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
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