Definition Archives - Heal your health yourself

Definition, Benefits and Technique • Healyourhealthyourself

HYHY Team — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 01:48:05 +0000

We typically think yoga is a physical practice that involves various poses and breathing techniques. Did you know that the mindful repetition of a word or sound is also a type of yoga? The chanting of sacred sound vibrations is known as mantra yoga, japa, or mantra meditation. This ancient practice is one of the most powerful ways to clear your mind, focus your concentration and calm your emotions. This type of yoga is a simple yet potent practice that can be easily learned and only requires a minimum of 15 minutes a day to practice.

What is a mantra?

A mantra is a word, or a series of words chanted aloud or silently to invoke spiritual qualities. The Sanskrit root word ‘manas’ translates as mind, and ‘tra’ means instrument or tool. It is commonly translated to mean “an instrument or tool for the mind” or “that which when reflected upon, brings liberation.”

Mantras are mystical formulas of sacred syllables, which were originally revealed to the Rishis (seers or sages) in the deepest states of meditation. They are one of the earliest components of yoga and are possibly the first type of meditation that was developed. The most popular mantra is Om or Aum, and it is often used as the seed mantra in longer chants. They are usually composed in the language of Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, and Prakrit, or sometimes in Hindi or Gujrati. They are believed to have magical powers for healing, protection, prosperity, but in mantra yoga they are used primarily for spiritual development.

What is mantra yoga?

Mantra yoga is a meditation practice that focuses on chanting sacred syllables along with conscious breathing and a meditative focus to quiet the mind, cultivate spiritual energy, and create states of enlightenment. The practice of chanting a mantra is considered one of the easiest yet powerful forms of meditation.

Mantra yoga is the ancient science of sound vibration. It is based on the belief that everything we do involves energy; our thoughts, words, actions and emotions are all part of a larger energetic field called prana, or life force. As we think or do something, we send out a wave of energy into the world. When we repeat a mantra over and over again, we focus that energy inward, allowing us to tap into our deeper selves and gain greater mastery over our minds.

In mantra yoga, the practitioner chants a particular mantra repeatedly to create a meditative state. Chanting these sacred sounds helps focus the mind on the meaning and vibration of the words. As a practitioner’s awareness revolves around the repetition of the sacred sound, its pronunciation and its meaning, a psychic energy is cultivated, which can be used for spiritual purposes and to connect with the divine.

The power of pratyahara

By focusing on the repetition of sound vibrations, our attention and focus draw inwards to achieve the difficult state of pratyahara. When practitioners are completely focused on the sound of the mantra, they’re immersed in the experience of being present in the moment. This allows practitioners to go deep into a meditative state in which they have no awareness of anything else around them. Easily creating a state of pratyahara allows yogis to enter deeper and deeper states of consciousness without being distracted by external stimuli.

Practices of mantra yoga

The main practices of mantra yoga are japa, kirtan, and community chanting. The meditation technique of mindfully reciting mantras is called japa, or mantra meditation. Kirtan is a devotional practice that involves call and response singing of mantras set to music. While an individual kirtan may vary, the practice typically involves a leader who chants and a group of people who repeat their chants. Community chanting is often part of a ceremony or used in the invocation or closing of a yoga practice.

Types of chanting

Mantras can be spoken aloud, softly whispered, or said silently in the mind. Vaikhari Japa is reciting the mantra aloud as a way to practice the pronunciation, deepen concentration and connect with the vibration of the words. Upamsu Japa is whispering or humming the mantra quietly as a way to cultivate peace and harmony. Manasika Japa is internal chanting, or chanting within the mind only, and requires a great level of focus and attention. The ancient yogis tell us that silent chanting is 100,000 times more effective than chanting out loud.

Japa meditation technique

Finding a teacher who specializes in mantra is preferred, but this may be difficult to find. Many teachers offer classes, workshops, retreats and other opportunities to learn about mantra. You might find a local teacher through word of mouth, or you could sign up for a class online.

While you can chant mantras just about anywhere, anytime, and for any length of time, there are structured types of chanting and traditional rules. If you choose to learn japa by yourself, it is important to fully understand the techniques and methods before starting.

To start, sit in a comfortable position, with the eyes closed, and slowly repeat the word or phrase silently or aloud. Pay careful attention to the speed and rhythm of your chanting, the correct pronunciation, aim, and esoteric meaning of the mantra. Allow the mind to be focused on the mantra, letting the thoughts go and maintaining a slow and deep breath.
A mala (string of beads) can be used to count a series of 108 repetitions of the mantra. Not only is a mala is a way to keep track of the number of times you recite the mantra, but the tactile sensation of touching the beads improves. your focus and concentration.
When your attention wanders away from the mantra, gently bring your focus back to the sound, your breath and the tactile sensation of the mala beads. Continue for several minutes. It is preferred to finish the meditation at the end of a cycle of 108 operations.

Kirtan meditation technique

In kirtan, the mantra is chanted along with a musical accompaniment. This helps to focus the mind and create a more powerful effect than if you were simply repeating the mantra alone. When choosing a song to accompany your mantra, look for songs that are uplifting and inspiring. Songs with lyrics that encourage positive thinking will have a greater impact than those that are negative or depressing. If possible, choose a song that has a strong beat and a simple melody, so it’s easier to follow along with. A good rule of thumb is to pick a song that you enjoy listening to and that makes you feel happy.

Benefits of mantra yoga

Like prayer and affirmation, the repetitious use of mantra can have powerful effects on the mind, body, spirit, and emotions. Mentally, mantra yoga increases concentration and improves memory and focus. Physically, japa meditation lowers the heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and activates the relaxation response to allow healing and rejuvenation to occur. It also builds self-confidence and self-empowerment, reduces stress and balances the emotions. Spiritually, mantras are said to dissolve one’s bad karma, produce jnana (wisdom) and are considered one of the many yogic paths towards self-realization. A daily yoga practice is recommended to receive the most benefits.

Practice tips

Focus on the feeling of the mantra resonating in your body.
Be mindful of where the sound vibrations resonate in your head, chest, and body.
Let the mantra flow naturally without forcing it.
Don’t get caught up in thinking about what you should think or how you should pronounce the mantra. Just do your best with pure intentions.
When you feel distracted, gently bring your awareness back to the mantra.
Start with a mantra that is simple and short. Add more complexity, like chanting the Gayatri mantra, after you are comfortable with the practice.
At first, practice every day for 3-5 minutes. Then slowly increase your time as you get comfortable with the practice.
The best Time to practice is the early morning or evening time
Pay attention to the breath and mantra to increase your focus.
When you finish repeating the mantra, take a few moments to reflect on its meaning and its effect on your mind, body, and heart.

Conclusion

Mantras are used for many purposes, including healing, meditation, personal growth, and prayer. By linking your breath to the vibration of sound, the repetition of a mantra helps you enter a deep meditative state, clears your mind of negative thoughts, and connects you to your higher self and the divine. Chanting these sacred sounds affects the energy channels in the body and is calming to the mind and spirit. By practicing mantras, we can learn to access the spiritual wisdom within us, become more mindful in our daily life, and help ourselves heal and transform. Awakening our inner consciousness, connecting with the higher self, and attaining spiritual enlightenment can be realized through this practice.

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Definition, History, and Cautions • Healyourhealthyourself

HYHY Team — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 20:24:24 +0000

Kundalini yoga was coined, created and popularized in 1968 by Yogi Bhajan. He described the intent of his teaching to be a “healthy, happy, holy” (3HO) way of life. He taught his American students how to awaken their inner spiritual energy through mantra chanting, breath work, and yoga poses. This practice and lifestyle quickly caught on with many Westerners who were searching for a new approach to spirituality, health, and wellness. While Kundalini yoga flourished during the lifetime of Yogi Bhajan, new accounts have surfaced after his death that reveal a dark and disturbing past.

What is kundalini?

The Sanskrit term kundalini means “coiled serpent” and refers to the divine energy that lies dormant inside the human body. This vibrant energy is contained below the root chakra, located between the anus and genitals. It usually remains dormant and still, but there are specific Tantra Yoga and Hatha Yoga techniques that can be used to activate this energy. Once activated, it then rises from and travels upward. It moves through the susumna, the central energy channel in the center of the spine, through the seven chakras, until it reaches the crown chakra, where it becomes united with the divine consciousness.

Activating kundalini creates an ultimate state of bliss. Yet without adequate preparation, releasing this coiled-up serpent energy can lead to disaster. The release of such a powerful source of pranic energy into the body’s delicate systems can cause pain and, in rare cases, lead to mental instability. Before kundalini is activated and released upwards, the body and mind must be prepared through hatha yoga exercises, completed in a specific order.

During an activation, one can experience adverse effects as kundalini moves through the body and the nervous system adjusts to this dramatic increase of psychic energy. Therefore, it is not advised to activate kundalini without the guidance of a qualified teacher and support of a spiritual community.

What is kundalini yoga?

The Kundalini Yoga practice created by Yogi Bhajan combines breathing exercises, yoga postures, repetitive movement, meditation, mantra chanting and other Hatha Yoga and Sikh techniques to awaken the body’s kundalini energy.

In the Hatha Yoga tradition, Kundalini is slowly awakened by the practice of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques), meditation, and bandhas (energy locks). These practices prepare us to safely experience the power of kundalini. They also help us to understand the subtle nature of the chakras (energy centers) within the body. They should be practiced slowly and gradually over time to build up a yogi’s inner strength and awareness to manage and contain these high levels of life force energy.

How is kundalini different from other types of yoga?

Kundalini yoga classes include many of the same postures as other forms of yoga, but these are mostly the seated poses which focus on spinal exercises and repetitive movements. It also focuses more on the esoteric and energizing aspects than other types of yoga. Meditation, mantra, pranayama and visualization are emphasized over alignment and the other physical aspects of Hatha Yoga.

You will see dedicated practitioners wearing white clothes in a kundalini class and using sheepskins instead or on top of yoga mats. They believe wearing white will expand their aura and project positive energy out into the world. Kundalini yogis may also wear turbans or other head coverings as a way to focus their energy at the third eye or 6th chakra center. These are not required, but are used to symbolize the devotion to the practice and to strengthen the community.

History of kundalini yoga

Yogi Bhajan promoted his teachings as a secret tradition from an ancient lineage that he had publicly revealed for the first time. It is now understood that he made up this style of yoga from a fusion of two different traditions. The asanas and breathing exercises were derived from his studies with an Indian hatha yoga teacher named Swami Dhirendra Brahmachari. The chanting and devotional practices have their origins in the teachings of the Sikh saint Maharaj Virsa Singh.

Even though this was not the “ancient yoga practice” he promoted it to be, Yogi Bhajan’s teachings were a huge hit in Los Angeles in the early 70s. His teaching organization quickly grew across the US and worldwide, and expanded to over 300 centers in 35 countries. This expansion included the creation of multiple successful businesses and non-profit organizations that were estimated to be worth billions of dollars at the time of his death. He died of complications of heart failure at his home in New Mexico, on October 6, 2004, at the age of 75.

Accusations of abuse

While Yogi Bhajan became a revered teacher and had helped improve the lives of many of his followers, there have been many accusations of sexual, verbal, emotional and physical abuse made after his death. There have been other reports of drug smuggling, money laundering, and fraud.

To its credit, the parent company, SSSC, commissioned Olive Branch, to perform an independent investigation into the claims of abuse, and they collected and assessed accounts from nearly 300 witnesses. Olive Branch’s report, released to the public in August 2020, concluded that these accusations of abuse “more likely than not occurred.” Upon news of the report, some teachers and trainers have distanced themselves from the community or have stopped practicing teachings of Yogi Bhajan.

The SSSC created an independent healing and reparations program to acknowledge the harm and help heal the community. This voluntary program provides emotional resources and financial support to helping “individuals who experienced harm in our schools and youth programs, regardless of whether the harm was perpetrated by a staff member or a peer, and those who report sexual abuse by any leader or other person under institutional control in the community. ”

The dangers of kundalini yoga

Many people believe that awakening the kundalini energy within the body can be dangerous, and that it can cause you to become mentally unstable. Activating this serpent power energy can be achieved safely with the proper technique, teacher and intention.

Activating and stirring up this flow of energy without a clear purpose or intention can feel disruptive and lead to negative results. Quickly and forcefully stoking the serpent energy in a yoga class can create very strong and uncomfortable reactions. If you begin to feel unbalanced, lightheaded, or emotionally disrupted by this practice, slow down or stop, take some time to breathe deeply, and notice what you’re feeling. Taking time during and after the practice will be important to integrate any new energies that arise.

You should always consult with an experienced teacher before beginning any type of yoga, especially kundalini yoga. If you are concerned about its potential effects on your mental well-being, talk to your doctor, counselor, or therapist first.

The benefits of kundalini yoga

Kundalini yoga has many physical and mental benefits if practiced correctly. The intensity of this practice builds resilience, grit, and inner strength. Like other styles of yoga, it can increase your flexibility, strength, endurance, balance and coordination.. It reduces stress and anxiety and improves balance and coordination. The practice of Kundalini yoga can help release old patterns and habits and deepen your spiritual practice.

What to expect in a kundalini yoga class

A typical Kundalini yoga class is comprised of three parts: an opening chant (known as “tuning in”) followed by a brief warm-up for your spine, a kriya (which is a sequence of postures paired with breathing techniques), and a closing meditation or song.

A typical Kundalini yoga practice begins with a short chanting session known as tuning in. After the sequence of postures, there is a closing meditation or song, where we focus on stillness and silence.

Many of the common poses are used as kryias. A Kriya combines yoga postures with pranayama, Mudra and bandhas to move energy through the body. Most of the common kundalini poses are seated positions that focus on the spine. Cobra, Bow and Camel poses are all backbends that open the heart and chest. Spinal flexing in a seated cat cow pose and upper body movements in other seated positions are very common.

Several pranayama practices are used, but the most popular breathing techniques in a kundalini class is breath of fire. This focuses on expelling the breath as quickly as possible while still maintaining control over the inhalation through the nose. This can be a bit challenging for beginners, but the breath of fire has many great benefits to add to a yoga practice.

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Meaning, Definition and Purpose • Healyourhealthyourself

HYHY Team — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 21:44:38 +0000

Anyone who’s taken a yoga class has probably heard the term “asana.” Asanas are the physical body positions or poses of yoga that form the foundation of a modern hatha yoga practice. While most classes only teach the basics, there is a wide range of difficulty and complexity of the yoga asanas. To fully understand and learn the asanas, we will need to uncover the history of them, their origin, and how they’re used today in yoga. Gaining this knowledge opens up the doors for us to have a deep, profound and insightful practice.

Asana meaning and definition in Yoga

Asana is a Sanskrit word meaning “posture,” “seat,” or “place.” Asanas are the physical positions we assume during a hatha yoga practice. Each pose has its own Sanskrit and English name. Almost all of the Sanskrit names for the poses end with “asana.” For example, the classic lotus pose is named Padmasana, and the common tree poses is named Vrikshasana. Many of the asana names have come from the shapes and movements of animals and elements of the natural world. Some names differ by different schools of yoga, and some of the names have changed over time. There are several asanas that have been known by multiple names at different time periods.

There are many different types of poses, but they all follow the same basic principles of alignment and muscular engagement. They include everything from simple twists and backbends to advanced balancing poses. There can be many variations on the individual poses, and each variation has its own benefits, purpose and challenges.

An asana can be performed as a still and static position that can be held for several breaths, or it can be a posture that is part of a dynamic flowing movement that lasts for less than one inhale or exhale. The period of time it is held is dependent on the school of yoga followed and the intensity and difficulty of the physical posture. For example, Iyengar Yoga emphasizes yoga anatomy and physical alignment so the poses are held a while. In contrast, Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa styles move quickly between poses linking movements with breath as in the sun salutations.

While there is no wrong way to do any asana, there are a general principles of alignment, breathing techniques, and mindfulness that should be followed to prevent injury and maximize the benefits of yoga.

How many yoga postures are there?

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras was one of the first yogic texts to mention the word asana. Patanjali includes it as one of the eight limbs of yoga and in sutra 2.47 he notes that asana should be “steady and comfortable.” The classic Hatha Yoga Pradipika text describes 18 postures but goes on to state that “Shiva taught 84 asanas.” Yet a later text called The Gheranda Samhita notes that “there are 8,400,000 asanas described by Shiva. The postures are as many in number as there are numbers of species of living creatures in this universe. Among them 84 are the best; and among these 84, 32 have been found useful for humankind in this world.” Most yoga teachers only lead about 15-25 poses in their classes. YogaBasics’ pose directory has 120 of the main modern asanas listed with photos and step-by-step instructions.

The history of the asanas

The original asanas were simple seated positions designed to be performed by yogis during meditation. They were steady yet comfortable shapes designed to focus the mind and calm the nerves and allow one to enter a deep meditative state.

Since those early days, more and more asanas were created for different reasons. In the 11th century at the Goraksha Sataka text was the first to describe a non-seated asanas. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika was written in the 15th century and describes 18 poses, but none of these are standing poses. Non-seated poses first appear in the Gheranda Samhita which was composed in the 17th century.

In the famous 1966 asana book Light on Yoga, B. K. S. Iyengar included the asanas his teacher Krishnamacharya created from a fusion of traditional Indian wrestling, gymnastics, and British Army calisthenics. In 1974 yoga instructor Sri Dharma Mittra created an “Ultimate Yoga Chart” poster that contained a list of 908 asanas which was later published as a book.

The difference between asanas and other physical exercise

The practice of yoga combines stretching, breathing, mindfulness and meditation to improve your health, reduce stress and increase strength and flexibility. It’s less of a workout and more of an exploration into the mind-body connection. It’s a holistic lifestyle that is a mental and spiritual journey rather than a physical challenge.

In contrast, gymnastics and other physical exercise focus on building muscle mass, endurance and stamina through quick repetitions or sets of movement. There is no emphasis on breath work, mindfulness or developing the mind-body connection. Yoga is not a competitive sport like running or weight lifting. It is designed to develop balance, coordination and concentration through controlled movement while embracing non-judgement, kindness and compassion for yourself and others.

Asanas purpose and benefits

The modern practice of asana focuses primarily on its health benefits, and is used as a low-impact form of exercise. The traditional goals of asana also included preventing disease and promoting a healthy body but focused more on its spiritual purpose and benefits. By learning to control and discipline the body, the body’s energy and mind are also calmed and focused. Below are the more traditional and perhaps unknown purposes of a regular asana practice:

Yoga asanas are practiced to increase inner strength and focus to create a strong container to withstand the intensity of tapas, the austerity practices used to reach a state of enlightenment.
Yoga postures are used to control, purify and cultivate prana, the life-force energy the flows through the nadis or energy channels of the body.
Asana practice creates mental, emotional and energetic balance. When you perform asanas regularly, it helps reduce negative thought patterns and regulate the emotions.
Asanas are one of several yogic practices used to reduce bad karma and prevent its accumulation.
A grounded and steady physical practice facilitates the deeper practices of pranayama, bandha, and mudra. These hatha yoga practices help direct and calm the energy and promote further exploration of the subtle body.
A strong asana practice enables one to explore the conscious and unconscious mind through the layers of the koshas and subtle body. This allows one to gain insight into the true nature of self and reality.

The relevancy of asana in the yoga tradition

Asanas are a relatively small aspect of yoga when compared to the overall depth and breath of the tradition of yoga. They are a relatively small slice of an older and much larger body of knowledge, philosophy, lineage, and techniques. For example, you can explore other aspects of yoga such as breathing exercises, meditation, codes of social conduct, self-observances, diet, devotion, or selfless service, without having to do any asanas at all.

The ultimate goal of yoga is the union of one’s individual mind, body, and spirit. Yoga poses are one method you can help you attain peace within yourself by practicing self-discipline and self-awareness. Asanas were not intended to be a standalone practice. Instead, they were meant to complement the other practices of yoga.

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Why Do Yogis Say Namaste? (Definition, Meaning and Proper Use) • Healyourhealthyourself

HYHY Team — Thu, 03 Feb 2022 01:18:37 +0000

If you have ever taken a yoga class, you have probably heard the instructor end by bowing and saying “Namaste.” In India, this Sanskrit word and gesture is common and understood. In the West, this divine salutation is often used without fully knowing and understanding its meaning and proper usage. Yet in India, this is a common greating used in daily life. Knowledge, devotion, and respect are all key components to empowering the meaning behind a yogi’s favorite way to end their yoga practice.

What does Namaste mean?

To understand the meaning of Namaste, we need to break the word down into three parts. In the first part, the root word Namah is translated as “bow,” “adoration,” or “respectful salutation.” The middle As translates to “I” and the ending Te means “to you.” Thus, the literal translation is “I humbly bow to you.” In yogic philosophy, it is believed that each individual contains a tiny spark of the divine oneness called Atman or Brahman. So in this yogic context, the true meaning of Namaste becomes “the divine spark in me bows to the divine in you.”

How to say Namaste

Namaste is pronounced “Nah-mah-stey,” and is usually spoken with a slight bow and with hands pressed together in Anjali Mudra or prayer position. Your eyes can be open, gazing at the eyes of the other person or your eyes can be closed. At the end of a yoga class, the teacher will usually end with a Namaste. It is expected for the students to say Namaste back to the teacher and to all the other students. When saying Namaste to someone, feel your heart full of love, kindness, gratitude, and respect towards them.

What is the namaste gesture?

The hand gesture associated with the bow of namaste is called Anjali Mudra. This gesture is used in yoga traditions as a sign of respect and as a simple greeting of peace. Bringing our hands together at the heart chakra increases the flow of divine love, kindness and compassion. Bowing the heads and closing the eyes helps us surrender to the divine within. When we do this, we show our gratitude for being alive and honoring the divine soul in each other.

Why say Namaste?

Saying Namaste is a sweet and humble way to show respect towards another person. It allows you to express kindness, purity of heart, and well wishes for the other person. Saying Namaste provides a powerful opportunity to see and identify the good and virtue in others. Namaste is also used as an affirmation of the unity, equality, and oneness among people in the yoga community and in other Asian spiritual practices.

Should you say Namaste?

Just like chanting Om, you may or may not feel comfortable bowing and saying Namaste at the end of a yoga class. If you are not comfortable saying Namaste, know that it is perfectly okay to be silent and just bow. You can alternatively whisper or say in your head a different word that has a similar meaning to you.

There are many reasons why saying Namaste may not feel right to you:

You don’t understand the meaning and intent of the word.
It feels culturally insensitive or inappropriate to use.
It does not align with your religious beliefs.
You don’t feel right speaking Sanskrit words.
You do not feel you have enough experience in yoga to fully embody the essence of the word.

Not all teachers say Namaste

Some yoga instructors are uncomfortable ending their classes with Namaste. Instead, they say “thank you” or use another similar word to signal the end of the practice. Some teachers will also ring a bell, chime, or singing bowl. Bikram yoga teachers often leave the room without saying anything. Kundalini yogis end their practice by saying the Gurmukhi mantra Sat Nam, which translates to “I am truth” or “My essence is truth.” Kripalu yoga instructors will often use Jai Bhagwan, which means “may the Divine in you be victorious.”

When asking a group of teachers or students what namaste means to them, we typically hear a wide array of ideas. Most include light, love, the divine, or honor. Perhaps most common is something like, “the divine in me bows to and honors the divine in you.” – Mark Stephens

What does saying Namaste mean to you?

We asked several yoga experts and instructors what saying Namaste at the end of their classes signified for them. They also included some stories on when they first began using Namaste and some tips and advice for students who encounter this word for the first time.

Yoga Teacher Anne Marie Herring recounts how her feelings went from cheesy to deep respect when using Namaste in yoga class.

“When I first started practicing yoga, saying Namaste felt a bit disingenuous and even cheesy. I’d hear the teacher’s explanation that her highest Self sees and honors my highest Self. I felt uncomfortable with the idea that a part of her was speaking to a part of me I didn’t even know about.

My feelings around using the word Namaste shifted after developing a consistent meditation practice. Observing my thoughts and emotions from a place of nonjudgement revealed a better way to engage with the world within and around me. Witnessing internal dialogue places you in the role of awareness or observation. Non-judgemental awareness is within all of us; it’s what we call Higher Self. It is truly Higher, I think, because this way of viewing the mind pulls us up from the day-to-day role of habits and thought processes. Now, when I hear and speak the word Namaste I think of it as showing respect and gratitude to consciousness, to pure awareness, which has driven life in this universe far before and far beyond our current existence.

I would encourage teachers to continue using the word Namaste, even if, and perhaps especially if, they get funny looks from their students. Offering a word that taps on a student’s curiosity is a way to lead them further into yoga, into looking for deeper meaning and a greater understanding of their experience.”

Kino MacGregor, international yoga teacher and host of the Yoga Inspiration podcast, believes you should only use the word Namaste with the utmost respect and devotion.

“Using the term Namaste to begin or end a yoga class requires respect for the spiritual origins of the term and its Hindu roots. Unfortunately, the word Namaste has made its way into the pop culture lexicon. It is often used too casually, without proper knowledge of the word’s origins or the depth required to truly embody devotion.

If you use Namaste to end or begin your yoga classes, it is recommended to do with the utmost respect for Indian culture. In some sense, Namaste has a rather formal, or at least spiritually serious, meaning and origin that can sometimes be lost in casual usage. If you truly mean to bow down in an act of worship to the eternal essence in another being, then this very act could be considered the highest form of yoga. But if you just adopt a term because it sounds cool or exotic and commodify it without respecting the spiritual intention of it, then that could be problematic.

I start and end my classes with my hands resting in prayer position, thumbs towards the heart. This is a common gesture of both greeting respect in India and Asia and is called Anjali Mudra. In Sanskrit, Anjali signifies a gesture of reverence, benediction, and worship. A Mudra is a seal or sign. The significance of the hand position is likened to a lotus bud, representing the very beginning of an awakening in the heart of the spiritual practitioner.”

Registered Yoga Teacher and Certified Life Coach Mary Kearns uses the word Namaste to recognize the light in each and every one of us.

“I have always used Namaste to close out my yoga classes, and most of my students respond in kind. The one exception was the first time I taught teachers in a public school and wasn’t sure about the culture, so I didn’t use it. But by the third class, once I got to know the teachers, I began to use it, and they all respond with Namaste. I say it from a deep belief in its meaning, that we literally are all manifestations of the Divine.

I was raised as a Quaker (what I call no-frills Christianity), and one of the main ideals is recognizing the Light in yourself and others. In doing so, we feel compassion and unity toward all of humanity. So, I always close out my classes by saying, ‘The Light and Love in me honors, respects, and sees the Light and Love in each and every one of you. Namaste.’ I do this to convey the idea that I see our shared humanity/Divinity, and to remind my students to see that in each other. Hopefully, they then take this out into the world and give others a bit more slack.

For new students, I would encourage them to read up on the word to learn the subtleties of its meaning. And, to understand that it is not religious or dogmatic. I see it as a nice, compact way of saying something that many wisdom traditions say, kind of like saying Aloha.”

Leslie Kiel is a writer for QuickQuote and is an RYT 200 teacher who explains how the meaning of Namaste changed during her yoga teacher training course.

“When I first began practicing yoga, I was mostly searching for a way to stay motivated with exercise. Saying Namaste and bowing at the end of my class felt obligatory. I did it because everyone else did, and it held zero meaning for me. Years later, as I went through teacher training, discovered the meaning, and considered what it meant for my personal practice, my thoughts changed.

I realized sharing this word together at the end of a class can be a way for me to acknowledge we are all in this together, not just with yoga, but with life, too. Just because each person may be at a different place in their own journey doesn’t mean one person’s practice is any more worthwhile than someone else’s. Namaste encompasses all that for me.

When I began teaching, I wanted to try and create a space where no one and nothing felt forced. I decided I’d end each class with a simple expression of gratitude, followed by the word that represents so much tradition, acceptance, and love: Thank you for sharing your practice with me. Namaste.”

Chair yoga teacher Rachel Baer uses Namaste to connect students to something greater than themselves.

“I am aware that there have been a few negative thoughts around using Namaste lately. However, I like to use it as for my students and me as it feels like the word connects us to something bigger, something more than just ourselves and our own little worlds that we live in.

I often remind them in class that we are all connected to each other; we all have the same/similar wants, needs, and desires in life. We all have hope and dreams; we are all connected to those across the room, across the state, country, and wider. I explain this by the image of dropping a stone into a lake and seeing the ripple reaching out getting bigger and bigger, I often explain that this is the same as our attitudes and how we interact with each other, we can spread and ripple out kindness and empathy or the opposite. When we take that awareness away with us after class it can make a huge difference even if we are irritated at the check out line or stuck in traffic, our responses to ourselves and those around us can really make a difference both to our own well being and that of those around us.”

Rosie Araujo of Mint Body Studio describes how saying Namaste creates a safe space for her yoga students to let go and experience a sense of oneness.

“It wasn’t until I began teaching classes that the definition of Namaste bloomed within me. Namaste at the end of the class became the solidification of how I was able to touch people’s lives and souls. It’s the ending of an experience I create for people every week in every class that allows them a safe space to let go. And at the same time, it’s the beginning of a new moment of clarity that showers you the second after you say Namaste and open your eyes. I can give it many meanings, such as unity, understanding, love, and acceptance.

I would say, however, the meaning that stands out the most for me and what I’m truly feeling as I repeat this word along with everyone is, ‘we are one.’ We are all experiencing this thing called life together. It’s my way of saying that we’ve made it this far, and we are well on our way. For those that have never heard the word or have never spoken it, you don’t have to. All you get to do is allow yourself to feel it. It speaks without speaking. I don’t see it as either appropriate or inappropriate. It is truly what you make of it and what you let yourself connect to through using it.”

Bestselling author Mark Stephens describes which “you” one bows to in the spirit of Namaste.

“Most yoga students are familiar with Sun Salutations, otherwise known as Surya Namaskar. Here one is bowing to the sun. But it’s not merely the sun that we know as part of the cosmos. In Indian cosmology, the entire universe is found writ-small within the human being with specific representations. The sun, found in the heart, is considered the ultimate source of truth and wisdom, while the moon–the light of which is the distorted reflection of sunlight–is found in the relatively intelligent (and often confused) gray matter of the brain.

Thus, in bowing with the spirit of namaste, one is bowing to the deeper truth and wisdom that resides in their heart. And just as in Surya Namaskar, where some suggest we’re bowing to Lord Surya (the Sun god) in seeking to appease him and thus manifest the light of day, in bowing to someone else with the spirit of namaste they are bowing to the truth and wisdom in the heart of another.”

What does saying Namaste mean to you? We’d love to hear your thoughts on using or not using this sacred word in the comments below!

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Definition, Benefits and Styles • Healyourhealthyourself

HYHY Team — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 21:48:33 +0000

It may sound odd, but for me, that radiant and relaxed feeling we often associate with yoga didn’t come from a slow-paced yoga practice. It came after getting my butt kicked in a sweaty, strength-focused asana class. Not only did my vigorous fast-paced yoga practice offer me a physical and mental release, but I assumed that the residual soreness in my hips and hamstrings the following day meant I was doing everything right. Fortunately, I soon discovered that gentle yoga offers the same great feelings without all the sweat, soreness and pain.

What is gentle yoga?

Gentle yoga is essentially what it sounds like—a gentler style of hatha yoga practice. It is performed at a slower pace, with less intense positions, and usually includes extended time for meditation, yogic breath work, and relaxation. A gentle class usually includes more warm up movements and the yoga postures are often held for longer times. Modifications are done to help people of all fitness levels enjoy the benefits of yoga without putting themselves at risk for injuries. There is a stronger emphasis on stretching, seated poses and low-impact movements in these classes.

A slower and gentler practice of yoga allows a person to move at a comfortable pace, does not push them to do anything that may make them uncomfortable, and creates less strain on their muscles and joints.

Gentle yoga can be practiced by just about anyone, regardless of age or physical condition. It is especially great for people with injuries, pain, mobility or health issues. A gentle yoga practice is a great choice for anyone who is afraid they are not flexible or fit enough to do the yoga poses.

Benefits of gentle yoga

Gentle yoga, with its emphasis on breathing and quiet reflection, allows us to come away feeling flexible in our bodies, relaxed in our minds, and calmed in our nervous systems. Gentler practices often provide rewards: mental, physiological and spiritual rejuvenation, without having to endure the sweat and tears first.

For some people, the thought of a gentle yoga class seems boring or not physically or mentally advantageous. But I assure you, whether you choose a restorative, yin or a slow-moving hatha yoga class, your body will benefit in a myriad of ways. A gentler style of yoga calms the nervous system so that the parasympathetic nervous system can be engaged. This encourages better digestion, a decrease in stress levels, and an enhanced ability to relax and heal. These classes are perfect fits for people who have trouble falling asleep at night, are constantly running through their to-do lists on their lunch breaks, or whose bodies feel tight and restless.

If you are a power or hot yoga junky who is doubtful about trying a gentler practice, know that you don’t have to throw away your sweat sessions altogether. Incorporating a gentle, restorative or yin practice just once a week will help you maintain balance in your body, avoid yoga burnout and get to know your body and mind in different ways. And think of it this way: if you’re really resistant to practicing gentle yoga, there may be some valuable lessons to be learned there. If you’ve limited yourself to one type of yoga, considering going beyond that limitation and opening up to a new, slower form of practice.

Who is gentle yoga for?

Beginners who want an easy and slow class to start
People with reduced levels of fitness, strength, mobility or flexibility
Seniors
Students with chronic health issues or injuries
Pregnant women
Overweight students
Patients recovering from surgery or chemotherapy
Anyone who wants to experience a slow, mindful and meditative practice

Gentle Yoga Styles

There are many different types of gentle classes you can explore. Each one will have a unique pace and style of movement. Explore them all to find the class that works best with your personality, personal needs and goals.

Yin
Contrary to how it sounds, yin yoga isn’t exactly “easy.” In this class, students hold poses (mostly on the floor) for 3-5 minutes at a time to access deep layers of muscle and achieve deep physical release. For some, the length of time spent in a posture can be mentally challenging, contributing to improved focus and concentration. Yin yoga is especially good for yogis who frequently practice more athletic styles of yoga. Incorporate one yin yoga class or a few yin yoga poses throughout the week, and you’ll likely feel more balanced in your body.
Restorative Yoga
These classes might feel more like nap time than yoga for the uninitiated, but my advice? Just go with it. In restorative classes, students hold poses for up to 10 minutes (or more), supported by props so that your body can fully relax. The goal of restorative yoga is not necessarily to stretch, but to give in to opening through support so that your muscles, nervous system and mind can truly let go and release into relaxation.
Kripalu
This school of yoga teaches classes that are generally mindful and gentle. Kripalu classes are often coined “meditation in motion” as they emphasize meditation, mindfulness, and breath work. Students are encouraged to explore and observe the energetic aspects of the practice.
Chair Yoga
This class uses a chair for most or all of the yoga postures. A folding chair is used as a support, making this a very easy class for seniors and those with medical conditions.
Gentle
Gentle yoga classes can take many forms, but typically, gentle classes use basic yoga poses in a slow, low-impact way. You might find yourself flowing from pose to pose. Or you might find yourself staying with one pose for a longer amount of time. Without a doubt, you will be stretching, breathing, and feeling rejuvenated when you walk out the door.

Is gentle for you?

Gentle yoga is a style of yoga that best helps students who are injured, older, or just beginning to practice. Gentle yoga is a great choice for people who want to try yoga but is afraid they are not flexible or fit enough to do so. As with any physical activity, it’s important to choose a yoga style that’s appropriate for your current physical and mental condition.

Conclusion

Like most yogis, I fell in love with yoga because of the way it made me feel. I used to think I had to push my body in order to release pent up energy and find relaxation. It took a while, but I eventually realized there is more than one way to feel amazing after a yoga session. While I still practice athletic yoga styles like ashtanga and vinyasa, I’ve created a more balanced yoga practice by taking regular classes of different gentle yoga styles.

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