Saturday, October 30, 2010

Have some Hatha Yoga

Hatha yoga is known as the 3000 year old system which was used to increase the healthy body, mind and spirit. People who do Hatha Yoga combine the stretching exercises of asanas into their practice. It includes the mental concentration and breathing techniques.

The Lotus position from Asanas is used in practicing Hatha Yoga. The goal of applying Hatha Yoga is just the same as using other kinds of Yoga. It aims to blend the human spirit with the peaceful spirit of the Universe. With this practice, the person doing the Yoga exercise increases their spiritual, mental, physical and emotional health and aspect.

Doing Hatha Yoga gives you peace and keeps your environment and the world as one. In doing yoga, including all types of yoga, concentration is the root or main ingredient for a successful yoga

All other types of Yoga have some similarities in one way or the other. The main focus of Hatha Yoga is to prepare the body to give in so that the spirit will be able to absorb and accomplish its mission. The spirit is responsible in lifting and enlightening. When the spirit is enlightened, the mind is relaxed and it throws away all stress and pain. The body does too.

Too many people get confused because they do not understand that if your body is not healthy and unfit; your spirit cannot successfully accomplish the task. So the goal of Hatha Yoga is perfect to apply if your spirit is weak.

Hatha Yoga will help encourage your body to move and advance positively to a level in which the spirit will be able to work properly. Your spirit and body needs to respond positively so that the mind will be able to keep up with a good concentration.

When people hear of the word Yoga, Hatha Yoga will come to their minds first. Hatha Yoga is popular and it is the popular branch of Yoga. In fact, the other style of yoga such as the Kundalini, Ashtanga, Bikram and Power Yoga has originated from Hatha Yoga.

Hatha Yoga is known as the vehicle for the soul. It is responsible for driving the body and the spirit into the universe. Just imagine soaring to the universe and feel no gravity at all. That is just so relaxing and tempting.

Concentration is something that is hard to maintain and recover. If you find yourself easily distracted by outside forces, Hatha Yoga might work to fight it.

The best thing about practicing Hatha Yoga is that it helps you find out for your self that there is a divine light that shines in you. Not only does it enlighten you but it can help you become stronger, relaxed and flexible.

The exercise involved in doing Hatha Yoga allows the spiritual energy to flow through the open energy channels. This will be possible if the mind, body and spirit is working good and has harmony. Of course maintaining a healthy body is the most important of all. If your body is weak, your mind and spirit is affected too

When you practice Hatha Yoga, you can easily cope up with stress and relieve some pain and tension. Sometimes, work leaves you wasted and exhausted so you need to relax once in a while. Hatha Yoga is the best remedy to release that pain and tension.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Dancing to the beat of music

Yoga is a form of relaxation and mediation, which can offer many benefits. It increases flexibility. Increases lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons.

Moreover, it massages the organs of the body and serves as a complete detoxifier of body toxins that exist. Furthermore, it helps in toning the muscles, and provides balancing of the nervous system. Not only that, it reduces stress because of the gentle and slow exercises that are done and executed.

So Yoga, as a whole is very advantageous especially to the persons who are so busy and do not have time to relax. This is a very effective form of relieving stress and aside from that, your physical well being is protected and improved.

Its popularity is ever increasing and thus, the need for learning it is high. There are instructional videos that help us to round out our practice in yoga. These videos provides a variety of choices which we could choose from unlike from yoga classes in which some of them gets pretty boring for some of us. There are so many various positions that are taught and performed by Yogis.

Because of its widespread and continuous popularity, millions of people around the world engage in Yoga. There are so many people that have already been blessed with its benefits. There are so many types of Yoga that are exercised by people of different walks of life, ages and lifestyles. This only proves that it is indeed for everybody. One does not need to spend so much money on paying a tutor or simply joining a Yoga class.

There are more convenient ways to learn and practice them. You can do it in your own homes, if you have a video player you can buy various Yoga Videos that are available. Moreover, there are books that serve as beginners guide or seniors guide. It suits your needs whether you are a newbie to Yoga or if it has influenced you a lot that you would not want it to end just that way.

Yoga involves both the breathing control mechanism and the physical exercises that can be done to improve one’s vitality, flexibility and strength. Since it is a form of exercise, it is usually accompanied with sound or music. Yoga music helps you set yourself in the mood to start the exercise.

With the different kinds of music, it will surely set your condition. There are various types of Yoga music like active, serene, kirtan, and mellow. Usually, it is the sounds of nature like wind chimes, chirping birds, wilderness and many others. While some are chants and Yoga music that was used back then. Yoga music brings together a mix and variety of world beat and sounds. Some are danceable and some sacred music are included.

This lets you move from the beginning to end. As a result, this enhances the flow of Yoga and your life. This is like a unifying pulse that is brought together to attain a certain atmosphere of indulgence, like the current of a river or the sound of nature when it is in bloom.

These are invigorating sounds that delight the senses and improve the movement of the body in accordance with the sound or music. Yoga music also serves as a light or inspiration for it brings back memories or thoughts.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Yoga supplies

Yoga is said to be the oldest practice of self-development known. It started in India which dates back about 500 years ago. By exercising Yoga, one can gain information and benefits on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. Moreover, it encourages the individual to focus on his or her capabilities as well as self-awareness.

There are several methods of Yoga. This includes physical postures, breathing control as well as meditation. But most of the time, people engage in Yoga to shape up and to improve one’s health and well-being. Only a few are really into pure mediation and reflection without doing or performing the Yoga asanas.

It is said that Yoga is not a series of steps to be followed but an evolving process. Through time, one who practices it is cleansed and aware of his being. As a result, he perceives life as good and does well on many aspects.

Through Yoga, one can practice or improve his body. Furthermore, he can practice controlling his breath and knows self-control. He or she also attains or has the capability to direct his mind and to interact with the object of his concentration. However, one must be dedicated enough in order to achieve these goals and have its corresponding benefits.

Yoga has become a common practice nowadays and has influenced millions around the world. Different classes and groups are found in various cities and regions. The most common form of Yoga is Hatha yoga. This kind of yoga involves breath and body coordinated. Through physical exercise and harmonized breathing, a certain relief and blood circulation is improved.

This can increase one’s vitality, strength and flexibility. Hatha yoga is only one form of Yoga. There are still many other kinds aside from that. Some are fast aerobic Yoga workouts while some are strong precise styles for the fitness conscious people. There are also styles for those who prefer gentle and focuses more on healing.

Yoga is open to all people of different ages, faiths and lifestyles. One need not pay for a personal tutor or attend a prestige Yoga class. There are books and references which you can use if you want to learn Yoga self-taught.

However, you must choose a kind or form of Yoga that is apt for you and your lifestyle. It is also important to know your own qualities so that your learning is guided. It is because each kind of Yoga has its own unique form of meditation.New forms of Yoga are also developed nowadays.

In addition, there are videos and dvd’s available in the market to guide you as a beginner. There are also supplies sold and available when you are already applying or performing the physical activities involved in Yoga. There are videos like Yoga for athletes, yoga for couples, yoga with grace and strength and yoga workout for beginners.

There are various supplies and equipment that can be used while you are into a Yoga session. Equipments like yoga mats, yoga belts, yoga straps and blocks. There are mats that provide support when you are already into the exercise. These mats protect and serve as a cushion for you when you are performing on hard floors. They are accompanied with Yoga straps as well as blocks that aid you in your Yoga workout.

In addition, it is advised that you pick clothing that will not prevent you from moving freely. In this way, you can stretch and optimize your flexibility skills.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

THINGS I'VE LEARNED IN BIKRAM YOGA

There are many reasons why you should use Bikram Yoga. The advantages of Bikram Yoga can totally change your life. It’s amazing how Yoga can trigger your life and change your perspectives.

Bikram Yoga is widely known as the “hot yoga”. It was also called the Bikram Method Yoga. This aims to build your mental and physical strength. Improving your flexibility and balance is important and covered by Bikram Yoga.

Bikram yoga has roots in Hatha yoga which was designed to heal the mind and the body.

Bikram Choudhury was the founder of Bikram Yoga. He was a founder and a yoga practitioner. He developed Bikram Yoga after he met an injury in a weightlifting accident. He was so determined that he had discovered some healing benefits in practicing some exercises. A lot of people have proven the benefits of Bikram Yoga so the practice was passed on and many people continued to practice it.

Some people practice Bikram Yoga for healing purposes and physical therapy. This type of Yoga was proven helpful in bringing holistic benefits to those who believed and practiced it.

In fact, there was a patient who suffered from a knee injury. He tried to practice Bikram Yoga and just six weeks after continuous practice, his knees started to feel better. Some difficulties and pains that he suffered from were all disappearing.

In order to be successful with the healing process of Bikram Yoga, you need devotion in practicing it.

There are some people who do not believe in the benefits of Bikram Yoga. Bikram Choudhury developed Bikram Yoga with the help of some scientists. The scientists from the University of Tokyo University Hospital proved that Bikram Yoga has medical benefits. Some of its benefits include the repairing of tissues and helps in curing chronic ailments.

The findings and benefits were presented at the International Medical Conference in the year 1972. It was stated that Bikram Yoga has the ability to affect the body internally.

The poses and pressure replenishes the cells and the flushing toxins in our body. It also oxygenates blood throughout our body keeping it clean and healthy.

While Bikram was on his research at Tokyo University, he discovered that the healing process takes place when all the body systems are functioning well, conditioned and strengthened. If the body is weak, applying the practice and healing method will be difficult to obtain.

Bikram has come up with twenty-six posture exercises which are to be practiced every day. In doing so, treatment in the body can be easily obtained. Some poses are accumulated with the combination of the western and eastern disciplines in Yoga which focuses on the stretching of the muscles, tendons, organs, nerves, glands and ligaments.

The different postures have connections and each of it precedes a posture that is helpful in treating the body effectively.

Anyone who wants to do yoga can use Biktam Yoga. It chooses no age at all. This type of yoga works with a tourniquet effect which includes balancing, stretching and creating pressure which is all done at a same time to keep a good blood flow to all the parts of the body.

Thanks to Bikram Choudhury, we can now have solutions to some of our medical problems. Always remember that dedication and devotion to Bikram Yoga is the main ingredient to staying healthy.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Yoga, learn the basics

For you to learn what yoga are you should know first what the real meaning of yoga is. So what is Yoga?

Yoga is present for more that 3,000 years and originated from the land of India. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” which means to bind, join attach and yoke. This also means "union, to direct and concentrate one's attention on, to use and apply." In other words, yoga is about concentrating on your mind and body to bind you to God. It's about disciplining yourself to balance your mind, soul, and emotions, so that you can connect with your individual spirit or your "jivatma", which is in turn part of the Supreme Universal Spirit or the "Paramatma," a.k.a. God. It's about focusing your energy into constructive channels. And the name of an individual who follows the teachings of yoga is known as a "yogi."

In this article Yoga, learn the basics you will be exposed to the basic forms of yoga. There are actually lots of different types of yoga; it is not strictly a term for the stretchy exercise we will be discussing. The term "yoga" can refer to any of these things:

Karma yoga -- focuses on giving of oneself without expecting any reward

Jnana yoga -- a philosophical approach to unveiling the illusions of the world

Bhakti yoga -- channeling emotional energy into one's spiritual practice

Rhaja yoga -- focuses on concentration and mind control

As there are many styles of dance, so are there many forms of yoga that you should learn. In fact, a new one might be developing right now, as a teacher puts his or her own stamp on a specific technique.

Current popular yoga styles include, but are not limited to:

Gentle yoga, which is sometimes also called by the generic name "hatha yoga" -- this usage of "hatha" is debatable; some folks believe the term should only be used to refer to the general idea for all physical yogas, while others use it colloquially to refer to the gentler style.

In Gentle yoga, the focus is on long stretches and flexibility, with slow, deep breathing (yogic breathing is known as "Pranayama"). This can be very soothing for the mind -- it is the kind of mellow style most people picture when they think of yoga.

Kundalini yoga, which works on the premise that the body has eight "chakras," and through use of "breath of fire" (rapid breathing), one can heat up the body from the bottom up, eventually "raising kundalini" to achieve a feeling of high enlightenment.

Power yoga, which is also known by the Sanskrit term Vinyasa yoga (a "vinyasa" is a series of rapid movements which warm up the body all over). This is a very active form of yoga, in which a person is moves quickly through the poses (called "Asanas"), not holding them as long as in other styles. It is virtually guaranteed that you will sweat a lot in this; it is not for the faint of heart and gives a real challenge to the muscles

To learn yoga you must put your full attitude and spirit into it. This not a gym exercises where you can just stride through when you are already feeling fat. Yoga is much more into the spiritual well being that being into the physical fitness.

Saturday, October 23, 2010

The Most Common Types of Yoga

There are so many different types of yoga today, with this a problematic situation for beginners, it is best to choose a form of yoga that is appropriate for each individual’s level of fitness, physical and spiritual goals and health condition.

Some of the most common types of yoga are listed below and briefly explained to guide you in choosing the best type of yoga that you can start with.

Iyengar Yoga: these types of yoga are solely focused on the alignment and precise movements. Yoga props such as blocks and straps are usually used as part of this type of yoga for those beginners who are not as flexible as the experts as to compensate for injuries. These Yoga props help assist all sorts of people to be able to do the poses comfortably. Because of its attention to details and the flexible modification of poses, these types of yoga is often a good form of exercise for people with back pain or neck pain, as they are likely to benefit from the random alteration to the poses.

Practicing these types of yoga will give you a good knowledge on the classics in yoga poses so that whatever other style you practice, you will have the basic fundamentals on how to do each position.

In Iyengar yoga the teacher focuses more on alignment and inner awareness. This awareness starts with the body and expands to other parts of the self as one continues with the regularity of practice.

Ashtanga Yoga: these types of yoga are commonly called “power yoga” because it is focused on a powerful flowing movement. Such movements include pushups and lunges, which deals with strength and stamina. These types of yoga are best for people who have successfully overcome back injuries and are looking for more challenging practice. People who are already athletic such as runners, gymnasts and cyclists who want to add more balance and concentration to their routines are also utilizing these types of yoga.

Bikram Yoga: these types of yoga are also known as the “hot yoga” for this is done in a very warm room. These types of yoga are excellent tools for increasing flexibility because the heat helps tissue to stretch. But keep in mind that these types of yoga are not applicable to those that have developed cardio vascular diseases due to the strain placed on the body when vigorously exercising in the heat.

Viniyoga: these types of yoga links breathe and movement in flowing exercises that are adapted to each individual. These are often a good form of yoga for those with back problems or neck injuries because it can be easily adapted by anyone.

Raja Yoga: these types of yoga aims for liberation through meditation. These types of yoga are only for those people who are capable of intense concentration.

Bhakti yoga: or commonly known as devotional yoga. These types of yoga focus on self surrender in the face of the divine.

Mantra yoga: much more know as the "yoga of potent sound,”. These types of yoga aims at liberation through the verbal or mental repetition of empowered sounds, such as "om," "hum," or "ram."

There are so many yoga institutions to choose from. It is also a good idea that before going into a class, discuss with the teacher first regarding his or her philosophy and beliefs in order to find the most appropriate and personally appealing form of yoga for you.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Strike it up with your Yoga Poses

There are a lot of yoga poses and you might wonder if some are still exercised and applied. The answer is yes. Yoga poses function and perform differently. Each pose is designed to develop one’s flexibility and strength.

Here are some of the yoga poses that are commonly used:

Standing Poses

Standing is one of the important yoga poses. This type of pose is helpful in aligning your body and your feet. This is also very useful in improving and maintaining a good posture. It is an advantage because if you have a bad posture, your backbones can be stretched and straightened without noticing it. Standing poses helps in giving strength to your legs and at the same time increase elasticity in your legs and hips because they are all connected to each other.

Seated poses

These types of yoga poses increase your lower back and hip’s flexibility. This also strengthens your back. This adds suppleness to your knees, groin, ankle and most especially your spine. Another advantage is that it helps you to breathe in deep which gives you that calm and peaceful feeling.

Forward Bends

This type helps you in stretching the hamstrings and your lower back also strengthening it. This lessens the tension found in your neck, shoulder, back and increase flexibility in your spine. Calmness is also achieved in this type of pose.

Back bends are amazingly helpful in opening your chest, hips and even the rib cage. This is helpful in strengthening and making your arms shoulders stronger. At the same time, it simultaneously increases your flexibility and elasticity in your shoulders. The great thing is that it helps to relieve the tension from the front of your body up to your hips and it increases your spinal ability. Your spinal cord is one thing that is important in your body so you need to take good care of it.

Back Bends

Notice that the forward bends are challenging because the exercise gives you a nice feeling and it can cause to fix some injuries. In this type of position, you can use a prop like the strap or the black because it will be very helpful.

Balance

Balance poses are very challenging. People who do yoga get too excited in performing balances. This is good because the fun that the person acquires helps him to live up his spirit and enlighten his soul. Balance is helpful in improving your posture. In improving your posture, the spinal cord is elongated which helps to keep yourself from some injuries and falling over.

Balance helps in training your ability to focus on your main goal and attention. However, attention should be obtained in the ultimate level because if your concentration is weak, for sure you cannot perform this type of pose.

Balance is one of the yoga poses that people truly appreciate and exert effort for. Along with the balance poses comes the twist which extremely releases tension all over your body. The tension in your spine is made clear. Twisting may seem to be hard to obtain. It is important to execute twists on both sides of the body so that the balance and alignment is obtained.

Taking note of these yoga poses will help you get along with yoga perfectly. Keep in mind that concentration is your main key if you want to be successful in doing these yoga poses.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Tips for Good Yoga Posture

Keeping up a good yoga posture is all it takes for you to be able to keep up with a good yoga practice. Yoga's not only fine for achieving balance, developing calm, and making you elastic enough to make your body move to its utmost. A yoga posture can also build the inner strength.

Fighting the Cobra

This relieves slight pain in your back and tones abs.

First step: Stretch out on your stomach with legs and feet joined in together. Plant palms on the floor below shoulders with fingers facing onward.

Second step: Next is to lift the upper body by gradually lifting the head and chest, just make sure that you keep your shoulders down. (Pelvis and thighs shouldn't leave the yoga mat.)

The last step: Hold your pose for about twenty to thirty seconds as you breathe in even breaths all the way through your nose. Go back to your preliminary location and do it all over again.

Strengthens your abs.

First: In the first yoga posture, you should situate yourself in a standing position with legs hip width separately, holding arms directly ahead with palms facing down.

Second: Twist your knees and squat if you want as if you're about to sit in a chair in your classroom. Make sure to center weight in your heels, lock it and don't bring hips lower than the level of your knees.

Third: Allow yourself to reach forward, and center your eyes in a straight line ahead while breathing in and breathing out all the way through the nose. Hold this yoga posture for about 20 seconds. Gradually go back to standing position, and then you can release your arms.

The Wind-Relieving Posture

This yoga posture stretches your spine and helps in the digestion of your stomach. It’s a good thing to have a good running stomach so that you will always feel fresh.

First: Recline on your rear or back. As you breathe in, drag your right knee near to your chest. Keep your left leg in a straight line and on the ground.

Second: push your shoulders and the rear side of your neck into the ground at the same time as firmly holding your knee. You can breathe for ten seconds only. This might be quick but seems longer when you execute it.

Third: Change the sides, while holding the left knee to your chest for about ten seconds. Complete this set by hugging both of your knees to your chest and holding it for another ten seconds. Do the set again.

The Upward Boat Posture

This strengthens your abs, improves your balancing ability, and also helps in digestion.

First: Sit down on the floor. Bend your knees and place feet flat on the floor.

Second: breathe in, bend back and raise heels off the ground, straightening your legs as possible as you can. Expand your arms with palms facing downward. If you find it difficult to perform, you can rest your hands beneath your knees for support. This may be a difficult yoga posture to perform but after a few practices, you will never have that difficulty again.

Third: while you hold the pose for thirty seconds, you should keep your back in a straight line, and make sure your abs are doing the work.

Practice this yoga posture all over again when you have time and you will find it easy to execute after you have continuously repeated it. A yoga posture can save your health, your digestion and your backbone so better keep it up.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Tracing the History of Yoga

The History of Yoga has a lot to do with the present times. The earliest Yoga started some 5000 years ago since human civilization has begun. The scholars have believed that Yoga was originated out of Stone Age Shamanism.

This is because there were some cultural similarities between Mehrgarh which was a Neolithic settlement and the Modern Hinduism. The shamanistic culture of Mergarh was in fact influenced by Hindu ideals, symbols and rituals of the present. The ancient shamanism and early Yoga had so much similarity for the reason both wanted to go beyond the human condition.

Shamanism’s primary goal was to heal the members who were in their community and at the same time act as the religious mediators. Archaic Yoga also had the same objectives as they were community oriented and they aimed to determine the enormous order through senses and inner vision which then can be applied to our daily lives. As time went on, Yoga has progressed and has regarded the inmost experience. Yogis then have focused on how to improve the individual enlightenment, recovery and salvation.

Yoga’s evidences were first tracked in the archeological evidence which was found in stone seals exhumed from the Indus valley. Yoga postures were traced and seen fro the figures which were illustrated in the stone seals. the artifacts were placed on History books circa 3000 B.C., which was linked to the great Indus-Sarasvati Civilization which was known to be the largest civilization that exist in the ancient world. The Indus-Sarasvati, being a maritime society, exported goods all over Africa and the Middle East. They build up sewage systems and put up geometrical brick roads and constructed multistory buildings.

The Vedas are known as the oldest scripture in the world which were the ancient texts, was brought by the Indus-Sarasvati civilization. It was a compilation of hymns that commends a high power which included the oldest recorded teachings in Yoga. They have considered this the divine revelation. The intelligence of the Vedas was known as the Pre-classical Yoga or the Vedic. This was described by the ritualistic ceremonies that the Yoga practitioners have been required in order to go beyond the limitations of the mind.

The history of yoga would not have been completed in the classical stage of yoga. After the time and turn of the millennium, yoga and its spread in different forms have come up with the need for standardization. This is important so that the people will be aware with it and it can be applied by them. Due to this, during the second century, C.E., Patanjali has composed and collected seminal text which was the Yoga-Sutra which had defined the Classical Yoga.

At the age of Postclassical Yoga in the enormous history of Yoga, it gave rise to some productive literature which has included the Tantra and the Hatha which is famously known nowadays. These were taught in schools for Yoga and practiced by many. Therefore, post classical Yoga is described to the adaptation of our present state. It is the time when yoga has evolved greatly and introduced to people. It has then been applied in the United States in the 1800’s.

In the recent decades, yoga has greatly and swiftly evolved. Swami Sivananda was one of the prominent gurus ever to master yoga. He has served as a doctor and he has generously opened up schools in Europe and America.

Now as we move on with the yoga practices that we have today, it is much helpful and easier to understand if we looked back on the history of yoga.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Let’s do the Yoga Moves…

Madonna does it. Cameron Diaz, Reese Witherspoon, Katie Holmes and Janet Jackson also do it. These famous celebrities are working out the yoga moves. But this is not the reason why you should do yoga moves. The reason that you should try the classical yoga moves is simple: It will make you feel active with an over all good feeling.

Yoga is an ancient system of movements for personal development of the mind and body. Yoga practitioners viewed it as an all-encompassing lifestyle, emphasizing compassion, non-violence and inner peace. It consists of various yoga moves and poses.

With its gentle movements, yoga moves have been an ideal method for relaxation and body stimulation. Moreover, performing the yoga moves helps you stay focused and awake during your work day.

Like any exercise, you can do different yoga moves while seated at your desk. It also starts with the basics of breathing. However, there are some yoga moves that are difficult, but it’s not necessary to twist your body into any pose that’s not comfy for you.

Below are some of the easy to do yoga moves:

1.The Downward- Facing Dog Pose

This yoga move is said to be the top dog of all poses. It starts with hands and knees. Spread your palms out with the pinkies about an inch from each side of your mat. Press your hips up and back. Slowly lower your heels toward the floor. Your body should be in an inverted "V" shape. Breathe deeply, and concentrate on stretching your heels closer to the ground, contracting your stomach muscles and lifting your butt higher toward the sky. Make sure to keep your head in line with your spine by looking back toward your knees. Stay in this position for about a minute.

2. Tree Pose

This is a simple but powerful pose that needs balance and grace. Stand straight with your legs together. Bend your left leg and place the left foot on the inner right thigh your left toes should point toward the floor and the left knee points out. With your hands on your hips, try and even them out so they are more-or-less level and your torso is facing straight ahead. Once you feel balanced place your hands in a prayer position in front of your chest and then slowly lift your arms above your head, keeping the palms together. Gaze softly at a point in front of you and breathe deeply, holding for about 30 seconds. Return to the starting position and reverse legs.

3. Half Bridge Pose

Finally, this pose will help you improve your posture. Lie flat on your back with your arms at your side palms facing down, and knees bent with heels as close to your buttocks as possible. On an exhalation, push your feet and arms into the floor and lift your hips into the air so your butt rises off the ground and your thighs are parallel to the floor. Do not clench your cheeks but rather concentrate on extending your knees toward the wall in front of you, keeping your thighs and feet parallel. Roll your shoulders underneath you so your arms move toward each other and clasp your hands together. Stay in this pose for about a minute, releasing on an exhale.

Practice these yoga moves for a few weeks, and see how much better you feel!

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Yoga videos for yogis

Yoga is one of the many forms of exercises that have influenced millions of people around the world. Unlike yoga classes it is also time efficient for all of us. This is because you can practice yoga anytime you like unlike from classes, which has a definite schedule.

It is also much convenient because they are always ready whenever you are. In these said videos we could also practice with renowned teachers in yoga and we can feel its thrill to practice with them.

One of the best power yoga instructors is Bryan Kest. But even if his studio is in California and even if we live in far places we could still practice with him by using his videos.

We could also choose which practice we should do and base it in what we need at a specific time. It might focus on stress reduction, one that helps our upper body, or one that helps build our core. It might also focus on what suits our physical situation such as pregnancy yoga or yoga for seniors. And lastly in this practice of yoga videos we could modify the postures according to our physical conditions. For example if we have an injured foot and we can’t put any pressure on the front of it we should modify a number of poses such as the Plank Pose ( in where we need to put our knees down so we wont bear our entire weight of our body on our forefoot only).

Sometimes it takes a lot of extra movements to get into our desired positions because of our injuries especially if we are on a regular class with other persons. Moreover, Yoga videos offer variety and assortment. One can easily get bored doing the same practice over and over again for how may sessions.

The interest and enthusiasm is lost when there is a lack of diversity and mixture. With these Yoga videos, one can choose and pick from a variety of videos that would perfectly fit one’s mood or condition. After all, Yoga is a form of relaxation and mediation, and not an irritating activity or past time.

With these videos, one can enjoy his or her own favorite posture or physical exercise. And you can play them or practice them as long as you like without restrictions and delays.

You get to choose when and where you want to do it. Aside from that, you get to enjoy and feel like you really are relaxing and you, feeling the essence of Yoga. Some say it’s like being in heaven ahead of time. As a result, you will find comfort and enthusiasm that really has to be felt during Yoga activities. Aside from that, getting and preferring these Yoga videos save time and effort.

Some people may not really have enough time and have hectic schedules so this videos are just a few steps away from you plus, it is very convenient to carry almost anywhere without ease. Moreover, going to a Yoga class adds up to a few hours to go there and getting there on time is quite difficult.

Finding a parking space, registering and getting space in class is also troublesome. Sometimes, you end up wasting your time and effort being there without much satisfaction at all.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Yoga Mat Matters

If you like Yoga a lot, then you would probably need a Yoga Mat. People who are into Yoga require themselves to have a Yoga Mat. You can buy a Yoga Mat in the market because it has been widely popular especially these days.

One of the most popular and commonly used equipment in Yoga is the Yoga Mat. Those who are into yoga needs to have their own yoga mat in order to perform the exercises properly and conveniently.

A Yoga Mat can give you a more convenient practice when doing the Yoga exercise. There are some exercises that require bending and stretching on the floor or ground. There are some types of exercises which will require props such as a yoga mat. A yoga mat can prevent you from slipping off during an exercise or hold you in certain pose.

Sometimes, doing Yoga requires space. But with the use of a yoga mat, you can limit your space and stay in one place without occupying the large space in the house or gym.

Sometimes when doing the exercise, you will experience sliding off and slipping. Some poses need to have friction on your feet and hands in order to hold still. The use of a yoga mat is essential especially for yoga beginners.

There are different types of yoga mats designed for different purposes.

The Deluxe yoga mat is a type of mat that is highly textured. This is advantageous because it gives you a better grip since it is made up of a high tack foam in the surfaces. Sometimes, having highly textured mats can prevent chances and instances of slipping off or sliding because it gives you a stronger hold in doing the practice.

The Universal Style Yoga Mat is a mat that is considered one of the basic. It is made up of a light texture which and also a high tack surface that allows your hands to melt into it while you are executing the different poses.

The Meditation Mat is good for use in a practice. When you are going to purchase this, there is usually a pillow that goes with it. They both work for a purpose. That is to give you a comfortable sitting meditation posture. The pillow will help you have a soft and comfortable feel like. This Yoga Mat is very conventional and perfect in your body’s shape and figure which allows you to sit properly.

For those who are new in the yoga exercise, it is essential to have a beginner yoga mat because you are not yet used to the poses. Although a yoga mat is necessary, you don’t just run into the stores and buy yourself one. You will of course need to know the perfect yoga mat that will suit your taste and convenience. Your budget will also have to speak because the more thickly the mat gets, expect that the higher the price will be.

You can ask a yoga expert or your instructor if you want to buy a yoga mat. He will advice you as to what type of yoga mat is perfect to the yoga you are going to practice.

Now it is about time that you get yourself a comfortable yoga mat so you can start your first steps in yoga.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Yoga Pants

Yoga pants are a necessity in practicing yoga. In fact, it is something people can’t do without. Yoga pants have been a major accessory in yoga exercises. Yoga pants have deliberately made people feel comfortable and at ease during a heavy or slight practice.

The women are the ones who are particular with wearing pants. They are too choosy and sometimes out of choosing, they tend not to like it when worn. In choosing yoga pants, what you should consider is the quality and the fit of the yoga pants. Of course it will depend on what type you want.

There are a lot of yoga pants to choose from in the market. In choosing the perfect yoga pants, you should try to fit it first before buying. Make sure that it fits you just right.

Yoga pants should not give you that itchy feel. The texture and property will sometimes leave your skin irritated and scratchy. If this happens, you will not definitely have peaceful practice and concentrating will be hard.

Yoga pants are ideal for use in practice. It gives you a feeling that you should concentrate well with your practice. Yoga pants are not hard to complement with tops. Yoga pants do not chooses any top to go with it. Color and texture doesn’t matter at all. You can wear it at any color combination. You can use your taste in fashion in choosing the perfect match to your yoga pants.

Yoga pants is not all that. It does not only provide you costumes for your yoga class but it helps you to stay clean and free from impurities. Sometimes, you will be experiencing some minor problems like slipping off and sliding. If this happens, yoga pants can save your legs from scratching and getting irritated.

There is another type of yoga pants which is the Capri pants. It looks exactly like the built of the yoga pants. Only that, it is shorter than the usual length of your pants.

Some women prefer wearing Capri pants because they are more comfortable wearing it. Capri pants are also appropriate when the temperature is warm. At least you can allow some air to pass through.

This leaves your skin dry and free from perspiration. Perspiration causes irritations and allergies so it should be prevented.

Yoga pants need not to be costly because the texture of the pants should be soft. It is important to choose the texture of the cloth because it is the main factor to help you stay in shape and in full concentration.

The fit of yoga pants also help in keeping up a good sense of concentration because if you are comfortable wearing it, your mind and body is at rest.

Loose fitting pants are a nice choice so that you will feel comfortable. Yoga pants with the elastic drawstring are also appropriate because you can easily adjust it the way you want it. Choose that pants that is easy to wear, adjust and undress. After yoga sessions, you might feel a little wasted and you wouldn’t want to be in a mess for any longer.

Always keep in mind that yoga pants don’t need to be that outrageous after all.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Kundalini Yoga and the Awakening

The most powerful yoga is known as the Kundalini Yoga. It is powerful that it was called the mother of all the Styles of Yoga. This type of yoga awakens the base of our spine which is known as the Muladhara Chakra.

The word Kundalini was derived from kunda which means “pot”. Kundalini Sadhna is described to be the coiled energy that looks like a serpent which has three and a half coils which are resting at the bottom of the spine. The three coils in Kundalini Yoga are known as the three Gunas which are the Sattva, Rajas, Tamas. The VIkritis represent the half coil.

In anatomy, the kundalini is found in the perineum region of our body. For the males, it is found between the testicles and the rectum. For the female, it is found between the clitoris and the vagina.

Kundalini Yoga is also known as the symbol of equality and power for both genders. The masculine power is known to be Siva and Sakti for the females. They become the elemental source of power and energy when they are united. The union of Siva and Sakti occurs in the brain which gives us the sense of feeling and affection, energy, love. This means Kundalini Yoga is good to eliminate the feeling of sorrow, depression, anger and jealousy.

Kundalini Yoga gives reward to Yogis who maintain unity awareness and spiritual transformation. The Kundalini produces a hissing sound when it is awakened. It sounds just like a beaten serpent as it goes from the Muladhara Chakra to the Brahma Nadi and to the Sahasrara Chakra.

In 1969, Yogi Bhajan introduced Kundalini Yoga. It includes the practices of the common Mantra, meditation, chanting, breathing and the classic poses. This type of yoga actually focuses more on chanting and breathing. It does not really concentrate in the Kundalini Yoga Poses alone.

If you are curious about Kundalini Yoga, it is good to know the path it takes. One thing you need to understand is the Nervous System and the Spinal Cord. These two are the main focus of Kundalini Yoga. It targets your Spinal Cord and the Nervous System.

The Nervous System as we all know is the main control system or the center of our body. The Nervous System is responsible for the imaginations, thoughts, intelligence and memory that we have. The Nervous System composes of the brain, the nerves and most especially the Spinal Cord which gives us posture and stand. The Spinal Cord is made up of delicate nerves and tissues that is why we need to take care of it. Kundalini Yoga will be the most appropriate practice for this.

The infamous Kundalini awakening is not that easy to learn. It is also something that we can find or learn in books. If there was, you might be confused or perplexed in learning the process. If you want to master Kundalini awakening, it should be based on experience. After series of trials and sessions, you will find out that Kundalini awakening took place and it was all because you were just too eager and concentrated to learn it.

Now what you have to do is grab that amazing concentration and start working on your Nervous System and Spinal Cord. If you want to stay healthy and maintain a good posture, Kundalini Yoga is just waiting for you to practice it.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Power Yoga – Powering it up

We may not be familiar with power yoga as it is not fully introduced to us. Power yoga is known as the western version of Ashtanga Yoga which was brought by the Indians.

Beryl Bender Birch was the one who gave the term Power Yoga. He was a teacher of Ashtanga Yoga and at the same time an author of Power Yoga.

Yoga was inspired and was brought to the west by the renowned Sanskrit Scholar Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. The people of the west were inspired with his Ashtanga Yoga and also to his philosophies.

Power Yoga is described to be the the practice of Yoga Poses which is done continuously in a series of exercises without stopping. The practice is accompanied by the Vinsaya which is known as riding the breath. This enables you to make certain movements from one pose to another.

The power yoga is characterized by vigorous exercises which challenges your physical and mental ability and concentration. This enables you to reach your inner power and connect with it.

The difference of power yoga is that the poses are done faster in a pace. This practice is essential and helpful in increasing your physical endurance.

Power yoga enables you to maintain and keep up a good focus at a longer time without breaking or distracting your concentration. if you need to fully concentrate with something, power yoga might just be the right type for you.

Power yoga has some similarities with the modified versions of Ashtanga Yoga. The certain practices of Iyengar yoga and Bikram also influenced power yoga.

Just like Bikram Yoga, notice that Power Yoga also applies the execution of the common basic yoga poses which is a good practice because even the beginners can do it.

Power yoga also adapted some practices of the Iyengar Yoga which gives emphasis on the form and alignment during the practice. It also includes practice in holding a pose longer without breaking which aims to achieve maximum benefits.

Although Power Yoga has been influenced by a lot of yoga types, still it aims on the steps of Classical Yoga. It aims to unite the body, the spirit and the mind uniquely. The main objective of yoga is for you to be able to connect to your inner power and to reach every level through the poses and practices.

With the help of power Yoga, you can dig deep to your physical, mental and spiritual power.

Power yoga is considered good training for athletes. Not only does it train them to concentrate deeply but it also aids them in the prevention of injuries and rehabilitation that may come.

If you want to do Power Yoga, you should know first if your health condition can withstand the practice. You should know that Power Yoga is dine in a heated room which is perfectly designed to increase the strength and flexibility, increase your concentration, release tension, stamina and tone in your body which is achieved and released through sweat.

Power yoga can be taught by teachers but there might be some differences depending upon who is teaching it. The people who are healthy and fit can do and practice power yoga. If you enjoy doing exercises and if you want less chanting, power yoga is the best style for you.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Planning for a yoga retreat…

Excited to join a yoga retreat? Perhaps you need to plan everything first, so that your retreat will be a successful one.

Here are some FAQs that will guide you in planning your yoga retreat.

1.Why join a yoga retreat?

One of the best things about retreats is that you give yourself an ultimate treat. A yoga retreat is intended for all of us who want to have a stressful vacation while doing the activity you love, yoga.

It is a learning experience wherein you can relax, unwind and renew your sense of health. Also, it is an opportunity to connect and share with other people with similar experiences and explore the exciting nature adventures.

A perfect yoga retreat allows us to go more deeply into our yoga practice in its different aspects: postures, breathing, and meditation.

2.Who goes on a yoga retreat?

Yoga retreats are usually designed to progressively introduce the practice of yoga giving anyone the opportunity to learn on their own pace and ability. It is offered not only for yoga professionals but also to yoga students of any level.

Family members, couples, singles with slightly more women within the age range of 24-65 years also join a retreat. Even other people who are looking for a transformative and memorable vacation experience enroll to a yoga retreat.

3.Where to spend the retreat?

Yoga retreats are offered all over the world. So, you need to decide on a particular place. You can choose a place you’re interested in exploring. Any relaxing place that is ideal for yoga. The venue can be close to the nature, in the countryside or near the sea.

4.Do I need to get a yoga instructor?

It is a must that you get one especially for beginners. The retreats provide the opportunity for the instructor to get a better sense of your strengths and weaknesses. In this way, he will have the idea on how to guide you.

It would also be beneficial if you have attended a yoga class with the instructor before the retreat. This is for you to have a better confidence that their teaching style and approach will meet your needs.

5.Do I need to know someone else on the retreat to get the most from it?

Absolutely not, it’s normal that some of you don’t know the other. One of the good things about the retreat is that you’ll have the chance to work with other people. These people would be your best source of information, and be your friends. Also, through the yoga retreat you’ll be able to learn new techniques, and above all, have fun.

6.What to wear during the retreat?

Casual, comfortable clothing would be best. But if you are traveling somewhere unfamiliar, you can check with the retreat organizer the local weather of the place. This is to ensure you on the appropriate clothes to wear. However, in some cases clothing requirements are likely defined especially if there will be religious services.

7.What to bring on your yoga retreat?

Yoga retreats vary, some are like camping, in hotels, and others are closer to the resorts. Therefore, please ask your retreat organizer on the things you should bring. You might be advised to bring some special items like flashlights, bathing suit, yoga mats, etc. Be sure to inquire about necessary passports and visas if traveling overseas.

So, ready now for the breathtaking experience? Just keep in mind your purpose is to relax, learn and have fun!

Saturday, October 9, 2010

The Basic Yoga Positions for Beginners

Yoga is not just a recent discovery. It has been practiced and applied a long time ago and up to the present, the people are benefiting a lot from it. Investigations and researches have been implemented to prove that yoga can be helpful in the healing process.

Yoga positions for beginners are so easy to learn. If you have not experienced any yoga session or have not seen one, that is not a problem.

Practitioners have talked about the unification of the mind, body and spirit. They claim that this will be acquired through the practice of yoga exercises and techniques.

If it is your first time to hear of yoga, you will of course wonder how these exercises are done and how it looks like. Since you are a beginner, you will also definitely ask what kind of positions will be best for you.

Yogis have believed that the mind and the body are bonded into a unified structure. This belief has never failed and changed through time. Yoga has extensively performed an amazing procedure of healing oneself through harmony. This can be successfully done if you are in a proper environment.

With the great effects of yoga, the doctors have been convinced that yoga has some therapeutic results and can be recommended for people who have illnesses that is hard to cure.

If you have some illness that has been with you for a long time, you can practice the yoga positions for beginners and apply it to yourself.

If you want to practice the yoga positions for beginners, you must believe that yoga is effective and will help you to be refreshed.

It has been proven that the yoga positions for beginners are extremely effective and useful when it comes to maintaining a high level of joint flexibility. Although the yoga positions for beginners are just simple and basic, it can slowly bring up a healthy lifestyle and bring more when it is practiced over and over again.

The yoga positions for beginners are very interesting and exciting to perform. Beginners will never find it hard to keep up with the exercises because it is just simple. The technique of yoga gives a very big contributing factor to our internal glands and organs. It also includes the parts of the human body which is rarely stimulated.

If you want to learn the yoga positions for beginners, you can learn it easily at home or at school where yoga is taught.

Some basic yoga positions for beginners include standing poses, seated poses, forward and backward bends, balance and twisting. These yoga positions for beginners are not that far from those who are used to practicing yoga. Only that the extreme poses and positions are handled at the latter part of the exercise.

The time duration in executing the positions are also lessened because a beginner cannot fully cope up with a longer time exposure in practice. Rest is required of the beginner so that he will not be drained easily to prepare the body for further positions.

Since you are a beginner, the most important thing you should understand is self discipline. Yoga is not just doing yoga and executing the poses. If you haven’t mastered the basics yet, do not jump into the complex stages and positions because you will not feel the essence of executing the yoga positions for beginners.

Friday, October 8, 2010

Yoga Accessories - Getting the Ones You Really Need

If you want to do yoga, of course you need to have some of the needed yoga accessories but you don’t really need all of it.

In practice, you don’t actually have to force yourself to buy all of the accessories. You can have just the necessary ones. If you want to have the most yoga accessories, you can go for the cheaper ones that are available.

Other sports may require you to have all the expensive accessories needed in the practice. With Yoga, the major requirement is your body and nothing more. It is the important equipment that you should have in order to complete the process.

Although not required, you can have the basic yoga accessories if you want to. These basic accessories give you a comfortable look and feel when doing yoga.

Some standard Yoga Accessories include clothing that is needed to keep you comfortable. Good clothing helps your body breathe or cool off and it allows to you make movements freely. Comfortable clothing contributes a lot to your concentration and will give you a peaceful mind.

If you do not wear good and comfortable Yoga Accessories, you might be distracted. Distractions are very hard to deal with in doing yoga exercises.

Wearing loose fit tee shirts might cause some abstractions because it draws your attention and it causes to move unevenly. Paying attention to these things is such a hindrance to a peaceful yoga practice.

Yoga instructors recommend their students to wear nice-fit Yoga Accessories in order for the session to be flourishing and thriving.

One of the best Yoga Accessories is the shorts. Most people wear shorts during a practice. This is perfect for those who perspire a lot. Sometimes, the room temperature keeps you warm and wearing coated accessories may cause some discomfort during the practice.

Since Yoga needs full concentration, sweating may cause some distractions and disturbances. Yoga Accessories are created to make you feel better and not to make you feel uneasy.

Yoga as we all know is performed barefoot but there are some people who are comfy in wearing socks that are made of cotton and also shoes that are softly made.

A mat is another Yoga Accessory that is commonly used by those who practice yoga. This is quite essential if you are in a class so that you stay in your place during the practice.

This is good to stay clean because there will be some exercises that requires you to lie flat on the floor. Mats help in preventing slides and slips during a practice.

There are also some optional Yoga Accessories which include bags. These bags are useful if you are carrying a mat to your class.

DVD’s are useful if you are not taking classes. The videos represent as your teacher. You simply need to follow the steps and you’re in shape. It’s just like having real classes.

Buying these accessories is not really compulsory but they are considered useful. Now what are you waiting for? If you really want to do yoga, go and get yourself the Yoga Accessories that you want.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Yoga techniques

A lot of people prefer doing yoga to maintain a good and healthy life.

If you are doing yoga, there are some yoga techniques you need to understand and apply. No one can run away and be free from major illnesses so the best way to get away with it is to exercise in order to maintain good health.

Yoga is considered to be the most effective way to stay fit and healthy. The best thing about it is you can have it at home or anywhere you want it. You also buy your time because you can do it any time of the day.

Fitness is important in doing yoga. Yoga techniques are helpful in maintaining good organs and other parts of the body such as the muscles, joints, glands, tissues and vital organs. These are the main focus of setting yoga techniques.

Here are some yoga techniques that you can practice during your yoga session. Despite your busy schedule or the crowded place you stay at, keeping up with these yoga techniques will help you go through it.

The five yoga techniques include: posture, relaxation, meditation, deep breathing and movement of joints. Each technique has its own role and function.

The movement of joints is called the 'sandhichalana'. This is one of the yoga techniques that focus on the joints. The joints undergo full movements which include the movement of the hands, movement of the neck and the movement of the lower limb.

In relaxation, there are some yoga techniques that will deepen your concentration and prevent your attention to be drawn easily. Rather, now withdraw at all.


The Aum Technique expands your awareness which is beyond the limitations that your body and mind creates. This helps you maintain a powerful meditation and gives you to personal experiences of what Divine consciousness brings.


The Hong-Sau is a Yoga technique that helps and focuses on the latent powers of your concentration. This technique helps you to release thought and fight all distractions s that you can concentrate on the problem you are targeting. This helps you to develop Divine Consciousness which is from within.

There are some ancient yoga techniques that you can apply. Although there are a lot of yoga techniques to choose from, applying these techniques might not be easy for you especially if you are a beginner.

In getting concentration during the yoga session, you can boost your awareness by thinking clearly of some creative ways on how you can be attentive in all situations. You should be able to figure out what makes you feel tense and how to release it.

After the heavy day of work, you should find new ways on how to stay peaceful and calm. Concentration is your best tool and guide.

The main objective of these yoga techniques is how to create your awareness for a satisfying relaxation. You should be able to find out how to effectively release the tension inside your body and where to release it. In order to do so, your mind, body and spirit should be at a high level.

Techniques are of course helpful but these are useless if you can’t apply it. The best way still is to have your own yoga techniques that will help you go through the process successfully.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Want some Free Yoga Exercises?

Like everyone, you too would be interested in doing this set of free yoga exercises meant for just you!


These free yoga exercises will instruct you on how to practice yoga exercises; you just need to have a discipline and confidence to yourself in performing the exercises.


Yoga as a system of physical exercise it is designed to improve your body strength, increase the vital flow of energy and gives a peace of mind. This free exercise is performed by different poses and needs to be practiced correctly.


The daily routine starts with having the a fixed procedure of practice everyday in three points; first, Japa meaning chanting some mantra over and over to maintain the same consciousness; second, study by reading some yoga scripts; and third, meditation which should be performed at a fixed time in a fixed place everyday.


The beginning pose of these free yoga exercises should be the Corpse pose, and be repeated between other asanas (yoga poses) and as a final relaxation. The easy pose which is the standard pose is also a good position for meditation while allowing your mind to gain strength and relax.


Start these yoga exercises with the warm up exercises to relax and prepare your muscles for the next exercises. After warm up you can perform the shoulder lifts the natural following exercise and the eye exercise, which can improve your eyesight and prevent tiredness. For the next exercises you can practice sun salutation which will stretch all your body muscles, this to prepare for the much more difficult exercises. Try also leg raise, which will tone your leg muscles, giving you more endurance and improved flexibility; head stand pose is also good for resting some of your organs such as heart.


Now prepare your mind and body for much more difficult yoga exercise.


Start with the bridge and plough poses; this will increase your back flexibility. It might look difficult to perform but this poses can easily reached by performing it gently. At first this exercise might not be perfect because it takes time to develop and execute them correctly. After that try forward bend pose to stimulate the nervous system and then fish pose, it tones the chest muscles and lungs.


Women who suffer from menstrual problems can try the cobra pose, it stimulates the pelvic and lower abdomen area, improving the circulation and massaging the internal organs.

The locust pose on the other hand can help strengthen the lower back. Locust pose is also known to help prevent constipation.


The bow is another pose that will help your back area remain strong and flexible at the same time and abdominal fat my also be reduced if proper diet is applied. Furthering this yoga exercise you can try the half spinal twist pose for your spines.


You can improve your joints and arm strength by the crow pose; this will give you more breathing capabilities. Then followed by hands to feet pose and the triangle, the pose requires your body’s strength and flexibility. For the final perform the corpse pose to regain any energy that has been lost during these free yoga exercise and also to rest your body.


Try these free yoga exercises and see which ones work the best for you! Use the ancient wisdom of yoga to keep you in a healthy and comfortable lifestyle.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Yoga Clothing - Shop and Buy the Best Ones

What you need to incorporate well with yoga is the yoga clothing. Although yoga does not really require wearing certain clothes, it is still important to wear your best and feel good during a session or practice. The yoga clothing that you should acquire is the ones that give you maximum comfort and reassurance.

Yoga clothing needs to be loose, stretchable and made of cottony fiber so that it will keep you most comfortable and alive. The movements in yoga session are quite hard and will certainly cause you to perspire.

If you keep up good yoga clothing, distractions and uneasiness will never be experienced plus you will have to concentrate in doing your practice.

Yoga clothing includes shorts, sweat shirts, leotards and tights. The type yoga clothing you want will depend upon your figure or ease and feel. Movements are too sluggish and fast sometimes so you really need to make a smart pick.

If you wear stiff yoga clothing, for sure you will not be able to move freely and it will certainly affect your concentration towards the practice.

Yoga can be practiced anywhere you want even at home, at the garage or in a parking lot as long as you feel like it and your yoga clothing preference is appropriate.

If the weather is too hot or warm, definitely you need to wear those clothes that do not cover the most part of your skin like shorts. You can wear tank tops or tubes if you want so that sweat will not eat up your whole body and have that wet feel.

When you see people who practice yoga with sweat all over their yoga clothing and accessories, do you think he has reached his full concentration?

If you are doing yoga in a cold and air conditioned room, you can wear long sleeves or three-fourths so that it can cover some part of your body and not feel the cold. If you wear short yoga clothing, you will surely be frozen by the cold and not feel comfortable anymore.

Yoga clothing is particular with the type of yoga you are practicing. Like Bikram Yoga which is known as the “hot yoga”, of course wearing shorts is the most appropriate outfit. It allows air to pass through and keeps your skin breathable and comfortable because air can pass through which prevents irritation and distractions.

Because yoga is not choosy, the clothes you want will have to depend upon your taste and style. If you are trendy, choose the yoga clothing that is multi-colored so that it reflects your individuality and uniqueness. If you are harmonious, choose the yoga clothing that goes with the nature or you can use color combination in your top and pants.

If you are a nature lover, choose yoga clothing that looks fresh or with flowers printed all over.

Keep in mind that choosing yoga clothing reflects your personality and the real you. Also, understand that you have to carry and handle yourself properly in order to gain confidence and credibility. It’s okay to be conscious because it will affect your practice.

If you don’t like the clothes you are wearing today, you might not even perform well and your practice will all be a mess. Yoga clothing is worth the effort to keep up a high self esteem. So before going out or before going to your yoga class, look your self in the mirror first and check out your cool yoga clothing.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Does it really mean Hot Yoga?

Yoga started about 2500 years ago which was founded by Patanjali. After its discovery, it was then practiced and spread around the world.

There are a lot of yoga types and one of them is the famous hot yoga. The hot yoga is characterized by a series of yoga poses which is done in a heated room. The room where you perform the exercise maintains a temperature of 95-100 degrees. This kind of exercise gives off a lot of perspiration during a session because you are in a heated room. Picture yourself doing Yoga when you are suffering from fever where your body temperature is at 105 deg. Fahrenheit! I bet you couldn’t stand this kind of heat. If ever you will, you have over fatigued yourself.

Hot yoga is advantageous because it cleanses your body and gets rid of the toxins inside your body through perspiration. Since it makes your body warm, the more flexible your body gets.

When doing hot yoga, you should have some accessories like yoga mat and towel. Since you will be sweating profusely, you should have something absorbent and soft to wipe your sweat every time.

Some people who practice hot yoga do not wear very thick clothes because it causes them to sweat more.

If you are going to practice hot yoga, you should have proper clothing. The clothes you should wear should be appropriate that allows your sweat to evaporate easily and not soak your clothes thoroughly as it will get uncomfortable and heavy. You can wear shorts during the session.

Wearing of shorts allows your skin to breathe and give off heat. Students or young people are the ones who usually wear shorts. They tend to wear small clothes because they are still vigorous and they sweat too much.

If you are taking hot yoga sessions, make sure that you drink a lot of water. If you are in the class, you bring along your own bottle of water so that you can drink anytime you want. It is important to bring along a bottle of water so that you will not get dehydrated and so that the skin will produce more sweat.

Before having a hot yoga session, you should take note that it is not advisable to eat two hours before the class starts. This is because your body will be subject to heavy exercise.

Bikram’s method is such a good yoga style. People who want to slim down can practice this type of yoga because their fats and cholesterol will be burned through sweat.

Now that you have learned about hot yoga, think if it satisfies your desire to release your sweat and excess toxins through this type of yoga. Remember that in doing hot yoga, all your energy is taken away. If your body has not a single energy to waste, then hot yoga is not the perfect yoga style for you.

Friday, October 1, 2010

How to find the Right Yoga Bolsters

Yoga has been part of our lives when it comes to tension and stress relief. Through yoga we gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of oneself. It also serves as a great tool to stay healthy and prevent certain diseases.

Yoga through the years of repeatedly usage has become a popular alternative medicine. Today it is now used to cure chronic diseases and ailments in the different body systems. It includes the nervous, circulatory, endocrine, respiratory, digestive, reproductive and the musculoskeletal system.

Yoga can be practiced by anyone, including the elderly and those that have or suffers from certain injuries. The use of specific yoga equipments can help people who are not perfectly capable of doing yoga. The use of yoga Equipment can help you achieve the maximum physical and mental results of your practice.

One of the best examples of yoga equipments is the Yoga bolsters. Yoga bolsters are being used in various styles of yoga like the Bikram, Ananda and Kripalu yoga. These are yoga form that needs much of your yoga bolsters for they instill more use of extensive yoga poses.

Yoga bolsters provide support for the back, abdomen and legs. Yoga bolsters also aids in the proper alignment of the body and the stack of spinal vertebrae. Yoga bolster is also and effective way to cushion and relieve tension in your lower body and upper body, the neck and the abdomen when doing your poses. Yoga bolster aids yoga master in doing supine and passive yoga positions. Putting your yoga bolsters on top of your mat provides added cushioning and support to your lower body and makes your yoga session more comfortable.

Yoga bolsters are light and can be easily carried and stored at the corner of your room. Yoga bolsters can easily fit in to your drawer or a closet without taking much space.

Yoga bolsters also comes in a variety of size, shapes, colors and materials which is designed to fit your need and preference.

Different sellers offer cylindrical, rectangular, Zafu, and a lot of other types of Yoga Bolsters. Sometimes people buying yoga bolsters are quite confused on whether to buy cylindrical or rectangular yoga bolsters.
So here are some brief discussions on the difference between this two. But if you are into yoga class and like the yoga bolsters that you are using then you can buy the type you use.

Cylindrical bolsters are a larger and much more firm that the rectangular yoga bolsters. Cylindrical yoga bolsters are heavier than the rectangular ones, owing the fact that they have different respective filling materials with different weights.You can do most things equally well with either kind of Bolster, but the different shapes do have marginal advantages for certain poses.

Yoga Bolsters are used for comfort in different positions, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to provide that extra level of comfort and support. Placed under knees, ankles, or neck, these Bolsters help to relieve muscle strain during difficult poses.

The round bolsters and Rectangle Bolster props, supports and encourages your body to stretch, relax and open the areas that need it most.

What ever kind of bolsters that you need, I am sure that you will be able to find one that will suit your needs.

If ever nothing would fit you in yoga store, make one of your own or find somebody who can make them, giving you a much more flexibility and customization in getting the yoga bolsters that you like.