The Story of Yoga

Picture courtesy of TheSecretsofYoga.com

from Care1.com
Adapted from The Yoga Year, by Celia Toler

Between the 7th and 5th centuries B.C.E., the early texts of the Upanishads were composed. They are the last texts of the Vedas and are known as the Vedanta or Conclusion of the Vedas. The tone of these treatises and poems is philosophical and mystical, and there is no longer an interest in ritual sacrifice.

SIMPLE SOLUTION: While the Vedas were hymns to the outer world of creation, to nature and its forces, the Upanishads provide a transformation of thought, in which the Divine or transcending principle is searched for from within. The self-training for this is yoga.

The Upanishads, like the Vedas, were not written down to begin with, but memorized and handed down from teacher to pupil. The Sanskrit term Upanishad refers to sitting for instruction at the feet of a master, and the Sanskrit word guru means a spiritual teacher. This method of transferring knowledge by teaching yoga on a one-to-one basis has been employed up to the present day. However, increased communication and translation of the texts are no changing this approach.

The teaching of the Upanishads was concerned with the desire for release (moksha) from the round of births and deaths through reincarnation that had been accepted as a concept by the time of the Upanishads' conception. This release, the writings taught, was to be gained through meditation, yoga, and asceticism, which would unite the soul (atman) within with the absolute spirit (brahman) without.

The concept of karma, by which every action, good or bad, has a cause and therefore a reaction that is impossible to escape, was also accepted. Because of their reincarnation, it is believed, actions in our present lives determine our fate in lives that follow through the karmic memory in our higher consciousness. Desire is the cause of karma and, because of the desire to live in the ordinary world, the cycle of samsara, the endless chain of rebirth, cannot be escaped. Actions without desires for reward or attainment free the soul from the effects of karma.

The thoughts contained in the Upanishads, counteracting the ritualism of the Vedas, were enormously influential. By 500 B.C.E., religion and society were changing. Cities had begun to grown again, and a strong merchant class was upsetting the old orders of priest, warrior, trader, and serf. The Vedic-Aryans had taken over northern India, and the center of their culture was in the north-eastern delta of the Ganges.

An aggressive empire of the Maghada dynasty led a number of disaffected groups to follow their own paths of beliefs away from the increasingly rigid interpretation of the Brahmin priests. Breakaway sects of ascentics, mystics, and renuciants began to follow new teachers, such as Siddartha Gautoma (c.563 - 483 B.C.E.), the Buddha, and Vardhamana (c. 599-527 B.C.E.), who became the Mahavira and founded Jainism.

Yogitoes Founder - Susan Nichols

Susan Nichols, a former artistic director in the toy industry turned to the ancient practice for rehabilitation after a debilitating back injury led to surgery in 1994; she found it so rewarding that she became a yoga instructor. Then she slipped.

'I was practicing yoga and I slipped on my "sticky" mat - the irony is, they become slippery when wet,' Nichols says. 'It was one of those "divine" moments. I thought, why doesn't someone design a towel that you could put over your mat to absorb moisture and keep you from slipping?'

Nichols envisioned a full-size towel that would not only absorb moisture, protect against slipping and extend the longevity of a yoga mat, but would also allow travelers to practice on a hotel room carpet, as well as protect yogis from the bacteria that collect on your yoga mat. A smaller towel, Nichols thought, would be ideal for Pilates, Spinning, weight-lifting and sculpting.

She went on an international search for the perfect fabric from which to create the towel. In Korea, she found microfiber, an extremely absorbent fabric that is soft, lightweight, machine washable and dryer safe. Nichols then combined the non toxic nubs patenting, SKIDLESS® under the brand in 2003.

"It's not a towel, it's not a mat, it's a SKIDLESS®," Nichols explains. "It's a brand, like Kleenex or Levis, that defines itself by its name and the distinctive dot that serves as the logo."

In January 2005, launched the SHIVA prop pillow. The first prop pillow designed to give you extra support during restorative poses, the Shiva prop pillow has a uniquely narrow, sloped shape that supports the head to keep yogis awake while practicing savasana (the "corpse pose" that concludes each yoga class). Created from memory foam and covered in SKIDLESS® fabric, the SHIVA prop pillow again filled a void in the yoga world.

In October 2005, Nichols introduced SKIDLESS® BIG, designed for tall yogis-especially men-who use an extra-long mat. BIG is available only in the indigo color which, like all colors, has an association with a specific chakra; indigo pertains to the third-eye chakra and psychic perception.

Other products are available in these seven chakra colors:

• red (root chakra for grounding and abundance)
• orange (sacral chakra for sexuality and creativity)
• yellow (solar plexus chakra for power)
• green (heart chakra for love and compassion)
• blue (throat chakra for communication and self-expression)
• purple (third eye chakra for psychic perception)
• white (crown chakra for spirit and higher consciousness)

continues to expand, with several products set to launch in 2006, including yoga totes, a blanket, prop pillow, strap, bolster, meditation pillow, yoga mat, and a collection of yoga accessories for children.

Acting on her "divine" inspiration, Nichols didn't intend to revolutionize the yoga market - she was simply designing for her own need.

YOGITOES SHIVA PROP yoga shiva prop yogitoes savasana support prop

YOGITOES SHIVA PROP yoga shiva prop yogitoes savasana support prop RED. Yogitoes SHIVA is the first prop designed to give extra support during restorative poses or when practicing savasana. Use YOGITOES SHIVA under you ankle hip knee sacrum or wherever you need extra cushion. Use under your head or neck when practicing savasana. Perfect compact size for travel. Endless ways to use SHIVA. SHIVA Prop size is about 4 x 8 inches. The pillow style cushion is covered in a soft wicking fabric and feels comfortable next to the skin. The fabric absorbs moisture and dries quickly. Available in many colors. Each color sold separately. Great gift idea and stocking stuffer. Use with Yoga or any mat exercise or stretching routine whenever a little more support is needed. Matching Yogitoes towels available. Gift sets also available at a discount price.

Click here for the best prices online for Yogitoes Products.
We will meet or beat anyone's online price.

Spring Savings are in the Air at eFashionHouse.com, Plus Site Welcomes Melie Bianco, Murval and Elaine Turner

eFashionHouse.com ushers in spring with new arrivals, savings up to 50% and adds three new handbag designers - Melie Bianco, Murval and Elaine Turner.

Sky Valley, CA (PRWEB) March 26, 2008 -- After months of winter fashion accessories, spring is finally on its way and eFashionHouse.com celebrates with savings of 25-70% on the latest trends in designer handbags. Committed to offering shoppers the best online prices for purses, eFashionHouse.com, named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch for below retail priced designer handbags and recognized by About.com as the top of three online retailers of off-priced Chanel, just added hundreds of new designer handbags from Marc Jacobs, Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Anya Hindmarch, Isabelle Fiore, Coach, Tano and many more top designers, just in time for spring. The site also added three new designer fashion brands - Melie Bianco, Murval and Elaine Turner - to its huge selection of designer handbags for even more savings.

"We are excited to add Melie Bianco, Murval and Elaine Turner handbags because the handbag demand has changed from including not only the big designer names to now welcoming other chic designers with more affordable prices," said Anna Miller, eFashionHouse Owner. "Regardless of the Economy, women still want to buy themselves a new purse, and making affordable prices available online is the purpose of eFashionHouse where you do not have to spend a fortune to carry a new quality designer handbag."

With all purses priced under $100, both Melie Bianco and Murval are known for their trendy styles and amazing prices. A favorite among fashion editors, Melie Bianco has been featured in an array of magazines, like Marie Claire, People, Cosmopolitan and Self, because it is "chic and affordable" line (prices range from $30-$75) features funky and wearable styles perfect for the trendy fashionista. Another brand that is known for offering the look of couture without the high price, French company MURVAL was created by two sisters, Muriel and Valerie, who recognized the need for fashionable accessories at accessible prices. With its bags costing less than $50, MURVAL comes out with two collections a year and despite the low price points scores high among the fashion crowd.

Though not in the under $100 category, Dallas-based fashion designer Elaine Turner is still considered a bargain since her line features the finest embossed exotic leathers and signature painted grass cloth bags. Elaine Turner quickly rose to the ranks of the fashion It Bag and the brands popularity continues to grow because of its distinct and creative approach to classic looks in handbags and accessories.

Shoppers who crave the more luxurious designer handbag names can still look forward to savings and shop for the latest trends because eFashionHouse.com has it all. Some of the featured handbag styles available at a discount are:

• Marc Jacobs Patchwork Lou bag - 35% off retail
  
• Moschino Patent Leather Brownie bag - 28% off retail
  
• Anya Hindmarch Neeson bag - 20% off retail
  
• Chloe Bay Bag - 31% off retail
  
• Yves Saint Laurent Downtown Bag - 21% off retail
  
• Chanel Small Caviar Tote - 22% off retail
  
• Isabella Fiore Puff Enough Satchel - 15% off retail

In addition to the discounted prices, shoppers can receive an additional 10 percent discount using coupon code OFF10 when making a purchase from the eFashionHouse Sale Section. Plus, budget conscious fashionistas can always take advantage of the eFashionHouse.com layaway plan which allows shoppers to pay over time.

About eFashionHouse.com
Anna Miller is the President of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. She operates the website http://www.efashionhouse.com/ and sells high-end authentic designer handbags and accessories at off-retail prices. eFashionHouse.com was named Best of the Web by People Magazine StyleWatch for Discount Designer Handbags and Purses. eFashionHouse.com should not be confused with any other website selling a similar product or using a similar name. EfashionHouse.com is the home of five fashion ecommerce stores: BrandsBoutique, LuxuryVintage, DesignersLA, ItalysOutlet, and ValueBags. Anna is considered an Internet Pioneer and Ecommerce Entrepreneur. She has been reselling Designer Merchandise online since the early 90's. eFashionHouse.com has an extensive Press Page and a Fashion Blog Network. Visit the site for more details.

eFashionHouse - PRWeb Press Release Group

Interested in an EFH Layaway Plan? You can put anything on layaway.
Read about the EFH Layaway here: eFashionHouse.com Layaway Program

GREEN AMBASSADORS

Posted by powerfulmothers

New World leaders in training
Written by Bobbi Miller-Moro

Visiting the Green Ambassadors new facilities in Lawndale, California I noticed right away this program is driving Environmental Charter High School to be like no other. Maybe it was the compost corner and vegetable garden, or where they convert vegetables into biodiesel. Or the First Place award-winning ‘Floatation Machine’ made out 100% recycled products. Either way, this school is unique. I am at the home of The Green Ambassadors, which is an educational program from the Environmental Charter High School.

Sara Laimon, the magnetic Founder of Green Ambassadors gave me a tour of their new facilities of ECHS and Green Ambassadors, while still in the remodeling and upgrading phase. As the school is moving out of boxes, and organizing their new classrooms she explained the sustainable plans in store for this unique Environmental Charter High School. There is an air of excitement. As I peaked into the classrooms, students were busy with various projects. These students know they are making a difference in our world for generations to come. The Green Ambassador Program is comprised of an elective class taught throughout schools in Los Angeles area, Youth Summits, Green Mobile Embassy, Green Adventures and supported by Green Mentors.

Women Ending Hunger

Posted by powerfulmothers

2002, Women’s eNews has honored an awe-inspiring, reader-nominated group of leaders who confront issues of particular relevance to women. Past honorees include Nobel Peace Prize laureate and 1991 Africa Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, Swanee Hunt and Abigail Disney. Joan is being recognized this year as one of the “seven who topple tyrannies.” Joan took on one of the most pervasive, entrenched and debilitating tyrannies: patriarchy - a belief system . . . that deems women inferior.

She transformed all of The Hunger Project’s programs and created ground-breaking initiatives to empower women as the key change agents for the end of hunger. She is now regarded as the foremost expert on and advocate for women and the end of hunger.In the 1990s, there was virtually no information on women and their pivotal role in ending hunger. Joan broke through this wall of silence that shrouds women, their lives and their contributions. She began this journey in 1997 on a flight to India, when she reached into her carry-on and pulled out “The Asian Enigma,” a UNICEF report. Joan couldn’t believe what she read and reread - that the high rates of malnutrition of children in South Asia resulted from gender inequality. And, as they say, the rest is history.

Joan’s 10-year journey to discover the truth regarding women and the end of hunger began. She met with leaders throughout the developing world - from the grass roots to national governments. In Rajasthan, India, she met with nine top women leaders and advocates. Joan was shocked to learn about the cradle-to-grave discrimination against women. In this historic meeting, Joan became clear about the undeniable link between women’s low status and the persistence of hunger.In Bhopal, Joan met with women newly elected to panchayats - local government - who were desperate to make a difference in their communities, but saw themselves as their husbands’ puppets with no voice of their own. Joan was deeply moved by the women, and made a commitment that these women - and all women in the developing world - would have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.

She transformed all of The Hunger Project’s work in India and created the Women’s Leadership Workshop to empower grassroots women to be effective leaders in their panchayats. More than 65,000 women have taken the workshop.Joan then investigated the situation in Africa, and uncovered the little-known fact that African women produce 80 percent of the continent’s food with virtually no support. To make their heroic contribution widely known, Joan created the African Woman Food Farmer Initiative to bring the women out of the shadows and into visibility, and to empower them through small loans and training. More than US$5 million in loans have been made to 63,000 women. Joan also confronted the devastation of HIV/AIDS and saw the impact that gender has on the crisis. Joan then created - with experts from eight African countries - the HIV/AIDS and Gender Inequality Workshop. Thus far, 450,000 women and men have taken this workshop.

Since 2002, Women’s eNews has honored an awe-inspiring, reader-nominated group of leaders who confront issues of particular relevance to women. Past honorees include Nobel Peace Prize laureate and 1991 Africa Prize laureate Wangari Maathai, Swanee Hunt and Abigail Disney. Joan is being recognized this year as one of the “seven who topple tyrannies.” Joan took on one of the most pervasive, entrenched and debilitating tyrannies: patriarchy - a belief system . . . that deems women inferior. She transformed all of The Hunger Project’s programs and created ground-breaking initiatives to empower women as the key change agents for the end of hunger. She is now regarded as the foremost expert on and advocate for women and the end of hunger.In the 1990s, there was virtually no information on women and their pivotal role in ending hunger.

Joan broke through this wall of silence that shrouds women, their lives and their contributions. She began this journey in 1997 on a flight to India, when she reached into her carry-on and pulled out “The Asian Enigma,” a UNICEF report. Joan couldn’t believe what she read and reread - that the high rates of malnutrition of children in South Asia resulted from gender inequality. And, as they say, the rest is history. Joan’s 10-year journey to discover the truth regarding women and the end of hunger began. She met with leaders throughout the developing world - from the grass roots to national governments. In Rajasthan, India, she met with nine top women leaders and advocates. Joan was shocked to learn about the cradle-to-grave discrimination against women. In this historic meeting, Joan became clear about the undeniable link between women’s low status and the persistence of hunger.

In Bhopal, Joan met with women newly elected to panchayats - local government - who were desperate to make a difference in their communities, but saw themselves as their husbands’ puppets with no voice of their own. Joan was deeply moved by the women, and made a commitment that these women - and all women in the developing world - would have a voice in decisions that affect their lives. She transformed all of The Hunger Project’s work in India and created the Women’s Leadership Workshop to empower grassroots women to be effective leaders in their panchayats. More than 65,000 women have taken the workshop.Joan then investigated the situation in Africa, and uncovered the little-known fact that African women produce 80 percent of the continent’s food with virtually no support. To make their heroic contribution widely known, Joan created the African Woman Food Farmer Initiative to bring the women out of the shadows and into visibility, and to empower them through small loans and training. More than US$5 million in loans have been made to 63,000 women. Joan also confronted the devastation of HIV/AIDS and saw the impact that gender has on the crisis. Joan then created - with experts from eight African countries - the HIV/AIDS and Gender Inequality Workshop. Thus far, 450,000 women and men have taken this workshop.

In 2000, a standoff took place between Joan and representatives of the media in Rajasthan. They wanted to interview Joan but not the panchayat women whom they deemed inferior. This altercation inspired Joan to create the Sarojini Naidu Prize, which rewards reporters who positively cover the accomplishments of panchayat women. Now, reporters and their top articles are honored at a prestigious national prize ceremony.In Bangladesh, Joan worked with local Hunger Project leaders to ensure greater gender equity, so that instead of 5 percent, women now constitute 40 percent of our 110,000 animators. During a village visit, she saw little boys playing. But little girls were nowhere in sight - they were inside working alongside their mothers.

Joan found it heartbreaking that the mistreatment began so early - even depriving girls of their childhood. In response, she created National Girl Child Day - a nationwide celebration that recognizes and honors the value of girls. In 2007, more than 2,000 events were held. All during this time, Joan created opportunities for Hunger Project investors to come to know the lives of the women in the developing world. She asked the investors, who are among the most educated and financially blessed people, to embrace as equal citizens these oppressed, disempowered and marginalized women. The investors responded enthusiastically and invested their financial resources to empower their sisters in the developing world.In the international community,

Joan became the voice for the women of the developing world. She ensured that the importance and contribution of women was potently included in the work of the UN Millennium Project’s Hunger Task Force. She also advocated for the women of the developing world through international conferences, speeches and testimonies to U.S. congressional committees. Through her work, millions of women are finding their voice and having their critical and extraordinary contribution to the well-being of society recognized. Women’s eNews is the definitive source of substantive news - unavailable anywhere else - covering issues of particular concern to women and providing women’s perspectives on public policy. An independent news agency, Women’s eNews, and its editor-in-chief Rita Henley Jensen, have won 27 awards over the past six years. Women’s eNews has been widely tapped by other media from coast to coast and around the globe, from such leading media outlets as The New York Times, PBS, The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and the Chicago Tribune among others.

COME CELEBRATE JOAN!
Joan will be honored at the Women’s eNews benefit gala to honor 21 women leaders, in New York City on Wednesday, 21 May. We invite you to join us in celebrating her! Ticket costs begin at US$500 (US$350 of which is tax-deductible). Please visit www.womensenews.org to make a reservation!

BREAKING NEWS!
Joan will be interviewed in April by Dr. Mehmet Oz on the Oprah and Friends Network Channel on XM Satellite Radio. Stay tuned for more details on www.thp.org.

NEW MEMBERS OF THE GLOBAL BOARD
In December 2007, Joan Holmes and Sheree S. Stomberg (head of Operations and Technology at Citi Global Wealth Management in New York) were elected to The Hunger Project’s Global Board of Directors.

JOAN’S FOCUS IN 2008: BORDERS AND BARNES & NOBLE - GET THE SHELVES READY!
Joan Holmes is currently writing a book that tells her personal story of the extraordinary 10-year odyssey she took through South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. The reader will meet many of the people Joan has met along the way, including the Senegalese food farmer whose hands and face revealed a lifetime of unrelenting drudgery, the little girl in Kolkata (Calcutta) whose joie de vivre stole Joan’s heart, the top nine Indian women leaders and activists who played a fundamental role in opening Joan’s eyes to conditions of women in India, and the Bangladeshi woman who shared with Joan some of her most painful experiences. With Joan guiding the way, the reader will remove the veils shrouding the oppression, disempowerment and marginalization of women in the developing world. And, like Joan, the reader will come to understand that the women of the developing world must be set free and empowered if we are to live in a world where there is greater social justice and basic needs for all are met.

American Gladiators Wants YOU!

Jason and training partner Mike O' Hearn - "Titan"

Feeling fit? Feeling healthy? Feeling strong? American Gladiators wants you. We were contacted by Los Angeles Fitness Trainer Jason Kozma.

Here's a note from Jason:

American Gladiators called me up and is looking for clients of mine who have lost a signifigant amount of weight to compete on the show! If you think you've got the right stuff to go up against the gladiators, call Lyndsey at American Gladiators at (818) 755-8737. Tell them I sent you. Good luck!

The Perfect Pair - Black & White Designer Handbags

There's nothing more constant than black and white fashion accessories. No matter what you wear or how you feel, something in black or white fits the look and the mood. Just like peanut butter and jelly, black and white prevail when it comes to fashion. No matter what't happening in the fashion scene, you can always depend upon black and white. Your little black dress is complimented by a black and white bag. Your white summer frock is easily accented with a black or white accessory. We believe in versatility, color and style. But, when it comes to the bare necessities we recommend black and white anytime of the year and anywhere you go. Black and white designer handbags make a statement and the right impression.

Visit these links to see a variety of designer handbags with price-points we can smile about... you can't afford not to take a look!

Click here for Bally Handbags - A whole new collection just added of Bally designer handbags and accessories at very affordable price points. Bally leather tote bags, handbags and shoulder bags. Plus, a group of small Bally leather goods include wallets, pouches and travel accessories.

Click here for Melie Bianco Handbags - A variety of synthetic leather handbags in styles, colors and designs everyone loves. Melie Bianco takes the best from the best and makes handbags we can afford.

Click here for MURVAL Handbags - The new Spring Collection just added just-in-time and just for you. Check it out. New arrivals added weekly. Directly from Paris, the Murval quilted collection is a designer winner.

Save this link ..... new items arriving throughout the coming weeks.

glow Magazine's Annual Spa Guide Answers all Your Pampering Needs

from newswire Canada

TORONTO, March 17 /CNW/ - Put some spring into your season with glow's annual spa guide. glow, Canada's premier beauty and health magazine, has tracked down the top spas in Canada - from trendy celeb hot spots to romantic getaways. "Whatever makes your 'must-have' list, we've found it!" says Beth Thompson, editor-in-chief. In the April issue of glow, you'll find ten fabulous pages of spas, complete with contact information and preferred services as experienced first-hand by glow editors and contributors. Find the April issue of glow on select newsstands today.

Glow's Annual Spa Guide:

Best City Spa: Health Winds Health and Wellness Spa, Toronto, Ontario
Best Romantic Getaway: Wakefield Mill Inn&Spa, Wakefield, QC
Best Celeb Spotting: Absolute Spa, Century Plaza Hotel, Vancouver
Best Holistic Spa: Satori Urban Wellness, Toronto
Best European Influence: Valmont Beauty Lounge, Montreal
Best Green Spa: 889 Yonge, Toronto
Best Local Flavour: Relais Santé le Baluchon, Auberge le Baluchon, Saint-Paulin, QC.
Best Anti-Aging Facial: The Spa at the Old Mill, Toronto
Best Pregnancy Pampering: Clarins Skin Spa, Toronto
Best Innovation: Susurrus Spa, Poets Cove Resort & Spa, Pender Island, B.C.

Targeted to women 18-49, glow and its French counterpart pure are Canada's definitive guides to beauty and health. Brimming with ideas, insights and inspiration glow and pure give women the tools they need to be beautiful - surface to soul. Both magazines explore style options, interpret beauty trends and bring clarity to health and wellness issues. glow, published eight times per year, and pure, published six times per year, have a combined circulation of over 400,000. glow, glow health, teen glow and glow.ca are flagship members of Rogers Publishing Limited.

Restoration, Revitalization, Renewal:Spa Samadhi at Santa Fe's Premier Eco Resort,Sunrise Springs Resort Spa

from etravel blackboard

Nestled in the lush La Cienega Valley–just minutes from the shopping and culture of Santa Fe's historic downtown plaza–is a restorative retreat dedicated to nurturing body and soul: Spa Samadhi.

Samadhi is a Sanskrit word referring to the state of pure bliss that can be actualized through breathing deeply and living mindfully, and the philosophy guiding Spa Samadhi is one of healing from the inside out.

All elements are conceived with that vision in mind. Spa treatments are conducted in private rooms with windows that provide soft natural light, some with pond-side views, while sounds of nature mingle with the soothing scents of aromatherapy. Guests are provided with spa robes and sandals, and invited to unwind in the Relaxation Lounge, where they can enjoy fresh fruit and hot tea. Cedar sauna and outdoor hot tubs provide rest and relaxation.

Spa Samadhi boasts an exceptional range of intuitive and innovative bodywork, with a group of transformational treatments taking center stage.

Explore yourself through Holographic Therapy (which helps integrate the different levels of consciousness) and Medicine Helper (a deeply healing treatment for trauma that incorporates elements of Native American healing traditions, bodywork, fresh herbs from the property's heirloom gardens, traditional song, and prayer).

Other transformative treatments offered by Spa Samadhi:

Natural Medicine
Bartenieff Fundamentals: Movement Re-Education
Craniosacral Therapy
Polarity Therapy
Lymphatic Release
Intuitive Readings
Sound Healing
Reiki

The spa uses locally made, wild-harvested, organic wellness products, as well as the Naturopathica line. Indulge in one of Spa Samadhi's many rejuvenating treatments'a Cherry Blossom Regenerative Facial or a Hot Stone Massage featuring a blend of white pine, sage, and pink peppercorn oils.

Sunrise Springs Resort Spa is also a thriving center for the contemplative arts, featuring diverse ways to integrate mind, body, and spirit. Sages Art Center offers custom private or group instruction to enhance your getaway–from cooking classes and Tai chi to Chinese brushwork and Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging).

The resort maintains a dedication to the well being of visitors. The exquisite 70-acre property's tranquil walking paths, spring-fed ponds, and graceful cottonwoods offer visitors a myriad of ways to rediscover themselves. Respect for the environment manifests itself in the resort's commitment to sustainability.

Sleep Health at Vacation Spas May be more Important than Massages, Facials, Manicures/Pedicures, Diet or even Exercise!

by Susie Ellis

The importance of sleep is something that has been on our SpaFinder top 10 spa trends list for the past two years. In 2007 the focus was on adding sleep health to diet and exercise as an equally (if not more) important pillar of health in spas. In 2008, because of the growing research which shows sleep deprivation is linked to obesity, emphasizing sleep health in weight-loss programs at spas was the focus.

Tonight's piece on CBS's 60 Minutes made these points clearer through video than I ever could in writing. I hope everyone who didn't see it would watch it. A new thing I learned is that it appears we can add diabetes to the long list of consequences of sleep deprivation.

Sometimes I think that sleep health is my mantra. And for this upcoming week - it is no exception. Here is why.... I was thinking this morning about the volatile financial market situation we witnessed last Friday and how this might affect the spa industry. And what advice I might give.

I remember the October 1997 stock market plunge (which was later called Black Monday) and ever since have been aware that bad news at the end of a week might result in even worse news on Mondays. It just makes sense to me that after a weekend when people kind of regroup, they begin thinking about their personal financial situation and start taking steps toward self preservation. Too many people making financial moves all at once on a Monday can spell disaster.

Of course, I hope that I am wrong. My advice, however, for both spa consumers as well as the spa industry would be the same - be extra careful to get enough sleep. Dealing with challenges wisely necessitates clear thinking and emotional balance. Eating well is a good idea, exercising helps, however getting healthy and adequate amounts of sleep is possibly even more important. If you aren't convinced, please do me (and yourself) a favor, and watch The Science of Sleep Part 1 and Part 2 from last night's 60 Minutes.

Well...am off to bed.

Some Natural Anxiety Cures Worth Trying

By Mark Thompson & Kerris Samson

Anxiety can have a detrimental effect on a person’s life. Not only can a person suffer from high blood pressure, they will find that the sleep very poorly and may suddenly start to gain weight rapidly. Luckily, there are things that one can do in order to beat anxiety through using only natural ingredients. Most natural anxiety cures are herbal based, but using certain vitamin and mineral extracts can help bring the condition under control.

However, you need to be wary of what you purchase as a great many of these as they are not regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) as other conventional medications are. Yet despite this there have been clinical trials carried out although these are not regulated by the FDA and have helped to show that there are several proven natural cures for anxiety now available.

One herbal remedy which has been found to be effective in not just treating anxiety but also sleeping disorders such as insomnia is Valerian Root. This particular herb contains properties which help a person to relax and comes either in capsule or tincture form. Normally one can get the capsules in sizes from 50 milligram up to 500 milligram and how much one takes will depend on the severity of their condition. Along with helping a person to relax the properties in Valerian Root also help in reducing a person’s stress levels therefore reducing the chances of an anxiety attack occurring.

While some medications can take days to build up in your system, many users feel that Valerian has an almost immediate effect, though most people say it will take as long as thirty minutes to an hour for full potency.

When you are looking to buy any kind of herbal remedy for treating anxiety you should read the products label carefully and find out what ingredients it contains. If you can purchase those which contain extract of passion fruit flower in them as this contains a chemical known as vitexin. This chemical along with having anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties also has properties which can help to relieve tension.

Of all the natural anxiety cures now available this is one that is widely available. However, if you are having difficulty in getting supplies from your local health food store then there are plenty of places where you will be able to purchase it online.

If you would rather prepare your own natural herbal cure for anxiety at home it is a good idea to talk the matter through with your doctor first. There are some herbal remedies which may not actually be suitable for you and could lead to unwanted side effects. For instance some people find it difficult to take Valerian Root and could lead to them suffering from night terrors and/or abdominal pains.

Before you start using any kind of herbal based remedy for treating anxiety speak with your doctor to find out just how safe they are. Also you need to find out from your doctor that if you choose to take these along with any other medication that you are currently taking what affect they may have on them. Finally, it is crucial that when choosing any kinds of natural anxiety cures to use to treat your condition you look carefully at the ingredients each one contains. Plus you look just how much of each ingredient they contain as this will effect just how effective they are at treating the condition.

For Beginners: Anjali Mudra

By Shiva Rea

Anjali means "offering," and in India this mudra is often accompanied by the word "namaste."

If you have attended even one yoga class, it is a familiar gesture: the drawing together of one's palms at the heart. Your teacher may bring his or her hands together while saying "Namaste" at the beginning or end of a class. You may find his gesture within certain asanas—in Tadasana (Mountain Pose), before you begin Sun Salutations, or in balance poses such as Vrksasana (Tree Pose).

This sacred hand position, called anjali mudra (AHN-jah-lee MOO-dra), is found throughout Asia and has become synonymous with our images of the East, from the smiling face of the Dalai Lama peering over his fingertips to images of devotees before a Hindu or Buddhist altar.

In the West, we translate this gesture as a posture of prayer. Because we have grown up with this gesture as part of our culture, each of us probably has our own personal connection to this mudra—positive or negative. Some of us may find a subconscious resistance to bringing our hands together as if it were a sign of submission. However, the beauty of this gesture, which positions us right at the core of our being, is timeless and universal.

I know a 3-year-old who is delighted to greet people this way and an actor who prepares himself with this gesture before entering the stage. As we explore the significance and potential of this mudra, be open to your own experience and ways that this simple yet powerful hand position can be a practical tool in your practice and daily life. In Sanskrit, mudra means "seal" or "sign" and refers not only to sacred hand gestures but also whole body positions that elicit a certain inner state or symbolize a particular meaning.

Anjali mudra is but one of thousands of types of mudras that are used in Hindu rituals, classical dance, and yoga. Anjali itself means "offering," and in India this mudra is often accompanied by the word "namaste" (or "namaskar," depending on one's dialect). As the consummate Indian greeting, like a sacred hello, namaste is often translated as "I bow to the divinity within you from the divinity within me." This salutation is at the essence of the yogic practice of seeing the Divine within all of creation. Hence, this gesture is offered equally to temple deities, teachers, family, friends, strangers, and before sacred rivers and trees. Anjali mudra is used as a posture of composure, of returning to one's heart, whether you are greeting someone or saying goodbye, initiating or completing an action.

As you bring your hands together at your center, you are literally connecting the right and left hemispheres of your brain. This is the yogic process of unification, the yoking of our active and receptive natures. In the yogic view of the body, the energetic or spiritual heart is visualized as a lotus at the center of the chest. Anjali mudra nourishes this lotus heart with awareness, gently encouraging it to open as water and light do a flower.

Begin by coming into a comfortable sitting position like Sukhasana (Easy Pose). Lengthen your spine out of your pelvis and extend the back of your neck by dropping your chin slightly in. Now, with open palms, slowly draw your hands together at the center of your chest as if to gather all of your resources into your heart. Repeat that movement several times, contemplating your own metaphors for bringing the right and left side of yourself—masculine and feminine, logic and intuition, strength and tenderness—into wholeness.

Now, to reveal how potent the placement of your hands at your heart can be, try shifting your hands to one side or the other of your midline and pause there for a moment. Don't you feel slightly off kilter? Now shift back to center and notice how satisfying the center line is, like a magnet pulling you into your core. Gently touch your thumbs into your sternum (the bony plate at the center of the rib cage) as if you were ringing the bell to open the door to your heart. Broaden your shoulder blades to spread your chest open from the inside. Feel space under your armpits as you bring your elbows into alignment with your wrists. Stay here for some time and take in your experience. What initial shifts of consciousness do you experience? Is there a change in your mood?

Now imagine that you are beginning your yoga practice—or any activity in which you want to be centered and conscious of how your inner state will affect the outcome of your experience. Take anjali mudra again, but this time slightly part your palms as if to make a cup, so that your hands resemble the bud of a lotus flower. Depending on your spiritual orientation, you can metaphorically plant a seed prayer, affirmation, or quality such as "peace," "clarity," or "vitality" within your anjali mudra. Drop your chin towards your chest and awaken a sense of humility and awe with which to begin your practice, as if waiting to receive a blessing of good things to come. It is important that this anjali or offering be true to your Self as that will be the most effective and uplifting for you. Traditionally, yogis might visualize their ishta devata or personal connection to God within the shrine of their hands. For some people this may be a sacred mountain, for others, Jesus, Krishna, or the Mother Goddess. Align your mind (awareness), feeling (heart), and actions (body) within this gesture. When you feel your invocation is complete, draw your fingertips to the center of your forehead, ajna chakra, and pause there feeling the calming effect of your touch. Bring your hands back to your center to ground your intention within your heart.

From here you can begin your yoga asanas, meditation, or any activity from a place of connectedness. Notice how much easier it is to be present and joyous with whatever you are doing. Look for other times to integrate anjali mudra into your practice and life. Besides the beginning and end of your yoga sessions, anjali mudra can be used within the Sun Salutations and many other asanas as a way to come back to and maintain your center. When your hands come together overhead in Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I) or in Tree Pose, this is still anjali mudra. Consciously connecting this upward movement of your hands through an invisible line of energy to your heart will help your posture and your inner attitude.

In daily life, this prayerful gesture can be used as a way of bridging inner and outer experience, when saying grace before meals, communicating our truth within a relationship, or as a means of cooling the fires of stress when feeling rushed or reactionary. Anjali mudra is an age-old means of helping human beings to remember the gift of life and to use it wisely.

Shiva Rea teaches flow (vinyasa) based yoga integrating alignment and intuition, strength and fluidity, meditation and wisdom in action at Sacred Movement in Santa Monica, California, and UCLA's World Arts and Cultures Program. She is the author of the home practice CD, Yoga Sanctuary (Sounds True), and leads workshops and adventure retreats worldwide. Visit Shiva at shivarea.com.

Pamper Yourself at Starfish Spa

from Cayman Net News

Owner Sharleen Duval (left), shown here with therapist Nadia Dipchand, invites everyone to rejuvenate, revitalize, refresh, renew and relax at Starfish Spa. Nothing spells star treatment like Starfish Spa. Located just along Seven Mile Beach at Comfort Suites, Starfish Spa already feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Treat yourself with facials that restore beauty, massages that rejuvenate muscles, body treatments that revitalize your glow and other salon services that renew and refresh, all expertly administered by the Starfish therapists who know their clients by name.

Experience the luxuries of royalty without breaking your budget. Whether you book an appointment for a midweek 30-minute Take-a-break Massage or a leisurely 60-minute Vitamin Facial for the weekend, you are sure to enjoy being enveloped in the family-oriented, soothing and comforting environment that is Starfish.

Affiliated with the local favourite, Posh Spa Lounge on Walkers Road, Starfish upholds the same brand of excellence and yet, takes the spa experience to a whole new level, thanks to the amenities offered at Comfort Suites.

Because Starfish is situated next to the hotel’s pool and bar, guests have the privilege of hosting spa parties while relaxing poolside with their cocktails. There’s certainly nothing like spending an evening or a day with friends while pampering yourself. Starfish offers the most exclusive gift of all…the gift of time for yourself spent with friends!

What’s more…as an introductory special, clients have the opportunity to win a night’s accommodation in a Deluxe Studio Suite courtesy of Comfort Suites plus a luxurious spa package. Head down to Starfish Spa and register for your chance to win!

CA Spa Resort - Sage Spa at Morongo Casino and Resort.

The Desert Heat Therapy Cocoon or the Algae Oasis Detox Wrap.

by Spavelous

I felt very much like the butter inside a hot iron skillet. All the knots and aches in my muscles instantly turned into goo as the massage therapist rubbed smooth warm stones all over my body. After 80 minutes, I felt relaxed, transformed, blissed out. I could have been a million miles from home. In reality, I was just a quick drive away at Morongo Casino and Resort.

I was initially skeptical when my girlfriends planned a short spa vacation in Cabazon. It can’t truly be a getaway if we’re just down the highway, I thought. And how relaxing could a casino spa really be? I pictured it as slot machines clanging right next to the massage table. But I was so wrong.

Sage Spa at Morongo is one of the nicer spas I’ve ever visited. It’s not opulent enough to intimidate, but it’s not too casual either. The facility is small, but it’s chic and quiet and pampering, which is everything a spa should be. It’s a good opportunity to turn your phone off, step away from the computer and focus on yourself.

There’s been a trend lately with spa treatments going beyond relaxation, leaning more toward overall wellness. That’s certainly what Sage is doing too, offering a number of detoxifying and anti-aging therapies. (Recommended: The Desert Heat Therapy Cocoon or the Algae Oasis Detox Wrap.) But the very best thing about the spa at Morongo? It’s far enough that you can feel like you’ve been completely away from it all, without actually leaving.

More proof yoga good for your heart

from Yoga Journal

According to Reuters, recent studies conducted in Sweden and India show that yoga can reverse biochemical changes associated with high blood pressure, obesity, and high blood sugar. Waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and triglycerides were significantly lower, and "good" HDL cholesterol levels were higher in the yoga group as compared to a control group, report researchers in the journal Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. Have you reversed a heart disease risk factor with yoga alone?

Pure Yoga coming to America

from Yoga Journal

Hong Kong-based Pure Yoga, in conjunction with Equinox fitness clubs, is planning on opening studios in the U.S., the first one in Manhattan, reports New York magazine: "The new club will be 'design and amenity driven,' which means the usual Equinox high-end gloss, five rooms simultaneously offering classes in different styles, and an emphasis on customer service, including the ability to book the exact floor space for your mat online." Has anyone had any previous experience with Pure Yoga?

Yoga Girl takes it to the streets of SF

from Yoga Journal

If you live in San Francisco, you may have seen or heard about Tamara Standard (aka Yoga Girl) teaching yoga on the tough streets of the Tenderloin and Mission districts in an effort to bring yoga to people who might not have the opportunity to explore it. “My purpose in the Tenderloin has been to be an initiator into experiencing a new level of consciousness. It’s a privilege and a honor to share this unity,” she explains. You can watch Tamara at www.yogagirlsf.com. Let us know about other people practicing unique forms of karma yoga, or selfless service.

Opra loves Yogitoes Skidless Mat Towel

Yogitoes Skidless ® Towel
Enhance your practice - Choose colors
from Santosha

The Skidless ® towel from Yogitoes is an absolute yoga necessity. It's designed specifically for yoga practice to prevent slipping. It's lightweight, super-absorbent, and accented with tiny clear rubber dots which grip to your yoga mat, enabling you to have a steadier practice so you can revel in the full experience of being present. It has the added benefits of putting a hygienic layer between you and your yoga mat (making this ideal on top of a borrowed mat, bare floors, etc.) as well as heightening awareness of weight distribution between hands, fingers, feet, and toes. Truly a multi purpose tool, you can even use the reverse side to stimulate pressure points on both the hands and feet.

Yogitoes were featured in O, the Oprah magazine - June, 2006. Heres what Oprah had to say about the Yogitoes Skidless Towel:

"Using the yoga mat at a gym is like using the blanket on a plane: A whole lot of people have been there first. Yuck! This mat cover is an excellent solution."
- Oprah

These towels measure 24" wide and 68" long (same as a standard yoga mat)

Scandinavian-style spas envigorate, not pamper

Le Scandinave Spa in Collingwood, Ont., has three hot baths like this one and three cold baths — and winter guests are expected to plunge into both.

By Michele Peterson - SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

COLLINGWOOD, Ont. — Team fist-fighting, log jousting and snowball throwing. It’s puzzling why so many northern winter traditions seem to involve pain. So it should come as no surprise that painfully cold water is an important part of an authentic Nordic spa experience.

“Increasing your heart rate is invigorating,” explained Lee-Anne Thomsen as we stood overlooking the nearly 50 acres of ice-laden forest, outdoor baths and countryside. Although it would be easy to imagine this was Finland or Russia, we were actually at Le Scandinave Spa, where Thomsen is the guest services supervisor. The $6.5 million facility is two hours north of Toronto on the outskirts of the town of Collingwood, a growing hub for winter recreation on the southern shore of Georgian Bay.

Incorporated in 1858, the town was once an important center for railway and shipping traffic, and later shipbuilding. Many of the largest vessels sailing the Great Lakes were launched from Collingwood’s harbor, with steamers bound for Chicago and Milwaukee as well as Western Canada.

Today, it’s possible to see the architectural legacy of that proud marine history within the restored downtown district, recognized on theC a nadian Register of Historic Places. After a period of economic decline during the last century, the town reinvented itself to capitalize on its waterfront location and has evolved to become one of Ontario’s most popular four-season tourist centers.

Situated at the foothills of Blue Mountain, Ontario’s highest ski hill, the town is ideally positioned for outdoor winter adventure. Alpine skiing, snowboarding and tubing are popular options at nearby Village at Blue Mountain, an upscale Intrawest resort community also offering a range of cosmopolitan dining and entertainment for the apres ski crowd. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy snowshoeing through the area’s wilderness trails or hiking across southern Ontario’s longest suspension footbridge at the Scenic Caves, a spectacular natural cave and cliff formation atop the Niagara Escarpment.

The newest outdoor experience, the Nordic spa, has been designed to capitalize on the area’s natural beauty. Set amid a quiet forest, it is Canada’s second Le Scandinave Spa. Despite the word “spa” in the name, don’t expect pampering or coddling. “This is a serious detoxification experience,” explained Thomsen. At the heart of the spa’s philosophy is the belief that a sequence of hot, cold and relaxation periods provides health benefits unavailable by simply floating in a hot tub.

“We recommend spending 12-15 minutes in a hot bath, steam or sauna room to open the pores and rid the body of toxins,” explained Henderson. “That should be followed by a cold plunge or icy shower to rinse away impurities and improve circulation. Finally, there should be 15 minutes in a relaxation solarium.”

To deter guests who might be tempted to skip a step, a laminated map of the spa facility and outline of the suggested bathing sequence are provided at check-in. The largest outdoor Nordic bath in Canada, it offers more than 25,000 square feet of spa activity and boasts three hot baths (including a waterfall), a Norwegian-style indoor steam room, a Finnish sauna and three cold plunge pools (including an icy Nordic waterfall). Yoga and pilates classes are also available on a drop-in basis.

The experience is not for those in a hurry. The sequence, which should be repeated five times for optimal benefit, takes about 2z hours to complete. Swaddled in the plush white towel supplied upon check-in, I scurried across the heated stone walkway to the closest hot outdoor pool, the Mountain View Bath, to begin. As steam rose from the 102 degree sapphire blue waters, it cooled in the frigid air and misted my face like a refreshing Evian spray. Although my ears felt like popsicles, the warm water was so relaxing I was tempted to remain submerged for the rest of the day, gazing at the snow-clad Blue Mountains.

A squeal from a guest jumping into a plunge pool reminded me this was supposed to be therapeutic. Deciding to ease into the full-body cold water experience, I headed to the hot 99-degree waterfall. Sliding behind a steaming waterfall, I was soon out of sight and basking in my own secluded alcove. “Don’t forget to plunge,” shouted a nearby spa technician as he adjusted the cold baths.

Obligingly, I made an effort, admittedly more sparrow-in-a-puddle than a true plunge. Although 41 degrees may feel balmy when you’re out walking the dog, it feels positively polar when you’re clad in only a bathing suit and flip-flops. Fortunately, it was time for my massage appointment so I headed to the massage pavilion. Much like the Russian banya or Finnish communal bath where bathers beat each other with birch branches for exfoliation, the emphasis at Le Scandinave is on the therapeutic. You won’t find rose petals or aromatherapy treatments here.

“We are focused on what we do best,” spa co-owner Mylisa Henderson explained. This meant a no-nonsense Swedish massage for me. Before long, I was in a room fragrant with cedar, being pummelled, kneaded and manipulated by the capable hands of Andrea, one of the spa’s 28 registered massage therapists.

Afterward, it felt as though I’d been working out at the gym — minus the effort. I headed to the secluded Forest Hot Bath to unwind. Billowing waves of steam rolled across the water’s surface and disappeared into a forest of towering birch trees. With the aroma of wood smoke from a nearby fire pit, I could almost imagine a troika, the Russian horse-drawn sled, gliding by.

When the winter sun emerged from behind the clouds, I decided it was time to take the cold water plunge. The shock was surprisingly invigorating and I had to admit that the complete Nordic bath experience did chase away the wintertime blahs. Although a shot of vodka and a fur hat would have been nice.

If you go Le Scandinave Spa is located at 152 Grey Road, 21, Collingwood, Ont. All-day access to baths is ($42). Services such as a 60-minute Swedish massage ($112), Hot Stone or Thai-yoga ($160) include bath access and must be booked in advance. Guests must be 19 years or older.

The Importance of Self Care for Health and Stress Management

Take Care of Yourself: You Deserve It!
By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com

Many of us have so many responsibilities in life that we forget to take care of ourselves. And while it’s hard to prioritize something like taking a bath when you have so many other priorities in life, self care is an important aspect of stress management. A massage, soak in the tub or other forms of pampering revitalize you inside and out. And taking time out to treat your body like the temple it is has other benefits:

Self Care and You Physical Health:
While self-pampering doesn’t always lead to major improvements in overall health the way healthy diet and exercise do, the relaxation you get from it can trigger the relaxation response, which can prevent chronic stress from damaging your health, so in a sense, self-care is good for you inside and out.

Self Care and Your Emotional Health:
Taking time out to care for yourself can remind you and others that you and your needs are important, too. Having a well-cared-for body can make you feel good about yourself and your life, and conveys to others that you value yourself. This can contribute to long-term feelings of wellbeing.

Self Care Makes You a Better Caretaker:
People who neglect their own needs and forget to nurture themselves are at danger of deeper levels of unhappiness, low self-esteem and feelings of resentment. Also, sometimes people who spend their time only taking care of others can be at risk for getting burned out on all the giving, which makes it more difficult to care for others or themselves. Taking time to care for yourself regularly can make you a better caretaker for others.

Taking a few hours for a spa experience and some much-deserved self care is also an effective way to manage stress for the following reasons:

A Break from Stress:
Taking a break amidst a tub of warm bubbles or under the warm hands of an experienced masseuse can help you feel like you’re escaping a stressful reality and taking a mental and emotional vacation. As I mentioned, it triggers the , and allows you to come back to the reality of your life feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Time Alone:
While different people have varying degrees of introversion and extroversion, having some time along is important for most people’s functioning. When you’re relaxing by yourself, it’s much easier to slip into a state of quiet meditation, enjoy some self-reflection, or let your problems work themselves out in the back of your mind, without taking all of your focused concentration.

Soothing Feelings:
Giving your body some special treatment is a natural way to relieve stress. Other than keeping your skin soft and your body in good repair, spa-related activities like massage and warm baths have been known to sooth even small colicky babies like nothing else. Such activities continue to be effective tools for relaxation as we get older, but we sometimes forget to utilize them.

Once you’ve decided it’s time to start nurturing yourself and your body with some spa treatments, be sure to block off some time where you won’t be interrupted. Then you can put on some soothing music, and try some or all of the following suggestions:

Take a Bath: Get out the bubbles, oils and scented soaps, and soak until you’re wrinkled.

Deep-Condition Your Hair: While you’re in the tub, put on a deep-conditioning treatment for your hair, and let it work as you relax.

Deep-Clean Your Pores: With a nice clay masque, you can draw impurities out of your skin and stress out of your system.

Care For Your Feet: After you soak your feet to soften calloused skin, use a pumice stone to slough off dead skin, and finish with a rich foot cream, and perhaps polish.

Nourish Your Skin: Rich, luxurious creams smell wonderful and feel smooth, especially if you exfoliate your skin in the tub before putting them on.

Tend to Your Nails: Correct the beating your nails probably take from your busy life (especially for those of you who bite your nails!) by filing and buffing. A coat of polish on can make you feel like a princess for days afterward. (This is probably more for my female readers.)

Get a Massage: This one can be especially nice. If your budget doesn’t allow for regular massages with a professional, see if you can trade with a friend or your spouse, or use an electronic massager.

In addition to pampering yourself, more substantial forms of self care involving healthy lifestyle choices are important, too. Consuming a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and being sure you get enough sleep are all important for long term health and stress management as well.

Coversations with Monique Guild-The B 52's & Madonna

Coversations with Monique Guild-The B 52's & Madonna

Sharing is a process we use to keep things alive. We hope you enjoy Monique's conversation with Michael Rosenblatt.

from YouTube & MoniqueGuild.com

Monique Guild is a Business Intuitive who has been instrumental in helping people define and attain their business goals. In her no-nonsense style, Monique:

• Evaluates you/your business/project/product
• 'Sees' and pinpoints your blocks
• Isolates issues keeping you from achieving success
• Raises your business or career up to the next level.

Monique helps you to:

• Set Goals
• Push through Blocks
• Trust your Intuition
• Create an Action Plan

Monique "sees" why a person's career, business, project or product is stuck in neutral and is able to help turn the energy around so that the company or individual attracts a different circumstance, thereby prospering.

Monique has over thirteen years experience as a successful businesswoman with companies such as Showtime Networks (Marketing Division), Great Expectations (National Director of Success Stories), MacClaine Enterprises, Playboy Entertainment, and Finale Post Production.

Getting Started

Contact Monique via email -- monique@moniqueguild.com -- or by telephone at 310-589-1958 to answer any questions you might have, to request a brochure, or to discuss making an appointment for your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Business Intuitive?
I am a Business Consultant but, I have an extra advantage because I am able to see where a person, project or business gets stuck or blocked. I get the age and the experience that happened to the person that caused them to become blocked in their business now. I provide insights that pinpoint blocks such as grief, resentment and negative thinking that keep you from achieving your highest business potential. And I am able to see the gift where the individual is capable of going. I then work with the energy of the person and help turn things around so that they begin to attract a different circumstance.

Can you help me if I am transitioning or moving up to another level?
I am able to help with the transition and I am able to see any potential blocks that may cause you to become stuck in the transition or in the process of going to another level.

Do you have a business background?
Yes. I have an extensive business background. Some of the companies I have worked with are Showtime Networks. I was Assistant Marketing Co-coordinator, in which I ran 130 cable affiliates across the nation for Showtime to make sure that they were promoting the Company properly. I was National Director of Success Stories for Great Expectations, the video dating service. I placed clients in media events nationwide, whether it was print or television such as the Oprah Winfrey Show. The Los Angeles Times ran a feature article on Great Expectations and me. I've been a General Office Manager of a post production facility called Finale. And I worked for Shirley MacLaine. We were like the nucleus between her books, publicist, agents and shows.

Do you meet with clients in person or do you speak with them over the phone?
I can go to your company, we can meet at my office or we can speak over the phone. Every consultation is taped. You keep the tape.

What is a typical session like?
You walk in the door and I immediately begin to 'see' pictures and I have a knowing. I go over the reasons for the block, or how to bring your business up to the next level. I will also, discuss with you individuals that you may be working with or partnering with. The session is taped. You go home with the tape. And you also, will go home with homework.

What happens after the session? When do I see you again?
You decide. Clients work with me one-on-one or they may decide to join a workshop. If they are willing to do the homework things turn around for them very quickly. Most people who see me are ready for a change and are ready to do the work. So, we make another appointment at that point. Or you may want to take one of my workshops because it is a very inexpensive way to see me once a week for eight weeks.

You are also known as a wealth builder. What does that mean ?
I work with very successful individuals and businesses. I am able to help all businesses and individuals become even more successful.

Will you see clients who are 'stuck' in their life and just dont know why?
Yes, I do meet with clients that are feeling stuck and don’t know why. People have also referred to me as a Life Coach. I believe it is the personal stuff that gets the business stuff blocked.

What types of clients have you worked with?
To mention a few; I have worked with writers that are stuck on their script. I have worked with Producers who want to move their project up to a different level. I've worked with a Doctor who needed to write a book but was stuck. I've helped companies in hiring employees. I've worked with individuals that want to get out of the business they are in but don't know where to go next. I have worked with all types of people in different facets of where they are in business. People who are extremely successful to people whom have no idea what to do next.

Do you consult with people over the phone ?
Yes. I speak with clients all over the nation. When we speak over the phone you can pay in advance by paypal, cashiers check or money order. After the session, I will mail your tape to you.

The Hatha yoga poses incorporated by Bikram.

from Yoga-Videos.com

These are done in order, from left to right, as in reading

Standing Deep Breathing
Half Moon Pose
Awkward Pose
Eagle Pose
Standing Head to Knee Pose
Standing Bow Pulling Pose
Balancing Stick Pose
Balancing Separate Leg Stretching Pose
Triangle Pose
Standing Separate Leg Head to Knee Pose
Tree Pose
Toe Stand Pose
Dead Body Pose
Wind Removing Pose
Sit-Up
Cobra Pose
Locust Pose
Full Locust Pose
Bow Pose
Fixed Firm Pose
Half Tortoise Pose
Camel Pose
Rabbit Pose
Head to Knee / Stretching Pose
Spine Twisting Pose
Blowing in Firm Pose

SUSAN NICHOLS PREVIEW - CEO & Founder of Yogitoes

SUSAN NICHOLS PREVIEW - CEO & Founder of Yogitoes

Add to My Profile More Videos

Description: Susan Nichols, a former toy maker, invented the Skidless Mat after slipping on her regular mat while practicing yoga. As founder and CEO of Yogi Toes, Susan Nichols has ensured that her company is environmentally conscious, using only recycled and sustainable materials and minimal packaging.

New Moon in Pisces

from Yogitoes

Friday, March 7, 2008
9:14am PST
17º 31'

New moons act like laser beams:
The alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth generates a highly concentrated beam of light, and light encodes information. Every new moon offers opportunities for new insights and directions, but this one promises a special download and access to expanded states of consciousness.

Pisces is the last sign in the zodiac, ruler of spirituality, imagination, trust, and mystic awareness, representing the goal of the spiritual journey.....reunion with the Source. Under the influences of this dreamy water sign we discover that

"imagination is more important than knowledge" (spoken by a true Piscean genius Albert Einstein)
and that there are many realities beyond the physical.

What if "life is but a dream?"
What if, during the day we are really in a dream, and in sleep we enter a far greater reality?

For a least one day this month, preferably Friday night, we ask you to consider an exercise that is part of an ancient Tibetan Dream Yoga practice....and a fast way to experience a major shift in consciousness! Imagine that everything you are experiencing is a part of a dream, and consider that whatever you dream while asleep is "real" and see what opens up for you?

Take a little extra time on this new moon to feed your soul. Take a long walk in nature, listen to inspiring music, dance, create art, read poetry, and allow yourself to drift, dream and surrender to the Great Mystery of Life! As you practice this month's asana, child's pose, stimulating the third eye with the color purple, please be open to receiving powerful insights, divine direction, creative inspiration, and mystic awareness!

OM Shanti, Peace

YOGA ASANA:
BALASANA-CHILD'S POSE (bah-LAHS-anna) bala=child, a resting pose.

COLORS:
SKIDLESS in LAVENDER (for RAPE awareness) & SHIVA in PURPLE (6th CHAKRA-the third eye) - for psychic and perception. Purple stimulates: the spleen, a motor nerve/lymphatic and cardiac depressor, nourishes and purifies the blood.

Violet/Purple psychological effects: calming or overcoming the excesses of violent insanity; it is an inspiring and spiritual color. Leonardo da Vinci said" the power of meditation can be ten times greater under violet light falling through the stained glass window of a quiet church." Health issues treated with the color Violet/Purple: Bladder trouble, Bone growth, Cerebro spinal meningitis, Concussion, cramps, Epilepsy, Kidneys, Leucoderma, Mental Disorders, Neuralgia, Nervous disorders, Rheumatism, Sciatica, Scalp diseases, skin, tumors. In Eastern philosophy, violet/purple is the ruler of the center of the head, and this is called the Thousand Petaled Lotus.

HOW TO:
1. Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together and sit on your heels, then separate your knees hip with apart.

2. on an exhale lay your torso down between your thighs. Broaden your sacrum across the back of your pelvis and draw your hip points toward the navel, allowing your belly, inner thighs to melt toward the ground. Lengthen your tailbone away from the back of the pelvis while the base of your skull gently lengthens away from the back of your neck.

3. Lay your hands on the floor alongside of your torso, palms up, releasing the fronts of your shoulders, allowing the weight to widen your shoulder blades across your back.

Length of time:
You can hold BALASANA for any length of time. 3 to 10 minutes is recommended.

Modifications with yogitoes props:
If you have any difficulty bringing your head to the floor, then bring the floor to you by using the ECODOT and/or SHIVA pillow (see photos above). Any concerns of sitting on your heels, then place an ECODOT or a thickly folded blanket between your back thighs and calves.

Intention: Balasana provides the opportunity to consciously breathe fully into the back of the torso. Imagine that each inhalation is expanding and lengthening the spine. With each exhalation release the torso a little more deeply into the fold.

Benefits: Gently stretched the hips, thighs, and ankles. Clams the brain and helps relieve stress and fatigue. Relieves back and neck pain when done with head and torso supported.

Contraindications and Cautions: Diarrhea, Pregnancy

Knee injuries: Avoid Balasana unless you have experienced supervision.

Yoga Defined

from Wikipedia
Picture files from the Wikimedia Commons

Yoga is a group of ancient spiritual practices originating in India. According to Gavin Flood, Academic Director of the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies it has been defined as referring to "technologies or disciplines of asceticism and meditation which are thought to lead to spiritual experience and profound understanding or insight into the nature of existence." Yoga is also intimately connected to the religious beliefs and practices of the other Indian religions.

Outside India, Yoga is mostly associated with the practice of asanas (postures) of Hatha Yoga or as a form of exercise, although it has influenced the entire Indian religions family and other spiritual practices throughout the world. Hindu texts discussing different aspects of yoga include the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Shiva Samhita, and many others.

Major branches of Yoga include: Hatha Yoga, Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga. Raja Yoga, established by the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and known simply as Yoga in the context of Hindu philosophy, is one of the six orthodox (astika) schools of thought.

Etymology
The Sanskrit term yoga has a wide range of different meanings. It is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj, "to control", "to yoke", or "to unite". Common meanings include "joining" or "uniting", and related ideas such as "union" and "conjunction". Another conceptual definition is that of "mode, manner, means" or "expedient, means in general".

Indus Valley seals

History of Yoga
A seal from the Indus Valley Civilization, showing a figure in meditation posture.Several seals discovered at Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1700 BC) sites depict figures in a yoga or meditation like posture. There is considerable evidence to support the idea that the images show "a form of ritual discipline, suggesting a precursor of yoga"[13] according to archaeologist Gregory Possehl. He points to sixteen other specific "yogi glyptics" in the corpus of Mature Harappan artifacts as pointing to Harappan devotion to "ritual discipline and concentration." These images show that the yoga pose "may have been used by deities and humans alike." Possehl suggests that yoga goes back to the Indus Valley Civilization.

The most widely known of these images was named the "Pashupati seal" by its discoverer, John Marshall, who believed that it represented a "proto-Shiva" figure. Many modern authorities discount the idea that this "Pashupati" (Lord of Animals, Sanskrit pasupati) represents a Shiva or Rudra figure. Gavin Flood also characterizes these views as "speculative", saying that it is not clear from the 'Pashupati' seal that the figure is seated in a yoga posture, or that the shape is intended to represent a human figure. Authorities who support the idea that the 'Pashupati' figure shows a figure in a yoga or meditation posture include Archaeologist Jonathan Mark Kenoyer, current Co-director of the Harappa Archaeological Research Project in Pakistan and Indologist Heinrich Zimmer.

In 2007, terracotta seals were discovered in the Cholistan Desert in Pakistan. Punjab University Archaeology Department Chairman Dr. Farzand Masih described one of the seals as similar to the previously discovered Mohenjodaro seals, with three pictographs on one side and a "yogi" on the other side.

Ascetic practices (tapas) are referenced in the Brahma (900 BCE and 500 BCE), early commentaries on the vedas. In the Upanishads, an early reference to meditation is made in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, one of the earliest Upanishads (approx. 900 BCE). The main textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads, (ca. 400 BCE), the Mahabharata (5th c. BCE) including the Bhagavad Gita (ca. 200 BCE), and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (200 BCE-300 CE).

Bhagavad Gita
The Bhagavad Gita ('Song of the Lord'), uses the term yoga extensively in a variety of senses. Of many possible meanings given to the term in the Gita, most emphasis is given to these three:

1. Karma yoga: The yoga of action
2. Bhakti yoga: The yoga of devotion
3. Jnana yoga: The yoga of knowledge

The influential commentator Madhusudana Sarasvati (b. circa 1490) divided the Gita's eighteen chapters into three sections, each of six chapters. According to his method of division the first six chapters deal with Karma yoga, the middle six deal with Bhakti yoga, and the last six deal with Jnana (knowledge). This interpretation has been adopted by some later commentators and rejected by others.

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
In Indian philosophy, Yoga is the name of one of the six orthodox philosophical schools. The Yoga philosophical system is closely allied with the Samkhya school. The Yoga school as expounded by Patanjali accepts the Samkhya psychology and metaphysics, but is more theistic than the Samkhya, as evidenced by the addition of a divine entity to the Samkhya's twenty-five elements of reality. The parallels between Yoga and Samkhya were so close that Max Müller says that "the two philosophies were in popular parlance distinguished from each other as Samkhya with and Samkhya without a Lord...." The intimate relationship between Samkhya and Yoga is explained by Heinrich Zimmer:

These two are regarded in India as twins, the two aspects of a single discipline. Sa?khya provides a basic theoretical exposition of human nature, enumerating and defining its elements, analyzing their manner of co-operation in a state of bondage (bandha), and describing their state of disentanglement or separation in release (mok?a), while Yoga treats specifically of the dynamics of the process for the disentanglement, and outlines practical techniques for the gaining of release, or 'isolation-integration' (kaivalya).

The sage Patanjali is regarded as the founder of the formal Yoga philosophy. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are ascribed to Patanjali, who, may have been, as Max Müller explains, "the author or representative of the Yoga-philosophy without being necessarily the author of the Sutras." Indologist Axel Michaels is dismissive of claims that the work was written by Patanjali, characterizing it instead as a collection of fragments and traditions of texts stemming from the second or third century. Gavin Flood cites a wider period of uncertainty for the composition, between 100 BCE and 500 CE.

Patanjali's yoga is known as Raja yoga, which is a system for control of the mind. Patanjali defines the word "yoga" in his second sutra, which is the definitional sutra for his entire work:

This terse definition hinges on the meaning of three Sanskrit terms. I. K. Taimni translates it as "Yoga is the inhibitionof the modificationsof the mind ". Swami Vivekananda translates the sutra as "Yoga is restraining the mind-stuff (Citta) from taking various forms." Gavin Flood translates the sutra as "yoga is the cessation of mental fluctuations".

A sculpture of a Hindu yogi in the Birla Mandir, DelhiPatanjali's writing also became the basis for a system referred to it as "Ashtanga Yoga" ("Eight-Limbed Yoga"). This eight-limbed concept derived from the 29th Sutra of the 2nd book became a feature of Raja yoga, and is a core characteristic of practically every Raja yoga variation taught today.The Eight Limbs of yoga practice are:

(1) Yama (The five "abstentions"): nonviolence, truth, non-covetousness, chastity, and abstain from attachment to possessions.
(2) Niyama (The five "observances"): purity, contentment, austerities, study, and surrender to god
(3) Asana: Literally means "seat", and in Patanjali's Sutras refers to seated positions used for meditation. Later, with the rise of Hatha yoga, asana came to refer to all the "postures"
(4) Pranayama ("Lengthening Prana"): Prana, life force, or vital energy, particularly, the breath, "ayama", to lengthen or extend
(5) Pratyahara ("Abstraction"): Withdrawal of the sense organs from external objects.
(6) Dharana ("Concentration"): Fixing the attention on a single object
(7) Dhyana ("Meditation"): Intense contemplation of the nature of the object of meditation
(8) Samadhi ("Liberation"): merging consciousness with the object of meditation
They are sometimes divided into the lower and the upper four limbs, the lower ones being parallel to the lower limbs of Hatha Yoga, while the upper ones being specific for the Raja yoga. The upper three limbs practiced simultaneously constitute the Samyama.

It details every aspect of the meditative process, and the preparation for it. The book is available in as many as 40 English translations, both in-print and on-line.

Hatha Yoga Pradipika
Hatha Yoga is a particular system of Yoga described by Yogi Swatmarama, a yogic sage of the 15th century in India, and compiler of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Hatha Yoga is a development of — but also differs substantially from — the Raja Yoga of Patanjali, in that it focuses on shatkarma, the purification of the physical as leading to the purification of the mind (ha), and prana, or vital energy (tha). In contrast, the Raja Yoga posited by Patanjali begins with a purification of the mind (yamas) and spirit (niyamas), then comes to the body via asana (body postures) and pranayama (breath). Hatha yoga contains substantial tantric influence, and marks the first point at which chakras and kundalini were introduced into the yogic canon. Compared to the seated asanas of Patanjali's Raja yoga which were seen largely as a means of preparing for meditation, it also marks the development of asanas as full body 'postures' in the modern sense.

Hatha Yoga in its many modern variations is the style that most people actually associate with the word "Yoga" today. Because its emphasis is on the body through asana and pranayama practice, many western students are satisfied with the physical health and vitality it develops and are not interested in the other six limbs of the complete Hatha yoga teaching, or with the even older Raja Yoga tradition it is based on.

Yoga in other traditions
Yoga is intimately connected to the religious beliefs and practices of the Indian religions.[53] The influence of Yoga is also visible in Buddhism, which is distinguished by its austerities, spiritual exercises, and trance states.

Yogacara Buddhism
Yogacara (Sanskrit: "Practice of Yoga [Union]"), also spelled yogachara, is a school of philosophy and psychology that developed in India during the 4th to 5th centuries. Yogacara received the name as it provided a yoga, a framework for engaging in the practices that lead to the path of the bodhisattva. The Yogacara sect teaches yoga in order to reach enlightenment.

Ch`an (Zen) Buddhism
Zen (the name of which derives from the Sanskrit "dhyana" via the Chinese "ch'an") is a form of Mahayana Buddhism. The Mahayana school of Buddhism is noted for its proximity with Yoga.[55] In the west, Zen is often set alongside Yoga; the two schools of meditation display obvious family resemblances. This phenomenon merits special attention since the Zen Buddhist school of meditation has some of its roots in yogic practices.[61] Certain essential elements of Yoga are important both for Buddhism in general and for Zen in particular.[3]

Tibetan Buddhism
Yoga is central to Tibetan Buddhism. In the Nyingma tradition, practitioners progress to increasingly profound levels of yoga, starting with Maha yoga, continuing to Anu yoga and ultimately undertaking the highest practice, Ati yoga. In the Sarma traditions, the Anuttara yoga class is equivalent. Other tantra yoga practices include a system of 108 bodily postures practiced with breath and heart rhythm. Timing in movement exercises is known as Trul khor or union of moon and sun (channel) prajna energies. The body postures of Tibetan ancient yogis are depicted on the walls of the Dalai Lama's summer temple of Lukhang.

Yoga and Tantra
Tantrism is a practice that is supposed to alter the relation of its practitioners to the ordinary social, religious, and logical reality in which they live. Through Tantric practice an individual perceives reality as maya, illusion, and the individual achieves liberation from it. This particular path to salvation among the several offered by Hinduism, links Tantrism to those practices of Indian religions, such as yoga, meditation, and social renunciation, which are based on temporary or permanent withdrawal from social relationships and modes. During tantric practices and studies, the student is instructed further in meditation technique, particularly chakra meditation. This is often in a limited form in comparison with the way this kind of meditation is known and used by Tantric practitioners and yogis elsewhere, but is more elaborate than the initiate's previous meditation. It is considered to be a kind of Kundalini Yoga for the purpose of moving the Goddess into the chakra located in the "heart," for meditation and worship.

Goal of Yoga
There are numerous opinions on what the goal of Yoga may be. Goals can range from improving health and fitness, to reaching Moksha. Within the monist schools of Advaita Vedanta and Shaivism this perfection takes the form of Moksha, which is a liberation from all worldly suffering and the cycle of birth and death (Samsara) at which point there is a realisation of identity with the Supreme Brahman. For the dualistic bhakti schools of Vaishnavism, bhakti itself is the ultimate goal of the yoga process, wherein perfection culminates in an eternal relationship with Vishnu or one of his associated avatars such as Krishna or Rama.

What's a YOGITOES SHIVA PROP?

YOGITOES SHIVA PROP

yoga shiva prop yogitoes savasana support prop. Yogitoes SHIVA is the first prop designed to give extra support during restorative poses or when practicing savasana. Use YOGITOES SHIVA under you ankle hip knee sacrum or wherever you need extra cushion. Use under your head or neck when practicing savasana. Perfect compact size for travel. Endless ways to use SHIVA. SHIVA Prop size is about 4 x 8 inches. The pillow style cushion is covered in a soft wicking fabric and feels comfortable next to the skin. The fabric absorbs moisture and dries quickly. Available in many colors. Each color sold separately. Great gift idea and stocking stuffer. Use with Yoga or any mat exercise or stretching routine whenever a little more support is needed. Matching Yogitoes towels available. Gift sets also available at a discount price.

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Yogitoes®

from Yogitoes

I was practicing yoga and slipped on a sticky mat, the irony is, they become slippery when wet, Nichols says. It was one of those divine moments. I thought, why doesn't someone design a towel that could fit on your mat- to complete the mat. When I first launched yogitoes® I had two intentions, one that yogitoes supports ALL styles of yoga, and two, was applying the philosophy of community for marketing. yogitoes has grown organically from day one by word-of-mouth only. Bringing the community together-globally.

It's not a towel, it's not a mat, it's a SKIDLESS®,� Nichols explains. Like Kleenex or Levis, SKIDLESS® is a brand that defines itself by its name. The distinctive orange dot serves as the yogitoes® logo.

"Originally I created the dot as my drishti for practice. Then someone said, COOL logo, and I thought- OK, it will be our logo."

"yogitoes® is an orange company,� Nichols explains, Another shade of green. We practice consciousness and altruism in our daily thoughts, actions and company decisions. The world is in a powerful position, it's time to shift into a new paradigm of being, if we want to continue experiencing mother earth and the sacredness of humanity."

Whenever possible, orange practices include selling all products without packaging to minimize waste and utilizing recycled and/or sustainable materials such as soy or vegatable ink and organic dyes. Rather than mass printing hangtags and users guides, recycled tear-outs attached to the products direct the customer to yogitoes.com to view USERS GUIDE. One less catalogue or hang tag means one more tree and one more clean breath,� Nichols says.

In addition, a portion of yogitoes® proceeds goes to the yogitoes® fund, which contributes to programs such as the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, A Place Called Home, and the Ravi Shankar Foundation: which bring love and awareness to children around the world. yogitoes® also supports the Dr. Susan Love Foundation with a limited-edition PINK SKIDLESS; the company raised $15,000 for breast cancer research in 2005 and plans to eclipse that figure in 2006.

yogitoes® continues to expand, with new products, including their patent-pending ECODOT, ySTRAP, mSEAT, along with environmentally-friendly blankets, bolsters, yoga mats and accessories, as well as a children's line.

"By standing in our light, speaking from our love, moving with our grace, together, we can shift the world to a peaceful sacred place.


humanity can bear no less"... yogitoes

Yoga Poses & Yoga Exercises

from YogaWiz

In Sanskrit, the word “pose” is “asana” (pronounced as “ah-sah-nah”).

Each asana helps you become more aware of your body, mind, and environment. While beginning your yoga exercises, experiment with the poses, moving in and out as you feel comfortable. If you approach the poses with playful curiosity, feeling of frustration and competitiveness will not enter your mind. While practicing your yoga exercises, make sure that you don’t feel any discomfort or pain.

Yoga Poses and breathing
Breathing is an essential part of practicing yoga exercises. You should never hold your breathe during a pose. Also make sure that your breath is never forced or strained. Labored breathing is sign that you you’re working too hard and should come out of the pose slightly. When one starts practicing yoga, one can hold for three full breaths through most yoga poses. If you feel comfortable in the pose, hold for longer, if uncomfortable, you should come out of the pose immediately.

Types of Yoga Poses
Seated poses – Seated poses are useful for practicing breathing exercises and relaxation or meditation techniques. Seated poses are also often used as a warm up or as a starting point for other poses. Performing seated poses can help improve your posture and open your hips.

Standing poses – Standing poses are often used as warm up or as a starting point for other poses. Standing poses are beneficial for strengthening your legs, opening your hips and improving your sense of balance.

Inversions – Inversions are excellent poses to perform to improve your blood circulation, quiet your mind and improve your overall health. Inversions are also believed to reverse the ageing process and reduce the effect of the gravity on your body.

Relaxation and restorative poses – It is important to take time to perform relaxation or restorative poses at the end of each yoga practice. You can use this time to relax your body and mind and allow energy released by the poses in your practice to move freely throughout your body.

Counter poses – A counter pose is a pose that stretches your spine in the opposite direction from a previous pose or returns your spine to a neutral position.

Twists – You can perform twists to stretch and strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, increase the flexibility of your spine and improve your circulation. Twists improve the functioning of your internal organs by providing them with a fresh supply of blood as you twist and release your body.

Balancing poses – Balancing poses are great for improving your balance and coordination as well as developing your ability to remain grounded in a pose.

Forward bends – Forward bends stretch the entire back of your body, especially your hamstrings. Forward bends are also often used to release tension, calm your mind and soothe your nervous system. Similar to back bends, forward bends help keep your spine strong and supple.

Back bends – Back bends are among the most challenging poses in yoga. Bending backward helps strength your back and keep your spine strong and supple. Back bends also open the front of your body, especially your chest.

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