The perfect and most advisable time to do Yoga is early in the morning. Yoga can be done at any time of the day, but we benefit the most when we do it in the morning. Early morning practice is also one of the best ways to start off our day and we continue to enjoy the relaxing and rejuvenating after effects, the whole day.
In the morning, the body is stiffer but the mind is clearer. A stiff body and a clear mind can work very well together for Yoga practice. A clear and fresh mind is a fundamental element in the practice of Yoga. With a mind rested from sleep a deep state of awareness is possible and the mental clarity lowers the potential risk of injury. Even though the body is stiffer we are less likely to overdo and overextend ourselves. Heightened awareness will make our practice more meditative and therefore will increase the benefit of Yoga.
Some of the benefits of Early Morning Yoga
Exercising early is the only way to ensure that other chores that come up during the day won't keep us from missing our practice
Research has shown that exercise increases mental sharpness for 4 to 10 hours post exercise
Exercising in the morning gives us more energy for the rest of the day.
We build our strength and stamina
Deep stretching and muscle opening helps us feel more flexible
Doing Yoga in the morning regulates our appetite for the day, making us less hungry.
Yoga practice stimulates our metabolism
We gain better focus and concentration during the day
Overwhelming experience of calm and peace stay for the whole day
As a result of our early morning Yoga practice we start our day energized, grounded and feeling good. In Bliss Yoga Studio we prepared early morning Yoga Intensives Monday-Friday 7am-8am. The next one is Yoga for Core Strength and it starts on July 27- July 31. There is also a couple of Deep Stretch Yoga early morning intensives scheduled for August. For more information please check out our website www.blissyogastudio.net.
During puberty and later teen years, immense changes are taking place in the body's chemistry and physiology. It is often showed in rebellion and mood swings. The regular practice of yoga can help teens maintain body balance and keep the spirit strong and healthy.
Some of the physical benefits of Yoga for Teens are: STRENGTH - builds strength of muscles and bones.
FLEXIBILITY - lengthens muscles to increase mobility in the joints
IMPROVED POSTURE - develops understanding of body mechanics, healthy
movement patterns, and ideal postural alignment.
ABILITY TO RELAX - develops the skill of non-action and the awareness
to physically relax.
BREATH AWARENESS - draws attention to the breath as a reflection of
state of mind and as a tool to elicit relaxation and focus.
STABILITY AND BALANCE - provides physical experiences that ask the body
to continually re-establish balance, which develops coordination and
prevents injury.
EQUALIZES ENERGY - revitalizes low energy and tempers hyperactivity.
Some of the mental benefits of Yoga for Teens: STRESS- MANAGEMENT - allows teens to experience a sense of space around
their concerns (including what others think) and provides techniques for redirecting thoughts and calming the nervous system.
IMPROVED DECISION MAKING - teaches teens to make choices that respect
themselves and others.
HEALTHY BODY IMAGE - provides a strengthened internal perspective; helps self-image develop free of media and other cultural influences.
ACCEPTANCE - cultivates gratitude for what the body can do; enables letting go of the tendency to be critical of one's self and judgmental of others.
CURIOSITY - provides a healthy way to experiment, take risks, and explore the body.
In Bliss Yoga Studio we have designed two workshops for teens over the summer: the week of July 20-24, and the week of August 10-14. Both workshops are every day for a week, Monday- Friday, 10:00-11:00am and the cost per workshop is $70. Please register early to save your spot.
Is insomnia depleting you of the energy you need to be productive and enjoy your day? Do you feel stressed, tired and agitated? If you are the one of many people suffering from lack of sleep you might want to try Yoga Nidra practice.
The practice of Yoga Nidra - Conscious
Sleep has provided an effective relief from stress for many people. It is a guided meditation practiced by lying down on the Yoga mat or by sitting in the chair.
There are many benefits of Yoga Nidra:
* It relaxes us mentally and physically
* A profoundly relaxed state helps our muscles and the whole body re-learn how to rest and recharge
* Deep mental relaxation provides an antidote to excessive worrying and anxiety
* By being relaxed, we become receptive and more positive
* With continued practice we reach an aspect of ourselves that is always calm, joyful and powerful. We become confident and trusting.
Andrew Kun has prepared a five week workshop starting on Friday July 10th at 7:30pm. The classes are held once a week and they are an hour long. Come and see how deep relaxation is a skill to attain and how after each class you will feel more open, balanced and in peace.
Prana is the life force permeating every atom in the universe. Apana is eliminating energy. In our physical body, prana has upward movement and apana downward movement. Both energies operate on gross and subtle levels to remove negative energy and waste. In our energetic body we have 72000 currents or nadis which start from Navel Point and end in our hands and feet. Three nadis are the most important: Ida, Pingala and Shushumna. Ida goes from the left nostril to the base of the spine and it represents negatively charged energy - apana or lunar energy which eliminates body wastes and has a calming, cooling and restorative effect upon the body and mind. Pingala goes from the right nostril to the base of the spine and carries the positively charged energy - prana which has an energizing and heat producing effect on the body and mind. Shushumna or Silver Cord goes from the base of the spine all the way up through the center of the spine to the top of the head. Through Shushumna nadi Kundalini energy rises.
To keep our body healthy and in balance we need to keep those energy channels clean. Through inhalation and retention, we direct prana into the navel, through exhalation and retention we direct apana into the navel. The meeting and uniting of the two forces in the Navel Point creates tremendous heat in the navel - not hot heat, but white heat. This causes Kundalini energy to raise - our through potential.
The first law of thermodynamics states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed, but rather, it can be changed from one form to another. The same is with Kundalini energy - in order to flow, certain blockages and impurities in the nerves have to be removed and the channels must be cleansed. We can do that through the various poses, the power of the breath and mantra. Through the regular practice of Yoga all our bodies: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual become strong, healthy and in balance. Especially during summer time, cleansing is enhanced due to increase in body temperature. Join some of our workshops and classes to detoxify your body and increase your prana - your life force. Come and experience how after just one class, your energy and awareness can change, and how regular practice can turn you into a new, powerful and aware person.
Another season change - summer is finally here! We can spend more time outside, our bodies can be uncovered after many months of layered clothing and we think of beach and swimming again. What a great time to do more Yoga!
In the hot summer months the best practice of Yoga is in the morning or in the evening when the air is cool. Any physical practice increases body temperature. Yoga is known for having many techniques to bring the body back to balanced state. One of the ways to cool down body temperature is with Sitali Pranayam (cool breathing technique):
Sit comfortably in a chair or cross legged on the floor. Stick your tongue out and fold your tongue like a spoon. Breathe in through the mouth (through the folded tongue or between your tongue and the upper palette), hold the breath in and slowly exhale through your nose. You can repeat this pranayam five to ten times.
This technique cools down the body and helps quench the thirst. It also helps to release anger and remove fever. It is very powerful if it is practiced in the morning to calm your mind for the day.
While the world is full of fear and stress, headlines shout pandemic and economic crisis', the only way we can help ourselves is to stand back and ask questions: how will what I read in newspapers, watch on TV or Internet help me? How will it make my day happy and peaceful? What can I do for myself to feel supported, relaxed and strong?
Since ancient times Yogic tools are used for releasing shock, trauma and stress. It is known that breathing exercises can change our psyche in minutes. Meditations strengthen, concentrate and focus our mind. In this newsletter we are recommending Kundalini Yoga Meditation that can greatly help for stress or sudden shock:
Sit with your spine straight. Relax the arms down with the elbows bent. Draw the forearms in toward each other until the hands meet in front of the body about 1 inch above the navel. Point both palms up and rest the right hand in the palm of the left hand. Pull the thumbs toward the body and press the thumb tips together. Look at the tip of your nose. Deeply inhale and completely exhale as you chant the following mantra in a monotone:
SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM WAHAY GUROO
SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM WAHAY GUROO
SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM SAT NAAM WAHAY GUROO
The entire mantra must be chanted on only 1 breath. Use the tip of the tongue to pronounce each word exactly. Begin with 3 minutes and slowly build up to 11 minutes.
Upon completion of the meditation deeply inhale and completely exhale 5 times. Then deeply inhale, hold the breath and stretch the arms up over the head as high as possible. Stretch with every ounce that you can muster. Exhale and relax down. Repeat twice.
In Bliss Yoga Studio we design our classes and workshops to create healing from the inside out, becoming positive, open and flexible human beings. We use the knowledge of Yoga to create powerful coping skills to deal with the external world. Come and experience how after just one class, your energy and awareness can change, and how regular practice can turn you into a new, powerful and aware person.
Wonderful and fun, great food, long laughs, strong connections and very relaxed and open atmosphere - Chutneys Restaurant, Bliss Yoga Studio Holiday Party for teachers and staff. Thank you all for coming and celebrating the holiday season. Blessings abound.
Bliss Yoga Studio Kundalini Yoga Retreat, 7-9 Novemebr, 2008
“You can never get rid of your fear, you can never get rid of your pain, doesn’t matter what effort you make, until you have the guts to forgive yourself. Just forgive yourself.” Yogi Bhajan
The culmination point of our powerful and transformative November Yoga retreat was Conscious Re-birthing meditation. Since a lot of students asked for the transcript of this meditation, in this blog we offer the instructions:
Cross your hands over your heart center, right over left. Open your mouth and breath heavily through your throat with your eyes closed. You can make a sound of ocean waves while you breathe, listen and connect. Go deep. 7 minutes.
Lie down in Baby (Child) Pose. Meditate on all elementary pain your felt in your mother’s womb and let it go. 1 ½ minutes. For the final 3 minutes, mentally re-experience the moment of your birth.
Stay in Babay Pose and go into a deep nap. 2 Minutes. To finish: inhale deeply and hold your breath for 1 minute as you pump your navel. Feel beautiful and feel as you have a tremendous amount of bright light in your head. Exhale. Inhale and hold your breath for 15 seconds as you pump your navel. Relax.
Slowly rise up into sitting position. Chant Wahe Guru Jio for 8 ½ minutes.
To finish, inhale and hold your breath as long as you comfortably can, concentrating at the brow point. Bless yourself with the light of God. Use this light to rebuild and resurrect yourself. Exhale. Repeat this sequence two more times.
During the first nine months of life when we are in the womb of the mother, we unconsciously pick fears that become part of our personality. This conscious re-birthing kriya helps us to overcome these fears, to recognize and accept them. And this powerful awareness and acceptance will help us to act and speak from our heart creating a great, complete and contended human being
SAT NAM!
Click on the picture gallery to se more pictures from our retreat.
Please take a look how simple Yoga poses can help to relax your body and prepare the environment for conception (just press on the title to follow the link).
Kundalini Yoga Retreat August 15-17, 2008 - Regenerate, Rejuvenate, Renew
Summer at Saha Yoga... Lots of Sun, yoga, walking and swimming, refreshing light vegan summer food, healing energies and open heart atmosphere. New friendships and complete relaxation. What more to say?
To see our picture gallery please go on our retreat page.
Spiritual Psychotherapy: a helping hand on the path to peace. By: Mary Delle Donne
If you are reading this magazine, or have ventured to read this article, chances are that you are on a spiritual path. The essence of spirituality is the search to know our true self, to discover the real nature of consciousness. Presently, the spiritual journey manifests itself in many forms. Some practice a formal religion, some yoga, others meditate and many are involved in various forms of spiritual or holistic modalities. All of these practices encourage us to connect to ourselves on a deeper level. Essentially, any practice that encourages us to reflect on our – self is spiritual practice. The abundance in choice of spiritual practices in our day and age is a blessing because it offers the individual an opportunity to find practices that truly suit them. This leads us to the question: What happens when we connect with our-self and we don’t like what we experience, come in contact with our darkness or are simply confused? Many find themselves in a state of shock – wondering why they ever ventured on this path and yet knowing that it was inevitable. This perhaps was the evolution of a form of therapy known as Spiritual Psychotherapy.
What is Spiritual Psychotherapy?
Spiritual Psychotherapy is a form of counseling. This form of therapy honours our soul-guided spiritual journey and our sometimes ego-driven human experience. Spiritual Psychotherapy is the practice of learning, through a variety of practical tools, that everything we experience in life is designed for self-realization. In a Spiritual Psychotherapy session, you will experience a variety of therapeutic techniques such as, traditional dialogue, guided imagery, body-talk, chakra exploration and more. You will develop tools designed to build your self-esteem, develop a healthy ego, establish boundaries and get needs met. Beyond this, Spiritual Psychotherapy also offers the experience of rising above ordinary consciousness, acknowledging miracles and mystical experiences. Each session is client centered and may be different depending on one’s current experience.
Why choose Spiritual Psychotherapy?
As we travel down our spiritual path one constant obstacle is our ever-present human and spiritual duality and the desire to have them co exist. This is possible and important to discover for spiritual maturity. When our practice uncovers areas in need of emotional healing, we as humans embark on a journey of self-discovery. Spiritual Psychotherapy helps to create a bridge from this place of obscurity. Since our spiritual practices are already encouraging growth, these sessions provide guidance in achieving spiritual maturity. It helps us to face the chaos, make connections, reveal patterns and create change in thought and behaviour. When we are truly on a spiritual path we need to be open to this process of self-discovery to achieve healing and inner peace thus making the human experience a spiritual one. A Spiritual Psychotherapist acts as a spiritual mentor who can validate your current experience, offer tools for change and be a witness to your transformation.
How do you choose a Spiritual Psychotherapist?
When choosing a Spiritual Psychotherapist, it is important that they have graduated from a reputable school that trains students in this form of therapy. An R.I.H.R. Designation (Registered In Human Relations) issued by the Canadian Examining Board usually signifies that a therapist has completed the course requirements for this practice. Those whom study this form of therapy and graduate have themselves embarked on a journey of self discovery and most often are required to do many hours of this form of therapy.
It is also important to choose a Spiritual Psychotherapist that you can connect with. Phoning a few therapists and asking for a brief conversation to see if you connect is acceptable practice. Perhaps even booking sessions with a few therapists and experiencing their energy is a great investment in finding the right therapist for your journey.
The rates for a Spiritual Psychotherapist range from $75 to $200 per session. The price of a session does not necessarily reflect superiority because the greatest impact of this work has its roots in the connection you make with your therapist. It is important to note that while efforts are being made to change this, this form of therapy is generally not recognized by the insurance industry and is therefore in many cases not covered. Having revealed that, many spiritual practices are not covered by insurance. So then it becomes a choice to invest in our own growth by stepping outside of the contained industry and on to our own path of healing.
Whichever path you choose, whatever spiritual practice you select remember to embrace the darkness as part of your path and let it lead you to a deeper connection with yourself. And if the journey becomes too difficult and you are in need of assistance know that there is a form of healing such a Spiritual Psychotherapy that honours your path.
Yoga for Fertility and the Mind-Body Connection By: Mary Delle Donne
Recently, some of my friends, acquaintances and students have been faced with fertility challenges. I have become increasingly curious about the rise in occurrence of infertility. Chances are you probably know someone or are experiencing the same thing. We are living in a chaotic world and we are all in some capacity participating in a busy cycle of career and lifestyle. As we move along this busy path, many people are finding that when they finally do want to have a child, it is not without its challenges. This encouraged me to look to my passion, Yoga, to see if this wonderful practice could offer any light to this current health issue. I pleasantly discovered, like it does with so many other areas of life, Yoga could help with infertility. I also discovered that there are many fertility treatments available and a simple search on the Internet will reveal the numerous options available. With so many experiencing the harsh reality of infertility, they find themselves further stressed with the onset of these treatments, out of control and loosing trust in their very own body. This is where Yoga can help and many are turning to Yoga and Mind-Body Programs for assistance on their reproductive journey because it offers a holistic option even if used in conjunction with various medical treatments.
How can Yoga assist fertility?
Yoga is an integral approach to health. The practice influences the whole being including body, mind and spirit. It is because of this that Yoga can be a support for conception. The science of Yoga and its healing benefits have been around for over 5,000 years. At the core of Yoga is the intent to relax and through relaxation the Yogi’s have believed, for many years, that the body has the potential to heal and return to balance. The most pervasive fertility challenge is stress, caused by our busy lives or by the inability to get pregnant. This emotion generates a reaction in the body that creates a less hospitable environment for a new life. So when the instruction to women is to relax, it is foreign and yet another task added to their overloaded schedules. For many women the concept of deep relaxation is obscure. With such busy lives achieving this state of equilibrium takes quite a bit of unwinding. When you practice Yoga it directly impacts the nervous system, which creates a relaxation response. This relaxation has a dramatic effect on the body and when this happens the body sends in signals to balance and heal. A Yoga practice can be an effective method of achieving and increasing an overall sense of release and relaxation that can be carried into your lifestyle.
Yoga is especially effective when practiced as part of a Mind-Body program focused on fertility. Mind-Body programs usually include a combination of therapies such as Yoga, meditation, breath-work and interpersonal therapies including individual counselling and peer groups. Current research is revealing that women who suffer from infertility and participate in Mind-Body programs show an increase in fertility rate. In recent studies Journal of the American Medical Women’s (1999) & Journal Fertility and Sterility (2000) conducted at Harvard Medical School, 185 women who had been trying to conceive for one to two years were randomly placed into either a ten week Mind-Body group, a ten week support group, or a routine care control group. The birth rates during the one-year follow-up period were as follows: Mind-Body – 55%, support group 54%, and controls 20%. In addition, the Mind-Body patients reported significantly greater psychological improvements than the support or control patients. As a result of this we do know that there is a positive relationship between participating in Mind-Body programs and achieving a successful pregnancy
Tami Rankin, B.A., M.Ed. a Therapist and Personal Coach, has a focus on women’s issues in her practice and knows from personal experience the journey to fertility. When asked Tami shared “Current research is telling us that women who suffer from infertility and who participate in Mind-Body programs show an increase in fertility rate. Being more centered and present in your life experience of infertility is what reduces the stress and anxiety associated with it”. Through her own personal research she believes Yoga to be an important part of a Mind-Body program. This concept of approaching infertility from our lifestyle is what encourages the success of reproductive techniques and encourages a healthy pregnancy and post pregnancy journey. In the fall, Tami will be partnering with a group of Mind-Body professionals, such as myself, to offer a unique 10-week Mind-Body Program focusing on fertility. For more information please visit Tami’s web site at www.therapyforwomen.ca.
Benefits of Yoga for Fertility:
When looking at Yoga specifically, the following are the benefits and advantages to including this practice into your fertility program.
Yoga may:
Reduce stress and relax the nervous system encouraging a positive environment for conception. The practice activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which encourages a relaxation response in the body.
Open subtle energy channels. The second chakra is believed in the Yoga tradition to be the energy centre associated with conception and fertility.
Deepen the awareness of your body. This gives a greater sense of control over your body.
Balance the body, mind and spirit. This balance improves body alignment, mental balance, encourages a positive attitude and reduces anxiety.
Improve circulation. Improved circulation is especially important for improving fertility because the increased blood circulation ensures that sufficient oxygen and nutrients reach the reproductive organs; improved blood circulation also increases overall energy and stamina.
Softens the abdominal areas and removes tension from around the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This provides an opportunity for this area to be fully functional.
If you choose to include Yoga as a part of a Mind-Body approach to fertility, or you simply choose to add it to your lifestyle to assist on your journey to pregnancy, be sure to choose a gentle style of Yoga. Also, both partners should get a go-ahead from their health care professional as to whether a Yoga practice is suitable.
As I read over the endless amounts of information to write this article I found myself searching for a silver lining, a lighter note. While I did not find many positive reasons for infertility my thoughts are that perhaps this increase in fertility challenge is not to be seen as a burden - but as a blessing as it seems to encourage women to slow down, reconnect with their bodies and grow personally. I see this as a huge advantage to the children being born into these families because the celebration of their arrivals will be felt throughout their lifetime and having parents who have grown from the experience will impact their lives immensely.
Weekend Yoga retreats are great escapes from a busy and stressful everyday life into relaxation and deserved calm and peace. Kundalini Yoga is a transformational practice and during longer classes of Yoga and meditation we purify our body and mind, balance our emotions and achieve states of greater awareness. And that is the best gift we can give to ourselves.
Another great retreat at Saha Yoga centre - Love, Friendship, Great Food, Fun and Relaxation
To see more pictures from the retreat please go to the retreat page.
We were blessed to have the White Tantric course organized again in Toronto on Sat May 11th, 2008. Participants came from many cities across Canada and US. It was eight hours of group meditation, powerful cleansing, socializing and fun. The food was great and the organizers, the facilitator and the monitors have done an excellent job so that we can all enjoy and deeply experience our transformation of consciousness.
Yogi Bhajan, the Mahan Tantric Master, was the first one to teach White Tantric Yoga publicly. Before him it was a secret practice and only initiated and chosen ones could practiced it. This is what he said about the White Tantric practice:
“The subtle body of the Mahan Tantric lives, as an everlasting factual fact. Why is it so? It is a privilege to tune into it. It is surprising to me that people do not understand the simple formula of how the Subtle Body works. The Subtle Body gives the opportunity to understand and master the subtlety of life. It can help you to understand what is going on around you. Basically you have to understand that electricity is created by rotation and cross-rotation of the electromagnetic field and this filed works from one place to another. It means there is no distance. That’s the principle behind wireless telephones.
That is why, with my life time I am trying to educate you – because there can only be one Mahan Tantric and God knows on whom this crown shall be bestowed- or whether will be or not. To protect you, to save you, and make you understand, I am using a very attained power of mine as Mahan Tantric and Master of Kundalini Yoga. I am mixing both. Because ordinarily, Kundalini Yoga could not be taught openly and freely to all people, all the time. A person, had to qualify, initiate himself, come out to perfection – and come to meet the Master. If the Master qualified him, then he gave him the kriya or sadhana to practice. But I openly taught it and survived, so I feel God is very kind and merciful to me…”
“Understanding the nature of the Subtle Body gave us the thought about the nature of the tantric energy. We cannot stop the Tantric energy; we want to enrich ourselves; we want to grow; and we want to progress. That’s why we started using wireless telephone method- through the video courses. Whenever you will come to these courses, through the television, you’ll go through the energy, but your Subtle body will tune in with my Subtle Body.
So death for that purpose will never, ever mean a thing. But for those who shall believe that I am dead, I shall be dead for them. And for those who shell believe, I live a hundred times more powerfully, stronger in them than they have ever experienced. With these words I would like to tell you that we have an everlasting, loving, beautiful relationship, here, hereafter, unto infinity, and even beyond that. Believe me. Even if you can’t believe it, it is true.”
Once more, our Bliss gang got together for the Tantric course. Enjoy the photos provided to us by David Aleksis.
The following is an excellent article on the difference between aloneness and lonliness by Osho - the great spiritual teacher. It shows how in the midst of loneliness we can actually find our presence and bliss.
Aloneness is the first lesson of Love
Without the other we don't know who we are, we lose our identity. The other becomes a mirror and we can see our faces in it. Without the other we are suddenly thrown to ourselves.We are greatly inconvenienced because we don't know who we are when we are alone. With the other, things are clear, defined. We know the name, we know the form, we know the person — Hindu, Christian, Indian, American — there are some ways to define the other How to define yourself?
Deep down there is an abyss... undefinable emptiness. You start merging into that. It creates fear. You become frightened. You want to rush towards the other. The other helps you to remain out. When there is nobody you are simply left with your emptiness. Nobody wants to be alone. The greatest fear in the world is to be left alone. People do a thousand and one things just not to be left alone.You imitate your neighbors so you are just like them.
You lose your individuality, you lose your uniqueness, you just become imitators, because otherwise, you will be left alone. You become part of a crowd, a church, an organization. Somehow you want to merge with a crowd where you can feel at ease, so that you are not alone.To be alone is really the greatest miracle. That means now you don't belong to any church or organization, you don't belong to any theology or ideology — socialist, communist, fascist, Hindu, Christian, Jain, Buddhist — you don't belong, you simply are.
And you have learnt how to love your indefinable, ineffable reality. You have come to know how to be with yourself.
Loneliness is absence of the other
Loneliness is absence of the other. Aloneness is the presence of oneself. Aloneness is very positive. It is an overflowing presence.You are so full of presence that you can fill the whole universe with your presence and there is no need for anybody. If the whole world disappears this zen master will not miss anything; he will be as happy as ever. He will love that tremendous emptiness, this pure infinity.He will not miss anything because he has arrived home. He knows that he himself is enough unto himself.
This does not mean that a man who has become enlightened and has come home does not live with others. In fact, only he is capable of being with others. Because he is capable of being with himself he becomes capable of being with others. If you are not capable of being with yourself, how can you be capable of being with others?A man who loves his aloneness is capable of love, and a man who feels loneliness is incapable of love. A man who is happy with himself is full of love, flowing.
He does not need anybody's love, hence he can give. When you are in need how can you give? You are a beggar. And when you can give, much love comes towards you. It is a natural response. The first lesson of love is to learn how to be alone. Try it, to have the feel. Just sit alone sometimes. That's what meditation is all about — just sitting alone, doing nothing.
If you start feeling lonely then there is something missing in your being, then you have not been able yet to understand who you are.Then go deeper into this loneliness until you come to a layer when suddenly loneliness transforms itself into aloneness. Loneliness is the negative aspect of aloneness.If you go deeper into it one moment is bound to come when suddenly you will start feeling the positive aspect of it. Because both aspects are always together.
Excerpted from The Discipline of Transcendence, courtesy Osho International Foundation. www.osho.com
1. Responsibility
The first step to achieve the state of emotional balance is to take responsibility for our negative and toxic emotions and feelings. Waiting for somebody or something to change so that our misery could be taken away could leave us waiting forever. When we take responsibility we become in charge of our own mind and body. We consciously choose to transform and open the door for something new to arrive.
2. Self Observance
We need to inspect and neutrally observe what arises in our mind, what emotion we experience in the moment. The more we feel it the more we get in touch with our emotion. Starting from the top one, for example like I’m depressed, we need to go deeper, penetrating all those layers of feelings below depression and define each state like sadness, anger, fear etc. The more states we discover the better picture we would have about the structure of our emotional neurology.
3. Creative Expression
When we identify our strongest negative emotion, we need to find a way to express it. Any way or medium is good for it. We could paint, play or compose music, dance, write… By expressing ourselves we shift to the present moment where everything comes back into balance – it’s a key to transformation. It helps us to accept what we feel and what we are.
4. Sharing
Sharing our emotions and our creative expressions forms unbreakable relationships and connects us on a deeper level to our loved ones. Even if we are single we can choose friends, relatives, even plants or animals, spirit guides, Universe or God to share our deepest feelings and discoveries about them.
5. Release
Lastly, we need to let our negative emotions go. We can create a ritual to burn them in the fire, to flush them away with water, to release them with the wind or to let them fly up on a balloon…As negative emotions disolve in space we should celebrate - we can have a massage, go for a nice dinner or do something we have never done before.
Living in awarness is a path to love and happiness.
***************** We are what we think.
All that we are arises with our thoughts.
With our thoughts we make the world.
Speak or act with an impure mind
And Trouble will follow you
As the wheel follows the ox that draws the cart.
We are what we think.
All that we are arises with our thoughts.
With our thoughts we make the world.
Speak or act with a pure mind
and happiness will follow you
As your shadow, unshakable.
"Look how he abused me and beat me,
How he threw me down and robbed me."
Live with such thoughts and you live in hate.
"Look how he abused me and beat me,
How he threw me down and robbed me."
Abandon such thoughts, and live in love.
Buddha
Manifestation is a complex process. It involves being attuned to Universal forces and flowing harmoniously with them. If we are not properly aligned with powerful and intelligent Universal energy it is very hard to manifest anything. The proper alignment is a state of being. We need to be present in our physical realm, to be conscious of our body energies and to be grounded and connected to Earth element. We also have to feel comfortable with our creativity by expressing our emotions freely and uniquely. And lastly, we need to feel inner power of our core energy. We need to master our navel point (2-3 inches below our belly button) to feel self-contained and self-assured. In Kundalini Yoga this is a process of cleansing our lower triangle – our first three energy centers and moving the energy down.
This process isn’t comfortable at all especially because it’s not easy to feel the deep forgotten pain, strong feelings, and fears we try to get away from. But without conscious effort and change there is no way to move forward. If we don’t change we will always be and have what we used to be and have.
Consistency, continuity and discipline are the most important. Regular practice is what makes things happen. If you want fast change, the practice should be stronger and persistent. Then, the habits, beliefs and behaviors change.
Being present is like living in the state of awareness. We need to know our deepest emotions and feelings to be able to transform them for our own benefit. Every time when we feel that something is not right and that our energy is depleting, we should stop and check out what is going on inside. Neutral observance of our inner states will always bring us to our senses and our body sensations (moving our energy inward and down).
Usually people ask: how come some who are less intelligent than me are able to get what they want, or people who I don’t respect and who do bad things are getting rich. Intelligence and ethical behavior have nothing to do with the process of manifestation. Notice what those people do and how they think. Do they ever sabotage themselves? Are they passionate about their work? Would they do it all day and all night if they had to do it? Would they go beyond themselves and their thinking to get what they want? Are they happy? Are they aware?
Being open, aligned and aware from moment to moment brings peace. Being focused, creative and passionate brings things into manifestation. Being grateful and in service brings true happiness and fulfillment.
Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you truly love ~ Rumi
“We are entering the Age of Aquarius on November 11, 2012. It will be a new time. The entire psyche is changing. You must purify the mind, body and soul to be real, innocent, and sattvic (pure). Elevate yourself to be angelic. This age which you will serve is an age of awareness and experience.”
Yogi Bhajan
Yogi Bhajan, the master of Kundalini Yoga, taught about the new age coming up soon. It’s not only by him - according to the Mayan Calendar there is no time after 2012. So, something is going to happen, and we should definitely be aware and prepared for it.
According to Yogi Bhajan, we are now in the cusp period of the old Piscean age. In this age we are severely tested on many levels: personal, social, economical and geographical. The mind and vibration are changing fast and that is why we’ll have the perception that time is speeding up. The characteristics of the Piscean age were that it was male dominated, hierarchical organization, information was very hard to obtain, lots of secrets and lies, machine ruled and ego oriented.
The new age as Yogi Bhajan spoke would be completely different, mostly female dominated, information would be available everywhere thus there would be no secrets and it would have a flat organization. The New Aquarian Age will be ruled by awareness, intuition, wisdom and experience.
Yogi Bhajan gave 5 sutras to help us transition into the Aquarian age a bit more gently:
1. Understand through compassion, otherwise, you will misunderstand the times.
2. Recognize the other person is you.
3. When the time is on you, start and the pressure will be off.
4. There is a way through every block.
5. Vibrate the cosmos and the cosmos shall clear the path.
Meditation for Stress Relief & Clearing Emotions of the Past
This breathing meditation is very useful for dealing with stressful relationships and unsettling issues from the past. It also helps to transmute fears and brings mind into a calm and relaxed state. One of our students used it in an airplane to reduce the fear of flying.
Place your hands in front of the center of the chest in the shape of a tent.
All the fingers touch as do the thumbs which are held separate from hands. Palms are away from each other.
With long, slow, deep and smooth breathing, inhale for a count of five, suspend the breath for a count of five and then exhale for a count of five.
Kundalini Yoga is a great tool for an addiction recovery. Please take a look at the video of Michael Chronopoulos, Kundalini Yoga teacher, Shiatsu therapist and dear friend, and see his experience and his path of recovery and healing. It is a trailer for his movie Iggy Shark.
NLP means Neural Linguistic Programming, a powerful therapeutic tool to reprogram our mind, change our habits and behaviors, improve communication and presentation skills and learn how to achieve what we want the easiest way. It is a great technology to reach excellence in any expertise, realize hidden talents, expend creativity and dissolve emotional blocks.
NLP was developed by Dr. John Grinder and his student Richard Bandler. Bandler used patterns in mathematics and computers, and Grinder used patterns in linguistics. They also included the hypnosis technique of Milton Erickson and built a communication model about human "thinking" and "processing". The model was based on what the person sees, hears, smells, tastes and touches and how it is reflected in his or her mind. The model gives understanding of the subjective experience.
NLP is a great tool to deepen the awareness and reach your unlimited potential. Sessions are held one-on-one, and after each session the results can be seen almost instantly. It is the fastest tool for a change on any level. And it is completely experiential – without trying it there is no way to understand what it is.
For example, find an event in your life where you really felt great. See the image of the event in your mind. Is it in color or black and white? If it is in color make it black and white or vice-versa. Notice the change of feelings when you transform the picture.
Now, bring the picture closer and see if the feelings are intensifying. Then, move the picture farther away. What happens with your feelings? This way we are just playing with our brain but at the same time playing with our feelings and sensations.
The neurology of our emotions responds to the linguistics (or symbols) of our brain. When we change various features of our representations, it affects our responses. And that is a powerful way to heal and restructure.
It is said that New Year is a good time to make resolutions, to remove bad habits and create more supporting ones. However, have those resolutions came through? Instead of making resolutions and being angry with yourself for not manifesting them it’s better to decide to not make any resolutions this year. It’s better to accept ourselves for what we are and stay happy with what we have. With that positive frame of mind and that deep love for ourselves, things will begin to unfold for us – we would want to stay healthy, balanced, centered and positive. We’ll stay away from addictive substances, junk foods and behaviors that don’t serve us. We’ll naturally do things that would make us and our family and friends joyful. And we wouldn’t need resolutions to keep us on the right track. We would become walking, talking resolutions. Yoga is a powerful tool to bring yourself into the awareness of who you are and what your purpose is. Your diligent and committed practice can create a space of peace and acceptance deep within yourself.
Deep inner work, deepening connection to our soul, our heart and our higher consciousness were the words most used on our November retreat. The best way to describe our retreat is to read what other people have experienced:
"Many people come here looking for a spark, and you delivered it faithfully. You've touched me and ignited love that I can't wait to share. Thank You."
Leslie Cook, Product Development Associate
"This was an incredible experience, so positive and uplifting, a real emotional journey for me."
Marika Csotar, Ticketing Agent
"This was my third retreat with Bliss Yoga Studio and I loved it again. Each retreat has been different and left me feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and blissful. The instructors are wonderful, not only as Yoga instructors but also as people. This retreat has recharged my batteries. Also, I met wonderful people and enjoyed beautiful countryside. Thank you."
Angie Szuch, Government of Ontario
To see our retreat gallery, please follow the link: November Retreat
Tantric Numerology is an ancient discipline practiced in Yoga and Tantra. It is based on the science of ten spiritual bodies that represent different parts in us. By becoming aware of our bodies and getting to know them we become more realized human beings.
1. The SOUL body - it is our core essence, eternal and unlimited.
2. The NEGATIVE mind - this is the protective part of our mind; its function is to warn about possible dangers.
3. The POSITIVE mind - this is the positive part of our mind; its function is to look for keys, explanations and resolutions.
4. The NEUTRAL mind - the mind of neutral observer and listener; it is the balance point between positive and negative mind.
5. The PHYSICAL body – our current physical vehicle
6. The ARC line - it goes from an ear lobe to an ear lobe (it forms halo around our head). Women have two arc lines. The other one goes from a nipple to a nipple. It carries our intuition and purpose in life.
7. The AURIC body - the electromagnetic field around our physical body. It gives protection from the environmental influences.
8. The PRANIC body – it gives prana (life force) to the physical body through the breath.
9. The SUBTLE body – connected to our soul body. Through this body we can learn quickly and be very sensitive to communications with others.
10. The RADIANT body – radiant magnetic projection, grace and nobility. If you wish to grow your radiant body, do not cut your hair.
After using my laptop a lot, I noticed my neck and shoulders were aching from looking down at the screen in the same position all the time. This video is the answer to bring relief to neck and shoulders. It is easy to do and takes under 7 minutes. People feel more energized and in a better state of mind afterwards.
It also gives everyone some inspiring words on success from my favorite book, Ancient Secrets of Success by Tulshi Sen.
BTW - this is not to be taken as medical advice - do not do anything (in this video or others) that causes you any pain whatsoever.
Enjoy this mini-break right at your desk and feel free to leave a comment and let me know how it worked.
Listen to the track to stimulate your confidence and self-esteem. Allow yourself to have frequent stops in your everyday routine to rejuvenate and refresh your mind.
Sun Rising at Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii
elevation 10500 feet
While I was watching the spectacular sunrise at Haleakala provincial park I experienced both, the state of calm and peace but at the same time the state of joy and bliss that I'm alive and I can watch the wonderful scene. And the words of Sri Chinmoy came to my mind:
"...When we experience peace, we usually feel it in the heart center. Then from the heart chakra, peace may enter into our other spiritual centers. But when we experience bliss, we feel it all over our body, from the soles of our feet to the crown of our head. When we pray and meditate soulfully, we are bound to attain peace. But there is a specific kind of meditation that is the easiest way to acquire peace. If a seeker can meditate on the setting sun, then it is easy for him to feel the presence of peace. And if the same seeker meditates on the rising sun, then it is easy for him to achieve bliss. We have to know that in the spiritual life it is always advisable to meditate on the thing that embodies the reality that we want to achieve. The setting sun embodies peace, and it offers peace to the world at large. The rising sun embodies bliss and offers bliss to the world at large. And the seeker receives bliss and peace from the rising and setting sun according to his capacity and receptivity..."
On August 26 we celebrate Yogi Bhajan birthday. Yogi Bhajan was the master of Kundalini Yoga and he brought it to the West in 1969. On his birthday we tune into the worldwide simultaneous meditation, beginning at 3:00 AM Pacific Daylight Savings Time. We chant Guru Guru Wahe Guru, Guru Ram Das Guru for 11 minutes. It is also traditional to do 2.5 hours of Long Ek Ong Kars at a time best suited to your time zone.
Long Ek Ong Kar (Adi Shakti Mantra)
Ek Ong Kaar Sat Naam Siree Wha-hay Guroo
One creator created this creation. Truth is his name. Great beyond description is his name.
Global Meditations bring us together in spirit. Our energies connect and coordinate, creating a magical experience and producing powerful results.
Sit in easy pose (cross-legged position) or in the chair with your feet on the ground. Allow your spine to be erect, chest lifted and shoulders relaxed. The chin is slightly in and the neck tall. Extend your arms, hands on your knees in Giyan mudra (index fingers and thumbs touching). Inhale in 4 equal lengths through your solar centers (your abdominal area and the top of your head) visualizing white light. Exhale deeply blue light through every pore on your body filling your electromagnetic field (aura) with this healing blue flame. Do this not more than 15 minutes and relax. Then, continue the same visualization just use 5 equal lengths of inhale and slowly progress to 9. Do not exceed 15 minutes in the second part. Sometimes tremendous heat can be accumulated in the body that can burn toxins and waste. Deeply relax at the end.
Many of you had asked me to publish the grounding standing meditation that we do before our sun salutations. Grounding simply means to stay in the body, feeling balanced and anchored in our earthly plane. That way we bring the source of energy to us and we become open to receive knowledge and abundance. When we are not grounded and not aware of our physical body, we switch to the mode of "go and get it" which brings lots of tension and stress. This grounding meditation puts us right back into the aware and tranquil state of mind.
Stand with your feet hip width apart. Lift all of your toes, spread them around, and softly place your big toes and your little toes on the ground, lifting the other three up. Then, place the other three down. Try not to grip your toes and keep them relaxed. Lift your arches of the floor and feel three points on your feet: two at the front and to the sides and one in the middle of your heels. Feel the equal weight on those three points on both feet. Keep your legs firm, all muscles engaged and micro bend your knees. You can visualize growing roots from your feet down into the ground feeling very stable, connected and balanced.
Tuck your tale bone and pull your navel in. Extend your spine and lift your chest. Relax your shoulders by extending your arms down. Keep you chin in and neck tall. Breathe long and deep from your navel point for a few moments and relax.
Creative Corner
"What we call imagination is a reality in some other world" Sri Chinmoy
Six ways of looking at the brown dog or circle by Jelena Duma
I
A dark brown circle, she sleeps,
listens sharply, ears shudder,
her fur glows,
black nose rests on her white paw. II
A tornado, she spins -
ecstasy and joy arise.
Hissing sound. Repeats every word,
her language becomes ours, too. III
The yard is round and she runs,
faster than children, catches the ball,
hypnotizes her prey, seizes a squirrel’s tail,
in the end she gets what she wants. IV
Clear green waters,
reflecting mind, no doubts,
the moment is all,
her full circle of life. V
Eyes open and wide,
looking straight, no hesitation,
big oak tree, deep roots, trust,
and encircled truth. VI
Warmth circulates through veins,
heart beats faster,
the nose sniffs, fresh baked cookies,
she runs through mesmerizing illusion.
A quick meditation for stress release. It helps to alleviate the immediate tension giving you state of calm and peace. It is very simple to do and could be done almost anywhere.
Meditation for stress release
Sit in easy pose (cross-legged position) or in the chair with your feet on the ground. Allow your spine to be erect, chest lifted and shoulders relaxed. Chin is slightly in and the neck tall. Place your hands in front of your heart, connect your fingertips together and pressed them firmly, spread your fingers wide and place the hole between your thumbs and your pinkies in front of your heart. Inhale through your nose deeply and exhale through your mouth in eight strokes. With each stroke pull your navel in. Eyes are closed and point them up to your third eye point (between your eyebrows and little bit up) to stimulate your pituitary gland. Start with 3 minutes and progress gradually to 11 minutes.
Fingertips are the reflex points of our brain centers. By stimulating those points we balance our left and right brain hemispheres.
Creative Corner
"What we call imagination is a reality in some other world" Sri Chinmoy
The Mirror by Jelena Duma
The mirror, six foot tall,
in my bedroom on the sun lightened wall,
oak frame, dark brown and wide,
showing cracks and scratches from its ancient past.
Black stains on the mirror’s smooth surface,
faded away from the white built up fur,
had this mirror since I first saw this world,
the reflection of my first conscious thought.
I look in the mirror, straight in the eyes,
see blues, smiling irises, greeting the sun,
feel my back touching white, warm sand,
the calm, transparent sea,
changing color from light blue to emerald green.
The hot wind plays the game of white clouds,
moves them around in the indefinite sky.
My heart, the sun,
my body, the sea.
Later, I look again,
and see the dark, empty space,
black hole, no end, hear echoing screams,
heart beats, feel tummy cramps,
legs shakes, body trembles.
Going through the dark void of tunnel,
without strength to resist,
no light at the end
only horrific scenes.
Who is the source and who is the image?
The hand touches the rusty polish,
the reflection is doing the same,
and in the moment, realization occurs,
there is no source or the image,
there is no love or fear,
only the ancient mirror exists,
that reflects both.
Creative Corner
"What we call imagination is a reality in some other world" Sri Chinmoy
Cactus by Jelena Duma
Green moisture, desert water,
A bit sour, but sweet.
White lace of thorns -
a thousand invisible spikes on the skin.
A yellow glowing bird,
feeds on sweet juices of green flash.
The hot air, smell of blazing earth,
echo of lifeless, prickly plants,
many limbs of green, tall creature,
buzzing, hissing, cracking.
Standing still, no roots,
water inside, heat outside.
To the bird, to the men,
giving its blood,
finding joy,
in their grateful smile.
Cold nights,
dark, nothing to see,
standing still with limbs of help,
radiating yellow heart.
Another successful weekend retreat at Saha Yoga Centre! Wonderful weather, crisp air, peaceful lake and lots of love and sharing. We connected on more profound level and went deeper into our practice. It was the same retreat place but completely different experience – everybody acknowledged. We met new friends, deepened our old friendships and had lots of fun. Once again, Linda and Michael, owners of Saha Yoga, proved their great hospitality. Michael’s vegan/vegetarian meals were delicious. Thanks a lot!
To see pictures from the retreat, please click on Retreat
We were really blessed this year to have Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa coming to Toronto for the annual Yoga Conference. Her presence enlightened the conference and her natural charm, light and openness touched the heart of every soul at her class. By the end of her last teaching, there were no eyes without tears. Even those ones who did Kundalini Yoga for the first time were deeply touched by the power of the practice. She said that Kundalini Yoga brings out the worst and the best in you. If it happens to be the worst, it is better to leave it in the class. Then, you stay enlightened with what is the best in you. She left Toronto with the inspiring words: “help somebody else even if that slows you down” explaining the way to achieve true happiness. Her message was love, giving, sharing and uplifting others. Thank you so much Gurmukh and we hope to see you soon!
Gurmukh is the director of two Yoga studios – “spiritual villages”how she calls them. One is in LA, California and the other one is in NYC, NY. To see her bio, info and her tour around the world follow the link: www.goldenbridgeyoga.com.
I’ve been asked so many times: “what can I do in the morning - I have only a few minutes to do some exercises or how can I start my own practice at home but not to overwhelm myself with tons of poses?”
In Kundalini Yoga our classes are structured in sets – sequences of asanas and kriyas (physical exercises). The sequence is very important to follow; it is the only way to awaken energies in the proper way. Here is an excellent set of exercises that you can do every morning when you get up. You can even do it in your bed (if your mattress is firm enough)!
1. Tune in with ONG NAMO GURU DEV NAMO – I bow to my divine wisdom
2. Ego eradicator pose with breath of fire – 2 minutes
Sitting in easy pose (crossed legged), arms up at sixty degrees angle, fingers curled to you finger pads, thumbs up, palms facing forward, shoulders down, chin slightly in and neck tall. Eyes closed and focused up to your third eye point. Begin breath of fire through your nose for 2 minutes. At the end, inhale and hold your breath, stretch your arms up, let your thumbs touch and extend your fingers up. Then, exhale bringing your arms down, palms on your knees and relax for a moment.
3. Stretch pose with breath of fire – 2 minutes
Lie down on your back, extend your legs and lift them six inches from the floor. Lift your shoulders and your head having your arms parallel to the floor with palms down. Begin powerful breath of fire for 2 minutes. To end, inhale, hold the pose and hold the breath and then exhale and relax. The pose brings lots of energy to your solar plexus and initiates your navel point.
4. Roll on your back – 2 minutes
Lying on your back, curl your spine and hug your knees. Chin is down almost to your collar bone. Begin to rock, forth and back massaging your whole spine. Be sure that your lower back is touching the floor.
5. Alternate nostril breathing - 2 minutes
Sitting in easy pose, extend your left arm, left palm in gyan mudra (index finger and thumb touching). Close your left nostril with your right index finger and inhale through your right nostril. Then, close your right nostril with your right thumb and exhale through your left nostril. Inhale through your left nostril again, close your left with your index and exhale through your right. Inhale through your right, close your right with your thumb and exhale through your left. Continue breathing using this pattern for two minutes with your own breath rhythm. This breathing exercise balances left and right brain hemisphere, cleansing your nasal passages. To end inhale through both nostrils and hold your breath, then exhale. Notice how your mind and your thoughts become light as you finish the exercise.
6. A cold shower would be a great benefit for your blood vessels, skin, and feeling wonderful in your body temple
After this short set you will feel profoundly more energized and uplifted. It would set your psyche for the whole day, balance your nervous system and stimulate your glandular system. Try it and send us your comments on info@blissyogastudio.net.
Watch your thoughts, they create your world – what you see, hear, touch, taste and smell. They direct your actions, communications and relationships. They are the cause of emotional upheavals. They can easily switch from stress to fantasy and multi-realities.
We have a thousand thoughts per wink of an eye. We call our minds – containers of our thoughts.
Can we hold the mind?
Can we see where it begins?
Can we see the end of it?
Can we see the beginning and end of each thought?
We talk about the mind as if it is something static, but in a fact, it is dynamic. It doesn’t rest at all. It is a process and it should be called – "minding".
How to stop our "minding" process? It is very hard. The only thing we can do is to observe it. What thought comes first and then the next one…But that is hard, too. Sometimes, impossible. So, how should we gain control over our mind, stop our abrupt reactions and angry outbursts? The easiest way is to focus on something else. That is why we use meditations with special breathing techniques, chanting and movements.
During meditations we go through the wide range of experiences. When we begin, our mind begins to get used to new experience. If we proceed, the mind will complain, it will give many reasons why not to meditate. If we continue anyways, it will bring the physical pain and mental calculations of how it is better to stop the whole thing. And if we continue even more, it will reach the culmination of giving us really hard time. The pain will become unbearable. The thoughts will torment us until we surrender.
And we reach the place where the old saying helps: you cannot fail if you don’t give up. So, if we stay with our crazy mind without believing it, something new will happen. Everything will stop and we will enter the new phase. We will become invincible. We will gain back control. We will realize: if we cannot hold our thoughts, if we cannot see their beginning and end – how would we know if they are real? Well, they are not. They are illusion. And that is the hardest thing to believe.
We make our thoughts. We are the authors of our life, our feelings and our emotions. We can create whatever we want to create. We don’t need to do anything in our life, except to enter that subtle state of no mind, to become realized. Then, we can become happy, contented and fulfilled human beings.
It is very common during Kundalini Yoga class to see somebody crying. Crying is a very powerful emotional release, nothing to be ashamed of. It is a form of healing and we should learn to enjoy a good cry.
When we were babies, we expressed our emotions freely and naturally through laughter, singing, yawning, crying... The energy was freely flowing, cleansing our body, mind and soul. We breathed from our centre, our navel point.
However, with time we learn that it’s not nice to cry. We learn to hide our tears, constrict our throat and swallow our pain. It’s not nice to laugh too loud. And we should only sing if we have a “pleasant” voice. We learn to hate ourselves for crying and to hate our own voices. We never laugh without a reason. We learn to block the creative expression of our emotions. We start to breathe with shallow breaths. We become disconnected from our centre.
During Kundalini Yoga classes - body movements, meditations and breathing exercises - we reach the deeper levels of our Selves. We link all three components: body, mind and spirit and heal on a cellular level. When the energy block is released, we feel powerful explosions of mind emotions and body feelings. Then, we cry, laugh, sing…We feel lighter and happier. New insights emerge and inner wisdom radiates.
Crying should be honored as a wonderful way to cleanse and detoxify ourselves. It is a way to go deeper into our Conscience. It is a way to become a more aware human being.
We run busy lives. By doing something all the time, we become unaware how the life style affects our body and mind. Our connection to the soul is forgotten and whatever we do is oriented outward. We expect results and recognition. And if we don’t accomplish them, the drama is on the way. Even if we practice Yoga regularly, we are prone to have angry outburst and emotional upheavals.
Retreat is about going inward again to reach your soul. It is going back into your awareness. It is about connecting to your infinite potential, discovering your talents and releasing emotional baggage. It is about reprogramming your subconscious mind to serve your greatest desires.
After each retreat, energy shifts. We become different in every way. Old wounds heal, mind opens and we begin to love ourselves on a deeper level. Physically, organic vegan/vegetarian food helps us to cleanse, exercises to strengthen our muscles and heal injuries. Quite often happens that people come with flu and after just a couple of days, they become healthier than they had ever been before. Even great spiritual teachers retreat for few months yearly to connect to their inner Selves, so that they can serve humanity better.
Retreats are best to do during change of seasons. That way we prepare ourselves spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically for the next phase in our life. The full moon and the new moon also influence the depth-ness of the retreat, since certain practices are specifically designed for those days. Personal experience of every retreat is different. The best way to know what retreat is all about is to experience it for yourself.
Breath of Fire is one of the foundational breath techniques used in the practice of Kundalini Yoga - one of the oldest and most powerful of the 22schools of Yoga. As the name implies, it is a powerful form of breathing that accompanies many postures and can also be practiced on its own.
To practice, sit on the floor in a comfortable cross-legged position and place hands gently on your knees. Begin rapidly to breathe through your nose and as you expel the breath out, pull your navel in back to your spine. As you inhale relax your navel. Be focused on your exhale - inhale will come automatically. To feel the movement of your navel, you can place one or both hands on your belly. Try to do it for a minute and relax after it, with deep and long breathing. Notice how your mind will change after only a minute of this powerful technique.
The benefits derived from exercising Breath of Fire are myriad:
eliminates toxins and waste from the body
increases and strengthens nervous and immune system
stress and anxiety release
reduces cravings for drugs, smoking and junk food
oxygenate every organ and cell, especially the brain, bringing neutrality and balance
To students new to Kundalini Yoga, Breath of Fire may take some time and practice to master as it requires isolating and exercising abdominal muscles that may not be innately natural to one's habitual breathing. Yet, with practice and determination, this powerful and dynamic breath technique has the ability to cleanse, balance, strengthen and energize the mind and body in profound ways - and make every breath you take in the course of your day a better breath.
Whether you are an experienced practitioner of Yoga - or wouldn't know Kundalini from Fettucini - what better time of year to seek out your local Yoga studio and discover the joy and immeasurable benefit to your body and soul that this ancient gift provides.
The word Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yugit” which means to unite or to join together. Through the practice of Yoga we begin to experience our three fold structure: our physical body, mind and our soul, uniting them and bringing them into a state of balance and equilibrium.
Benefits include:
Stress relief
Deeper breathing
Better physical flexibility and endurance
Greater physical strength and stamina
Greater psychological strength and stamina
Better circulation and cardio training
Better mental focus and concentration
Pain relief
Weight management
Yogic lifestyle encourages healthy eating habits by providing a heightened sense of well being, self-esteem and awareness. Weight control is established by reducing the cortisol - stress hormone levels, by burning excess calories and reducing stress.
Although there are many styles of yoga, the differences are usually on focusing on strict alignment of the body, coordination of breath and movement, holding the postures, or the dynamic flow from one posture to another. Every style is designed to fit particular body type and mind. The best way to see which type of Yoga is for you is to try and experience it directly.
