Question:
Is it possible to make a living as a full-time yoga teacher?
Answer:
The answers and the problems vary.
Yoga is now offered in nearly every gym and health club.The demand for Yoga is growing, but the number of Yoga teachers is growing at the same or faster rate.
Most yoga teachers do not make a lot of money. Those teachers that do make their living solely by teaching yoga work incredibly hard at it in a profession where there are no health benefits, no 401k, no job security. On the other hand, lots of great teachers juggle a few classes a week while keeping their regular jobs.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Medicine vs Yoga
Question:
Hi! I'm new to the forum and 1 month into yoga. I was wondering if everyone could help me. I will soon be a doctor and while we are learning many pharmacotherapies, we don't really formally learn about complementary therapies like Yoga. I would like to know from you:
1. Why did you begin practicing yoga?
2. What benefits have you seen?
3. Do you feel that yoga is something you should discuss with your doctor? (or is Yoga a personal decision? How would you feel if your doctor suggested/prescribed yoga)
Thanks for any feedback. If anyone wants to help me, please post a reply on the forum, email me, or IM me via yahoo.
Again, thanks!
Answer:
Why did you begin practicing yoga?
What benefits have you seen. (from a physical standpoint.)
I began practicing yoga 6 years ago in preparation for gastric bypass surgery. Because I'd never had surgery or been in the hospital I thought the relaxation techniques would be useful. Yoga introduced me to my physical body and was pivotal in helping me adjust to a radically different physicality (think driving a sports car when you've only driven a Winnebago.) It has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of my dependency on certain food-based chemicals and has helped me finally conquer a lifelong addiction to food. It has improved posture and corrected body alignment problems and damage that 2 decades of being almost 300# overweight wrought.
Yoga continues to help me deal with stress on a day to day level, it has improved my sleeping and eating patterns enormously and has afforded me a quality of life that neither years of therapy or chemical mood enhancers was able to accomplish. I am healthier and happier than I have ever been at any other time in my memory.
3. Do you feel that yoga is something you should discuss with your doctor? (or is Yoga a personal decision? How would you feel if your doctor suggested/prescribed yoga)
I inform any medical practitioner than I am a serious yogin. 99% of the time the reaction is something like "how nice for you." occasionally a medical practitioner with some knowledge or interest in yoga will explore it further.
Here is an example: A few months back I went to the emergency room with acute abdominal pain. I explained to no less than 8 different medical professionals not only that I practiced yoga, but that I had had a gastric bypass a number of years ago and that I had a hypothesis for what was happening. Because I had also recently had some dental work done and had been prescribed Vicoden, I believed the medication's effect on peristalsis had caused a blockage around the scare tissue where my bypassed intestine was reattached to my stomach pouch. I was told that that was probably not something I could 'feel' and went through about 7 hours of testing (still in excruciating pain) including a CT that I pointed out was no where near where i knew the blockage to be (bariatric surgery had rearranged where things are in my digestive track, another fact they did not take into consideration -- they were looking for the blockage in the wrong place.) Eventually they ruled out a number of things from appendicitis to perforated ulcers but could not diagnose me. Finally gave me pain medication (not in the vicoden family, per my request) and sent me home. Late that night, after several hours of gentle yoga, several hot showers and a couple bouts of dry heaves, I felt the blockage pass. Once the Vicoden was out of my system and by employing some basic yoga postures I was able to dislodge the block and solve the problem on my own.
I have much better luck with my PCP. Early on I think I impressed her with my ability to detect my own gall stones (well, more like gall sand as having experienced a full on gall bladder attack and the passing of a stone, it is not something I will ever repeat.) I explained about gastric bypass and the increased risk for gall stones and told her that when i start getting an icky kind of buzzing burning it generally means I need to go on Actigal for a couple weeks. She was suspicious but curious. She prescribed the Actigal but still ran tests confirming that there was indeed 'pre-stone debris' in my gall bladder. Since then she has not only been much more amenable to my own theories regarding my own body and has also begun developing her own yoga practice.
Yoga informs my ability to isolate the origin of discomfort and is exceptionally useful in pain management. My PCP knows that if I'm experiencing pain that I am unable to breath through, it is significant discomfort. She also recognizes that if i say 'the pain is here' that's where she looks first even if its far more likely that its originating somewhere else. Though I still occasionally get the feeling she's merely patronizing me, she maintains an open mind and will go with my suggestions/request. That in and of itself often offers enough self-efficacy to make me feel better.
I think the trick for a physician to prescribe yoga to a patient is contingent on two things. First, a least an overview of yoga...even if he or she doesn't practice, knowledge of what he/she is prescribing is important. If it's merely 'have you thought about yoga?' yoga is reduced to a current buzz word or 'in-treatment' which serves neither the practice nor the person in pain.
Also, I think it's imperative to keep the spiritual aspects yoga separate from the physical where at all possible. For me, yoga is not spirituality, it is a method of spirituality. If concentration is placed solely on the approach, the method, the physical and its physical results, I believe it will better serve both doctor an patient. I don't want spiritual advice from my PCP.
How great that physicians are taking an interest!
Hi! I'm new to the forum and 1 month into yoga. I was wondering if everyone could help me. I will soon be a doctor and while we are learning many pharmacotherapies, we don't really formally learn about complementary therapies like Yoga. I would like to know from you:
1. Why did you begin practicing yoga?
2. What benefits have you seen?
3. Do you feel that yoga is something you should discuss with your doctor? (or is Yoga a personal decision? How would you feel if your doctor suggested/prescribed yoga)
Thanks for any feedback. If anyone wants to help me, please post a reply on the forum, email me, or IM me via yahoo.
Again, thanks!
Answer:
Why did you begin practicing yoga?
What benefits have you seen. (from a physical standpoint.)
I began practicing yoga 6 years ago in preparation for gastric bypass surgery. Because I'd never had surgery or been in the hospital I thought the relaxation techniques would be useful. Yoga introduced me to my physical body and was pivotal in helping me adjust to a radically different physicality (think driving a sports car when you've only driven a Winnebago.) It has been and continues to be instrumental in my understanding of my dependency on certain food-based chemicals and has helped me finally conquer a lifelong addiction to food. It has improved posture and corrected body alignment problems and damage that 2 decades of being almost 300# overweight wrought.
Yoga continues to help me deal with stress on a day to day level, it has improved my sleeping and eating patterns enormously and has afforded me a quality of life that neither years of therapy or chemical mood enhancers was able to accomplish. I am healthier and happier than I have ever been at any other time in my memory.
3. Do you feel that yoga is something you should discuss with your doctor? (or is Yoga a personal decision? How would you feel if your doctor suggested/prescribed yoga)
I inform any medical practitioner than I am a serious yogin. 99% of the time the reaction is something like "how nice for you." occasionally a medical practitioner with some knowledge or interest in yoga will explore it further.
Here is an example: A few months back I went to the emergency room with acute abdominal pain. I explained to no less than 8 different medical professionals not only that I practiced yoga, but that I had had a gastric bypass a number of years ago and that I had a hypothesis for what was happening. Because I had also recently had some dental work done and had been prescribed Vicoden, I believed the medication's effect on peristalsis had caused a blockage around the scare tissue where my bypassed intestine was reattached to my stomach pouch. I was told that that was probably not something I could 'feel' and went through about 7 hours of testing (still in excruciating pain) including a CT that I pointed out was no where near where i knew the blockage to be (bariatric surgery had rearranged where things are in my digestive track, another fact they did not take into consideration -- they were looking for the blockage in the wrong place.) Eventually they ruled out a number of things from appendicitis to perforated ulcers but could not diagnose me. Finally gave me pain medication (not in the vicoden family, per my request) and sent me home. Late that night, after several hours of gentle yoga, several hot showers and a couple bouts of dry heaves, I felt the blockage pass. Once the Vicoden was out of my system and by employing some basic yoga postures I was able to dislodge the block and solve the problem on my own.
I have much better luck with my PCP. Early on I think I impressed her with my ability to detect my own gall stones (well, more like gall sand as having experienced a full on gall bladder attack and the passing of a stone, it is not something I will ever repeat.) I explained about gastric bypass and the increased risk for gall stones and told her that when i start getting an icky kind of buzzing burning it generally means I need to go on Actigal for a couple weeks. She was suspicious but curious. She prescribed the Actigal but still ran tests confirming that there was indeed 'pre-stone debris' in my gall bladder. Since then she has not only been much more amenable to my own theories regarding my own body and has also begun developing her own yoga practice.
Yoga informs my ability to isolate the origin of discomfort and is exceptionally useful in pain management. My PCP knows that if I'm experiencing pain that I am unable to breath through, it is significant discomfort. She also recognizes that if i say 'the pain is here' that's where she looks first even if its far more likely that its originating somewhere else. Though I still occasionally get the feeling she's merely patronizing me, she maintains an open mind and will go with my suggestions/request. That in and of itself often offers enough self-efficacy to make me feel better.
I think the trick for a physician to prescribe yoga to a patient is contingent on two things. First, a least an overview of yoga...even if he or she doesn't practice, knowledge of what he/she is prescribing is important. If it's merely 'have you thought about yoga?' yoga is reduced to a current buzz word or 'in-treatment' which serves neither the practice nor the person in pain.
Also, I think it's imperative to keep the spiritual aspects yoga separate from the physical where at all possible. For me, yoga is not spirituality, it is a method of spirituality. If concentration is placed solely on the approach, the method, the physical and its physical results, I believe it will better serve both doctor an patient. I don't want spiritual advice from my PCP.
How great that physicians are taking an interest!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
yoga to tone my body?
Question:
i was curious if anyone had noticed that yoga was toning their body. i have tried weight training in the past but it always makes me too bulky. however, i'm just not sure if yoga will be enough to really get me in shape (i'm a new comer). any success stories are welcome
Answer:
As a personal trainer I can tell you that yoga is a wonderful complement to your fitness regimen. However, IMO you'd have to be doing several different styles consistently if you expect yoga to be your sole physical outlet. Ashtanga or power yoga probably requires the most physical exertion, but even then after 8-12 weeks of going you'll likely notice that the physical benefits have plateaued, meaning you won't continue to see improvements unless you change things up.
You mentioned that you run, which is great for the cardiopulmunary system and a fine workout for the lower body. Yoga can help with strength training for the upper body and core (abs/low back), but I suspect you'll find you need more to get a good workout. Yoga is, of course, awesome work for improving flexibility and balance, and serves to make one more aware of the body as a whole.
Just my two cents.
i was curious if anyone had noticed that yoga was toning their body. i have tried weight training in the past but it always makes me too bulky. however, i'm just not sure if yoga will be enough to really get me in shape (i'm a new comer). any success stories are welcome
Answer:
As a personal trainer I can tell you that yoga is a wonderful complement to your fitness regimen. However, IMO you'd have to be doing several different styles consistently if you expect yoga to be your sole physical outlet. Ashtanga or power yoga probably requires the most physical exertion, but even then after 8-12 weeks of going you'll likely notice that the physical benefits have plateaued, meaning you won't continue to see improvements unless you change things up.
You mentioned that you run, which is great for the cardiopulmunary system and a fine workout for the lower body. Yoga can help with strength training for the upper body and core (abs/low back), but I suspect you'll find you need more to get a good workout. Yoga is, of course, awesome work for improving flexibility and balance, and serves to make one more aware of the body as a whole.
Just my two cents.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
YogaFit certification
Question:
Hello! I'm interested in working at sport centers and spas and New York Sports, for example, requires their Yoga instructors to be "Yoga Fit" certified. It sounds cool because they teach you how to work with elderly and physically challenged persons, but on the other hand, is it really worth paying all this money just to audition for one club?
Has anyone had any experience with either Yoga Fit or New York Sports Club? Are Yoga Fit certifications useful in other environments? Also - has anyone had to get CPR training to teach Yoga somewhere? Thank you!
Answer:
YogaFit certification is somewhat controversial. As I understand it, the woman who founded YogaFit, Beth Shaw, is a fitness instructor who trained with White Lotus in Santa Monica. I have a deep respect for their style of yoga, so I think that only reflects positively on her.
Shaw takes a very physical approach to yoga and though I think she "gets it", she has made some alienating statements like, "We burn fat, not incense" and something along the lines of, "don't worry- we're a different kind of yoga- no religion here." Basically, I think she makes it sound as if she is the only one who can bring yoga "to the people", and all other yoga instructors are too mystical/spiritual/religious/whatever to give you a workout.
Having said that, a friend of mine enrolled in her Level 1 and 2 classes despite some initial reservations and said that she felt that the training was very solid- she understood the positioning for some of the asanas better and felt confident that she could deliver a class. As part of the Level 1 (and possibly Level 2) training, participants are required to provide 8 hours of community service.
To muddy things a little further, YogaFit trainees do qualify for Yoga Alliance membership, but only after they've completed Level 4. That course, I believe, does delve into yogic philosophy as well as Anatomy.
I know that YogaFit also has supplementary certifications, such as for Seniors, Pre- and Post-Partum and Kids. I think the expense of those classes (in conjunction with the Level 1 and 2 classes) are much less than a lot of other certifications around. I'd say if the training is readily available, go for it, but also look around for other places where you can continue your education.
Hello! I'm interested in working at sport centers and spas and New York Sports, for example, requires their Yoga instructors to be "Yoga Fit" certified. It sounds cool because they teach you how to work with elderly and physically challenged persons, but on the other hand, is it really worth paying all this money just to audition for one club?
Has anyone had any experience with either Yoga Fit or New York Sports Club? Are Yoga Fit certifications useful in other environments? Also - has anyone had to get CPR training to teach Yoga somewhere? Thank you!
Answer:
YogaFit certification is somewhat controversial. As I understand it, the woman who founded YogaFit, Beth Shaw, is a fitness instructor who trained with White Lotus in Santa Monica. I have a deep respect for their style of yoga, so I think that only reflects positively on her.
Shaw takes a very physical approach to yoga and though I think she "gets it", she has made some alienating statements like, "We burn fat, not incense" and something along the lines of, "don't worry- we're a different kind of yoga- no religion here." Basically, I think she makes it sound as if she is the only one who can bring yoga "to the people", and all other yoga instructors are too mystical/spiritual/religious/whatever to give you a workout.
Having said that, a friend of mine enrolled in her Level 1 and 2 classes despite some initial reservations and said that she felt that the training was very solid- she understood the positioning for some of the asanas better and felt confident that she could deliver a class. As part of the Level 1 (and possibly Level 2) training, participants are required to provide 8 hours of community service.
To muddy things a little further, YogaFit trainees do qualify for Yoga Alliance membership, but only after they've completed Level 4. That course, I believe, does delve into yogic philosophy as well as Anatomy.
I know that YogaFit also has supplementary certifications, such as for Seniors, Pre- and Post-Partum and Kids. I think the expense of those classes (in conjunction with the Level 1 and 2 classes) are much less than a lot of other certifications around. I'd say if the training is readily available, go for it, but also look around for other places where you can continue your education.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
yoga starting out
Question:
Hi, due to recommendation of a friend I decided to start some kind of yoga, (or at least looking at my options). However I can't really find what suits me best, some research reveald that VAMACARA TANTRA would be a good alternative, however I can't really find many resources on it.
Tantra seems as a different alternative however it is not exactly what i am seeking.
What I am specifically looking for is a form of yoga, with it's own excerses and meditation techniques that would teach me how to communicate with my body better, controll my emotions, as well as some of the physical aspects. Where through deep meditation and excersises you can learn about your body.
Right now my mind and the rest of my body are IN the same "entity", which is my body, however I want it to BE one entity. To achieve full physical and mental balance, and equlibrium.
Any seggestions would be welcome. Thank you.
Answer:
There are many styles of hatha yoga available. Some classes offer instruction also in yogic practices of pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation. Some classes are primarily focused on the physical body, others are more mind/body/stress reduction while still others are more spiritually focused. Further, the personality of the instructor, and your own personality are factors in finding a teacher/student relationship which you are comfortable with. I would certainly recommend that you do a little "homework" about yoga styles available, and shop around to see if there is a teacher who is offering the atmosphere and focus which suit you.
Your inquiry reflects a committment to meditation and deeper awareness. I would personally recommend that you find a teacher who can give individual sessions in addition to the group classes in which your personal goals can be addressed.
Other styles of yoga which I personally have experienced and enjoyed include: Kripalu yoga & Viniyoga. Best of luck in your search for a yoga teacher, and remember that the One for whom you search is searching for you! Follow your heart!
Hi, due to recommendation of a friend I decided to start some kind of yoga, (or at least looking at my options). However I can't really find what suits me best, some research reveald that VAMACARA TANTRA would be a good alternative, however I can't really find many resources on it.
Tantra seems as a different alternative however it is not exactly what i am seeking.
What I am specifically looking for is a form of yoga, with it's own excerses and meditation techniques that would teach me how to communicate with my body better, controll my emotions, as well as some of the physical aspects. Where through deep meditation and excersises you can learn about your body.
Right now my mind and the rest of my body are IN the same "entity", which is my body, however I want it to BE one entity. To achieve full physical and mental balance, and equlibrium.
Any seggestions would be welcome. Thank you.
Answer:
There are many styles of hatha yoga available. Some classes offer instruction also in yogic practices of pranayama (breathing techniques) and meditation. Some classes are primarily focused on the physical body, others are more mind/body/stress reduction while still others are more spiritually focused. Further, the personality of the instructor, and your own personality are factors in finding a teacher/student relationship which you are comfortable with. I would certainly recommend that you do a little "homework" about yoga styles available, and shop around to see if there is a teacher who is offering the atmosphere and focus which suit you.
Your inquiry reflects a committment to meditation and deeper awareness. I would personally recommend that you find a teacher who can give individual sessions in addition to the group classes in which your personal goals can be addressed.
Other styles of yoga which I personally have experienced and enjoyed include: Kripalu yoga & Viniyoga. Best of luck in your search for a yoga teacher, and remember that the One for whom you search is searching for you! Follow your heart!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
yoga for kids?
Question:
ok i am 13 years old and i heard that yoga canhelp you alot with school, and just overall life issues. well i went to this website but it doesnt describe what to do very well...i got some pose's and tried them, but i was wondering do you just do the pose's or do you have to do certain breathing excercises before (besides the ones juring the pose) and is there any tips you have for me thanks alot
Answer:
Yes, yoga is more than just the physical position of the body, and the benefits you read about have alot to do with the relaxation and concentration that comes from doing the poses with the yoga breathing. Also, the way you approach doing the poses is different than doing an exercise class. In exercise, you are often working "against" yourself - pushing the muscles to do something and sometimes overriding feelings of pain ("No pain no gain"). In yoga, it is just "NO PAIN!". It is exploring, working with the body, not forcing it. Because you are young and energetic, you probably would like a more active class than a meditative class. It is easy for a 13 yr old to get bored!
A class with a talented teacher can give you proper direction. While you can learn from a book or the internet, seeing and having feedback go a long way to helping you "get it". Reasonably priced yoga classes can usually be found at the Y or community centers. You may have to try a couple different classes b4 you find one that is right for you!
ok i am 13 years old and i heard that yoga canhelp you alot with school, and just overall life issues. well i went to this website but it doesnt describe what to do very well...i got some pose's and tried them, but i was wondering do you just do the pose's or do you have to do certain breathing excercises before (besides the ones juring the pose) and is there any tips you have for me thanks alot
Answer:
Yes, yoga is more than just the physical position of the body, and the benefits you read about have alot to do with the relaxation and concentration that comes from doing the poses with the yoga breathing. Also, the way you approach doing the poses is different than doing an exercise class. In exercise, you are often working "against" yourself - pushing the muscles to do something and sometimes overriding feelings of pain ("No pain no gain"). In yoga, it is just "NO PAIN!". It is exploring, working with the body, not forcing it. Because you are young and energetic, you probably would like a more active class than a meditative class. It is easy for a 13 yr old to get bored!
A class with a talented teacher can give you proper direction. While you can learn from a book or the internet, seeing and having feedback go a long way to helping you "get it". Reasonably priced yoga classes can usually be found at the Y or community centers. You may have to try a couple different classes b4 you find one that is right for you!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Pranayama and asana
Question:
Let's begin a discussion about pranayama experiences during asana practice. What pranayam techniques do you use during your asana practice? Ujjayi, Wave or Full Yogic Breath, do you ever do Kapalabhati during asana practice? Do you ever forget to breathe!!
answer:
Prana is the life energy - yama is traditionally referred to as a restraint of the breath. Various techniques are offered within the yoga traditions for methods of controlling or regulation of the breath. Practicing these techniques, it is advisable to follow the advice of your yoga teacher, or one who is acquainted with the effects of these techniques. (I know you are, Rumi!)
The breath can be regulated by duration of inhale or exhale, location of breath, or by how number. There is a natural occurrence of a cessation of the breath, in which the ingoing and outgoing breath, merge as it were, in their dance together. This is observable at the turning of each breath, and one can become aware of it even when not doing a formal pranayama practice. A more advanced practice is that of extending the pause, although as Rumi comments, it is an effortless effort.
Investigating the pause between the incoming and outgoing breath, the point of stillness, is a lovely offering of the mind's attention to the dance of prana.
Let's begin a discussion about pranayama experiences during asana practice. What pranayam techniques do you use during your asana practice? Ujjayi, Wave or Full Yogic Breath, do you ever do Kapalabhati during asana practice? Do you ever forget to breathe!!
answer:
Prana is the life energy - yama is traditionally referred to as a restraint of the breath. Various techniques are offered within the yoga traditions for methods of controlling or regulation of the breath. Practicing these techniques, it is advisable to follow the advice of your yoga teacher, or one who is acquainted with the effects of these techniques. (I know you are, Rumi!)
The breath can be regulated by duration of inhale or exhale, location of breath, or by how number. There is a natural occurrence of a cessation of the breath, in which the ingoing and outgoing breath, merge as it were, in their dance together. This is observable at the turning of each breath, and one can become aware of it even when not doing a formal pranayama practice. A more advanced practice is that of extending the pause, although as Rumi comments, it is an effortless effort.
Investigating the pause between the incoming and outgoing breath, the point of stillness, is a lovely offering of the mind's attention to the dance of prana.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
meditation and stress reduction
Question:
Meditation is currently being explored and used to advantage in many cases of stress and pain management. Often, this leads the practitioner to a deeper interest in exploring the benefits of meditation for the more traditional spiritual purposes. Meditation has been proven to alter the brain wave pattern from one of high to one of low activity waves, associated with a state of alert relaxation. However, to the person who is anxious or over stimulated, the "monkey mind" is an obstacle and the experience of letting go of the tension seems out of reach, and may exacerbate their experience of tension! Do you have any comments to share about meditation and stress reduction?
Answer:
Using a meditation technique to help to stabilize the wandering mind is useful. Traditionally the breath is a focal tool, although many people also use a mantra or an image as a focal point. Letting go a "wish" or "goal" in meditation to rid the mind of thoughts is helpful as well. The mind's nature is one of generating thoughts. In meditation, one practices detachment from the thoughts by simply observing them when they occur, and remaining focused on the chosen object of meditation.
In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, Meditation (Dhyana) is the 7th limb of practice - it is described as an uninterrupted flow of attention to the object which one has chosen to meditate. (For those interested, Patanjali offers suggestions for choosing one's object of meditation and discusses also meditation without form). For most of us, this is a fleeting moment of one pointed attention, before we find ourselves distracted again by the turnings of the mind.
Related practices to support a daily meditation practice include the other limbs of Ashtanga yoga - yama and niyama (social and personal behaviors and disciplines), asana (to quiet the body and mind), pranayama (breathing techniques which can serve to increase one's awareness) and pratyahara (the practice of turning the senses inward as we begin to explore the inner realm).
In my opinion, the intention to practice meditation on a regular daily schedule is supported by these practices, and the tendency for the monkey mind to be a real distraction is reduced by practicing detachment from results. This requires a gentle reminder for the mind to return to the focal point anytime you notice that it has wandered, and allows us to practice lots of compasion with ourselves as the process occurs over and over again! In time, the mind will begin to follow the direction which the meditator choses.
Meanwhile, daily reflections provide an opportunity to let go of the need to DO anything, and simply BE - just show up at the cushion and sit! There is no judge or jury to decide if it was done properly or not! A few minutes of asana to prepare the body, and some pranayama to settle your attention on the breath will support your intention to just being with your self.
Hope these thoughts have been helpful TOK!
Meditation is currently being explored and used to advantage in many cases of stress and pain management. Often, this leads the practitioner to a deeper interest in exploring the benefits of meditation for the more traditional spiritual purposes. Meditation has been proven to alter the brain wave pattern from one of high to one of low activity waves, associated with a state of alert relaxation. However, to the person who is anxious or over stimulated, the "monkey mind" is an obstacle and the experience of letting go of the tension seems out of reach, and may exacerbate their experience of tension! Do you have any comments to share about meditation and stress reduction?
Answer:
Using a meditation technique to help to stabilize the wandering mind is useful. Traditionally the breath is a focal tool, although many people also use a mantra or an image as a focal point. Letting go a "wish" or "goal" in meditation to rid the mind of thoughts is helpful as well. The mind's nature is one of generating thoughts. In meditation, one practices detachment from the thoughts by simply observing them when they occur, and remaining focused on the chosen object of meditation.
In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, Meditation (Dhyana) is the 7th limb of practice - it is described as an uninterrupted flow of attention to the object which one has chosen to meditate. (For those interested, Patanjali offers suggestions for choosing one's object of meditation and discusses also meditation without form). For most of us, this is a fleeting moment of one pointed attention, before we find ourselves distracted again by the turnings of the mind.
Related practices to support a daily meditation practice include the other limbs of Ashtanga yoga - yama and niyama (social and personal behaviors and disciplines), asana (to quiet the body and mind), pranayama (breathing techniques which can serve to increase one's awareness) and pratyahara (the practice of turning the senses inward as we begin to explore the inner realm).
In my opinion, the intention to practice meditation on a regular daily schedule is supported by these practices, and the tendency for the monkey mind to be a real distraction is reduced by practicing detachment from results. This requires a gentle reminder for the mind to return to the focal point anytime you notice that it has wandered, and allows us to practice lots of compasion with ourselves as the process occurs over and over again! In time, the mind will begin to follow the direction which the meditator choses.
Meanwhile, daily reflections provide an opportunity to let go of the need to DO anything, and simply BE - just show up at the cushion and sit! There is no judge or jury to decide if it was done properly or not! A few minutes of asana to prepare the body, and some pranayama to settle your attention on the breath will support your intention to just being with your self.
Hope these thoughts have been helpful TOK!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
A different kind of yoga....
Question:
I have been practicing a different kind of yoga, if we can define it in that way. My teacher started doing kenpo karate 25 years ago, and about 20 years ago they went to Okinawa to improve their technique. There they studied a "special" kind of warm up - cool down exercise system which is, by the words of my teacher, a Chinese derivation of yoga.
We do some poses of standard yoga but constantly in movement (that's why I call them poses and not asanas), sometimes slow but mainly fast movements (two different poses are not directly connected, so i wouldn't call it power yoga). The teacher says that the rhythm of the exercises has been slowed down to allow us to do it until we develop enough strength and flexibility to do them even faster. He also says that this is because in China the climatic situation is different than in India so the workout must be more vigorous.
Has anyone of you ever heard of such "yoga"?
I must say that in the beginning I started to loosen up a bit but after 5 months of practise I gained in muscular mass (and strength) and now it interferes with the flexibility i gained. Since there are may ways to actually do yoga, can this be "correct"?
Answer:
There are many different paths that arrive at the same destination! The question is where do you want to get to! Apart from Surya Namaskara (Sun Salutation) - yoga asanas should not be practiced in haste. Slow and smoothe are the key words.
I have been practicing a different kind of yoga, if we can define it in that way. My teacher started doing kenpo karate 25 years ago, and about 20 years ago they went to Okinawa to improve their technique. There they studied a "special" kind of warm up - cool down exercise system which is, by the words of my teacher, a Chinese derivation of yoga.
We do some poses of standard yoga but constantly in movement (that's why I call them poses and not asanas), sometimes slow but mainly fast movements (two different poses are not directly connected, so i wouldn't call it power yoga). The teacher says that the rhythm of the exercises has been slowed down to allow us to do it until we develop enough strength and flexibility to do them even faster. He also says that this is because in China the climatic situation is different than in India so the workout must be more vigorous.
Has anyone of you ever heard of such "yoga"?
I must say that in the beginning I started to loosen up a bit but after 5 months of practise I gained in muscular mass (and strength) and now it interferes with the flexibility i gained. Since there are may ways to actually do yoga, can this be "correct"?
Answer:
There are many different paths that arrive at the same destination! The question is where do you want to get to! Apart from Surya Namaskara (Sun Salutation) - yoga asanas should not be practiced in haste. Slow and smoothe are the key words.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Yoga mat recommendations please
Question:
Hi, can anyone please recommend a yoga mat that is definitely non-slip. I have bought two over the last year or so but they have no grip whatsoever. I have tried washing them etc but no change. I have heard that the natural material ones are best, but as they are pretty pricey I would appreciate some views, especially from teachers, before I go ahead and get one. Many thanks, N
answer:
Used to be all the eco-friendly mats were all up there in price but there are certainly less expensive options now (including from barefoot) so if that's an important criteria keep looking.
But there's several aspects to eco-friendly. One is whether the mat is good for you (PVC contains chemicals that are now widely considered to be bad for you.) Then there is how friendly the manufacturing process and material is to the environment. And durability matters, the mats made of natural materials from most accounts don't last as long, so you'll eventually buy more mats, not so eco friendly even if you find a reuse for the old one.
I have a Manduka black mat which is great. It's not advertised as an eco mat but I think I read someplace they are mostly polyester and little PVC so maybe not too bad for you if that's true. While it's a man-made material they claim the manufacturing is relatively eco-friendly. And they are so durable they last practically forever and won't wind up in the landfill anytime soon, so that's good (and cheaper in the long term even though it's another expensive mat.)
I also have a Manduka Eko Mat, which is pretty nice but I can already see it will wear out at some point, long before the black mat ever would. So eco-friendly in some ways but not necessarily all.
Every mat I've had has smelled somehow at first, but with a cleaning and airing it has always gone away after awhile. Actually I have an inexpensive PVC mat too that was a gift, it never smelled like my more expensive mats did when new.
Hi, can anyone please recommend a yoga mat that is definitely non-slip. I have bought two over the last year or so but they have no grip whatsoever. I have tried washing them etc but no change. I have heard that the natural material ones are best, but as they are pretty pricey I would appreciate some views, especially from teachers, before I go ahead and get one. Many thanks, N
answer:
Used to be all the eco-friendly mats were all up there in price but there are certainly less expensive options now (including from barefoot) so if that's an important criteria keep looking.
But there's several aspects to eco-friendly. One is whether the mat is good for you (PVC contains chemicals that are now widely considered to be bad for you.) Then there is how friendly the manufacturing process and material is to the environment. And durability matters, the mats made of natural materials from most accounts don't last as long, so you'll eventually buy more mats, not so eco friendly even if you find a reuse for the old one.
I have a Manduka black mat which is great. It's not advertised as an eco mat but I think I read someplace they are mostly polyester and little PVC so maybe not too bad for you if that's true. While it's a man-made material they claim the manufacturing is relatively eco-friendly. And they are so durable they last practically forever and won't wind up in the landfill anytime soon, so that's good (and cheaper in the long term even though it's another expensive mat.)
I also have a Manduka Eko Mat, which is pretty nice but I can already see it will wear out at some point, long before the black mat ever would. So eco-friendly in some ways but not necessarily all.
Every mat I've had has smelled somehow at first, but with a cleaning and airing it has always gone away after awhile. Actually I have an inexpensive PVC mat too that was a gift, it never smelled like my more expensive mats did when new.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Bikram Teacher Training
Question:
I am Bikram yoga student interested in attending the teacher training. I would therefore like to hear experiences of Bikram teachers, how they found the experience of the teacher training, how going through the process of the training affected them personally, mentally, physically etc.
I currently feel more motivated by the personal development benefits of the training as I am still unsure as to whether I would want to become a full time teacher. I would therefore be interested to know how the training shaped your views on teaching/becoming a teacher, how effective the course was in providing the skills & confidence to become a teacher.
How prepared would you suggest a student becomes for the teacher training, in terms of intensity of practice and study of yoga in general, leading up to the training itself.
Answer:
Teacher training for me was a beautiful, challenging experience that enabled me to bring Bikram method yoga to Brighton and to share this fantastic series and it's benefits. However,if you are going on training to deepen your own practice I wouldn't advise it. You can practice 2x a day on a 3 mth unlimited & learn so much! Bikram is now only allowing students with a developed practice and need to teach onto training. I practiced for 2 years before I went, and should have waited another 5 to have benefitted from it more....This is only my opinion, but I feel you will KNOW when you are ready for TT, your teacher will recommend you and it will have become obvious to you that you are ready..
I am Bikram yoga student interested in attending the teacher training. I would therefore like to hear experiences of Bikram teachers, how they found the experience of the teacher training, how going through the process of the training affected them personally, mentally, physically etc.
I currently feel more motivated by the personal development benefits of the training as I am still unsure as to whether I would want to become a full time teacher. I would therefore be interested to know how the training shaped your views on teaching/becoming a teacher, how effective the course was in providing the skills & confidence to become a teacher.
How prepared would you suggest a student becomes for the teacher training, in terms of intensity of practice and study of yoga in general, leading up to the training itself.
Answer:
Teacher training for me was a beautiful, challenging experience that enabled me to bring Bikram method yoga to Brighton and to share this fantastic series and it's benefits. However,if you are going on training to deepen your own practice I wouldn't advise it. You can practice 2x a day on a 3 mth unlimited & learn so much! Bikram is now only allowing students with a developed practice and need to teach onto training. I practiced for 2 years before I went, and should have waited another 5 to have benefitted from it more....This is only my opinion, but I feel you will KNOW when you are ready for TT, your teacher will recommend you and it will have become obvious to you that you are ready..
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Bikram yoga teacher training tips
Question:
Hello,
I'm planning to do the b yoga training next year either Apr or Sept depending on how much money i can save during this year.
Would love to hear if anyone has suggestions on where to stay in LA other than the accomodation provided thru the bikram's school as i'm planning to rent a self contained apt and possibly share with a fellow trainee or two. two thousand us dollars for the 8 weeks sounds a bit pricey in dormitory conditions. What are your thoughts ?
Suggested apt locations, apt names near and websites near the school or close enough with public transportation would be greatly appreciated
Thanks !
Namaste.
Answer
brilliant that you are going on training.
the dorms are expensive but if you can afford it they are a great way to meet people and get the support from people during the training and totally immerse yourself in it.
have you contacted oakwood apartments direct to see if they can offer you a better deal? you should look on the main headquarters website - there are normally people advertising rooms to rent closer to the time of training. Or you could e-mail Shelly or Reut at headquarters and ask if they know of anyone.
get in touch when you return if you are looking for teaching position!
Hello,
I'm planning to do the b yoga training next year either Apr or Sept depending on how much money i can save during this year.
Would love to hear if anyone has suggestions on where to stay in LA other than the accomodation provided thru the bikram's school as i'm planning to rent a self contained apt and possibly share with a fellow trainee or two. two thousand us dollars for the 8 weeks sounds a bit pricey in dormitory conditions. What are your thoughts ?
Suggested apt locations, apt names near and websites near the school or close enough with public transportation would be greatly appreciated
Thanks !
Namaste.
Answer
brilliant that you are going on training.
the dorms are expensive but if you can afford it they are a great way to meet people and get the support from people during the training and totally immerse yourself in it.
have you contacted oakwood apartments direct to see if they can offer you a better deal? you should look on the main headquarters website - there are normally people advertising rooms to rent closer to the time of training. Or you could e-mail Shelly or Reut at headquarters and ask if they know of anyone.
get in touch when you return if you are looking for teaching position!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Friday, December 4, 2009
How about Yoga for Wii
Want more yoga for Wii?
Answer:
We use Wii fit in our clinic to help with rehab.
Yoga is a great product to use during the sub acute phase since it does not stress the patient and it encourages full range of motion with steadiness and balance.
Some evidence suggests that yoga instructors can damage healthy joints by trying to hold poses that are difficult, the Wii fit has a picture of an instructor who does not seem to be affected!
As always to quality of Yoga seems to be in the quality of the instructor.
Like the yoga on the Wii fit.However, it is pretty basic.I usually follow a dvd that is more challenging.
That is the great thing about yoga though ...
Answer:
We use Wii fit in our clinic to help with rehab.
Yoga is a great product to use during the sub acute phase since it does not stress the patient and it encourages full range of motion with steadiness and balance.
Some evidence suggests that yoga instructors can damage healthy joints by trying to hold poses that are difficult, the Wii fit has a picture of an instructor who does not seem to be affected!
As always to quality of Yoga seems to be in the quality of the instructor.
Like the yoga on the Wii fit.However, it is pretty basic.I usually follow a dvd that is more challenging.
That is the great thing about yoga though ...
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Yoga for the Cancer Patients
Question:
I would like to know about Yoga for the Cancer Patients. Is there are any contraindications? What Asanas are best for them?
Answer
For cancer patients the practices are not so much focused on what asanas but rather on what qualities to promote. The major feelings would be to develop strength and stamina. The other quality to promote is purification. Classical hatha yogis recommend Kapalabhati (head shining) done to purify the kledaka kapha stored in the abdomen. This practice, one of the satkarmas (purifications), is not simply a pranayama. It is done by the directing of pranic will to purify the physical body. As cancer is predominantly a kapha disorder the practices should be done also to help open the heart, kapha’s home region. The teacher needs to open their own heart to nature and life prior to going into the setting to work. Prayer and meditation are a central practice to promote this openness. Asanas that increase immune function include restorative poses from Iyengar Yoga like supported bridge, fish, and Shoulderstand. Also the poses on their own when the strength has been built. Then the progression is to increase the holding time, the heart connection, and one’s feeling of positivity as radiating from a connection to one’s personal Higher Power. The spiritual side of asana as a way to the Divine is emphasized.
I would like to know about Yoga for the Cancer Patients. Is there are any contraindications? What Asanas are best for them?
Answer
For cancer patients the practices are not so much focused on what asanas but rather on what qualities to promote. The major feelings would be to develop strength and stamina. The other quality to promote is purification. Classical hatha yogis recommend Kapalabhati (head shining) done to purify the kledaka kapha stored in the abdomen. This practice, one of the satkarmas (purifications), is not simply a pranayama. It is done by the directing of pranic will to purify the physical body. As cancer is predominantly a kapha disorder the practices should be done also to help open the heart, kapha’s home region. The teacher needs to open their own heart to nature and life prior to going into the setting to work. Prayer and meditation are a central practice to promote this openness. Asanas that increase immune function include restorative poses from Iyengar Yoga like supported bridge, fish, and Shoulderstand. Also the poses on their own when the strength has been built. Then the progression is to increase the holding time, the heart connection, and one’s feeling of positivity as radiating from a connection to one’s personal Higher Power. The spiritual side of asana as a way to the Divine is emphasized.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Udana Prana Practice
Question:
A student of my wants to develop his udana prana to help with his singing. What besides Shoulderstand and fish can he do?
Answer:
First of all let me clarify Udana Prana. It is a prana that moves upward from the chest thus on a physical level its function is to expel unwanted material by coughing or vomiting; emotionally it makes us feel uplifted and open in the chest thus lungs are more fully open; spiritually it becomes the kundalini to awaken our potential and move our attention beyond the physical, emotional, and mental levels to that of pure Spirit. Going upside down, expanding the chest, and backbends in general are a physical way to stimulate the prana and may help promote the function of organs in the upper torso.
For singing purposes the main practices I have found in couching is to do Bhastrika during asanas, and then run the scales while holding spinal twists and backbends. The major muscle to develop is the diaphragm for this Uddiyana bandha and Agnisar dhouti should be learned provided he has no heart or blood pressure difficulties. These need both be learned directly from yogi not from a book.
A student of my wants to develop his udana prana to help with his singing. What besides Shoulderstand and fish can he do?
Answer:
First of all let me clarify Udana Prana. It is a prana that moves upward from the chest thus on a physical level its function is to expel unwanted material by coughing or vomiting; emotionally it makes us feel uplifted and open in the chest thus lungs are more fully open; spiritually it becomes the kundalini to awaken our potential and move our attention beyond the physical, emotional, and mental levels to that of pure Spirit. Going upside down, expanding the chest, and backbends in general are a physical way to stimulate the prana and may help promote the function of organs in the upper torso.
For singing purposes the main practices I have found in couching is to do Bhastrika during asanas, and then run the scales while holding spinal twists and backbends. The major muscle to develop is the diaphragm for this Uddiyana bandha and Agnisar dhouti should be learned provided he has no heart or blood pressure difficulties. These need both be learned directly from yogi not from a book.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Do you like yoga life?
Question:
Since i gave birth to my daughter 7 monghts ago, I have never done any exercises. I think i must take on some kind of exercise to keep fit and also for health. So what about the yoga? Do you have some idea for that? Because i decide to join in a yoga team this weekend,which will take me 2000rmb a year.
Answer:
You have taken a good decision to join a yoga team.Yoga not only shapes your outer body but also tunes your inner organs too.At the same time,a sound mind will be a bonus,if you practice it regularly.Don't forget to mention any ailments you have to your master.They can suggest you the right yogas for you.Cheers!
Since i gave birth to my daughter 7 monghts ago, I have never done any exercises. I think i must take on some kind of exercise to keep fit and also for health. So what about the yoga? Do you have some idea for that? Because i decide to join in a yoga team this weekend,which will take me 2000rmb a year.
Answer:
You have taken a good decision to join a yoga team.Yoga not only shapes your outer body but also tunes your inner organs too.At the same time,a sound mind will be a bonus,if you practice it regularly.Don't forget to mention any ailments you have to your master.They can suggest you the right yogas for you.Cheers!
Posted by
Beacon Lee
Can yoga cure autism?
Question:
Autism is a part of my life. My only daighter is suffering from autism. She is now 13 and has communication disorder also. She is on medication for last few years. Now a days i am thinking that the baby is forming medicinal dependency. Thats why i am looking for some alternative modes for curing her. Can yoga cure autism? Anyone has idea on this?
Have a great day.
Answer:
Nobody even knows what CAUSES autism. All they can do is keep trying different things to see what helps it.
Thank goodness that yoga can help in some cases.
Until they find a cause, they won't know what can cure it.
Autism is a part of my life. My only daighter is suffering from autism. She is now 13 and has communication disorder also. She is on medication for last few years. Now a days i am thinking that the baby is forming medicinal dependency. Thats why i am looking for some alternative modes for curing her. Can yoga cure autism? Anyone has idea on this?
Have a great day.
Answer:
Nobody even knows what CAUSES autism. All they can do is keep trying different things to see what helps it.
Thank goodness that yoga can help in some cases.
Until they find a cause, they won't know what can cure it.
Posted by
Beacon Lee
I am 30, is it too late to take up yoga?
Question:
I am not very flexible and have a very sedentary lifestyle.
I have been interested in Kundalini yoga for some time but never found the motivation to pursue it with passion.
Since most of the people I know who practice yoga have started in their childhood, I was wondering if it makes any sense for me to start at this age?
I have modified my diet substantially (vegan) but still do not exercise enough and as a result I don't feel that great.
Anyone who has gone through a similar phase?
Answer:
I started yoga almost 8 years ago--at age 32.
I was never flexible, not even as a child, but I've made a lot of progress through practice yoga regularly at home and attending occasional classes as well.
I still don't have a lot of natural flexibility, but my body can do so much more now, things that I never thought I'd be capable of, such as wheel pose (backbend), headstand, crow (arm balance)--I even recently kicked up to handstand on my own for the first time ever, at age 40 :D !
I am not very flexible and have a very sedentary lifestyle.
I have been interested in Kundalini yoga for some time but never found the motivation to pursue it with passion.
Since most of the people I know who practice yoga have started in their childhood, I was wondering if it makes any sense for me to start at this age?
I have modified my diet substantially (vegan) but still do not exercise enough and as a result I don't feel that great.
Anyone who has gone through a similar phase?
Answer:
I started yoga almost 8 years ago--at age 32.
I was never flexible, not even as a child, but I've made a lot of progress through practice yoga regularly at home and attending occasional classes as well.
I still don't have a lot of natural flexibility, but my body can do so much more now, things that I never thought I'd be capable of, such as wheel pose (backbend), headstand, crow (arm balance)--I even recently kicked up to handstand on my own for the first time ever, at age 40 :D !
Posted by
Beacon Lee
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