paula, I practice Hatha Yoga trained in the Iyengar style. Your question really depends on what kind of practice or sequence or pose you are doing. For instance Headstand and shoulder stand students build up to at least ten minutes each. Standing poses 5-7 minutes is along time. I hold handstands for two minutes which feels like plenty. Holding a pose longer just to hold it longer can be dangerous or unwise. It is important to pay attention to the breath, does the pose free the breath, or cause you to restrict or shorten your breathing? Obviously twists and backbends will shorten the breath, but should not cause it to be agitated. So hold a pose as long as the breath can move freely. Look to the breath to bring endurance and stillness to the pose. Holding a pose in incorrect alignment or without the proer musuclar action can lead to disturbances of the body’s energy. Disruption of the Prana Vayu and the Apana Vayu, or regions of primary pranic movement in the torso. Holding poses long with incoreect alignment and musuclar action can disturb the breath and in turn do harm to your hormonal system of nervous system, even though the short term feeling may be exhilarating. The body goes through physiological changes approximately every threeminutes, so to let poses move from the musculko skeletal action to a deeper organic or pranic (energetic) level, holding a pose longer is important. A student should wait until the body is trained to hold the poses and not push it. A restorative practice, geared toward stimulating immune activity and quieting the nervous system would include supported pose held for along time. holding a supported Halasana, or plow position for twenty minutes is a wonderfully transformative experience. Partcicularly if the breathing and concentration (dharana) bring you to a state where you do not feel time passing. This is when the meditation (dhyana) occurs.  I have been taught that you cannot choose to meditate, but rather create a state or action where you are receptive to receive the state should it occur. The more practice the more the state occurs. This state can be acessed n all poses, some more readily than others. A fascinating question and a fascinating journey. Take Care I’d like to hear more of your thoughts and experiences. Karl http://www.YogaNexus.com

Response:

Stu, Beginnings are always insightful. Watch yourself like an observer. See yourself as flexible – as flexible as you are, right now, in this moment.  And in time, as you relax, breath through it, receive proper guidance and go  within yourself to find the patience to persist, you will grow. Namaste, Paula

Response:

Hello My name  Is Santiago Dobles. I’m responding your question. ( Has anyone held a posture for say, 2-5 minutes. Would you like to share what went on for you. Were there emotional, physical, mental or spiritual releases of some kind. I recently have experienced some very profound emotional releases around my  heart chakra from holding some postures like bridge and cobra) I have  held most of the Asanas that I know for over 10 minutes.  Usually I  only hold them for 5 to 10 minutes.   The great  thing about asanas is that  you can chooses the ones you need most according to what mood & feeling you  want to get.  For instance BHUJANGA ASANA ( or Cobra pose helps you open  ANAHATA CHACKRA.    I have noticed that most of the esoteric effects don’t  appear untill 5 minutes after you have held the pose.  All the poses will help  you to reach SAMADHI.  Any pose held for over 3 hours and held with the  correct concentration will put you in SAMADHI.   The key is to be patient.  I  have been at this for almost two years & a half  and usually my will power  will only let me hold a pose  for 20 to 30 minutes.  I know I could do more  maybe even an hour but My ego is still my handicaping me.  Unfortunately    MAYA tends to make me Lazy.  But I can testify that  just 5 minutes of one  pose  will help you and bring great health to your physical, mental &  spiritual  TEMPLE.   MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL Sincerely Santiago Dobles

Response:

you to reach SAMADHI.  Any pose held for over 3 hours and held with the

WOW….and I was happy with 2-3 mins….although I must be honest…I never  felt the effects you are describing….how long does it take to practice…a  posture….even to 10 mins…

Response:

I have never in over 12 years of yoga read or heard from the most senior teachers anything as disconnected and confused as these statements by Dobles. I hope you dfind a good teacher Santiago. Best wishes in your quest for the4 30 minute Samadhi. —— – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello My name  Is Santiago Dobles. I’m responding your question. ( Has anyone held a posture for say, 2-5 minutes. Would you like to share what went on for you. Were there emotional, physical, mental or spiritual releases of some kind. I recently have experienced some very profound emotional releases around my  heart chakra from holding some postures like bridge and cobra) I have  held most of the Asanas that I know for over 10 minutes.  Usually I  only hold them for 5 to 10 minutes.   The great  thing about asanas is that  you can chooses the ones you need most according to what mood & feeling you  want to get.  For instance BHUJANGA ASANA ( or Cobra pose helps you open  ANAHATA CHACKRA.    I have noticed that most of the esoteric effects don’t  appear untill 5 minutes after you have held the pose.  All the poses will help  you to reach SAMADHI.  Any pose held for over 3 hours and held with the  correct concentration will put you in SAMADHI.   The key is to be patient.  I  have been at this for almost two years & a half  and usually my will power  will only let me hold a pose  for 20 to 30 minutes.  I know I could do more  maybe even an hour but My ego is still my handicaping me.  Unfortunately  MAYA tends to make me Lazy.  But I can testify that  just 5 minutes of one  pose  will help you and bring great health to your physical, mental &  spiritual  TEMPLE. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL Sincerely Santiago Dobles

Response:

I experienced a Phoenix Rising Session recently and it was profound. Symbols. Emotional release. Surrender.  Peace.  Bliss.  The facilitator up at  Kripalu was wonderful – compassionate, bold, warm, skilled. The openings that have occured during my last 10 days in training at Kripalu  have taught me so much about how I haven’t been slowing down, taking the time  to nurture ‘ me’, resting, sleeping.  It’s been 4 weeks of pneumonia and I’ve  had the time to really look at that – to see just what led up to the physical  manifestation of this illness.   The lesson has been before me many times  before but I choose to avoid looking at it. This time, it came back to me a thousand fold, and there was no way not to see  it – I was knocked out – spiritually, that is! So, thanks for your response.  I appreciate it.  Namaste, Paula

Response:

Paula, You’re in a very precious spiritual phase.  Cherish it.  Thank you for sharing it with us.  Shanti. Om Tat Sat.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I experienced a Phoenix Rising Session recently and it was profound. Symbols. Emotional release. Surrender.  Peace.  Bliss.  The facilitator up at Kripalu was wonderful – compassionate, bold, warm, skilled. The openings that have occured during my last 10 days in training at Kripalu have taught me so much about how I haven’t been slowing down, taking the time to nurture ‘ me’, resting, sleeping.  It’s been 4 weeks of pneumonia and I’ve had the time to really look at that – to see just what led up to the physical manifestation of this illness.   The lesson has been before me many times before but I choose to avoid looking at it. This time, it came back to me a thousand fold, and there was no way not to see it – I was knocked out – spiritually, that is! So, thanks for your response.  I appreciate it.  Namaste, Paula

Response: