...It is true that there are some Hatha classes, which resemble "exercise classes." There has been some mixing of pilates and Yoga, within the past two decades. In the West, some styles of Hatha Yoga, teach very little about Pranayama, Mantra, japa, Mudras, Bandhas, Meditation, Shatkarmas, Doshas, the Subtle Body, the History of Yoga, or Yogic Philosophy.

As a result, some Yoga classes have become more like calisthenics classes. So, why has Yoga changed so much, when it left India? Why is the practice of Bhakti so popular in India, and is scarcely known in the West?

Quite simply, Yoga has transcended cultures, and it is going through another evolutionary phase. Many people "try" Yoga, but the serious practitioner continues to practice for decades. A Yogi, or Yogini, has decided to continue his or her practice for life, because of the benefits.

When we are young, we e...more

Eating Disorders And The Use Of Yoga In Prevention And Treatment

... promote a positive view of your own body. These are crucial factors with eating disorders, and it has been shown that the application of yoga can significantly increase recuperation and healing. Through the elimination of self judgment, yoga establishes a strong connection between mind and body. This, of course, is the natural state of wellness. By re-establishing this strong connection, mind and body will work in harmony to repair the damage.

Regular yoga practice will increase the overall fitness level of the human body, improving the immune system and giving it a good chance of fighting illnesses. This is helpful with Anorexia, for example, because the sufferer's body will experience lower energy levels, and the condition reduces bone density.

In dealing with eating disorders, the yogic system identifies them as a problem related to the first chakra. There are...more

The Ashtanga Yoga Method

...Ashtanga is a Sanskrit word, which is created by joining two words, ashta and anga. Ashta means eight. Anga is translated as limbs or steps. Ashtanga Yoga refers to the eight aspects of Yoga practice. Yoga is union. Yoga is a tangible method of attaining liberation from suffering and ultimate realization of supreme consciousness.

The eight aspects of Yoga practice are Yama(restraints), Niyama(observances), Asana(posture), pranayama(breath control), Pratyahara(withdrawal of the senses), Dharana(concent...more

How could a Shy Person Become a Yoga Teacher?

...The calling to teach Yoga classes can reach into any of us, but what about obstacles which hold each of us back. A shy person may want to become a Yoga teacher, but how can he or she develop the voice of a Yoga teacher?

For an aspiring Yoga teacher, shyness is like a prison which stops him or her from lifes rewards. This person knows what to do, but feels serious anxiety when having to address a person or when having to speak in front of a group.

So what is a shy, but aspiring Yoga teacher to do, when confronted with this impasse? Should he or she give up the dream of becoming a certified Yoga teacher? Some trainers of Yoga teachers would agree, but the truth is there is a solution for the shy, but aspiring Yoga teacher.

Luckily, we are surrounded by recording device...more

New York Yoga Coupon Book