Exploring Philosphy, Vedas and Sitar with Ram Vakkalanka

Deep within every soul is a passion that is so deep it is elevated by others who share the same.  For me Music and Yoga are my two biggest passions.  I love to learn, to share, and also share with others the teachers who inspire me.  I was so grateful to meet this incredible teacher early this year, Ram Vakkalanka.  Ram teaches Philosophy (Sutras, Vedas), Sanskrit, Nada Yoga, Kirtan, Mantra, and Sitar.  He is a wealth of authentic knowledge, and expert who imparts the original meaning of ancient texts in his classes. 

Ram Vakkalanka

This morning after my yoga practice, I decided to pick up the Sitar again, and play.  While the sounds I created were most likely only enchanting for my ears, the music reminded me how grateful I am to have met this brilliant teacher.  Ram teaches for numerous Yoga Centers and Teacher trainings worldwide.  He is a brilliant addition to any Yoga TTC, or Yoga Center, for those who are eager to grow deeper in their knowledge of yoga in its most purest form.  While his talent in music is incredible, and his awareness of Yoga Sutras, Sanskrit, Vedas is vast, his method of teaching is so simple that everyone is eager to learn more. 




 For those interested in studying Yoga Sutras, Sansrkit, Vedas, Kirtan, Mantra, Mudras, Sitar...etc.  please visit Ram's website (http://www.aksharayoga.com/) to arrange for this brilliant teacher to teach at your center, in your teacher training or private classes.  He is truly a gem to the global yoga community.  Thanks so much Ram, hopefully we can coordinate schedules and resume some lessons.

Kids Yoga Teacher Training in Ireland

Though I left Ireland last month, I realized I never posted about the incredible Kids Yoga Teacher Training.  For me Kids Yoga is one of my most favorite things to teach.  Kids are the most pure teachers of the 8 Limbs (Yamas, Niyamas, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, Dhyana, Samdhi).  I generally teach kids yoga with story, play and of course music.  While I have so much respect and gratitude to the amazing Kids Yoga Schools/Yoga Schools that I have had the honor to teach and share with like (Yogi Beans, Karma Kids, Little Flower, Bent on Learning, Bamboomoves, HMS, HBK, and the few youth shelters that I have taught at in Canada and India), I was so grateful to share this new RIYA YOGA KIDS program to inspire people different ways to bring Harmony to Kids through Yoga.

This incredible group of 7 yogis explored Partner Yoga, Yoga sequencing, Behavior Modification, Yoga Music, Yoga Stories, Yoga Adventures, Pranayama, Meditation, Yoga Games, and much more all geared to teaching kids yoga.  It was so fun to watch and share, and witness all their unique gifts and talents.  When we teach kids we truly should be able to be a kids too.  Have fun, smile, and consider everyone.  The group had so much amazing energy, and shared such beautiful ideas and insight when we discussed methods to work with kids.  Some of the group already works with kids, and this just provided different tools whether it was original music, my Kids book, or the manual that offered a variety of different ways to create a discipline that is both structured and fun.

Caravan of Camels (Partner Camel Pose/Ustrasana)

Bee Breathing - Pranayama

While I have had extensive experience with Children with Special needs, and this program works with all kids regardless of special need.  Kids do yoga naturally, and if you teach a child anything with a song they will remember it for their whole life, hence why we all remember our "ABC's.





That being said, I always recommend students to study further with other trainings and keep on learning.  Sonia Sumar is the lady I always refer students to, who want to specialize in Kids with Special Needs, as her experience and course are an incredible asset to the Kids Yoga Teachers tool box.  Radiant Child offers more brilliant music and tools, Yogi Beans, Karma Kids, Little Flower are all based in NYC, but provide awesome resources for those who want to share yoga to kids.

Special thanks to the incredible group of yogis who joined in the fun and adventures of Riya Yoga Kids Training.  It was such a delight to work with all of you.  More photos are on my facebook page.  Namaste ~

Back Pack Pose

Building Bridges (Golden Gate Bridge in Limerick) - Bridge Pose

The Naked Truth of Yoga Teacher Training in Ireland and Crystals

The most beautiful aspect of doing a small group Yoga Teacher Training is to cater to the individual.  I am profoundly grateful that these incredible Goddesses are receptive to the practice of yoga and all that I teach them.  They are embracing the tears, the sore muscles, the self-development with grace and strength.  

I shared with the ladies my experience with Naked Yoga, and recommended that they all experience it. 

I suggested on their own in the morning while doing Sun Salutations they should release inhibitions and practice or meditate au naturel.   While they all thought it was a little shocking, I was so happy to find out they did it the very next day.  They all came away with a beautiful new love for their body.  Women need to celebrate their body, and since these ladies had explored Chakras they had a deeper understanding of why energy may remain in certain areas of the body.  When we celebrate our own unique body, we become one with our feminine energy and sexuality which should be embraced rather than repressed.  

at 2 Mile Gate with the Swans Blessings

While we spent most mornings doing our asana at 2 Mile Gate in County Clare in front of the water, having a family of swans come and bless us each day, we also had the chance to take a trip to the local “milk market” in Limerick.  At the Milk Market we met the amazing Mary Henry who has a Crystal Stand with her wonderful husband Aaron.  Mary happens to be my Reiki master teacher and Crystal Healing Teacher.  It was so great to see her and of course it was amazing to see her crystal stand.

The students were invited to pick a crystal or a few, and like always, the crystals actually picked them.  The metaphysical properties of the crystals they chose had a magical way of finding their way into their hearts.

At Mary's Crystal Stand at the Milk Market in Limerick, Ireland

With Mary & her hubby Aaron at their Crystal Stand in the Milk Market

Later that afternoon we did crystal meditation as we explored Yoga Sutra 1:39 YATHABHIMATA DYHANAD VA (Or by meditating on anything one chooses that is evalevating). 

यथाभिमतध्यानाद्वा ॥३९॥
yathā-abhimata-dhyānād-vā ||39||
- Or through contemplation (dhyana) of love. ||39||  

The meditation was very powerful, revealing and healing.  Tears were shed, awareness was found, healing happened, and transformation.  One student the owner of the beautiful Sun and Moon Yoga and Healing Centre, Mia shared with the group how her experience with the personal meditation of naked yoga and how during the crystal meditation she realized she would like to teach Naked Yoga at the studio.  WOW!  This is the second time after I suggested naked yoga to a teacher trainee, they have gone on to be inspired to share with others.  The first was Joseph, and now Mia!  Mia realized how she had quite a journey with her body, and coming to appreciate her body after many years of not doing that is a full circle healing for her, and she is excited to share.

I am so grateful to be part of all the magnificent transformation happening with these incredible Goddesses.  These ladies are growing to be incredible Yogis with every breath.

Day 8 - Meditation - Guided Meditation - Universal Connection

Welcome to Day 8 of our meditation Challenge.  While people all over the world are joining in this Sangha, and I am grateful for this shared experience, some of you have found that you fall asleep during meditation.  First of all, no judgement it happens to the best of us.  Sometimes if you go into the meditation practice with the intent to "relax" or feel "rested" it may be inevitable that you fall asleep. Avoid practicing your meditation in bed, your mind already associates your bed with sleep, so it is ideal to have some sort of special space where you will practice your meditation.  Today's helpful tip is another guided meditation with binaural beats that allow the listener to go into theta state (please use stereo headphones).  This meditation is to increase your awareness of Universal Connection.

1. Set your intention/offering for your meditation practice
2. Sit up tall, close your eyes, take deep breaths and listen to the guided meditation. 
 

To listen to the guided meditation please click the link below:

Universal Connection Guided Meditation Link

How to Use Mantra to Meditate - Day 1 of 30 Day Challenge

Day #1 – 30 Day Meditation Challenge – SoHam Mantra Meditation

Thank you for joining in this 30 Day Meditation Challenge! The benefits are endless and the practice should be embraced without judgement or expectation.  See if you can do your meditation at the same time each day.  While the goal is to sit in silence for 15 minutes a day, some of us may need a few options to get to the goal.  Where ever you are in the world, you can join us.  Today’s option is “So Hum” (सो ऽहम् ⁾ Mantra Meditation.  If we recite this Mantra 108 times it will result in approximately 15-17 minutes, feel free to do the mantra for 5 minutes and progress to focus on the breath in silence. 

Begin in a comfortable seated position, perhaps on a cushion, with a straight back.  If it is difficult to elongate the spine, another option is to sit up against the wall.  Relax your facial muscles, softly close your eyes, and set your intention/offering for this special time.  To do this meditation exercise, we Inhale the silent sound of “Sooooo” and exhale the silent sound of “Huuuuum”.  As we inhale, imagine the silent sound of “Soooo” traveling up the center line of the body to the top of the head, and as we exhale, send the breath back down to the base of the spine.  Let the breath be natural, without pause in between.  Some say it is loosely translated as “I am That” or “I am You, You are Me”. 

In Vedic Philosophy this is a way in which we unite or identify with the Universe.  Various theories point back to our birth as emerging with the infant cry “Kohaam Koohaam” which means “who am I”, so the Universe responds back “SoHam” meaning you are the same as I.  When we practice this Mantra we allow ourselves to unite with Universe/God Consciousness.  Sometimes after saying "So Ham" the mantra is reversed to say "Hamsa" which is like saying "I am the Swan",  The Swan in this case represents Atman (soul).  The Swan is the vehicle for Goddess Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge and Wisdom). 

The swan glides on water without getting its feathers wet (knowledge and supreme truth), and soars above the water into the sky (rising above earthly ties). In Vedic theory the swan possesses the beautiful ability to separate milk from water which stands for wisdom and discrimination (viveka), therefore knowledge (vidya).  This beautiful practice of meditation is ultimately to free us, to allow us to gain knowledge, wisdom, and rise above the earthly ties or mental modifications. 

Wishing you Joy & Peace during your 30 days of meditation.  May these 30 days inspire you to embrace this as part of your daily practice. ~ Om Shanti

How a NY State Supreme Court Judge became a Yoga Teacher

This is a long overdue post about an incredible Yoga student of mine, Honorable Doris Gonzales and her journey to become a Yoga Teacher.  When I first met her, I had no idea what her profession was, she was a blank canvas for me.  I was only interested in facilitating an experience for her to grow in her yoga practice masterpiece.  She also has an awesome daughter who would take my Kids Yoga Class, (Milta).

Doris was receptive to the practice of yoga, and dedicated to come to class.  She would cheerfully enter the studio with beautifully straightened hair, fully aware that after class she would leave with a curly mess on her head.  This would happen 4 times a week, some days she would do 2 of my classes, one of which was often joyfully referred to as "the Torture class aka ZOGALATIES" because it combined high intensity abdominal work, some mild yelling on my part, and a whole lot of sweat.  At one point she was quick to say my Level 2 Yoga class was a Level 4, which it probably was, but it was lots of FUN, the collective consciousness we would all generate was amazing, and she like everyone else always came back.  For many people the studio in NYC was like a little family.

While I knew she loved to practice, I had no idea she wanted to enroll in Yoga Teacher Training.  While I am always open to suggest other options of Yoga TT, especially in NYC there is an array of excellent teachers who I respect, she had practiced with me, and was determined to study with me.

She contacted me while I was away teaching in India, telling me about wanting to do Yoga Teacher Training. Since there was interest from 6 other people, I thought perhaps to offer an intimate Yoga Teacher Training for some former students.

I come to NYC August 2012, and the 5 other students have conflicts.  Doris was so dedicated and determined, so I gave my first ever one to one Yoga Teacher Training. 

I asked her what her goal is in Teacher Training and she said she wants to heal & also get back into shape.  Primarily she wanted to help herself, so ultimately she could help others.  She was already sharing some lunch time Yoga with some folks at the courthouse, but she wanted to officially be able to say she was a Yoga Teacher, and share with others.

We held the course in her home which began with a beautiful Puja ceremony.   Each day was dedicated to the correlated deity, and each morning we would begin with warm water and lemon.  We progressed to 7am Asana, then had regular Ayurveda meals and fresh juice that I prepared and tea for her dosha.  She was eager to learn about the Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita with questions and enthusiasm to hand in assignments.  The Philosophy of Yoga was something she was so eager to understand for her own self development, which is always wonderful!  The way I teach Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita is more in a way to relate to our own healing so we can ultimately be more compassionate to otherwise challenging memories or situations, and thus make us better teachers.

The Teacher training like most brought mind-body-spirit challenges, which I expected.  No Mud, No lotus.  It was designed to detoxify, and it did.  Some tears, sweat, pounds were all shed.

I feel like we both learned through the entire experience.  We would sprinkle in some more Yoga Asana classes, Subtle Body, Class Sequencing, Guided Meditation, and occasionally her incredible Spinx Cat, Cameo would join us.

We had an amazing guest teacher (professional nurse and PT Miguel) for anatomy, field trips to Boston and Upstate NYC to explore meditation and the subtle body.  Along with being a respected judge, an amazing Single mom, Yoga Teacher, she is also a Reiki Master and Crystal Healer.  So we were surrounded by some amazing crystals (both hers and mine).

By the 3rd week Doris was almost about to quit.  I will admit our days were long, and sometimes challenging, and she had a house and beautiful daughter to tend to after our full days.  But she was destermined, and by the end of the Training, Doris lost 13Lbs, had a huge smile and pep in her step that was not their before, she was able to do some asana work that she did not do before, and she was so excited to share with others.  The best part was she realized how the changes in her, attracted more positive change in her life.  People had noticed the transformation and she was loving it!

I had meant to write this post for many months, and had hoped to have a photo of Doris in some awesome Yoga Pose on her Judges Bench, or in Warrior Pose with her gavel in Hand, because that would be incredibly awesome and to show that this Yoga practice is for anyone!  I am still waiting for the picture Doris!  But I had an email from someone who is taking class from Doris, telling me what a wonderful Yoga Teacher she has become (not surprised) and that I should be very proud (I am).  Congratulations Doris on your completion and certification as a Yoga Teacher, I am ever grateful to have been part of your journey. 

For those of you who are curious about Yoga Teacher Training, it will happen when the time is right.  While it is best to have at least practiced Yoga for 3-6 months before embarking on a Teacher Training,  it does not matter what your job, your gender, your size, your ability in asana, only that you are present, humble and receptive to the awesome practice.  Also, you do not have to quit your day job or dress like a hippie, Doris is still busting balls on her judges bench.  The practice itself has a magical way of transforming the individual. 

For more information on upcoming Yoga Teacher Trainings please visit my website: www.zogayoga.com

Some Awesome Dates to Consider:
July 1-26th in Ireland
November 1-26th - Kerala, India

The Zen of Naked Yoga

For those of you who have followed my blog you know I love to challenge myself and be open to new experiences with my yoga practice, and I twice ventured into the world of Naked Yoga, and found it to be one of the most pure and positive experiences ever.  It was a chance for me to truly surrender to my breath, be vulnerable, embrace Aparigraha (non-hoarding/possesiveness), and fall in love with all the curves and splendor that is my body during asana.  The class I took was at the Pheonix Temple with Isis in NYC, it was co-ed, and she invited me back to play live music for the second class.  While the second class I allowed me to hide my vulnerability behind my guitar, many insecurities were shed from both experiences.  The biggest realization is the concept of beauty or flaw is an illusion, and the thought "OMG I am naked" becomes a natural reminder of how we all came to this journey.

Now in India many of the Naga Baba's (most revered Sadhu's who are nude and renounced the things of this world) have emerged from their deep meditation in the mountains to partake in Kumbh Mela. In India, many of the most revered Sadhu's practice naked as a way to release all attachments, while in the West we are flooded with over-priced yoga apparel, and air-brushed images that often times create a negative sense of self worth and unrealistic goal focused purely on the physical.  With yoga being a practice of unity of mind-body-spirit and self-realization, it would be natural for yogis to embrace detachment, but sometimes we lose sight of this quest in our fashion infused asana classes.  Because of my personal experience, I always recommend my yoga students and teacher trainees to embark on a naked yoga class, or even practice on their own.  We forget how much emphasis we place on things of this world (shirt riding up, pants slipping down, matching clothes etc.), and many of these things can potentially be distraction from the oneness of the practice. 

One of my beloved students, Joseph, did just that, experienced the purity of the practice when done nude, and will be teaching a naked yoga workshop at LeMale Yoga in NYC (Feb 20, 27th, and March 6th 7:45pm -8:55pm).  While this studio provides an amazing playground of exploration inspired workshops, Joseph is guaranteed to have people feel comfortable in their own skin while maintaining a challenging, safe, and powerful vinyasa class with attention to alignment. 

Another paradox of the world of Yoga is, in India yoga was predominantly a practice for men/warriors, and today in other parts of the world we often see classes predominantly with women.  I have heard many of my male students admit that this can be intimidating at times.  The 3 week workshop that Joseph is teaching at LeMale Yoga is for men only (sorry ladies), but promises to be a powerful experience.

For more information on this amazing workshop visit:
http://www.lemaleyoga.com/workshops.html

To read about my experience with naked Yoga please visit:
http://zogayoga.blogspot.ca/2009/03/room-is-like-any-yoga-studio-in-nyc.html
http://zogayoga.blogspot.ca/2009/06/naked-yoga-reprise.html

Happy New Year 2013

Happy New Year, welcoming the year of the snake, 2013, the age of aquarius.  I cannot enter this new year without gratitude for 2012.  The previous year brought me so many adventures all over India, Canada, USA (LA, NYC) to share Yoga Teacher Training as a guest teacher or a host, to inspire & be inspired.  I have so much gratitude to the students, and co-teachers who shared in these amazing experiences.  The previous year also brought me challenges for which I am grateful for the opportunity to grow and learn.

We made it passed the Maayan Apocolypse and have entered a new chapter.  While most gyms and yoga studios are busy promoting packages for a healthy start to the new year, individuals are setting goals to trim the waistline, and people all over and hopeful for a better year, commitment to the plan is key.  Whether your goal is better health, better relationships, better job, better travel, better spiritual evolution, all goals require a purpose, a plan, and a positive outlook.  While I would recommend daily asana, pranayama, and a healthy diet which includes more vegetables & fruits and less sugar and processed or GMO products, no adjustments should ever be approached with the mental process of deprivation, but instead JOY.  In fact we should enjoy the process and focus on the benefits.  Regardless of your resolution this new year, enjoy the process and have an attitude of gratitude.

TOP 10 Ways to Begin an AMAZING 2013:

1. With a heart of Gratitude: Be thankful as often as possible, to people, to your faith, to your blessings and lessons/challenges.
2. With a Dream Board: Creating a Picture Board with dreams and aspirations to help motivate you to maintain focus on making dreams come true.
3. Clean your space: Make your space sacred and recognize the direct impact our surroundings have on our mental and emotional body, so get rid of the clutter.
4. Clean your Heart: Sometimes you cannot get rid of the clutter of people that surround you, but you can adjust the amount of attention you give to negative people/situations, focus on the roses in your life rather than thorns.  Ignore the haters and wish them well.
5. With Healthy Dietary Intake: While some may view dieting as a means of deprivation, instead commit to increasing water intake to maintain hydration, and increasing healthy items at meal times.  Eventually the glowing skin, healthy energy and weight loss will inspire a lifestyle change that is commited to healthy dietary habits.
6. With a Quiet Mind: Quiet the Noise, commit to at least 10 minutes a day away from noise, either in prayer or meditation.  No gadgets, no requirements, except stillness and deep breaths.
7. With Affirmation: Our word/mantra have a direct effect on our lives, so consciously choose your words.
8. Give: Spend some time in Karma Yoga, or Volunteering.  Give back to the community, to an individual, donate clothes, donate time.....give and only then does the Universe give back.
9. With movement:  While stillness is wonderful, our body is meant to move.  Choose to walk, ride a bike, dance, run, or challenge yourself in your asana practice, take a group fitness class, pole dance class, zumba class....whatever inspires you to move and get your heart rate up.  Also move your mind by enjoying music, reading, and taking courses/classes like Yoga Teacher Training, Reiki, Meditation etc., to evolve your being.
10. LOVE: Love yourself, celebrate yourself, and Love the world around you.  The grumpy people might be annoyed by your zest for life, but soon enough your LOVE may soften their heart.

Wishing everyone an amazing 2013 with love, peace, joy, adventure, prosperity, health, and many opportunities to give thanks.  Thank you all for sharing in the journey. Namaste

You Can Heal Your Life

Most people who practice yoga can attest to the healing benefits they have experienced with yoga.  People have healed both their body and their mind with yoga.  One of the biggest aspects of this healing is the breath.  Taking the time to connect with the breath, allow the body to flow with deep breaths, and quiet all the clutter/memories in the subconscious mind (chitta).

What I have noticed from true devotees of the practice is the ability to live with compassion, to take responsibility for their own lives, the ability to forgive themselves and others, and most importantly the ability to live with JOY.  When I say "true devotees", I mean the folks who look beyond asana, who look beyond labels and accolades, and really shine with radiant light & compassion in their eyes that light in their eyes which only comes from embracing the 8 Limbed practice of yoga. 

What is the most repeated concept in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali?  Cheerfulness and JOY.  Some would say, how can we have joy when others are so mean, or when we had to endure this trauma, or when this always happens to me?  Sadly some Yoga Enthusiasts may say only when I can perfect that asana, or when I can make it past the Ashtanga Primary Series......Very interesting mantras.

What about changing those mantras to positive affirmations like.... kind and loving people are always attracted to me, I am strong enough to forgive, understand and be grateful for all experiences, and amazing things always happen to me.  What about evolving past perfecting an asana, and embracing the chance to be present with your breath without judgement or expectation, knowing full well that nothing is ever perfect?  What about being fine with making it through Surya Namaskar A & B devoid of the expectation of anything more than connecting to your breath?

From my experience, teaching, studies and observations I have learned we are truly creatures of habit both on and off the yoga mat.  Patterns, unconscious and conscious that have everything to do with the patterns established in our childhood, belief systems.  It is easy to blame someone else, feel apathy, or say it is karma.  While things may well be our destiny or past life karma, our choice and our evolution comes from how we react, how we recognize the things we allow & enable, and how we establish our self worth and most importantly how we forgive and let go.  This comes from an  unbiased analysis of relationship patterns established from our formative years.

The Vedas began hinting at Dharma, Karma, then Yoga Sutras outlined the "handbook" to conscious living towards enlightenment, Jesus enlightened people in the Bible on power of faith & forgiveness, The Buddah asked for us to see how all is one, Transcendental Meditation elaborated or power of silence, and modern western gurus have elaborated with studies of NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), therapy, hypnosis etc.

Today we have people like Tony Robbins, Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Deepak Chopra, Prema Chodron, and many more encouraging people to change their belief systems, or Yoga Teachers elaborating on the Bhagavad Gita & Yoga Sutras to help people take control of their life.  I am one of those teachers who emphasizes the importance of the Yoga Sutras so Yoga can be embraced as a path to enlightenment along with the benefit of a slimmer waist. 

Generally the message of positive affirmations is agreed upon by both ancient Eastern and Modern Western Gurus.  This notion that we create our journey, that everything is our creation, or a reflection of us.  This idea that what makes us mad is actually not the other person, our job, our achievements or lack their of but a deeper pattern behavior or vrittis (misconceptions).  Recognizing that every aspect of this Universe, every relationship is truly a reflection of our deepest belief systems that we control.

योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः ॥२॥
yogaś-citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ ||2||
When you are in a state of yoga, all misconceptions (vrittis) that can exist in the mutable aspect of human beings (chitta) disappear. ||2||

But like the phrase goes, when you point one finger - 3 are pointing back.  I recognized that I myself still need to apply some of the precepts of this practice into my own life and yoga practice.  Hence why Yoga is a practice and why in life we repeat lessons, until they are learned.  The Modern Western Guru who I referred to, to help many students worldwide is Louise Hay.  Her story, and her outline of affirmations to change our body, relationships and environment with affirmation, breathe and conscious living, is nothing short of brilliant.  While I love the Holy Bible, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and the Bhagavad Gita...I think Louise writes an easy to read, easy to relate text, and modern version to self healing & enlightenment.  

If you are a Yoga Teacher or student this is a book you should invest in for your self healing and to understand behavior patterns to help others.  If you are a person who struggles in relationships, with finances, with health, or anything.....this is the book for you.  If you are a person who thinks you know best, and yet you struggle with physical illness or job issues.....then this is especially the book for you.  Life is too short to waste time with negative energy, so keep your thoughts, environment and heart shinning with love ~ Namaste

Saucha - Niyama of Cleanliness on and off the Mat

As yoga practitioners we observe the eight limb practice and embrace the First Niyama of Saucha (Purity or cleanliness).  In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali 2:40, Saucha is defined as "purification results in the abandonment of physicality and the cessation of physical contact with external things".

शौचात् स्वाङ्गजुगुप्सा परैरसंसर्गः ॥४०॥

śaucāt svāṅga-jugupsā parairasaṁsargaḥ ||2: 40||

The entire eight limb practice of yoga is a path of purification.  Naturally by practicing Asana, Kriya (Kappalabhati, Neti, Nauli, Basti,  etc), Pranayama, Yogic Diet the yoga aspirant can evolve in the path of purification.  This Niyama is about observing the practice of purification in body, mind and environment.  When our body becomes clean we will notice improvements in digestion, energy, skin, emotions, overall health and of course our asana practice.  Normally a person who desires a purified body will be very conscious in food choices, knowing that food intake has a direct relation to our overall health.  When we have a Purified mind it leads to a cheerful, optimistic and patient disposition.  The person who embraces this Niyama approaches life with a compassionate heart and always understands that love or a call for love is found in human behavior and therefore necessary in all things.  For those who study subtle body, we know that most physical ailments are a reflection of mental and emotional tendencies which lead to dietary and exercise habits.  Ultimately, purity of body and mind will ultimately allow the yoga aspirant to prepare for meditation.

Long ago yogis would practice in caves with cow dung on walls, ash on their bodies and practice various kriyas for cleansing.  Also keeping an altar with the elements in offering (water, fire, earth, metal, and ether).  Patanjali highlighted how the aspect of giving offering to the altar, practicing aarathi, are part of purification as well, symbolizing how pure we offer ourselves to the Supreme.

While modern day yoga studios may not want to practice all traditional aspects, or even understand many traditional aspects of the yoga practice, we can still practice the Niyama of Saucha.  As a Teacher perhaps arriving early and making sure the space is swept, perhaps lighting incense/candles, burning sage, gridding the room with crystals, setting the vibration of OM to begin and conclude class, possibly doing some meditation, or even embracing chanting after class.  Be the example you wish to witness in your students.

As teachers it is wonderful for us to practice a clean diet, and clean hygiene.  What about the yoga mats?  Some studios have mats to borrow or rent, which means different peoples sweat and possibly fungus can be on the mat.  Therefore, proper mat cleaning is necessary.

1. Hosing it down with water, soft cloth/sponge and light dish soap
2. Filling a spray bottle with some water, tea tree oil (anti bacterial/anti fungal) and even some lavender essential oil for a light fragrant smell.  Just spray and wipe.  This is cost effective and students can all do this after class to promote saucha.
3. Josha wipes, similar to baby wipes with sweet aromatic scents.  These can be sold in yoga studios and seem to be growing in popularity.

The best Saucha to practice is a pure and clean heart.

Explore Energy with Yoga

With the Zoga Yoga teacher training coming to a close yoga aspirants are left energized and vulnerable.  What to do with all this information.  Will we maintain the same energy? Many yoga students are commonly using the term energy.  Students dive into awareness of Koshas (5 energy bodies or ananmaya - food, pranamaya - life force, manomaya - mind, vijnamaya- mind, and anandamaya - bliss), the Shariras (3 energy bodies/sheaths of Shtula/physical body, Sukshma/subtle body, Karana/causal body) auric energy fields, Purusha (creative shiva shakti consciousness), Prakriti (energy of nature, shakti energy to assess in ayurveda), Kleshas (5 obstacles of Avidya/ignorance, Asmita/ego reliance, Raga/attachment, Dvesha/aversion, Avhinevesha/fear of death), energy of their body, energy of others, energy of crystals, vibrational energy of OM, and with time and practice students become more aware of energy.  Energy is physics and basically breaks down as a force traveling through space or distance.

With kinetic energy we have seen Einstein break it down to: E=Mc2
(the amount of energy is directly proportioned to the mass of body)
E = the rest mass energy
M = the mass
C = the speed of light

The system of Bioenergetics studies energy in the body where the chemical energy of (fats & carbohydrates) metabolises to form chemical waste and heat.

People who have deep meditation practice, really live the 8 Limbs of yoga, and also those who have used psycadelic drugs have experienced the visual dimensions of atoms, molecules, colors, shapes, and particle physics that makes up this world, that show us we and everything in this Universe are all particles in vibration.  But what is this energy they talk about in yoga?  The energy of the subtle body, the energy of prana?  Well Prana being life force energy, when regulated or restained (yama) forms pranayama or regulation of breath.  This breath gives life force energy.

When we send it to all the Chakras (subtle energy vortex's), we get a situation where our Chakras are balanced or stimulated.  This can happen in asana practice, with food, sound vibration, fragrance, mantra.  Again, another chance for the E=Mc2 theory to be put into practice.

A few years ago a group of scientists in Japan put a dying man in a controlled environment.  The man and everything in the room was weighed.  Every possible variable of moisture or oxygen was accounted for.  When he died 28grams were not accounted for.  This is the ounce of life force energy that keeps us alive.  The energy that exists beyond our back pain, or broken heart.  This is the energy of life that evolves in our yoga practice.

This is the Life Force Energy that the Yogis spoke about in the Vedas.  The energy that when taped into we can calm the vrittis (our emotional tendencies or psycho physical propensities), heal our samskaras (the imprints left on the subconscious mind from experience), and find nirodha or nirvana (a place where all suffering ceases). 

When we explore Yoga Sutra 1:2 Chitta Vritti Nirodaha which illuminates the ultimate goal of the practice as "cessation of the mind stuff"

योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः ॥२॥

yogaś-citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ ||2||

When you are in a state of yoga, all misconceptions (vrittis) 

that can exist in the mutable aspect of human beings (chitta) disappear. ||2||

Next time we step on our yoga mat, see if we can explore our body and feel that energy as it moves through the veins, through the organs, through the bones and through our breath.  Perhaps in meditation, listen to the breath, count the breath until all thoughts unite and only breath exists.  Then when escaping into the dreamless sleep of Savasana, can we calm the mind stuff?  or are we thinking of recipes and laundry?  If so, no judgement just keep practicing.  But if we can calm the mind, still the body doing a scan of 61 points, and without sleeping, witness the stillness of energy, we become a witness to life force.  This is when transformation happens, rebirth, and evolution with the awareness of the power of energy that exists within.

I am so grateful to have been part of this exchange of energy and transformational experience.  Maintain gratitude and allow love and light to be your guide on this journey of energy.  Namaste

Life is Sweet

Life is sweet when we make it sweet.  When we make conscious choices and active steps to better health and happiness, our world as we know it changes.  In Ayurveda, we explore the importance of dietary habits, eating foods that explore the 6 tastes of sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent.  While we benefit from eating sweet because of its connection to the elements of Water & Earth which help to nourish our blood plasma, muscles, bone marrow, and reproductive fluids, the suggested Ayurveda sweets include milk, fruits, grains, legumes, and veggies but never any mention to refined sugar.

When we suggest sweet, it does not mean sugar, especially refined sugar.  Our body will convert starches into sugar (glucose), our fruits are converted into sugar (fructose), and this acts as fuel for the body.  We have to be careful how we consume our foods as well because certain combinations can cause excess gas or an acidic feeling in the tummy.  With the growing rate of diabetes in North America we have to be mindful of the Sugar consumption that we allow into our dietary habits.  The reality is excess sugar (or the common sugar filled diet of an average American) can lead to many problems in the body including: Diabetes, Obesity, Aching Limbs, Hypertension, Depression, Acne, Skin irritation, headaches, stiff arteries, fatigue, and hyper acidity of the blood which can promote many different diseases including cancer.  According to brain scans Sugar is as addictive as cocaine.

Some Interesting Facts:

• 1n 1822, in 5 days, the average American consumed 45Grams of Sugar (amount in todays 12oz soda)
• TODAY, in 5 days, the average American consumes 75Grams of Sugar (amount in 17, 12oz cans of soda)
• In one year, 130 LBS of Sugar is consumed
• The average American who consumes a approximately 3LBS of Sugar in 1 Week = 3,550LBS in a lifetime = 1,767,900 skittles candies

A nice we to begin the day is warm cup of water with lemon, this "breaks the fast", alkalizes the tummy, supress the appetite so we don't overeat, and gets us ready to have food.  The latest Zoga Yoga Teacher Training has ayurveda cooking classes and our breakfast is a typical South Indian Favorite called Uppama (Cream of wheat, onions, mustard seeds, raisins, cashews), this was my childhood favorite.  An afternoon smoothie of Banana, Strawberry, Coconut Almond Milk, Cardomom for digestion and some Cacao.  Ayurveda Teas of Fennel & Cinamon, Mixed Spices, Black Tea all designed to detoxify, help metabolism and help digestion.  Often times legumes can add to the gas feeling, so adding a bay leaf, or lemon on top, or ginger can help with the digestion process.   While asana is important in Yoga, the Sister Science of Ayurveda will allow the Yoga Aspirant to better understand their own body, and in future help others and thus allow us to apply the principals of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras into our own life in a healthy, tasty, cheerful way. ~ Om Shanti

References for more information on Sugar in our Diet:
www.onlinenursingprograms.com
www.businessinsider.com/chart-american-sugar-consumption
www.livestrong.com
www.sugarstacks.com

Ashtanga Yogis explore Anatomy & Ayurveda

Welcome to the new group of 200Hr Certified Ashtanga Yogi's in 2012.  It was such an honor to share in the journey of these wonderful people in Los Angeles.  While the original plan was to be with this group from day one, I was only with them towards the last few weeks.  Big thanks to my friends Deon & Deona that invited me to stay in their beautiful home & borrow their car for my commute to Beverly Hills.  Deon (a phenomenal drummer I have been friends with since meeting at Berklee College of Music) is actually on a juice fast, after self educating himself with films like "Food Matters",  "Food Inc.", "Fresh" and many more.....in his own words, he is not anti meat, he is anti meat industry.  In just 9 days, Deon lost 14lbs, feels so energized, and notices the changes in his body....that is right, just with an adjustment to Diet!

The irony of me having to drive in LA traffic daily was amazing for me, as I have enjoyed being a NYC pedestrian/subway commuter for very long, and I have been in multiple car accidents.  This was yet another opportunity for me to face my fears, and in such a beautiful setting.....Los Angeles you are a gorgeous place!

Back to the Ashtanga Yogis....Thank you Caroline for inviting me to be a guest teacher in your Training!  This amazing group of people from all over got together in Beverly Hills for daily Ashtanga Training.  By the time I met them their bodies were ripe with purification, their spirits were open to self exploration, and their minds were eager to learn more.  I was so happy to share with them Anatomy, Chakras, Ayurveda and Yogic Diet.  The funny thing I realize from every experience of teaching is that the student teaches the teacher so much.  This particular group was very receptive, ready with questions and optimistic about sharing this new light with others. 

The responsibility of a Yoga Teacher is one that I feel should always be addressed in any training.  We are not doctors, we are not therapists, we facilitate a compassionate experience for a student to explore their mind, body & spirit through this amazing practice of Yoga.  Without attachment to their reaction (praise or otherwise), we must always be a witness to their experience.  Thank you all for allowing me to share your journey!  I wish you so much Love & Light as you share this ancient practice with others. 

"In the light of dispassion, or non-attachment, the aspirant attains freedom from his desires, whims, ambitions, and anxieties." ~ SWAMI RAMA

Kalaripayattu - Indian Martial Arts

During my visit to India, I was fortunate to experience the beautiful ancient art of Kalaripayattu.  In my daddy's hometown of Kudduthuruthy, I walked to the Kalari Payattu center to watch, learn, and discover this incredible art form.  This is the oldest known form of martial arts that is said to have derived from ancient Vedic Times, and has its base in Kerala, India.  Tracing back over 3,000 years the name translates into "field of battle". The style if martial art is said to have inspired Kung Fu and most every other style of battle.

Students are required to find the raw power from majestic animals like the lion, tiger, elephant, wild boar, snake and crocodile, in the art of Kalari payattu.  The entrance of every Kalari establishment faces the East, the South West area is the "poothara", is a 7 their platform meant to house the guardian deity, and be an place of worship and prayer before every lesson.  Students touch the ground, the poothara, and the Guru's feet to symbolize respect and submission to their Guru.  The Teacher is also known as the Asan guides the students to develop the 4 powers of the practice.

· Meikaruthu: power of the body.
· Manakaruthu: power of the mind.
· Ankakaruthu: power to combat.
· Ayudhakaruthu: power to wield weapons.

The four stages of learning are meipayattu or maithari (body), kolthari (sticks), angathari (metal weapons), verumkai (without weapon or empty hand).  Students learn how to wield over 13 different types of weaponry.  Though the movements require committed practice and determination, I quickly realized I need more time to study this art, and I was teaching and studying yoga at the time, so it was not going to happen.  It was amazing to watch how this discipline is still being taught my my fathers local hometown.  

Vedic Astrology

On the wave of the recent Super Moon, I am reminded of a really fun experience I had in India with an incredible Vedic Astrologer.  For those who missed the super moon, and or are unaware, it is when the moon is the closest to the Earth's orbit.  This recent Super moon was the biggest in over 20 years, and appears 30% brighter than normal.  The Super moon was in the sign of Scorpio, and the sun was in Taurus, and said to destroy negative patterns to make room for rebirth into the positive.  It is a time for transformation. Traditionally, yogis would adjust their yoga practice according to the sun and moon.  Even today, Ashtanga yogis maintain a practice that faces the sun, and that abstains from practicing on moon days.  Since ancient times Vedic Sadhus would monitor the patterns of the moon, the stars and planets to determine what the future would hold.  The reason why this science cannot be argued with is because for centuries many of these sages could not be proven wrong and prophetic tales have been handed down through the Vedas.  Even today in India, massive undertakings like marriages, building projects, and business ventures consult the planets before any action is taken, due to the accuracy of this ancient practice.

For some, the tradition of reading the stars and planets have been handed down.  According to Vedic Astrology, the planets, moons, stars are all in a specific alignment and help to create a framework of an individuals life path.  The difference between Vedic astrology and western astrology is that it actually focuses more on an individual's moon sign.  The chart analyzes the alignment of planets, moons, stars all at the time of an individuals birth.

For me, I had my chart analyzed by an amazing individual who is famous in India and throughout Europe for reading peoples individual astrological chart.  He enlightened me with his time and wisdom.  While for many years I knew I was born under the Sun Sign of Aquarius, I did not have any awareness of my moon sign, or rising sign, or how the planets lined up at the time of my birth, until now.  It was fascinating to learn how each planet has a specific affect on our journey.  The information in my chart was the most accurate review of my life of up to date. It was amazing to see how things in the past line up with my chart, and I am looking forward to the amazing things in my future.  Thank you Jai Krishna for your time and wisdom.  If anyone is ever interested in finding out the alignment of planets, stars and the moon at the time of their birth, this is the astrologer to go to.  

Lesson 1: There is no "I" in Yoga

While there were so many highlights to my adventures in India that both deepened my yoga practice and also left me with tremendous gratitude, there is a lot that I have yet to share.  Some experiences that I will keep sacred and refrain from sharing, and some over time will find there way to the blog.  Many people would think I am so lucky to have spent so much time in India, learning with incredible gurus, teaching yoga, volunteering with the Missionaries of Charity, and much more.  While my experience was nothing short of amazing, my expedition did come with some challenges.  Tremendous thanks to my family and friends for taking such good care of me for 4 months, and thank you to blog fans who followed along my journey.  Prior to leaving for my trip, I did have a health condition that only worsened with my travels, leaving me in serious need of medical attention a few times.  Of course I kept this situation to myself while doing Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training, and put my trust in God, and at one point I thought perhaps this trip is so magnificent because this is the end of my journey.  It was not, I am still here, back in North America, slowly adjusting to the time zone difference.

One thing I noticed was the energy of stress that was in the air when I came to the beautiful Toronto Airport. Perhaps that is why Yoga is beneficial for people in this part of the world.  While driving home my father drove in a special lane that is designated to people with two or more passengers, as a way to promote car pooling for a better environment.  The other lanes were filled with back to back vehicles driven by people so anxious to get home.  While India would have the orchestral sounds of honking horns, random chickens and cows that cross streets, motorcycles with entire families riding helmet less, and the occasional giant trucks filled with bales of hay and 9 to 10 people sitting on top,  the air of stress is not as common in India as it is in the Western part of the world.

So it makes me wonder, why and how can this part of the world benefit from the ancient wisdom in India beyond just wearing trendy yoga clothes, mala beads, and flowing through Yoga postures?  How can we learn as a society that it is more than the external clothing.  The practice itself is so deep and creates an essence in an individual, with inspires a Sangha, that only later colors a nation.

In India you can see slums that have a fourth wall as a mansion, you can see extreme poverty with joy filled smiles that no drug could recreate, you can be lost and have every person offer to help direct you to the right place, and yet in North America we hide and avoid the site of poverty, we complain when we have regular meals and a roof over our head, and we rely on our GPS before we dare to strike a conversation with another person.  With our technology of iPod, iPhones, iPads we have the ability to connect with those who we choose to connect with and fail to realize how we are in fact isolating ourselves further, perhaps that is why these products begin with "I".

So after months in India, the thing that I understand more than anything is that there is no "I" in Yoga.  Yoga is a Sanskrit word that translates into union.  So when we search for ways to brand this ancient practice with roots in Vedic History that both myself, and no 200Hr or 500Hr Yogi can begin to understand, when we deny the vedic roots of yoga to alleviate any unnecessary guilt or insecurity we may have related to our own religious beliefs, when we attempt to justify a diet that is both harmful to our bodies, animals, and our environment, when we cling to defining ourselves with updated overpriced Yoga apparel, when we insist on boasting about our asana.....perhaps we should ask how much Ego is inspiring our practice.

I met so many brilliant Gurus who do not rely social media to promote themselves or their teaching.  Many who have devoted their lives to the practice of Yoga, and shine with a light of peace in their eyes that I hardly see in North America.  They have never even heard of Facebook or a Blog, and some requested to not be mentioned because they believe the true practice finds its way to the aspirant without marketing.

Does this mean that we should live in a cave, practice in a dothi, never market our Teacher Trainings and classes, and study Vedanta extensively?  No, because imitation has no authenticity, and in this part of the world social media can be used to share light if we choose.  Instead, perhaps we should just embrace the concept of being a humble student who aims to share love, light and peace by living it......and challenge ourselves to slowly let go of attachments to our past, to our feelings, to our physical practice, and ultimately to the material definitions that we all will one day realize is an illusion, especially for us who practice yoga. ~ Namaste

Photos: Ambria in Kerala Palace and Kangra Fort.