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Posts Tagged ‘Yoga Teacher Training’

Is Yoga Improving Your Wellness

Wednesday, October 20th, 2010

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In today’s modern world, discussing an age old principle such as yoga can be rather challenging. The true idea of this ancient art has long been forgotten, buried within the challenging lifestyle of modern day globalization. Most people choose to explain yoga as a simple concept rather than a complicated philosophy in order to help people understand better. The particulars of this training might not be easily recognized by the western civilization.

 

Referring to a problem you do not have a comprehensive understanding of, and spreading the words as the gospel truth is a dangerous business. Yoga is mainly perceived as a physical exercise in the western part of the world. It can be displayed as a physical activity which is focused on the achievement of internal balance and meditative states of mind.

 

It is among the six schools of Hindu thoughts has roots deep inside the pages of the Hindu Holy Scriptures. In India, yoga is considered a very spiritual experience that has a physical element into it. However the western world would rather refer yoga as a simple physical practice. The hidden particulars on this mysterious practice having its strange looking symbols could be successful to make the typical westerner conscious that there are more to yoga than physical moves alone, but nevertheless they are often misunderstood. Working from the wrong paradigm, yoga grew to become a kind of sports in the western world. The appeal of yoga as an ideal way to achieve inner serenity and stability has beckoned many to embrace this activity as well. Furthermore, people who wish inner tranquility might often find this practice to be useful.

 

The so called experts in this field have been quick to make use of these promises and people have been attracted. Deadly errors have been detected in the practice of yoga outside of India, showing the level of misunderstanding among the western practitioners. A closer look revealed that these types of errors were caused by the social influence of each race. Apparently, the west is not willing to spend too much effort in important contemplations of this philosophy, therefore the ensuing fatal error as a result of lack of understanding.

 

While meditation is an integral part of the practice, the westerners with their ever hectic lifestyles certainly don’t posses time for such recreation. The greed for power and material wealth that is crucial in the western culture doesn’t have place in the Hindu culture. The western man shall by no means reach the heights of intelligence according to the boundaries set by the Hindu faith and culture. Patience as well as time is necessary for meditation. The westerners don’t view investment in such contemplative occasions to the accomplishment of philosophical wisdom to be valuable. It places high amount of significance in the mere acquisition of wealth and power.

 

Ironically, yoga has been implemented as a trend in the western part of the world. There is plenty of information going out promoting yoga as a form of sport. Followers of popular people who later become false gurus are adamant about promoting their idol and his practice. The growing effect of this unhealthy philosophy is related to the disciples that are faithful in getting the news out about the benefits of adopting this crooked kind of yogic philosophy.

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Managing Stress By Means Of Yoga

Tuesday, October 19th, 2010

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Contrary to common belief, yoga is not just about going through pure ecstasy through the union of the mind, the soul, and the body. It is also about coping with one’s self and a highly effective means of stress management.

 

Today, most yoga practitioners and teachers think that apart from providing relaxation and peace, yoga is about the seemingly limitless capability of a person to be in control and unite with him or her inner self. With these main principles, yoga can be an efficient way of stress management when used adequately.

 

Be description of, the term “yoga” originated from a Sanskrit term meaning “union or joining.” It is regarded as almost an ambiguous term since it encompasses a wide range of solely physical disciplines to purely spiritual. When people speak of yoga, the term “asana” is often mentioned. Asana is known as among the eight kinds of yoga in which mental and spiritual well being are considered first compared to body endurance. These days, the two words have become almost synonymous to modern-day yogis because they embody a similar concept: relaxation though meditation.

 

If you are planning to train yoga as a form of stress management, it shouldn’t be as confusing as it seems because you do not need to learn all of the concepts and philosophies guiding it. This ancient tradition that needs profound meditation has been proven as an ideal way to wind down. You should know the basic information you will need for you to apply the idea in your daily life.

 

How to start with Yoga

 

There are various reasons people use yoga. Possibly because using yoga they are able to discover all of the possibilities of health and leisure. Using deep meditation, it can be used not only for spiritual discipline, but enables you to manage stress.

 

In order to find the correct yoga program, you will first need to understand what your main goal is. This is especially true if you are planning to using yoga for stress management.

 

The first thing that you have to remember before you totally indulge in practicing yoga is setting and determining your own goals. You can do this by knowing first, what are the possible health and fitness benefits you may get from yoga. Most yoga enthusiasts agree that the major potential advantage of yoga is to relieve tension.

 

Apart from this, it can also improve strength and versatility, creation of balance as well as the improvement of breathing and general posture. On the spiritual element, yoga can be an exercise that will help you soothe your nervousness, calm your mind while increasing your focal and concentration expertise.

 

After setting your objectives, make sure to see your doctor and have a total physical examination. It is important to know what your boundaries are given that yoga requires physical endurance. Speak with your doctor about yoga. You may even want to visit an orthopedic before starting a yoga class so you won’t have any injuries.

 

Before picking a yoga teacher, know his qualifications. You must also know what your physical and mental limits are. Before you use yoga to manage stress, you will have to know what clothing to wear and what time is best. Find out what the basic poses are before advancing.

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Yoga To Extend Your Life

Saturday, October 16th, 2010

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Yoga makes you really feel better. You don’t need to dedicate several hours each day to exercises. Instead, concentrate on doing every exercise with correct technique and proper form. Little by little build up to 10 to 15 repetitions of each exercise. Keep in mind to take a break when you really need one. When you work your central muscles to fatigue throughout a fitness session, delay a minimum of a day between workouts to allow your muscles time to recover. Drink water or sports drinks before, during and after your workout — even though you’re not thirsty. You can be just as dehydrated in the cold as in the heat from perspiring, breathing as well as improved urine production.

 

 

If the simple thought of a morning jog making you worn out, try these thoughts on for size. If your mental bar is just too high, you might give up without even trying. Start with a walk around the block. Do not stop trying if you are worn out. Take another stroll round the block the next day. Keep it up, and in the end you’ll no longer feel worn out. That’s improvement! Plan physical activity for times of the day once you tend to feel more energetic or at least not quite so lazy. Block off times for physical activity, and make sure your friends and family understand your dedication.

 

Request their reassurance as well as support. Natural athletic capability is not a prerequisite to physical activity. Try something basic, such as a everyday walk. Also, team up with friends who are having the same problem. Have fun while helping one another to work out. Don’t worry about being a superstar athlete or signing up for the hard-bodied athletes at the fitness club. Just target the positive changes you’re making to your body and mind.

 

When it is cold, blood is shunted to your body’s core, leaving your hands and feet vulnerable to frostbite. Try wearing a thin set of mitts under a pair of heavier gloves or mittens layered with wool or fleece. You might want to get workout shoes a half-size larger than normal allowing for solid thermal socks or even an additional pair of ordinary socks. And don’t forget a hat or scarf — 30 to 40 percent of your body temperature is actually lost through your head. Experts say that everyone could exercise safely and securely in the cold, not to mention people with asthma and heart problems. If you have health issues, get your doctor’s OK.

 

Yoga exercises are a significant part of a well-rounded fitness program. Aside from occasional sit-ups and push-ups, however, primary workouts are usually ignored. Still, its smart to have your core muscles in better condition. Use inexpensive resistance bands in place of weights. Lift plastic milk jugs partially filled up with water or sand. Do push-ups or squats using your body weight. Try videos on dance aerobics or cardio-kickboxing. Find friends, neighbors or co-workers for regular group walks. Skip the elevator when you can. In addition to this, make climbing stairs a workout in itself. Take it slow. Begin with a basic walking program. As you become more confident in your abilities, add new activities to your program.

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Yamas And Niyamas – Guidelines For Mindful Existence

Friday, October 8th, 2010

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What are they?  They’re not the actual “ten commandments” or any sort of externally enforced principles.  The Yamas and Niyamas are GUIDES that must be deeply considered.  Yoga is more than a physical discipline.  Yoga is a path, with a rich viewpoint.  Yamas and Niyamas are ten great common-sense recommendations for leading a healthier, happier living – delivering spiritual consciousness into a cultural framework.  Target the kinds that speak out loud with you today.  Consider their particular application in your life.  Use your rational thoughts to question them, think about them, and examine these coming from all perspectives. Yoga isn’t about mindlessly agreeing to externally enforced rules – it’s about finding the truth for yourself.  So question, challenge and contemplate the guidelines that resonate with you these days.   Let the remainder go.  Ultimately, we find that all of these apply to us, and we choose to live by these guidelines.  For the time being, think about each one of these carefully.  You could return to this site to evaluate these again.

 

There are lots of interpretations of the yamas and niyamas.  I have taken definitions from a variety of sources to give you as balanced and comprehensive an idea of their particular meaning as it can be.  Yoga along with Sanskrit scholars please feel free to e-mail me with any kind of recommendations. Learn more from yoga teacher training.

 

Exactly why study the Yamas and Niyamas? They help you handle your energy in an integrative manner, matching your external life to your internal growth. They help you view yourself with compassion and awareness. They help you actually respect all the different beliefs on the planet, balancing your inner growth together with external restraint.  They allow you to lead a CONSCIOUS LIFE.

 

Yamas together with Niyamas are not about right and wrong. They are about being truthful with ourselves. Living these concepts will change us within the moment. Not about being “bad” or “good” – they’re regarding living our way of life in a better approach, considering and becoming better, moving towards understanding rather than separation. Negative things occur in everyone’s life occasionally. It is not what happens that means something – it is EXACTLY HOW YOU RESPOND TO IT.

 

Yamas – Guidelines for the way we interact along with the outer world.  Interpersonal disciplines to lead us in our interactions with others.  The 5 yamas are: Ahimsa. Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha. Check out yoga conference for more details.

 

“Yamas and niyamas all have got their basis in ahimsa (not harming living creatures); their purpose is to perfect this kind of love that we must have for all creatures….” Coming from the “Yogasutra-bhashya” 2.30, by Vyasa, the earliest commentary on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, translated. by J. Varenne, “Yoga in the Hindu Custom”, Univ. of Chicago Press, 1976

 

• Ahimsa: non-violence, kindness, no harm within your actions.

 

Awareness and meekness in action, thought and speech. Physical violence arises out of dread, rage, restlessness and envy.

 

Practice: compassion, love, understanding, patience, self-love, and merit.

 

Non-violence in action, thought, or words to living creatures, or toward ourselves.  Think of violence within the body. If a friend acted in your direction the way your own brain does, he probably would not be your buddy any longer. So, look at yourself with tenderness as well as compassion. Construct links with people. This is NOT “how to become a doormat.” One aspect of non-violence is making boundaries for serenity if a person is acting violently towards you. “NO” must be within your vocabulary to apply Ahimsa. Ahimsa can be powerful. Gandhi’s whole life was founded on the basic principle of Ahimsa, but he made use of that as a powerful tool.

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Yoga Training – Contraindications For Inversions

Wednesday, October 6th, 2010

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In Yoga, whether you stand with the head, bend forward, or bend backwards, if your head is below the heart, you are performing an inversion.

 

This means that Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) and Fish (Matsyasana) are also inversions – although both postures are moderate in comparison to Head Stand (Sirsasana). If the risks over-shadow the advantages, there is no logical reason an instructor in a yoga teacher training or pupil should train a technique. The next contraindications are particularly associated with inversions.

 

If you have any of these conditions, please omit inversions or talk with a competent teacher who will adjust your exercise. If you are an instructor, you need to make certain to understand about the physical condition of every student. This means new pupils who show up late, disrupt your classes, take risks if they have any medical conditions and will keep you accountable if something goes wrong.

 

The answer: Do not educate students who you have not spoken to prior to training. A student’s medical condition is data that you must understand to be able to teach Yoga exercises safely. In the following cases, inversions should be omitted, adjusted, or changed, depending on the health of the pupil.

 

In the case of neck issues, eye problems, a past heart stroke, hypertension, heart problems, sinus problems, and epilepsy, inverted asanas must be omitted, altered, or changed. If a pupil is expecting, she should be practicing with a prenatal Yoga exercise specialist and attend a yoga conference.

 

In the case of the monthly period, there’s much controversy. About a contraindication for menstruation: At this time, there isn’t any hard data or analysis that would guarantee an official warning.

 

Therefore, it might be wise to let students know of the controversy. Finally, never put a student in danger. If you have serious doubts regarding a student’s capability to properly perform an inverted asana due to a health issue, you have to omit this or insist on a doctor’s note.

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The Yoga Teacher And The Ongoing Relationship With The Yoga Ashram

Thursday, September 30th, 2010

As yoga teachers we all know what a yoga ashram is.  Many of us have probably even been or stayed on a yoga ashram.  Indeed, many of us could have taken our yoga teacher training course at the ashram.

However are we as yoga teachers still drawing from the well spring of the ashram?

Even after obtaining teacher training certification and up and running as a yoga teacher and running a yoga business the yoga ashram still has much to offer.

Firstly for any burnt out yoga teachers, the ashram offers a place of rejuvenation and return to self.  It is a common problem that yoga teachers have full schedules and have difficulty with finding enough time for themselves.  Yoga teachers are often burnt out running from session to session.

The ashram is a great place to take some time out and take stock and regain ones energies and focus on oneself and practice.

Taking it a step further, the yoga ashram is a great place to reinforce all that has been learnt.  A return to the ashram, means integrating previous teachings and acquiring higher levels of understanding and knowledge.

All of this means, taking your practice to the next level.  The opportunity to deepen ones practice.  An opportunity to connect with yourself at a deeper level and your yoga practice.

Of course the yoga ashram also offers further teachings and trainings.  If there is something you have always wanted to learn in your yoga practice or something you are passionate about – go back for more training.  

As a yoga teacher, keeping ones practice fresh and vital means integrating new knowledge.  This is where the ashram helps.

Ashrams are often running different courses and teachings like advanced pranayama, yoga anatomy and physiology refreshers, yoga therapy courses, detoxification courses and asana specific workshops.  Taking further trainings such as these courses is a way to keep your knowledge fresh and vital.

This a great way to increase your own knowledge and deepen your own practice at the same time.  However, all of this in the end also gets transmitted back to your student and in the end – everyone benefits.  Its a win win situation.  Your students receive better classes and you become a better teacher.

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The Many Styles Of Yoga – And Which Will Be Best For You

Friday, September 3rd, 2010

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Yoga in Sanskrit means union and denotes a union or balance between the spirit, body and mind so there exists a state of harmony. This is an ancient holistic method of individual improvement practiced for years. Practiced for nearly 5000 years, the body is gradually trained by putting an emphasis on the strengthening of the mind and body, at the same time revitalizing the spirit – it can be both a science and a philosophy.

 

A Yogi is a male Yoga practitioner and Yogini is a female practitioner. Indian philosophy has six orthodox systems, of which this is one and is regarded an applied science of the body and the mind. Knowing the philosophy of this is a lifetime search and it is just not about squatting in lotus position and chanting.

 

Back problems and others developing from poor posture can be cured by yoga and this also decreases worry. The main reason this complementary therapy is combined with cancer patients is the feeling of wellness it bestows. Many feel that the best time to perform the discipline is on an empty stomach, before any meals are taken in the morning.

 

A number of the styles of this discipline are the following: The Raja yoga is referred to as the kingly form where meditation is the primary training. It is one of the four main paths of yoga where diverse methods help deal with the mind, senses, energy and body.

 

The Kundalini Yoga is the non stressful and safe exercise which gives instant results. It is based on a set of special exercises or Kriyas. We also have Hatha Yoga which can be an extremely great program that’s comprised of breath control and postures; it is the foundation for all of the current asana centered discipline forms.

 

Sahaja Yoga – This is a special meditation based method for self conciousness, Kundalini awakening. This exposure is personal, that comes within each and every individual. Moksha hot yoga: This is therapeutic yoga that is practiced in a special place having a temperature that is above the atmospheric temperature according to the traditional principles of yoga.

 

Yoga is actually becoming a lot more preferred among all age groups from kids to adults. Its development and popularity as a form of exercise is due to the fact that here nothing is conducted to {you}, it is something you need to do to yourself. Expecting mothers can improve stamina and flexibility since it is regarded as one of the best activities that you perform while pregnant.

 

Yoga has become popular among troopers who are enthusiastic in working on their strength, psychological focus and overall flexibility as per Fit Yoga and the Associated Press. The heart of the matter is that this is simply not just a physical exercise routine but a discipline to provide an overall sense of well being and inner relaxation.

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The Journey From Back Pain To Yoga Class

Monday, February 15th, 2010

Why are doctors referring their patients, who have chronic back pain, to Yoga classes? How many studies have been conducted on back pain and Yoga? Is Yoga a “cure all” for back pain? What kind of Yoga class is best for back pain? Let’s look at all of these issues and see if we can clear up some answers.

It is conservatively estimated that more than half of the world adult population suffers from some sort of back pain. Yoga, for back pain, is the most popular subject that teacher interns write about at our Yoga teacher training center.

However, this does not explain why so many doctors, within the United States, refer their patients to Yoga studios as an additional alternative to medication and physical therapy. The truth is, that within the U.S., there have been very few studies, and I only know of one in particular, which was the Group Health Cooperative study, which recently took place in Seattle, Washington.

Therefore, one study is not the answer; especially one study which just happened. The truth is, most of the studies on back pain and Yoga, as a form of therapy, are taking place in India. So, why does your family doctor, chiropractor, or orthopedic doctor, take a leap of faith outside the view of traditional western medicine? To put it simply, doctors read and continually educate themselves. They do not look down the narrow path of medicine that is laid down by bureaucracy.

Yoga is relatively inexpensive, in comparison to prescription medicines, so why bother to do a study? In comparison to the joint ventures, and potential profits involved in pharmaceutical studies, Yoga can’t promise a “big pay day.” Yet, the fact that physicians, within the United States, are willing to “look outside the box” for answers, speaks volumes in regard to their integrity. Doctors are often accused of being too quick to prescribe medicines, but the public often demands quick and effortless solutions in regard to health care.

Is Yoga really a “cure all” for back pain? In short, the answer is “no.” How can I say that? Nothing is a cure all for back pain, but Yoga helps most of the students I work with. No prescription can claim 100% patient satisfaction either. Odds are that most people, with pre-existing back pain, who take up Yoga classes for relief, will reduce the number of pain killers needed. This fact has been stated by my Yoga students over the years.

If you have pre-existing back pain, which style of Yoga should you seek out? Regardless of style, you may want to observe a Yoga class before trying it. You should seek out a gentle style, and you should talk to your prospective Yoga teacher ahead of time.

Stay away from vigorous Yoga classes. I would advise against taking part in my Vinyasa Yoga class, but I would welcome you with open arms in my Restorative Yoga class. Why do I say this? Yoga styles, class formats, lesson plans, and teachers differ.

My suggestion is that you get a private session first, and your Yoga teacher will work with you “first hand.” If possible, get a referral from your doctor, or from a friend, who practices Yoga. This will help you avoid the guessing process.

© Copyright 2006 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Article Source: http://www.hobbyarticledirectory.com

Paul Jerard is director of Yoga teacher training at Aura in RI. He’s a master instructor of martial arts and Yoga. He teaches that along with fitness. He wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students who want to be a teacher. www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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Top Reasons To Practice Yoga

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010

Though the world is going gaga over yoga, there are some people who still don’t understand the necessity to practice yoga. If you too are looking for reasons to practice yoga, then be prepared to have many coming your way. Yoga is a holistic practice that offers both- physical as well as mental benefits. Let us take a look at some of the advantages that yoga has to offer.

Yoga prompts lots of plasticity in your body and that is one of its main benefits. There are various yoga poses that require you to stretch your body which increases the muscle movement and adds to adaptability. Also, yoga adds additional pliancy to some body parts like legs, back, shoulders, and hips.

Yoga also enhances the overall strength of your body. It reinforces your capacity to support your own body. Besides, regular working on diverse body parts improves the power of your body. In addition, it also tones your muscles.Regular practice of yoga yields lean muscles, which subsequently aids in weight loss.

Another significant benefit that yoga offers is that it combats pain. Yoga gives flexibility to the body by keeping the muscles in movement. This alleviates the tightness of muscles and therefore helps to counter discomfort. This is the reason yoga may also be of significant help in relieving back trouble.

Every one of us breathe but there are just a few of us who breathe in the right manner. Most of us practice shallow breathing and the air is not able to reach our lungs. Yoga involves various breathing techniques that teach you how to respire right. This helps improve the final health.

Besides offering you numerous physical benefits, yoga benefits you at the psychological level too. It quietens and calms your mind, reduces stress and improves your concentration levels too. If you get indignant too often, then yoga can help you a great deal. It asks you to work on your body which brings quietness.

Yoga is also a really effective anxiety control method. It helps you remain untouched by everyday stressors and therefore relaxes your mind.Meditation which is an integral part of yoga is one of the best routes to relax your intelligence and ease out your body. If you practice yoga on a consistent basis, you are bound to keep away from stress quite effectively.

Better concentration adds to the list of benefits offered by yoga. Lots of us find it hard to concentrate or focus on a particular thing. Yoga can help resolve this problem. It asks you to concentrate on your movements and the middle of your body. This not only increases your awareness level but also delivers remarked improvement in your concentration.

So, with these and a lot heaps of other benefits, yoga is surely a practice that you may take up instantly.

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