Thursday, September 4, 2008
Yoga: Three Reasons You Should Not Do Yoga Posture - Half Spinal Twist
...Half Spinal Twist - (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
This important asana takes its Sanskrit name from a legendary teacher of yoga, called Matsyendra, who was believed to be one of the first founders of hatha Yoga. This asana is one of the few yoga poses that rotates the spine. Twisting postures in hatha Yoga complement forward and backward bending asanas by exercising the muscles in more complex ways than is accomplished by the movement of flexion and extension alone. Thats why the twisting poses are essential for a completion of hatha yoga practice.
The spinal twist simultaneously stretches the muscles on one side of the back and abdomen while contracting the muscles on the other side. The compression of the spine improves nutrition to the inter-vertebral disks and squeezes blood out of the internal organs of the abdomen and pelvis, imp...more
namaste - Yoga Adepts
...There is a vast ocean of knowledge on the subject of Yoga, so whether one is a beginner or considered a master, it is one of the subjects where one keeps on learning until one reaches the portal of illumination.
There are by default an equal amount of definitions on the subject of Yoga as there are individuals alive on earth and every single one of these definitions is the only correct one. Indeed, this very definition could be classified as a sutra, or "mind boggling" expression of a truth. Please note that I did not write "the truth", but "a truth". And I most certainly would not classify the abov...more
Yoga and Weight Training - Never the Twain Shall Meet?
...to focus the body and mind in an integrated way. Ultimately, ones spiritual energy is awakened. The person is better able to interact with the world in a more efficient way. This is the goal of yoga.
In those cases, where the teacher does not understand yoga properly, negative effects can occur. In the previously discussed case, the special populations need to be considered. The second problem with incorrect or incomplete information lies in the release of latent energy through the practice of breathing exercises and physical and mental practices. Ones internal spiritual energy is latent, active or energised. If the energy is not released properly, or is not directed properly, or is released from an incorrect area of the body, very detrimental effects will occur in the person.
It is in the best interests of all yoga students to seek the advice and instruction of a recognized professional from a school such as Swami Vivekananda Yoga institute (SVYASA) which carries out research in yoga in a scientific way. It is recognized for its technical research by medical institutions all over the world.
Yoga is not just for hippies or women in white leotards. Care should be taken not to fall into the trap of someone elses mere idea of fitness, rather than a thoroughly researched 5000 year old body of verified knowledge.<...more
Yoga and Losing Weight
...hatha Yoga instructors must learn to adapt their teaching styles to accommodate students with a variety of health conditions. Obesity is a common, but serious, health risk factor, which has to be addressed by teachers, in a compassionate way.
Any student who walks through the door of your studio is taking a pro-active stance toward his or her health. Compassion and mutual respect are the foundation of the student / teacher relationship. Therefore, adapt and modify to meet any student's needs.
If you are a student, begin your yoga practice with a knowledgeable yoga instructor, who is familiar with your goals....more
