Teaching Yoga's topics - tribe.net

Looking for yoga instructor in my area

Indigo — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 14:41:24 GMT

Does anyone know of anywhere I can look... I run a small dance studio in Arlington WA and I am looking for a yoga instructor to teach classes..... i have been looking but no leads at this moment.... any ideas you may have are greatly appreciated... Thank you! Indigo

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

what to do about yoga studio problem

waveyoga — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 13:37:54 GMT

I paid 99.00 for unlimited yoga at a studio where I know the director and head teacher. Her name is on the schedule teaching sometimes 2 classes per day.

Things began with a substitute in her place 3 of the first 5 classes.. and in this class ( the fifth).. the teacher said something rather derogatory about larger students and tried to get me to do something which I couldnt anatomically do. I am a size 14/16 right now and most in class are 6 or 8 size. it is good yoga but has a large contortionist component. So some wrps are easier if a person is thinner.

I had tried with the answering service to get info re the director and when she woudl be back.. and was only given vague answers.

I didtn want to take fromt his teacher again and got only more vague answers about substitutes and their schedules.

Then the assistant director responded to me via email when I had asked for a call.. at that time I had only 1 hour of internet use per day at the library.. so I wrote her anyway when I needed my tiem for professional work.. she had promised to email back in 10 minutes.. it took her 2 1/2 days.

No one calls back the registration desk is always busy when I went in.. now I dotn even knwo when my 2 months is up.. I was very sick for 10 days and didnt go in.

I left an email and a phone call for the director adn no response.

I had been offered a refund early on and I wish I had gotten it.

i am shocked at this chain of events. I KNOW this person.. when I moved here on walking the neighborhood I walked in to her new studio and we talked even about her teaching a yoga teacher training course and me registering in it.

I knwo sheis sick somehow .. but I can not get any info from anyone I have spent tiem with an answering service which preteneds they are the studio.. and I now knwo the service owner..

I am sad and mad

posted in Teaching Yoga - 7 replies

Teacher Training in the OC ?

Levona — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 20:23:17 GMT

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if anyone knew of some good yoga training programs in Orange County, California. I just moved here from Maine and I've been searching online for programs, but haven't found one yet that fits my schedule, money availablity and interest program-wise. Any suggestions would be great!

Thank you! :)

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Kripalu

Marnie — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:31:12 GMT

hey yoga community,

i've been considering a stay at kripalu in lenox, massachusetts. what's the word about this place? have you stayed there, gotten certified to teach yoga there? i understand kripalu has worked through a few scandals, i was wondering what the current vibe is about the community, its yoga certification program, etc.

thanks!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 3 replies

Does anyone here teach yoga full time for a living

Jed — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 06:07:41 GMT

Would just like to know what that sort of life style is like

posted in Teaching Yoga - 9 replies

Aligning Crystals in the Head?

Annecl — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:43:53 GMT

One of my students asked me if I knew anyone that could align the 3 crystals in her head. I really don't know much about this. Is there an on-line resourse someone trusts.? A resourse where one could find a practitioner of this. Or I live in Northeast Ohio, is there anyone here that can help?

posted in Teaching Yoga - 4 replies

Refunds for class

kps — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:13:04 GMT

Do you refund?

1. One person paid and attended only one class. I have tried to contact her without any results? Even if I could contact, should I refund?

2. One lady put together a class at her workplace. I amended my prices for them, meaning I charged my normal amount as if at the center I use. I explained the cost, and let her know that I needed at least 3 people to make it worthwhile. She promised at least 3, and stated 6 would attend. Only 3 prepaid and attended class, and only one has shown up since. Since they prepaid I saw no problem.

The coordinator of the sessions called, and has quit her job. She will not be attending class. She has asked for a refund after attending only one session.

a. Since I told her needed at least three, since she is aware of this, how would you handle it? Refund or not?
This only leaves me with two in the class. If not, how would you word the conversation?

b. What if others start asking for refunds b/c their work schedules would not allow it? They picked the time for the class, not me.

3. What are your policies?

I am starting out, by myself, and trying to prove to my husband that giving up my day job (praciticing medicine) to do what I love is worth it....

posted in Teaching Yoga - 9 replies

advice for newbs

niki — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 06:35:33 GMT

Ello loves,

I have been practicing yoga on and off for about 5 years but have become much more disciplined in the last year, practicing somewhere between 3 and 6 times a week. I would like to lead some basic yoga groups this summer to some co's who are in good physical health and anywhere from 18-27 years old. (mostly for relaxation after very active 16 hour days)

Any advice for postures, or miscellaneous knowledge you've aquired, having led groups already?

I'm thinking: warm up stretches for ankles and wrists, neck, shoulders, thighs, back, belly and lots of breath awareness...sun salutation and warrior poses, some spinal twists and balancing postures, sadhana and ujari breath. What say you?

Thank you!!
((jai guru de va))
niki

posted in Teaching Yoga - 2 replies

Is yoga a religion?

andreafreel — Sat, 12 Nov 2005 05:11:51 GMT

I have had some really interesting and heated conversations with my boyfriend (a non yogini) regarding yoga. The issue that continues to come up is defining yoga as a religion. I am not talking about asana practice but more about the the spiritual practice of the vedic scriptures and using mantra and other aspects for self realization and union with god. I have been taught that Hinduism and the yoga teachings were traditions of spiritual practice but not really defined as religion in the western sense of organized religion. I would love to get other peoples input and thoughts on this.

Namaste,
Drea

posted in Teaching Yoga - 33 replies

Yoga Studio Software?

Renee — Fri, 30 May 2008 19:24:15 GMT

If you use software to track registration and such at your studio, what program so you use? We (or rather, I) currently hand record all registration information which is extremely tedious and complicated. My boss doesn't like Mind Body/OmSoft, and I'm currently playing with a trial version of OmBase which, frankly, is driving me batshit insane in a most unyogic sort of way.

We don't do retail and our teachers are responsible for their own payroll stuff, so mostly what I need is something that can handle registration for 20 classes a week in six week sessions with a dizzying array of payment options and provide a contact database.

All suggestions appreciated!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 2 replies

What not to wear

Liz — Fri, 30 May 2008 18:53:52 GMT

Hello,

I had read an article from yoga journal about how you dress for teaching a class makes a big impact on yourself and your students. I think it definitely says a lot in some ways. I wanted to know other teachers and students views or comments on this. It's something I don't always think about it, but find it interesting. I've also included a link to the article:
http://www.yogajournal.com/for_teachers/2609

thanks,
-Liz

posted in Teaching Yoga - 5 replies

Yoga Certification Should I ??

Cole Done — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 19:16:00 GMT

Hello all. I have been doing yoga for about three years now, and I find people that know me ask me all the time questions about yoga and it benefits. I have read numerous books/magazines about yoga and its benefits, but because i have been only three years I am not sure if I am the person they should come too. I was wondering if taking a yoga certification course to become more knowledgable is the correct path to take since I always get these questions. All comments are welome. GOd Bless

posted in Teaching Yoga - 27 replies

Sprained Ankle

DaddyBill — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:56:41 GMT

I sprained my ankle a week ago and have been off the mat since then.
The Midwest Yoga Conference is at the end of this month
I'm eager to restart my practice so that I don't burn out during this three day intensive.
Is it a bad idea to test my ankle in standing poses, rather giving it the maximum amount of rest over the next two weeks?
One part of me says look into getting a refund, the other part says don't miss this opportunity to learn from a variety of teachers.
I know no one can give medical advice, but this event was going to jump start my home practice, grrr.
p.s. I have been lurking for months in the many yoga tribes and thank you all for your inspiration.
Namaste

posted in Teaching Yoga - 5 replies

Teacher Training Schools - Your Help

Quinto — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 18:15:50 GMT

Hi,

After looking at many options and links.

What is your opinion and links on Teacher Training Schools :

In US, Canada, Latin America, India, other.

Anything to share about best prices, facilities etc... ?

posted in Teaching Yoga - 20 replies

How do you nurture your sore body?

mega_electron_volt — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 02:24:40 GMT

I am currently immersed in a week-long advanced yoga intensive.
The days are inspiring and amazing but my body is quite sore!
Any suggestions (other than hot baths) for managing sore muscles and supporting my body thru this week?

Cheers!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 73 replies

Need partner/encouragement/collaborators re yoga intensive

waveyoga — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:31:04 GMT

Hello!
I just signed up for all the yog ayou can take in 2 months for 99.00 from Yogiway in Seattle.. its a great studio.

I want to talk with people in Seattle hopefully who also are doing a personal intensive.

Ok or anywhere else.
Its a challenge to go to class sometimes.
I chose nto to go for a few days because an instructor decided to point out flaws in the 3 of us who are size 214/16 rather than the 'sticks' who were the other class members.
So who cares that I can't right now do a headstand? Really? I can do everything else in a 2 hour intensive class except the crow poses. And I didn't tire and quit. That's pretty darn good. If you just do beginning yoga then that's all you do.
I am hoping for encouragement and mayeb someone to join me in this.It has super potential.

Namaste
Cathy

posted in Teaching Yoga - 3 replies

A.M. Yoga Practice...

YogiB — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:51:21 GMT

I am trying to put together a warm up yoga sequence for the mornings.
I am NOT a morning person, so i"m trying to formulate something that can
wake my bum up and energize me to the fullest for the day ahead. Any ideas,
comments, sequences etc... would all be appreciated.

Namaste~
-Brian

posted in Teaching Yoga - 16 replies

Free Yoga Charlotte

kps — Tue, 13 May 2008 04:43:41 GMT

Monday, May 19 8-9pm .

Wedgewood North subdivision Pool

Londonshire Drive

www.yogaformyheart.com

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga Blankets (Natural Fibers)

Ezekiel — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:22:48 GMT

Does anyone know a good source for cotton or other natural fiber yoga blankets? Mexican style, especially!
Thanks

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Nerves hurting in feet while on balls of feet

Indigo — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:43:26 GMT

I'm a BellyDance Instructor this came up yesterday and wondering if anyone has any insight
Yesterday in class.... My class and I were working on a move on the balls of our feet..... This is in my advanced class and I do warm peeps up and part of warm ups usually include either yoga balancing or a little ballet ..... I like to dance on the balls of my feet and want my students to be comfortable....
Anyhoo One of my students mentioned the nerves in her feet hurt when she is on the balls..... And I am wondering if anyone may have any advice at all....
She is very overweight and does have some health issues tho not too bad but just wanted to give that in....
All I could think was to recommend to her simply practicing becoming used to being on the balls of her feet and really work to engage her core / posture...... However she did mention the nerves in her feet hurt.... Any ideas out there

posted in Teaching Yoga - 4 replies

KUNDALINI--MOTHER OF ALL YOGA

madan_gautam — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:17:20 GMT

What is kundalini?

``Kundalini'' literally means coiling, like a snake. In the classical literature of hatha yoga kundalini is described as a coiled serpent at the base of the spine. The image of coiling, like a spring, conveys the sense of untapped potential energy. Perhaps more meaningfully kundalini can be described as a great reservoir of creative energy at the base of the spine.
It's not useful to sit with our consciousness fixed in our head and think of kundalini as a foreign force running up and down our spine. Unfortunately the serpent image may serve to accentuate this alien nature of the image. It's more useful to think of kundalini energy as the very foundation of our consciousness so that when kundalini moves through our bodies our consciousness necessarily changes with it.

The concept of kundalini can also be examined from a strictly psychological perspective. From this perspective kundalini can be thought of as a rich source of psychic or libidinous energy in our unconscious.

In the classical literature of Kashmir Shaivism kundalini is described in three different manifestions. The first of these is as the universal energy or para-kundalini. The second of these is as the energizing function of the body-mind complex or prana-kundalini. The third of these is as consciousness or shakti-kundalini which simultaneously subsumes and intermediates between these two. Ultimately these three forms are the same but understanding these three different forms will help to understand the differerent manifestations of kundalini.

What is the difference between prana and kundalini? What is the difference between qi (or chi) and kundalini?

First let us try to relate to concepts from the same tradition - prana and kundalini. Prana has been translated as the ``vital breath'' and ``bio-energetic motility''; it is associated with maintaining the functioning of the mind and body. Kundalini, in its form as prana-kundalini, is identical to prana ; however, Kundalini also has a manifestations as consciousness and a as a unifying cosmic energy. One could ascribe these same aspects to prana as well so past a certain point these become distinctions without differences.

From the subjective standpoint of an individual actually experiencing the awakening of kundalini I have found three completely different opinions:

The first opinion is that a pranic awakening is only a prelude to a full kundalini awakening. Tibetan yogins that I have encountered consider the activation of prana (Tibetan: rlung) as merely a prerequisite for the activation of kundalini (Tibetan: gTummo). What's attractive about this viewpoint is that it explains the difference between the experience of simply having pleasant sensations in the spine and the much more powerful experience of having a ``freight-train''-like full kundalini experience.

The second opinion, espoused by Swami Shivom Tirth for example, is that prana and kundalini are absolutely equivalent and that it is not meaningful in any way to describe a difference between kundalini rising and prana rising. When posed with question as to how to distinguish between pleasant sensations that show some pranic-activity in the spine and the much more powerful experience Swami Shivom Tirth said that the difference is not in the nature of the activity but in the consciousness that observes it. If the consciousness that experiences the pranic activity is seated within the spine (or more correctly, the central channel, known as the sushumna), then the experience is felt much more powerfully.

The third opinion, espoused by the modern hatha yogin, Desikaran, is that pranic awakening is the true experience to be aimed for and kundalini is actually an obstruction. Desikaran sees the kundalini as a block in the central channel and thus the kundalini must be ``killed'' to make way for the prana. This is the most unusual view of the three.

The Chinese concept of qi (or chi) can be safely identified with the Indian concept of prana.

If all this seems confusing - don't worry, you're in good company. My conclusion is that these are all different terminologies for dealing with a common set of experiences. Any one of these viewpoints is adequate for describing the full range of experiences. What is probably more relevant is to distinguish two different experiences which are often confused. In one an individual experiences some pleasant energizing electric energy running along the spine. This experience itself brings about a wide range of experiences and results in vitality and sensitivity.

Another very distinct experience is the experience of kundalini entering the sushumna and rising up the spine. As soon as kundalini enters the sushumna this experience will completely overwhelm ordinary waking consciousness. From the moment that kundalini enters the sushumna there will no longer be a distrinction between the subjective consciousness which experiences and the object of experience. This experience much more profoundly transfigures consciousness.

If kundalini is universal, why do some kundalini yogins seem to have more kundalini-energy than others?

It's an intriguing question. If an individual's kundalini is viewed as simply a personal reservoir of a cosmic energy then why would one person appear to have more of a reservoir of kundalini energy than another? Nevertheless, this does appear to be the case. This is probably another advantage of the viewpoint that prana (or qi) is the same as kundalini.
Some Chinese texts distinguish between ``innate qi'' or ``pre-natal qi'' that one is born with and ``cultivated qi'' that can be developed. Clearly some people simply have more ``innate qi.'' This manifests as a stronger more resilient body and greater general vitality.

Through training those that have relatively weak ``innate qi'' may surpass those who have strong ``innate qi'' but do not train. There are many stories in the Chinese literature of Qi Gong about people who took up Qi Gong in order to improve their poor health became powerful martial artists or great qi gong masters. Of course those that have strong ``innate qi'' and also train their qi may develop the strongest qi of all.

What does kundalini have to do with spiritual enlightenment? What is the goal of kundalini yoga?

First we need a few concepts: In yogic anatomy the sushumna is the central channel and conduit for the kundalini energy that runs along our spine and up to the crown of our head. Along this channel are placed additional channel networks called cakras. These cakras are associated with major aspects of our anatomy - for example our throat, heart, solar plexus, and in turn these aspects of our anatomy are related to aspects of our human nature.
According to the literature of kundalini yoga our experience of these centers is limited due to knots which restrict the flow of energy into these centers. Three knots are particuarly important. The knot of Brahma which restricts the center at the base of the spine. The knot of Vishnu which restricts the heart center and the knot of Rudra which restricts the center between the eyebrows. These knots form an important framework in yogic thinking and the stages toward enlightenment are articulated in terms of breaking through these knots in the yogic classic the Hatha Yoga Pradipika as well as in some of the yoga upanishads. Specifically, four stages of progress are described:

arambha

ghata

parichaya

nishpatti

Arambha is associated with breaking the knot of Brahma and the awakening of kundalini.

Ghata is associated with breaking the knot of Vishnu and and with internal absorption.

Parichaya the absorption deepens and in

nishpatti the knot of Rudra is pierced and the kundalini may ascend to the center at the crown of the head. In this state transcendence is integrated and, according to the yogic liteature, the yogi has nothing more to attain.

Putting these elaborate physiological decriptions aside, the goal of kundalini yoga is the same as the goal of any legimitate spiritual practice: To be liberated from the limited bounds of the self-centered and alienated ego. In kundalini yoga this is associated with internal manifestations of the kundalini but the external manifestations should be similar to any other legitiimate spiritual practice.

So does everyone agree that kundalini awakening is necessary for enlightenment?

The view that kundalini awakening is necessary for enlightenment is held in the diverse literature of Kashmir Shaivism and in other Hindu Tantric literature. It is found in the literature of the Hatha Yogis and the Nath Sampradaya. You will find similar views in many Buddhist Tantric works. In addition this view is held by recent spiritual figures such as Shri Ramakrishna, Swami Sivananda, Paramahamsa Yogananda and Swami Vivekananda and of course by contemporary kundalini yogins themselves.

Nevertheless there are some dissenters from this view. These include Sri Chinmoy, Da Free John and Gurdjieff. Dissent can take a number of different forms. For Gurjieff kundalini is associated only with a binding force that leads us to be more attached to the world. Such a view of kundalini is not entirely inaccurate but only reflects the functioning of kundalini in the lower energy centers. For Sri Chinmoy kundalini is an amplifying function that may make an individual more powerful but not more enlightened. From my perspective this also only addresses the impact of kundalini while it operates in the lower energy centers.

Da Free John (born Franklin Jones, a. k. a. Da Love Ananda) has a much more fundamental criticism of kundalini. As far as I understand his position, for him enlightenment cannot be the result of an experience; it is a cognitive transformation. Kundalini may evoke a wide variety of experiences but these are not in and of themselves enlightening. This is an interesting perspective but it seems to assume that the raising of kundalini is an experience in which an ego-consciousness experiences a separate object known as kundalini. Again, this view is consistent with the experience of kundalini in the lower energy centers in which the ego is detached from the movement of kundalini and kundalini experiences are precieved as separate from oneself. However, I would argue that as kundalini rises the ego-consciousness becomes infused in a more fundamental consciousness of cit-shakti-kundalini and this experience does in fact produce a fundamental cognitive change.

Finally, there are many other spiritual practices, such as Zen, Vipassana meditation that consider kundalini irrelevant. Some practitioners or even teachers of these paths, such as Jiyu Kennet, may have kundalini experiences but generally kundalini is not a pivotal part of these paths.

Can I use kundalini yoga simply to improve my health?

Yoga exercises which were traditionally used to purify the body in preparation for awakening the kundalini can also be used simply to improve the health. To practice techniques aimed at actively awakening kundalini with the goal of simply improving your health seems to be a misuse of these powerful techniques.

There are those that teach kundalini yoga principally emphasizing its benefits on health without much discussion of the spiritual benefits. This is how hatha yoga has been taught in the west for some time. The affect of this approach depends on the attitude of the student. There is certainly nothing wrong with trying to improve your health but there is a tension between awakening an energy that will ultimately burn up the ego and trying to shape that energy to simply fulfill an ego-oriented motive.

Is there any scientific basis for kundalini and the cakras? Do I really have to believe that all these cakras physically exist?

Research on kundalini is especially spotty. There is no compelling work to show that the system represents insights into actual human anatomy. But it's important to understand that kundalini and its network of channels and cakras is simply how yogins have chosen to explain their experience and that yogins from many cultures have arrived at similar, though not identical, concepts. The true physical mechanisms underlying these experiences may be very different from those described. Izaak Benthov has proposed a model to explain kundalini in terms of micro- motion in the brain. In this model experiences are associated with parts of the body, such as the heart, because the part of the brain associated with that part of the body is stimulated by micro-vibrations. His model is treated in ``The Kundalini Experience'' by Sannella referenced below. From a practical perspective the key thing is our subjective experience and that the roadmap of these subjective experiences has been mapped out.

Is Chinese qi gong a kind of kundalini yoga?

If there is any contemporary teaching that is even more diverse in approach than kundalini yoga it must be qi gong. As a result it is hard to compare kundalini yoga to qi gong. From my limited exposure to qi gong it is clear there are many qi gong practices that are identical to kundalini yoga practices. What is also clear is that may qi gong practitioners have reported experiences that are identical to those of kundalini yogins. In so far as each of these practices aims at eliminating blocks to the qi/prana energy then they share a common ground.

What about Tibetan Buddhism - has kundalini been known in Tibet?

Kundalini yoga in the Natha Sampradaya and Vajrayana in Tibetan Buddhism both take their origin from the Mahasiddhas who were active in India from the 8th century to the 12th century. Kundalini yoga practices formed the core of the teachings of a number of these Mahasiddhas and are strongly represented in both Tibetan Buddhist practices and contemporary kundalini yoga practices. Kundalini yoga was spoken of as ``Candali yoga'' by these Mahasiddhas and became known as gTummo rnal 'byor in Tibet. Candali yoga was a key practice of the famous Tibetan yogin Milarepa. The role of kundalini yoga in Tibetan Buddhism is discussed in more detail in the Kundalini Yogas FAQ.

Are there any other traditions that show awareness of kundalini?

If you believe that kundalini is at the basis of spiritual progress then every valid spiritual tradition must have some awareness of kundalini. Christianity (especially Quakerism and Pentecostalism), Sufism, Qabalistic mysticism, alchemy and magick all have literature which demonstrates some awareness of the kundalini process but these traditions are not, to this author's awareness, so open in their exposition of the techniques and so it is hard to judge the depth of understanding latent in these traditions. Nevertheless, the imagery is so unmistakable in these traditions that each must have, at least at one time, been conversant with the movement of kundalini.

So how do I awaken kundalini?

Indirectly kundalini can be awakened by devotion, by selfless service, or by intellectual enquiry. In these paths the blocks to the awakening of kundalini are slowly removed. Occasionally, individuals on these paths will experience a sudden awakening of kundalini but generally because the blocks are slowly and gently removed kundalini-like experiences evolve slowly in these paths.

Broadly speaking there are two radically different direct approaches to awakening kundalini. One approach requires initiation by a guru and relies upon a technique called shaktipat, or ``descent of shakti.'' It is variously called: Siddha Mahayoga, Kundalini Mahayoga or Sahaja Yoga (Spontaneous Yoga). These approaches are treated in the Siddha Mahayoga FAQ. The other approach uses intentional yogic techniques . The styles using intentional techniques include Mantra Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Laya Yoga or Kriya Yoga. These approaches are treated in the Kundalini Yogas FAQ .

Fundamentally the approach of Siddha Mahayoga and the Kundalini Yogas are different. In Siddha Mahayoga the guru awakens the kundalini and after that the core of the practice is the inactive and non-willful surrender to kundalini. In Kundalini Yogas the will is used to awaken the kundalini and to guide its progress. Clearly these are different approaches.
Nevertheless, elements of the each approach occur in the practices of the other. Siddha Mahayogins may use asanas, pranayamas and other hatha yoga practices. On the other hand gurus in Kundalini Yoga may give infusions of shakti to their students to help them at particular points in their practice.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using effort, in kundalini yogas, as opposed to the grace of the guru, in siddha mahayoga, to awaken kundalini?

Since every practitioner brings his own unique inclinations and obstacles to the practice of yoga it is very hard to generalize on this point. In terms of actually awakening kundalini gurus of Siddha Mahayoga claim that the kundalini is more easily and reliably awakened by the grace of the guru than by individual effort. In my limited experience I would agree. with this assertion. While not every long-term student of either practice necessarily shows signs of kundalini awakening it is amazing how many people have had instant awakenings of kundalini through initiation from siddha gurus.

In terms of encountering difficulties along the path the siddha gurus would also claim that fewer problems due to kundalini awakening, such as mental imbalance, are encountered by students of Siddha Mahayoga. Here I think the results are mixed. It seems to me that the guidance of the teacher in either Siddha Mahayoga or Kundalini Yoga is more a determining factor than which style of kundalini practice is employed.

Generally speaking each style of practice has its strengths and weakness. The strength of Siddha Mahayoga is the ease with which it awakens the kundalini. The weakness is that because the kundalini is so easily awakened by the guru students of Siddha Mahayoga often have completely undisciplined personal meditation practices. Time is spent instead to trying to recreate some of their initial experiences by following the guru around hoping for his or her grace Some people spend 20 or more years in this manner without ever developing an inner core of practice or experience.

The strength of the family of Kundalini Yogas is that the progress is at least apparently more under the control of the student of the yoga. These students seem more likely to have disciplined personal practices and more of an understanding of how the practice relates to their own experience.
Unfortunately for some students this leads to a fairly egotistical approach to their practice and ultimately the kundalini energy is used to bolster the ego rather than to merge the ego in bliss.

What are the signs of an awakened kundalini?

Briefly, according to classical literature the signs of an awakened kundalini can be grouped into: mental signs, vocal signs and physical signs. Mental signs can include visions that range from ecstatically blissful to terrifyingly frightful. Vocal signs can include spontaneous vocal expressions that range from singing or reciting mantras to make various animals sounds such as growling or chirping. Physical signs include trembling, shaking and spontaneously performing hatha yoga postures and pranayamas.

From a more subjective perspective the more pleasant experiences associated with a kundalini awakening may include: waves of bliss, periods of elation, glimpses of transcendental consciousness. The less pleasant experiences associated with a kundalini awakening may include: trembling, sharp aches in areas associated with the cakras, periods of irrational anxiety, sudden flashes of heat.

Are these methods of awakening kundalini dangerous? What about Gopi Krishna's books?

If we take the psychological perspective and view kundalini as the power latent in our unconscious then it is easy to understand that awakening this force is going to bring a greater amount of unconscious material into our consciousness. Even in the best of circumstances this is likely to be uncomfortable and if an individual is barely coping with his unconscious even under normal circumstances then awakening kundalini may push the individual over into psychosis. This phenomenon has been documented many times.

Forceful methods of awakening kundalini pose additional dangers. Because quite forceful methods can be used to awaken kundalini these techniques themselves are potentially physically and mentally disruptive. An individual named Gopi Krishna awakened his kundalini by doing unguided meditation on his crown cakra. His life after awakening was both blessed by ecstatic bliss and tormented by physical and mental discomfort. Eventually his experience stabilized. He wrote down his experiences in a recently re-released autbiography entitled ``Living with Kundalini.'' Gopi Krishna's autobiography appears to be an honest representation of his experiences but it is only one extreme datapoint in the panorama of experience on kundalini yoga. It represents dangers in forceful unguided practice but it is not representative of a typical practicioner's experience.

But even if kundalini is dangerous, isn't it a faster way to enlighenment?

First of all it may be useful to observe that there is no technique currently known on earth that appears to be rapidly catapulting large number of individuals toward enlightenment. Because kundalini yogas deal so directly with a powerful enlightening force it seems natural that they would be ``faster'', but there appears to be alot of tortoise and hare phenomena at work with newbie kundalini yogins. Many people begin kundalini yogas, have strong initial experiences and then become frightened. Many who perservere through this initial phase become distracted by the energy and focus on temporal and phenomenal applications of the energy.

There have been many scandals among kundalini yoga teachers - particularly sexual scandals. Is there a correlation between sexual scandals and kundalini yoga practice?

There have been scandals regarding the teachers of many paths, both spiritual and non-spiritual ; however, it is probably fair to say that kundalini yogins have had more than their share. Since the first publication of these frequently-asked-questions in 1994 more than one well-known kundalini yoga teacher has been implicated in having clandestine affairs with students and has been asked to step down from his position as spiritual leader as a result.

An advanced kundalini yogin is typically a powerful charismatic individual who has the ability to directly influence the minds of others. Westerners often mistake this power as a sign of enlightenment and allow such teachers liberties as a result.

In addition it is quite common for kundalini yoga to temporarily accentuate the sex drive. This period requires extra discipline. Finally, kundalini yoga is closely associated with tantrism and sex is often used in conjunction with tantric practice. Where sex is used there is of course the opportunity for misuse or abuse.

If my kundalini is awakened will I need to change my lifestyle?

It's hard to have your cake and eat it too. If you awaken kundalini in order to change and enrich your life it's reasonable to expect you may need to change your lifestyle as a result. The recommendations of both classical literature and experience is that sleep and diet will need to be moderated otherwise severe discomfort may arise. Furthermore without moderating sexual activity and physical work it will be hard to experience much success with kundalini. The extent that these elements of your life need to change depends on the nature of the individual. While genuine mental imbalances arising from kundalini are rare nearly every kundalini yogin will find periods when one needs to be especially sensitive to needs for sleep, quiet and diet

posted in Teaching Yoga - 4 replies

Teaching Kids

Renee — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 02:08:31 GMT

I've just started co-teaching a twice-weekly class to middle school girls and would love to hear what sort of teaching and crowd-control techniques others use with kids, both in this age range and outside of it. I find that there are beautiful moments of stillness in class, like when I have them close their eyes and practice their "darth vader" (ujayyi) breathing, and there are also moments where there's giggling and chatting and I have to figure out how much to let that ride and when/how to reign it in. They love tricky balance poses, but if I say the words "sun salutation" the room erupts in a chorus of groans (answer--I no longer say it, i just call the poses in sequence.) And they freak out if they see an ant on their mat. I really enjoy their energy, though, and would love to know how to more effectively guide it in class. Thanks!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 6 replies

My new Yoga Blog

Vajrana — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 01:26:48 GMT

Shameless self promotion here -- check out:
asktheyogini.blogspot.com

and send me questions!

xoxo
Vaj

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Considering becoming Anusara-Inspired: anyone has experience with that?

Me — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:30:58 GMT

Dear all,
right now I teach Vinyasa Flow yoga. But I have been taking a lot of Anusara classes myself, and I really like the attention to detail and the heart opening theme. So I am considering taking the Anusara-Inspired path. I am curious to find out if any one of you has done that. It is a strictly regulated method, so I wonder if that gets in the way of a teacher's creative expression or helps him/her.

It is a big investment to take all the required classes, immersion, etc., so I want to make sure the organization works well for the teachers.

thank you in advance for your advice,
warmly,
me

posted in Teaching Yoga - 2 replies

Vote for Yoga!

Erica — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:12:38 GMT

If you're a yoga practitioner, you might like to know that the premier yoga website is up for a Webby Award for the first time ever! If you ever use YogaJournal.com as a resource, receive its newsletters, or just appreciate what the magazine and the site has done for the yoga community, please rally the troops and vote!
Here's the link: http://pv.webbyawards.com
Right now we're in third place behind National Geographic and Make... let's show everybody what a big, active yoga community there is online!!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

why do you teach yoga?

Lynn — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:08:11 GMT

Perhaps this has already been discussed on here, but I realized today how ... it seems good to ask this question often.

While preparing for a lecture on yoga, to help clarify it, I asked myself what I wanted the attendees to learn (a bunch of senior citizens). As I kind of waffled back and forth on this, I found myself asking 'why do I teach this period?' What I realized is that I was teaching from a place of cultural fear - teach to prevent pain, or avoid death, but when I look at people I teach them also from a place of love. On the opposite side of this was the real reason I teach, and I didn't even know it - to help people (and myself) enjoy life and see it's beauty. To keep our surface blinders at bay so we can have JOY.

I'm not sure how this will change HOW I teach, but it will definitely change how I LOOK at it, or approach it - which will, hopefully, give it an entirely different energy and rub off on me, too :) Instead of responding to this fear in myself and my students and society I can actually practice yoga's philosophies of surrender and gratitude.

Why do YOU teach, how as that evolved for you? Ah journeys....

Namaste

posted in Teaching Yoga - 9 replies

What is an Asana?

Paul — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:13:45 GMT

Here's a question that lies close to the heart of what we are doing as yoga instructors. How do we define asana? Patanjali defines it as sthirasukhamasanam, often translated as 'alert and relaxed' or 'steady and comfortable.' How do you define it personally so that the significance of asana resonates strongly with you. Here's mine...

---
Asana is an embodied state of vibrant calm in which we experience a sublime sense of interconnectivity within all of our motions and our stillness.

The most basic expressions of asana are standing, lying down, walking and breathing. Chopping vegetables, turning the pages of a book, and reaching for a cup of tea can all be sublimed into beautiful expressions of asana.

(Visit my tribe blog for a more in depth exploration)

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Hip-Flexor Pain in Forward Bends

Josh — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 17:32:44 GMT

I have a reasonably strong and flexible student whose hip-flexors cause her pain on one side in forward bends only. I have tried using a belt to help them soften and track into the fold a bit but it doesn't really seem to work.

Any suggestions??

posted in Teaching Yoga - 4 replies

i have a dream of opening a yoga and dance studio

Me — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 22:38:31 GMT

dear all,
i have a dream of opening a yoga and dance studio in the bay area, ca. i am a new yoga teacher, but i would also love to try running my own business. i would mainly manage, and maybe teach a few beginner classes.
i am wondering if any of you have tried being a small business owner. i want to combine yoga with tribal, free style sort of dance. also, what do you think of going into it alone versus having a partner?
there is a studio in my city already, but if offers mainly ashtanga. i want to offer more anusara, and allignment oriented vinyasa classes.
i will very much appreciate any ideas you might have!
thank you in advance,

warmly,
me

posted in Teaching Yoga - 5 replies

Dolphin Yoga

Paul — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 22:39:35 GMT

Integrated motion involves the dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang, which I think of as an intimate pair of dolphins at play. You can feel this dynamic interplay in the gentle undulations of the spinal column as our breath moves openly. When we apply our will and artistic thought to this rhythmic undulation, we can channel it into various patterns and forms and it becomes very very interesting. Understood in it's elegant simplicity, this principle applies to every movement we do - whether walking, writing, typing, juggling, dancing, singing, kissing, laughing, reaching, turning, twisting, sipping tea, you name it! It's all connected. Everything is unified in Yoga.

As an experiment, take any two activities that you enjoy and contemplate their interconnections using this framework.

Asana is not yoga, but yoga unifies all the diverse motions and patterns of asana.
Juggling is not yoga, but yoga unifies all the diverse motions and patterns of juggling.
Furthermore, yoga unifies asana and juggling in the dynamic interplay of yin and yang.

Try it for yourself.

_______ is not yoga, but yoga unifies _______.
_______ is not yoga, but yoga unifies ________.
Furthermore, yoga unifies _______ and _______ in the dynamic interplay of yin and yang.

Namaste,
Paul

www.theintimateweave.com

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Detox Sequencing

Katrina — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 20:25:42 GMT

What's you're favorite way to sequence for Detox specifically? Doesn't matter it it's passive or not.

After I'm warmed and have done some hip / leg openers, I like moving into

-Parvritta Trikonasana
-Half Fold with upper body weight on tops of thighs - neck released towards ground
-Parvritta Ardha Chandrasana w/ optional lifted leg's foot into a wall, hip height.
-Prasarita Padottanasa (sp?)
-Bridge (what's the sanskrit name for this pose? Ardha Urdva Danurasana : )?)
-Urdva Danurasana
-Halasana
-Salamba Sirsasana
-Savanasana

K

posted in Teaching Yoga - 6 replies

Free Month of Yoga to All Boston Area Yoga Teachers...

Gabriel — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:32:31 GMT

I wanted to pass this along... If you have any questions, please feel free to email me...
Peace,
Gabriel

Dear Friends,
South Boston Yoga is entering it's third month
since our opening and things are going incredibly
well. Our studio offers an open morning practice from
6am-8:30am M-F and weekends 7am-9am where teachers and
students alike are welcome to come in to study, play
and work together. To give you all a chance to check
it out Todd and I would like to extend a free month of
morning practice to any yoga teacher in Boston. You
name it Iyengar, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Pranavayu,
Jivamukti, Forrest, Baptiste, Sivananda, Restorative,
Bikram, Acro-Yoga, Meditation, etc. All styles are
warmly welcome and the studio is equipped with
bolsters, balls, a rope wall, inversion swings,
sandbags, straps, blindfolds, chairs, meditation
cushions and back bending benches. We really wanted to
give people a place to study and develop what they
love regardless of tradition or style and already the
inspiration we have seen people giving each other is
amazing. Come in any morning in April or May and we
will check you in for a free month to celebrate your
yoga studies and jump start your spring.
All the
Best,

-David and Todd

http://www.SouthBostonYoga.net
ps
Please feel free to pass this message on to anyone who
teaches and may be interested in joining in.

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

connections for teaching while in peru

christina — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 02:52:10 GMT

hello all you lovelies
im heading to peru beginning of May. I was wondering if anyone knows of any retreats or anywhere, any suggestions of spaces to teach while in this beautiful part of the world

peace to all my sisters and brothers

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Mats!

Renee — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:43:39 GMT

Hi!

The mats at our studio are in need of replacing and so I am searching out reviews of the various eco-friendly yoga mats out there. Anyone have a favorite? Ones to avoid? We hold 25 classes a week so durability is just as important as sustainability.

Thanks!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 1 reply

scoliosis

billkeys — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:00:44 GMT

qand body have any ideas of how to help folks with this problem

posted in Teaching Yoga - 12 replies

What can I do?

herecomesthesun — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 17:03:56 GMT

I've recently been diagnosed with tendinitis in my left knee, and even more recently, an "oedème" on the right knee (I think it might be "water on the knee", basically, it hurts like there's a big bruise, but there is no big bruise).
I know that my daily bike riding is definitely the main culprit, but seeing as it's my only mode of transportation, there's not much I can do about that...
I also practice yoga on a daily basis (not long sessions, around 2-3 10 minute sessions through out the day), and since the diagnosis have stopped standing postures and have decreased my daily Sun Salutations to a few times per week.

I'm just wondering if there's anything else I can do: which postures to absolutely avoid, which ones could be beneficial...

Okie dokie, thanks in advance!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 12 replies

teaching people with health problems...

Lynn — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 21:18:54 GMT

Do you (any, all) get a lot of students with health issues? (the usual - high blood pressure, cholesterol... anything that technically limits what they can do yogically) And, then, do you feel like you have enough of an understanding of these things to work with them? or do you trust them, and what their doctor says? or do you send them to someone else?

I feel like I need a medical degree to teach yoga! I'm giving a talk next month at our local hospital (they wouldn't let me teach there, but this is a great way in to my community), and it is mostly senior citizens that attend. Now I know what I've been told as to what is generally safe for people, but I don't think I feel totally comfortable giving them suggestions when I don't know medically how the senior body works or how to handle their common complaints.

I've mostly taught young vibrant folks, but have had a lot of senior citizens coming my way... my brief experience has been that they know their bodies and abilities better than any other age group, however, I've taught more people, in general, that simply follow the instructor assuming they know what is best.

... not totally sure what I'm asking... ah, okay, how about: how much health education do you think you need to teach yoga to people with health problems or the senior population? it's making me want to stop teaching until I have an MD after my name (slight joke)

thanks, lynn

posted in Teaching Yoga - 5 replies

Yoga & Money

Katrina — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 03:52:26 GMT

So, I know all of you want to rush right into this topic considering current conversation, but I want people's honest opinions.

"Making money from Yoga (or anything for that matter) is wonderful as long as your giving more than you're taking"

Agree or no, and why?

posted in Teaching Yoga - 33 replies

Ogden-In the teachers training program....The inappropriate Yoga guy......

aquamarinedreamqueen — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:21:31 GMT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtWcb0bcA-A&feature=related

posted in Teaching Yoga - 1 reply

eV I woudl appreciate knowing more about your retreat

waveyoga — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:00:43 GMT

who taught
how was food
accomodations?
how is your life changed?
thank you

posted in Teaching Yoga - 1 reply

chakra yoga and working with the whole system

Lynn — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 01:49:34 GMT

Hey all! My regular routine with working with my chakras is, other than attempting to understand them, I clear and balance them with a crystal pendulum daily.

But I also practice yoga, and when I work with the chakras via yoga it is soooo much more powerful, BUT I'm not clear AT ALL what the heck this does for myself. I never like to work with just one at a time, I like working with the whole system - because I know they work together. But I am not sure what I am doing for my system by doing things like color meditation, working with the currents, and yoga poses. Does anyone do chakra yoga regularly, what do you experience? What is one doing with their system? What is to be expected results? Is it good to leave them open? I disagree with opening up the liberating current w/o grounding back down.

I guess (chuckle) I'm used to caring and maintaining the chakras - letting them do the work (like I eat and let my body do the work) rather than WORKING WITH THEM. I somehow feel this, manipulating and guiding the chakras, is potent stuff not to be left to the average person.

(I have strengths and weaknesses in each chakra, so I don't need to strenghten a particular chakra as much as particular characteristics...)

Any guidance?

Thanks lovelies!
Lynn

posted in Teaching Yoga - 5 replies

Imperfect yoga teachers

Jed — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:44:09 GMT

Any imperfect yoga teachers out there..Say you were born with a muscular skeletal imbalnce or something... Or anyone out there had an accident or injury, taken up yoga as part of a recovery plan, then found they loved it so much they decided to teach?

posted in Teaching Yoga - 51 replies

Finger Cramps

Liz — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 19:14:05 GMT

I was teaching on Monday night and I had my students doing downward dog at the wall (thumb and index finger pressed into the wall and palms flat on the floor). One of my students came out of it because she said her fingers were cramping up. she told me she types a lot at work. When she does dog pose in the middle of the room, it's not as bad, so I had her do that or hands at the wall (right angle pose) so there was no weight onto her hands.

it sounded like repetitive stress injury. any thoughts?

posted in Teaching Yoga - 10 replies

Yin and Yang yoga

Paulie — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 13:27:41 GMT

Hi, we just joined this group. I wanted to introduce you to Taoist yoga master Paulie Zink. Taoist yoga is an earth honoring tradition born out of the indigenous health practices and spiritual philosophies of ancient China. Taoist principles follow the way of simplicity and living in harmony with nature. Taoist yoga is based on the theory of the five transforming alchemical elements used in Chinese medicine.

Paulie was privately trained for ten years as the sole protege of Chinese martial arts and yoga master Cho Chat Ling. He transmitted to Paulie the arts of Chi Kung, Taoist yoga, and three styles of kung fu. Paulie is a three time international martial arts grand-champion. He is renowned for his fluidity, flexibility and artistry of motion. Paulie is the founder of “Yin” yoga, popularized by Paul Grilley. Paulie has been teaching for 30 years. www.pauliezink.com
In Tao,
Maria Z

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

book on yoga ethics by Donna Farhi

Lynn — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:06:57 GMT

I'm reading Donna's book Teaching Yoga: Exploring the Teacher-Student Relationship on my own, and find it extremely stimulating and important. I would really like to experience it with someone else. Is anyone else reading this, or wants to, or has read it and would like to participate in a tribe discussion of it? I'm currently only on page 27.

posted in Teaching Yoga - 6 replies

yoga in LA

amanda — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 23:59:32 GMT

hello,

i'm stuck in LA (southbay) and was wondering if anyone can recommend any studios, because my yoga experience in this town has been less than ideal. i guess what i am looking for is hatha yoga that is NOT set to rap or any other top-40 style of music . in san francisco i like anusara, iyengar and some vinasysa classes(it really varies on the teacher). i am in the manhattan beach area.

thanks,

amanda

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Business licenses

yogi_scott — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 06:20:59 GMT

Something to watch out for: I have been teaching at a yoga studio for three years. None of the teachers at the studio are "employees". We are all "independent contractor" status (1099s and the such).

Out of the blue with no warning, the city we teach in (South Pasadena) contacted the studio and said that none of the teachers at the studio have business licenses with the city. We now have to get yearly business licenses (~$140) and pay for back years plus late fees (~$40). The studio owner had no clue when she hired us.

I am looking at paying about ~$540 immediately or receiving a citation. This is at a studio where I only teach one class per week...
(Fortunately, I also have a full time day job.)

Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

Blessings,
Scott

posted in Teaching Yoga - 2 replies

Student Knee Issues

Katrina — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 17:25:58 GMT

How would you instruct students with knee issues warm their bodies before moving deeper into practice?
These are students with serious knee problems, a few have had surgery so padding the knee area won't
work. Some cannot put any weight on their knees in a kneeling position. They're ok standing and slightly
flexed while standing, just not kneeling.

These are some Asanas I've steered clear from
- Cat/Cow
- Spinal Balances
- Balasana
- More than 30 seconds in any Virabhadrasana
- Ustrasana
- Utkatasana

I have been warming them in Sunflowers and Moonflowers, cueing not to bend too far in the knees.
A small amount of time in Adho Mukha Svanasana, Uttanasana, Monkey, Utthita Hasta w/ a slight
back bend and standing extended arm lateral lifts. We'll practice just about anything that stems from
a Vira 1 & 2.. Trikonasana, Parsvokonasana, Parsvottanasana (sp?), Salamba Vira 3... so long as it's
not a very advanced posture and easy on the knees.

From there we've been working on leg balances w/ wall option as needed, various twists and most all
seated and supine stretching given it's passive and has options to modify easily.

I'm having a non creative moment trying to figure out how to warm the body properly without stressing
the knees. Maybe some of you could share some ideas that you've used in therapeutic circumstances.
All of the ladies in the class are 45-65. They like gentle yoga because it's easy on the knee joints however...
Too gentle and the body doesn't generate enough heat to move into deep tissue stretching in the course
of an hour's class.

I appreciate any thoughts on the matter :)

Katrina

posted in Teaching Yoga - 12 replies

nausea and trikonasana question

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:28:05 GMT

Hello all -

Wondering if anyone has a thought/experience with a student having nausea related to asanas - specifically utthita trikonasana...

I have a "larger" bodied beginner student who has felt sick to her stomach (sometimes also dizzy) at times during class - noticeable last night during triangle pose. There are three things I can think of:
1) Shift of fluid in the inner ear causing dizziness in turn causing a sick feeling
2) Shift of internal organs creating nausea
3) Release of toxins making her feel ill

Any thoughts in response would be appreciated.

In Peace,

~ E.

posted in Teaching Yoga - 12 replies

Bragging about my new book: Yoga with a Friend

Kimberlee — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:38:09 GMT

I know many people have listings turned off, but I would like to brag about my new book for a moment. Thanks

http://montana.tribe.net/listing/Yoga-with-a-Friend-Develop-trust-communication-strength-and-compassion-when-you-practice-yoga-with-a-partner/montana-us/07fb818f-1981-46a6-ad72-f275b8d73d94

posted in Teaching Yoga - 4 replies

Yoga Teacher's Training in LA

HeatherBug — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 06:48:36 GMT

Know of any good ones? I am thinking about doing it.. what are the basics I need to know before starting?
Thanks!
heather

posted in Teaching Yoga - 3 replies

Experience An India Yoga Odyssey

Dennis — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 01:00:44 GMT

Experience a Transforming India YOGA Odyssey
(February 21 to March 6, 2008)

Just imagine your airplane touching down at the India airport of your choice – Mumbai or Ahmadabad – on Thursday, February 21, 2008. Awaiting you at the airport is your guide, who will escort you by rail or taxi to your hotel accommodations in Surat City, Gujarat State. You will have arrived just in time to take in the World Yoga Championships, either as a participant or as a spectator. If anyone wishes to participate in the Championships the necessary registration forms can be downloaded at www.lifemission.org. The Championships run from February 22 though February 24. (The Championships were primarily founded as a means for encouraging youth worldwide to engage themselves in the ageless science of yoga for the betterment of body, mind and spiritual development in similar fashion that society worldwide encourages youth to participate in common sporting events.)

Following the Championships, you will be escorted to Malav Ashram for a five night stay, which includes three days of “hands on” yogic training under the expert guidance of Acharya Yogendradev, who has taught in North America, Taiwan, and India

And now – the Tours – you will tour the historic spiritual pilgrimage site of Kayavarohan and visit the Brahmeshwar Temple of Lord Lakulish (the 28th incarnation of Lord Shiva). You will spend 5 nights at a beautiful oceanside resort near the city of Div, overlooking the Indian Ocean with its miles of sandy beaches, and visit surrounding points of interest including the renowned Somnath Temple; a lion wildlife reserve, an ayurvedic clinic of a renowned ayurvedic physician where you will be able to observe the natural preparation of ayurvedic medicines and receive a free medical check-up. You will also have the opportunity to visit the temple complex at Rajrajeshwardham, where Lord Lakulish materialized in his divine body on January 29, 2007. Then – another great grace awaits you – you will have the rare opportunity of having darshan with the highly advanced yogi, Swami Rajarshi Muni.*

Now your yoga trip is reaching its end – on March 6, you will be escorted by your guide to your departure airport for your trip home – to reflect on and absorb your many yoga experiences of the past 2 weeks; the multitudes of wondrous Indian sites you've seen; the unmatched hospitality of its people and the many lasting new friendships you've made.

The cost per participant is $ 695.00 USD. This price does not include your transportation costs to and from India, which is entirely your responsibility, as are any required passports, visas etc. This price does include designated tour accommodations and meals in India, and all ground transportation to the Championships and touring sites in India, as well as ground transportation to and from airports at Mumbai or Ahmedabad. Any profits after all costs have been met will be directed to projects for the poor, including schools and hospitals. For further information, go to www.lifemission.org, or email: Acharya Yogendradev, ggvaghela@yahoo.com; or Dennis Konchak, lifema@telus.net; or Hans Splinter, Hsplinter@cogeco.ca.

* Swami Rajarshi Muni is the author of a vast library of nearly 100 titles in four different languages, including ten books in English. Some of the English titles are: Classical Hatha Yoga, Divine Body Through Yoga; Tenets for the Spiritual Life; Infinite Grace (The Story of My Spiritual Lineage), Awakening the Life Force, and Light from Guru to Disciple. For more information, check the Life Mission website www.lifemission.org and www.amazon.com under Rajarshi Muni

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Special offer on upcoming Teacher Training in Santa Rosa

anandaseva — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:06:10 GMT

Ananda Seva Yoga Center presents
200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training

Experience the richness of an authentic yogic lifestyle
Deepen your practice and understanding of yoga
Learn how to bring the healing of yoga to others

February 1-10th & April 18-27th, 2008
in Santa Rosa, California

We are pleased to announce that for the next two weeks - until January 21st - anyone who signs up for our yoga teacher certification will receive a $100 discount off the normal price. If you have ever been interested in deepening your Yoga practice or wished to bring this ancient healing art to others, now is the perfect opportunity! Work trade is also available.

The Ananda Seva Yoga Teacher Training Certification Program is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the breadth and depth of Yogic philosophy and practices as well as an in-depth study of Asanas (yoga postures). The program covers all aspects of yogic practices, including asanas, meditation practices, kundalini, chakras, subtle body, Ayurveda, pranayama, mantra, chanting, yogic philosophy and the history of yoga, anatomy, physiology, teaching methodology, and business practices and ethics. In addition to offering Yoga Teacher certification to all graduates, this training emphasizes the integration of development on all levels – physical, mental and spiritual – through Asanas, meditation, kiirtan, and chanting. After the 10-day sessions of living life as a yogi, students consistently feel a difference in their life.

After graduating from this 200 hour program you will be eligible to become a
Nationally Certified Yoga Teacher registered with Yoga Alliance

Call for More Information (707) 575-0886 or (707) 703-2553
Web brochure: www.anandaseva.org
Email: asm@anandaseva.org

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

need good yoga teacher training in Seattle

waveyoga — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:12:36 GMT

what do you think?
I aminterested in yogadance approach.. I can't adhere to Bikram or Iyengar styles as they are too rough for me.
I wish to teach strength and movement and flexibility.
I love Shiva Rea's work...

Thanky ou

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Yoga Namaskara

ton-ton — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:42:41 GMT

I am inspired and honored to announce the birthing of a beautiful new yoga studio in Santa Rosa we are calling Yoga Namaskara. I have partnered with my brother Mark Mann, a new good friend and yogi of 14 years. In the past, Mark created Hamsa Yoga in Santa Rosa, and he is highly reputable in the SR and yoga community. We have partnered with Five Dragons Martial Arts School (http://www.fivedragons.com) the location and facility is amazing! We have other great teachers that have followings in SR that we are involving in the project. We are creating the schedule now with classes begining January 2nd 2008!

We plan to have monthly workshops, bringing new teachers and arts to the community, so that we may all continue to learn and grow. The first workshop will be February 10th featuring Dr. Maung Gyi and introducing the Bando Yoga systems to the North Bay.

I will be posting the schedule and more info as it develops
my schedule so far:

Morning Yoga
Mon through Fri 8-10 AM
Int, Adv
Silent Self-Practice with Michael

This silent sacred space is held for the yoga self practitioner to blossum among other flowering yogi's. Whether your practice is new or seasoned, whatever your style from Ashtanga to Zen, we welcome you in the spirit of self development, exploration and meditation. We welcome you to our garden.

Intuitive Yoga Flow
Tues, Thurs, Sat 10-11 AM
Beg, Int, Adv
with Michael

This light-hearted practice is focused on the moment, allowing the class rhythms, energy and desires of the present to create the process. Integrating yogic vinyasa, fitness fundamentals and martial arts movements this holistic practice promises to be fun, spontaneous and fullfilling. Please join me in creation and yoga of the Now.

Happy Holydays ya'll!
Many Blessings of Health, Joy and Abundance!
feel free to call or write with any questions, cheers or ideas
323 369 0575
-tt

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

A New Year's Resolution? Free Yoga Classes

tony — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 04:14:29 GMT

Question: Ready for that "New Year's Resolution?"
Answer: ? (Didn't think so).

Well thanks to the "Grotto" at Sports Basement - you have a "free" chance to improve your well being ... ..

)n 01 December 2007, Sports Basement joined together with local yoga teachers to give a yoga gift to the community.
Next yoga class:

• Sunday, 30 December 2007 - 10:30 - 12:00 noon. -
• Yoga Flow - with Annie Leguennec
• http://www.sfgoju.com/

• Sports Basement --San Francisco
• 1590 Bryant St.
San Francisco, CA
(415) 575-3000
http://sportsbasement.com

And due to the very high turnout of yoga students, speed walkers, coach potatoes, Fat Tire Beer Specialist, snowboarders, and then some . . . Starting January 2008, Sports Basement will host free yoga classes each & every Sunday from 1:00 - 2:30pm.

Yoga Teachers of various styles (Iyengar Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Vinyasa, Raja Yoga, Kundalini, Anasara Yoga, Yin Yoga, Power Yoga, Anna Forrest Yoga, etc.) will present their unique connection with the yogic path.

Check back each month and see who’s in the mix – free yoga classes by yoga teachers of all walks of life. Official Website: http://ynottony.com/yoga1.htm

And, if you are a yoga teacher (or a soon to graduate yoga teacher) looking to share your knowledge, practice karma yoga (community service), and put yourself in the public eye, come join in & volunteer your services making yoga affordable for every individual. Pick one Sunday per month . . Teach as many months as you would enjoy doing. . . .

Yoga teachers will receive a $25.00 gift certificate from Sports Basement (per yoga class) & can use the platform as a way of promoting themselves and their unique yoga experience.

Regardless, it's a grand opportunity to start the year on the right path, meet some like minded individuals, see life in a different light, & calm the mind.

* Yoga teachers of all schools of yoga are invited to teach.
* Yoga students of all levels are invited to attend.

For more information or to get your name on the yoga teacher's list - contact: Iyengar Yoga Teacher, tony at:: http://ynottony.com/contact.php

1. Send a brief Yoga Bio
2. Send a list of your available Sundays in January, February & March - 2008.
3. Send a link to your website, personal profile (Myspace, Zaadz, Tribe, Yelp review, etc) or something which speaks highly of you
4. Start advertising your yoga class

Wishing the best of all possible worlds,
tony
http://ynottony.com

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

Drikung Kagyu Global Resources / Tantric Buddhism and Mahamudra Book References /

Sat, 22 Dec 2007 21:53:42 GMT

Drikung Kagyu Global Resources / Tantric Buddhism and Mahamudra Book References /
Vajrasattva Retreat in North Carolina -- Repost from "Tribe : Teaching Yoga"

Keywords: Deity Yoga, global resources for Kagyu lineage Tantric Buddhism and Mahamudra practice, book: "Pearl Rosary The Path of Purification", inner healing yoga, interfaith retreat center, North Carolina, Southern Dharma Retreat Center, Drikung Kagyu lineage, Vajrasattva empowerment and retreat January 2008.

NAMO GURU SRI HASYAVAJRAYE

Homage to Mila Joyous Vajra, King of the Mountain Yogis. For the ordeals you endured, for the sweetness of this profound transmission, and for "a few cotton threads" we thank you from our innermost hearts.

"Knots of the right and left channels [ of the human energy body ] are loosened to their natural state
By Vajrasattva mantra which draws currents in and out of the central channel.
Don't rely on any mental support other than Vajrasattva mantra repetition."
Milarepa to Rechungpa,
quoted in "Drinking the Mountain Stream: New Stories and Songs by Milarepa"

A vast amount of effective Buddhist / yogic teaching is available through the web site for Vajra Publications, specifically for Kagyu lineage tantric Buddhism and Mahamudra practice. See the web site at
http://www.vajrapub.org/

The Drikung lineage is not yet well known in the West( and that WILL change, I promise you ), but it is powerful and available in different parts of the world. See
http://www.dkinstitute.org/
This lineage offers a serious and direct path to inner yogic discipline and primordial awareness yoga ( i.e. Mahamudra ). The Drikung lineage descends from great yogic masters such as Tilopa and Naropa of India, and Marpa and Milarepa of Tibet.

The Drikung lineage is, I will state from personal and professional experience as a yogi and vajrayana guru, entirely authentic, classical, and effective: I personally received two major rounds of empowerment from His Holiness Chetsang Tulku Rinbochay, once in Seattle and again in Hawaii ( Big Island ).

During one of these, a Heruka Vajrasattva in 1987, I experienced energy pouring down through my crown center as though a gallon of milk was literally being poured through the top of my head. How many yoga teachers do you know that can do that? ( I was outwardly and inwardly sick and exhausted at the time from several years of severe difficulty, so that was very much a necessary healing for my magnetic field. Reason enough to receive Vajrasattva empowerment and do the 100,000 recitations, although of course your mileage may vary. )

Understand therefore that HH Chetsang Tulku is a New School guru and a Kagyu guru of the first rank, someone to be respected as much as Vajradhara Kalu Rinbochay and Kyabgon Khentin Tai Situpa ( these being some of my other Kagyu teachers ). He is a very gentle, quiet, generous man, very warm and approachable. I would certainly trust anyone he names vajrayana guru.

I have many primary practice texts of the Drikung Kagyu, which are excellent, and indeed these were among the first key practice texts for Kagyu devayoga sadhana to be published. Since they keep producing more great study and practice materials, I needs must make more ( debit card ) offerings to receive the precious dharma ( although my dharma and yoga book stacks are more than overflowing ). It must be emphasized that these practice texts are generically useful for all New School tantric Buddhists, where New School refers to the Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelugpa Orders of Tibetan Buddhism.

Beyond this, be aware that the Drikung school, like the Karma Kagyu school of vajrayana, incorporates a substantial amount of Old School ( Nyingma and Great Perfection ) teaching and practice. For example, their Phowa ( Consciousness Transference At Time Of Death ) does not derive from the Kagyu lineage Six Yogas of Naropa, but rather from an Old School Treasure Teaching ( terma ).

As this letter goes out to a diverse and broad set of audiences, I will say a few words on the Kagyu lineage, on deity yoga, and Mahamudra. In short, here are some truly wonderful books for you:
Book 1) "Drinking the Mountain Stream: New Stories and Songs by Milarepa", by Lama Kunga Rimpoche and Brian Cutillo. This book is extraodinarily good as an introduction and in providing key teaching/ precept songs which are both poetic and intuitive.

Book 2) "The Garland of Mahamudra Practices", by Khenpo Konchog Gyaltsen and Katherine Rogers. This is a short summary of Cakrasamvara / Vajrayogini deity yoga and Mahamudra awareness yoga translated by a Drikung abbot from the writings of Kunga Rinchen, the Fifteen Lineage Holder of the Drikung Kagyu transmission. It is remarkably clear teaching on the essentials of New School vajrayana practice.

Book 3) "Clarifying the Natural State", by Dakpo Tashi Namgyal ( translation by the priceless western scholar Eric Pema Kunsang ). This practice summary for the primordial awareness yoga of Mahamudra is held to be "preeminent" and "indispensible" by the great modern scholar-yogi Khenchen Thrangu Rinbochay. 'Nuff said.

Book 4) "Becoming Vajrasattva; the Tantric Path of Purification", by [ Lama ] Thubten Yeshe, 2nd edition. A remarkably useful retreat and teaching manual on Vajrasattva. With this and Vajrasattva empowerment one can practice the indispensible deity of Purification, Vajrasattva / Diamond Being.

Now, there is going to be, in early January, a Vajrasattva empowerment and retreat to be given by a Drikung abbot ( Khenpo Tsultrim Tenzin Rinpoche ) in North Carolina ( Southern Dharma Retreat Center ). Being given by an abbot, it could possibly be a major empowerment (i.e. a "four-banger", a four level catur-abhisekha empowerment ) for Vajrasattva, although I do not know. Even a medium level "three banger" Vajrasattva empowerment is really quite good.

If you live near there, farther from the world-class vajrayana empowerment venues, this is a truly great opportunity. Vajrasattva is the ultimate swiss army knife of tantric practice.
- If you are a healer, or someone in need of deep healing, this is for you.
- If you are someone oriented towards "higher consciousness", you can take this as a primary practice.
- If you have chronic psychic or mental or environmental discord, then Vajrasattva and the included Vajrapani ( Thunderbolt Holder ) are ofgreat importance for inner cleansing.
- If you are a western witch who wants to do goddess practice, you can take this transmission and thereby fully engage all the Twenty One Taras.
- If you wish to practice any of the standard Buddhist deities, such as Manjusri, Avalokitesvara, Amitabha, Vajrapani and so forth, you can do so on the basis of this one empowerment and a compendium of deity yogas, which is

Book 5) "Pearl Rosary The Path of Purification ( Sadhanas and Commentaries )" available from Vajra Publications. See
http://shop.vajrapub.org/product.sc?categoryId=1&productId=79

From that web page:
"Pearl Rosary The Path of Purification
"The content of this text is primarily meant for people who are far away and don’t have the opportunity to engage in Dharma practice in the presence of the teacher. The book itself is a representation of the teacher, and therefore is meant to help one’s Dharma practice. The text describes the methods of visualization and how to incorporate practice into our day to day life experience. .... The visualization of these deities is mainly concerned with the practices of tantrayana and mantrayana, which are the highest forms of practice. The path of visualization is very powerful and if properly engaged in, it is capable of transforming our life within a single moment.
"By engaging in this kind of practice, infinite clarity of mind is achieved, and through such power, we are able to purify our ordinary body and manifest the body of the deity. Likewise, we are able to purify ordinary speech, and manifest wisdom speech. Furthermore, we are able to purify the deluded ordinary mind, and realize the wisdom mind.
From the foreword by His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche"

The point is that it is much more direct and useful to take a single encompassing empowerment, such as the Vajrasattva, than to go here and there for smaller blessing empowerments. The Vajrasattva is of crucial importance in all schools of Indo-Tibetan vajrayana, AND at all levels, up through and including Great Seal and Great Perfection practice. I have therefore placed a short basic teaching ( under tribe member "k t" photo "Hundred Syllable mantra" ) for you.

This practice is really pervasive. You can get full Vajrasattva through many differently named transmissions, such as Cakrasamvara, Hevajra, Kalacakra, Padmasambhava, Tsik Sum Ne Dek/ Hitting The Three Essential Points, Vajrakilaya and so forth. I myself have received sixty one full Vajrasattva empowerments, often through primary lineage holders, and have completed a quarter million of the long Vajrasattva mantra. . . and intend to do more, because of the great purifying and empowering effects of this mantra and sadhana.

A story: some twelve years ago I was in Vancouver taking Native American yogic teachings from a Tsalagi ( Cherokee ) teacher named Ven. Dhyani Ywahoo. In addition to being a Tsalagi teacher of family lineage, she is also a Tibetan lama of the Nyingma lineage through HH Dudjom Rinbochay, and a Drikung Kagyu lama through HH Chetsang Tulku Rinbochay. Her young son decided to run through the teaching hall, so she called out to him, "Hey, wouldn't you like to DO SOME VAJRASATTVA PRACTICE? That was her way of telling him to settle down. So parents, this is a good practice for the kids. It's really one of the best gifts one could give a child or children, for their entire life.

I thank the Drikung lineage and Vajra Publications, HH Chetsang Tulku Rinbochay, Khenpo Tsultrim Tenzin Rinpoche, and so forth. With abiding gratitude I dedicate the merit of sharing this teaching on Kagyu dharma to the Drikung teachers, all the Kagyu teachers, and those who take up these quintessential liberating practices for the benefit of all our relations.

May the Mahamudra transmission remain wide open like the sky!
May the Mahamudra transmission remain pervasive like the earth!
May the Mahamudra practitioners remain unshakeable like mountains!
May awareness remain shining like a flame!
May awakefullness remain lucid like a crystal!

OM AH NAMO GURU VAJRA DHRIKA MAHAMUDRA SIDDHI PHALA HUM
OM AH NAMO GURU PRAJNABHADRA MAHAMUDRA SIDDHI PHALA HUM
OM AH NAMO GURU JNANASIDDHI MAHAMUDRA SIDDHI PHALA HUM
OM AH NAMO GURU DHARMAMATI MAHAMUDRA SIDDHI PHALA HUM
OM AH NAMO GURU VAJRA DHVAJA MAHAMUDRA SIDDHI PHALA HUM. . . . .
NAMO NAMAHA

With best wishes to all at Southern Dharma Retreat Center, and best wishes to all of you who are willing to go forward in authentic yogic bodhisattva practice, this brief note is written quite unofficially, yet in partial fulfillment of serious formal teaching responsibilities.

Sarva mangalam! Siddhi rastu! Samaya . . .

K T, inner medical tantrika and dagger priest

Original event notice etc. follows:

" Southern Dharma Retreat Center is an interfaith retreat center which hosts meditation retreats representing the world's various spiritual traditions. Retreat teachers are experienced and recognized in their own traditions. All retreats have meditation, contemplation, and silence as underlying threads. Between teacher-led retreats, individual private retreats may be arranged.

Located part way up one of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina, isolated and forested, Southern Dharma provides a comfortable, secluded gathering place removed from everyday distractions. Retreats create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, peace, and opening to the truths within the heart. "

Contact information for SDRC:

Southern Dharma Retreat Center
1661 West Road
Hot Springs NC 28743
828-622-7112

southerndharma@earthlink.net

www.southerndharma.org

Registration Information at
http://www.southerndharma.org/RegistrationInformation.htm

-- In Drikung-Sangha@yahoogroups.com, Hun Lye <HLye@...> wrote:

Southern Dharma Retreat Center
Hot Springs, North Carolina

Presents

"Vajrasattva Retreat: Empowerment, Teachings and Practice"
January 1-4, 2008
Cost: $180 (includes meals and housing, offering to teacher is
according to one's abilities)
For registration info:
http://www.southerndharma.org/RetreatSchedule2007.htm or contact
Michael Campbell at 828-622-7112 or southerndharma@earthlink.net

*Retreat Description*
For four days of the retreat Khenpo Tsultrim Tenzin Rinpoche,
co-spiritual director of the Tibetan Meditation Center in Frederick,
MD will lead us in Vajrasattva meditation, a purification practice
from the Vajrayana path of Buddhism, as practiced in Tibet. The main
meditation practice in the Vajrayana path is deity yoga. With this
technique one first visualizes a being with a perfect form of a
deity. Then one creates a perfect auditory note, for example "OM,"
then one imagines a perfectly clear luminous mind. In the practice one
is empowered to first imagine all of these as a mentally "created"
being - outside oneself, then one merges with that being and imagines
oneself to have those physical qualities of perfection. Then one chants the
appropriate mantra and acquires "perfect speech." Finally one
dissolves the visualization into emptiness, thus realizing the
"perfect mind."

In doing this practice one comes to see that one's very nature is now
and always has been the same as the Buddha's - that is,
pure,uncontaminated - uncreated emptiness and luminosity. It has just
been tarnished by one's unskillful actions in the past. The
Vajrasattva practice can help to remove the tarnish so that our true
nature comes into focus. Khenpo Rinpoche will explain this further
during the first session on the evening of the 1st. On the following
morning he will give the empowerment that allows you to do this
practice on your own. For the rest of the retreat we will alternate
between doing the Vajrasattva practice, doing silent meditation and
receiving dharma talks about the Path to Enlightenment as embodied in
the Six Perfections or Paramitas.

*Khenpo Rinpoche's Bio*
Khenpo Rinpoche was born in southeastern Tibet 1970. At the age of 14
he took his monk's vows and soon after began his Buddhist Studies at
Samye Monastery, the first monastery ever built in Tibet.
He was an outstanding student from the start and excelled in all of
his subjects. In 1987, he traveled to India to enroll in the Drikung
Kagyu Institute at Jangchub Ling in Dehra Dun.

After finishing his course work he spent three years teaching lower
classes in the monastic college. He was awarded the title "Khenpo" in
1998 and then spent another three years teaching Buddhist philosophy
at the Institute. He has completed the Ngondro, Chakrasamvara and
other deity-yoga practices in retreat. Khenpo arrived at the Tibetan
Meditation Center in April 2001 to become one of the Spiritual
Co-directors of the Center. He also began his study of English at that
time and is now
quite fluent in it. He has been teaching at the Tibetan Meditation
Center, The Garchen Institute and at other Drikung Kagyu centers in
the US since then.

*Southern Dharma Retreat Center*

Southern Dharma Retreat Center is an interfaith retreat center which
hosts meditation retreats representing the world's various spiritual
traditions. Retreat teachers are experienced and recognized in their
own traditions. All retreats have meditation, contemplation, and
silence as underlying threads. Between teacher-led retreats,
individual private retreats may be arranged.

Located part way up one of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North
Carolina, isolated and forested, Southern Dharma provides a
comfortable, secluded gathering place removed from everyday
distractions. Retreats create an atmosphere of quiet reflection,
peace, and opening to the truths within the heart.

Facilities include the meditation hall, lodge, and tent platforms.
The lodge, which can accommodate twenty-three, has a dining room,
kitchen, small library, double bedrooms on the second floor, and a
dormitory room on the uppermost floor. All retreatants are housed on
the premises. Four tent platforms are located adjacent to a small
mountain stream with many waterfalls. Tent platforms may be reserved
but we are unable to take reservations for rooms in the lodge although
any preference indicated on the registration form will be taken into
consideration. Rooms are assigned first on the basis of gender, then
for any special medical reasons, and finally in the order of
registration. Only for retreats with small enrollment is a single room
available.

There are several trails -- along the stream, affording mountain
views, and one to the top of the mountain.

Dana is a Pali word (the language spoken in India during the time of
the Buddha about 400 BCE) meaning generosity. Teachers are
reimbursed by Southern Dharma only for their travel. At the end of a
retreat, retreatants are offered the opportunity to offer
contributions (anonymous if they prefer) to the teacher. Southern
Dharma Retreat Center also relies on financial support through
charitable contributions.

--- End forwarded message ---

posted in Teaching Yoga - 1 reply

Yoga Teachers Gathering, Aug 15-18, Vermont

Bald Mountain Retreat, — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 21:55:18 GMT

Attend an informal long-weekend with your colleagues this summer.
Recreate, rest, rejuvenate, renew, network, learn, enjoy.
Bring some old friends and make some new ones.
Sit around the campfire beneath the starry sky.
Group activities and events.
Or come for the day.
Vermont
Free.

August 15-18, 2008
Contact us for registration details, please.
Spread the word!

posted in Teaching Yoga - 0 replies

yoga for MS?

Ellen — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 15:37:33 GMT

A friend was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis not too long ago and has asked me for advice on yoga to help her condition. She's still active and is partially controlling her condition with medication, but still has muscle spasms and stiffness. I know almost nothing about MS, and she lives several states away, so I can't observe her in person. Can any of you offer any advice or insight as to what might be helpful for her?

Obviously I'm referring her to her doctor to make sure any advice I give her is appropriate and safe. But I do want to help her -- even a yoga DVD recommendation would be great. She lives in the middle of nowhere, so although she's looking for a yoga studio, she's not sure she'll be able to find one.

Thanks everyone.

posted in Teaching Yoga - 2 replies

If You Could Only Have One Book On Yoga

Dennis — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 06:48:51 GMT

If one could only have one book on yoga, the new book, Classical Hatha Yoga by Swami Rajarshi Muni would likely be it. This is the only book on yoga the practitioner or teacher would ever need. It is probably the most comprehensive book ever written on the subject of yoga and it is written by a most highly advanced Yogi and is based upon his own intensely deep personal practice . Check it out on Amazon's Inside the Book Program, where you can actually see its contents as well as its summary. It can also be purchased at the Kripalu Book Store.

posted in Teaching Yoga - 24 replies