Yoga Nuggets

Funny how a lot of things come full circle in life. It may not be exactly the same as before, but what you used to do or know can be experienced with a new perspective. In this case, I am talking about blocks. As a kid, it was fun to play with the blocks and use your imagination in creating something. Take that memory of creativity with the blocks and bring it to your yoga practice. I used the blocks when I started practicing yoga; however,I stopped using them when I thought I did not need them anymore. Several years of practice later...I've realized, just like the blocks I played with as a kid, they're not just for building a foundation. The best use of the block is to experience a new sensation of balance, utilization of a different muscle, and the re-ignition of the creative source in the mind. I thought I was too experienced (old...in kid mindset)to use blocks. I was wrong. Here are some ways to use those blocks in your practice. Once you get started, you are destined to di...

Yoga, like religion, has been around a very long time. The two are not linked; therefore, do not assume a connection. This is a comparison of two practices with deep roots in the history of mankind. A tree is the perfect image to compare them to. Both have a beginning somewhere; however, along the way, branches have extended in numerous directions. The common invisible thread shared is that all branches reach for the Ultimate Source that nourishes them. Each branch names itself and declares what makes it different and possibly better than the branch right next to it. Thus, the emergence of conflict within a united entity appears. In the yoga "tree", a lot of different styles of practice have and continue to emerge. Each yoga branch has a slightly or significant difference from the others; however, each is still a practice. The beauty of the tree is that it gives choices for the "leaves" (individuals) to grow from. In the relatively short time that I have practiced y...

The thyroid gland is located on the lower portion of your neck and is somewhat shaped like a butterfly. It produces hormones that are critical for metabolism, growth, and energy levels. Perhaps you have known someone who has a thyroid that is either under-active or over-active. One state (hypo-active) can result in difficulty in losing weight and feeling lethargic. The opposite extreme state (hyper-active) results in everything speeding up...and, not in a good way. There are a myriad of catalysts that can cause a problem with the thyroid; therefore, always seek medical care from a physician if you have persistent symptoms. It is wise to blend the best of the East and the West in maintaining good health. With that said, what does yoga do for the thyroid? Just like the philosophy, "move it or lose it", applies for all the other body parts...the same is for the thyroid gland. Thyroid problems most commonly manifest in women over the age of 50. Hormones are changing and it...

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...

Yoga is whatever you need it to be each moment of your practice. If you need a boost in your energy, an active flow of moves and breathing can ignite that spark within you. If your body needs to let go of tension, a more passive practice of stillness in poses can guide the body and mind to release. Physically, yoga will help you learn the power of persistence and the strength of surrender. Awareness is the key that unlocks the body and mind. Once you are truly aware of where you are now, the yoga practice will link the parts together. This link of movement, breath and awareness will take you where you need to be. The magic of a yoga lifestyle is that it opens up so much space far beyond the physical realm. It opens cracks that allow your Light to become more visible to you and others. To better understand the concept of "cracks", listen to the words of Leonard Cohen's heartfelt song, Anthem. The initially unseen Light that becomes apparent will ignite revelations of chang...

This is just a short clip on a few yoga moves to help expand the rib cage, help the spine and open the heart. Peace~

Bridge pose is great for working the quadriceps, abdomen, and lower back. It can be sometimes difficult for those with knee issues. A great alternative to try is doing your "bridge" on the wall. It puts less stress on those ligaments around and within the knee. To do this: Position yourself around a foot away from the wall on your back with the feet pressed against the wall. Your shins should be parallel to the floor, so adjust accordingly. With feet pressed against wall, lift pelvis up like you would in bridge and adjust so that the shins remain parallel to ceiling. Keep your head on the ground, but tuck that chin to the throat to work that thyroid gland. You can use your hands to press against the lower back to deepen or stabilize your position. Stay in it for 5 to 10 good breaths and come down. Repeat as desired. When done, counter the pose by bringing knees to chest and rock side to side. Great inversion with less stress on the knees...but still working that ...