Learning to Relax at a Yoga Retreat in Costa Rica



Yoga, the word brings many different images to the minds of different people. Many people will think of awkward stretches done by impossibly flexible people. Some will imagine Buddhists in an incense filled room, sitting cross legged and chanting. Others still will picture a gym filled with housewives, gossip and juice bars. If allowed to expand on their thoughts, each of these will eventually find an underlying similarity. The one thing that almost everyone associates with yoga is peace, serenity, tranquility, relaxation. What could be a more perfect place to learn to practice yoga than a beautiful beach at the edge of a thriving rain forest? Find your own inner peace at a yoga retreat in Costa Rica!

In today's crazy life people neglect to take time out and just relax. Often their exercise programs are stressful, trainers keeping on them, finding time to get to the gym, and the exercise itself increasing endorphins; not really relaxing at all. Most people even seem to come back from a vacation needing a vacation from it! Travel arrangements, trying to fit in everything to make everyone happy, the stress of just knowing you should be just relaxing and having a good time gets to many people. Let's face it, most people today have no idea where to start when it comes to just relaxing and being at peace. A yoga retreat in Costa Rica is just the place to get you started on the path to learning to let go of the stress.

A gently guided vacation, in a location with plenty of clean fresh air from the rain forest, beautiful waterfalls, and warm, sandy beaches will put you in the right frame of mind to either begin your studies in yoga, or even to continue on and find yourself understanding better what regular practicing yoga can do for you as a whole. The well trained instructors know how to create a wonderful flow that will work for any level of yoga experience. Physically, mentally and emotionally you will be guided, learning how to push yourself to reaching higher goals.

Costa Rica is like a mini paradise. A yoga retreat in Costa Rica means taking a self enrichment course in a location worthy of the most luxurious of vacations. You will have everything you need to be able to truly something that you can take with you for the rest of your life. The experience of being abroad, the incredible location, and the actual yoga instruction is something that you will not experience so totally anywhere else. You deserve to do this for yourself, and in turn your new found peace and serenity will pass on to your friends, family and co-workers.
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Foldover Yoga Pants-Comfortable



Foldover yoga pants are the real deal! Originally created for yoga classes, these pants have bridged over into recent day fashion. If you ever get a chance to watch you will see many people wearing foldover yoga pants on TV, coming out of yoga classes, going out partying, expectant mothers and even grand mothers.

Foldover yoga pants come in numerous cuts and styles. You can pick from low rise, flared leg, regular cut, Capri and tight fitting. Foldover yoga pants come in just about any length and cut to not only make you give you a perky backside but boost your confidence as well.

Several high power fashion designers have started designing foldover yoga pants to their design lines because of their versatility and notoriety. Victoria Secret is currently show casing their line on the run ways everywhere!

With the state of the economy, you need things that will last. Foldover yoga pants are a great buy and even after numerous washings they do not pile or fade. Obviously this depends on the material and construction, but most well known designers stand behind their product.
Prices for foldover yoga pants range from $11.99 to $160.99 and really other than the tag inside, no one but you will know how much you really paid.

I have received several compliments not only from people in the gym but when I go on a date. In all truthfulness, you should consider purchasing foldover yoga pants as a versatile piece to your closet.
Article Source: http://www.thatsmyniche.com

Practising Ashtanga Yoga



Yoga is a philosophy of the life, which has also the eventual to create a healthy body and vibrantly spirit. The yoga of Ashtanga vinyasa is a method of the yoga which has it's origins in a known ancient document under the name of korunta yoga. Ashtanga refer specifically to eight the practical spiritual ones described by wise Patanjali in Sutra yoga. It is advisable to note that the experts of the majority of the modern externats of yoga of hatha, including pattabi jois, draw from yoga sutras de patanjali and thus practise the yoga of ashtanga. Means of yoga of Ashtanga exactly "eight-limbed yoga," as described by wise patanjali in sutras yoga.
The yoga of Ashtanga aims at purifying the body by the eight members or stages of yoga. It starts outside with yama which is the order and niyana which is the codes of conduct. They are manners that we trade and with what we can act one on the other with whole reality and ourselves at the same time. These stages cannot be practised but they are the exits morals. This way you can produce environments which supports the constructive increase. The yoga of Ashtanga concentrates on the concept that breathing is essential with the life.
Majority of people who are not able to emit decently simply the catch approximately half of their complete possibilities of lung. Help of asanas too you cut your force and cholesterol inferiors of blood and obtain a robust eye and remain in good health. In terms of mental physical form they lower the effort and the tension in our lives. The four other stages cannot be practised. These stages are about creating the superlative conditions which provide you the true meditation. The fifth stage is known as will pratyahara or withdrawal of your directions. Dhara is concentrated on you to help to concentrate you in a simple direction. Dhayna is a not stopped meditation and Samadhi is about being completely with the art of the self-portrait and to test full absorption.
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The Bikram Yoga Experience



Bikram yoga is a unique experience, to say the least. We've all thought of yoga as a body-bending, flexibility and mind-relaxation exercise, but what's Bikram yoga all about, and why is it supposed to be such an intense experience as so many say?

Bikram yoga is a specific style of yoga founded by Bikram Choudhury. Otherwise known as "hot yoga", Bikram yoga, named after it's founder, is fairly advanced yoga moves done in a one hundred and five degree room with humidity at fifty percent, so you will most definitely be sopping wet when leaving.

The origin of this type of yoga is spiritually derived from Hinduism and regionally from Yoga College of India. Bikram yoga consists of 26 asanas or postures and two breathing exercises.

The word asana translates to the word "seat" which refers to the spirit in relation to the divine. Asanas are intended to lead back to sitting in meditation. Asanas are meant to improve your muscle flexibility and strength.

These moves, called asanas, are supposed to be practiced together with pranayama, or slow breath work for maximum benefit. Your breaths should be through the nose, not the mouth, and should be slow, not forced, and totally natural. To receive maximum benefit from practicing asanas, all tension and tightness in the body should consciously be let go.

A glass of water before practicing asanas enhances the experience and asanas should not be done on a full stomach. The practice of Bikram yoga is meant not only to improve muscle strength and flexibility, but also to establish a balance of our physical beings in relation to the divine.

Yoga is a path to attain a balance of the body, mind and spirit. Yoga can, if done correctly, be a means to control the ongoing complaint in all of our lives, stress. Optimum health is the ultimate goal for everyone of us. Health does not just refer to our physical beings but also to our mental attitudes and spiritual growth.

Bikram or hot yoga addresses emotional as well as physical well being and flexibility. When I visited my daughter in California, she signed me up for my first experience with hot yoga. Being in my fifties, I was a little concerned about the prospect of being a complete amateur at any kind of yoga and the possibility of being the oldest participant in the class.

When I entered the flaming hot classroom, it was clear to me that, to my relief I was not the "oldest one" in the class room. I was happily surprised at my ability to do so many of the postures. My self realization during the hot yoga class was my need to "stress" or hurry up at all times.

Constant focus on slowing down the breath and only breathing through my nose was a challenge for me. The heated room was something I thought I would not be able to tolerate. The fact that the room was so hot and the humidity was so high may seem like an added burden, but in fact, I believe this was the reason I did not come away with muscle aches the next day.

During some of the postures, I was keenly aware of my need to improve my balance and my sense of my physical position in space. For ongoing achievement of balance, I have been practicing the art of yoga via an instructional DVD in my home.

Particularly useful to me, in addition to the improvement of balance is the yoga reminds me to slow down and relax the tension in my body. The concept of the heated room in Bikram yoga is to diminish the risk of injuries and to allow you to go deeper into each posture.

The perspiration experienced during hot yoga enhances the release of toxins. The postures consist of warm up poses that can be done prior to a yoga class. There are standing poses and seated poses. The twist yoga poses have the purpose of strengthening your back, toning the abdomen and helping with digestion.

Inverted poses help you with your circulation. There's supine and backbend poses and finally the finishing poses to end your yoga session with relaxation.

Bikram yoga is designed to assist you to lose weight, tone muscles and increase blood circulation. Since this form of yoga helps lower stress levels, it can improve mental clarity and focus. The relaxation and focus on one's self and inner reflection and complete oneness with one's body allows us to focus more on our lives and even on the job.
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Yoga: Use Your Breath to Calm Your Mind



Yoga is a 6000-year-old form of exercise which not only disciplines the body but conditions the mind as well.

The practice of yoga is largely thought of as just the asanas (postures and exercises), but breath is really at the heart of yoga. Some have said "if you can breathe, then you can do yoga". The use of breathing techniques to quiet your mind is one of the primary objectives of yoga.

By regularly taking the time for yoga, you will become very conscious of your breathing. You will train yourself to control your breath, which will help you become calm and relaxed. As well, the form of your asanas will improve the more you focus on your breathing.

Our minds tend to wander; thinking of the future and the past constantly. With yoga, you'll train yourself to consider the present - where we are, where our bodies exist. The practice of yoga through breathing techniques helps you to draw your thoughts inward and release all of your worries and tensions.

One of the energizing aspects of yoga is that it teaches you the ability to be deeply aware of the present moment, at the same times as you are letting go of the worries and concerns that can cause stress and illness in your body.

Yoga teaches the practice of conscious breathing while doing poses - this fosters consciousness of your technique and greater mental alertness. By drawing your mind into the moment and forgetting all else, you will garner the benefits which yoga has to offer.

While there are a number of breathing exercises associated with yoga which will teach you how to release tension and balance your mind, as a start, try the following exercise.

* Lie or sit comfortably and become aware of your normal state of breathing.

* Still aware of your breath, inhale and exhale 4 counts each several times.

* Next, increase your inhalation and exhalations to 5 counts each.

* Then increase the count to 6 for each inhalation and exhalation. Become aware of your body - make sure that it is relaxed.

* Continue this way until your inhalations and exhalations reach 9 counts. If this is causing you any discomfort, drop the count back down to more comfortable number for you.

* Keep bringing your mind back to your body to check to see if there is any tension anywhere. If there is, try to relax that part of your body.

* Whatever your final number of breaths is, continue breathing with long breaths for several rounds, then drop the counting and breathe naturally for 10 rounds.

What you can gain from this exercise - as you can from a number of other yogic breathing exercises, is the capacity to still your mind and relax your body through mastery over your breath. With some practice, you will become an expert at this technique, able to achieve a state of relaxation any time you are under stress and feeling tense.
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History of Yoga



Yoga is a union of body, mind, and spirit. The history of yoga is long and steeped in tradition. Yoga is an ancient system of health and fitness which originated in India. The word yoga has its first mention in the Rig Veda, the oldest of the sacred texts. Those that study Yoga estimate it's age to be four thousand year.

The history of Yoga can be divided into four main periods which are the pre-classical period, classical period, post-classical period and modern period. In the history of yoga, the book is called the yoga sutras. The history of yoga would not have been completed in the classical stage of yoga.

The word Yoga literally meant the Yolk that joins something together, such as an ox to a cart. The idea is that yoga unites all aspects of being into one.

What most people envision to be Yoga, those contortionist postures, is really only one small aspect of a much larger field of practices. The methods of yoga includes ethical disciplines, physical postures, breathing control and as well as meditation.

The 20th century witnessed a renaissance of yoga that caused a globalization of this ancient tradition. Modern approaches to yoga have created a clear delineation between the Hindu religion and the practice of yoga. Through the practice of yoga, an individual can gain information about physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being.

Over the long history of yoga, different schools have emerged, and there are numerous examples branches and philosophies that have spawned. Ultimately, all agree on one common element the fundamental purpose of yoga is to foster harmony in the body, mind, and environment.

Today yoga is accepted as a comprehensive exercise to promote control of the body and mind. More than just a means of being fit and trim, yoga can help you live a healthy, whole, and empowered life. In recent decades, yoga has greatly and swiftly evolved. Yoga is the most diversified spiritual practice in the world. The living tradition of yoga now recognizes no borders as it continues to spread globally.
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Anxiety Attacks - Try Yoga To Soothe The Stress In Your Mind And The Tension In Your Body!

Times are hard and they just seem to be getting harder! Everyday, we hear more dire news about the economy, sinking stock prices and mounting job losses. Everyone is worried that they will be the next victim. This stress can have damaging effects on your emotional and physical well being.

Stress and worry can lead to more severe anxiety problems, even panic attacks! It is important to keep your mind and body balanced and one great way to do that is to learn yoga.

- Yoga is practiced by more than 6 million Americans and this number is only on the rise. As more and more people are discovering the amazing health and stress reduction effects of this ancient art, it is becoming increasingly commonplace among both men and women. Yoga is not just exercise and it´s not just relaxation, it is a combination of both and it can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their age, gender, flexibility or weight.

- Yoga does incorporate some gymnastics into its movements. There are twists and contortions that will increase your flexibility and help you trim your weight and improve your appearance. To the untrained observer, it might seem like you have to be a contortionist to practice yoga. Nothing could be further from the truth. On the contrary, yoga is all about accepting the limitations of your body in the moment and working towards expanding those limitations to their fullest extent.

- Yoga also includes some meditative practices, a great way to lessen anxiety and prevent panic attacks. Meditation is not just for hippies, it is a way to let go some of the accumulated stresses that build up in our lives and simply be at peace in the moment.

An important aspect of meditation and of the more physical components of yoga is the emphasis on the breath. It is so important to breathe properly and too many of us forget how to breath from our abdomen, Without this deep breathing, we are denying our body, valuable oxygen it needs to deal with the stress we encounter in our lives.

There are many different types of yoga and many different ways to engage in the practice. As a beginner, I suggest you go to a yoga studio. Studio teachers will be more likely to help you get into the position (something you might need) and help you integrate the emotional part of the yoga experience with the physical.

Yoga classes at gyms, tend to be more physical in nature and give short shrift to the meditative component. Do not underestimate the power of meditation or the way it can release muscle tension and provide you with some inner peace. However, once you´ve learned the basics of yoga, attending gym based classes or indulging on your own, will accomplish the same purpose.

If neither of these options are available to you, there are a number of videos and books available that can guide you through the yoga practice although nothing replaces just a few classes for the visual and educational perspective they offer. The key to lower levels of anxiety and even panic attack prevention lay in finding ways to achieve some inner peace and some physical relief.
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Foldover Yoga Pants-Comfortable

Foldover yoga pants are the real deal! Originally created for yoga classes, these pants have bridged over into recent day fashion. If you ever get a chance to watch you will see many people wearing foldover yoga pants on TV, coming out of yoga classes, going out partying, expectant mothers and even grand mothers.

Foldover yoga pants come in numerous cuts and styles. You can pick from low rise, flared leg, regular cut, Capri and tight fitting. Foldover yoga pants come in just about any length and cut to not only make you give you a perky backside but boost your confidence as well.

Several high power fashion designers have started designing foldover yoga pants to their design lines because of their versatility and notoriety. Victoria Secret is currently show casing their line on the run ways everywhere!

With the state of the economy, you need things that will last. Foldover yoga pants are a great buy and even after numerous washings they do not pile or fade. Obviously this depends on the material and construction, but most well known designers stand behind their product.
Prices for foldover yoga pants range from $11.99 to $160.99 and really other than the tag inside, no one but you will know how much you really paid.

I have received several compliments not only from people in the gym but when I go on a date. In all truthfulness, you should consider purchasing foldover yoga pants as a versatile piece to your closet.
Article Source: http://www.thatsmyniche.com

Office Yoga—Make You Thin and healthy at Anytime

Do you feel tired when you sit in your office for a long time? If so, now let us do the actions about Yoga for a while. It will not waste your work time, and it can not only realize yourself but to shape your body.
Prop: desk, chair
Time: as long as opening a website or answering a call or drinking a cup of tea.
Function: Relieve headache and cervical and leg limp or others. One important---shape your body
Step 1, relax your spine
Put the chair steadily, stand on the floor with your left leg and the right leg which show 90 posture steps on the chair. Straight up your back and put your left hand on the right knee. Turn your cervical slowly, look back when your lumbar turn right. Keep this action for 30 second and do it for 3-5times alternately.
Step 2, relax your muscle of your back
You should straight up your legs as wide as your shoulders, and cross your hands in your back, then open and backward your shoulders to the limit of your own for 10-15 second.
Step 3, exercise your lumbar
Hold the back of chair and press your body with your straight legs until your body and leg become 90 degree, and your eyes look forward and keep this pose for 15-30 second.
Step 4, sit on your chair straightly and let your right hand touch your left shoulder from your back, and your left hand hung up your right elbow then make a deep breath. You can keep this pose for 15-30 second and alternated for twice. This can realize your “mouse hand”.
Step 5, stand on the floor straightly and hold your chair with right hand, then hand up your left hand and drive your body press to right, at the same time you should have a deep breath for 15 second and alternate it for twice.
It is very for you and me to do office Yoga. There is no need to the special place and it will not disturb others. You can try it at your leisure time and you will gain many benefits from this way.
Article Source: http://www.articles4y.com

Yoga can alleviate the early symptoms of pregnancy

The symptoms of a pregnancy may be quite severe and you will have to get accustomed to experiencing physical and mental discomfort. Even the early signs of pregnancy are likely to be accompanied by unpleasant effects and you should start looking for the alternative solutions that can alleviate all the negative aspects of the pregnancy. Yoga is among the most effective methods that can be used in order to ease your pregnancy and you will be delighted to find out that each of your trimesters can be addressed by the Yoga lessons in order to alleviate the negative effects. Yoga will teach you how to listen to what your body and your baby have to say to you.

You will become more open minded and this is the main reason why you should use the Yoga techniques in order to alleviate all the early symptoms of pregnancy. The prenatal Yoga can be extremely helpful in order to keep your body safe and secured. You can maintain its shape and you can make it even more flexible than before because the Yoga techniques are designed in order to help you undergo all the changes that are affecting your body. You will have to listen to what these changes are telling in order to find out what is the best thing for you and your unborn baby. You must learn how to stay tuned to everything that happens in your womb.

You will need Yoga lessons that are fit to your body condition and to your pregnancy trimester. The pregnant woman can be helped in order to alleviate the negative and unpleasant early symptoms of pregnancy because Yoga can provide her with the necessary peace of mind and calm. She will become more able to prepare and stay fit for the delivery to come. The labor and the delivery are likely to be easier if you know hoe to maintain your body in the right condition during the pregnancy. You will also be taught how to control your breath and the breathing exercise can be used during your future labor.

Even the muscles will be strengthened and this condition is extremely helpful during the labor and delivery of the baby. You will stretch your body in a healthy way and you will be more able to release all the accumulated tension and stress that can affect your unborn baby unless you do something about it. All the discomforts that are usually associated with a pregnancy are likely to be alleviated and your energy levels will be increased. You will be bale to perform almost every daily activity without getting too tired.

Still, you will have to take care in order not to over exercise. The early symptoms of pregnancy can be alleviated and you will not complain about constant low vitality and fatigue anymore. For instance, you can choose to make some Yoga exercises as soon as you notice the early signs of pregnancy because these exercises were designed in order to increase your energy level. Your immune system will be boosted and you will be able to enhance the digestive system thus providing your baby with all the necessary and nutritious elements. The Yoga positions will also allow you to have comfortable and satisfying sex through your pregnancy without harming your unborn baby.

The Yoga exercises can help you to stay fit both mentally and physically and this help is extremely valuable because its can ease this wonderful experience. You will be more prepared for the labor and delivery to come. But regardless of the exercises you choose, you should consult your doctor in order to provide yourself with detailed information. Yoga exercises can provide you with a smooth pregnancy and you will not experience a hard labor or delivery. This is the best exercise you can make while you are pregnant because the results are amazing and noticeable in no time. You can also learn about the breathing techniques because these special breathing patterns will make sure that your body will be provided with the necessary amount of oxygen. The unborn baby will receive the necessary oxygen supply. You may also learn about the meditation techniques because they can help you to get rid of the neuroses, conflicts and fears. They will also increase your awareness in an incredible manner and you will be able to connect to your unborn baby.
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Yoga Central - Full Boat Pose

This is the latest article in our yoga central series and today we will be looking at a pose known as full boat pose or Paripurna Navasana. We will look at how to properly carry out the pose, the benefits you can get from it and anything that you need to consider before beginning. Please read the entire article before trying the pose.

How to Carry Out the Pose

We have put together instructions on how to carry out the pose correctly however there are also a number of modifications that can be done to make the pose easier as well as deeper. These modifications will be found lower in the article.

1. Start this pose sitting on the floor with your legs stretched out straight in front of you. Place your hands on the floor just behind your hips with the fingers facing forward. Strengthen the arms by pressing the hands into the floor and remember to ensure your back is straight. Now lift through your sternum and lean back slightly ensuring your back does not round. Sit on the sit bones and tailbone and continue to lengthen your front torso.

2. Now exhale and bend the knees. You should then lift the feet of the floor until your thighs are at about a 45 degree angle with the floor. Now slowly straighten your legs until your toes are just above the level of your eyes. If this is not possible keep your legs bent and bring the shins parallel with the floor.

3. Stretch your arms out in front of you so your hands are alongside your legs and your arms are parallel with each other. You should spread the shoulder blades across your back and reach through the fingers. This might be difficult for you to do so you can leave your hands on the floor or if possible hold on to the back of your thighs.

4. You should continue to focus on your breathing ensuring that the out breath is the same length as the in breath. At the same time you should ensure your stomach is firm but not hard. Press the top of the thigh bones towards the floor to stabilise the pose. Lower the chin slightly towards the chest to lift the base of the skull away from the neck.

5. You should initially hold this pose for around 10-20 seconds and gradually increase until you can hold it for 1 minute. Exhale and release the legs then inhale and sit up straight.

Tips and Precautions

If you are new to this pose then you can do some practise on a chair at any time. You will need to sit on the edge of a chair with your knees at right angles. You should hold on to the sides of the chair and lean forward slightly. Ensure your arms are firm and lift the bottom of the chair a small amount while lifting your heels off the floor.

It can also be difficult to straighten the legs and so you can use a strap for this. Loop the strap around your feet and while leaning back hold the strap and straighten the legs pressing the feet against the strap. Wrap the strap around your hands to create a feeling of traction rather than pulling on the strap.

This pose may not be ideal for everyone and if you are suffering from asthma, diarrhoea, headache, heart problems, insomnia and low blood pressure you should avoid this pose. In addition if you are currently menstruating or are pregnant then this pose should not be carried out. In you have a neck injury then you should practise the pose near a wall and when you lean back rest your head on the wall.

Benefits and Focus

The main focus for this pose is to help to stimulate the thyroid gland. In addition it can help to strengthen the abdomen, hip flexors and spine. As well as stimulating the thyroid this pose will also help to stimulate the kidneys, prostate gland and intestines and improve digestion. People who suffer from stress may also get benefits from this pose.
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Yoga – The Centuries Old Science

Though the avant-garde world’s amulet with bloom and weight has rendered yoga about an agnate to added bloom affliction ameliorative practices, but the absolute Yoga-the actual science of the art of Yoga is still buried in mystery. Most bodies accede it to be annihilation than some assortment of postures, which already mastered, would accord them brief their adapted weight or bloom In actuality yoga is abundant added than some postures (Asana). It is a accomplished academy of anticipation , a airy cipher of life.It initiates , trains and evolves its practitioners for a airy activity style. Most of us who accept some scattering of compassionate about the concepts of yoga and its multi-dimensional aspects booty yoga as the de toxin, a analysis which purifies the body, apperception and soul, all ancillary by side. No yogi should anytime booty up yoga aloof to fit in the new jeans. An admit has to understand, at atomic some of it, the argumentation and acumen abaft the actual aesthetics of yoga. One charge apprehend the actuality that clashing added bloom affliction arrangement yoga attempts to absolve the anatomy and apperception from within. It aims at antibacterial the anatomy and mind, concrete abstention comes as a by artefact here. The actual agent and the acceptation of chat yoga appearance the absolute argumentation and purpose of the system, the chat Yoga comes from the Sanskrit basis yuj acceptation TO UNITE. Any conduct or adjustment that unites one with the Supreme is alleged YOGA, and according to the SANKHYA PHILOSOPHY, YOGA agency break (disunion, viyoga) of spirit from matter. That’s what yoga is all about -the beverage of accessory actual from bigger ones. Your concrete abundance will be adequate already the grosser elements are bargain from your spirit, apperception and body. Yoga is a arrangement of analytic conduct by which we can acuminate and enhance the intellect, chargeless the apperception from the caliginosity of illusions and fantasy. The abstruse of yoga is inwardness, self-scrutiny and close cleansing. The Yoga writers acquaint the concepts of the hidden and the benumbed apperception as free accustomed tendencies, and additionally as assuming how, by the action of yoga, the efforts of the acquainted apperception can boss over the hidden and the unconscious.
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How to Choose a Yoga Mat - The Best Way

Searching for the perfect yoga mat? You will find that while there are a wide variety of mats available on the market, the "best" mat is the one that meets your needs.

The first thing you will want to look for in a yoga mat is a size that works best for you. Most yoga mats average around 24 inches wide, but lengths can vary widely. Lengths of 68" and 72" are fairly common, but yoga mats can typically range from 60" to 75" in length. A shorter mat may be appropriate for kids, people with smaller frames, or in situations where portability is important. A longer mat will allow you to perform a wider variety of poses more easily. For instance, it is nicer to have your face on a mat than on the floor in a Chattaranga pose!

Second, consider the material. You will want a material that provides good thickness, traction, and holds up over time. Cheap yoga mats are often made out of PVC and plastic materials. These are the least environmentally-friendly option, and you may not want to be in close contact with the compounds and fumes they release while practicing yoga. A newer development is the introduction of TPE (Thermal Plastic Elastomer) yoga mats. These are a good tradeoff between cost and eco-consciousness. While they are still relatively inexpensive, they are made from a more environmentally-friendly material that is recyclable. Some of the best yoga mats are made from natural latex and organic natural latex. The latter is usually the most eco-friendly yoga mat choice. Manufacturers of natural latex mats often have environmental offset programs to counter the manufacturing and shipping impact of the mat.

Third, consider the cost. While cost is imporant, don't get fooled by the false economy of cheap low-quality mats. A single high-quality yoga mat that provides you with productive practice sessions is worth way more than a slightly cheaper mat. Furthermore, a high-quality mat will last longer than a series of cheaper mats that need to be replaced on a regular basis. In short, buy the best yoga mat that you can afford.
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Fundmental Yoga Postures, Exercises, And Poses

If you are planning to take up yoga then you should arm yourself with as much knowledge as you can as it is a very wide subject. It is good to know about what the most common yoga postures and poses are and the effects that these can have on the body. It is never a bad idea to start yoga; it is finding a place in more peoples lives every year and for good reasons. Your overall health can be dramatically enhanced.

Yoga is a very extensive discipline; there are quite literally hundreds of postures and exercises to choose from, different people prefer different postures. Before you begin it is important to take advice from somebody with experience. It can be better for you if you are just beginning to attend yoga classes as opposed to doing the exercises alone; you will then get a deeper understanding.

This article will mention a variety of poses that have been compiled to give you an overall feel for yoga. They are perhaps not the most widely used but they do cover all levels and body systems.

1. Kundalini Grind: This is an essential yoga exercise, all practitioners should use it. It can develop the digestive and elimination systems and will strengthen your spine and back muscles. It is good to use this posture at the beginning of a workout.

2. Kundalini Yoga Rowing: This exercise will free up your hips and can help to develop a greater amount of flexibility in the hamstrings. It can also be beneficial for your shoulders and abs.

3. Pashimothan Asana (Yoga Forward Bend): This is an essential part of any yoga workout. It is the most important of all Hatha yoga postures. It involves stretching the complete back and spine. It is thought that it may produce spontaneous healing and increases the chances of having a long healthy life.

4. Stretch Posture for Abs: Many people want to develop the strength in their abs. This is why this pose is popular with both novices and experts. It will also work on the Navel Chakra and give you greater willpower and energy.

5. Dhanur Asana (Bow Pose): This posture can improve your respiratory system, digestive system, spine, shoulder, legs, and your complete flexibility. It is known to keep people looking young and feeling full of energy.

6. Plough Pose: Though this is not necessarily an easy posture it can be modified so that beginners can also use it. It will put pressure on specific points of the body and can massage areas associated with certain chakras. It is known to be good for the human sexual system as it works on the Sex Chakra. It also has an effect on the digestive system and Navel Chakra as well as the Anahata Chakra and the heart.

7. Kundalini Archer Pose: This posture will help to expand many aspects of your body and health. It will provide you with a greater energy level, better lung capacity, and enhanced nervous system. When undertaking this pose you need to breathe strongly and deeply.

These are just a brief introduction to the type of yoga postures that you could practice. You need to discuss with a professional what exactly you want to achieve so that you get the best results and outcome.

Article Source: http://www.wefindyouarticles.com

Yoga Diet - A Vegan Treat

The most common topic is about having food and craving for it, but only very few are aware of the fact that the actual intense fat burner is none other than yoga diet. The diet is healthy containing fruits, whole grains and vegetables, that in no way supports gaining weight. As a result, it concentrates more on vegetarian foods and thereby excludes meat, fish and poultry. This is also viewed spiritually as being kind to animals, but it accepts dairy products such as milk, butter, eggs, yogurt and cheese as they are rich in calcium and vitamins required for the body.

Beans and legumes must be incorporated as it makes one of the best yoga diets that have protein and is a must to the body. Hence, it can be included in recipes, salads with beans and lentils, and various other bean dishes such as bean soups, sandwich spreads and lentil salads. Vegetables are the main nutrition in yoga diet and include an array of vegetable dishes comprising of organic and seasonal vegetable dishes such as curries, stews, appetizers, casseroles and entrees. Similarly, water is highly recommended such that a person takes nearly 2 liters of water everyday, and hence incorporating vegetable or fruit juices, coconut milk, rice milk, smoothies, nut milks, soy milks and other beverages that are healthy is preferred.

Foods that can be enjoyed are the best foods of yoga diet and this includes easy digesting foods such as vegetables, fruits, honey, beans, juices, butter and milk. Foods to avoid as per the yoga diet refer to the foods that cannot be easily digested or it can also be considered to be a heavily processed food. This includes several packaged foods made with white sugar or white flour, and also the food that is available in cans and in other packages that are filled with preservatives proclaiming longer shelf life. Another very essential aspect of it is eating the food slowly so that it is digested properly. Simply, pushing down the food into the mouth and swallowing is not the right way of eating, instead enjoying every mouthful and chewing it properly helps in proper digestion and yoga diet.

The primary concern is fitness and health and it is observed that following yoga diet has enormous health benefits than clinging to pills or strict diet regimens. These may be quick fixes, but are certainly temporary solutions, besides resulting in later on side-effects. It keeps a person health and refreshed and this health benefits keeps the mind focused, besides reducing high stress levels and high blood pressure. Yoga diet does not refer to any dry and tasteless food; instead it offers a delectable vegan treat. Mind should be focused as well as open to change so that an individual achieves success and also maintains it permanently.

Yoga diet brings gradual changes and expects to eat many small snacks and meals, instead of having big meals twice a day as it increases the metabolism. Drinking water before each meal will naturally limit the eating course and drinking 8 glasses of water is a must. Exercise is essential for increasing the fitness levels and peace, besides increasing the self-esteem levels as well as improving the mood. Walking even for ten minutes and taking the stairs whenever possible is ideal to support the yoga diet.
Article Source: http://www.happy-living-articles.com

Yoga for Relaxation, Relax with Yoga Techniques

Do you need to relax? Most of people are having a busy life and do not have time to relax. In their busy life, people are on the run moment they get up from bed to the time they retire for the day. How can you be relax when whole day is spent in meeting the deadlines, pushing schedules, getting to office, getting back to home and not having enough time for having proper meals? In addition, there can be different types of stress due to financial problems, health problems in family, lack of emotional support or work pressures.

Though the development of yoga cannot be pinned to an exact year, the discovery of the Indus seals, which show figures in the classic yoga asana (posture) of lotus pose, trace yoga back to at least 3000 BCE. At this time the Vedas were being written, which today’s yoga postures are derived from. These gave birth to Vedic yoga, which accommodated the ancient Indians fixation on ritual and sacrifice. We see evidence of the importance of sacrifice in the yogic corpse posture. Lying as though we were placed in a coffin, this represents the ultimate sacrifice-that of death

Relaxation is actually a necessary part of every yoga routine. The body needs to relax after practicing the exercises, especially the more demanding ones. Certain asanas require an unusual positioning of the body, which can result in discomfort if the relaxation stage is omitted.

As humans, we are programmed to withstand a certain level of pressure. Pressure is part of all work. Many people, me included, are motivated by the desire to meet goals and achieve more and, respond well to a certain amount of pressure. However too “much pressure” at work has the opposite effect. This state leads you to experience distress and in some cases severe physical pain and emotional burnout

Have you ever experienced moments when you are totally at peace, calm and content with your life? Many of the students I teach yoga say that practicing yoga has given them “inner strength”, a “sense of balance and inner peace” which helps to enhance the quality of their personal relationships, stay focused at work and learn how to cope with stressful situations in a calm and more positive way.

Before listing some of my own personal benefits, those that have been clear to me through experience, let us just consider meditation itself. Meditation is a powerful spiritual practice, and the regular act of meditation can help a great deal in one’s spiritual development. Through the practice of meditation, the person meditating is able to focus on each part of his or her body, something I learnt in my first yoga lesson. Simply by doing this, a great level of relaxation can be achieved, which has the potential in providing many health benefits.
Article Source: http://www.urarticles.com

Some Simple Tantric Yoga Exercises to Improve the General Health and Sexual Abilities

A healthy pelvic area is of great importance for the general well-being. The same is true about a healthy respiratory tract and breathing apparatus.
Here are presented three poses and three breathing exercises that have the following effects when done together in a series:

-They stimulate the physiological functions of the genital and anal area.
-They correct muscle weakness and anatomical problems of the anal and genital region.
-They increase the sexual drive and abilities.
-They produce a stimulating response that spreads upwards along the spine and revitalizes the whole body.
-They stimulate the physiological functions of the respiratory tract and help against infections in the airways.
-The exercises are very good to start each day with, or to do before going to bed in the night.

POSE 1

Stand on your hands and knees upon the floor.
Kneel backward so that your buttocks go backward and down towards your feet and stretch your arms foreword.
Breathe out and then take a deep breathe in, filling your lungs totally with air. Hold your breath with the air inside.
Squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting. Relax your anal muscles completely again.
Repeat the squeezing and relaxing 3-5 times, but not so long that you go out of oxygen in your body.
Empty your lungs. Rise up on your hands and knees again. Relax a while in this position and then you can repeat the exercise if you wish.

POSE 2

Lie on your back upon a carpet on the floor with your arms along your sides and relax.
Breathe out.
Then breathe inn deeply while relaxing all the muscles you do not need for the breathing.
Then breathe out. When breathing out, squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting.
After having breathed out, relax your anal muscles again.
Repeat the breathing in and breathing out while squeezing 3-8 times, but not some much that you get exhausted.
Then relax again.

POSE 3

Lie on your back upon a carpet on the floor.
Breathe out completely.
Swing your arms in an arch over your head and down to the floor over your head so that your whole body is stretched from top to toe. When swinging your arms, take a deep breath filling your lungs totally with air.
Hold your breath with the air inside.
Squeeze your anal muscles and pull your anal opening as deeply inward as you can. However do not strain when squeezing. This exercise shall not be exhausting. Relax your anal muscles completely again.
Repeat the squeezing and relaxing 3-5 times.
Swing your arms back at the same time as you empty your lungs. Relax some while and then you can repeat the exercise if you wish.

BREATHING EXERCISE 1

Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and the back straight.
Empty your lungs completely.
Breath in counting to 4. When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other:
Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles. And then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders.
Hold your breath counting to 16.
Then breath out counting to 8. When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around your shoulders.

BREATHING EXERCISE 2

Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and your back straight. Take 10 rapid deep breathes in and out after another, but not so rapid that you get strained or breath incompletely.
When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles. And then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders.
When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around your shoulders.
After the last in-breath , hold your breath with your lungs filled counting to 10.
Then breath out.

BREATHING EXERCISE 3

Sit upon a pillow on the floor with your legs crossed and your back straight.
Empty your lungs completely.
Close your left nostril with the fingers of one of your hands. Breath in through your right nostril counting to 4.
When breathing in, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves out. Then fill further by using your chest muscles and then complete the filling by using the muscles around your shoulders.
Hold your breath counting to 16.
Then close your right nostril with your fingers.
Then breath out through your left nostril counting to 8.
When breathing out, try to do it in three stages that proceed smoothly into each other: Use first your diaphragm so that your stomach moves in. Then empty further by using your chest muscles. And then complete emptying by using the muscles around your shoulders. When you have breathed out, repeat the exercise, but this time begin by closing your right nostril first.

RELAXING AT THE END OF THE SERIES

When the series is done, then lie down upon a carpet on the floor and relax for 2-5 minutes. This relaxation will increase the effects of the exercises and make you recover if the exercises have made you tired.
Concentrate upon relaxing your legs first, then your lover body, then your upper body, then your arms and shoulders, and at last your head and face. When the whole body is relaxed, try not to think about anything, and relax your whole body even further. Then lie some time in this relaxed state without thinking about anything.
Article Source: http://www.purearticle.com

Yoga's Twist and Turns Benefits Scoliosis Patients

Yoga is a science that has been practiced for thousand of years. It is an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice with its roots in India going back 5,000 years. Yoga, is derived from the Sanskrit root word “Yujir Yogey”, meaning yoke or union. It includes the physical postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation that has many physical benefits such as improved posture, increased flexibility, and strength.
By combining the yoga postures with breathing awareness, one can develop symmetrical alignment of the body. This is accomplished by stretching muscles that have tightened and that have become weak from asymmetrical imbalance. With good structural balance, the body will create a more effortless posture using the bone structure, rather than overworking the muscles to hold itself up.
Yoga is highly therapeutic. Some of the ailments that can be relieved through the practice of Yoga include hyper-acidity, allergies, Alzheimer's disease, anemia, anger, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, bronchitis, cancer, carpal tunnel syndrome, common cold, constipation, and even depression.
Other ailments that can be relieved by yoga practice inclue:
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• Eye problems
• Facial wrinkles
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Headaches
• Heartburn
• Hemorrhoids
• Hepatitis
• High blood pressure
• Hypertension
• Weak immune system
• Impotence
• Menopause
• Menstrual cramps
• Migraines
• Multiple sclerosis
• Various skin problems

Yoga practitioners also claim that the practice of the ancient exercise system is a good therapy for scoliosis. Through yoga, one can find that balance point which allows the scoliosis curve to coexist with gravity and activates the body's natural plumb line. The result for most people is better posture and less pain.
Scoliosis is a medical term taken from a Greek word meaning 'curvature.' This disease often develops during childhood and causes the spine to curve laterally (to the side) to the left or right. The spine's normal curves occur at the cervical (neck), thoracic (chest), and lumbar regions (lower back). These natural curves position the head over the pelvis and work as shock absorbers to distribute mechanical stress during movement.
Scoliosis only affects a small percentage of the population, or approximately two percent of the entire U.S. population. However, it has been found that scoliosis may be hereditary. If someone in the family has scoliosis, the likelihood of an incidence of another case in another family member is approximately 20 percent. The traditional medical management of scoliosis is determined by the severity of the curvature, skeletal maturity, and likelihood of progression. The conventional options are initially through observation, followed by bracing and surgery, and these procedures cost a lot.
Although many exercises help in reducing the scoliosis-related problems, yoga immediately helps improve the problem of uneven curves and is now considered to be the best scoliosis exercise. Yoga postures are helpful for providing relief from scoliosis because they enable us to stretch our body and help regain the normal shape of the spine. The most effective yoga exercises for the treatment of scoliosis-related problems include the Crocodile Twist, the Supine Knee Chest Twist, the Passive Back Arch and the One Leg Up-One Leg Out Posture. These exercises are very helpful in raising one’s lowered shoulder and reducing the back pain.
Psychologically, doing yoga is very empowering. It gives hope that we can do something to improve our condition and our quality of living. Yoga is a way of life. Choosing to do yoga for scoliosis therapy requires commitment and inner awareness. With scoliosis, it is important not expect perfection but instead accept oneself, and find one's own optimal alignment and center. As there is beauty in the straight alignment of a palm tree, there is also beauty of an oak tree, or human being, with it’s many twists and turns.
Article Source: http://www.articles4sites.com