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	<title>Yoga and Fitness</title>
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		<title>Yoga for Stress Relief</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/yoga-for-stress-relief/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/yoga-for-stress-relief/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:47:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yogahub.com/blog/yoga-for-stress-relief/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[These days, “stress” is my middle name.
While I don’t consider myself a control freak, I do like to have at least some control in my life. Lately, however, life has been somewhat chaotic. We’ve had a few health challenges with Mumsie, as well as visits to our “Revolving Door” bed &#38; breakfast from two sets [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>While I don’t consider myself a control freak, I do like to have at least <span style="font-style: italic;">some</span> control in my life. Lately, however, life has been somewhat chaotic. We’ve had a few health challenges with Mumsie, as well as visits to our “<span style="font-style: italic;">Revolving Door</span>” bed &amp; breakfast from two sets of friends from out of town. (Between you and me, I’m seriously thinking of hanging a “<span style="font-style: italic;">No vacancy</span>” sign on our front lawn!)<a id="more-1049"></a></p>
<p>On top of playing chauffeur-cum-tourist guide to our friends (none of whom feel confident enough to drive on the “<span style="font-style: italic;">wrong</span>” side of the road &#8211; sigh…), there’s Thanksgiving dinner at our house to contend with and Christmas to prepare for. (Yes, I know it’s still relatively early but we have gifts to buy and send to my sister and her family overseas.) Oh, and in between that, I’m also trying to get some work done. As for finding time for my yoga, uh-uh…best of luck….</p>
<p>But the other day, while I was browsing at a book store with Mumsie and our visitors, I came across a “<span style="font-style: italic;">Stress Relief Yoga for beginners</span>” DVD. <span style="font-style: italic;">“Like I’ll be able to find an hour in my day to do that</span>,” I remember thinking to myself. On closer look, however, I saw that it offered a complete workout in only 20 minutes. So, on impulse, I bought it.</p>
<p>The DVD sat there for a few days until I decided that I just <span style="font-style: italic;">had</span> to carve out 20 minutes in my day for myself. So that evening, I locked myself away in my bedroom and put on the DVD (this must be the one and only time I’ve ever appreciated having a TV in our bedroom &#8211; although I’ll never admit that to my hubby, of course). I lay down my mat and pressed “<span style="font-style: italic;">play</span>.”</p>
<p>My first impression was that I really liked the voice of the instructor, <a title="Yoga for Stress Relief" href="http://www.yogahub.com/Videos/Yoga-for-Stress-Relief.html" onclick="return TrackClick('http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yogahub.com%2FVideos%2FYoga-for-Stress-Relief.html','Yoga+for+Stress+Relief')">Suzanne Deason</a>. With a mellow and soothing tone, she took me through some gentle stretching to relieve tension (oh my neck!), and then continued with some postures to get the blood flowing and increase circulation. This was followed by some techniques to relax the mind and body.</p>
<p>The 20 minutes flew by and, before I knew it, it was over. I felt <span style="font-style: italic;">wonderful</span> &#8211; calm, serene, and at peace with the world.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Never Rush A Neti Pot Cleansing!</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/never-rush-a-neti-pot-cleansing/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/never-rush-a-neti-pot-cleansing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:19:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[neti pot]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yogahub.com/blog/never-rush-a-neti-pot-cleansing/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So I’ve been cleansing with my Neti Pot for a few weeks now and everything’s been going well.
Until now&#8230;
The other night I was really tired. It had been a long day filled with frustration, so all I wanted to do was go to bed and have a good night’s rest. I went through my usual [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>So I’ve been cleansing with my Neti Pot for a few weeks now and everything’s been going well.</p>
<p>Until now…</p>
<p>The other night I was really tired. It had been a long day filled with frustration, so all I wanted to do was go to bed and have a good night’s rest. I went through my usual nightly ritual and then all but fell into bed, exhausted.</p>
<p>That’s when I remembered my Neti Pot. Oh, so much for my “<span style="font-style: italic;">nightly ritual</span>” &#8211; I’d forgotten a very important part of it. I lay there for the next five minutes, debating whether it was worth getting up and doing the cleansing or just forgetting about it and going to sleep.</p>
<p>Of course, after debating on that for a while (I can always give myself a great argument), I realized I couldn’t sleep anyway, so I thought I might as well get up and commune with Neti.</p>
<p>I went through my now usual routine &#8211; I measured out the usual dose, poured in the warm water, lent over the sink, tilted my head, poured the liquid into one nostril… and made a complete mess, somehow managing to pour the liquid <span style="font-style: italic;">up</span> my nose, resulting in an intense pain shooting through my head, which in turn caused me to gag and choke. “<span style="font-style: italic;">Not pleasant</span>” would be a major understatement! I then proceeded to blow my nose for the next 20 minutes until my head exploded… or at least it felt like it had exploded.</p>
<p>Once I was through blowing my head off, I sulkily cleaned up the mess and changed into another sleep shirt before getting into bed, all the while grumbling to myself and cursing my Neti Pot.</p>
<p>At least I’ve learned one very important lesson &#8211; the next time I’m tired and just want an early night, I should just go to bed and not worry about missing one night with Neti!</p>
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		<title>Combat Yoga</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/combat-yoga/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/combat-yoga/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:29:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Physical Aspect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yoga Practitioners]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yogahub.com/blog/combat-yoga/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I read a newspaper article today. This alone is surprising as I have an acute aversion to current events - I find their reality disruptive to mine. But this morning, as I sat waiting for my coffee to percolate, the newspaper was the only thing within reach. With careful ambivalence, I paged lazily through it [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I read a newspaper article today. This alone is surprising as I have an acute aversion to current events &#8211; I find their reality disruptive to mine. But this morning, as I sat waiting for my coffee to percolate, the newspaper was the only thing within reach. With careful ambivalence, I paged lazily through it (looking mostly at the ads).</p>
<p>An article with the word “<em>yoga</em>” in it soon caught my eye, however, and recklessly I began reading.</p>
<p>It turns out that yoga is starting to be used rather extensively as a form of psychological therapy. The article outlined a new, unorthodox, and potentially ill-conceived plan by the <a title="A Stress Relieved on Duty" href="http://www.yogahub.com/blog/yoga-camp-for-para-military-force/" onclick="return TrackClick('http%3A%2F%2Fwww.yogahub.com%2Fblog%2Fyoga-camp-for-para-military-force%2F','A+Stress+Relieved+on+Duty')">US Army to include yoga training for their soldiers </a>on the front lines in an effort to combat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).</p>
<p>This radical movement was inspired by Posing Warriors, a particularly successful yoga program originally intended to help Vietnam veterans suffering from PTSD. Since its inception, the program has grown to include veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan as well.</p>
<p>So, with the increasing incidence of soldier suicides, the army has turned to yoga. And already arrangements are being made with a yoga instructor in Iraq.</p>
<p>Now I get to editorialize.</p>
<p>As good an idea as this may seem to be, it sounds downright silly to me. Whomever is in charge has missed the point of yoga. One of its first and most important tenets is a principle of no harm. It seems to me that, as a practice, yoga is conceptually and psychologically at odds with the soldier mentality &#8211; so much so as to make the two mutually exclusive. Simply put, the violence required of the military profession does not accommodate the successful practice of yoga. Practiced this way, it will become a meaningless waste of time and serve only to confuse rather than enlighten.</p>
<p>Well, that’s my two cents. And I’ve since remembered why I rabidly avoid the newspaper.</p>
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		<title>Wrist Safety in Yoga Poses</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/wrist-safety-in-yoga-poses/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/wrist-safety-in-yoga-poses/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:14:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relaxation Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relieving Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Staying Fit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wrist and joint safety]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://yoga.idealmma.com/?p=572</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is very very important. When doing poses where your hands and wrists are supporting much of your weight, spread your fingers as wide as you can. Activate every single fingertip, pressing them firmly into the ground, as if you were gripping it. Taking some of the weight out of your wrists by distributing the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This is very very important. When doing poses where your hands and wrists are supporting much of your weight, spread your fingers as wide as you can. Activate every single fingertip, pressing them firmly into the ground, as if you were gripping it. Taking some of the weight out of your wrists by distributing the weight to your fingers is a good practice to get into since many yoga poses support a lot of weight on your wrists. Once you get the hang of it, you will notice a huge difference.<br />
<br />
<p><a href="http://yoga.idealmma.com/wrist-safety-in-yoga-poses/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p><br />
<br />
You might also consider wrist supports. Either way is fine, just remember that unless you want to risk injury, safety is important!</p>
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		<title>Yoga for Neck Aches</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/yoga-for-neck-aches/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/yoga-for-neck-aches/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:27:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[neck pain]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.yogahub.com/blog/yoga-for-neck-aches/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have a pain in the neck. No, no, you didn’t read that right – I said I have a pain in the neck, not I am a pain in the neck!
I’m pretty sure it stems from my bad posture when I’m sitting at my desk. Oh sure, when I first sit down, I make [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I have a pain in the neck. No, no, you didn’t read that right – I said I <em>have</em> a pain in the neck, not I <em>am</em> a pain in the neck!</p>
<p>I’m pretty sure it stems from my bad posture when I’m sitting at my desk. Oh sure, when I first sit down, I make an effort to keep my spine straight and my shoulders back. However, once I dig in and start focusing on my work, I forget about everything else. I slouch in my chair with my shoulders hunched while I type away, oblivious to everything except getting my work done.</p>
<p><em>Sound familiar?</em></p>
<p>Well, recently my neck has really been bothering me &#8211; what used to be a temporary crick has become a permanent one. At first, I thought it was my pillow, so I tried using another one…and another…and another…. Nope, not the pillow.</p>
<p>So at my last yoga class, I decided to mention my problem to my instructor &#8211; and I was surprised when many of my fellow participants said they had a similar problem. Sure enough, my yoga instructor said it was probably due to poor posture, although there could also be many other underlying factors that were causing the pain. And &#8211; of course &#8211; she said there were some <em>asanas</em> that would help to alleviate the pressure and stress on the neck area to relieve the pain.</p>
<p>She proceeded to take us through these <em>asanas</em>, as well as some breathing exercises. I was a little wary about trying them because my neck was so sore, but my instructor reminded me to do only what was comfortable and not push it, as I could injure my neck even more. Since I’d mentioned that I spend most of my time at my desk working on the computer, she also took us through pain-relieving <em>asanas</em> for the neck that we could do while sitting in a chair.</p>
<p>I have to say I didn’t notice much of a difference when I got home &#8211; the crick was still there. But that night I slept wonderfully and woke up feeling refreshed. I went about my usual business and didn’t even notice that the crick in my neck had gone until I sat down at my desk. <em>That’s</em> when I noticed that the pain was gone &#8211; <em><strong>yes!</strong></em></p>
<p>I’d love to say that my posture has improved but I find that I’m still slouching and hunching my shoulders. The difference now, though, is that I take a few minutes every couple of hours to go through the yoga poses and breathing exercises.</p>
<p><em>Now if I could only remember not to slouch….</em></p>
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		<title>Proper Form To Avoid Back Injury</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/proper-form-to-avoid-back-injury/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/proper-form-to-avoid-back-injury/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:47:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Back Pain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Physical Aspect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Staying Fit]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://yoga.idealmma.com/?p=570</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Keeping your back safe from injury is important. Maintaining a healthy spine is paramount not only for proper yoga poses but also for overall general health! Check out this video on proper spinal health.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Keeping your back safe from injury is important. Maintaining a healthy spine is paramount not only for proper yoga poses but also for overall general health! Check out this video on proper spinal health.</p>
<p><a href="http://yoga.idealmma.com/proper-form-to-avoid-back-injury/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Origins And Concepts Of The 3 Different Branches of Yoga</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/origins-and-concepts-of-the-3-different-branches-of-yoga/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/origins-and-concepts-of-the-3-different-branches-of-yoga/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:36:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Yoga and Fitness</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Energy Channels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sanskrit Writings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://cmszoom.com/yoga/2008/11/origins-and-concepts-of-the-3-different-branches-of-yoga/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[History of Hatha Yoga The history of hatha yoga goes back in the fifteenth century India when Yogi Swatmarama, a sage during those times, introduced it as a form of &#8220;a stairway to the heights&#8221; of Raja Yoga which is the preparatory stage of physical purification that makes the body fit for the practice of [...]]]></description>
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<h3>History of Hatha Yoga</h3>
<p>The history of hatha yoga goes back in the fifteenth century India when Yogi Swatmarama, a sage during those times, introduced it as a form of &#8220;a stairway to the heights&#8221; of Raja Yoga which is the preparatory stage of physical purification that makes the body fit for the practice of higher form of meditation. Hatha yoga is also known to be called as &#8220;hatha vidya&#8221; and the word &#8220;hatha&#8221; is a combination of the words, &#8220;ha&#8221; which means sun &#8220;tha&#8221; that means moon and they are said to refer to the prinicipal &#8220;nadis&#8221; or the energy channels of the body and must be fully operational to attain the state of &#8220;dhyana&#8221; or a certain aspect of meditation.</p>
<p>Some people may link that the origins of hatha yoga which dates back in the tenth or eleventh century with Goraknath, a yogin during those times. However, the oldest surviving text about hatha yoga is the Hatha Yoga Pradipika by yogin, Yogi Swatmarama. The text is said to be taken from old Sanskrit writings and personal yogin experiences of the yogin himself. The text relates about shatkarma, asana, pranayama, chakras, kundalini, bandhas, kriyas, shakti, nadis, and mudras among others.</p>
<h3>Concept of Hatha yoga</h3>
<p>The total concept of the traditional hatha yoga is a holistic yogic path comprising of moral disciplines, physical exercises, breath control, and meditation. The hatha yoga that is widely practiced and popular in the western countries mainly composed of the &#8220;asanas&#8221; or postures and other exercises.</p>
<p>Hatha yoga is only one of the two concepts of yoga that concentrates on the physical culture and the other yoga is the Raja yoga but both of these are referred to as Ashtanga yoga. The main difference is that the Raja yoga concentrates more on the &#8220;asanas&#8221; or postures to get the body ready for a prolonged meditation that concentrates mainly on the meditative &#8220;asana&#8221; poses. The hatha yoga on the other hand concentrates on balancing the mind and body through physical exercises, controlled breathing, and calming the mind through meditation and sheer relaxation.</p>
<p>Different positions or postures are recommended by practitioners to help lessen or avoid health problems ranging from constipation through cancer. It was said that it helps to reduce stress, pressure, and other mental worries that people today are frequently exposed to.</p>
<h3>History of Karma Yoga</h3>
<p>Karma yoga also known as Buddhi Yoga or the &#8220;discipline of action&#8221; is centered on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Sanskrit scripture of Hinduism. One of the four pillars of yoga, Karma yoga concentrates on the adherence to duty (dharma) while remaining detached from the reward. It states that one can attain Moksha (salvation) or love of God (bhakti) by performing their duties in a selfless manner for the pleasure of the Supreme. Karma Yoga is an inherent part of many derivative types of yoga, such as Natya Yoga.</p>
<h3>Concept Of Karma Yoga</h3>
<p>The word Karma is mentioned from the Sanskrit Kri, meaning &#8216;to do&#8217;, in its most basic sense karma simply means action, and yoga translates to union. Therefore, Karma yoga literally translates to the path of union through action. It is described as a way of acting, thinking and willing by which one acts in accordance with one&#8217;s duty (dharma) with no consideration of personal selfish desires, likes or dislikes, i.e. acting without being emotionally involved to the fruits of one&#8217;s deeds.</p>
<p>In the case of Arjuna in the Gita, this translated to his fighting in the oncoming war to uphold the righteous cause in accordance with his duty as a warrior; even if out of compassion, he did not want to battle with his relatives and teachers on the other side.</p>
<p>Krishna then goes on to tell how Arjuna should surrender the fruits of his actions (good or bad) to himself (as the Supreme Person or avatara) :</p>
<p>Krishna describes that allocated work done without expectations, motives, or anticipation of its outcome purifies one&#8217;s mind and slowly makes an individual fit to see the value of reason. He states that it is not necessary to remain in external solitude, or actionless, in order to practice a spiritual life, with the state of action or inaction is solely determined in the mind.</p>
<p>In order to attain the perfection of life, Krishna describes it is important to control all mental desires and tendencies to enjoy pleasures of the senses. The practice of Karma Yoga in everyday life makes an individual fit through action, meditation and devotion to sharpen his reasoning, develop intuitive power of acquiring knowledge and to transcend the mind itself.</p>
<h3>History Of Raja Yoga</h3>
<p>Raja Yoga also known as Classical Yoga or simply Yoga is one of the six orthodox (astika) schools of Hindu philosophy, being described Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras. It is also occasionally referred to as A??anga (eight-limbed) yoga because there are eight aspects to the path to which one must attend. Raja yoga is concerned primarily with the cultivation of the mind using meditation (dhyana) to further one&#8217;s acquaintance with reality and finally achieve liberation.</p>
<p>The term Raja Yoga is a retronym, introduced in the 15th century Hatha Yoga Pradipika to differentiate the school based on the Yoga Sutras from the new current of Hatha Yoga.</p>
<h3>Concept of Raja Yoga</h3>
<p>Raja-Yoga is principally concerned with the mind. The mind is traditionally perceived as the &#8216;king&#8217; of the psycho-physical structure which does its bidding (whether or not one has realized this). Because of the relationship between the mind and the body, the body must be &#8216;tamed&#8217; first through self-discipline and purified by various means (see Hatha Yoga). A good level of overall health and psychological integration must be achieved before the deeper aspects of yoga can be pursued. Humans have all sorts of addictions and temptations and these preclude the attainment of tranquil abiding (meditation). Through restraint (yama) such as celibacy, abstaining from drugs and alcohol and careful attention to one&#8217;s actions of body, speech and mind, the human being becomes well to practise meditation. This yoke that one puts upon oneself is the alternate meaning of the word yoga.</p>
<p>Patanjali&#8217;s Yoga Sutras start with the statement yogas citta-vtti-nirodha (1.2), &#8220;yoga limits the oscillations of the mind&#8221;. They proceed on to detailing the ways in which mind can create false ideations and advocate meditation on real objects, which process, it is said, will lead to a spontaneous state of quiet mind, the &#8220;Nirbija&#8221; or &#8220;seedless state&#8221;, in which there is no mental object of focus. Practices that serve to maintain for the individual the ability to check this state may be considered Raja Yoga practices. Thus Raja Yoga encompasses and differentiates itself from other forms of Yoga by encouraging the mind to avoid the sort of absorption in obsessional practice (including other traditional yogic practices) that can generate false mental objects. In this angle, Raja Yoga is &#8220;king of yogas&#8221;: all yogic practices are seen as potential tools for obtaining the seedless state, itself considered to be the first point in the quest to cleanse Karma and obtain Moksha or Nirvana. Traditionally, schools of yoga that label themselves &#8220;Raja&#8221; offer students a mix of yogic practices and (hopefully) this philosophical viewpoint.</p>
<p><em>By: <strong>Cindy Heller</strong></em></p>
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		<title>The Different Styles of Yoga</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/the-different-styles-of-yoga/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/the-different-styles-of-yoga/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:44:41 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Yoga and Fitness</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ashtanga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bikram]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hatha]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Integral]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Iyengar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jivamukti]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kripalu]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kundalini]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Many Different Types]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sanskrit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sivananda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vinyasa]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The Different Types of Yoga There are many different styles of yoga being taught and practiced today. Although all of the styles are based on the same physical postures (called Asana’s), each has a particular emphasis or path. Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of yoga that can help you decide [...]]]></description>
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<h2><strong>The Different Types of Yoga</strong></h2>
<p>There are many different styles of yoga being taught and practiced today. Although all of the styles are based on the same physical postures (called Asana’s), each has a particular emphasis or path. Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of yoga that can help you decide which style is right for you.  However, I am strongly advising that you try as many different styles, classes and teachers as possible.  It is crucial for your development, that you have a rich and varied experience of Yoga.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Hatha Yoga </strong></h3>
<p>Hatha is a very general term that can encompass many of the physical types of yoga. If a class is described as Hatha style, it is probably going to be slow-paced and gentle and provide a good introduction to the basic yoga postures.  Highly recommended as a standard experience in the basics of yoga. This is a good place to learn basic poses, relaxation techniques, and become comfortable with yoga.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Vinyasa Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Like Hatha, Vinyasa is a general term that is used to describe many different types of classes. Vinyasa, which means breath-synchronized movement, tends to be a more vigorous style based on the performance of a series of postures called Sun Salutations, in which movement is matched to the breath. A Vinyasa class will typically start with a number of Sun Salutations to warm up the body for more intense stretching that&#8217;s done at the end of class.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Ashtanga or Power Yoga </strong></h3>
<p><strong> </strong> Ashtanga, which means &#8220;eight limbs&#8221; in Sanskrit, is a fast-paced, intense style of yoga. A set series of postures are performed, always in the same order. Ashtanga Yoga is very physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next. In yoga terminology, this movement is called flow. Ashtanga is also the inspiration for what is often called Power Yoga.  If a class is described as Power Yoga, it will be based on the flowing style of Ashtanga, but not necessarily keep strictly to the set Ashtanga series of poses.</p>
<h3><strong>Iyengar Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Based on the teachings of the yogi B.K.S Iyengar, this style of practice is most concerned with bodily alignment. In yoga, the word alignment is used to describe the precise way in which your body should be positioned in each pose in order to obtain the maximum benefits and avoid injury. Iyengar Yoga usually emphasises holding poses over long periods versus moving quickly from one pose to the next (flow). Also, Iyengar practice encourages the use of props, such as yoga blankets, blocks and straps, in order to bring the body into the most perfect alignment.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Kundalini Yoga </strong></h3>
<p>Yogi Bhajan brought Kundalini Yoga to the US in 1969.  Now the practice is world wide and growing. The emphasis in Kundalini Yoga is on the breath, internal concentration, mantra (words or sounds) in conjunction with physical movement, with the purpose of freeing energy within the body and allowing it to move upwards. All asana practices make use of controlling the breath. But in Kundalini, the exploration of the effects of the breath (also called prana, meaning life force energy) on the postures is essential. Kundalini uses rapid, repetitive movements rather than poses held for a long time.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Bikram or Hot Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Pioneered by Bikram Choudhury, this style is more generally referred to as Hot Yoga. It is practiced in a 95 to 100 degree room, which allows for a loosening of tight muscles and profuse sweating, which is thought to be cleansing. The Bikram method is a set series of 26 poses, but not all hot classes make use of this series.  Anusara Yoga  Founded in 1997 by John Friend, Anusara combines a strong emphasis on physical alignment with a positive philosophy derived from Tantra. The philosophy’s premise is belief in the intrinsic goodness of all beings. Anusara classes are usually light-hearted and accessible to students of differing abilities. Poses are taught in a way that opens the heart, both physically and mentally, and props are often used.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Jivamukti Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>This style of yoga emerged from one of New York’s best-known yoga studios. Jivamukti founders David Life and Sharon Gannon take inspiration from Ashtanga yoga and emphasise chanting, meditation, and spiritual teachings. They have trained many teachers who have brought this style of yoga to studios and gyms, predominantly in the U.S. These classes are physically intense and often include some chanting.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Forrest Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, and gaining popularity around the U.S., Forrest Yoga is the method taught by Ana Forrest. The performance of vigorous asana sequences is intended to strengthen and purify the body and release pent-up emotions and pain so that healing can begin. Expect an intense workout with an emphasis on abdominal strengthening and deep breathing.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Kripalu Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>The name Kripalu is associated both with a style of hatha yoga and a yoga and wellness centre in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Both were founded by yoga guru Amrit Desai, who came to the United States from India in 1960. Kripalu is a yoga practice with a compassionate approach and emphasis on meditation, physical healing and spiritual transformation that overflows into daily life. Kripalu also focuses on looking inward and moving at your own pace.  <strong> </strong></p>
<h3><strong>Integral Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Integral yoga follows the teachings of Sri Swami Sachidananda, who came to the U.S. in the 1960s and eventually founded many Integral Yoga Institutes and the famed Yogaville Ashram in Virginia. Integral is a gentle hatha practice, and classes often also include breathing exercises, chanting, kriyas, and meditation.  <strong></strong></p>
<h3><strong>Sivananda Yoga</strong></h3>
<p>Swami Vishnu-devananda, a disciple of Swami Sivananda, founded the first Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in 1957. There are now close to 80 locations worldwide, including several ashram retreats. Sivananda yoga is based upon five principles:  1. Proper exercise (Asana, focusing on 12 poses in particular)  2. Proper breathing (Pranayama)  3. Proper relaxation (Savasana)  4. Proper diet (Vegetarian)  5. Positive thinking and meditation (Dhyana)  <em></em></p>
<p><em>By: <strong>Siri Datta</strong></em></p>
</div>
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		<title>The Ease of the Child’s Pose</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/the-ease-of-the-child%e2%80%99s-pose/</link>
		<comments>http://yoga.idealmma.com/the-ease-of-the-child%e2%80%99s-pose/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 03 Dec 2011 10:51:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Yoga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relaxation Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Management]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[In its simplicity, the Child’s pose actually does wonders for your body and your psyche. Mostly used as a resting position in yoga, it works as a great way to stretch your back out without too much strain or awkward positioning. It is named that for a reason as it reflects the position many children [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><div id="attachment_595" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 170px"><a href="http://yoga.idealmma.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/childs-pose.jpg" onclick="return TrackClick('http%3A%2F%2Fyoga.idealmma.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F04%2Fchilds-pose.jpg','childs+pose')"><img src="http://yoga.idealmma.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/childs-pose.jpg" onclick="return TrackClick('http%3A%2F%2Fyoga.idealmma.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2011%2F04%2Fchilds-pose.jpg','childs+pose')" alt="childs pose" title="childs pose" width="160" height="240" class="size-full wp-image-595" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">photo by tiffany assman</p></div>In its simplicity, the Child’s pose actually does wonders for your body and your psyche. Mostly used as a resting position in yoga, it works as a great way to stretch your back out without too much strain or awkward positioning. It is named that for a reason as it reflects the position many children take as a comfort and reminder of the fetal type position.</p>
<p>This pose is a great way to relax your entire body and soothe your mind. With positive deep breathing and and a settled mind you can melt right into the ground with this one. It is an easy one to learn and a very good way to get into the relaxation part of yoga. As part of the beginner’s training, it is essential to learn. It helps you become more in touch with your inner self and child letting you focus solely on your breathing and mental state.</p>
<p>It is also a great pose to do after a series of otherwise partially strenuous ones. Great for after the Downward Dog, it’s a good cool down like the Corpse pose that still continues to stretch the thighs, hips, and back. Just kneel down from the Downward Dog position and lay your chest on your legs and extend your arms out facing down.</p>
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		<title>Keep Fit by Doing Yoga</title>
		<link>http://yoga.idealmma.com/keep-fit-by-doing-yoga/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:10:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Yoga and Fitness</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Anti Aging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relaxation Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relieving Stress]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Yoga’s primary emphasis is upon general well-being. Although yoga has been shown to be beneficial in a variety of conditions, it is not considered a therapy for specific illnesses. Rather, yoga employs a broad holistic approach that focuses on teaching people a new lifestyle, way of thinking, and way of being in the world. In [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Yoga’s primary emphasis is upon general well-being. Although yoga has been shown to be beneficial in a variety of conditions, it is not considered a therapy for specific illnesses. Rather, yoga employs a broad holistic approach that focuses on teaching people a new lifestyle, way of thinking, and way of being in the world. In the process, however, it is also found to bring a myriad of healing effects. By attending to practices for improving, regaining or retaining general good health, a person is likely to find that some of his more specific difficulties tend to disappear. Many of the healing effects of yoga is clinically verified. We will look at the healing effects of yoga. However, one of the most important benefit of yoga is its application in relieving stress, fatigue, invigoration and vitality and its anti-aging properties and its application for relaxation therapy.</p>
<p>According to Swami Sivananda, the benefits of pranayama (yogic breathing practices) include: “The body becomes strong and healthy. Too much fat is reduced. There is luster in the face. Eyes sparkle like diamonds. The practitioner becomes very handsome. Voice becomes sweet and melodious”</p>
<p>Indra Devi, author of many books on yoga suggests that with yoga: “You will be able to enjoy better sleep, a happier disposition, a clearer and calmer mind. You will learn how to build up your health and protect yourself against colds, fevers, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and other troubles. You will know what to do in order to remain youthful, vital and alert, regardless of your calendar-age; how to lose or gain weight; how to get rid of premature wrinkles, and keep a smooth skin and clear complexion.”</p>
<p>Doing yoga regularly offers many benefits, including making you feel better about your body as you become stronger and more flexible, toning your muscles, reducing stress and improving your mental and physical well-being. Will it help you lose weight, though?</p>
<p>Answer: Practicing any type of yoga will build strength, but some types may not raise your heart rate enough to make them the only form of exercise you need to include in your weight loss regime. It depends on the type of yoga you select and how frequently you practice it.</p>
<p>In order to lose weight, you must eat healthily and burn calories by doing exercise that raises your heart rate on a regular basis. Some types of yoga, such as Iyengar, in which yoga poses are held for several minutes with a resting period between each pose, will build muscles and improve your posture, but will not give you the cardiovascular workout you need to lose weight.</p>
<p>If you plan to make yoga your primary form of exercise, you must do a vigorous 90-minute yoga class at least three times a week. Many people also choose to combine yoga with running, walking or other aerobic exercise in order to reach their weight loss goals.</p>
<p>Ashtanga:</p>
<p>Ashtanga Yoga is a very vigorous style of practice with a few distinct advantages for those who want to lose weight. Ashtanga practitioners are among the most dedicated of yogis, and beginners are often encouraged to sign up for a series of classes, which will help with motivation. Another advantage is that once you learn the poses, Ashtanga Yoga is ideal for home practitioners.</p>
<p>Power Yoga:</p>
<p>Power Yoga is extremely popular, because it provides a very vigorous cardiovascular workout.</p>
<p>Hot Yoga:</p>
<p>Vinyasa yoga done in a hot room ups the ante by guaranteeing</p>
<p>Yoga’s primary emphasis is upon general well-being. Although yoga has been shown to be beneficial in a variety of conditions, it is not considered a therapy for specific illnesses. Rather, yoga employs a broad holistic approach that focuses on teaching people a new lifestyle, way of thinking, and way of being in the world. In the process, however, it is also found to bring a myriad of healing effects. By attending to practices for improving, regaining or retaining general good health, a person is likely to find that some of his more specific difficulties tend to disappear. Many of the healing effects of yoga is clinically verified. We will look at the healing effects of yoga. However, one of the most important benefit of yoga is its application in relieving stress, fatigue, invigoration and vitality and its anti-aging properties and its application for relaxation therapy.</p>
<p>According to Swami Sivananda, the benefits of pranayama (yogic breathing practices) include: “The body becomes strong and healthy. Too much fat is reduced. There is luster in the face. Eyes sparkle like diamonds. The practitioner becomes very handsome. Voice becomes sweet and melodious”</p>
<p>Indra Devi, author of many books on yoga suggests that with yoga: “You will be able to enjoy better sleep, a happier disposition, a clearer and calmer mind. You will learn how to build up your health and protect yourself against colds, fevers, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and other troubles. You will know what to do in order to remain youthful, vital and alert, regardless of your calendar-age; how to lose or gain weight; how to get rid of premature wrinkles, and keep a smooth skin and clear complexion.”</p>
<p>Doing yoga regularly offers many benefits, including making you feel better about your body as you become stronger and more flexible, toning your muscles, reducing stress and improving your mental and physical well-being. Will it help you lose weight, though?</p>
<p>Answer: Practicing any type of yoga will build strength, but some types may not raise your heart rate enough to make them the only form of exercise you need to include in your weight loss regime. It depends on the type of yoga you select and how frequently you practice it.</p>
<p>In order to lose weight, you must eat healthily and burn calories by doing exercise that raises your heart rate on a regular basis. Some types of yoga, such as Iyengar, in which yoga poses are held for several minutes with a resting period between each pose, will build muscles and improve your posture, but will not give you the cardiovascular workout you need to lose weight.</p>
<p>If you plan to make yoga your primary form of exercise, you must do a vigorous 90-minute yoga class at least three times a week. Many people also choose to combine yoga with running, walking or other aerobic exercise in order to reach their weight loss goals.</p>
<p>Ashtanga:</p>
<p>Ashtanga Yoga is a very vigorous style of practice with a few distinct advantages for those who want to lose weight. Ashtanga practitioners are among the most dedicated of yogis, and beginners are often encouraged to sign up for a series of classes, which will help with motivation. Another advantage is that once you learn the poses, Ashtanga Yoga is ideal for home practitioners.</p>
<p>Power Yoga:</p>
<p>Power Yoga is extremely popular, because it provides a very vigorous cardiovascular workout.</p>
<p>Hot Yoga:</p>
<p>Vinyasa yoga done in a hot room ups the ante by guaranteeing</p>
<p>Yoga’s primary emphasis is upon general well-being. Although yoga has been shown to be beneficial in a variety of conditions, it is not considered a therapy for specific illnesses. Rather, yoga employs a broad holistic approach that focuses on teaching people a new lifestyle, way of thinking, and way of being in the world. In the process, however, it is also found to bring a myriad of healing effects. By attending to practices for improving, regaining or retaining general good health, a person is likely to find that some of his more specific difficulties tend to disappear. Many of the healing effects of yoga is clinically verified. We will look at the healing effects of yoga. However, one of the most important benefit of yoga is its application in relieving stress, fatigue, invigoration and vitality and its anti-aging properties and its application for relaxation therapy.</p>
<p>According to Swami Sivananda, the benefits of pranayama (yogic breathing practices) include: “The body becomes strong and healthy. Too much fat is reduced. There is luster in the face. Eyes sparkle like diamonds. The practitioner becomes very handsome. Voice becomes sweet and melodious”</p>
<p>Indra Devi, author of many books on yoga suggests that with yoga: “You will be able to enjoy better sleep, a happier disposition, a clearer and calmer mind. You will learn how to build up your health and protect yourself against colds, fevers, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and other troubles. You will know what to do in order to remain youthful, vital and alert, regardless of your calendar-age; how to lose or gain weight; how to get rid of premature wrinkles, and keep a smooth skin and clear complexion.”</p>
<p>Doing yoga regularly offers many benefits, including making you feel better about your body as you become stronger and more flexible, toning your muscles, reducing stress and improving your mental and physical well-being. Will it help you lose weight, though?</p>
<p>Answer: Practicing any type of yoga will build strength, but some types may not raise your heart rate enough to make them the only form of exercise you need to include in your weight loss regime. It depends on the type of yoga you select and how frequently you practice it.</p>
<p>In order to lose weight, you must eat healthily and burn calories by doing exercise that raises your heart rate on a regular basis. Some types of yoga, such as Iyengar, in which yoga poses are held for several minutes with a resting period between each pose, will build muscles and improve your posture, but will not give you the cardiovascular workout you need to lose weight.</p>
<p>If you plan to make yoga your primary form of exercise, you must do a vigorous 90-minute yoga class at least three times a week. Many people also choose to combine yoga with running, walking or other aerobic exercise in order to reach their weight loss goals.</p>
<p>Ashtanga:</p>
<p>Ashtanga Yoga is a very vigorous style of practice with a few distinct advantages for those who want to lose weight. Ashtanga practitioners are among the most dedicated of yogis, and beginners are often encouraged to sign up for a series of classes, which will help with motivation. Another advantage is that once you learn the poses, Ashtanga Yoga is ideal for home practitioners.</p>
<p>Power Yoga:</p>
<p>Power Yoga is extremely popular, because it provides a very vigorous cardiovascular workout.</p>
<p>Hot Yoga:</p>
<p>Vinyasa yoga done in a hot room ups the ante by guaranteeing you’ll sweat buckets.</p>
<p>Keep in mind that if you are just starting to do yoga or are quite out of shape, always choose a beginner-level class.</p>
<p>Yoga Workouts at Home</p>
<p>Keep yourself exercising by doing yoga at home on the days you can’t make a class. Follow along with a video or audio recording, if you are new to yoga. When you are ready to plan your own workouts, use these yoga sequencing ideas to help you come up with yoga sessions of varying lengths that suit your needs.</p>
<p><em>By: <strong>Nirmala</strong></em></p>
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