...cs and joints. The muscles are stretched out releasing the poisons and toxins in the body. Pranayam (breathing exercises) help flush the lung tissues, allowing an increased oxygen level to enter the bloodstream, which fights off infection and helps the body heal itself.

On a physical level, yoga will increase strength, flexibility and grace. But equally important, yoga exercise will reduce stress levels by the process of healing and cleansing the mind along with healing the body. Yoga views the body as having multiple levels or layers, and the various exercises and postures help create an energy flow throughout the mind and body.

All of the stress that we are subject to results in a great deal of physical tension in your body. Yoga can reduce this stress and tension level and eliminate to...more

The Purpose of Yoga - Aging Gracefully

...often ages first. If we never take calculated risks from middle age on, we have played it safe for the rest of our lives.

Now, I am not suggesting that seniors should start sky diving, surfing, and hand gliding, next week, but the in the twilight of their lives, people often regret the opportunities they did not take advantage of. The thrill of a challenge makes life worth living. A calculated risk is a breath of fresh air.

For example: The seniors who take Chair Yoga are the mavericks of their time. Most of them did not have the opportunity to receive Yoga instruction as children, but they are not afraid to participate and receive the benefits. Now, that is an inspiration to the rest of us.

Copyright 2007 Paul Jerard / Aura Publicationsmore

Yoga Teachers Lead by Example (Part 3)

...Behavior toward neighboring Yoga schools, Yoga teachers, and their students, should be cordial. Like the old saying goes, If you do not have anything good to say, do not say anything at all. When we speak of other Yoga teachers, or former Yoga teachers, in a hostile manner, what do we teach our students?

Unfortunately, Yoga teachers are human and behavior is not always optimum. Show respect toward neighboring ashrams by letting the director, master teacher, or guru, know about your events - in the form of a letter or invitation. Do not post your events on their doors, on their cars, and on telephone poles nearby their ashram.

Do not encourage your Yoga students to tear down ...more

Yoga for Self-Confidence

...that does not make the situation worse. Do the best you can do and stop wasting your life worrying about the past. A life lesson always contains value, but you must have insight to create a positive situation from it.

Guilt is a burden, which we create, but we are not required to carry it around for life. You must forgive yourself and try your best to forgive others. When you forgive yourself, and others, you gain freedom (Samadhi). Freedom from hate will become devotion (Bhakti) to higher causes and to God.

When you give to anyone, or to any charity, channel the positive energy of giving into self-forgiveness. When you give to others, you will feel gratification and worthy of forgiveness. If you cannot afford to give, you should help others through Karma Yoga (selfless service). It is still giving to visit a person who needs companionship or to help your...more

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