Yoga and Healthy Living - Five Yogic Secrets to Healthy Living

Are you interested in looking after your health? Do you read healthy living magazines and dream of living the sort of life where you always eat well, have enough sleep, and work-out three times a week? But in reality, you drive everywhere, have fast-food takeaways and burn the candle at both ends?

Like most people you probably strive to lead a healthy balanced lifestyle. You aspire to prepare freshly cooked meals, make time for friends and family and have a lean-toned body.

Given the fast pace of modern day living, it can be very difficult to fit everything in. It takes time to go to the gym, time to go shopping and buy fresh fruit and vegetables and even longer to cook a healthy meal for your family.

In view of this, what can you do to carry out your good intentions? What can you do to live a healthier lifestyle? Is it possible to be healthy and still fit in all your every day activities.

Yoga may well be the secret ingredient in your quest to live a healthier lifestyle. The teachings' and practice of yoga are based on the five following points; put together these points help you to live a healthier more balanced lifestyle.

Five Yogic Secrets to Healthier Living

1. Yoga Exercises. Yoga exercises or Asanas, help to strengthen and tone the physical body. Regular yoga practice promotes flexibility in the joints and stimulates circulation. If you can fit 10 - 20 minutes of gentle yoga stretches into your daily schedule you will feel healthier and stronger.

2. Yoga Breathing Exercises. Yoga breathing exercises help to cleanse, strengthen and purify your mind and body. There is a close link between your state of mind and the way you breathe. Correct breathing forms an essential part of yoga and meditation and helps to bring mental and emotional balance to your body and mind. Again, a few minutes of yoga breathing exercises practiced throughout your day will help you to feel calmer and more in control of the situations in your life.

3. Yoga Relaxation Exercises. Learning to relax is an art. The pace of life today can often prevent you from taking time out to rest and relax. Through yoga relaxation techniques you are able to relieve stress symptoms and develop resistance to deal with life's stressful conditions.

4. Healthy Eating. As you know there is a direct link between what you eat and what you are. Yoga advocates eating a simple, wholesome and natural diet; one that helps to keep your body in optimum health. In addition, a yogic diet principle is to eat foods which create the least harm to other living beings and the environment.

5. Positive Thinking and Meditation. Through the practice of meditation it is possible to achieve a state of inner peace, calm and balance. These are essential qualities to ensure you do not allow negative thoughts to spoil your day. By being aware of your self-talk, and thoughts about yourself and others, it is possible to reduce the harm you cause to others.

As you can see, the practice of yoga offers you a range of tools and principles which you can use in your search to live a healthier lifestyle. Yoga is about achieving balance and harmony in your inner life and outer world. Rather than beat yourself up, just try to include one of the above yoga points into your daily life and with time, you will achieve your desire to feel healthier and live a healthier lifestyle.

Ntathu Allen, Hatha Yoga Teacher works with women who want a richer, more fulfilling life for themselves and their families. She inspires and supports you to take time-out from your busy schedule to release stress and nurture your mind body and soul. To find out more visit http://www.yogainspires.co.uk and receive your FREE Special Report - Ten Yoga Postures To Jump-Start Your Day when you sign up for Ntathu's Free weekly Yoga Newsletter on http://www.yogainspires.co.uk

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Asana - Yoga Discipline

In the Asana (in Samskrta / Sanskrit, the ancient language base of YOGA) people manage to reach the stage of maximum personal capacity, an exacerbated development, an exceptional concentration and a powerful personal growth, all particularities of YOGA. The movement that follows the stop should be complementary to this and completely smooth, completely dominating the Gravity. In Asana we learn to relax in tension, which is a secret of Yoga.

The Asana, in Yoga, has the following objectives:

1. The muscle strengthening, stretching and its elasticity, and tendons;

2. The strengthening of bone, joint flexibility and functionality, and ligaments

3. The work and balanced endocrine / hormonal function, neurological / neuron-vegetative, and the health psycho-bio-physics

4. An intense brain stimulation, the full control of the body and mind and strengthening of the important anti-relationship brain / body (and hand), and especially the exploration of the relationship (inverse) body / brain

5. Control of the 1.st Universal Force, the gravitational stability, control of movement, and Harmony

6. Operation of organs, tissues, blood and lymphatic circulatory systems, digestive, excretory, selector and sexual

7. The strength and endurance, self-confidence

8. The ability to endure difficult situations in a lucid, accurate and stress-free way and face normal situations in a shrewd and clever form

9. A strong and super cerebral Irrigation and a super lucidity

10. Strengthening of the Will, living together with Tapa - heat of Self-Demand, training of Attention and Continuous Concentration for long periods of time

11. The opening, clearing, widening and strengthening of Nadi (Residual energy of the human DNA) the elimination of toxins, and the development of Chakra (pronounced tchakra - Centers of Energy and intersections of the Nadi)

12. The preparation for intense Energy and vibration work, directed mainly to the spine, spinal cord and ependyma chanel - Sushumna Nadi, predisposing to the passage of Super Power Kundalini (Residual DNA Energy), which once activated and well conducted, provides in Dhyana - True Meditation (another of the Twelve Technical

Disciplines of Yoga) Samadhi (Enlightenment) - Supreme Cosmic Consciousness Intellective-human.

I write on several different subjects. You can see my other articles by clicking on Adidas Yoga Pants and Yoga Pants Men.

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Mastering the Craft of Teaching Yoga

Did you ever question your devotion to teaching Yoga? Have you ever internally questioned the devotion of another Yoga teacher? It is only human to question and make comparisons. Making comparisons, and judging, has kept you alive up to this point. Every step in life requires you to make some form of judgment or a decision.

You can freely decide to become a Yoga teacher. You decide whether to get out of bed, or not, each day. You choose to eat breakfast, take a shower, meditate, watch television, or anything else, after you wake up. To choose, or decide, is a form of judgment. So, how did we get the idea that judgment should be restrained?

Our judgments, and pre-conceived notions, concerning ourselves and others, can be self-destructive. Prejudice and intolerance have led humankind toward the path of hate, and narrow-minded thinking, throughout history. We have also learned that harsh judgments of others hold us back as a species.

This is why non-judgment is praised as a higher quality. Tolerance and mutual respect, over our differences, gives us the power of collective thinking. When we communicate with others, who have different thoughts; we collectively learn from the experience. This ability, to accept differences in others, is the path to progress for humankind.

Due to Internet communication, television, and radio, we have access to new ideas every day. This does not mean all outside ideas will be easily accepted, but we have come a long way since our cave dwelling ancestors. New ideas are subject to practical application and time. This is why any fresh ideas are worthy of "air time."

In judging ourselves too harshly, we waste time wishing we could change the past. This is a mistake that can lead to feelings of regret, depression, and self-contempt. The experience from mistakes, helps us learn more about what we are made of. We are better off to learn from our past mistakes, try to correct them, and move forwar - enriched by the experience.

Many interns join Yoga teacher training courses as a quest for self-discovery. The journey of understanding your true purpose in life is a noble path, but it is not the end of the path. If you are lucky enough to understand yourself, and you know your unique purpose in this life, you should help others who are seeking answers.

Each Yoga student has unique abilities, skills, and talents that contribute to the better good of your community. Yet, some students feel they are not worthy of praise. The best Yoga teachers help students reach their optimum potential in life.

© Copyright 2010 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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The Benefits of Prenatal Yoga - How it Helps During Your Pregnancy and Delivery

Yoga is something that has been around for many years, but recently yoga has received a lot of attention. There are many people that are falling in love with yoga. Prenatal yoga is one of few exercises you can do when you are pregnant and it can help you not only during your pregnancy, but also during your delivery.

Yoga is one exercise that has slow and controlled movements and this is great for pregnancy. You will not be doing any jarring movements and this is something that is not recommended when you are pregnant. If you are staying on your level, yoga should not do anything that will harm or potentially harm your unborn baby.

Pregnancy can often be very uncomfortable, especially during the last few months and prenatal yoga can be a great way to relieve some of the discomfort you may have been experiencing. You may even be able to find a class or course that you can take that is designed to help relieve some of the stress you may be feeling in your body due to pregnancy.

You may be able to find a class that is made specifically for prenatal yoga and this can help you to get in the best shape. You will want to schedule a class as soon as possible to get the maximum benefits of yoga during pregnancy. If you participate regularly it may even help you to have an easier labor and delivery and you can use some of the things taught during prenatal yoga during labor also.

If you do not want to participate in a traditional class, or are unable to find one, you may consider using the internet to help you find a good guide. You can easily find some great resources online that will help you to learn some of the poses associated with yoga for pregnancy. When you use an online resource you can learn as quickly as you like and you do not have to wait on an instructor to move forward with your lesson.

Prenatal yoga has a variety of benefits and you will want to make sure that you work with your doctor if you have never participated in yoga before. There are many non stressful poses that you can do to help make your body more comfortable during pregnancy. If you have been considering yoga and you are pregnant, make sure that you choose a program that is specifically designed for pregnancy, and you will be amazed at what yoga can do for you.

Now Pay Close Attention

Yoga is something that should not be taken lightly. While it can help you attain physical strength and a calm and centered mindset, there are things you must be wary of when first starting out.

Know more about prenatal yoga and be filled with information, details and tips to follow along from beginner poses to the most advanced poses out there by visiting: http://www.YogaGuideReview.rev-u.com.

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Yoga Sutra's of Patanjali - The Beginners Guide to the Yoga Sutras

If you are new to yoga or even a seasoned yogi, chances are you have heard your yoga teacher mention the words "the sutra's" or the "eight limbs of yoga" or even mentioned the great yoga teacher, Patanjali.

Did you realise that the Sutras form the philosophical basis of your physical practice? In fact, yoga, which means 'union' is about the bringing together and harmonization of your mind, body and soul. Through a deeper understanding of the philosophical aspects of yoga it is possible for you to go deeper into your practice and make yoga an even bigger part of your daily life.

The Sutra's of Patanjali is one of the most popular texts dealing with yoga philosophy. Widely influenced by the great Indian sage Patanjali, most modern day yoga students' first introduction to philosophy is through their introduction to the Yamas and Niyamas or in hearing the words "the Eight Limbs of Yoga".

Patanjali is known as one of the founders of yoga. Born around 300 BC, Patanjali's texts give you a set of 196 aphorisms or threads known as the Sutras. This work epitomizes the principles and practices of yoga as it brings together all the various strands and thoughts re yoga philosophy into one comprehensive bundle of knowledge.

The Four Chapters of the Sutras

The Sutras offer you a thread, or sutra to follow though each stage of your yoga journey. The Sutras contain four chapters, each chapter covering a different stage and approach to yoga.

1. The first chapter explains yoga and focuses on how the mind fluctuates, the obstacles the mind creates and the effect this has on you and your yoga practice.
2. The second chapter focuses on the Eight Limbs of Yoga, which is where most yoga students first encounter the Sutras.
3. The third chapter of the Sutras explores the potential of your mind and the vast release of potential which can be gained through the practice and mastery of yoga.
4. The fourth chapter discusses the soul and its final journey towards release and liberation.

The Sutras and the Eight Limbs of Yoga

As previously stated, the more common known Sutra text, is the second chapter of the Sutra. According to Patanjali, this consists of eight limbs, known as 'The Eight Limbs of Yoga'. Each of the limbs form part of yoga philosophy yet each limb has its own separate meaning or identity. The ultimate aim is to study and gradually integrate the Eight Limbs of Yoga into your daily life. This gives you a well rounded, more holistic yoga practice. The Eight Limbs can be viewed as stepping stones towards the traditional goal of yoga - self realisation and enlightenment - a true and deep sense of inner peace and universal connection.

The first five limbs of the Eight Limbs of Yoga help to clear negative emotions and behaviours and prepare the body and mind for the next three limbs, which lead to enlightenment or Samadi as it is known in yoga.

The first five limbs consist of

1. Yama (a set of social codes for communal ethical living)
2. Niyama (guidelines for personal conduct and behaviour)
3. Asana (yoga postures)
4. Pranayama (breath control)
5. Pratyahara (withdrawal and control of the senses)

The last three limbs are

6. Dharana (concentration)
7. Dhyana (meditation)
8. Samadhi (enlightenment, self-realisation)

As a Yoga Teacher, I have noticed some students prefer to study the philosophical side of yoga whilst others favour the more practical aspects. Neither is right nor wrong; however, I believe, in true yogic fashion, we seek union, so it is the blending, practicing and understanding of the theory and practice which leads to a deeper more holistic and balanced mind body and spirit.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way out of your current crazy hectic lifestyle and wish to regain calm and balance in your home-work life then claim your FREE special report Yoga Exercises And Relaxation Techniques To Help You Start Your Day In A Calm and Peaceful Way on http://www.yogainspires.co.uk guaranteed to help you start your day on a positive, peaceful vibe.

Blessings From Ntathu Allen, Yoga and Meditation Teacher. Visit me for further support and encouragement on your personal wellness journey on http://www.yogainspires.co.uk

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Your First Yoga Class - What to Expect

So you've finally made the big leap into the unknown - your first yoga class is approaching. You've picked which class to go to, found out where to park and how much the class will cost, but what should you expect when you walk through the doors?

Yoga - more than just an exercise class

The mysterious first yoga class is a time of discovery. You'll discover that not every yoga practitioner is a highly committed, eco-conscious vegetarian; that designer gear will not help you into a difficult pose any sooner; and you will discover secrets about your body and your mind that even you never knew. Sound intriguing? Well that's yoga for you! It's more than just an exercise class.

Yoga teachers have got your back - there's no need to worry

Yoga people tend to be a friendly bunch. The dynamics of each yoga class and each studio differ greatly but all should be welcoming and inclusive, not judgemental. Everyone in the class is an equal in the eyes of the teacher so stop worrying about your lack of knowledge or inability to touch your toes, it simply doesn't matter.

Yoga classes are non-competitive

Don't try to keep up with other people in the class. Yoga is an individual practice and everyone is different. Even yoga teachers aren't perfect at every pose. We all have our physical limitations and part of yoga is learning to respect your body, be kind to it and don't push it further than it wants to go. Your body will open into poses when it is ready, so be patient during the early stages of your practice.

,strong>What to take to yoga classes

On a practical note, what do you take to a class? Water is a good idea, unless you are practising Ashtanga when water should not be consumed during the class. You may wish to take a small towel and, if hygiene concerns you, your own mat and an eye pillow for the relaxation at the end.

Yoga mats

Studios generally supply mats so it is not essential to buy your own; this decision comes down to personal preference. Some studios may not disinfect and update their mats as regularly as perhaps they should and practising on a stale smelling mat is not the most pleasant experience. On an environmental note, if this is your first ever experience of yoga it is probably best not to buy your own mat until you know that the practice is for you.

Studio etiquette

Stinky mats bring us on to some rather basic studio etiquette which is all too often ignored. If you use one of the studio's mats, you should clean it after the class. This only takes a moment and you will find a disinfectant spray and cloths near where the mats are stored. Please take a moment to do this; if one person cleans their mat then others tend to follow.

Yoga poses first up

The content of your class will vary depending on the style your chosen studio follows. Generally speaking though, beginners' classes focus on the asanas or poses and tend not to include any advanced breathing techniques or chanting.

If you approach your first class with an open mind, a spirit of adventure and an understanding that yoga is not a competitive sport then you will be fine. Congratulations on embarking on the first stage of your yoga journey, and enjoy!

With the Yoga Classes Directory, now you can search for local yoga classes in your area.

All yoga traditions are represented, so you can easily find a local yoga studio that offers the tradition of your choice - bikram, hatha, ashtanga or iyengar yoga classes are all listed in the Yoga Classes Directory.

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What about yoga gear like yoga pants, yoga clothes and yoga mats?

You'll find a wide range of suppliers and product reviews and you can conveniently shop online.

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Yoga Philosophy - Seven Common Questions Yoga Beginners Ask About Yoga Spiritual Teachings

As a Yoga Teacher, I have noticed a lot of my yoga beginner students asking me questions about the wider aspects of yoga.

Many of my students started yoga as a way to learn how to relax, to become more flexible and even to lose weight and help with fertility issues. However, over time, they notice other changes in their life and at the end of their class are keen to discuss the more spiritual side of yoga.

I find this fascinating and am always happy to share my understanding of yoga and its impact on life with fellow students.

Maybe you have started to reflect on some of the more subtle aspects of your practice and also have questions you would like to explore about yoga spirituality and philosophy.

Here are seven common questions students ask about yoga philosophy

1. Is Yoga a religion? In my view, yoga is not a religion. Yoga is a health and personal development system which covers healthy exercise, breathing exercises, healthy eating, meditation techniques and relaxation exercises. Together these principles offer you a set of tools to release stress and tension from your body, calm and clear your mind, rebalance your energy and help you become clearer about your purpose in life. If you are religious, then practicing yoga will increase your ability to enjoy your faith and become closer to your god.

2. What are the Sutras? The Sutras cover the principles and practices of yoga. It consists of threads or commentaries which bring together all the various strands and thoughts regarding yoga philosophy into one main literary source.

3. What are the Yamas and Niyamas? The Yamas and Niyamas form part of the Eight Limbs of Yoga. They offer personal guidelines and universal principles on how to live a healthy, balanced life.

4. I thought Yoga was just a set of exercises. What has Yoga Philosophy got to do with yoga? Yoga is over 5,000 years old. Yoga means union, balancing of the mind, body and spirit. Traditionally, the practice of yoga (exercises, relaxation and breathing exercises) was used to assist the monks in their daily spiritual practice. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind. Nowadays, many students view yoga as a series of stretching exercises and do not realize the rich heritage of their class.

5. If yoga is so old and good for you and supposed to be peace loving why are there still wars and dispute? Man has free will. Yoga is not prescriptive and does not dictate how you should live your life. Yoga, per se, offers you a set of tools to improve your health and well being. Like a grain of sand, it takes many yogis to make a difference on a local and national level.

6. I heard my Yoga Teacher talk about a man named Pantajali, who is he, and what is he famous for? In Yoga, there are many Master Teachers. People who dedicated their life to studying all aspects of yoga and then desired to share their knowledge with others. Patanjali is known as one of the founders of yoga. Born around 300 BC, Patanjali's knowledge of yoga is contained within the Sutras.

7. What are the Eight Limbs of Yoga? What exactly do they do? The Eight Limbs of Yoga form part of the Sutras and as such, form the ethical and philosophical foundation of your yoga practice.

The Eight Limbs consist of:

1. Yama (a set of social codes for communal ethical living)
2. Niyama (guidelines for personal conduct and behaviour)
3. Asana (yoga postures)
4. Pranayama (breath control)
5. Pratyahara (withdrawal and control of the senses)
6. Dharana (concentration)
7. Dhyana (meditation)
8. Samadhi (enlightenment, self-realisation)

In essence, yoga is a holistic health care system which heals, strengthens and unifies your mind body spirit. As such yoga philosophy offers you discourse and ethical considerations to reflect upon and develop the "mind" aspect of your being.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way out of your current crazy hectic lifestyle and wish to regain calm and balance in your home-work life then claim your FREE special report Yoga Exercises And Relaxation Techniques To Help You Start Your Day In A Calm and Peaceful Way on http://www.yogainspires.co.uk guaranteed to help you start your day on a positive, peaceful vibe.

Blessings From Ntathu Allen, Yoga and Meditation Teacher. Visit me for further support and encouragement on your personal wellness journey on http://www.yogainspires.co.uk.

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