7 Steps To A Better Memory

A better memory may sound unbelievable to some. But, believe it or not, it is really possible; and simple. You can protect and improve your memory the simple way; with easy lifestyle changes. To find out what habits really help improve memory, our researchers set up a survey to test 10,500 people's long-term memory (what happened 2, 6, and 25 years ago), working memory (what's on a mailing list), and the ability to remember others people's faces, names, and jobs. Our researchers then quizzed everyone about their lifestyles. Looking for a mind like a steel trap?

Here are 7 steps to a better memory we found most likely to help you:

1. Breathe properly: Pranayamas are breathing exercises developed by the ancient yogis. The mind and breath, it has been proven are interconnected. Notice, when you’re agitated you start to palpitate. Conversely, slow breathing helps calm the mind. Pranayama essentially involves regulating the breath, controlling the vital force and channelizing the vital force in the right directions. The most beneficial for a better memory are known to be Kapalabhatti and Anuloma-Viloma.

2. Practise yogasanas: The regular practice of yogasanas has proven to be of immense health and therapeutic value. In addition to their various physiological benefits, research down the decades has proven that they positively affect our minds, as well. Why, our life force energies as well as our creative intelligence can be molded and augmented by their regular practice. Sarvangasana and Sirshasana are known to be the most beneficial for an enhanced memory.

3. Maintain a healthy diet: Many diseases are directly or indirectly linked with wrong food habits. Lowered memory is one of them. A change in diet stimulates the whole system, thereby enhancing its functioning. For this reason Yoga emphasizes a vegetarian diet or foods full of the life-force. A mention about diet in the present context is very important because it is intimately connected with other yogic practices like breathing, relaxation and meditation. The intake of low fat vegetarian diet makes the yogic practices of meditation and shavasana easier for the participants. Diet and yogic exercises complement each other.

4. Learn to relax: The very word - relaxation - brings images of some kind of discipline like yoga or something similar to be done at a particular time of the day. On the contrary, relaxation simply means deliberately, consciously releasing the tension that has somehow crept into the mind and body. For this Yoga essentially prescribes two techniques, Dirga Pranayama and Shavasana. The more relaxed you are, watch your memory also improve over a period of time. Actually, it’s all about ridding yourself of all that junk that clutters up the mind space, interfering with good memory.

5. Meditate a little: Meditation is a technique used to stabilize the mind, increase concentration and will power, balance cellular energy and develop one-pointedness. Meditation systematically deals with all levels of ones being, including ones relationship with the world and with oneself. It deals with the senses, body, breath and all the levels of mind. Meditation gently moves inward through each of these aspects of ones being, leading to a deep stillness and silence, from which the deeper experiences might be found, naturally, resulting in a calmer mind and enhanced powers of memory.

6. Have less tobacco, alcohol, tea and coffee: For millennia, people have been using substances to lift their spirits. Ever since, humans have also come to discover that alcohol reduces inhibitions, impairs judgment, affects sexual performance and leads to hangovers and loss of memory over time. Likewise, caffeine a key ingredient of coffee, tea and chocolate is the world's most popular stimulant. It is used by billions of people to boost alertness. However, it is proven that alcohol, nicotine and caffeine increase blood pressure and stimulates the heart, lungs and other organs. It also causes panic attacks, can play havoc with sleep cycles and, over a protracted period of time with the memory as well.

7. Watch less TV: If you think you’ve got a bad memory, then you’re probably right. And if you’d like to improve your memory, we discovered some of the habits of good rememberers! For starters, turn off the box, or at least don’t watch too much of it. People who watch less than an hour of TV a day did better in all memory tests!

Practice these 7 steps and, in course of time, you are bound to have a better memory.

31 Proven Stress Busters

1. Do not sweat over the small things in life which can be easily changed or fixed. E.g. If your watch stops working, either get it fixed or get a new one.
2. Always take preventive measures of all your belongings including relationships.
3. Keep a good stock of everyday supplies. Don’t wait for the gas tank in your car to reach the empty spot. As soon as you see the gas indicator nearing the empty spot, get it filled. Keep a healthy supply of clean clothes and food in the house.
4. Restrict the caffeine content in your daily consumption.
5. Get yourself ready for next day the previous evening itself. This will give you a head start and will help avoid all possible delays and distractions.
6. Always keep a back-up plan to whatever you do. This will help if the original plan does not work out the way you wanted it to.
7. Make duplicate keys and keep them in a safe place. Always carry a set of keys with you and hide them in such a place that only you are aware of.
8. Ask questions when someone assigns you a task or expects something out of you. It is very important to get clear directions rather than being confused and hence lowering that person’s expectations.
9. Make things as simple as possible.
10. Don’t depend upon your memory. Note down all your appointments and important things on a piece of paper and carry it along.
11. Learn how to say “No!” to things that you do not have the energy to do. Refuse things which do not excite you or puts your self-respect at stake.
12. In order to achieve peace around you, use your earplugs. If that does not help, plug in earphones and listen to your favorite music.
13. Get sufficient amount of sleep everyday. Set a deadline for bedtime.
14. Examine your body for anxiety signals. Take slow deep breaths and relax your muscles when you have butterflies in your stomach.
15. In order to relax, follow this yoga exercise. Take a deep breath through your nose till your lungs get full and slowly exhale from your mouth. Do this at least 8 to 10 times and you will feel the difference.
16. Be comfortable with flexibility. Some things in life do not require perfection.
17. If you are stressed at work due to deadlines, use an entertaining alternative. Take time off the task and get back to it later. You will be able to concentrate much effectively.
18. Keep away from people and places that don't fit your individual requirements and wishes. If you dislike politics, don't hang out with politically thrilled people.
19. Be friends with people who have an optimistic attitude. Hanging around with people who worry a lot can be quite contagious.
20. Live each day of your life to the fullest.
21. Do everything with affection and care.
22. Avoid conflicts with your comments. Think practically before saying anything by thinking at least twice.
23. Ebb anxiety with a hot shower or bath.
24. Ensure that people understand the message you are conveying to them. Make sure that people see your affection towards them.  
25. Groom yourself to perfection. This will build up your confidence and you will have a great day.
26. Reverse the weekday activities during the weekends. If you had a lazy week, do something creative during the weekend.  
27. Pay attention to the present and the future will be just fine.
28. Take time out for yourself in order to achieve peace and privacy. This will also help you to think more vividly.
29. Complete repulsive tasks first-hand and have fun doing easier tasks.
30. Assign responsibility to people who are capable.
31. Keep an optimistic mind about the world. It is the best thing to do in order to be happy.

Butt Workouts And Stretching Exercises

People are now more aware of their health and they know that physical training is very important for their health. People now tend to join gyms for regular exercise to tone their bodies. Women tend to join aerobic studios more than gyms because there is a myth or a misunderstanding that girls who practice in a gym may develop bulging muscles.

Although this is, strictly speaking, not true. This is because most women do not have sufficient testosterone to develop the bulging muscles that men can. Weight training can be as useful for maintaining fitness as any other form of exercise. There is another form of exercise that can provide you all of the benefits of weight training, and some additional ones to maximize your fitness levels. This extraordinary workout is yoga.

Whether you are looking for an effective chest workout, back workout, leg workout, thigh workout, or butt workout, there is a yogic posture that will do the trick. When you move downward to the back workout, you may want to practice these poses and postures just to relieve your back from regular pain and also to avoid slipping spinal discs. A yogic back workout can help you to develop better back muscles and better abdominal muscles. The back muscles support the whole structure of the body and need special attention.

A sagging derriere can also get a much needed lift through specialized yoga techniques that are as effective as any regular butt toning exercises. These exercises target the lower sacral region and strengthen this part to provide better posture for the body.

You can train this region through different types of poses and postures. There are butt stretches which concentrate on making the muscles in this region more flexible and give it more. These yogic exercises depend on more than one thing to burn fat. First of all, these exercise increase the basal metabolic rate (BMR) and help the body to burn more calories. Secondly, these yogic butt workouts directly stimulate the specific muscles in this area. This results in a better shape and less fat.

The best thing about yoga is that it has something for everyone, irrespective of age or gender. You do not have to be hundred percent fit to practice yoga. Just sing up at your nearest yoga class and you will soon be on the way to a firmer butt and healthier body.

10 Yoga Exercises To Do In Office

Performing some simple yoga exercises during office hours can be very useful in reducing the strain that is put on the back, neck and shoulder muscles. The strain that is put on these muscles can lead to stiffness and tension. The tension can lead to headaches and pain in the shoulder, neck and back, and if not treated, it can lead to long term problems.

Practicing yoga exercises at your office will help release the tension and increase the flexibility and strength of your muscles. 

It has been advised by psychologists and doctors for employees to perform some form of yoga exercise at the office. This is not only because of the physical benefits but also to sharpen the mind and increase energy levels, which will lead to improved efficiency.

It is essential that you practice neutral standing or sitting. Very often we tend to use improper posture that usually leads to problems later on. You could perform a simple yoga exercise at office to maintain the proper position of your spine. To perform this exercise you should keep your feet at the distance of your hips and bend forward. While keeping your feet parallel look down towards it. Make sure that your knees and hips are at right angles if you are sitting. Sit tall and straight at the end of your chair. 

Performing some yoga poses at office like Virabhadrasana I (Warrior Pose I) will be effective in relaxing the upper body. You could also practice some yoga stretches at the office for the chest, wrist, shoulder and neck. The shoulder shrug is an effective exercise to help bring relaxation to stiff shoulders. To perform this exercise you should begin with your hands to your sides. While inhaling raise your shoulders to come up to your ears. Then let your shoulders come back down while you exhale. While inhaling you should tense the muscles of your neck and shoulder, and when you exhale let them relax completely.  You could also practice some yoga desk exercises like Bidalasana (Cat Pose) and Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) with some modifications to incorporate the chair that you will be sitting on.

Stretching exercises at office also include standing spinal twist, lateral side stretch, and seated hip stretch. It is important that you make it a point to practice the yoga exercises at office, especially if you spend long hours behind a desk. This will help prevent long-term problems and also improve your state of mind during work which will bring optimum efficiency.

Sitting for long stretches of time every day, especially in front of a computer, can take a toll on your body and mind. However, it doesn't have to be that way.

Here are 10 simple warm up exercises you can do at the office that hardly take much time but help you stay fit:

1. Upper Body Stretches: Sit firmly on the edge of your chair, gripping its back. Straighten your arms then, keeping your back straight, let your upper body pull you forward to stretch your shoulders, upper back and chest. Repeat a few times.

2. Shoulders and Back Stretch: Sit erect with your hands clasped behind your head. Now, gently pull your elbows as far back as you can, then hold them firmly in position. Repeat a few times.

3. Leg Stretches: Sit and grip the seat of your chair and raise one leg while you flex your foot. Slowly move the leg outward and then back toward the center and down. As you stretch, straighten your shoulders and relax your neck and hands. Hold each stretch for 15 seconds to a minute then repeat with other leg. Start with five repetitions and then raise the number of repetitions as you are ready.

4. Spinal Stretches: Sit on your chair with your spine erect and both feet flat on the floor. Pretend there is a cord attached to the crown of your head gently tugging you up. Direct your gaze in front of your nose then bring your hand to your chin. Inhale deeply, resting your hand on your chin and exhale slowly. Now gently press your chin in to your neck. Do 4 or more sets.

5. Ear to shoulder exercises: Sit on your chair with your spine erect and both feet flat on the floor. Now, inhale deeply. As you exhale, slowly roll your left ear towards your left shoulder. Again, inhale and exhale slowly, rolling your chin back to your chest. Once more inhale and exhale slowly, rolling your right ear to your right shoulder. Now, inhale deeply and exhale slowly, rolling your chin back to your chest. Do 4 or more sets of this.

6. Deep breathing exercises: Sit on your chair with your spine erect and both feet flat on the floor. Inhale deeply filling your belly, lower lungs, mid lungs, upper lungs and chest. Slowly expel the breath from your upper lungs, mid lungs, lower lungs then belly. Repeat 4 more times with your eyes closed.

7. Chair relaxation: Sit on your chair with your spine straight and both feet flat on the floor. Grasp your kneecaps and hold them firmly. Relaxed your shoulders and arms. Now, inhaling slowly, press and lift your chest forward and up. Then exhale slowly rounding your back, pulling your navel in to your spine and curling your shoulders forward. Repeat 4 to 5 more times until your body feels loose and relaxed.

8. Back Massage: Carry a tennis ball to the office. Sitting tall in your chair, place the tennis ball on the painful area and lean the back rest into it. While pushing against the ball, take long, deep breaths. Take 5 to 10 or more breaths as you find necessary.

9. Temple Rub: Keep your elbows on your desk and place your hands on your temples. With small circular motions, gently rub your temples first clockwise and then anti-clockwise. Do this for a duration of 10 to 15 long, deep breaths.

10. Meditation: Sit on your chair with your spine straight and both feet flat on the floor. Start taking long, deeply breaths and then gently slip your chin down to your chest. Resting your hands on your thighs or down by your side, relax your shoulders down and back. Close your eyes and take your gaze to a point between your eyebrows. Take 5 to 10 long deep breaths, shut eyes focused between your brows.

10 Yoga Techniques To Keep You Cheerful

There are many ways to reduce tension and relax. Here are the ten stress relievers which are most effective for the amount of work and time involved. Some can be learned in the time it takes to read this page, while others take a little more practice, but there's something here for everyone!

1. Be optimistic: Remember situations are just what you make them to be. If you think you are sad and miserable, then that thinking makes it so.

This is why maintaining a positive, cheerful and an optimistic outlook helps. What’s more, it can add years to life and life to years.

 2. Take time to relax: In this paced, hectic world, it can be tough to pull over and relax. However, try and make it a point to relax. It just might make your life a little happier and longer. Since it relieves stress, and tension – two things that take both a big toll on life – relaxation is a great way to keep you healthy physically, mentally and emotionally.

 3. Eat wisely and well: It may sound incredible to some, what with junk food being cheaper and more convenient. However, come to think of it, eating wisely isn't all that tough. All it takes is a little planning, discipline, and small portions when the stuff isn’t all that healthy.

 4. Breathe properly:  Deep breathing is one of the best and easiest stress relievers. It has tremendous benefits on the body, including oxygenating the blood that awakens the brain. In the process the muscles relax and the mind quietens down. Breathing exercises are so special because you can do them anywhere. They work so fast, so you can de-stress in a jiffy. Yogic breathing techniques (Pranayama) are great to begin with.

 5. Take time to meditate:  Meditation helps build on deep breathing, and takes you one more step forward. Meditation sends your brain to an area of functioning very similar to sleep, with added benefits you don’t achieve in any other state. Further, the mental focus on nothingness helps keep your mind from working overtime, thereby decreasing your stress levels.

 6. Get a massage:  The sense of touch is closely linked to one’s state of mind. In fact, it is fundamental to one’s overall sense of well-being. Work on this area by getting a massage from a friend or a professional. If neither is available, use a self-massager. It will work just as well in promoting blood circulation, releasing tension, and relaxing you more.

 7. Listen to music:  Music therapy has proven its bounteous benefits for all, including people with conditions like mild stress to terminal cancer. When dealing with stress, the right music actually lowers the blood pressure, relaxes the body and calms the mind.

 8. Enjoy sex:  Most of you already know perhaps that sex is a great tension reliever. However have you really thought of it as a stress-buster? You probably should. There are immense physical benefits to sex and most of them work very well as stress relievers. Unfortunately, a lot of folks have less sex when their stress levels are high. Try to avoid this trap.

 9. Laugh a little more: The phrase "Laughter is the best medicine" may sound like an old adage. However, like most old maxims, this one holds a lot of truth. In fact, research has proven that laughter is a natural medicine, with the ability to decrease stress-related, psychosomatic illnesses. Laughter also has many of the physical and mental benefits of yoga, making it feel like yogic training for the funny bone.

 10. Quit smoking: You know smoking is bad for health, what with so many "No Smoking" signs evolving into more of a life saving appeal than just a simple suggestion. Remember, giving up can prolong your life, giving a further fillip to longevity. So take a deep breath and a strong decision to quit now.

Yoga - Introduction

Yoga – Introduction 

Quite a self contradictory statement it is: "Yoga - the new age fitness mantra", because Yoga is not new age at all. It's just that the benefits of the same are being discovered again. An ancient Indian philosophy, the principles of Yoga are timeless, holding true as much in today's time as it did centuries ago.

In Sanskrit, Yoga means "to unite". Primarily an exercise in moral and mental cultivation of poses and practices that aim towards harmonising your mind, body and soul to achieve a state of oneness with the universe. It's a spiritual practice that does not subscribe nor promote any particular faith; hence it can be practised by all.

A lifestyle choice by many, the universally timeless philosophies of yoga can be incorporated into any belief system. Stress, anxiety, ill-health, unhappiness and anger can be transformed into peacefulness, vibrant health, service and love towards all creation. The techniques are important in this process but the goal should be kept firmly in mind.

The three main aspects of yoga are :-

Asanas or poses 

The various yogic poses that give your body flexibility, strengthen the muscles and even reduce fat build-up. More importantly many asanas or poses are aimed at improving the blood circulation and functioning of specific organs in your body. Keeping in mind your body's specific needs, you can work out a set of asanas for yourself.

Pranayama or breathing 

Pranayama can be called the singular most important aspect of yoga as they are means to purify the subtle energies flowing through the body. Yogic breathing techniques are an effective tool to calm, energize, harmonise and tranquillise the body and mind. All poses are to be properly coordinated with inhalation, exhalation and holding of breath. Breathing patterns if not followed correctly could result in the asana not having its desired effect. 

What Is Hatha Yoga?

Ha mean sun and tha means moon so in a simple language hatha would mean the union of opposites. It can also be stated as a very forceful yoga. It deals mostly with the poses and is basically more into the physical exercising type of yoga.


It is the best technique of exercising and stretching yourselves in all the manner, providing you the best platform for making your life very beautiful and enhanced. It is the way for your spiritual realization and it is important to make it an intergral part of your life.

The whole meaning of this word is harmonizing your body or soul


The principles on which hatha yoga works is feeling, thinking, willing and acting.When all of these come in a perfect balance,they make it a perfect eternal bliss. It is a cleansing process which helps in removing the blockages of your body and soul.It is a source of energy to remove the repetitive and constant negative energy. It purifies your mind and soul making it a very important part of your cleansing.

Hatha yoga poses describes the Mudras and mental state of mind which results in the level of concentration. It also provides freedom from all the unnecessary worldly choices which would create the right impact on your body and would indirectly be positive for your soul too. This is also a state of withdrawal and the spontaneous state of meditation. Some of the several mudras in Hatha yoga are Vajroli Mudra, Sahajoli Mudra, Khechari Mudra, Shambhavi Mudra, Virpri Karani.

Knowing More About Bhakti Yoga

Bhakti means devotion or faith. It can be devotion towards your fellow men as well as for the need we are living in this world. The devotion towards your god no matter which faith you are.
It is the faith towards the Supreme Being which some may believe and some may not.

The thought is about how devoted you are towards the path you have taken. It is the energy which denotes the path and how important is the path for you.


It talks about your full devotion towards the direction you have taken and the values for which you are standing by.

It is also a bond of love which grows between the one who prays to the one he prays to. It talks about love and devotion transcending all the boundaries you must have ever known about. It is not the physical attribute which creates the impact; it is spiritual, which creates unison of mind and soul.

It is one of methods to gain your spiritual path and gaining immense self-awareness which would be very hard to find. Looking into your heart and soul just makes things crystal clear. Need for a mind which is clear from all worries and attachment, for undivided attention to the devoted path.

It talks about love, devotion and knowledge in all forms which can bring a bright change in your life. It can create immense presence of your being in the beautiful world. It is beyond religion, a search for higher ground with your devotion (Bhakti). It is a form of love creating a merger between you and the outside world. It is a process to gather knowledge and also provide it to the one who needs it. 

What Is Ashtanga Yoga?

The eight limbs which signify Ashthanga Yoga are

1. Yama - It reflects the moral and ethical grounds of human behavior

Ahimsa: Non-violence

Satya: Truthfulness

Asteya: No stealing

Brahmacharya: Celibacy

Aparigraha: Non-covetousness or Envy or possessiveness

2. Niyama - It reflects the disciplines one has to go through their human life

 Shoucha - Purity

 Santosh - Contentment

 Tapa - Endurance

 Swadhyaya- Self study

 Eshwar Pranidhan- Dedication towards god

3.Asana: It is the practice of asana for better well-being in your body and soul

4. Pranayama: Breathing exercises a way to attain control on your breathing pattern

5. Pratyahara: Withdrawal of the senses, which would mean total cut off from the outside world and the concentration level increases in making your mind a haven for all the positive energy.

6. Dharana: Concentration, something which would help you to concentrate without any level of distraction.

7. Dhyana: Meditation and concentration on things which are your main objective but also being done on a wider perspective.

8. Samadhi: Attainment a state of joy and bliss which is based on your skills of dhyana and realizing the purity of your life and the importance in life as whole. It can also be stated as enlightenment. 

Benefits of Yoga for Beginners

Benefits of Yoga for Beginners-

• As the body relaxes all the muscles also relax excluding those that are used in the movements. Hence you can easily concentrate on the movement of a particular muscle.
• Aged and infirm people also can perform these movements without much strain.

Yoga basics of beginners:

• Those below 12 years of age should not practise Yoga poses for long and should also not maintain asanas for very long.
• Practice Yoga for at least 30 to 45 minutes daily, to derive maximum results. Start with beginner yoga poses.
• The best suited time for Yoga practice is early morning; but you can practice in the evenings as well
• See that your stomach is empty while practicing. This means you should have solid food 3 – 5 hours before practicing and liquids 1 hour before.
• See that your practice space is spacious, clean, airy and far from disturbances.
• Never practise Yoga on a bare floor; always spread a mat or carpet below.
• Your clothes must be loose, comfortable and clean.
• Undergarments are mandatory.
• Yoga favors a vegetarian diet. However, as far as possible try to avoid spicy foods.

Yoga Postures of beginners (Asanas) :

• Asanas are the 3rd limb of Ashtanga Yoga. Yogasanas bestow good physical health, control over your mind and power of concentration.
• Yoga is different from other forms of exercise since it does not involve rapid movements. Here the movements are very slow and steady.
• The practise of Yogasanas bestow relaxation that, subsequently, lowers levels of stress & strain.
• During Yogasana practice, very few calories are consumed.
• Subsequently, the body’s metabolism rate also drops. This means slower aging process.

Benefits of Yoga for Beginners-

• As the body relaxes all the muscles also relax excluding those that are used in the movements. Hence you can easily concentrate on the movement of a particular muscle.
• Aged and infirm people also can perform these movements without much strain.

Yoga basics of beginners:

• Those below 12 years of age should not practise Yoga poses for long and should also not maintain asanas for very long.
• Practice Yoga for at least 30 to 45 minutes daily, to derive maximum results. Start with beginner yoga poses.
• The best suited time for Yoga practice is early morning; but you can practice in the evenings as well
• See that your stomach is empty while practicing. This means you should have solid food 3 – 5 hours before practicing and liquids 1 hour before.
• See that your practice space is spacious, clean, airy and far from disturbances.
• Never practise Yoga on a bare floor; always spread a mat or carpet below.
• Your clothes must be loose, comfortable and clean.
• Undergarments are mandatory.
• Yoga favors a vegetarian diet. However, as far as possible try to avoid spicy foods.

Yoga Postures of beginners (Asanas) :

• Asanas are the 3rd limb of Ashtanga Yoga. Yogasanas bestow good physical health, control over your mind and power of concentration.
• Yoga is different from other forms of exercise since it does not involve rapid movements. Here the movements are very slow and steady.
• The practise of Yogasanas bestow relaxation that, subsequently, lowers levels of stress & strain.
• During Yogasana practice, very few calories are consumed.
• Subsequently, the body’s metabolism rate also drops. This means slower aging process.

What is Yoga? Learn the Basics of Yoga

What is Yoga? Learn the Basics of Yoga

Yoga is an ancient Indian practice dealing with the well being of human mind, body and spirit.

The principles of yoga, called Yogasutra, were given by Patanjali, a saint philosopher and a physician, who lived around 3 centuries before Christ. He is known as the founder of yoga. These sutras are timeless and hold true even today. They help you to lead a blissful life by improving your physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Who can practice Yoga? 

Yoga is a series of exercises that is performed to improve health and flexibility. People of any age, sex or any fitness level can practice yoga. The beauty of yoga is that it is highly flexible, so you can modify yoga techniques to meet your need. If you have mobility problems, use chair to perform yoga. Office-goers can try the deep-breathing practices to relieve their stress.

Sportsmen and physically active people can use the strengthening techniques to enhance their activities. Children can increase their attention span by using yoga techniques. Seniors can use yoga techniques to improve the body mobility and the flexibility of their joints. Doctors recommend yoga practices for the people with cardiac problems.

What is yoga? 

Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” which means to unite or to join. Even though, people tend to think that yoga is a series of exercises with twisted body poses, it is not so. Basically, it helps you to connect with your inner spirit, which is essentially divine and is connected to the universal spirit or God.

Types of yoga’s 

Although people associate yoga with only exercises or asanas as they are commonly called, yoga is of many types. The most popular type is Hatha Yoga. 

This type of yoga contains various types of asanas and is beneficial in improving the body strength and flexibility. Karma yoga teaches you the way of right action without expecting the fruits of labour and offering the activity as the service to almighty. You learn devotion and unconditional love for the divine by Bhakti Yoga. Answer to your deeper questions like: who am I, Where do I come from, - come from Jnana Yoga. Control your mind and be free from worldly attachments by practicing Raja Yoga. Kundalini Yoga releases the energy present in the chakras or energy centers in your body by teaching you deep breathing. Tantric Yoga worships the feminine energy and teaches you to look at your body as a source of divine.

Benefits of yoga 

Unlike modern day exercises, which concentrate only on the body or on the mind, yoga techniques provide a holistic approach towards your welfare. Asanas help you to improve your strength and flexibility, so that you can carry out your daily activities unhindered. Deep breathing techniques help in removal of toxins in the body and aid in relaxation. Yoga can be a great weight loss and toning tool. It helps in healing and nourishing the body. Meditation calms your mind and gives you clarity of thought.

The major benefit of yoga is that it doesn’t need any special place or equipment or clothes. All you need is mat and loose fitting clothes. Thus you can practice yoga even when you are away from your home.

Creating a yoga environment

Yoga can be practiced at any time of the day. Choosing to practice in the morning energizes you and the relaxed, soothing practice helps to wind up in the evening. The room should be airy, clean and well lit. Avoid air conditioners. Play soft music or yoga cassettes and keep incense sticks in the room to clean the air. If possible, keep some flowers in the room. Tips for great yoga practice

Yoga can be practiced at any time of the day. Choosing to practice in the morning energizes you and the relaxed, soothing practice helps to wind up in the evening. The room should be airy, clean and well lit. Avoid air conditioners. Play soft music or yoga cassettes and keep incense sticks in the room to clean the air. If possible, keep some flowers in the room.

Adopt a positive attitude. Set manageable goals. Start with simple exercises and as you progress, increase your intensity. Record your progress so that you can note down your experiences, thoughts and anything else. Practice yoga on an empty stomach or 3 hours after a meal. Avoid smoking, drinking, drugs, non-veg and fried foods. Keep your meals simple. Do your practice at the time convenient to you. But mornings till 9.00 am are preferable since they are neither too hot nor cold.

Yoga at the White House, An Easter Tradition! 2011 Pics

It’s Easter again at The White House! Which means Egg Rolls down the South Lawn, childrens book readings by the prez and…yoga! It’s an Easter tradition! The theme of this year’s annual event is “Get Up and Go,” playing into First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” initiative to prevent childhood obesity. As part of the Easter fun, the Obamas hosted yoga yet again, and we have pics! About 30,000 people attended the event, and the 10 -15 minute yoga sessions went on throughout the day with 10 to 50 kidlets at a time.

Yes, that is the Easter Bunny doing Virabhadrasana III, with his pal the blue gummy bear?

Meet Even Keel

Elizabeth Matthews discovered the benefits of yoga during her freshman year of college and instantly became an avid yoga student. Throughout her growth, she continued to work in the profit and non-profit sector hoping to one day have her own business. Finally, Liz decided to pursue this desire and incorporate her passion for yoga and create something wonderful out of it.

Part hipster, hippie, athlete, do-gooder, and cynic, she wanted yoga gear that fit her personality and lifestyle. Liz recognized the need for unique, functional, and sustainable yoga apparel. "I've been practicing yoga for years and didn't adore any of the pants that I had in my closet", so with no background in fashion, Liz started Even Keel in December 2007 based on the philosophy of maintaining balance in our personal and professional life and all of the activities big and small that it entails.

The Even Keel’s styles are made with a sustainable blend of bamboo and organic cotton fabricwhich means it's produced without the harshness of chemicals and earth-friendly! This fabric blend is incredibly soft, lightweight and breathable. The bamboo has natural anti-bacterial and wicking abilities - important qualities in yoga and exercise apparel.

Now I can speak from personal experience, I received a pair of the Luscious Leggings to try out. Normally, I would prefer to wear something a little looser. Sometimes us curvy girls may not want to show off the curves but in the fairness of yoga journalism, I took one for the team. I put them to the ultimate test. I wore them to a sweat inducing Open Level class at Jivamukti in NYC,Russell Simmons was there ok??? I went with the lovely Mary from Om Bites. I was already sweating the first five minutes into the asana but my legs were feeling pretty good. The looseness at the bottom of the leggings enable me to fold them up to my knee without any tightness around the leg. The high waist is a definite plus as I'm always fidgeting with the back to make sure my underwear isn't showing. No worries with these leggings and the truth is, I didn't look bad in them at all! I'm a size 12, sometimes 14 depending on the store and a size L almost felt a little TOO big on me but I didn't want to chance it with a Medium. I would have taken a photo of myself modelling them but I sweated in them way too much to post on the internet but trust me, I was very happy with them and would gladly wear them again, curves and all!

As part of celebrating Yoga Month, all Even Keel products are 20% off from Sept 1-30, 2008. Use promotion code "NYM2008" at checkout. Offer valid only through EvenKeelYoga.com. Even Keel is also available at Jivamukti Yoga studios.

Exercises To Increase Flexibility

Exercises To Increase Flexibility

The hip and the lower back, become tight without your knowing over a span of time. Any arthritic person has accumulated a lot of stiffness over the years. To undo this, the following postures should be practiced every day and become part of your lifestyle, so that by and by this core region of your body returns to its natural state of flexibility.

Caution: Those suffering from sciatica, slipped disc or serious back conditions should avoid exercise one and three. Exercise two should not be done by those with slipped disc, high blood pressure or vertigo.

Exercise 1

• Sit with your back straight and your legs stretched out
• Bend one leg and place it so that the heel touches the groin area
• Inhale and raise your arms up straight
• Exhale, bend forward to grasp the ankle or foot and bring the forehead down to touch the knee
• Hold for 10-30 seconds
• Repeat with the other leg.

Exercise 2

* Exercise 2

• Sit back on your heels, your knees together, your toes overlapping, your back straight and your palms on your knees
• Inhale, slowly raise both arms straight above your head
• Exhale and slowly bend forward your arms straight and in line with your ears. Rest the forehead on the floor, bring your palms together
• Hold for 30 seconds, your body relaxed and breathing normally
• Inhale, slowly raise your arms and your upper body, exhale and lower your arms to the start position.

Exercise 3

• Lie flat on your back, your arms beside you
• Bend your right knee to your chest, your foot pointing forward
• Interlock the fingers below the knee and bring the knee close to the chest
• Hold the position for a few seconds and relax the back
• Go back to the start position
• Repeat with the left leg and then go back to the start position
• Now draw both your knees to your chest
• Hold the position, breathing normally. Try and relax the back. Come back to start position

Ten Good Reasons to Practice Yoga

Ten Good Reasons to Practice Yoga

1. Yoga is not just for athletes, popstars and supermodels! Yoga is for everyone: young or old, male or female, healthy or sick. Yoga can always be adapted to your individual needs, whatever your circumstances.
2. Even if you are facing many challenges in life, it is easy to start doing yoga and you will experience instant benefits, such as stress-relief. Furthermore, once you begin to practice regularly, yoga will help you to live your life with renewed positivity and enthusiasm.
3. Yoga is safe. Where other forms of exercise might put a strain on your heart, muscles and joints, yoga, practiced properly (with awareness to your physical limitations), is a completely harmless form of exercise.
4. Yoga needs no special equipment. While there are a few props that might make your practice more comfortable, the only thing you need in order to do yoga is you.
5. Yoga both tones the respiratory system and helps you to breathe more fully, deeply and easily (thus increasing your oxygen intake), which in turn, will improve your physical and mental well-being.
6. Yoga improves the efficiency of your body systems, aiding digestion, the assimilation of nutrients and the elimination of toxins.
7. Yoga improves the quality of your sleep so that, when you wake up, you feel refreshed and full of vitality.
8. Yoga gives energy and helps you to channel your energy effectively so that you don't waste it on tension, stress and negativity.
9. Through practicing yoga techniques, you experience a genuine sense of outward tranquility, which eventually helps you achieve a deep state of inner peace, too.
10. Yoga is FUN!

Benefits of Yoga

Physical Benefits:

Yoga has both its preventive and therapeutic cures over ailing mind and body. Yoga improves all the problems associated with the body, like:

• increases flexibility in muscles and various muscular joints,
• strengthens the spinal cord,
• recovers back aches,
• improves muscular skeletal conditions, digestion and elimination,
• stimulates glands and endocrinal system,
• improves heart condition,
• proper blood circulation,
• recovers breathing disorder,
• boosts immune response,
• decreases cholesterol, diabetes,
• maintains blood pressure level,
• increases the stamina and
• maintains a balance and grace all over.

 

Psychic Cure:

Yoga releases stress, fatigue which has become the seat of all disorders in a modern life. It relieves the body from any kind of muscular strain or chronic strain, refreshes the body from fatigue, stress and body aches, helps to relax the body and mind, increases concentration and awareness, and frees the spirit.

Yoga as a Life Saving Tool:

Doctors around the world have echoed that Hatha yoga can relieve a number of potential life threatening diseases like arthritis, arteriosclerosis, chronic fatigue, AIDS, diabetes, asthma, obesity etc.

Yoga Higher Than Other Exercises:

Daily yoga is considered to be higher than mere performing of exercises. Yoga helps one to establish integrity among his outer self as well as his inner. If the postures are done correctly then yoga breeds a positive effect both in the inner and outer selves of an individual. Exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, biking can only look after the physical development of the body, whereas, yoga brings peace of mind, refreshes the body, releases stress, brings in good health, relaxation and happiness.

Yoga is For All:

Yoga bends over all human beings of all ages with positive and happy effect.

• For children yoga is fun which enhances better memory, better concentration level, physical fitness and discipline of mind.
• For teenagers, yoga helps them to restore their youthful energies into constructive work.
• It creates a positive vibe around the youngster thereby preventing any negative influence and helps him to regain his inner strength.
• In old age, yoga plays a vital role in recovering severe ailments and any muscular complications.
• During pregnancy, yoga helps a mother to cope up with the stress and fatigue thereby resuming her energies and happiness. Yoga also promotes good health to the child in her womb.
• Yoga is helpful in modern living as it counteracts numerous problems of modern existence.
• Daily performance of Asanas will uplift physical condition of a man and regular meditation increases his power of concentration and other latent spiritual powers.

 

Internal Transformation:

Besides, healing all physical disorders, yoga also heals the grossness that exists inside a mind and soul. It helps in releasing them thereby maintaining a harmony all through the body. It helps a man to strike a balance between his physical, mental and spiritual selves.

Establishes a Unity With The Divinity:

While your body remains in tune with your selves (physical, mental, spiritual) you start to establish a harmonious relationship with your inner self, thereby gaining a complete knowledge of one-self. This is what yoga aims at – Complete ‘self-development’ and total ‘self-realization’. Thus the mind is purified to be immersed in complete self-knowledge which results in perfect and virtuous living that every man craves for.

Aims of Yoga

Aims of Yoga:

 

Yoga offers both the goal and the means to reach it.

Yoga has a diverse range of things that it can offer. It could be said that a primary goal of yoga is to gain balance and control in one's life. To free one from confusion and distress. To provide a sense of calm that comes from the practice of yogic exercises and the practice of breath control.

The practice of yoga exercises aims at overcoming the limitations of the body. Other forms of exercises are good but good is not enough, they strain the muscles, joints, the entire skeletal system and cause free radical damage at a cellular level.

Yoga however realigns and rejuvenates the body inside and out, yoga frees the mind from the negative feelings caused by the fast pace of modern life.

The practice of yoga installs optimism within you. It helps you to focus better and overcome any obstacles in your way while on your road to perfect health, spiritual contentment, and total well being.

Yoga will teach you that the goal of every individual's life should be to take the inner journey inside one's self. When there is perfect harmony between mind and body, we achieve total balance and control.

Yoga teaches us that challenges that we all face indicate themselves in either a physical or mental form. When our physical state is not perfect, this causes an imbalance in our mental state. The practice of yoga helps us to overcome that imbalance.

Yogic poses can cure physical ailments and correct the alignment of the body. By learning the practice of yoga you will become totally responsible for yourself Yoga poses tone the whole body, they strengthen bones and muscles, correct posture, improve breathing, and increase energy.

This physical well being has a strengthening
and calming impact on the mind. 

Practicing yoga poses cleanses and detoxifies the body, by increasing the circulation of fresh blood through the body, you will be able to cleanse and flush out toxins which are the direct result of an irregular lifestyle, unhealthy habits, and poor posture.

Regular practice of the stretches, twists, bends, and inversions - the basic movements of yoga poses - restores strength and stamina to the body. Poses together with the control of breath, rectify physical, physiological, and psychological disorders.

Asanas are based on the three basic human postures of standing, sitting, or lying down. But they are not a series of movements to be followed mechanically. They have a logic, which must be fully comprehended if the pose is to be practiced correctly. The end result of each pose is achieved when all the parts of the body are positioned correctly, with full understanding of the foundations.

To achieve this, you must look to understand the structure of the pose. Realize the fundamentals by imagining how you will adjust and arrange each part of your body, in the given movements. Then, mould the body to fit the structure of the pose, making sure that the balance between both sides of the body is perfect, until there is no undue stress on any one organ, muscle, bone, or joint, instead they are working together as one.