The dictionary definition of warm up is the act of preparation for a game, performance, or workout, involving gentle, loosening exercises. To perform the best on the field, stage, tennis court or a yoga mat, warm ups are absolutely essential. Many in the yoga world agree warm ups are important. But with the push of …
The teachings of gulob jamoon
Just hearing the words gulob jamoon, a delicious dessert from India, could make one salivate. And if this means you have one foot out the door to the nearest Indian restaunt for an all-you-can-eat buffet, I don't blame you. This dessert, as popular as it is, can be a cause for sorrow which we happened to discover …
Chair Surya Namaskar
"Since my illness, I'm not able to get down to the floor to do my Surya Namaskar practice. When you come to India next week can you show me yoga poses to get back to my previous level of fitness?" This was my mother's query approximately 10 years ago. This gave me an opportunity to …
Yoga Day 2017
Many of us live most of our lives in suburban homes or apartments where our eyes barely see nature's green. Our ears are accustomed to reacting to honking or announcements as we spend long hours in cars or riding the trains. Often our noses catch the whiff of spice coming from the kitchen or a …
Shavasana – Corpse Pose
A soft voice floated upon my ears. "Please don’t get up; (pause) not just yet. Continue to breathe and let the earth hold your body." Without hesitation I settled right back on the yoga mat breathing deeply. The melodious flute blending with the pitter-patter of the raindrops on the roof soothed my being. No cares at this …
Daily Pranayama
Thinking back to the beginnings of my pranayama feels like a different lifetime. It is interesting how the body and mind can be harnessed once you commit to this training. Now, a day of missed practice feels unbalanced; more than one day feels like I can't breathe. Not in the literal sense of course. What I …
Preparation for Pranayama
Although first day of spring left us buried in snow this year, the only thing we can be sure of is that Mother Nature will prevail. She will arrive in all her colorful grandeur bringing with her a basket full of allergies for those privileged few. If you are one of those (un)fortunate people, this blog is …
How to study the YogaSutras
Scriptures or religious texts may be used for many reasons; mostly to provide meaning and purpose, and to evoke a deeper connection with the Divine. Many look to these texts to the convey sacred truths and use them to promote ritualistic practices and moralistic experiences that foster communal identity. But the YogaSutra is not a religious text; notice …
The YogaSutra
There are people who say that most texts - scripture or academic can be a tedious read. While some knowledge can be gained from studying these texts and their various interpretations, they realize that 'true' understanding is largely intuitive - a continuous outpouring of 'aha' moments. Others while enquiring about the phase of life you are in …
asana – seat or pose
"Why can't you sit still?" I remember admonishing my daughter when she was little. Picture a 6 year old with two pigtails sitting on the stool ready to practice piano. Her legs hanging half way up and swinging. One hand disappearing from the keys every few minutes to brush her hair away from the face …
