Question:

I hear people talking Ashtanga Yoga, Birkram Yoga, etc. and I am so confused. I know that yoga has many different styles but it would be nice if I can identity some of the popular ones. Does anyone have a site (URL) that summarizes the different styles?

At the bottom of this page http://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/store/faq.htm there is a brief summary of different yoga styles here. Yoga.com is the original yoga source on the web at http://www.yoga.com . See the yoga message board, free articles, and more. Shannon B.

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I hear people talking Ashtanga Yoga, Birkram Yoga, etc. and I am so confused. I know that yoga has many different styles but it would be nice if I can identity some of the popular ones. Does anyone have a site (URL) that summarizes the different styles? Thanks Akira

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I hear people talking Ashtanga Yoga, Birkram Yoga, etc. and I am so confused. I know that yoga has many different styles but it would be nice if I can identity some of the popular ones. Does anyone have a site (URL) that summarizes the different styles? Thanks Akira

<http://www.evonline.net/ <http://mitglied.lycos.de/altyoga/ — ~Stu

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Question:

Wow, a yoga kit!  I’m so shocked I don’t have one!  I feel naked!

Check out http://www.huggermugger.com/ and http://www.yogazone.com Compare prices and features! Raja

PS: To all the soc.culture.indian posters, I’ve decided to crosspost a few select posts which highlight everything which is wrong with yoga practice in the west!

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wanted – yoga mat supplier manufacturer for online uk shopping site. — — peace be the journey — – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – im looking to buy a yoga mat over the internet, and was wondering if anyone could recommend an online store. Before you buy.

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http://www.eyeyoga.co.uk/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – wanted – yoga mat supplier manufacturer for online uk shopping site. — — peace be the journey —

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im looking to buy a yoga mat over the internet, and was wondering if anyone could recommend an online store. Before you buy.

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Check out http://www.huggermugger.com/ and http://www.yogazone.com Compare prices and features! Raja

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Or try a rug seller. At our school we use and sell a carpet backing rather than regular mats. It seems to work better and lasts longer. Elladan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – , Can anyone tell me a company that makes foam that could be used for yoga mats. I’m looking for a dense foam. I think about 1/4 to 3/8" thick would be right. Thanks, Henry Have you tried a local upholstery shop? Or a furniture manufacturer in a city near you? –Robert

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Can anyone tell me a company that makes foam that could be used for yoga mats. I’m looking for a dense foam. I think about 1/4 to 3/8" thick would be right. Thanks, Henry

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, Can anyone tell me a company that makes foam that could be used for yoga mats. I’m looking for a dense foam. I think about 1/4 to 3/8" thick would be right. Thanks, Henry

Have you tried a local upholstery shop? Or a furniture manufacturer in a city near you? –Robert

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OK–so buy 2 or three of the same skinny mat and use duct tape on the back side to connect them together.  Ta Da! One big mat! (I might actually do this!) –Namaste’ LMM – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been looking into all of the posts, so thank you to all of you who have posted, but I still haven’t really found what I am looking for. I want a BIG mat, something 5′x6′ or thereabouts.

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I have an egg crate that you can buy anywhere.   It is used on mattresses to make a bed more comfortable. I cut it the width I wanted and the length was  just find. I do not slip and it is comfortable. Diane

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Try www.samadicushions.com… I have one and it works will for me i am 5".11 its about 6×4.

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I am new to yoga and I live in a house with hardwood floors, so I am looking for a yoga mat. I have seen the narrow ones ont he yoga web sites, but I am looking moe for something the size of which I see in Total Yoga. Can anyone reccommend a good mat material, that is padded and theat I can pick up and move when I don’t want it out in the living room. Thanks, -p

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You will want to get a sticky mat which will prevent you from sliding during asanas.  Regular exercise mats just don’t cut it because of the texture of the material they are made of (way too slippery to practice yoga).  Usually the sticky mats come in one width, but most places can give you an extra long mat if that is what you need (they come on one big roll and they just cut them to the desired length).  They are very light and can easily be rolled up to be stored or taken to your yoga class (since our yoga center charges $1 extra if you don’t have a mat!!). try these sites www.huggermugger.com www.eightlimbs.com www.yogaprops.com –Charles – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am new to yoga and I live in a house with hardwood floors, so I am looking for a yoga mat. I have seen the narrow ones ont he yoga web sites, but I am looking moe for something the size of which I see in Total Yoga. Can anyone reccommend a good mat material, that is padded and theat I can pick up and move when I don’t want it out in the living room. Thanks, -p

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Hi, Another good website you might want to look at for yoga mats would be www.barefootyoga.com They sell a variety of mats for different needs. Including the sticky mats. I am new to yoga and I live in a house with hardwood floors, so I am looking for a yoga mat. I have seen the narrow ones ont he yoga web sites, but I am looking moe for something the size of which I see in Total Yoga. Can anyone reccommend a good mat material, that is padded and theat I can pick up and move when I don’t want it out in the living room. Thanks, -p

Before you buy.

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You will want to get a sticky mat which will prevent you from sliding during asanas.  Regular exercise mats just don’t cut it because of the texture of the material they are made of (way too slippery to practice yoga).

Lots of poses (standing especially) can be done on a hardwood floor with no mat, if the floor is not too slippery. Linoleum can work too. Carpet tends to be slippery for standing poses, but would work for seated poses. A blanket is a good surface for seated poses too. A mat would be great for elbow balance, along with a block to put between the hands. Books can be used in many postures in place of blocks. You can use belts without having a ‘yoga belt’ especially for the purpose. try these sites

http://www.yoga.com is a premier yoga store on the web having been around for a long time in comparison to others You will find yoga blocks, belts, mats, videos, and more. Shannon .

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I have been looking into all of the posts, so thank you to all of you who have posted, but I still haven’t really found what I am looking for. I want a BIG mat, something 5′x6′ or thereabouts. Why? I find it VERY uncomfortable to do yoga on the hardwood floor. (NOTE: I am VERY MUCH a beginner) I have the AM/PM yoga tapes and Total Yoga (p.s. yeah,  I know go take a class). But I have hard time relaxing when it’s uncomfortable. Specifically, it hurts my ankles when I sit cross legged on a hardwood floor and it hurts my lower back when I do any back rolls or any tucked knee positions. When I use a blanket, it slips around too much and doesn’t offer enough traction for the standing positions. Oh what a dilemma. I am very surprised no one has some up with a product wider than 24 or 36 inches. It seems so natural to want something wider so you can move in a full circle on the mat. Well, I’ll give it a few more weeks, then I’ll break down and buy a skinny mat, and see how it goes. Thanks again for everyone’s help. -p

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You will want to get a sticky mat which will prevent you from sliding during asanas.  Regular exercise mats just don’t cut it because of the texture of the material they are made of (way too slippery to practice yoga). Lots of poses (standing especially) can be done on a hardwood floor with no mat, if the floor is not too slippery. Linoleum can work too. Carpet tends to be slippery for standing poses, but would work for seated poses. A blanket is a good surface for seated poses too. A mat would be great for elbow balance, along with a block to put between the hands. Books can be used in many postures in place of blocks. You can use belts without having a ‘yoga belt’ especially for the purpose. try these sites http://www.yoga.com is a premier yoga store on the web having been around for a long time in comparison to others You will find yoga blocks, belts, mats, videos, and more. Shannon .

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Question:

I have been practicing Hatha yoga for 28 years.  I have never sustained a yoga related injury. Awareness is Hatha’s shadow.  Be aware of your body, mind & spirit at all times.  Begin first by following the breath.  Later, listen to the hearts beating.  Soon you will be able to discern the individual movement of ligaments & tendons – versus non-descript muscle groups. Swami Visnu-devananda often said "No pain, no gain" (in the 50’s & 60’s, presumably before aerobics adopted this motto).  However, I lean more towards "holding the edge".  Reaching that point before pain & holding/maintaining the asana.   The foundation here is Awareness.  Each body is different, yet similar.  Find that which works best for your body.  But know this … Hatha is about achieving health & well-being. Not injury. Om Shanti … Yogini Lalasa Hamsa Yoga Fellowship

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When dealing with alignment problems, the approach that I use (and it worked very well on my headstand) is to soften and then extend. What I mean by this is is that we usually force too much. I look to get rid of that extra tension in order to lengthen the muscles, which in turn allows me to lengthen into the pose.

Could you please amplify? How exactly do you "soften and extend"? — Regards, Uri <Disclaimer

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Yes this makes sense. We tend to be more stiff when we wake up. Notice how suddenly it becomes an issue of tension.                                                 Michel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Exactly- & the time of day has a lot to do with it. If I try to do this too early in the morning, then I am risking pain. I try my inversions later in the day.     I understand. When dealing with alignment problems, the approach that I use (and it worked very well on my headstand) is to soften and then extend. What I mean by this is is that we usually force too much. I look to get rid of that extra tension in order to lengthen the muscles, which in turn allows me to lengthen into the pose. This over time helps to correct the alignment over a period of time. I used to compress my neck in headstand and used this approach. the problem is now gone. Good luck.                                                                 Michel I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time. But it’s okay. I get hurt when I fall in love sometimes, so?     This statement concerns me. I would not play games with the neck. If you often get pains in the neck, I think its more than just the "wrong time". I would get a teacher to look at you in the pose. You may have too much tension in the pose. Perhaps forcing when stiff. perhaps an alignment problem. In any case, Shoulderstand holds a great many benefits, but one must also be very cautious with it. Please don’t be so concerned. I only say this after having gone to many teachers. I do, indeed have alignment problems that I won’t allow to intefere with the benefits of shoulderstand (consequently one of my most hated asanas ;-} I just said it to explain that the devoted sometimes cannot avoid pain, & so shouldn’t fear encountering it. Have you ever stumbled to the bathroom in the middle of the night & stubbed your toe? How many of us carry a flashlight after that, or lie in bed all night with a full bladder?   I agree with you idea of  thinking of pain as your friend. Just don’t forget that it is also your teacher.                                                 Michel     I understand. When dealing with alignment problems, the approach that I use (and it worked very well on my headstand) is to soften and then extend. What I mean by this is is that we usually force too much. I look to get rid of that extra tension in order to lengthen the muscles, which in turn allows me to lengthen into the pose. This over time helps to correct the alignment over a period of time. I used to compress my neck in headstand and used this approach. the problem is now gone. Good luck.                                                                 Michel I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time. But it’s okay. I get hurt when I fall in love sometimes, so?     This statement concerns me. I would not play games with the neck. If you often get pains in the neck, I think its more than just the "wrong time". I would get a teacher to look at you in the pose. You may have too much tension in the pose. Perhaps forcing when stiff. perhaps an alignment problem. In any case, Shoulderstand holds a great many benefits, but one must also be very cautious with it. Please don’t be so concerned. I only say this after having gone to many teachers. I do, indeed have alignment problems that I won’t allow to intefere with the benefits of shoulderstand (consequently one of my most hated asanas ;-} I just said it to explain that the devoted sometimes cannot avoid pain, & so shouldn’t fear encountering it. Have you ever stumbled to the bathroom in the middle of the night & stubbed your toe? How many of us carry a flashlight after that, or lie in bed all night with a full bladder?   I agree with you idea of  thinking of pain as your friend. Just don’t forget that it is also your teacher.                                                 Michel

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Soften and extend: This is a very difficult concept to explain as we don’t do it much. When we move, exercise, hold a posture, stand, sit etc….  we tend to use a lot more muscle power than need. This creates tension, resistance to movement, compresses or joints etc…  Therefor in just about everything we do there is the potential to relax more without doing less. In fact when you do this, the muscles lengthen, there is more room in the joint, and therefor there is the potential to lengthen out in the pose.     To do this requires a lot of awareness, gentleness, time and patience; but it well worth it.     If you want to see this in action look at a Tai chi master doing his form (sequence of movements) it is so effortless. Young children also move and hold themselves without tension. They would have no problem extending with these qualities.     Hope this is clearer. Take care                                                             Michel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – When dealing with alignment problems, the approach that I use (and it worked very well on my headstand) is to soften and then extend. What I mean by this is is that we usually force too much. I look to get rid of that extra tension in order to lengthen the muscles, which in turn allows me to lengthen into the pose. Could you please amplify? How exactly do you "soften and extend"? — Regards, Uri <Disclaimer

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time. But it’s okay. I get hurt when I fall in love sometimes, so?     This statement concerns me. I would not play games with the neck. If you often get pains in the neck, I think its more than just the "wrong time". I would get a teacher to look at you in the pose. You may have too much tension in the pose. Perhaps forcing when stiff. perhaps an alignment problem. In any case, Shoulderstand holds a great many benefits, but one must also be very cautious with it. Please don’t be so concerned. I only say this after having gone to many teachers. I do, indeed have alignment problems that I won’t allow to intefere with the benefits of shoulderstand (consequently one of my most hated asanas ;-} I just said it to explain that the devoted sometimes cannot avoid pain, & so shouldn’t fear encountering it. Have you ever stumbled to the bathroom in the middle of the night & stubbed your toe? How many of us carry a flashlight after that, or lie in bed all night with a full bladder?   I agree with you idea of  thinking of pain as your friend. Just don’t forget that it is also your teacher.                                                 Michel

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I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time.

What helps in doing shoulderstand is to use 3 or 4 carefully folded stacked blankets under your shoulders, which should be right on the edge. Don’t turn your head to the side at any time in the pose. Start by extending your spine by having knees bent and down to the ground for a minute or more. Then extend legs one at a time. Extension and release of tension is important, as is placement of yourself on the blankets. Look at a mirror see how your alignment is-are you collapsed on either side? The tops of your shoulders should be squarely on the blanket, not the backs of them. Another help is to use a belt to keep your arms together at just the right distance which is the width of your shoulders. The blankets make a huge difference in the comfort of this pose especially if you hold it awhile. I hate to see people hurt their necks by not using them. Yoga props can be found at http://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/store/yogatools.htm and a book that explains this more in depth is Yoga: The Iyengar Way by the Mehtas. http://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/store/ybasana.html#Mehtas  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

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    I understand. When dealing with alignment problems, the approach that I use (and it worked very well on my headstand) is to soften and then extend. What I mean by this is is that we usually force too much. I look to get rid of that extra tension in order to lengthen the muscles, which in turn allows me to lengthen into the pose. This over time helps to correct the alignment over a period of time. I used to compress my neck in headstand and used this approach. the problem is now gone. Good luck.                                                                 Michel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time. But it’s okay. I get hurt when I fall in love sometimes, so?     This statement concerns me. I would not play games with the neck. If you often get pains in the neck, I think its more than just the "wrong time". I would get a teacher to look at you in the pose. You may have too much tension in the pose. Perhaps forcing when stiff. perhaps an alignment problem. In any case, Shoulderstand holds a great many benefits, but one must also be very cautious with it. Please don’t be so concerned. I only say this after having gone to many teachers. I do, indeed have alignment problems that I won’t allow to intefere with the benefits of shoulderstand (consequently one of my most hated asanas ;-} I just said it to explain that the devoted sometimes cannot avoid pain, & so shouldn’t fear encountering it. Have you ever stumbled to the bathroom in the middle of the night & stubbed your toe? How many of us carry a flashlight after that, or lie in bed all night with a full bladder?   I agree with you idea of  thinking of pain as your friend. Just don’t forget that it is also your teacher.                                                 Michel

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We all know the Rolling Stones lyric," you don’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes– you get what you need." I’ve been practicing 33 years with no injuries ever. Why? I’m not ambitious is all I can say. I learned early on to let go of judging, and while I’m far from perfect at it, I do manage to accept the practice I do with the body I have most of the time. Both the good and the bad news is that your practice needs to change. If you can get to a trained viniyoga teacher, or a physical therapist who is also a yoga teacher that will be the best thing in developing a practice that will be healing for you. If you try on your own some email exchange with me might be useful too. Basically what I suggest is move only to the level at the edge of discomfort. For at least a few weeks, go to that sensation and back off slowly. If you have been doing a lot of standing practice, then it’s time to try lying down, supporting the weight of the leg on the floor or wall as you move. I wish you peace and enjoyment in your practice, sandra

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Yoga injury is not a subject normally addressed in yoga circles but one I think needs some discussion. I’ve been practicing yoga now for about 15 years, and in that time have had many small injuries, these could have happened no matter what exercise I did, and in yoga they can happen due to over exertion (ambition), tiredness, lack of concentration. Mostly they heal of there own accord and practice can continue but occasionally with a bad injury the scars can last for many years. For myself, I tore either an adductor or gracilus (I’m not sure which), this weakened the muscle, which meant that with subsequent practice it tore again in the same place. Consequently that muscle has become shortened due the injury and my avoiding placing any strain on it. Does anyone have any similar experiences or useful suggestions on how to treat these types of muscle injuries.

   When you injure yourself, whether during yoga or otherwise, you must take precautions around that area. For instance, I injured my hip a month ago (not through yoga) and have to be careful when in lotus, uttahita parsvasahita, and ardha baddha padmottanasana (one-leg balance positions and those that put extra pressure on my hip). I still do those positions, I just make sure I am very aware of my hip while I do them and stop as soon as I feel *any pain*    I think one of the most important things is to keep using it. Like you said, your muscle has grown shorter and less flexible due to inactivity. You probably should start to work it again, but at a very slow pace.    This is from my own personal knowledge of yoga and the body and from what my teacher has told me…you might want to consult a doctor or a yoga teacher to be sure. Jenny — Everyone is conquered by the body. But the yogis conquer the body. Hence how can the fruit of karma, such as pleasure and pain, affect them?         ~~Yoga-Shikha-Upanishad

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I often get a pain in the neck when I practice shoulderstand at the wrong time. But it’s okay. I get hurt when I fall in love sometimes, so?

    This statement concerns me. I would not play games with the neck. If you often get pains in the neck, I think its more than just the "wrong time". I would get a teacher to look at you in the pose. You may have too much tension in the pose. Perhaps forcing when stiff. perhaps an alignment problem. In any case, Shoulderstand holds a great many benefits, but one must also be very cautious with it.     I agree with you idea of  thinking of pain as your friend. Just don’t forget that it is also your teacher.                                                 Michel

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    I don’t know what kind of yoga you do but perhaps a gentler focus might be in order. I tend to be rather intense when I do yoga. I know all this stuff about accepting where you are, do only as much as you are comfortable going etc… However, what has helped me the most, is to do a style of yoga that emphasize the opposite qualities. I found that in Vanda Scaravelli’s work. Its very gentle on the body and yet is very dynamic. I find it difficult to explain this way of doing yoga. Every time I try to explain it I feel I haven’t done it justice. What I want to emphasis is a concept that is very similar to the Taoist principle of "Wu way" (doing, not doing). Follow the natural movements of the body without tension nor using any more effort than is absolutely necessary (without compromising the posture. This is not sloppy yoga, nor is it gentle yoga. It is a yoga of using the ground, breath, and spine to produce effortless waves of movement in the body. The point that I’m trying to make is that relaxation heals. So to can it prevent injury. We generally think that relaxation is what we do at the end of the class or between postures. But it can be brought into even the most intense postures.     As for healing an injury. Use ice, rest, yoga (but choose your yoga well). Hope this helps. Michel – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yoga injury is not a subject normally addressed in yoga circles but one I think needs some discussion. I’ve been practicing yoga now for about 15 years, and in that time have had many small injuries, these could have happened no matter what exercise I did, and in yoga they can happen due to over exertion (ambition), tiredness, lack of concentration. Mostly they heal of there own accord and practice can continue but occasionally with a bad injury the scars can last for many years. For myself, I tore either an adductor or gracilus (I’m not sure which), this weakened the muscle, which meant that with subsequent practice it tore again in the same place. Consequently that muscle has become shortened due the injury and my avoiding placing any strain on it. Does anyone have any similar experiences or useful suggestions on how to treat these types of muscle injuries.

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Yoga injury is not a subject normally addressed in yoga circles but one I think needs some discussion. I’ve been practicing yoga now for about 15 years, and in that time have had many small injuries, these could have happened no matter what exercise I did, and in yoga they can happen due to over exertion (ambition), tiredness, lack of concentration. Mostly they heal of there own accord and practice can continue but occasionally with a bad injury the scars can last for many years. For myself, I tore either an adductor or gracilus (I’m not sure which), this weakened the muscle, which meant that with subsequent practice it tore again in the same place. Consequently that muscle has become shortened due the injury and my avoiding placing any strain on it. Does anyone have any similar experiences or useful suggestions on how to treat these types of muscle injuries.

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Question:

Yoga practice means doing what it takes to reach the goal of yoga.  That goal is to lovingly serve Krishna.  This is repeatedly and authoritively declared in the Vedas.  My experience is that when Krishna actually approaches the devotee, he offers all kinds of sensory wonders, which can tempt the devotee.  If the devotee has reached the stage of pure love of God, then the beautiful forms that appear are no distraction from Him.  Pure bhakti is very rare anywhere, and those in a yoga practice should not invite material temptations. Household life allows physical affection, and there is nothing at all wrong with touching within accepted limits.  A relationship between a yoga teacher and student is different than between a person and spouse, children, parents, friends, etc.   If I were in a yoga class I would expect that no one would touch me during the practice, though greetings or partings are often with hugs.  It’s a sacred space.

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 Unless the teacher is a bonafide spiritual master, the teacher should be considered a material object.  Physical contact from a teacher is a distraction, and can also discourage the student from tuning in to their own intuition to guide their practice Paul A. Howard

I completely understand your reasoning here, but I must admit, there have been times when my instructor has done nothing more than place a finger gently in one spot of "concentration" on my body, and all tension would completely dissolve, and I was able to do the posture with much more understanding.  I never found it distracting, but quite helpful.  Her corrections were almost always verbal; this only happened about two or three times out of the 2 years of instruction I received through her. Namaste Michelle

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For all concerned, I sandra, am an American, I was born here, and raised here. My background is not pure, My father was Jewish, my mother adopted Jesus, my grandparents came as refuges from two European countries, and furthermore I was ‘educated’ in our American public school system. Anyone who wants to know more about me can ask for a copy of my yoga intro. So, it follows that I feel deeply that we are each unique spirits. Any questions that I answer are only my view, and I think the more views the better.           Concerning the issue of touching students to adjust asana, I admit I’m that sort of person, I find human contact soothing. Naturally I’ve been drawn to study teaching yoga with schools that feel the same. It’s confusing that shaktipat (another form of touch) is considered OK, but simple adjustment isn’t. However the type of yogi who whorships Hinduism, or some strict interpretation from India has very little in common with me. My philosophy is pretty straightforward KISS. Keep it simple sandra. I’ve included the post from Paul A. Howard below. He seems to know doctrine very well, perhaps some of us can send our questions directly to him. He seems to think he knows the answers. I give only my opinions.         peace to all, sandra

The easiest way to find out about your yoga class is to ask your teacher where she has studied.

I’m not so sure the easiest way is the best way.  I would look in a local university or city library for some good books.  The very "American" books are seldom very good.  I would definitely find out where your teacher studied, though, and what the program was there.  Yoga is a very important process in a person’s development, and much has been changed to make it "easy" for Americans.  _Real_ yoga is sanata dharma, acting eternally as the Lord’s servant.  It’s best not to learn it wrong, because you eventually have to get it "right". As a 5"2" 107lb, 48 year old woman, I’ve been surprised to find myself reaching way up to adjust students like you. It works just as well though. Yoga knows no boundaries, that’s one of the reasons I love practice. peace, sandra

Why are you touching your students?  If a person is doing yoga well, the senses become very sensitive, but for proper yoga practice the senses need to be subdued.   The purpose of asana, posture, is to develop pratyahara, withdrawal of the senses from material objects.  Unless the teacher is a bonafide spiritual master, the teacher should be considered a material object.  Physical contact from a teacher is a distraction, and can also discourage the student from tuning in to their own intuition to guide their practice.  One must also beware of sexual encounters between student and teacher, and even if this isn’t a factor for you personally, students eventually become teachers, and will assimilate some of your teaching style.

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The Runner’s Yoga Book can be found at Roots & Wings at http://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/store/ybasana.html#Couch The Runner’s Yoga Book by Jean Couch : You will find familiar Iyengar poses with precise and practical advice. With a focus on technique and alignment, the asanas are applied to assist the body of a runner. Others will benefit from the yoga instruction presened, and in the back of the book, suggested asanas for other sports are included. Specific parts of the body are stretched by using classic yoga poses taught Iyengar style. Organizing your practice in a serious way is covered. Athletes and yoga practitioners both will learn from and enjoy this comprehensive guide to yoga.(207 pages, paperback) Hope this helps. Shannon B. yoga.com snip         There is a book of yoga for runners, I can’t recall it right now, perhaps someone else can supply information.

 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

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        The easiest way to find out about your yoga class is to ask your teacher where she has studied. Variations are often used in sun salutations, for begining or more advanced students, and for time of day etc.         The books you mention are both good, i particularly like Erick’s. However I think you might take a look at Beryl Bender Birch’s POWER YOGA and videos by Brian Kest for ashtanga, and John Friend for Iyengar.         There is a book of yoga for runners, I can’t recall it right now, perhaps someone else can supply information.         As a 5"2" 107lb, 48 year old woman, I’ve been surprised to find myself reaching way up to adjust students like you. It works just as well though. Yoga knows no boundaries, that’s one of the reasons I love practice.         peace, sandra

I don’t know anything about Brian Kest’s videos, but I think that David Swenson’s videos are very good.  You just have to take it slowly and remember that a ot of teachers can’t go from a hand stand to sitting with the legs straight in one fluid motion.  So, don’t get discouaged by his ease. I haven’t seen the otehr big one; I believe it’s by Richar Freeman.  The same person writes a column for the Yoga Journal, but I’ve heard good things about him. Abby

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Why are you touching your students?  If a person is doing yoga well, the senses become very sensitive, but for proper yoga practice the senses need to be subdued.   The purpose of asana, posture, is to develop pratyahara, withdrawal of the senses from material objects.  Unless the teacher is a bonafide spiritual master, the teacher should be considered a material object.  Physical contact from a teacher is a distraction, One must also beware of sexual encounters between student and teacher, and even if this isn’t a factor for you personally, students eventually become teachers, and will assimilate some of your teaching style. Paul A. Howard PLEASE NOTE:  Some of the messages from this account are by my wife, Leslie, a.k.a. Guru Chiter Kaur.  The others are from me.

Dear Paul, To me there is nothing wrong to correct students sometimes by touching them. If they want it. I ask before I touch them if they want correction this way. And if they are in the Asana – meditating – I don’t bother them, even when the posture is not correct. Some of them are not that able to do a correct posture just by listening to the words – they have to feel the movement (many Asanas in KY are with dynamic  movement) and it is possible to give a guidance with your hands. I think it is not bad in general to touch, hm? Your interpretation that a withdrawal of the senses from material objects includes all human bodys too is to me a "little bit" too radical – and Yoga is to me not a radical / militant thing. You write that a touching can: "…also discourage the student from tuning in to their own intuition to guide their practice." I didn’t made this experience with my students. No, it is the other way around. Once they really understood the Asana with my help they where able to enjoy it much more and had more confidence in their abilitys to do Yoga etc… I’m the teacher! It’s my duty to correct and help them. If I would leave them alone with their problems – THIS would discourage them! I have to say that I teach "usual" ppl. Grandmas, students, housewifes, scientists, artists, etc… and playing the untouchable teacher to them really would be strange to me and to them too. And as a student (that I’m still are!) I absolutely wouldn’t follow my intuition if I would not sometimes offer physical correction. And you write: "One must also beware of sexual encounters between student and teacher,…" Relax! It’s just about giving corrections – not petting! ) (This never happened to me yet – allthough I’m a beautiful boy! I wounder what you imagine? A massage class? (and even this we have in Kundalini Yoga – with cloths on.) Touching a person could be one of the most intuitive things a human beeing can do. It can say that much more than "only" words. "We are not humans born to make a spiritual experience – we are spirits born to make a human experience." – Yogi Bhajan Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh, teacher of Kundalini Yoga [3HO] Visit the 3HO homepage:  http://yoga.home.pages.de/ [http://privat.schlund.de/harihar/3ho.htm] 3HO international: http://www.3ho.com/ Yogi Bhajan: http://www.yogibhajan.com/ Sikh Dharma: http://www.sikhnet.com/ IKYTA: http://www.sikhnet.com/IKYTA

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The easiest way to find out about your yoga class is to ask your teacher where she has studied.

I’m not so sure the easiest way is the best way.  I would look in a local university or city library for some good books.  The very "American" books are seldom very good.  I would definitely find out where your teacher studied, though, and what the program was there.  Yoga is a very important process in a person’s development, and much has been changed to make it "easy" for Americans.  _Real_ yoga is sanata dharma, acting eternally as the Lord’s servant.  It’s best not to learn it wrong, because you eventually have to get it "right". As a 5"2" 107lb, 48 year old woman, I’ve been surprised to find myself reaching way up to adjust students like you. It works just as well though. Yoga knows no boundaries, that’s one of the reasons I love practice. peace, sandra

Why are you touching your students?  If a person is doing yoga well, the senses become very sensitive, but for proper yoga practice the senses need to be subdued.   The purpose of asana, posture, is to develop pratyahara, withdrawal of the senses from material objects.  Unless the teacher is a bonafide spiritual master, the teacher should be considered a material object.  Physical contact from a teacher is a distraction, and can also discourage the student from tuning in to their own intuition to guide their practice.  One must also beware of sexual encounters between student and teacher, and even if this isn’t a factor for you personally, students eventually become teachers, and will assimilate some of your teaching style. Paul A. Howard PLEASE NOTE:  Some of the messages from this account are by my wife, Leslie, a.k.a. Guru Chiter Kaur.  The others are from me.

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        The easiest way to find out about your yoga class is to ask your teacher where she has studied. Variations are often used in sun salutations, for begining or more advanced students, and for time of day etc.         The books you mention are both good, i particularly like Erick’s. However I think you might take a look at Beryl Bender Birch’s POWER YOGA and videos by Brian Kest for ashtanga, and John Friend for Iyengar.         There is a book of yoga for runners, I can’t recall it right now, perhaps someone else can supply information.         As a 5"2" 107lb, 48 year old woman, I’ve been surprised to find myself reaching way up to adjust students like you. It works just as well though. Yoga knows no boundaries, that’s one of the reasons I love practice.         peace, sandra

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         I just started Yoga recently, at a class at a local gym.  There is also a less-physical, more relaxation-oriented class tomorrow which I plan on going to.  I am, however, unsure of the teacher’s methods .  (this is in knoxville, TN at fort sanders health club)…She did Sun Salutations slightly differently than how I’ve seen in a magazine.  There were no Standing Back Bends and the Plank to Cobra transition seems different.  Could this just be a difference in the style being taught or merely the alterings of the teacher?        I am also going to start running cross-country for school and was wondering which Yoga styles/asanas/methods would the the best for this.  After reading an article in a magazine, I seem to want to try either Ashtanga or Iyengar Yoga…        Also, I was wondering which modern books are best.  Any recommendations would be helpful.  But I am currently debating between Schiffman’s "Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness" or Budilovsky/Adamson’s "Complete Idiot’s Guide to Yoga."             Just to help, I have a very difficult build for Yoga.  I am a 6′2", 165 or so pounds, 17-year old male.  All of these factors could present interference… Thanks…

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De Armac schrieb in Nachricht         I just started Yoga recently, at a class at a local gym.  There is also a less-physical, more relaxation-oriented class tomorrow which I plan on going to.  I am, however, unsure of the teacher’s methods .  (this is in knoxville, TN at fort sanders health club)…She did Sun Salutations slightly differently than how I’ve seen in a magazine.  There were no Standing Back Bends and the Plank to Cobra transition seems different.  Could this just be a difference in the style being taught or merely the alterings of the

teacher? It could be a difference / adjustment the teacher made. Some ppl can not do that backbend motion. Maybe she just adjust the exercise. But, why don’t you ask her yourself? (I bet she’s not biting you….       I am also going to start running cross-country for school and was wondering which Yoga styles/asanas/methods would the the best for this. After reading an article in a magazine, I seem to want to try either Ashtanga or Iyengar Yoga…

These are great and good working Yogastyles / schools. Good choice.       Also, I was wondering which modern books are best.  Any recommendations would be helpful.  But I am currently debating between Schiffman’s "Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness" or Budilovsky/Adamson’s "Complete Idiot’s Guide to Yoga."          Just to help, I have a very difficult build for Yoga.  I am a 6′2", 165 or so pounds, 17-year old male.  All of these factors could present interference… Thanks…

I don’t think that you are "difficult build for Yoga". Believe it or not: you could sit in a weelchair and just be able to move your head – you still would be able to do Yoga. No Problem. Sat Nam – Hari Har Singh, Teacher of Kundalini Yoga [3HO] Visit the 3HO homepage:  http://yoga.home.pages.de/

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         I just started Yoga recently, at a class at a local gym.  There is also a less-physical, more relaxation-oriented class tomorrow which I plan on going to.  I am, however, unsure of the teacher’s methods .  (this is in knoxville, TN at fort sanders health club)…She did Sun Salutations slightly differently than how I’ve seen in a magazine.  There were no Standing Back Bends and the Plank to Cobra transition seems different.  Could this just be a difference in the style being taught or merely the alterings of the teacher?

Namaste…. Yoga is a 5,000 year old practice (speaking only of its "recorded" history!) so, yes… there are MANY variations of the techniques.        I am also going to start running cross-country for school and was wondering which Yoga styles/asanas/methods would the the best for this.  

Be sure to incorporate those techniques which allow *relaxed* stretching of the primary muscles you use in CC running:  arches, ankles, calves, hams, quads, hip flexors, and don’t forget the low back and the lats. After reading an article in a magazine, I seem to want to try either Ashtanga or Iyengar Yoga…

Ashtanga is almost an aerobic workout; most Iyengar instructors I have met focus on building strength and balance.  Both of these would probably suit your personal style and would enhance your CC, but also be sure to include *relaxing* stretches as mentioned above.  Relaxed stretchingf and deep breathing will "complement" your running by keeping your muscles supple and non-bulky, while helping to remove toxic chemical build-up (such as lactic acids) that are produced during exertion exercises and are the primary cause of much muscle soreness after running or other workouts. Many instructors (aerobic and yoga) do "stretching" techniques that do not allow the muscles to relax during the stretch.  Remember:  Muscles can do only two things: they can contract (get shorter) and they can relax.  No muscle can extend itself.  Therefore, to whatever degree a muscle is NOT relaxed, it is contracting.  This means that any so-called stretch that does not relax the extending muscles, puts them in the unhealthy position of trying to get longer AND shorter at the same time.  Many injuries occur this way.        Also, I was wondering which modern books are best.  Any recommendations would be helpful.  But I am currently debating between Schiffman’s "Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness" or Budilovsky/Adamson’s "Complete Idiot’s Guide to Yoga."

Let your own wisdom guide you.  If you stay with the practice long enough you will end up with an entire yoga library and you will learn something important from each and every book (although from some books you will learn more about what NOT to do, than what TO do.)           Just to help, I have a very difficult build for Yoga.  I am a 6′2", 165 or so pounds, 17-year old male.  All of these factors could present interference…

Actually, this is an excellent build for yoga!  Taller than average, to be sure; but the most "difficult" body type for (physical) yoga is short and squat, which makes many of the complex arm and leg positions (like the lotus or the eagle) difficult-to-impossible to accomplish.  You’ll be able to do fine. Thanks…

Hope this helps. Om shanti, — Robert http://www.ptw.com/~wisehart/yoga/

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says…       I am also going to start running cross-country for school and was wondering which Yoga styles/asanas/methods would the the best for this.  After reading an article in a magazine, I seem to want to try either Ashtanga or Iyengar Yoga…

I’d suggest trying both if that’s possible for you. Each has a different perspective on yoga practice, but both are good systems. Madona and Sting both do Astanga practice, so imho it’s the better system for me! (just kidding!) <g       Also, I was wondering which modern books are best.  Any recommendations would be helpful.  But I am currently debating between Schiffman’s "Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness" or Budilovsky/Adamson’s "Complete Idiot’s Guide to Yoga."  

Schiffman’s book is pretty good.  But it’s awfully hard to learn yoga from a book!  A good teacher is really important.          Just to help, I have a very difficult build for Yoga.  I am a 6′2", 165 or so pounds, 17-year old male.  All of these factors could present interference…

??? I"m not sure what you mean here about your build. I’ve seen many men your dimensions that could do it all, yoga asana wise. If you practice daily you’ll get results, and yoga is the best thing you can do to complement your running.

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The teachers changes sound like a simplification for those who are not considered ready for the full salutation.  I Personally am not into watered down yoga.  I would lean toward teaching more basic exercises or teaching the standard and offering alternatives for those not yet capable.  I do not mean to criticize your teacher, but it seems you are requesting frank honest information.  It seems that you are learning quickly and are hungary for more.  My own development, and that of my partner as well, has been similiar.  I began practising at 18 (I’m now 21) and this has been a great advantage, and I’m sure it is so with you as well.  Your build should not be a problem either, it’s just a matter of becoming grounded in your body and feeling it.  Yoga practice will bring strength and grace.  I suggest against the "yoga for idiots book" – just think about it!  There is a great book put out by the editors of yoga international or yoga jounal- shoot I can’t remember the name of it.  It goes through several branches of yoga and explains them.  If you are interested, email me, and I’ll find out.  I started with kundalini yoga and am now a teacher of it.  Many beginners consider it too intense, but it was just what I was looking for.  It is not dangerous if practised as prescribed.  It was designed for those of us who must live in the world and was practised by sikhs, who have had  to be warriors.  It will definately get you into shape and blow your mind away too.  Guru Chiter

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –         I just started Yoga recently, at a class at a local gym.  There is also a less-physical, more relaxation-oriented class tomorrow which I plan on going to.  I am, however, unsure of the teacher’s methods .  (this is in knoxville, TN at fort sanders health club)…She did Sun Salutations slightly differently than how I’ve seen in a magazine.  There were no Standing Back Bends and the Plank to Cobra transition seems different.  Could this just be a difference in the style being taught or merely the alterings of the teacher?       I am also going to start running cross-country for school and was wondering which Yoga styles/asanas/methods would the the best for this. After reading an article in a magazine, I seem to want to try either Ashtanga or Iyengar Yoga…       Also, I was wondering which modern books are best.  Any recommendations would be helpful.  But I am currently debating between Schiffman’s "Yoga: The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness" or Budilovsky/Adamson’s "Complete Idiot’s Guide to Yoga."          Just to help, I have a very difficult build for Yoga.  I am a 6′2", 165 or so pounds, 17-year old male.  All of these factors could present interference… Thanks…

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Question:

Here is a video you might be interested in: YogaKids (for children – ages three to ten) is a creative and entertaining way to bring the joy of exercise and the wonder of all living things to your children. The video offers: 20 simple yoga poses 5 fun original songs Increases strength and flexibility Challenges imagination Enhances respect for nature Find at the bottom of : https://www.yoga.com/raw/yoga/store/sylvia.htm Hoping you will visit! Shannon B. midwife and mom to Gabe  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

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My five-year old saw me doing yoga and looked at some of the Sivananda books. He caught on very quickly.  He can naturally do a perfect lotus very easily. Now he makes up his own asanas and challenges me to imitate what he does. I told him he’ll have to teach the class from now on.

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