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Showing posts from August, 2011

Valerie Goodman -- Yoga Guide

Valerie Goodman -- Yoga Guide

Yoga and the Adrenal Glands

Let's use our yoga practice to learn a little more about anatomy. I must confess, I was never that interested in science when I was younger. As I have gotten a little older, experienced a few personal medical challenges, noticed subtle changes each year and the desire to learn has been ignited. Practicing yoga since I was 41 has made a significant impact on my physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being. Six years later, I am in the best shape I have ever been...ever. So, with that said, let's see what is going on with this ancient practice of yoga. Last article gave a synopsis of the seven chief glands. To keep it simple, (good philosophy, by the way) the first gland to be addressed is the adrenal gland. The adrenal gland is right above each kidney. Their primary function is to release hormones in response to stress. These stress hormones are cortisol, epinephrine and aldosterone. Cortisol and epinephrine get the heart to beat faster, gets the digesti

Work those glands!

The thought of exercise typically implies the strengthening of muscles, burning calories, sweating, making the exterior of the body fit and the heart healthy. Now, most exercises can and do accomplish these issues. But, do you think that is all that really needs some attention? Take your concept of fitness a little deeper. You will see the fitness of even the smallest of "parts" make an impact on the bigger "parts" of the body. These little "parts" are your glands and they play a big role in how you feel and function. First of all, what is a gland? The definition is: "An organ or group of specialized cells in the body that produces and secretes a specific substance, such as a hormone." Translated, the glands in the body release the chemicals that get other internal parts to work at the optimal level. Unhealthy glands, such as the thyroid, have a major effect on your overall well-being. The practice of yoga actually gives it some attention tha

The Pursuit of Happiness

"No one has the right to consume happiness without producing it." ~Helen Keller So much is said in so few words. If you are not familiar with the law of give and take, it is an important one to know and truly practice. The law of give and take is simple. In order to receive, you have to give. The mindset of expecting to always receive without giving back will backfire at some point. It really does not matter if it is physical or emotional aspects that are involved. You cannot take what you do not give...including happiness. At this time of turmoil in numerous aspects ranging from money, health of the human race and the planet, and fear of violence, there is something important for YOU to do. Take responsibility for keeping the law of give and take in balance in your life. If you are not happy, make the effort to show kindness to someone else...without expectations of a "payback" from them. What you give comes back around at the right time for you. Step outside

Yoga Lifestyle

The physical benefits of yoga are a mere fraction of the true reward of practicing. It does take time (and practice) to "see" or feel the changes emerge. Patience and perseverance will pay off. The practice of yoga will even help you become more patient if that is an issue. Here is a short clip from my You Tube channel explaining more about a lifestyle of a yogi: http://youtu.be/mwOT7YUSPtc Enjoy your day and your practice!