After a recent yoga workshop, Bob Gonzalez sat on the bamboo decked patio of the Santa Barbara Yoga Center. His face was glowing, a smile rippled across his lips. A hefty, middle aged man with a bad back and arthritis in his shoulder, Gonzalez was marveling at his yoga experience. He had been able to sit on the floor, relax into various positions, and stretch in ways that unknotted muscles and released tension.
He felt better than he had in years. Most important, he was looking forward to playing with his 15 month old granddaughter, who spends much of her day crawling on the carpeted floor. She was the reason he sought out yoga teacher Cheri Clampett’s Therapeutic Yoga class. 'Now I know I can do it,' said Gonzalez, breathing deeply. 'This was incredible.'
Instructor Cheri Clampett offers 'healing' yoga classes that focus on meditation and stretching positions rather than athletic moves.
Instructor Cheri Clampett offers 'healing' yoga classes that focus on meditation and stretching positions rather than athletic moves.
Gonzales is just the kind of person Clampett would like to reach with her style of 'healing' yoga. Many people incorrectly believe that yoga is an activity for the young and limber. Therapeutic yoga is not athletic. Rather, practitioners are helped into resting and stretching positions, propped up by pillows and blankets. Soft music is playing and the instructor gives suggestions about 'sinking deeper' and 'letting go.' Postures are held for several minutes to allow joints and muscles to move gently or relax. And teachers will do pleasing hands on adjustments; for instance, pressing on a shoulder to help 'open' it up.
Students are instructed to meditate on parts of the body that need help and healing. It's a time to connect with the body and be focused in the moment. Students are urged to keep their minds from wandering, from worrying about things outside the elegant walls of the yoga studio.
Clampett's classes are a respite from life's challenges, and they offer a path to wellness for everyone. Some who attend are generally healthy, but they work on a computer for several hours a day and need a physical counterbalance. Some, like Gonzalez, are hoping for relief from the ravages of age or injury. Others come to fight cancer or other life threatening disease.
By Cathy Murillo
THE LATEST YOGA THERAPY NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
A NEW YOGA SPA
The new Urban Yoga Spa at Fourth and Stewart is a contemporary Downtown sanctuary that combines upstairs spa services with a downstairs yoga practice. And while the spa may not have reinvented the wheel in terms of the services it offers, the selection is varied and includes some affordable express treatments.
Facials range from $45 for 30 minutes to $125 for 90 minutes; massages from $50 for 30 minutes to $120 for 90 minutes. Manicures are $25 to $30, and pedicures are $40 to $65; combine the two for $55. Waxing starts at $15 for lip, chin or jaw line, and tops out at $80 for a Brazilian. Eyelash extensions are $200 for a full set.
The spa also offers treatments for men and pregnant women, as well as one and a half to five hour packages ($120 to $308).
With its stark white walls, cabinetry, and manicure and pedicure stations, the sleek spa acts as a kind of sensory deprivation chamber, isolating you from the hubbub of the city, which you can glimpse through large windows.
Urban Yoga Spa offers hot yoga, which can burn up to 1,000 calories per session. Classes are held in heated studios (95 to 105 degrees) and cost $18 each. Buy a five class package ($80) and save $10, or a 10 class package and save $40.
One month, three month and annual packages are also available, as well as donation based classes on Saturdays and Sundays, and a Karma Yogi program that allows patrons to clean the spa in exchange for free yoga classes.
The spa's Raw program provides raw organic lunches ($12.50) Monday through Friday, prepared by local chef Adam Lewis. Lunches include such temptations as raw tacos, coconut noodle pad Thai and dark chocolate made with cacao, agave and a touch of vanilla. Lunch orders must be placed by 2 p.m. the day prior, at www.urbanyogaspa.com or (206) 422 0222.
By Alison Brownrigg
THE LATEST YOGA SPA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Facials range from $45 for 30 minutes to $125 for 90 minutes; massages from $50 for 30 minutes to $120 for 90 minutes. Manicures are $25 to $30, and pedicures are $40 to $65; combine the two for $55. Waxing starts at $15 for lip, chin or jaw line, and tops out at $80 for a Brazilian. Eyelash extensions are $200 for a full set.
The spa also offers treatments for men and pregnant women, as well as one and a half to five hour packages ($120 to $308).
With its stark white walls, cabinetry, and manicure and pedicure stations, the sleek spa acts as a kind of sensory deprivation chamber, isolating you from the hubbub of the city, which you can glimpse through large windows.
Urban Yoga Spa offers hot yoga, which can burn up to 1,000 calories per session. Classes are held in heated studios (95 to 105 degrees) and cost $18 each. Buy a five class package ($80) and save $10, or a 10 class package and save $40.
One month, three month and annual packages are also available, as well as donation based classes on Saturdays and Sundays, and a Karma Yogi program that allows patrons to clean the spa in exchange for free yoga classes.
The spa's Raw program provides raw organic lunches ($12.50) Monday through Friday, prepared by local chef Adam Lewis. Lunches include such temptations as raw tacos, coconut noodle pad Thai and dark chocolate made with cacao, agave and a touch of vanilla. Lunch orders must be placed by 2 p.m. the day prior, at www.urbanyogaspa.com or (206) 422 0222.
By Alison Brownrigg
THE LATEST YOGA SPA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Monday, 27 April 2009
POWER YOGA PROGRAMME
Blackhawk Fitness Boot Camp of Wichita is proud to announce the addition of Sherrie Hill to it's cadre of experienced, professional, and certified trainers. Sherrie brings with her years of experience in yoga, kickboxing, Hip Hop Hustle, and other forms of group fitness. She is now teaching twice per week at Blackhawk Fitness: East Campus, from 5:45am to 6:30am, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
"We are so incredibly excited to have someone of Sherrie's talent on our Cadre!" said Chief Everhart, owner and operator of Blackhawk Fitness Boot Camp.
Sherrie brings a superior mix of Yoga and Kickboxing to her class and makes her students melt the pounds away.
"Expect to burn up to 750 calories in the 45 minute class," Everhart said, "It's fast, effective, and best of all anyone can use their Boot Camp punch card to attend these classes!"
About Sherrie
Sherrie has been instructing and training fitness for more than 14 years. She is a Group Exercise certified instructor by ACE & AFFA.(Also certified by various other specialty formats.) She teaches most formats of group fitness, but Hip Hop Hustle is fast approaching one of her FAVORITES!!
For more information, visit their website at: http://www.GetFitWichita.com
THE LATEST POWER YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
"We are so incredibly excited to have someone of Sherrie's talent on our Cadre!" said Chief Everhart, owner and operator of Blackhawk Fitness Boot Camp.
Sherrie brings a superior mix of Yoga and Kickboxing to her class and makes her students melt the pounds away.
"Expect to burn up to 750 calories in the 45 minute class," Everhart said, "It's fast, effective, and best of all anyone can use their Boot Camp punch card to attend these classes!"
About Sherrie
Sherrie has been instructing and training fitness for more than 14 years. She is a Group Exercise certified instructor by ACE & AFFA.(Also certified by various other specialty formats.) She teaches most formats of group fitness, but Hip Hop Hustle is fast approaching one of her FAVORITES!!
For more information, visit their website at: http://www.GetFitWichita.com
THE LATEST POWER YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Saturday, 25 April 2009
THE YOGA CHOICES
As a nervous, squirrely type of person people have been telling me for years to try yoga. It will help you relax they said. The mind and body connection is like a natural high, you'll get addicted to it, I was told.
I have always exercised, walked, rode my bike, took aerobics classes and I confess that when alone in the house I dance up a storm. Yoga was going to be different but I thought it only fair to give it a shot. After I put it off for as long as I could I finally went to a class one weekday morning. The room was nice and quiet and pleasantly cool. Soft new age music in the background set a relaxing tone and I was ready.
During the first ten minutes or so I assumed the instructor was warming us up for other more energetic movements. Was I wrong. I soon learned that being bent at the waist with my palms on the floor while breathing deeply was not the warm up, it was the yoga. I looked around and wondered if the rest of the class felt like they were having a series of mini strokes as I was while waiting to change positions, but to my surprise they all looked blissfully relaxed.
I had no idea how I'd make it to the end of the class and I tapped my foot impatiently in my mind as I watched the clock. One more deep breath and I was sure I'd hit the mat face first.
I later reported to friends that apparently yoga isn't for everyone. Especially not squirrels.
By Teri Borseti
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
I have always exercised, walked, rode my bike, took aerobics classes and I confess that when alone in the house I dance up a storm. Yoga was going to be different but I thought it only fair to give it a shot. After I put it off for as long as I could I finally went to a class one weekday morning. The room was nice and quiet and pleasantly cool. Soft new age music in the background set a relaxing tone and I was ready.
During the first ten minutes or so I assumed the instructor was warming us up for other more energetic movements. Was I wrong. I soon learned that being bent at the waist with my palms on the floor while breathing deeply was not the warm up, it was the yoga. I looked around and wondered if the rest of the class felt like they were having a series of mini strokes as I was while waiting to change positions, but to my surprise they all looked blissfully relaxed.
I had no idea how I'd make it to the end of the class and I tapped my foot impatiently in my mind as I watched the clock. One more deep breath and I was sure I'd hit the mat face first.
I later reported to friends that apparently yoga isn't for everyone. Especially not squirrels.
By Teri Borseti
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Friday, 24 April 2009
YOGA AND YOUR SEX LIFE
Go ahead and trade in all your scented candles, lacy red nighties and silk sheets for the latest gadget that will ramp up your sex life: a yoga mat. The exercise we often connect to meditation and inner enlightenment is also linked to improved bedtime fun. A study published in the December 2008 edition of The Journal of Sexual Medicine showed women who were not satisfied with their sex life experienced heightened arousal and better orgasms when they practiced yoga. And this isn't just for ladies: another study published in the same journal in 2007 showed yoga was the most effective solution for men dealing with premature ejaculation in comparison to Prozac and non prescription drugs.
So, how does this understated activity lead to better sex? Here are the top five benefits your sex life can take away from yoga:
1. Heightened Awareness and Concentration
Yoga teaches people to be more aware of their breathing and their bodies while letting go of mental distractions. This translates directly to better sex. When you're able to concentrate on what your body is feeling instead of a sink full of dirty dishes, for instance, you can undeniably enjoy sexual activities much more.
2. Greater Flexibility and Strength
Nothing can bring more fun to the bed than a body that's ready to rock. Yoga is an excellent fitness tool that not only conditions and strengthens the muscles, but also improves your flexibility range and joint health. Just imagine all the daring positions you can try out after a few weeks of yoga practice! Improving your muscle strength and fitness level will raise your energy and stamina during sex, too.
3. A New Kind of Foreplay
If your partner is up to it, add in several minutes of couples yoga before sex as a kind of foreplay. A few yoga moves can relax your nerves and get your circulation going: just what you need to get you in the mood after a long day. Plus, practicing yoga together helps you connect in a new way.
4. Acceptance and Confidence
One of the priceless benefits yoga offers is a new sense of confidence in one's self. Yoga promotes being aware of your body and accepting it. When you realize what you appreciate about yourself, it gives you the freedom to offer more in the bedroom. Sexual confidence is incredibly freeing and can really open the door to better sex.
5. An Awesome Finale
Well, it all adds up to one thing: better orgasms. Between improved circulation, heightened awareness and more energy, you are primed for a great climax. Plus, positions that strengthen your pelvic core can give your orgasms a definite "wow" factor.
Okay, so maybe you don't exactly want to throw out your sexy lingerie, but yoga is certainly a great way to spice things up in the bedroom in addition to its health benefits. Better sex is just one more (very fun) reason to appreciate this amazing form of exercise.
By Elizabeth Walling
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
So, how does this understated activity lead to better sex? Here are the top five benefits your sex life can take away from yoga:
1. Heightened Awareness and Concentration
Yoga teaches people to be more aware of their breathing and their bodies while letting go of mental distractions. This translates directly to better sex. When you're able to concentrate on what your body is feeling instead of a sink full of dirty dishes, for instance, you can undeniably enjoy sexual activities much more.
2. Greater Flexibility and Strength
Nothing can bring more fun to the bed than a body that's ready to rock. Yoga is an excellent fitness tool that not only conditions and strengthens the muscles, but also improves your flexibility range and joint health. Just imagine all the daring positions you can try out after a few weeks of yoga practice! Improving your muscle strength and fitness level will raise your energy and stamina during sex, too.
3. A New Kind of Foreplay
If your partner is up to it, add in several minutes of couples yoga before sex as a kind of foreplay. A few yoga moves can relax your nerves and get your circulation going: just what you need to get you in the mood after a long day. Plus, practicing yoga together helps you connect in a new way.
4. Acceptance and Confidence
One of the priceless benefits yoga offers is a new sense of confidence in one's self. Yoga promotes being aware of your body and accepting it. When you realize what you appreciate about yourself, it gives you the freedom to offer more in the bedroom. Sexual confidence is incredibly freeing and can really open the door to better sex.
5. An Awesome Finale
Well, it all adds up to one thing: better orgasms. Between improved circulation, heightened awareness and more energy, you are primed for a great climax. Plus, positions that strengthen your pelvic core can give your orgasms a definite "wow" factor.
Okay, so maybe you don't exactly want to throw out your sexy lingerie, but yoga is certainly a great way to spice things up in the bedroom in addition to its health benefits. Better sex is just one more (very fun) reason to appreciate this amazing form of exercise.
By Elizabeth Walling
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Thursday, 23 April 2009
YOGA SHALA NEWS
"Down, dog," is taking on new meaning at yoga studios across the U.S.
Yoga classes for owners and their dogs, yes, classes with their dogs, are spreading like fleas in some American cities.
The phenomenon does not appear to have reached Canada yet. It originated not in California, land of fruit and nuts, but actually in Manhattan seven years ago.
Now doga classes have reached the West Coast and several cities between.
It's touted as a way to bond with your pet and together make your bodies more limber and minds more clear.
Programmers at the PawsWay pet discovery centre at Harbourfront are looking for doga instructor for a planned doggy spa weekend in July, says Mike Macbeth. Anyone interested should contact pawsway.ca.
But for the time being you'll have to try it elsewhere, if you're interested.
"I don't know of anybody who has done it here," says Dorothy Guerra, president of the Ontario Yoga Association.
The Star found no positive responses in looking for doga classes at Toronto yoga studios, but did get laughs.
Pets are not expected to perfect all the classic yoga positions, but the attempt is the point. Most classes involve massage and gently stretches of the dog's limbs.
In chaturanga, dogs sit with their front paws in the air while their human partners provide support.
In an "upward-paw pose," or sun salutation, owners lift dogs onto their hind legs.
In a resting pose, the person reclines, with legs slightly bent over the dog's torso, bolster style, to relieve pressure on the spine.
Doga is not universally embraced. It's been criticized as another example of multitasking and some believe it turns the revered, 2,500 year old practice into a fad.
Certification isn't necessary, though seminars exist. One is taught by Seattle's Brenda Bryan, who wrote Barking Buddha: Simple Soul Stretches for Yogi and Dogi, available through Amazon.
Maybe it's not so far fetched. Downward Facing Dog is the best known yoga position, but other poses are named for cats, lions, eagles, dolphins, camels and fish.
Yoga student Shelley Snow says dogs don't need doga. "Animals stretch in the most natural way to them, it's instinctual," she says. "Animals teach us how to stretch."
Snow, who takes classes and works the phones at Bliss Yoga Studio, says she can't imagine a person or animal getting a good workout together, but it's probably no worse than what new mothers get from Yoga and Baby sessions. "We all love to be touched and caressed. Most animals love that."
By Barbara Turnbull
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Yoga classes for owners and their dogs, yes, classes with their dogs, are spreading like fleas in some American cities.
The phenomenon does not appear to have reached Canada yet. It originated not in California, land of fruit and nuts, but actually in Manhattan seven years ago.
Now doga classes have reached the West Coast and several cities between.
It's touted as a way to bond with your pet and together make your bodies more limber and minds more clear.
Programmers at the PawsWay pet discovery centre at Harbourfront are looking for doga instructor for a planned doggy spa weekend in July, says Mike Macbeth. Anyone interested should contact pawsway.ca.
But for the time being you'll have to try it elsewhere, if you're interested.
"I don't know of anybody who has done it here," says Dorothy Guerra, president of the Ontario Yoga Association.
The Star found no positive responses in looking for doga classes at Toronto yoga studios, but did get laughs.
Pets are not expected to perfect all the classic yoga positions, but the attempt is the point. Most classes involve massage and gently stretches of the dog's limbs.
In chaturanga, dogs sit with their front paws in the air while their human partners provide support.
In an "upward-paw pose," or sun salutation, owners lift dogs onto their hind legs.
In a resting pose, the person reclines, with legs slightly bent over the dog's torso, bolster style, to relieve pressure on the spine.
Doga is not universally embraced. It's been criticized as another example of multitasking and some believe it turns the revered, 2,500 year old practice into a fad.
Certification isn't necessary, though seminars exist. One is taught by Seattle's Brenda Bryan, who wrote Barking Buddha: Simple Soul Stretches for Yogi and Dogi, available through Amazon.
Maybe it's not so far fetched. Downward Facing Dog is the best known yoga position, but other poses are named for cats, lions, eagles, dolphins, camels and fish.
Yoga student Shelley Snow says dogs don't need doga. "Animals stretch in the most natural way to them, it's instinctual," she says. "Animals teach us how to stretch."
Snow, who takes classes and works the phones at Bliss Yoga Studio, says she can't imagine a person or animal getting a good workout together, but it's probably no worse than what new mothers get from Yoga and Baby sessions. "We all love to be touched and caressed. Most animals love that."
By Barbara Turnbull
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
MORE ON THE YOGA DEBATE
The other day as I arrived at my yoga class, a few of the women also waiting to take the class were having a heated discussion. I settled into child's pose so I could inconspicuously eavesdrop on their conversation. They were outraged over a new policy at the yoga studio, No Cell Phones On During Class. I was stunned that this issue was prevalent enough to warrant an actual policy. How is it possible to use your cell phone in downward facing dog pose?
woman chatting in a yoga class
"I need to have my phone on at all times" one woman declared, "If they call me from Kyle's school, I have to answer."
"I totally agree." her friend replied "This is bullsh*t! My phone needs to be on in case Maddie needs me."
I have been going to yoga classes for my children's entire lives and never once have I considered bringing in my cell phone. What if my kids have been needing me all this time but I couldn't be reached? I imagined Shane sitting on a therapist's couch as an adult and processing his feelings of abandonment over the fact that I left him with a babysitter so I could salute the sun.
I began to obsess on all the possible scenarios that would require my immediate attention illness, injury, a natural disaster, or a terrorist attack. What kind of narcissistic, piece of shit mother am I to relinquish my responsibilities so thoughtlessly in an effort to perfect my Warrior 1 Pose?
Wait a minute ... how did our parents do it without cell phones, Internet, or email? When I was a child my parents could not be contacted electronically, yet they were considerably more reachable than most of my friends, with all of their technological devices, are today. Is it possible that being physically and emotionally available involves more than having an unlimited calling plan with free nights and weekends?
Is this illusive idea of accessibility a realistic life lesson for our children? Is the fact that our kids can immediately call or text us with their most minor complaints teaching them how to effectively deal with life's natural stressors? Since they are so used to being able to instantly reach us, how are they supposed to develop the ability to think for themselves and effectively problem solve?
When do our kids have the opportunity to cultivate the quality of patience? Is the immediate gratification of cell phone contact preparing them for that inevitable moment when they will actually have to wait for something that they want?
In the event of an actual emergency, how would contacting me via cell phone really help the situation, anyway? If I don't trust the person that I leave my children with to respond to an urgent situation appropriately, than why am I allowing her to watch my kids in the first place?
But ... what if I am being a selfish beast for not keeping my cell phone on my person at all times, turned up to the loudest and most obnoxious ring tone, ready to respond to any crisis?
Oh, f*&# it. I am turning off my phone and leaving it in my car when I go to yoga. One of the most unrelenting facts of motherhood is that you must always be available for your children, day and night, including weekends and holidays. I need a psychological break, and the idea that I can't be reached by anyone for an hour and a half is an incredibly appealing concept, selfish or not.
I also need to have time to center myself so I can focus on the important things... like how I am going to get my yoga teacher's gorgeous abs and her amazing, Madonna-biceps. Namaste'!
By Jennifer Ginsberg
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
woman chatting in a yoga class
"I need to have my phone on at all times" one woman declared, "If they call me from Kyle's school, I have to answer."
"I totally agree." her friend replied "This is bullsh*t! My phone needs to be on in case Maddie needs me."
I have been going to yoga classes for my children's entire lives and never once have I considered bringing in my cell phone. What if my kids have been needing me all this time but I couldn't be reached? I imagined Shane sitting on a therapist's couch as an adult and processing his feelings of abandonment over the fact that I left him with a babysitter so I could salute the sun.
I began to obsess on all the possible scenarios that would require my immediate attention illness, injury, a natural disaster, or a terrorist attack. What kind of narcissistic, piece of shit mother am I to relinquish my responsibilities so thoughtlessly in an effort to perfect my Warrior 1 Pose?
Wait a minute ... how did our parents do it without cell phones, Internet, or email? When I was a child my parents could not be contacted electronically, yet they were considerably more reachable than most of my friends, with all of their technological devices, are today. Is it possible that being physically and emotionally available involves more than having an unlimited calling plan with free nights and weekends?
Is this illusive idea of accessibility a realistic life lesson for our children? Is the fact that our kids can immediately call or text us with their most minor complaints teaching them how to effectively deal with life's natural stressors? Since they are so used to being able to instantly reach us, how are they supposed to develop the ability to think for themselves and effectively problem solve?
When do our kids have the opportunity to cultivate the quality of patience? Is the immediate gratification of cell phone contact preparing them for that inevitable moment when they will actually have to wait for something that they want?
In the event of an actual emergency, how would contacting me via cell phone really help the situation, anyway? If I don't trust the person that I leave my children with to respond to an urgent situation appropriately, than why am I allowing her to watch my kids in the first place?
But ... what if I am being a selfish beast for not keeping my cell phone on my person at all times, turned up to the loudest and most obnoxious ring tone, ready to respond to any crisis?
Oh, f*&# it. I am turning off my phone and leaving it in my car when I go to yoga. One of the most unrelenting facts of motherhood is that you must always be available for your children, day and night, including weekends and holidays. I need a psychological break, and the idea that I can't be reached by anyone for an hour and a half is an incredibly appealing concept, selfish or not.
I also need to have time to center myself so I can focus on the important things... like how I am going to get my yoga teacher's gorgeous abs and her amazing, Madonna-biceps. Namaste'!
By Jennifer Ginsberg
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Sunday, 19 April 2009
USING YOGA TO ESCAPE
Yoga's gentle, healing nature can alleviate stress. Sitting, lying or standing on a mat forces the body to slow down and moves the brain away from life's distractions to a point of mental clarity.
'The human brain does not multi task very well,' says Carlyle Chan, professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Wauwatosa, Wis. 'The people who say they do so are not exactly accurate. When you are at the office and your phone rings, you get distracted. That's just the way the brain is structured.'
'Yoga focuses the mind on something else and helps you reset,' Chan says. 'The more you do it, the more effective it is.'
In today's frenetic world, where finding time to visit a studio might multiply the stress, an at home practice could be good medicine.
Before flowing through poses in your living room, take a few classes with a certified yoga instructor. The more confidence you have in the poses and postures, the better chance you'll be able to focus and practice with safety.
To ensure you have props for yoga at home, invest in a mat, strap, blocks (either wood or foam) and a thick, woven blanket. Practice in your bare feet and wear comfortable, tighter fitting clothing.
'Start today. Don't wait until you have the perfect setting,' says Marietta Pucillo, owner of Yama Yoga in Milwaukee's Third Ward. 'As long as it's a place to give you peace, it will be OK. Accept that wherever you are today is perfect. That's the principle of yoga, anyway.'
By Kristine Hansen
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
'The human brain does not multi task very well,' says Carlyle Chan, professor of psychiatry and behavioral medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Wauwatosa, Wis. 'The people who say they do so are not exactly accurate. When you are at the office and your phone rings, you get distracted. That's just the way the brain is structured.'
'Yoga focuses the mind on something else and helps you reset,' Chan says. 'The more you do it, the more effective it is.'
In today's frenetic world, where finding time to visit a studio might multiply the stress, an at home practice could be good medicine.
Before flowing through poses in your living room, take a few classes with a certified yoga instructor. The more confidence you have in the poses and postures, the better chance you'll be able to focus and practice with safety.
To ensure you have props for yoga at home, invest in a mat, strap, blocks (either wood or foam) and a thick, woven blanket. Practice in your bare feet and wear comfortable, tighter fitting clothing.
'Start today. Don't wait until you have the perfect setting,' says Marietta Pucillo, owner of Yama Yoga in Milwaukee's Third Ward. 'As long as it's a place to give you peace, it will be OK. Accept that wherever you are today is perfect. That's the principle of yoga, anyway.'
By Kristine Hansen
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Saturday, 18 April 2009
YOGA FOR THE REAR
Want to have the perfect and shapely butt a la Hollywood star Jennifer Lopez and Bollywood's very own beauty Malaika Arora Khan? If yes, then eat healthy, exercise, do yoga or else go under the knife, suggest experts.
According to Leena Mogre, it takes a good combination of a balanced diet as well as the right weight and fitness training for a woman to get a firm posterior.
"Women in India do have an innate tendency to put on weight on the butt. To keep them fit, it is very important to eat a balanced diet. Besides, one must get into a routine of weight training, squats, lunges, step ups and cardiovascular exercises," Mogre, who is the fitness trainer to Bollywood actresses like Katrina Kaif, Kangana Ranaut and Sameera Reddy among others, told IANS over phone from Mumbai.
"Even uphill running is a good option," added Mogre, who is the director of Leena Mogre's Fitness in India's entertainment capital.
Shiv Inder Singh, managing director of Firefox Bikes Pvt Ltd that offers a range of cycles designed for the body structure of women, feels that among cardio exercises cycling can really help in getting a well shaped butt.
"There are various important benefits that cycling can offer to women, out of which the main one being shaping their butt. Moderate cycling helps reduce 35 calories in about an hour that makes cycling an effective weight control activity," Singh explained.
Mogre agrees that cycling does help in shedding extra pounds, but weight training does the additional bit of shaping up the posterior.
Another option to get a perfect butt is yoga.
"More than men, women come to me for butt sculpting, but one has to first determine things like the body structure of the person, the requirement and the limitations of the person to chart a right module," said Yatharth Sehajpal, a Delhi based yoga expert.
"If the person is overweight and has flab, then first we have to work on tightening that extra fat and only then we can emphasise on the backside and there are various set of asanas and exercises that one can use for butt sculpting," he added.
Sehajpal's clients who emphasise a shapely butt are mostly women in their early 30s. Many of them are married. Some wish to get rid of their post pregnancy fat.
Thanks to increasing awareness, women in India have started talking about their dissatisfaction with their butt and are consulting cosmetic surgeons to solve their problem.
By www.hindu.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
According to Leena Mogre, it takes a good combination of a balanced diet as well as the right weight and fitness training for a woman to get a firm posterior.
"Women in India do have an innate tendency to put on weight on the butt. To keep them fit, it is very important to eat a balanced diet. Besides, one must get into a routine of weight training, squats, lunges, step ups and cardiovascular exercises," Mogre, who is the fitness trainer to Bollywood actresses like Katrina Kaif, Kangana Ranaut and Sameera Reddy among others, told IANS over phone from Mumbai.
"Even uphill running is a good option," added Mogre, who is the director of Leena Mogre's Fitness in India's entertainment capital.
Shiv Inder Singh, managing director of Firefox Bikes Pvt Ltd that offers a range of cycles designed for the body structure of women, feels that among cardio exercises cycling can really help in getting a well shaped butt.
"There are various important benefits that cycling can offer to women, out of which the main one being shaping their butt. Moderate cycling helps reduce 35 calories in about an hour that makes cycling an effective weight control activity," Singh explained.
Mogre agrees that cycling does help in shedding extra pounds, but weight training does the additional bit of shaping up the posterior.
Another option to get a perfect butt is yoga.
"More than men, women come to me for butt sculpting, but one has to first determine things like the body structure of the person, the requirement and the limitations of the person to chart a right module," said Yatharth Sehajpal, a Delhi based yoga expert.
"If the person is overweight and has flab, then first we have to work on tightening that extra fat and only then we can emphasise on the backside and there are various set of asanas and exercises that one can use for butt sculpting," he added.
Sehajpal's clients who emphasise a shapely butt are mostly women in their early 30s. Many of them are married. Some wish to get rid of their post pregnancy fat.
Thanks to increasing awareness, women in India have started talking about their dissatisfaction with their butt and are consulting cosmetic surgeons to solve their problem.
By www.hindu.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Friday, 17 April 2009
YOGA COMPETITIONS
Many people who try yoga give a Bikram yoga class a try. They're drawn to the fact that it's insanely hot and sweaty, and the poses are really challenging. The founder, Bikram Choudhury, has taken this practice to a whole other level. For a while now there have been yoga competitions all over the world, and Choudhury is hoping that it will become an Olympic sport. He says that "yoga competition is an old Indian tradition," since it's had a competitive dimension for over 2,000 years. He believes yoga won't lose any of its spiritual or emotional perks, but he's hoping yoga competitions will raise awareness about the overall benefits of yoga.
Do you think yoga competitions are an oxymoron, since yoga is supposed to be a personal experience that's not competitive? Or do you think it's a great way to encourage more people to do yoga and improve their practice?
By www.fitsugar.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Do you think yoga competitions are an oxymoron, since yoga is supposed to be a personal experience that's not competitive? Or do you think it's a great way to encourage more people to do yoga and improve their practice?
By www.fitsugar.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
A YOGA FUNDRAISER
On Saturday April 11th, the Sherman Oaks yoga community banded together for a yoga fundraiser held at Black Dog Yoga benefiting Yoga Gives Back, a Los Angeles organization that raises money and awareness of micro loans in India, the birthplace of yoga.
Micro loans are small amounts of money, sometimes as little as $25, and are invested in people, mostly women, who suffer from extreme poverty. Kicking off the workshop/fundraiser, Joel Bender, one of the founders of Yoga Gives Back, explained how Yoga Gives Back started and how the loans, about the cost of two yoga classes, make an enormous impact on peoples' lives by helping them start, sustain and grow their small businesses.
In 2006 Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a Bangladeshi economics professor, won the Nobel Peace Prize for his revolutionary work in microfinance through the Grameen Bank, a bank he founded to administer the loans. Yunus is changing the face of the poor by making them credit worthy. Generally, it takes money to make money. In order to get a loan, one has to put up collateral. Impoverished people usually don't have any collateral, thereby increasing poverty's vicious cycle.
If a woman wants to invest in a rickshaw her husband drives, or invest in a sewing machine, or parts for the sewing machine, they might need $20 or $40. When a bank doesn't entertain their business needs they will go to a lender of last resorts. Micro loans through the Grameen Bank eliminate the security risks involved with these transactions. As the loan recipients repay the loans, they begin to take their first steps out of poverty.
Yoga Gives Back co founder, Kayoko Mitsumatsu, a documentary filmmaker traveled in India and has interviewed Dr. Muhammad Yunus on various occasions. Seeing the immense poverty after a beautiful yoga practice, Kayoko said she 'felt a strong obligation to give back to the country that has given her the love of yoga.' She hopes that the Western yoga community will donate their time, money and passion to help the Yoga Gives Back cause.
By Leslie Hendry
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Micro loans are small amounts of money, sometimes as little as $25, and are invested in people, mostly women, who suffer from extreme poverty. Kicking off the workshop/fundraiser, Joel Bender, one of the founders of Yoga Gives Back, explained how Yoga Gives Back started and how the loans, about the cost of two yoga classes, make an enormous impact on peoples' lives by helping them start, sustain and grow their small businesses.
In 2006 Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a Bangladeshi economics professor, won the Nobel Peace Prize for his revolutionary work in microfinance through the Grameen Bank, a bank he founded to administer the loans. Yunus is changing the face of the poor by making them credit worthy. Generally, it takes money to make money. In order to get a loan, one has to put up collateral. Impoverished people usually don't have any collateral, thereby increasing poverty's vicious cycle.
If a woman wants to invest in a rickshaw her husband drives, or invest in a sewing machine, or parts for the sewing machine, they might need $20 or $40. When a bank doesn't entertain their business needs they will go to a lender of last resorts. Micro loans through the Grameen Bank eliminate the security risks involved with these transactions. As the loan recipients repay the loans, they begin to take their first steps out of poverty.
Yoga Gives Back co founder, Kayoko Mitsumatsu, a documentary filmmaker traveled in India and has interviewed Dr. Muhammad Yunus on various occasions. Seeing the immense poverty after a beautiful yoga practice, Kayoko said she 'felt a strong obligation to give back to the country that has given her the love of yoga.' She hopes that the Western yoga community will donate their time, money and passion to help the Yoga Gives Back cause.
By Leslie Hendry
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Monday, 13 April 2009
A NEW YOGA STORE
In conjunction with the Boneyard Arts Festival this coming weekend, the new Amara Yoga & Arts will debut with an art show in its new space on the east of Lincoln Square Village in Urbana.
Amara aims to showcase work by local artists, offer art workshops and art therapy for kids and adults. Yoga classes also will be offered. Yoga begins in May. The owners plan to have a variety of different yoga classes available, including classes for children, plus Pilates and meditation courses.
The people behind the venture are Theresa Brandabur, yoga studio director, and Kathryn Fitzgerald, the art director. Both are Champaign Urbana residents who met in San Francisco, where Fitzgerald ran an art gallery.
Both eventually moved back to the area and decided to open a "dual use" space, and they loved the space available in Lincoln Square. They renovated the area to include a studio, dressing rooms and a bathroom.
Amara's inaugural art show, "Somewhere Else, Paintings and Photographs by Lyosha," will be on display from April 18 to May 18. The opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. next Saturday.
The studio and gallery is located across from Cardinal Fitness and just south of the Great Impasta restaurant.
By Christine Des Garennes
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Amara aims to showcase work by local artists, offer art workshops and art therapy for kids and adults. Yoga classes also will be offered. Yoga begins in May. The owners plan to have a variety of different yoga classes available, including classes for children, plus Pilates and meditation courses.
The people behind the venture are Theresa Brandabur, yoga studio director, and Kathryn Fitzgerald, the art director. Both are Champaign Urbana residents who met in San Francisco, where Fitzgerald ran an art gallery.
Both eventually moved back to the area and decided to open a "dual use" space, and they loved the space available in Lincoln Square. They renovated the area to include a studio, dressing rooms and a bathroom.
Amara's inaugural art show, "Somewhere Else, Paintings and Photographs by Lyosha," will be on display from April 18 to May 18. The opening reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. next Saturday.
The studio and gallery is located across from Cardinal Fitness and just south of the Great Impasta restaurant.
By Christine Des Garennes
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Thursday, 9 April 2009
YOGA WITH YOUR DOG
If your dog walks on your yoga mat or gets in your way as you perform yoga poses, perhaps he is trying to join you! Maybe you should both give the new yoga craze called 'doga' a try.
Doga combines the practice of yoga with dog massage and stretching to create a fun, relaxing way to connect with your canine. Since both practicing yoga and spending time with a pet can lower blood pressure and stress levels, improving human health, why not put them both together? And the massage, stretching and bonding time benefit the dog, as well.
Seattle yoga instructor and massage therapist Brenda Bryan teaches doga classes in Capital Hill, West Seattle and Bellevue, blending classic Hatha yoga poses, massage and gentle stretching for both yogi and dogi. The relationship between human and dog is her primary focus.
By Ellen Chappelle
THE LATEST CANINE YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Doga combines the practice of yoga with dog massage and stretching to create a fun, relaxing way to connect with your canine. Since both practicing yoga and spending time with a pet can lower blood pressure and stress levels, improving human health, why not put them both together? And the massage, stretching and bonding time benefit the dog, as well.
Seattle yoga instructor and massage therapist Brenda Bryan teaches doga classes in Capital Hill, West Seattle and Bellevue, blending classic Hatha yoga poses, massage and gentle stretching for both yogi and dogi. The relationship between human and dog is her primary focus.
By Ellen Chappelle
THE LATEST CANINE YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Wednesday, 8 April 2009
YOGA AND WRESTLING
Phil Migliarese created 'Yoga for Fighters.' It was first designed to help jujitsu grapplers become more flexible and strong.
'To be a champion, you need to be fast, flexible, you need strength, all these attributes,' said Migliarese, co owner of Balance Studios in Philadelphia.
The class helps many fighters win titles, but Migliarese said it also has the tools to help everyday people reach a higher level of fitness. He said in 'Yoga for Fighters,' they hold positions longer, improving endurance. And the surface is less stable than what's used for traditional yoga so it works core strength and balance more.
The positions are similar to those used in Jiu Jitsu, and like any yoga, help improve flexibility. Rich Komar, a figher by night and patrol officer by day, says that aspect helps him avoid injuries. 'If you're flexible and your body is already lose, then you don't have problems with pulled muscles, twisted ankles, twisted knees,' he said.
Lauren Ancona says not only is she more flexible, but the class has also helped her slim down.
'It gives you a longer look in your legs,' she said, adding, 'I find my jeans are fitting better in certain places.'
The class is open to both men and women. It costs $11 per live class, b DVDs are also available.
If you'd like more information, visit: www.yogaforfighters.com
By Ali Gorman, R.N.
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
'To be a champion, you need to be fast, flexible, you need strength, all these attributes,' said Migliarese, co owner of Balance Studios in Philadelphia.
The class helps many fighters win titles, but Migliarese said it also has the tools to help everyday people reach a higher level of fitness. He said in 'Yoga for Fighters,' they hold positions longer, improving endurance. And the surface is less stable than what's used for traditional yoga so it works core strength and balance more.
The positions are similar to those used in Jiu Jitsu, and like any yoga, help improve flexibility. Rich Komar, a figher by night and patrol officer by day, says that aspect helps him avoid injuries. 'If you're flexible and your body is already lose, then you don't have problems with pulled muscles, twisted ankles, twisted knees,' he said.
Lauren Ancona says not only is she more flexible, but the class has also helped her slim down.
'It gives you a longer look in your legs,' she said, adding, 'I find my jeans are fitting better in certain places.'
The class is open to both men and women. It costs $11 per live class, b DVDs are also available.
If you'd like more information, visit: www.yogaforfighters.com
By Ali Gorman, R.N.
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
YOGA FOR EVERYONE
Yoga for Everyone, Acacia, 40 minutes, DVD, $14.99. Available at Amazon.com, www.acacia catalog.com and other retailers.
Just about any schoolteacher will tell you that certain students' names elicit smiles of happy anticipation when their papers reach the top of a stack being graded. The same thing happens when fitness video reviewers discover a new Hemalayaa DVD in the mailbox.
We just know it will delight, and that Hemalayaa will make us smile and laugh as we work out. The star of the Bollywood dance workouts has a reputation for being a playful, vivacious, and knowledgeable, instructor.
In Yoga for Everyone, available in stores Tuesday, Hemalayaa tells us that a yoga practice doesn't have to be a serious, solemn affair. It can be fun and, with her leading the way, we are free to make funny faces and noises, smile and feel happy. There could even be burbles of glee.
She also points out that a yoga session needn't be long. Doing a 20-minute routine every day is more beneficial than doing 90 minutes every now and then. Of course, we have no proof of this but if Hemalayaa says so ...
Since the DVD provides two 20-minute routines for our yoga pleasure, we can find out for ourselves. The routines contain basic poses such as downward facing dog, child, cat-cow, tree and cobra, but all have the Hemalayaa zing. We've seen no other yoga video in which exercisers are encouraged to scrunch their faces.
The routines are so similar that it doesn't matter which one you choose to do. Levels of difficulty and the pace of both are virtually the same. Both are suitable for beginning exercisers, as well as experienced people who'd like a relaxing, but merry diversion.
By www.nwanews.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Just about any schoolteacher will tell you that certain students' names elicit smiles of happy anticipation when their papers reach the top of a stack being graded. The same thing happens when fitness video reviewers discover a new Hemalayaa DVD in the mailbox.
We just know it will delight, and that Hemalayaa will make us smile and laugh as we work out. The star of the Bollywood dance workouts has a reputation for being a playful, vivacious, and knowledgeable, instructor.
In Yoga for Everyone, available in stores Tuesday, Hemalayaa tells us that a yoga practice doesn't have to be a serious, solemn affair. It can be fun and, with her leading the way, we are free to make funny faces and noises, smile and feel happy. There could even be burbles of glee.
She also points out that a yoga session needn't be long. Doing a 20-minute routine every day is more beneficial than doing 90 minutes every now and then. Of course, we have no proof of this but if Hemalayaa says so ...
Since the DVD provides two 20-minute routines for our yoga pleasure, we can find out for ourselves. The routines contain basic poses such as downward facing dog, child, cat-cow, tree and cobra, but all have the Hemalayaa zing. We've seen no other yoga video in which exercisers are encouraged to scrunch their faces.
The routines are so similar that it doesn't matter which one you choose to do. Levels of difficulty and the pace of both are virtually the same. Both are suitable for beginning exercisers, as well as experienced people who'd like a relaxing, but merry diversion.
By www.nwanews.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Sunday, 5 April 2009
FINDING PEACE THROUGH YOGA
Abhishek Shah, a Class VIII student of Loyola School, would smash window panes and flower vases whenever he heard a harsh word from his parents.
Taking note of his unusual rage, his parents made him join the art excel camp organised by the Art of Living Foundation.
The six day art excel course helped the student gain a calm mind, improved his concentration and helped him to master his temper.
Thirty students took part in the camp that began on March 30.
'I was weak in my studies and would be constantly pressurised by my parents, something that damaged my confidence. After this weeklong training I feel more positive. I understand that my parents have my best interests at heart and that I have to accept what they are saying with a smile and work harder,' said K. Jayantha Krishnan, a 10 year old of Little Flower School.
Jayantha and Abhishek are just two examples out of several.
Sudarshan kriya (the breathing technique taught at the camp) was a hit at the camp. The technique helps release hormones that make the mind calm and relaxed.
The camp was open to schoolchildren between ages eight and 14 years. 'In this day and age, children face a lot of stress. Parents, teachers and peer all pitch in to help. The result of the stress is poor concentration, depression, stress and fear that leads to the violent behaviour. The art excel course helps children gain peace through various yoga postures,' said Sunita Mukherjee, an art excel teacher with the Art of Living in Jamshedpur.
The course also helps to improve sleep, digestive system, hunger and retention power.
So does the course help at the end of the day, the children say it does. As 14 year old V. Shatabdi said: 'Recently a classmate called me dark and I just said thank you, when as, earlier, I would have been offended. Five minutes later, she came back and said that I was a nice human being. I was glad that I could make my classmate see something positive in me and change her attitude.'
By www.telegraphindia.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Taking note of his unusual rage, his parents made him join the art excel camp organised by the Art of Living Foundation.
The six day art excel course helped the student gain a calm mind, improved his concentration and helped him to master his temper.
Thirty students took part in the camp that began on March 30.
'I was weak in my studies and would be constantly pressurised by my parents, something that damaged my confidence. After this weeklong training I feel more positive. I understand that my parents have my best interests at heart and that I have to accept what they are saying with a smile and work harder,' said K. Jayantha Krishnan, a 10 year old of Little Flower School.
Jayantha and Abhishek are just two examples out of several.
Sudarshan kriya (the breathing technique taught at the camp) was a hit at the camp. The technique helps release hormones that make the mind calm and relaxed.
The camp was open to schoolchildren between ages eight and 14 years. 'In this day and age, children face a lot of stress. Parents, teachers and peer all pitch in to help. The result of the stress is poor concentration, depression, stress and fear that leads to the violent behaviour. The art excel course helps children gain peace through various yoga postures,' said Sunita Mukherjee, an art excel teacher with the Art of Living in Jamshedpur.
The course also helps to improve sleep, digestive system, hunger and retention power.
So does the course help at the end of the day, the children say it does. As 14 year old V. Shatabdi said: 'Recently a classmate called me dark and I just said thank you, when as, earlier, I would have been offended. Five minutes later, she came back and said that I was a nice human being. I was glad that I could make my classmate see something positive in me and change her attitude.'
By www.telegraphindia.com
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
AGAINST YOGA
While my fellow writer Kevin Neeld made an interesting Argument For Yoga, I'd like to explain the reasons why men should stay as far away from any yoga class as possible.
Even the name is a turn off to men, Yoga. It sounds too much like yogurt, another pointless venture in health and well being. A snack that also aids in regularity? No thanks, tacos help just fine. Yoga is the perfect exercise for women: self love, cute outfits and lots of thinking. Women love thinking, shopping and self love. Men don’t like to think and are usually pretty competitive.
Point being, yoga is better suited for women. We have four reasons why yoga wasn't intended for men in our argument against yoga.
Real men don't carry mats
Weight belts and gloves are the only accessories men should bring along with them for a workout. Unless a guy plans on taking a quick snooze between weight sets, there is no reason to bring a mat to the gym. A mat tells the world that he is about to take off his shoes, breathe like he is learning Lamaze, and spend the next hour thinking calming thoughts about daffodils and inner peace.
Don't even consider the yoga pants and organic cotton top, or the paramedics will be using the mat to roll up your carcass after the other guys in the gym laugh you to death.
No man should bend that way
Unless a guy is training to break into a bank, Mission Impossible style, there is no reason for a man to be that flexible and limber. A workout should involve the release of aggression through the movement of weights or the scoring of points. Sure, yoga requires the strength to move and hold your own body weight, but that isn't very practical. It's the additional weight in daily life that requires the extra effort. Congratulations if you can tuck yourself under that chest of drawers, but I'd be much happier if you were strong enough to help lift it into the other room.
By Chris Illuminati
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Even the name is a turn off to men, Yoga. It sounds too much like yogurt, another pointless venture in health and well being. A snack that also aids in regularity? No thanks, tacos help just fine. Yoga is the perfect exercise for women: self love, cute outfits and lots of thinking. Women love thinking, shopping and self love. Men don’t like to think and are usually pretty competitive.
Point being, yoga is better suited for women. We have four reasons why yoga wasn't intended for men in our argument against yoga.
Real men don't carry mats
Weight belts and gloves are the only accessories men should bring along with them for a workout. Unless a guy plans on taking a quick snooze between weight sets, there is no reason to bring a mat to the gym. A mat tells the world that he is about to take off his shoes, breathe like he is learning Lamaze, and spend the next hour thinking calming thoughts about daffodils and inner peace.
Don't even consider the yoga pants and organic cotton top, or the paramedics will be using the mat to roll up your carcass after the other guys in the gym laugh you to death.
No man should bend that way
Unless a guy is training to break into a bank, Mission Impossible style, there is no reason for a man to be that flexible and limber. A workout should involve the release of aggression through the movement of weights or the scoring of points. Sure, yoga requires the strength to move and hold your own body weight, but that isn't very practical. It's the additional weight in daily life that requires the extra effort. Congratulations if you can tuck yourself under that chest of drawers, but I'd be much happier if you were strong enough to help lift it into the other room.
By Chris Illuminati
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Thursday, 2 April 2009
YOGA, BALANCE AND BREATH
A frazzled teacher cringes at the thought of grading more papers. A real estate agent worries about the lagging housing market. A business owner can't sleep because he worries about his livelihood.
Life is suffering, says the adage, but more Americans suffer less every year after experimenting with the Eastern meditative practices of qigong (pronounced chi kung) and yoga to deal with stress.
Some 15.2 million adults have used yoga for health purposes, according to the a 2002 survey by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Yoga can potentially improve a person's mood, counteract stress, increase lung capacity, reduce heart rate and blood pressure and help with anxiety, depression and insomnia, according to the center.
Penny Navis-Schmidt, a local qigong teacher who is also a psychotherapist, says the practice keeps her healthy.
'I'm a pretty type A person,' Navis-Schmidt said. 'I'm someone who really needs to do this.'
Every morning, Navis Schmidt clasps her fingers together just short of her hands reaching the floor. She pulls her body up, takes her clasped hands and lifts them over her head, brings them down and out parallel to her stomach, and then back down. The movement is repeated, and Navis Schmidt says the morning routine calms and energizes her.
By Suzanne Jacobson
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Life is suffering, says the adage, but more Americans suffer less every year after experimenting with the Eastern meditative practices of qigong (pronounced chi kung) and yoga to deal with stress.
Some 15.2 million adults have used yoga for health purposes, according to the a 2002 survey by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Yoga can potentially improve a person's mood, counteract stress, increase lung capacity, reduce heart rate and blood pressure and help with anxiety, depression and insomnia, according to the center.
Penny Navis-Schmidt, a local qigong teacher who is also a psychotherapist, says the practice keeps her healthy.
'I'm a pretty type A person,' Navis-Schmidt said. 'I'm someone who really needs to do this.'
Every morning, Navis Schmidt clasps her fingers together just short of her hands reaching the floor. She pulls her body up, takes her clasped hands and lifts them over her head, brings them down and out parallel to her stomach, and then back down. The movement is repeated, and Navis Schmidt says the morning routine calms and energizes her.
By Suzanne Jacobson
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
YOGA FOR THE SCEPTICAL
When filmmaker Kate Churchill, herself a practicing yoga enthusiast, invites journalist and yoga virgin Nick Rosen to sample various forms of the discipline for six months to see if it transforms his life, she creates an interesting dual viewpoint and a fascinating tug of war for control of her film, 'Enlighten Up!' Well-crafted pic traverses the globe, interviewing a who's who of gurus and investigating a wide range of regimens, with Rosen as both questioner and body-contorting guinea pig. Opening April 1 at Gotham's IFC Center, this simultaneously tongue in cheek and reverential docu will entertain the unenlightened without alienating the faithful.
Pic conducts a whirlwind tour of a dizzying array of practices that all call themselves forms of yoga, presided over by a host of practitioners ranging from benevolent sages to burning eyed ascetics, with assorted lecherous ex wrestlers, New Age mystics and glorified aerobics teachers thrown in for good measure. Rosen, as narrator, dictates the pic's meaning, but as he fails to manifest any appreciable onset of spirituality, Churchill allows her angry disappointment to become a dramatic factor, her whispered asides to attempting to steer Rosen's pragmatic queries down more metaphysical paths.
By RONNIE SCHEIB
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA
Pic conducts a whirlwind tour of a dizzying array of practices that all call themselves forms of yoga, presided over by a host of practitioners ranging from benevolent sages to burning eyed ascetics, with assorted lecherous ex wrestlers, New Age mystics and glorified aerobics teachers thrown in for good measure. Rosen, as narrator, dictates the pic's meaning, but as he fails to manifest any appreciable onset of spirituality, Churchill allows her angry disappointment to become a dramatic factor, her whispered asides to attempting to steer Rosen's pragmatic queries down more metaphysical paths.
By RONNIE SCHEIB
THE LATEST YOGA NEWS, FROM IT IS YOGA