The Yoga rules

By Ian James Bennett

Doing yoga regularly will make you feel better about your body as it will tone muscles, reduce stress, makes you stronger and more flexible and will improve your physical and mental well being. Yoga exercises have been around for years but does it help you to lose weight?

Yoga will make you stronger but it will not raise your heart rate enough for it to reduce weight dramatically. There are many different yoga types with some more beneficial to weight loss than others. Iyengar yoga is where you hold a particular pose for several minutes helping flexibility but it will not help to much in the process of losing weight. In order to lose weight you need to raise your heart rate and burn calories while eating healthy. A lot of people include yoga in their workouts as it does help to improve your overall health. In order to lose weight using yoga you will need to do a vigorous 90 minute workout at least 3 -4 times a week.

The type of yoga that will help you to shed some pounds is called vinyasa-style yoga. This is based on a series of poses called sun salutations. Vinyasa uses a few yoga styles which will make you sweat and get your heart pumping. For the purpose of weight loss you could try these yoga types:

Ashtanga

This is good for weight loss as it is a very vigorous yoga type. Most people who practice ashtanga are very dedicated and people who want to take ths up are recommended to sign up for a series of lessons. Once you have learned all the positions it can be practiced at home but it will have to be done regularly for you to see the benefits from it.

Power Yoga

This is probably the most popular type of yoga for weight loss as it involves a vigorous cardiovascular workout.

Hot Yoga

What this does is uses vinyasa yoga in a hot room. This will make you sweat helping to lose weight and make you more healthy.

If you are new to yoga it is best to start off with a beginners class and work your way up to the harder stuff. If you cannot go to yoga classes there are plenty of good yoga videos about where you can copy the poses shown from your own home.

Ian Bennett operates http://www.megaweightlossplan.com, a blog about weight loss. He loves giving away stuff and right now when you sign up you will get a great Newsletter. and its all FREE!

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By Prahalad Singh

Hip Rotation

Benefits

Nourishes and opens up the hips fully

Tones the muscles of the waist

Focus

Keep your legs strong, so that you feel steady to rotate your hips as widely as you can without upsetting your balance.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhaling, circle your arms overhead, and bring your palms together. Interlock your fingers, with index fingers pointing up.

Look up at your hands. With your pointed fingers, "draw" a small, imaginary circle on the ceiling in a clockwise direction. Move your hips at the same time, also in a clockwise direction.

Make a slightly larger circle, with your arm and hip movements still coordinated.

Make progressively larger circles until you have completed 7 circles. With each rotation, stretch and lengthen through your arms and fingers as you bend forward, sideways, and backward. Bend fully in each direction until you feel your waist and back muscles begin to work. On the last rotation, your interlocked fingers should come low to the floor as you bend forward.

Pause and rest.

Start "drawing" large circles, close to the ground, in a counterclockwise direction. Make progressively smaller circles as you come back to the starting position, with your arms directly above your head.

Repeat the sequence in reverse, starting with small counterclockwise circles that get progressively larger, then making large clockwise circles that get progressively smaller.

Drop your arms to your sides, shrug your shoulders, and relax.

Liver-Stimulating Exercise

Benefit Increases the circulation and flow of prana to the liver to improve its function

Focus Firmly massage your abdomen.

Stage 1 Stand with your feet hip-width part. Place the palm of your right hand on your right upper abdomen, at the base of your rib cage.

Stage 2 Press your palm across the middle of your abdomen along your lower rib bones.

Push your palm up to your breastbone, to the left about 6 inches, down your lower rib bones, and back across to the right lower rib bones. (This pushing from right to left and back again constitutes one repetition.)

Repeat this movement firmly 36 times.

Kidneys This simple Chinese exercise should be done in the morning.

Benefits Stimulates the adrenal glands and the kidneys by increasing circulation and the flow of prana

Improves eyesight

Keeps the skin smooth

Strengthens libido

Focs Imagine the heat and energy flowing from your hands into your kidneys to promote healing.

Kidney Massage Stand with your feet hip-width apart, and lean forward a little. Rub the palms of your hands vigorously together to bring warmth into your hands and fingers, then place your hands over the small of your back.

Massage the small of your back by rubbing up and down, then in a circular motion around your lower back for 1 minute.

Pummel Kidneys Clench your fists, and pummel the small of your back for approximately 1 minute.

Repeat this alternating massaging and pummeling action for 1 minute at a time until you have completed 5 minutes, total, of both movements.

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By Cathy Seiler

Yoga is a wonderful practice that can deliver many benefits. Yoga is widely practiced all over the world and as of today is a very popular method for getting great exercise.

Yoga not only exercises your body, but you mind and soul as well. Yoga physical exercises go hand in hand with yoga meditations. This was started out in India so long ago you might not even believe it. They have found artifacts that depict people in Yoga positions that date back to 3000BC.

The most common practiced form of Yoga is western countries is Hatha Yoga. Which is the form of Yoga based mostly on exercises and positions. The popularity of this has boomed due to the enormous benefits that those who practice it receive.

Students practicing Hatha Yoga see improved strength, lowered stress, lower body fat, and all the other benefits of getting regular exercise.

Getting into the basics...

If you have decided to give Yoga a try, then welcome and good for you. There are several places in just about every city to find a good Yoga practitioner. Take your time and find one that you like and feel comfortable with. Before you start here are some basic tips.

Make sure to wear loose and comfortable clothing. You will be moving you body a lot and this is essential.

Just like any other exercise activity, I would suggest doing it on an empty stomach.

Pay close attention to any position or exercise that is painful. Yoga is not supposed to be painful, so if something gives you the sensation of pain then you need to ease into that position and avoid injury.

Try to have a clear mind. The sensations of a good Yoga exercises should leave your mind relieved of stress when by the time you are finished. Focus on your body and your breathing during the exercises. This will help you reach that point.

Take your time when finding a Yoga studio or other place that offers Yoga. A good studio is well ventilated and lit. Most importantly is that you like your instructor. So dive into it. One thing about Yoga that is so great is that I can promise you once you start, you will see nothing but good things from practicing it.

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By Duane Flowers

Reiki and Yoga are both first and foremost paths to Enlightenment. Although many people who are currently practicing them seem unaware of this and are thus deriving only a fraction of the benefit that they might were they to follow the paths these modalities were originally designed for. In this article I would like to discuss exactly what enlightenment is, and how Reiki and Yoga can assist practitioners in experiencing it.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a spiritual discipline that was developed in Japan by Mikao Usui at the end of the 19th Century. While on a quest for spiritual enlightenment, Usui discovered he had the ability to channel energies that were able to dissolve physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual blocks in the energy systems of others. This energy channel could be opened in other people, just by attuning their energy systems to it through a series of energetic manipulations. Physical healing is derived by dissolving energy blocks which are preventing the body from healing itself and since they are the easiest to perform, many Reiki practitioners ignore the mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects... which is unfortunate as they are where most people are currently in need of assistance.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a spiritual system that was developed in India approximately 5,000 years ago. It consists of eight branches, namely yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhayana and samadhi the following of which begins with simple rules to living ones life, physical poses, breathing exercises, and the development of the ability for the level of deep concentration/meditation necessary for spiritual enlightenment. The physical poses (asanas) are the easiest to understand and master, however, they are just one part of this system, and while development of this aspect alone can yield tremendous physical results, the development of the other branches are basically being ignored, which again, is a shame, since this is where most people are in need of assistance.

What is Enlightenment?

Spiritual Enlightenment is the realization that you are part of a bigger whole... that you are connected to the universe, and to everything in it, just as a leaf is part of a tree. It is so simple, yet so difficult, because just as we begin to realize this or catch a glimpse of it (sattori in Japanese), something blocks it from remaining obvious and we are again shrouded in darkness and apprehension. The Buddha referred to enlightenment as the end of suffering because it is this sense of dis-connectedness that is the root of all suffering. Volumes have been written on this mysterious realization which do it much more justice than I can in such a short space... I would highly recommend the works of Ramana Maharshi, Nisargadatta Maharaj, J. Krishnamurti and more recently Eckhart Tolle for a more complete understanding.

What is the Connection?

More detail on the history of Reiki can be found here and more detail on Yoga can be found here, but in a nutshell, Reiki and Yoga are both spiritual disciplines either of which will yield the sought after results, yet as such they require dedication and perseverance to master and reap the rewards. Disciplines such as these may seem daunting, but only if results are demanded immediately. If approached with patience and determination the end of the road is reached soon enough, at which point one finds they have a decision to make... and a new journey to embark upon. The good news is that every day more and more people are reaching this realization (as opposed to 100 years ago when very few found success and even fewer were able to guide others in its mastery) and assistance can be found everywhere. When you do find the key (which may very well be unique for you) you will wonder how it was ever possible that you never noticed it before... it was there all along, you just never seemed to connect the dots. Reiki and Yoga are both specifically designed to help you find that key... are you looking for it?

Duane Flowers, PhD, is a Reiki Master who has been living in Japan and studying Reiki for over 12 years. He has studied and worked with some of the top Reiki and Yoga teachers and experts in the world and continues to devote time every day to furthering the understanding and practice of Reiki healing. Duane's new Reiki blog is located at http://reiki.whatitallbelike.com where all comments and questions about Reiki are truly welcome.

By Roberts Bairds

Benefits

Improves fexibility of the wrists and shoulders stretches hamstrings, gives the heart a rest

Focus

Keep both legs straight, and press your palms together firmly.

Stand with your feet 4-6 feet apart, toes turned out slightly.

Raise your arms to shoulder height, then bend them and take them behind your back. Bring your fingertips together, palms resting on your lower back.

Rotate your wrists so that your palms face out (backs of your hands against your back), fingertips still together. Lean forward, and drop your head down so that it is lower than your heart.

Press your fingers up along your spine, toward your shoulder blades. At the same time, ease your palms toward each other, fingers pointing toward your head. The pull of gravity will help you bring your palms closer and higher between your shoulder blades. Pull your shoulders back, and bring your palms together firmly.

Turn your left foot in slightly. Inhaling, bring your upper body over your right leg. Exhaling, lower your head toward your knee.

Inhaling and exhaling through your nose deeply and slowly, hold the pose for 3 Full Yoga Breaths . On each exhalation, lengthen your body down along your thigh.

Inhaling, slowly bring your upper body back to the center.

Turn your left foot out and your right foot in slightly. Inhaling, bring your upper body over your left leg. Exhaling, lower your head over your left knee. Hold the pose for 3 Full Yoga Breaths. Focus on lengthening your upper body with each exhalation.

Inhaling, bring your body back to the center, and slowly return to an upright position. Breathe normally.

Very gently, release your hands and flick your wrists strongly (as if you have something sticky on your fingers) to release any stiffness in your WrIsts.

Stomach Bandha

Benefits

Improves function of the pancreas, which produces insulin, to maintain steady energy levels throughout the day and moderate unhealthy sugar cravings

Focus

Pull your abdominal muscles back up and under tightly.

Stand with your legs 4-6 feet apart. Bend your knees and squat; place your hands on your knees, fingertips facing in.

Inhale, then exhale forcefully through an open mouth.

Holding your breath, close your mouth, and tuck your chin into your chest.

Suck your abdominal muscles back, up, and under your rib cage. Continue to hold your breath for a count of 7.

Release your abdominal muscles.

Inhaling, straighten your legs and come up. Exhaling, bend forward and hang loosely.

Repeat the sequence 3 more times. Practice to gradually increase to 7 repetitions.

If you are not used to holding your breath, this exercise may make you cough or feel a little dizzy at first. If it does, exhale and release your head down between your legs, then try again.

Warm-Up

The following warm-up stretches lubricate stiff joints, increase circulation, and improve your flexibility. They will make your practice of the routines more comfortable and help you avoid injury. Use your visualization skills with each stretch to improve their benefits.

Visualize yourself moving intuitively into and out of the stretch according to your body's needs. Be aware that rushing too quickly into an exercise program is a sure-fire route to lower-back pain, so be patient with yourself However, carrying a little extra weight is not a limitation, often a person with a large build can be both stronger and more flexible than a person who has been working out. For example, repetitive choreographed routines can lead to the overuse of muscle groups and joints as well as shortening and tightening of the muscles, leading to inflexibility and muscle fatigue.

Read more about yoga exercise, creatine, and also about bodybuilding tips.

By Victor Epand

Yoga is a group of ancient spiritual practices originating in India. It has been defined as referring to "technologies or disciplines of asceticism and meditation which are thought to lead to spiritual experience and profound understanding or insight into the nature of existence." Yoga is intimately connected to the religious beliefs and practices of several Indian religions.

Ascetic practices (tapas) are referenced in the Brahmanas early (900 BCE and 500 BCE) commentaries on the Vedas. In the Upanishads, an early reference to meditation is made in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, one of the earliest Upanishads (approx. 900 BCE). The main textual sources for the evolving concept of Yoga are the middle Upanishads (ca. 400 BCE), the Mahabharata (5th c. BCE) including the Bhagavad Gita (ca. 200 BCE), and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (200 BCE-300 CE).

Yoga is a 5000 year old science whose teachings were first imparted not in a classroom or Gurukul, but on the battlefield. In the epic Mahabharata, Lord Krishna is first said to have imparted the teachings of Yoga to his despondent student Arjuna. Around 1500 years later, another sage, Patanjali, went on to enunciate, for the benefit of humankind and eternity, the way to reach the 'summom bonum' of life through a series of 195 aphorisms (sutras) in his epic treatise The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Bhakti yoga is the foremost of all. It denotes the spiritual practice of fostering loving devotion to God, called bhakti. Traditionally there are nine forms of bhakti-yoga. Bhakti yoga is generally considered the easiest of the four general paths to liberation, or moksha (the others being Karma, Raja and Jnana Yoga), and especially so within the current age of Kali yuga (according to the Hindu cycle of time). In scriptures such as the Bhagavata Purana, bhakti is described as a perfectional stage in itself, which surpasses even moksha as a level of spiritual realisation.

Regarding physical yoga practices as done today, people are reporting frequently their wonderful experiences, their transformation of being, and their experience of being taken beyond the here and now. In one wonderful session of Yoga, people get to practice a number of things -- some Yoga poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation and chanting. In Yoga you get to learn basic terms like Mudras, Bandhas and Chakras. Best of all, Yoga is fun and relaxing while, at the same time, being delectably challenging to beginners. The intermediate and advanced students, who insist on continuing their practices, get more and more of the taste of this great 5000+ year old way of life. Yoga is beneficial for the body, mind and spirit.

Physical Benefits of Yoga

1. Brings down stress and enhances powers of relaxation
2. Boosts physical strength, stamina and flexibility
3. Bestows greater powers of concentration and self control
4. Inculcates impulse Control
5. Helps in rehabilitation of old and new injuries
6. Intensifies tolerance to pain and enhancing mental clarity
7. Boosts functioning of the immune system
8. Enhances posture and muscle tone
9. Improves blood circulation
10. Results in healthy, glowing skin
11. Cleanses and improves overall organ functioning
12. Bestows peace of mind and a more positive outlook to life
13. Infuses a sense of balance and internal harmony

Victor Epand is an expert consultant for Krishna art, religious gifts from India, and Hare Krishna books. You can find the best marketplace for Krishna art, religious gifts from India, and Hare Krishna books at these sites for yoga art, yoga gifts from India, and yoga books.

By Paul Jerard

When the ancient Yogis gathered to share information about this science of life we know as Yoga, the idea of harnessing thoughts must have been of paramount importance. Most of the world sees Yoga as a physical activity.

Yet, so much effort and progress has been made over the past 5,000 years in focusing the power of the mind through Yogic principles. To achieve self-mastery is to fully concentrate in the present, and focus on your primary objective.

Wishful thinking, visualization, affirmations, positive thought, mantra, japa, and prayer, are very powerful methods. Each one of these methods, can carry any one us, toward our objective. They are more powerful, when practiced in combination with each other.

However, many people do not take action. Some people take action without practicing any of the above-mentioned methods. If you practice visualization, affirmations, positive thought, mantra, japa, prayer, and take action, you have a better chance of reaching your objective.

What holds us back from taking action? The truth is - there are too many thoughts going on in our heads. It has been speculated that the average person has 5,000 to 65,000 thoughts per day. The exact number is not really worth debating. Suffice to say: we have many thousands of thoughts per day.

No wonder we have difficulty taking action. That much thought is a serious distraction. In Yoga, the mind is compared to a monkey, but now we realize that we are dealing with a troop of monkeys. It takes a lot of practice to tame the mind.

Anyone who is successful in a leadership role is living proof that you can put aside distractions and accomplish goals through intense focus. How can we get rid of confusion and distractions? Confusion stems from living life without a plan. A written plan of the day, week, month, and year, is your template toward progress. Some will say - time spent planning is a waste of time.

If you are going to construct a house, you will need a plan, and you will most likely have to hire professionals to help you. The same principle applies in our daily lives. Now, let's say we have a young student, who is restless and easily distracted.

One suggestion would be for him or her to do Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations) in the morning, eat a Sattvic diet, and meditate before bedtime. In the morning, the mind is restless because the body craves physical activity.

Surya Namaskars, for at least 20 minutes, will enable the body to exercise first, and to relax later. This will bring about mental focus. For children: Running, swimming, soccer, biking, or any aerobic sport, which uses energy, will enable the body to relax and the mind to focus.

Is this a complete cure for concentration? Not entirely, but it is one major leap forward. If people practiced the above-mentioned Yogic principles, they would easily be in the top ten percentile of achievement within their current field.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA - http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com - He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Ashish Bhattacharya

India has a long history of medical remedies practiced by holy men and local medicine men since ancient times. Some of these remedies date back to the Vedas or 600 BC. Among these medical wonders the two most prominent are Ayurveda and Yoga.

Ayurveda

Literally meaning the science of life, Ayurveda has evolved from understanding the laws of nature, the psyche, the conscious and the unconscious levels.

Ayurveda places equal emphasis on the mind and body, it aims to integrate and balance the body, mind, and spirit. This balance is believed to lead to contentment and health, and to help prevent illness. The chief aim of Ayurvedic practices is to cleanse the body of substances that can cause disease, helping reestablish harmony and balance.

Constitution or Prakriti

Ayurveda has some basic beliefs about the body's constitution. Constitution refers to a person's general health. The constitution is called the prakriti which is a unique combination of physical and psychological characteristics and the way the body functions. It is influenced by such factors as digestion and how the body deals with waste products.

Three qualities called doshas form important characteristics of the constitution or prakriti and control the activities of the body.

The doshas are called: vata, pitta, and kapha.

Each dosha is made up of one or two of the five basic elements: space, air, fire, water, and earth.

Ayurveda believes that an imbalance in the dosha produces symptoms and disease. Imbalances may be a result of an unhealthy lifestyle or diet; too much or too little mental and physical exertion; or not being properly protected from the weather, chemicals, or germs.

Ayurvedic treatments

Ayurvedic treatments are of many types

Panchakarma is for cleansing; it focuses on the digestive tract and the respiratory system. Cleansing may be done through enemas, fasting, or special diets or medicated oils through a nasal spray or inhaler.

Meditation is a conscious mental process using certain techniques like focusing attention or maintaining a specific posture to relax the body and mind, and lying in the sun. The patient may be advised to seek nurturing and peacefulness through yoga, meditation, exercise, or other techniques.

Herbal Medicines patients may have to take herbs to improve digestion, reduce fever, and treat diarrhea. Very small amounts of metal and mineral preparations also may be given, such as gold or iron.

Special Diets are an important part of treatment and patients may be asked to abstain or increase particular foods.

Massages may be used to reduce pain, lessen fatigue, or improve circulation. Ayurveda proposes that there are 107 "vital points" in the body where life energy is stored, and that these points may be massaged to improve health.

Ashish Bhattacharya is an exponent of oriental and alternative medicine and working in a mauritius spa resort, and provides detailed information on Ayurveda spa mauritius.

By Paul Jerard

Yoga instructors are a rare commodity, in high demand. The popularity of yoga has gained momentum, especially with people seeking low-impact fitness routines. A certified yoga instructor can use this time as a career springboard.

What kind of money can you make as a yoga instructor? It all depends on a few factors, with the most important one being experience. Yoga isn't a discipline that can be taught without extensive knowledge and training. The extreme nature of many positions, and stretches, could cause serious injury in the hands of a lesser teacher. A yoga master can charge much more for his/her safe instruction than a novice instructor.

Even though you may focus on one or two styles, a highly skilled yoga instructor has the combined knowledge of many styles of yoga. A rudimentary knowledge of yogic philosophy also helps. As a yoga instructor, you'll deal with many different personalities, so it's important to have patience and compassion.

Many certified yoga instructors choose to teach part time, while keeping a day job. This gives them the flexibility they need, at the same time that they are bringing in extra income. It also keeps them in great shape as they are teaching.

You can choose whether you want to teach a class or prefer providing private instruction. The rates you charge will vary, depending on the situation and your students needs. Private instruction can run anywhere from $30 an hour to $150 an hour. The highest rates are usually from teaching clients in their home or office.

Private clientele can range from office working professionals to professional athletes, and everything in between. Private clients are looking for quality yoga instruction and are willing to pay for it. Teaching classes to groups, costs a bit less per student, and is usually priced around $15-$20 each for a drop-in rate.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA - http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com - He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By June Guarin

Ever wonder what benefits we get from doing yoga? It keeps us toned, fit and young! Years ago, I never do much stretching except after working out from the gym. When I injured my lower back from trying to do squats with weights on my shoulder, I knew something went wrong and I started getting throbbing pain at the back of my head. When my sitting posture is not straight, there is always throbbing pain in the back of my head. It is very uncomfortable when sitting because you keep changing your postures.

I couldn't even sleep at night because I need to lie down straight. That is hard. It took me two weeks before I go see a my doctor.

My doctor doesn't want me to go to Chiropractor as it may cause more injury when twisting my neck because I have HBP (High Blood Pressure). So he gave me instead a stretching exercises to do at home. I followed his advise and I thought of something more effective.

Well, I thought about Yoga. I bought this $9.99 video Yoga for beginners in K-Mart. Guess what.... It worked! Start doing this at home if you are shy doing it in real class.

After a week I started doing Yoga, I noticed that the pain is becoming less and less. And now it's been over couple of years, I am pain free!. I am sure it strengthen and straighten up my spine and I feel healthy. I am now an avid fan of Yoga.

Author: June. I have tried and used different kinds of skin care treatment especially acne and sharing my experience with others. Not only this but I practice healthy lifestyles. You can view more of my stories and articles in http://www.FacialBeautySecrets.com

By Paul Jerard

There is no shortage of teaching opportunities in yoga. This is where being a yoga instructor can be lucrative and fun. By getting in with a great health spa, or opening their own studio, a highly skilled instructor can sculpt their own program. Yoga has so many aspects, and applications, that the range of classes is only limited by imagination.

Besides yoga for physical fitness, you can also teach spiritual yoga classes, emphasizing the connection between the body's well-being and the soul's health. Perhaps you'd like to offer prenatal yoga for expecting mothers? Maybe yoga for seniors, couples, or kids, is more your style? By designing and offering your own programs, you can interject your personality into yoga instruction.

Depending on your location and marketing skills, you can make a great living as a full-time yoga instructor. If you're in a location where a large number of people are looking for a yoga instructor, then the sky's the limit. If this isn't the case, you need to develop some marketing skills. In order to get students, you must be able to make yoga instruction appealing. You have to let them know that you can make them healthier with your teaching. It's going to take a bit more work, but if you're dedicated to improving the health of your community, then you'll succeed.

Yoga is one of the greatest examples, of an ancient discipline, remaining relevant in the modern age. Whether you're looking to focus on the spiritual or physical aspects of the art, being a yoga instructor can be a profitable career path. If this is the path you want your life to take, then get off your yoga mat and take the necessary steps to start teaching!

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA - http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com - He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Doug Bremner

Americans are increasingly looking for alternatives to prescription medications to promote health and prevent disease. I previously wrote about the effects of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on promoting mental health and reducing anxiety. What about other alternative approaches? Yoga is a discipline derived from India combining mental and physical exercises that is increasingly catching on in the U.S. Not really knowing how to describe it I looked up the handy online dictionary for a definition of the word.

Yoga (noun); the word yoga derives from the Sanskrit, literally, yoking, from yunakti ("he yokes").

1. a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its distinction from them and attain liberation

2: a system of exercises for attaining bodily or mental control and well-being

Assuming that people were practicing yoga to promote their physical and/or mental health as well as sense of well being, I followed my tradition of relentless questioning, and asked, is there any evidence that this stuff actually works?

Studies comparing yoga to exercise such as swimming show that yoga reduces anger, depression, and fatigue to an equal degree as swimming (and better than doing nothing) and in some cases yoga is better than swimming. Controlled studies have shown that yoga is equally efficacious as exercise and better than doing nothing for reducing fatigue and promoting energy in patients with multiple sclerosis. Yoga has proven beneficial in promoting health in patients with asthma, diabetes, breast cancer and epilepsy.

Yoga has also been shown to be useful in the treatment of major depression, with one study showing a response rate of 67% in patients in yoga compared to 73% for patients treated for a month with an antidepressant drug. Other studies showed yoga to be effective for reducing anxiety, although studies in this area were not well controlled.

There is increasing evidence that interventions promoting mind-body relationships are a good alternative to prescription medications. So limber up and get those moves going!

J. Douglas Bremner, MD, is a researcher and physician and author of 'Before You Take That Pill: Why the Drug Industry May be Bad for Your Health: Risks and Side Effects You Won't Find on the Label of Commonly Prescribed Drugs, Vitamins and Supplements.' http://www.beforeyoutakethatpill.com

By Paul Jerard

When you consider all of the aspects to learn during a Yoga teacher training course - the case could easily be made that becoming a masterful orator is secondary. After all, there are so many subjects to cover, when considering postures (asanas), yogic breathing techniques (pranayama), meditation, stage-by-stage relaxation, chakras, bandhas, philosophy, anatomy, and so much more. How could anyone think that communication is so important?

Once you graduate, and face your students from the front of the Yoga class, communication, in its many forms, becomes very important. Students learn in different ways and at different paces. Some students will favor learning by sight, sound, or touch. No two students are exactly alike.

Your demonstration, cueing, and assisting skills, will be challenged to their very limits, when facing a group of individuals who want to learn every detail about Yoga. So, now you see that communication is very important, but where do you start? How do you reach a group of students, and make each one of them feel as if you are addressing them personally?

It should always be remembered that each Yoga teacher began as a student. The same can be said for public speaking - a good orator has taken the time to study the craft and refine the skill. It is also worthy of note to understand that throughout history, great orators have been very educated people.

Public speaking and communication require the complete unity of mind, body, and spirit. Eloquence requires practice, refinement, and the joining of all natural resources from within. The same can be said for public speaking skills.

To communicate effectively with a group, class, or a room full of people, is one of the highest forms of demonstration in our quest for self-mastery. It is one thing to amaze a crowd with Yogic feats of physical prowess. People gladly pay to watch elite athletes on display in stadiums and coliseums.

It should be noted that people will also pay to listen to an eloquent public speaker. Each person, who envisions teaching a Yoga class, primarily as a demonstration of his or her physical feats, is missing the opportunity to help students become the best they can be.

Teaching your students to attain self-mastery can only be achieved through effective communication skills. Class time is specifically reserved for student needs. A Yoga instructor should always be a shining example of how to put one's ego aside.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA - http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com - He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Paul Jerard

Ashtanga yoga can also be an athletic style of yoga. It is based on a demanding series of pose changes, sometimes connected by jumps. Designed for flexible, and usually young, bodies, Ashtanga has gained popularity in the Western world because of its intensity. Some popular students of this style are Madonna and Sting. An advantage of this style is that it can be self-led. Usually the yoga instructor will teach students a series of poses and lead them in the routine. After mastering the poses and changes, the students can go through the routine at their own pace. Since this is done in the company of the yoga instructor, and other students, progress can be monitored and mistakes corrected.

For a completely different experience, there is Bikram yoga. Also known as Hot yoga, Bikram is a modern style, focusing on a set series of poses performed in a heated room. The creator of the style, Bikram Choudhury, designated twenty-six poses that constitute the Bikram style. The temperature of the room is ideally set to 105 degrees. By keeping the room at a high temperature, the muscles of the body are more flexible. This is a controversial style because of an intellectual property lawsuit by Choudhury. Only those yoga instructors, certified in his method, are permitted to teach Bikram yoga.

On the other end of the timeline is Kundalini yoga. An ancient form, that is relatively new to the West, Kundalini focuses on the spiritual aspects of yoga. The yoga instructor leads students through a series of poses, making sure that movement is linked with breath. The idea behind this discipline is to cause dormant energy in the lower body to become free and move upwards. For students seeking an athletic workout, Kundalini is not the place to look; but it is still an important style for a yoga instructor to understand.

From the purely physical yoga, to the more spiritual forms, a yoga instructor must be well versed. If you want to be a great yoga instructor, you should understand the basics of each major style, even while you focus on your favorite style. In this way, you'll be ready to answer any student's question and guide them to the right style.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By David E. Morgan

Regular exercise can ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia dramatically, reducing muscle pain and the number of tender points, knocking out depression and insomnia, even cutting through so-called "fibrofog" for increased mental clarity.

Yoga is a particularly effective form of exercise for those with fibromyalgia, for it provides stretches for stiffness, strength building, aerobic exercise, and tools for relaxation. In fact, the Mayo Clinic includes yoga as one of the best things people with fibromyalgia can do for themselves.

For a long time, fibromyalgia, like bipolar disorder, was considered a "garbage diagnosis," and many doctors treated their patients almost as if they were making up their symptoms because the doctors could not find an objective cause for the discomfort.

It is now clear that many fibromyalgia symptoms stem from a very real and measurable cause: low levels of serotonin, one of several neurotransmitters responsible for mood and adaptation to stress.

Muscle soreness results directly from an imbalance in neurological and endocrine functions.

Though muscle soreness is the main symptom of the syndrome, it is certainly not the only one. Other symptoms include disturbed sleep patterns, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and feelings of numbness in the extremities.

A number of conditions tend to co-occur with fibromyalgia, including irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, mitral valve prolapse, and a great deal more.

Yoga can clearly help with the symptoms, and may someday prove to address the underlying causes of fibromyalgia as well.

To date, there is no published study on yoga's ability to regulate serotonin levels. However, western medicine in recent years is proving over and again what the yogis have claimed all along - that yoga is a prescription for total health, not just in body, but also in mind and spirit.

Scientific studies in the last few years have shown yoga effective in regulating levels of GABA and melotonin, two other neurotransmitters linked to mood. In the endocrine system, a regular yoga practice is proven to help regulate insulin levels.

In particular interest to those with fibromyalgia, practicing yoga has also shown to regulate the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Those with fibromyalgia often have high cortisol levels in the evening, when cortisol levels should be at their lowest.

Fibromyalgia sufferers are often told to avoid causes of stress, and all too often this leads to shrinking away from life and avoiding the very activities that used to bring joy. A gentle evening yoga practice may be just the antidote, helping lower cortisol levels and increase neurotransmitters like GABA which can lift mood.

David Morgan teaches Knoxville yoga classes. He is a certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher and a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) through the Yoga Alliance. He offers weekend workshops on yoga for fibromyalgia. Please visit his web site for information about future workshops and a forthcoming Yoga for Fibromyalgia CD.

By Paul Jerard

Is yoga a key part of your health and fitness routine? Are you interested in becoming a yoga instructor? Teaching is a wonderful opportunity to enrich your life, and make a difference in the lives of others. If yoga is one of your talents, consider sharing your gift, and teaching yoga professionally.

Choosing to be a yoga instructor is easier than you think. If you are a natural leader, who has been practicing yoga for years, you are a great fit for the position already. The next step, in the process, is to learn how to teach others properly. In order to do this, you must make sure that you have mastered your own positioning and alignment in the various poses. Take an advanced level class, rent or buy an advanced course on DVD, or order a book online, to make sure your skills are top notch.

Consider taking a certification class for teaching yoga. While certification isn't legally required in the United States, Canada, and most of the world, a certification will boost your confidence. It is a credential, worthy of note, when speaking with perspective students. Minimum requirements vary from teacher to teacher, so make sure you research the certification program you want to join carefully.

Make sure your teacher is someone you respect and admire, and ask questions about the certification process. How much time is involved? What do you teach? What are the graduation requirements? The answers to these questions will help you find the program that is the best fit for you.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Paul Jerard

If you teach any form of Yoga, you are expected to be a living example of good health. This can be easy for some and a daunting task for others. Any one of us could suffer from any one of the multitudes of ailments or diseases, while living a healthy lifestyle.

When students see you for the first time, they make initial judgments. Whether it is right or wrong, people make judgments. Bearing this in mind, Yoga teachers should be eating correctly, cross training, getting a good night's sleep, and abstaining from bad health habits.

Body weight is difficult to control; especially if you have reached middle age. As a result, your diet and physical activities should be regulated according to your present weight. Walking, jogging, or swimming, should be part of your daily routine.

How much cross training is necessary? This depends on your present body weight, your blood pressure, and the condition of your heart. Some studies recommend walking 10,000 steps per day.

You could log this in by using a pedometer. It has also been discovered that moderate intensity exercises, such as: Swimming, biking, walking briskly, or dancing, are also of great benefit to our overall physical health.

The most important thing is to take part in physical activities, which you find stimulating. In good weather, a brisk walk outside is a wise habit. Granted, there are machines, which are designed for moderate intensity exercise. The elliptical trainer is a good example of such a machine.

Eating correctly, and moderately, should be no mystery to any of us. The Sattvic, or Yogic Diet, has plenty of solutions for weight control. One thing to consider is that raw vegetables, fruits, and water, are of extreme value to your physical health.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Paul Jerard

The type of yoga you prefer to practice will guide you in choosing your training and the particular instructor certification process. Bikram yoga, vinyasa yoga, and hatha yoga, all take you down different training paths. Be cautious of training programs at your local yoga studio that require you to spend thousands and thousands of dollars to become a yoga teacher. Shop around until you find a program you like at a reasonable price. Many studios require at least a 200 hour certified yoga teacher (CYT) credential to teach classes.

If you want to become a yoga instructor, gather as much information as possible on the subject. Look for books about teaching yoga online, at local book stores, and at your local library. Also, ask a current yoga instructor for their advice on the subject. They can help you find the facts you need to choose a preparatory program. They may even offer to be your mentor.

Teaching yoga is one of the most fulfilling jobs available. Not only do you get to enhance your own personal sense of joy and well-being, you also get to share your happiness with others. However you choose to prepare for this wonderful vocation, be sure to enjoy your training and development.

In the United States, the Yoga Alliance is a nationally recognized organization that sets the standards for Registered Yoga Teachers. There are different levels of registration from the Yoga Alliance. For example: There is the 200 hour and the 500 hour teacher level. Their names refer to the length of the programs. Once you have completed your Yoga Alliance training, you can use the letters RYT after your name, which stand for Registered Yoga Teacher.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Lisa Dunsdon

The word yoga is often interpreted as "union" or a method of discipline from the Sanskrit word "yuj" (to yoke or bind). A male practitioner is called a yogi, a female practitioner, a yogini. The Postures ....

The contemporary western approach to yoga is not based on any particular belief or religion, however Yoga does has its roots in Hinduism and Brahmanism. Yoga was developed by seers or ascetics living primarily in the southern parts of India. The seers observed nature and lived as close as they could to the earth, studying the many aspects of nature, the animals and themselves. By observing and emulating the different postures and habits of the animal kingdom they were able to develop grace, strength and wisdom.

It was through these very disciplined lives that the practice of the yoga postures were developed. It was necessary to develop a series of postures to keep the body lithe and able to endure long periods of stillness when in meditation. The Writings ....

Brahmanism dates back to containing sacred scriptures called "the Vedas". These scriptures contained instructions and incantations. It was in the oldest text "Rg-Veda" from the scriptures that the word Yoga first appeared, this was nearly 5000 years ago. The fourth text called "Atharva-Veda" contains mainly spells for magical rites and health cures many of which use medicinal plants. This text provided the average person with the spells and incantations to use in their everyday life and this practice of "Veda" can still be seen in the streets of India today. The Bhagavad-Gita, another ancient work on spiritual life describes itself as a yoga treatise, although it uses the word Yoga as a spiritual means. It was from this literature that Patanjali's "eight limbs of yoga" were developed. Yoga Sutra's are primarily concerned with developing the "nature of the mind" and I will explain more of this in the next section.

The Breadth ....

The vratyas, a group of fertility priests who worshipped Rudra, god of the wind would attempt to imitate the sound of the wind through their singing. They found that they could produce the sound through the control of their breath and through this practice of breath control was formed "Pranayama". Pranayama is the practice of breath control in yoga.

The Paths ....

The Upanishads, which are the sacred revelations of ancient Hinduism developed the two disciplines of karma yoga, the path of action and jnana yoga, the path of knowledge. The paths were developed to help the student liberate from suffering and eventually gain enlightenment. The teaching from the Upanishads differed from that of the Vedas. The Vedas demanded external offerings to the gods in order to have an abundant, happy life. The Upanishads through the practice of Karma yoga focused on the internal sacrifice of the ego in order to liberate from suffering. Instead of the sacrifice of crops and animals (external) it was the sacrifice of the inner ego that would become the basic philosophy, thus yoga became known as the path of renunciation.

Yoga shares some characteristics also with Buddhism that can be traced back through history. During the sixth century B.C., Buddhism also stresses the importance of Meditation and the practice of physical postures. Siddharta Gautama was the first Buddhist to actually study Yoga.

What is Yoga Sutra and how did the Philosophy of Yoga develop?

Yoga Sutra is a compilation of 195 statements which essentially provide an ethical guide for living a moral life and incorporating the science of yoga into it. An Indian sage called Patanjali was believed to have collated this over 2000 years ago and it has become the cornerstone for classical yoga philosophy.

The word sutra means literally "a thread" and is used to denote a particular form of written and oral communication. Because of the brusque style the sutras are written in the student must rely on a guru to interpret the philosophy contained within each one. The meaning within each of the sutras can be tailored to the student's particular needs.

The Yoga Sutra is a system of yoga however there is not a single description of a posture or asana in it! Patanjali developed a guide for living the right life. The core of his teachings is the "eightfold path of yoga" or "the eight limbs of Patanjali" . These are Patanjali's suggestions for living a better life through yoga.

Posture and breath control, the two fundamental practices of yoga are described as the third and fourth limbs in Patanjali's eight-limbed path to self-realisation. The third practice of the postures make up today's modern yoga. When you join a yoga class you may find that is all you need to suit your lifestyle.

The eight limbs of yoga

1. The yamas (restraints),
These are like "Morals" you live your life by: Your social conduct:
� Nonviolence (ahimsa) - To not hurt a living creature
� Truth and honesty (satya) - To not lie
� Nonstealing (asteya) - To not steal
� Nonlust (brahmacharya) - avoid meaningless sexual encounters - moderation in sex and all things.
� Nonpossessiveness or non-greed (aparigraha) - don't hoard, free yourself from greed and material desires

2. niyamas (observances),
These are how we treat ourselves, our inner discipline:
� Purity (shauca). Achieving purity through the practice of the five Yamas. Treating your body as a temple and looking after it.
� Contentment (santosha). Find happiness in what you have and what you do. Take responsibility for where you are, seek happiness in the moment and choose to grow.
� Austerity (tapas): Develop self discipline. Show discipline in body, speech, and mind to aim for a higher spiritual purpose.
� Study of the sacred text (svadhyaya). Education. Study books relevant to you which inspire and teach you.
� Living with an awareness of the Divine (ishvara-pranidhana). Be devoted to whatever is your god or whatever you see as the divine.

3. asana (postures) -
These are the postures of yoga:
� To create a supple body in order to sit for a lengthy time and still the mind. If you can control the body you can also control the mind. Patanjali and other ancient yogis used asana to prepare the body for meditation.
Just the practice of the yoga postures can benefit one's health. It can be started at any time and any age. As we grow older we stiffen, do you remember the last time you may have squatted down to pick something up and how you felt? Imagine as you age into your fifties, sixties, seventies and on being able to still touch your toes or balance on one leg. Did you know that the majority of injuries sustained by the elderly are from falls? We tend to lose our balance as we grow older and to practice something that will help this is surely a benefit.
The fourth limb, breath control is a good vehicle to use if you are interested in learning meditation and relaxation.......

4. pranayama (breathing) - the control of breath:
inhalation, retention of breath, and exhalation
� The practice of breathing makes it easier to concentrate and meditate. Prana is the energy that exists everywhere, it is the life force that flows through each of us through our breath.
5. pratyahara (withdrawal of senses),
� Pratyahara is a withdrawal of the senses. It occurs during meditation, breathing exercises, or the practice of yoga postures. When you master Pratyahara you will be able to focus and concentrate and not be distracted by outward sensory.
6. dharana (concentration), - teaching the mind to focus.
� When concentrating there is no sense of time. The aim is to still the mind e.g. fixing the mind on one object and pushing any thoughts. True dharana is when the mind can concentrate effortlessly.
7. Dhyani (meditation), - the state of meditation
� Concentration (dharana) leads to the state of meditation. In meditation, one has a heightened sense of awareness and is one with the universe. It is being unaware of any distractions.
8. samadhi (absorption), - absolute bliss
� Absolute bliss is the ultimate goal of meditation. This is a state of union with yourself and your god or the devine, this is when you and the universe are one.

All eight limbs work together: The first five are about the body and brain- yama, niyama asana, pranayama, and pratyahara - these are the foundations of yoga and provide a platform for a spiritual life. The last three are about reconditioning the mind. They were developed to help the practitioner to attain enlightenment or oneness with Spirit.

How do you choose the type of yoga right for you?

The type of yoga you choose to practice is entirely an individual preference and thus why we are looking into here to help you start. Some types hold the postures longer, some move through them quicker. Some styles focus on body alignment, others differ in the rhythm and selection of postures, meditation and spiritual realization. All are adaptable to the student's physical situation. You therefore need to determine what Yoga style by your individual psychological and physical needs. You may just want a vigorous workout, want to focus on developing your flexibility or balance. Do you want more focus on meditation or just the health aspects? Some schools teach relaxation, some focus on strength and agility, and others are more aerobic.

I suggest you try a few different classes in your area. I have noticed that even between teachers within a certain style, there can be differences in how the student enjoys the class. It is important to find a teacher that you feel comfortable with to truly enjoy and therefore create longevity in what you practice.

Once you start learning the postures and adapting them for your body you may feel comfortable to do practice at home as well! All yoga types have sequences that can be practiced to work different parts of your body. To A fifteen minute practice in the morning may be your start to the day. Your body will feel strong and lithe within no time and with knowledge, the choice is there for you to develop your own routines.

The Major Systems of Yoga

The two major systems of yoga are Hatha and Yoga Raja Yoga. Raja yoga is based on the "Eight Limbs of Yoga" developed by Pananjali in the Yoga Sutras. Raja is part of the classical Indian System of Hindu Philosophy.

Hatha yoga, also Hatha vidya is a particular system of Yoga founded by Swatmarama, a yogic sage of the 15th centry in India. Swatmarama compiled the "Hatha Yoga Pradipika", which introduced the system of Hatha Yoga. Hatha yoga is derived from a number of different traditions. It comes from the traditions of Buddhism which include the Hinayana (narrow path) and Mahayana (great path). It also comes from the traditions of Tantra which include Sahajayana (spontaneous path) and Vajrayana (concerning matters of sexuality). Within Hatha yoga there are various branches or styles of yoga. This form of yoga works through the physical medium of the body using postures, breathing exercises and cleansing practices.

The Hatha Yoga of Swatmarama differs from the Raja Yoga of Patanjali in that it focuses on Shatkarma, "the purification of the physical" as a path leading to "purification of the mind" and "vital energy". Patanjali begins with "purification of the mind and spirit" and then "the body" through postures and breath.

The Major Schools of Yoga

There are approximately forty-four major schools of Yoga and many others which also lay claim to being Yogic. Some of the major schools are Raja Yoga and Hatha Yoga (as mentioned above). There are also Pranayama Yoga and Kundalini Yoga which stem from Hatha. Jnana, Karma, Bhakti, Astanga and Iyengar stem from Raja.

The Yoga Styles that stem from Hatha include:

Pranayama Yoga

The word pranayama means prana, energy and ayama, stretch. Breath regulation, prolongation, expansion, length, stretch and control describes the action of pranayama yoga. Some Pranayama breath controls are included in the Hatha Yoga practices of a general nature (to correct breathing difficulties).

This school of yoga is entirely built around the concept of Prana (life's energy). There are about 99 different postures of which a lot of these are based around or similar to physical breathing exercises.

Pranayama also denotes cosmic power, or the power of the entire universe which manifests itself as conscious living being in us through the phenomenon of breathing.

Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini yoga is in the tradition of Yogi Bhajan who brought the style to the west in 1969. It is a highly spiritual approach to hatha yoga involving chanting, meditation, breathing techniques all used to raise the kundalini energy which is located at the base of the spine.

The Yoga Styles that stem from Raja include:

Raja Yoga/Ashtanga Yoga

Raja means royal or kingly. It is based on directing one's life force to bring the mind and emotions into balance. By doing so the attention can then be focused on the object of the meditation, namely the Devine. Raja Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga is one of the four major Yogic paths of Hinduism. The others are Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga and Bhakti Yoga. Raja or Ashtanga are derived from the "eight limbs of Yoga" philosophy composed by Patanjali.

Power Yoga

Power Yoga has been devised through the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, a renowned Sanskrit scholar who inspired Western Yogis with his Ashtanga Yoga Style and philosophies. It is therefore often referred to as the western version of India's Ashtanga yoga. Power yoga is vigorous and athletic and is therefore very popular with men. It works with the student's mental attitude and perspective and incorporates the eight limbs of yoga into practice.

Jnana Yoga

Jnana (sometimes spelled "Gnana") means wisdom and a Jnani is a wise man. Sometimes referred to as the" yogi of discernment".

This form of yoga focuses on studying inner life and adhyatmic subjects, the practice of certain relaxations and contemplative, meditative kriyas. The main purpose of jnana meditation is to withdraw the mind and emotions from perceiving life and oneself in a deluded way so that one may behold and live in attunement with reality or spirit. This form of yoga focuses on meditation to work towards transformation and enlightenment.

Karma Yoga

Karma means "action". Karma yoga is based around the discipline of action based on the teachings of Bhagavad Gita, a holy scripture of Hinduism. This yoga of selfless service focuses on the adherence to duty (dharma) while remaining detached from the reward. Karma is the sum total of our acts, both in the present life and in the preceding births.

Bhakti Yoga

Bhaki yoga has many phases to it's practice. Bhaki means "devotion" and Guna Bhaki is to worship according to your nature. A practitioner of Bhakta Yoga is not limited to any one culture or religious denomination, the approach is more to the inner life rather than the wholly devotional. The self within worships the self of the universal nature.

Bhaki yoga is the state of being in contact with our existence and being and the existence and being of all things. It doesn't matter if you believe in something or you don't the only quality is the openness to the mind and heart, unexpected and unknown.

Those who have read about Quantum physics where each and every atom in the universe is connected to the underlying reality will be able to liken this to the philosophy behind Bhaki yoga.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga was developed in India by B.K.S Iyengar, born 14th December, 1918. At the age of 16, he was introduced to yoga by his Guru Sri T. Krishnamacharya. Iyengar Yoga is now one of the most popular styles practiced in the west.

Instructors are very knowledgeable about the anatomy and precise body place for each posture. There is less focus on pranayama or breathing techniques and mediation and thus why the practice is popular in the west.

Iyengar Yoga emphasizes more on the correct placement of the feet to ensure the spine and the hips are in alignment. Iyengar has developed many different props and techniques to cater for individuals in their practice.

Other Styles

Integral Yoga or Purna Yoga Integral yoga is a yoga of synthesis, harmonizing the paths of karma, jnana and bhakti yogas. It was developed by Swami Satchidananda.

It is also considered a synthesis between Vedanta (Indian system of philosophy) and Tantra (Asian beliefs and practices using the principle that the divine energy creates and maintains the universe, channelling the energy within the human microcosm). It also been explained as a synthesis between Eastern and Western approaches to spirituality.

Postures are gentler than other forms of yoga and classes normally end with extended periods of deep relaxation, breathing and meditation. Integral Yoga is an all round approach to hatha yoga.

Sivananda Yoga

Sivananda yoga offers a gentle approach. It includes meditation, chanting and deep relaxation in each session. Students are encouraged to be healthy which includes being vegetarian.

Bikrams Yoga

Bikrams yoga was founded by Bikram Choudhury who was taught by Bishni Ghosh the brother of Paramahansa Yogananda. Bikrams Yoga is taught generally in a room the temperature set between 95 and 105 degrees.

The heat helps soften the muscles and ligaments. There are approximately 26 postures and this yoga produces a real workout because of the heat is quite intense. This yoga therefore places more emphasis on the physical performance of the postures, not the sides of relaxation and meditation.

Some of the Great Teachers...

All styles share a common lineage. The founders of two of the major styles of yoga Raja/Ashtanga and Avenger were all students of the same great teacher named Krishnamacharya. Shri T. Krishnamacharya,was born in the village of Muchukunte, Karnataka State, in 1888. His formal Education, largely in Sanskrit, included Degrees from several universities in North India. He studied for seven years under a distinguished yogi in western Tibet: Rama Mohana Brahmachari who instructed him the therapeutic use of asanas & pranayama. Then he returned to South India and established a school of yoga in the palace of the Maharajah of Mysore. He passed away at the age of 101 years in 1988.

Integral Yoga and Sivananda Yoga were also founded by students of another great teacher named Sivananda. Swami Sivananda Saraswati was born Kuppuswamy in Pattamadai, Tamil Nadu, India. A Hindu by birth, he is a well-known proponent of yoga and vedanta (a principal branch of Hindu philosophy).

He is reputed to have written over 300 books, on these and related subjects, during his life. In 1936 he founded the new religious movement "The Divine Life Society" on the bank of the holy Ganges River. He died on the 14th July, 1963.

So which type is right for you?

These are not all the types of yoga available, however you can see from the short explanations of each that Yoga practice can differ dramatically. Each one makes use of the physical postures and breathing to strengthen the body for meditation, an inherent part of yoga practice. This is where it is important for the student to understand what they want out of their yoga practice and choose a style which will cater for this. If you try one and don't think it is physical enough, try another as it will be totally different. If you start one that is too demanding than again switch around until you find the practice for you.

Some of us want to just work on body and some want more focus on a method of searching for self realisation, whatever the reason I am sure there are enough styles out their and more developing each day to cater for our needs.

You are never too old to start yoga, I have met people in their seventies starting for the first time and experiencing life changing affects. If you've ever sat and watched your cat or dog awake in the morning what is the first thing they do? stretch. If we stop for just a moment and watch what we can learn from nature and the animal kingdom we will realize that just the simple act of stretching has been lost somewhere through our evolution.

The table below shows the rating between 1 and 10 I have given to explain the degree of Physical and degree of Meditation/Relaxation in each Yoga practice (10 being the highest)

Name of Yoga Physical Rating Meditation & Relaxation Rating

Pranayama Yoga 4 8 Kundalini Yoga 6 8 Raja Yoga/Ashtanga Yoga 10 6 Power Yoga 10 2 Jnana Yoga 6 8 Karma Yoga 6 8 Bhakti Yoga 6 8 Iyengar Yoga 8 4 Integral Yoga or Purna Yoga 6 8 Sivananda Yoga 6 8 Bikrams Yoga 10 (due to the heat) 2

Lisa runs "Khata" supplies "gifts of significance" for those special people in your life that have an interest in Eastern Arts , philosophy and culture.

She believes that utilising physical movement to understand about your body and self is a powerful tool for" self development". She also supports and promotes the various forms of physical exercise and movement in eastern culture such as Tai Chi, QiGong, Yoga and Martial Arts. You will find lots of articles of interest on her "articles" page in these areas a: http://www.khata.com.au

By Paul Jerard

Everyone wants to be in better shape. There are multitudes of exercise programs and fitness regimens out there. New-fangled machinery and tools are constantly showing up on television, promising instant results; but these new ideas still can't stand up to the ancient art of yoga.

The history of yoga dates back millennia. It's believed that yoga originally developed in India. The word yoga is a Sanskrit word that roughly translates to "uniting." While it is connected to many Indian religions, it's not a religion itself. Yoga is regarded as both a philosophy and a science.

The earliest discoveries of yogic positions are the Indus Valley seals. Dating to the third millennium B.C., these seals show figures in different poses. These are believed to be the precursors to the modern form of yoga. Some archaeologists suggest that these positions were performed by humans and deities in ancient beliefs.

John Marshall discovered the most famous of these seals, the Pashupati seal. He claimed that it represented a Shiva figure, though modern archaeologists dispute this. There is still debate on whether these seals represent yoga at all.

Yoga is a 5,000 year old practice, but began appearing in Sanskrit texts much later. Some of these texts, called the Upanishads, outline many principle beliefs of Hinduism including the philosophy of yoga. Later, Patanjali's Yoga Sutras united many texts to form a grand summary of early yoga. The Yoga Sutras connect these practices to the Hindu belief system.

Quieting the mind, tranquility, and being present in this life, are some of the primary goals of yoga, as prescribed by Patanjali. At the time of this writing, becoming a yoga instructor is a part of mastering this discipline. By helping others, we also achieve a tranquil state of mind.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Padma Yip

Through overwhelming study and extensive experimentation with the art of leading a better life through the practice of yoga, Gillian Marloth and Teigh McDonough created Yoga Booty Ballet.

With a vision to help women look and feel their best, Gillian Marloth and Teigh McDonough developed the Yoga Booty Ballet program by fusing the basic components of the yoga with certain dance activities. This has turned out to be an enjoyable session which also helps with weight loss and developing proper muscle tone.

Students claim to feel the difference dramatically after only a couple of weeks in the class. The Yoga Booty Ballet program has been developed so that the students not only lose weight, but also feel an innate strength, dignity and self-confidence. These merge together to make the students feel beautiful, inside and out.

Yoga Booty Ballet Online

Gillian and Teigh have been working on providing programmed guidelines of their Yoga Booty Ballet course electronically. They have created a total package of the overall program categorized under three distinctive heads in DVDs and CDs.

Gillian and Teigh have made "Beginner - The Rehearsal & Guide Meditation", meant for guiding students through the process of meditation and postures. One level up is "Total Tonic Basics". This is a systematic guide to get started with full body workouts. It includes the enjoyable and synchronized action of yoga, positions, modern dance, ballet and abdominal work that strengthen both the physical and mental configurations.

The third chapter of Yoga Booty Ballet program is "Advanced Fat Burning". It is composed of certain advanced actions, dances and more complex form of yoga and meditation.

Worldwide Acceptance

The Yoga Booty Ballet program has enjoyed a high degree of admiration and worldwide acceptance.

The program has proved to be so fruitful that the professional Reiki Heelers and physiotherapists have also started to promote it. The Yoga Booty Ballet concept is a fairly recent idea, but within a short time it has become the secret success story of some Hollywood stars as well.

Padma Yip studies Ashtanga Yoga as well as many other yoga disciplines. Read more from Padma at All Yoga.

By Paul Jerard

There are many styles of yoga, but teachers should be familiar with the nine main forms of yoga, from India, and their relationships to contemporary styles. The nine main styles are: Bhakti, Hatha, Jnana, Karma, Kundalini, Mantra, Raja, Tantric, and Yantra Yoga. Bhakti yoga is widely practiced in India, yet barely known by the masses outside of India.

If you're looking to become a yoga instructor, you must be thoroughly trained and ready to cater to a variety of student needs. A competent yoga instructor should be well-versed in many aspects of yoga. Different styles emphasize varying aspects of yoga. Some may focus on the coordination of breath and movement, while others focus on the proper alignment of the body. Others use atmospheric conditions as the basis of the style.

Globally, one of the most popular styles is Hatha yoga. This is a style that focuses on slow, meditative breathing and relaxed postures. A yoga instructor will slowly guide students through poses one at a time. Many people, who attend Hatha classes, appreciate the relaxed feeling they get from the exercise aspects. Some people, who try Hatha classes, do not like the slow-pace and are searching for a higher-intensity exercise.

Vinyasa yoga, sometimes called Flow or Power yoga, contains a completely different focus, in comparison to the meditative Hatha. Vinyasa is called, Flow or Power, because of its emphasis on smooth and powerful movements. The teacher will guide students through a series of poses, changing them in rhythm with the breath.

The poses run together like a dance. Vinyasa classes can be either, high or low intensity, depending upon the yoga instructor's emphasis. Vinyasa can be very diverse because it allows the yoga instructor to interject their personality into the routines.

Vinyasa, Flow, or Power yoga, draws sequences from Hatha or Raja yoga, depending upon the instructor's lineage. Raja is the form of yoga, which Maharishi Pantanjali describes in the Yoga Sutras. It should be noted that Raja is sometimes called, Ashtanga, which means "eight limbs."

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Paul Jerard

What does it take to become a yoga instructor? You've practiced the positions and breathing techniques, almost every day, for years. You've gained a deeper understanding of the benefits of yoga and wish to share your knowledge with others. If you're willing to find a training program, the steps to yoga certification are simple.

Though the discipline has been popular for some time, yoga teacher training is far from standardized. Most training programs require that you have a minimum level of experience in yoga before being an instructor. Some require yoga postures (asanas), such as headstands. Others insist that you must be approved by the instructor who is training you. Some certification courses can be taken online or by correspondence.

Yoga is an ancient discipline that has traditionally been passed directly from teacher to student on a one-to-one basis. The idea of a class is relatively new. These days, the speed of information being exchanged, has changed everything including traditional forms of training.

Though there is no single "official" certification program, there are groups designed to keep the study organized. Usually, certifying bodies train an intern to become a Certified Yoga Teacher (CYT), after 200 hours of training. This credential alone is usually enough to begin teaching students in public yoga classes. If you are seeking more credentials, you may decide to train for a 500 hour credential or become a Registered Yoga Teacher.

In the United States, yoga registration is generally handled by the Yoga Alliance. The Yoga Alliance is recognized, within the industry, as a registration program that helps maintain the high standards of yoga. It has different levels of yoga registration.

The first program requires two hundred hours of training, and is sometimes a requirement for employment in a studio. There is also a five hundred hour program for those who want advanced registration. Finally, there are experienced levels of registration, which have the designation, E-RYT.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Nikki Davila

So many people seem to be interested in free online yoga classes. Some may just be curious while others may not be able to afford full yoga classes yet. If you are in search of free classes, there are a couple of things that you should have in mind first.

The Benefits of Yoga

First of all, it is important to understand why yoga is worth your time and effort. Yoga has a great many benefits. It improves your physical strength and flexibility and keeps your organs and systems functioning properly. It also calms and relaxes you and relieves pain and stress. In the end, yoga ultimately leads people to physical, mental and spiritual harmony. In other words, yoga can help you achieve overall health and change the way you respond to life situations and conditions.

Free Online Yoga Instructions

Many sites now offer yoga instruction for free, and there are many ways you can get instructions. Some sites offer step by step e-mail instruction while others provide free newsletters. The more advanced sites will let you download whole yoga class videos or view the videos online. The perfect choice of mode of instruction will depend on your learning style and preference. Regardless of your mode choice, you should always pick a free offer that provides clear and easy to understand instructions to avoid possible injury.

Different Kinds of Yoga

Before you go for any free online yoga program, you should know that there are different kinds of yoga. Yoga techniques can fall under Kundalini, Hatha, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Bikram and others. You need to find out first what kind of yoga you would like to learn and practice.

Free yoga videos can be for either beginners or more advanced students. Check the level before downloading the material. Otherwise, you might get into techniques that are not good for you to handle on your own. In some cases, a free yoga program may only teach you yoga techniques up to a certain point, and you need to find out for yourself whether free program is fully geared or will leave you hanging.

Yoga Instructors

Just as there are different yoga disciplines, there are also a great number of yoga masters. This is especially true online. Since authenticity is a little difficult to check on the internet, some scam artists may even pose as yoga masters. Do a little research on where exactly your free material comes from. This can protect you from injury and help you achieve the goal of yoga better.

Self-Monitoring

Since you are on a free program, you have to understand that your pace of improvement relies heavily on you. Without an actual instructor staying with you to check on your performance, you have to watch out for yourself. Even if you have a very good free material, you may not fully enjoy the benefits of yoga if you do not follow the instructions seriously or correctly.

Some free online yoga materials can be just as good as the paid ones and can truly change your life. You need to be sure though that you have the right materials and the commitment to practice yoga techniques on your own.

If you are truly interested in taking free online yoga class, you may like to get started with our free yoga videos. While you are on our site, you can even narrow your video search with your own specific queries. You can also get a complete guide on yoga class, yoga teacher, and different types of yoga from our main site.

By Cameron Karsten

Yoga is the art of release. It is the study of one's concentration upon the diverse layers of the body, exploring deeper with an advanced focus into the mind, until eventually delving and settling forever within the spirit. This ancient tradition of breath, movement and meditation developed within the Hindu culture of the Indian subcontinent becomes the practitioner's sacred ritual. Therefore, finding the right yoga retreat is equally a part of one's practice as is a particular inhalation of breath, an exhalation into a specific posture, or the stillness of silent observation. The right retreat must align with the right individual, and only then will one have the relaxation to let go and discover the true depths of their yogic journey.

The Destination Is Also The Journey

Yoga retreats are aplenty. They come in all different shapes, sizes, destinations and complete packages. Some offer 24/7 yoga, strict meal guidelines, and absolute silence. Others begin the day with a series of opening postures (or asanas in Sanskrit), and then immerse participants in the culture of their environment, performing creative activities and restorative downtime. The day ends with a final series of relaxation. It's all up to you-the practitioner. It is your practice and only yours. So how do you find the right retreat?

Close the eyes. Take a long inhalation through the nose. Hold. Now release all breath out of the mouth. Settle into your seat and relax. Imagine you yoga-ing. Imagine the setting. Where would it be?

To offer a little input, I'm on a beach. I'm not in the Himalayas watching a fast approaching lightning storm upside down while shaking in Sirsha-asana (or head-stand pose). No. I'm in the tropics, half naked (okay... completely naked) on warm sands with the sound of the ocean's waves cresting upon one another. Breezy palm trees rustle overhead and their shadows offer refreshing shelters. I am far from the office, the phone calls, the expectations others' harbor of me. These are long gone and far out of mind. I am relaxed, warm, at peace and loving life.

Your dreamy setting might be different. It might not. No matter, it's your yoga practice (as the conscious instructor reiterates); therefore it's your yoga retreat.

Take Me To Your Leader

From the location of the retreat, the next important element of the practice is who's teaching. Who is it that will lead you through the doorways of your "guesthouse" as the Sufi mystic Jelaluddin Rumi referred to when speaking of the body? Whose guidance will you trust and surrender to? At best, it's safe to say that if a professional institution certifies the teacher you have no reason to doubt their practice and capabilities. However, each person's style of teaching is unique and each system of yoga is different. Search their name on the Internet, find their website and if possible take their classes. Acquire feedback and read their students' testimonials. Where have they lead retreats before? And most of all, find an instructor whose style of practice and system of yoga aligns with your needs. But how do you do that? There can't be that many traditions of yoga...

Oh yes. There is Hatha Yoga, Yin Yoga, Flow Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Bikram Yoga, etc., etc., etc. The list goes on and for the practitioner to choose the most fitting retreat it is advisable to carry basic knowledge about and experience within that appropriate yogic system.

For example, you're looking to work yourself. You want to physically sweat, strain, push and endure your entire body-muscles, joints, ligaments, bones and all-then open the doors to a vigorous Ashtanga practice. Or say you're seeking peace and tranquility-long restorative postures-then settle into a form of Yin Yoga. The choices are as many as the thoughts found within the mind.

Your Life, Your Retreat

With a destination and style of yoga pinned down, then it's up to you to find out what is being offered beyond your guesthouse's doorstep. Check the local studios for flyers. Browse through conscientious periodicals and publications that focus on spirituality and self-improvement. Search the Internet for retreats in specific destinations or in a certain tradition of practice. Ask your friends. Ask the universe. Ask yourself.

A yoga retreat is a sacred offering to your body, your guesthouse, your temple. It is time taken off the daily frivolities of "making-a-living" in order to honor who you are; in order to develop the mind, body and soul closer to a state of relaxation and peace. In essence, yoga is learning how to accept and love oneself whole-heartedly and unconditionally.

Practice your yoga practice. Observe your breath and welcome all sensations of the body. Let the mind go and find your perfect yoga retreat to learn to release and live your own life.

Resources:

Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa, & Flow Yoga by Laura DeFreitas: LauraNidra.com

August 2008 Retreat: Yoga Retreat & Festival Season in Bali, Indonesia

The Yoga Journal: YogaJournal.com

By Paul Jerard

For Yoga teachers, there are many advantages to fine tuning the art of spoken communication. When compared to writing, speaking is much more personal. The interaction with one student, or an entire class, establishes a rapport.

Working face-to-face, with a class, allows you to use voice inflection, body language, facial expressions, and hand gestures. Through this, you have created a form of unconscious human interaction, which results in trust.

Some Yoga instructors manage to make each student feel important during class time. A Yoga instructor gives physical assists, when needed, and addresses each student's needs. This is much different from being a public speaker because of the student / teacher relationship.

Yet, a public speaker must also establish a bond, develop trust, and create an open atmosphere. In any type of classroom setting, the student should never be afraid to ask a question. The open environment enables the collective group to make progress, and prevents misunderstandings.

Once open communication is established, there are no limits as to what students can learn in your Yoga classes. Information is exchanged rapidly, clearly, and without confusion. Many times, sincere students, who ask in-depth questions, stimulate the interest of the entire group.

Some Yoga teachers have a firm policy of not answering questions during class time. The concern, among these teachers, is how to handle a disruptive, or ego-driven, student. If you have a person who you feel is purposely disrupting the class, keep your answer short and offer to discuss the question after class.

Yoga instructors can misunderstand the motives behind a student's questions or actions too. Take the time to see the big picture and resist judgments. The student, who is curious, has sought you out for the answers to his or her questions. Students, who ask a lot of questions, cause us to research an old topic again. There is no harm in this because curious students make their teachers better.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

By Paul Jerard

Where should one start learning about yoga? The classic yogic texts are a good start. In particular Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are a good summarization of early yogic philosophy. While these early texts can provide us with many lessons, they are not the limits of modern yoga.

In India, Nepal, and Tibet, many of the old traditions are kept alive. Many people, in these countries, have derived beliefs from the traditions, even though they aren't dedicated to the philosophy. The old system of yogis has given way to the yoga instructor.

Remember that yoga is no longer connected with any particular religion. This is why people, from different belief structures, have begun to practice. Decades ago, many religions looked upon yoga as some form of devil worship or New Age tomfoolery. Fortunately, times have changed and minds have opened up to the health and spiritual benefits of a yoga program.

Western yoga has been used primarily as a form of physical exercise. The emphasis on the ancient beliefs and rituals has been put aside. Now yoga is used as a flexibility regimen. Its breathing exercises have allowed everyone, from business people to baseball coaches, reach the highest state of relaxation. Christians, Muslims, and even atheists, have become devout followers of yoga. With the right program, a yoga certification is within anyone's grasp.

Yoga eases the pain of back problems and helps people lose weight. It increases strength and flexibility. Studies have shown a decrease in blood pressure, stress, and heart rate, in regular practitioners. Other reported benefits are decreased arthritis pain and increased bowel performance.

From Iyengar to Bikram, there are yoga styles for everyone. By providing an understanding of how the body works, this ancient art has enabled people, of all shapes and sizes, become healthier. Become a yoga instructor and join millions on the path to self-aware health.

ฉ Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html