Resolution time

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!Instead of going with a corny 2008 rhyme, I decided to reprint the article I published in a local paper regarding some of the benfits of yoga. My contact info is at the end. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Happy reading!

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Yoga: Is it Just for Women?
When you hear someone say, “I take yoga,” what is the first thing you usually hear? Most likely, it is “wow, you must be flexible!” There is a misconception that Yoga is a form of exercise geared toward women to increase flexibility. It’s time to burst that bubble. Yoga is for more than just women. Some of the most respected Yoga practitioners in the world are male. It is also much more than an exercise; it is a way of life, an attitude. Will you gain flexibility? Absolutely. However, the benefits of Yoga have been proven to be much greater than simply allowing oneself to bend into pretzel-like positions. Yoga proves to be an excellent muscle toner that provides fluid movements of the joints, ligaments and tendons and aids in resisting stress and detoxifying the body. Yoga practitioners enjoy better posture, resulting in proper functioning of the organs and digestive system. Proper practice increases lung capacity, eases arthritis and can cure varicose veins. Studies have shown that Savasana, everyone’s favorite position of resting tranquilly on your back, can reduce high blood pressure, lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and calms the nervous system. All these benefits can serve as a base for an exercise regime including weights, aerobics, Pilates, swimming, or whatever it is you enjoy; or you can dedicate yourself to full Yoga practice. The important part is to start with an instructor, and not with a book or video. Yoga is not a do-it-yourself kit. It is an oral tradition passed down thousands of years. It is extremely important to have the guidance of an experienced instructor who can tailor positions to your specific needs and abilities. Find an instructor and setting, be it studio or private, who you are comfortable with. The goal of any instructor should be to assist you in opening and guiding you along your path, not simply reaching a destination. Hatha Yoga is a great place to begin. The movements are soft, patient, and deliberate. But don’t fool yourself; you will be challenged and you will sweat. If you are experienced and are looking for a more vigorous session, Vinyasa Flow may be more suitable for you. These are only two of the many forms of Yoga offered. No matter which form you choose to practice, you will become more in tune with your body, reap multiple health benefits and enjoy life more! So gentlemen (not just ladies), buy yourself a sticky-mat and join others in the fantastic journey of balancing your mind, body and spirit.

Contributed by Kimberly Bradshaw, Yoga Instructor and DeepBendYoga proprietor. Email her at kimberlyyogini@yahoo.com

Happy Holidays

Have a safe and joyous holiday! Don't forget to practice :-)

Shanti

Kimberly

Peace

Feeling hectic? Try this one; OM SHANTI, SHANTI, SHANTI (Om, peace, peace, peace). Shanti is repeated three times as an interpretation of peace in the body, mind and spirit. Be mindful when you chant. Say this as many times as you need to; until you feel yourself release. You can use prayer beads as a guide if you'd like and repeat the chant 108 times. Best wishes and Shanti. Kimberly

Mantras

Yes, chanting. When I first began practicing yoga, I thought "the chanting part" was kind-of weird. It's ok. Give yourself time to open up to the idea. If you are in a class and they are chanting and you don't feel comfortable, simply listen. Feel the vibrations and at some point you may find it turns into music. The point is to help you focus, to prepare you for meditation, to turn the outside world off. Here is one for you to try on your own:

OM NAMAH SHIVYA (pronounced:aum nahmah shi vi ya)
Generally translated it means "I bow to Shiva, the Inner Self or Consciousness" further translating to "I bow to my inner self". It is a very powerful mantra. You are honoring who you are and that which you are capable to become. Many miracles have come to individuals after this chant. Who knows. I would love to hear your stories. ***Never chant a mantra without full understanding of its meaning. Shanti

Tree Pose Balance

Just a little tip; whether you have your foot to the opposing ankle or can raise it all the way up to your inner thigh, make sure you are pushing your knee out and back. This will help you a great deal to maintain balance. Once you feel balanced, reach your arms either straight up & clasp your hands or into a 'v' shape and breath. Those beautiful trees need no decoration! :-)