Dear Friends and Family of Alive and Healthy,

We are writing to wish you all a very Happy Holiday to you and yours!  We hope that this winter holiday season has brought you great fellowship and some quiet time for reflection.

I know that my most recent letters to you have been quick class announcements and greetings from my heart.  Today, I wish to write a little more.

As a spiritual teacher, my duty is to help you and yours with establishing a life that makes sense and to regain your health & vigor.  This effort requires honesty, trust, humor, science and courage.  It is educational and scientific.  It is a training program. Recently Pandit Rajmani of the Himalayan Institute spoke of this training:
‎”I must not let my mind continue making the list of all the follies. I must not allow the mind to count how many times I have failed, how many times I have suffered and how many times people have treated me unjust fully. That is old story. This world is wonderful, beautiful. I must train my eyes to see that beauty and joy that is inherent in this world. I must train my mind to look for the beauty and joy that is inherent in this world. I must train my soul to become interested and cultivate taste for that most absolute, unsurpassed beauty and joy that resides right next to itself at the same very lotus of the heart.” Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD, Living Tantra V

I see suffering… more than ever.  I see it in all ages, races and vocations.  With proper training, this suffering can end.  Our deepest fears are birthing loneliness, purposelessness, anger, doubt, guilt and self-hatred.  The only antidote to this tragedy is love….but it must be love that makes sense.  Love that is sustainable.  This is where the training begins, for a lasting love requires a healthy diet that supports both the mind and body; an exercise program that improves endurance and releases tension; a self-understanding that allows us to heal ourselves, help ourselves, forgive ourselves and get back in the game.  The greatest service you can do for this world is to care for your body, breath and mind.  Only a truly happy person can help this world.  Such happiness comes from the heart of the Divine, not from worldly pleasures.  You can attain this.

Spirituality today means ‘sustainability’ – created by vibrancy, wisdom, community, and values that embrace all differences.  You must develop a personal philosophy that allows you to incorporate all your life experiences and move forward.  The past that creates pain must be met with loving wisdom and practicality.  We have all been hurt and we have all disappointed others, but only in the present moment we call ‘now’ is there a place where we can skillfully choose our next step.

I pray that our courses and classes will help you move closer to a joy that cannot be dimmed, a courage that never leaves you and a tranquility that will always beam from your heart.  I know that our bodies are hurting, our minds torture us and there is so much pain; but, I also know there are time tested solutions to all of these challenges.  I have trained for over thirty years to help you.

I am here to meet with you in person, online and by telephone to discuss whatever grieves you, kills your hopes or holds you back.  The great sages say never delay doing a good thing for your mind, heart and soul.

Thank you for allowing all of us at Alive and Healthy to be a part of your life.  We are honored to be with you.

Classes and More – in Person and Online
2011 has been an amazing year for Alive and Healthy.  Our seminars and classes in Wisconsin and Texas have been well attended and filled with sincere folks seeking health, happiness and freedom from all fear.
And now after 6 months of testing, you can join us online or by telephone from anywhere in the USA.  Currently we are using the www.GoToMeeting.com technology to allow families from all 50 states to join us for classes held on-site at Alive and Healthy Institute.  Please email us if you wish to join us online. Thank you!

December 29
Thursday, December 29, 2011, 7:00 – 8:30 pm – At the Office!
The Science of Sadhana, Part 2 – learning how to apply the texts and techniques to build your foundation of fearlessness, service and community.  As the New Year is only a few days away, now is the time for recommitting and refining your practice for the new year.

January 1^st
We welcome the New Year in Dallas with a special fire offering and celebration at our home on January 1^st from 10am – 11:30am.  Group meditation will be held from 9:00 am – 9:30am, followed by chai and fellowship until 10 am.  Your family and friends are welcome to join us.  Please do RSVP to reserve a cup of chai and a place at the fire.

January 2^nd
Monday nights, Starting Jan. 2^nd, Blair teaches at Krama Yoga Center
Meditation with Movement and Stillness– 4 week class, Jan. 2, 9, 16 & 23.
6:00 – 7:00 pm Movement with Ricky Tran
7:15 pm – 8:45 pm Meditation & Stillness with Blair
This is a four-week class that combines the movement of hatha with the inner dynamics of meditation.  The class is for adults and teens seeking a masterful approach to stress management and strengthening of self-confidence.
Location:  Krama Yoga Center, 2760 E. Trinity Mills Rd. #120, Carrollton, TX 75006,  469-324-9642
Located in the Briarwyck Shopping Center on Trinity Mills Road at Marsh Lane, by the 24 Hour Fitness.
http://www.kramayogacenter.com

Thursday, January 5th, Group Meditation, 7:00 – 8:30 pm – At the Office!
The first Thursday of every month is for group meditation.  Everyone is welcome!

Sunday, January 8th, new times and new format:
9:00 – 9:30 am Group Meditation
9:30 – 10:00 am  Chai and Fellowship
10:00 – 11:30 am Satsang with Blair
Theme for 2012: The Science of Sadhana –  an introduction to the texts and techniques to build your foundation of fearlessness, service and community.  This Sunday we will begin exploring the Perennial Psychology of the Bhagavad-Gita, this Swami Rama’s commentary on the psychotherapeutic view of this great text.  Feel welcome to bring any version of the Gita that you love.

Could You Help Us Help?
We want to be more available online, in print and in person to those seeking help from all suffering.  As you know, no one is ever turned away.  As more people have a lack of finances, the only way we can increase our community outreach is to have your support.
We humbly seek your tax-deductible donations to help us fund programs, equipment and our web-presence.
The Alive and Healthy Institute is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt spiritual organization and we are happy to receive your donations online, by check or charge or cash.
You can mail us your contribution to Alive and Healthy Institute
14114 Dallas Parkway, Suite 260
Dallas, Texas 75254
Thank you very much!

The Topic of Money for Your Class….wait….it’s good news
Alive and Healthy wants to help you save money.  As you know all of our classes have been by Love Offering this year.  This means that you pay only what you can afford to give and feel welcome to come for free as your finances dictate.  We have always suggested a Love Offering of $20 per class, and yet accepted whatever is in the offering plate.  However, some of you have been graciously paying $20 or more several times a week – while we need and appreciate your support, we karmically think we should balance the situation.  The auto-pay solution begins January 1st!

Auto-pay begins January 1^st, 2012 and offers you the following benefits:
•  $108 per month for all weekly classes held at Alive and Healthy; $159 for couples and families per month
•  Free 20-30 minute meeting with Blair each month for spiritual counseling and practice refinement
•  50% discount on all Alive and Healthy ‘in-house’ weekend seminars and special events
•  20% discount on books and Neti-pots

We hope that you will see the benefits of Auto-Pay and enroll.  Alive and Healthy will continue its policy of a suggested a Love Offering of $20 per class or $30 per family.  You can still pay only what you can afford to give and feel welcome to come for free as your finances dictate.

Have a very Happy Holiday!  We look forward to seeing you real soon!  Thank you for your donation.

Yours in Service,

Blair and Terri

Happy Holiday Greetings!  I hope your Thanksgiving gatherings were filled with friends and family dining together.  I am happy to announce that I will be back at Blue Sky’s Grafton campus for four days in December.

On Saturday morning, December 10^th, I have two new seminars for you and, again, they are free (if you wish).  Please join me for The Science of Happiness and stay for How to Be Your Own Psychotherapist.

As a thank-you for your kind support and interest in holistic care, both seminars are by donation only.  If you are financially strapped these days, please come for free.
Details in just a moment…

I will be available to meet with you and your family for private consultations at Blue Sky’s School of Massage in Grafton:
• Friday, December 9^th, 2 pm – 6:30 pm
• Saturday, December 10^th, 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm – remember, I have two great seminars for you on Saturday morning (see below)
• Sunday, December 11^th, 2 pm – 6:30 pm
• Monday, December 12^th, 3 pm – 6:30 pm
Please email me to schedule an appointment.

The Science of Happiness — 9:00 – 10:30 am on Saturday, December 10th
A happy person is clear, tranquil and humble; and whose family shows that they can live together with diversity – diverse views, thoughts, and inclinations – all under the same roof.
This seminar will help you learn:
•  The Art and Science of Inner Kindness –how to be kind to yourself in all situations and circumstances.
• How to greet Honor & Insult, Loss & Gain equally.  This is the antidote to self-condemnation; a skill to share with your family and colleagues.
• To understand that the greatest of all friends is within you.
Fee: By Donation Only, Suggested Love Offering is $25 per person, $35 per family.
Date and Time: Saturday, December 10^th, 9:00 – 10:30 am at Blue Sky in Grafton

How to Be Your Own Psychotherapist — 11:00 am – 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 10th
It seems that this world is not for the weak and meek.  It is the energetic, vibrant , strong, healthy, powerful people who feel entitled to achieve.  And according to all accounts, they do just that.  They achieve their goals.
We call them the fortunate few.  We all want to join them.  So, what causes us to sabotage our own best efforts?  What stops us from joining the ‘fortunate few?’
The Sages say that self-condemnation (identifying yourself with your mistakes) is the root cause of our problems.  Once you condemn yourself, you lose your self-respect and this leads to self-hatred.  Later, you will project your self-hatred onto others and then you will start to isolate yourself from others.  Isolation comes from falsely thinking that others know our weaknesses and condemn us. How to Be Your Own Psychotherapist is a fun filled hour of stories and strategies of how to work with your mind and relationships.  I will introduce you to ancient, time tested methods on how to counsel and train your mind to be your friend.
•  Learn how to use a working schematic of the mind, breath, body & senses
•  Understand the source and trigger of impulses and urges
•  To achieve mastery over our mind’s inconsistencies, we must transform our attitude towards our mind.  We will discuss three powerful ways to transform your attitude today.
Fee: By Donation Only, Suggested Love Offering is $15 per person, $25 per family.
Date and Time: Saturday, December 10th, 11:00 am – 12:00 noon at Blue Sky in Grafton.

I hope you can join me on Saturday morning for these presentations.  It will be a fun and interactive time with loads of new ideas and stories.

As always, I most certainly welcome you to make a private appointment so we can discuss how to apply this knowledge to benefit you and your family.

To help you reserve your spot today, please email me today.
If you have questions, please call Alive and Healthy and leave us a message.
I look forward to seeing you real soon!

Happy Winter Holidays to you and yours,

Blair Lewis

Blue Sky School of Massage in Grafton
350 Double Tree Lane
Grafton, WI   53024
(Near the Family Farm on Port Washington Road, between Hwy. 60 and Hwy. C.)
Directions to Blue Sky are online

The study of Sanskrit gives the sincere yoga student access to the profound aspects of the original yogic texts.  Sanskrit is a language of sounds (not words) heard by the Sages and Rishis in deep meditation; these sounds are an expression and encapsulation of the consciousness of the Divine.  Reciting these ancient hymns with precision and respect can lead the aspirant to the source of Truth, Happiness and Bliss.  I hope you will join us in this pursuit of the Divine Experience through the study of Sanskrit.

Here are the details of his seminar:

Thursday, November 17^th, 7:00 – 8:30 pm, Fee: Love Offering only
Satsang on Sanskrit with Guest Instructor Jon Janaka and Blair Lewis
Jon has come down from wintery Wisconsin to provide us with a great weekend seminar on The Spirituality of Sanskrit.  Tonight will be a fascinating question and answer session on mantras, sound, vibration and Sanskrit.

The Spirituality of Sanskrit– the language of the Gods
Friday, Saturday and Sunday Seminar, November 18, 19, and 20^th
Fee:        Early Registration: $149.00 per person; $225 per household.
At the Door: $199.00 per person
Individual Class Sessions are $35 each.
Yoga Instructors may qualify for special pricing, please write us for details.
Work-study Scholarships are available.
Please email us for payment arrangments.

Friday Evening, November 18^th, 7:00 – 9:00 pm
•  Introduction to Sanskrit as a Spiritual Practice
•  Language and Consciousness

Saturday Morning, November 19^th, 9:00 am – 12 noon
•  Sanskrit Alphabet

Saturday Afternoon, 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
•  Prayers of the Tradition
•  Mantra and Meditation

Sunday Morning, November 20^th, 9:00 am – 12 noon
•  Prayers of the Tradition
•  Recap and review
•  Home Practice of Sanskrit

SPECIAL GATHERING – at the home of Theresa Oswald and Blair Lewis
Saturday Evening, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, Fee:  Love Offering only
– A Special Master Class & Satsang on Shiva Sankalpa Sukta

We look forward to seeing you at The Spirituality of Sanskrit – the language of the Gods.

Location:
Alive and Healthy Institute
14114 Dallas Parkway, Suite 260
Dallas, Texas 75254

• Date: Thursday, October 13th
• Time: 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
• Tuition: $35
• Location: Alive and Healthy Institute
  14114 Dallas Parkway, Suite 260
  Dallas, Texas 75254

Registration Required: Contact Alive and Healthy online to reserve your seat, please email Blair Lewis, Blair@AliveandHealthy.com or call toll-free 1-888-414-9500.

Do you feel lost about what to do and the how’s and when’s?… Perfect, join us for:
Pressure & Priorities – Creating More Space in Your Day
When your life feels cramped, crowded and depleted, you need more time and more space. Only powerful and extraordinary techniques can help you. Here is where you learn them. Right here, right now!

• Discover the Loopholes in the Laws of Time
• Learn to apply physics, physiology and pranic science for overwhelm
• Stop the excuses and start getting things done
• Never Feel Rushed & Overwhelmed Again!

In over 1,000 published research studies, various methods of meditation have been linked to changes in metabolism, mood, blood pressure, brain activity, and immune response. Meditation has been used in clinical settings as a method of stress and pain reduction.

Research has demonstrated the benefits of meditation for the following conditions:

Anxiety

Blood pressure

Cancer

Chronic pain

Cognitive function in the elderly

Coronary artery disease

Depression

Eating disorders

Fibromyalgia

Happiness

Psoriasis

Serum cholesterol

Smoking cessation

Tension headaches

Meditation can be one of the most important components of any health plan. Its unique ability to activate the relaxation response and foster mental stability provides a foundation for healing. Meditation is medicine that activates the body’s innate healing response.

If you are interested in learning more about meditation and establishing your own meditation practice consider the Meditation Foundation Master Class. This series of three classes builds a foundation for your meditation practice, explores the health benefits of meditation and the power of group meditation.

Instructors:  Theresa Oswald, MD and Blair Lewis

To register for upcoming classes please email Theresa Oswald, Terri@AliveandHealthy.com

If you deny me, I will come back.

I am your thoughts and I’ll cut you no slack.

Millions in numbers are me and my friends.

We fill up your noggin from end-to-end.

Your equating us with “good” or “bad” allows us to last,

And allows us to replay for you all of the past.

As you fall victim to your very own mind,

We’re not taking the blame for your self-made bind.

But if you knew how the mind works & didn’t let it run astray,

Then the fun we have tormenting you, would simply go away.

Jordan Shapiro, MD is a physician completing his Pediatric Residency at the University of Cincinnati and a long time staff member of Alive and Healthy. He is a life long student of meditation and an avid traveler to plains of suffering all over the world — serving those most downtrodden in any manner possible.

This two-part class will provide you with valuable insights into how to frame your life in a manner that inspires and steadies your view of yourself and your world.

“Contemplation is not a skill limited to the spiritual seeker, rather it is an essential skill for every man, woman and child.”  — page 250, The Happiness Revolution

For over 30 years people have come to me complaining about their mind harassing them.  At first they did not realize what it was, they thought it was their neighbor, child, boss, or spouse.  I taught them powerful, quick-acting methods to discover the truth, for the problem was their mind and the cure is contemplation.  Transforming the mind from foe to friend is possible for everyone.

Jubilant with their discovery, they knew their nemesis…. but now, what to do?  They needed to cleanse their mind of harassing behaviors, but the source was unconscious.  How do you fix something you aren’t even aware of?  The answer is:  align yourself with the deeper forces of the unconscious and learn to cultivate & refine them.  There is a type of relaxation that cleanses the mind, I call it, “Relaxing Past the Past.”  It is easy to learn and easy to practice.

Contemplation allows you the time and the space to sort out distractions and make powerful life-changing decisions.  Relaxation can interrupt the flow of power that keeps you doubting and missing opportunities.  Get your mind on your side and live your life.

“Contemplation hones and refines your ability to listen to your conscience.”

– page 254, The Happiness Revolution

Instructors:  Blair Lewis, author of The Happiness Revolution and Theresa Oswald, MD
Part One: Thursday, Sept 8, 7-9 pm
Part Two:  Thursday, Sept 15^th, 7-9 pm
Fee: $49 per person – or – $79 per household
Bring: Pen and notepaper; a curious mind; a desire to be a little philosophical & very relaxed.
Location: Ask for location and directionx

This year we will be offering two classes of principles and techniques to overcome fear and stress.

Join Anne Schanz, PhD, Theresa Oswald, MD, and Pandit Blair Lewis for a dynamic afternoon of fun, fellowship and freedom from fear. And it is free!

Part One

Conquering Fear – consciousness yoga in action. Unveil the effects of unconscious roles we play in everyday life with Anne Schanz PhD a holistic counselor and expert in yoga psychology. Get first hand experience of the mind body connection and what it can do for you with avid yogini and integrative physician Theresa Oswald MD.

12:30 – 1:45pm on Monday, September 5, Labor Day

What to Bring: Pen, paper and an open mind. Be prepared to laugh, learn and grow!

Part Two

Conquering Fear – consciousness yoga in action. See the endless possibilities of befriending your mind with Blair Lewis, Pandit of the Himalayan Tradition and ardent yoga student/teacher for 30 years. Harness your closest ally in conquering fear; your breath. Explore practical pranayama with avid yogini and integrative physician Theresa Oswald MD.

2:00 – 3:15pm on Monday, September 5, Labor Day
What to Bring: Pen, paper and an open mind. Be prepared to laugh, learn and grow!

Both classes will be held off campus at the:

Center for Spiritual Living

4801 Spring Valley, Suite 115

Dallas, Texas 75244

Map

To Reserve Your Seat: Please email us at Terri@aliveandhealthy.com

Everyone is Welcome!  Both classes are free of charge.  Love offerings are welcome.

• Battle of the Bands www.soundsofsupport.com
• Saturday, August 27
• 6:30pm – 11:30pm
• Ticket info Click Here!
• “The Rock”
  2435 E. Hebron Pkwy
  Carrollton, TX 75010

Our Sponsors

CAKEMIX RECORDING is a full service audio production facility, specializing in music and audio recording, and audio postproduction services. We believe that great sound makes a difference and created CAKEMIX to provide and capture great sound. Designed by nationally recognized acoustic architects, Russ Berger Design Group, our rooms are true instruments of sound, creating the perfect environment to capture and sweeten your special sound! Visit their site at: www.cakemixrecording.com

FAULCONER PRODUCTIONS MUSIC writes and produces music for feature films, television, broadcast advertising, corporate communications and Internet broadcast. Veteran film and television composer, Bruce Faulconer has been recognized internationally, having composed music for such number one rated shows as DRAGONBALL Z, and long-running television shows including YOUR NEW HOUSE, REALITY OF SPEED, YOUR HOUSE & HOME, and Kenneth Cooper’s, TO LIFE. Our diverse body of work has been exciting and rewarding and provided us the opportunity to build CAKEMIX RECORDING providing the highest standards in quality sound and music recording! Visit their site at: www.faulconer.com

“As spiritual scientists, the sages of the Himalayas were interested in discovering the anatomy of health and happiness, stamina and weakness, and joy and grief.  In an attempt to find lasting peace, they tried to understand the source of fear and the way to eliminate it once and for all.  Their limitless appetite for unveiling the mysteries of life enabled them to invest all their resources – physical, mental and spiritual.  This gave them access to a world filled with infinite possibilities – a world beyond our normal understanding.”

“All of us want to be happy.  In search of happiness, we are continually adding new nuances in the fields of science and technology, religion and politics, and trade and commerce.  Experience tells us that the more we possess, the more fearful we become, and yet our desire for power and possessions forces us to exhaust all our energies acquiring everything possible.  On the one hand, we want to be happy.  On the other hand, we do not want to let go of that which makes us miserable.  And yet we fail to see why we are caught between wanting and not wanting, freedom and bondage.”

Pandit Tigunait will share the techniques and insights that he has gleaned from a lifetime of study and commitment to helping individuals and families overcome fear, doubt and anger.  His presentation will delight you with a wonderful blend of wisdom, humor and humility.  He will be speaking at the Center for Spiritual Living in North Dallas.  Details are online at:  www.AliveandHealthy.com

The Biography of Pandit Tigunait

The spiritual head of the Himalayan Institute, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ph.D. is the successor of Swami Rama of the Himalayas. Lecturing and teaching world-wide for more than 30 years, he is the author of fourteen books including his autobiography Touched by Fire: The Ongoing Journey of a Spiritual Seeker and the best-selling At the Eleventh Hour: The Biography of Swami Rama, and is a regular contributor to Yoga International magazine.

Pandit Tigunait holds two doctorates: one in Sanskrit from the University of Allahabad in India, and another in Oriental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Family tradition gave Pandit Tigunait access to a vast range of spiritual wisdom preserved in both the written and oral traditions. Before meeting his master, Pandit Tigunait studied Sanskrit, the language of the ancient scriptures of India ; Pali, the language of Buddhist scriptures; Prakrit, the language of Jaina scriptures; and Zend-Avesta, the language of the Zorastrian tradition. In 1976, Swami Rama ordained Pandit Tigunait into the 5,000-year-old lineage of the Himalayan masters.

While living in the world with his wife and two children, Pandit Tigunait walks in the footsteps of his master — he writes, teaches, guides and administers the work and mission of the Himalayan Institute, a multi-national humanitarian organization, while joyfully maintaining his personal commitment to his spiritual pursuits.

“Live in the world, and yet remain above it.  Find a balance between the sacred and mundane, and between worldly success and inner fulfillment.  There is a way to find freedom in this world, you do not need to try to find freedom from this world.”  –  these are the core teachings of the Himalayan sages.

Conquering Fear — The Science of Self-Transformation

An Evening with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ph.D., the Spiritual Head of the Himalayan Institute

Tuesday Evening, July 26^th, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm

Location:  Center for Spiritual Living, 4801 Spring Valley, Suite 115, Dallas, Texas 75244

Fee:  By Donation Only, Suggested Love Offering is $15

An Evening with Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ph.D., the Spiritual Head of the Himalayan Institute

Tuesday Evening, July 26th  from  7:00 – 9:00 pm

Location:  Center for Spiritual Living, 4801 Spring Valley, Suite 115, Dallas, Texas 75244

Fee:  By Donation Only, Suggested Love Offering is $15

For Reserved Seating (which is strongly encouraged), please contact: Jill Pickett at 469-544-4823 or email Jill@aliveandhealthy.com

Pandit Tigunait will help you learn to:

•  Understand the source of fear  — the source of fear and doubt can be known and understood.

• Transform fear and self-demeaning habits by retraining your mind to hear and heed the voice of the heart.

• Apply the science of self-transformation — for your personal growth, worldly success and lasting relationships.

Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, Ph.D., the spiritual head of the Himalayan Institute, is the successor of Swami Rama of the Himalayas. Lecturing and teaching worldwide for over 25 years, he is the author of fourteen books, including his autobiography Touched by Fire: The Ongoing Journey of a Spiritual Seeker and the best-selling At the Eleventh Hour: The Biography of Swami Rama, and is a regular contributor to Yoga International magazine.

Pandit Tigunait holds two doctorates: one in Sanskrit from the University of Allahabad in India, and another in Oriental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania. Family tradition gave Pandit Tigunait access to a vast range of spiritual wisdom preserved in both the written and oral traditions. Before meeting his master, Pandit Tigunait studied Sanskrit, the language of the ancient scriptures of India, as well as the languages of the Buddhist, Jaina, and Zoroastrian traditions. In 1976, Swami Rama ordained Pandit Tigunait into the 5,000-year-old lineage of the Himalayan Masters.

Why We Fight – a Memorial Day Weekend Special Event

This Sunday we will devote the entire two hours of Old Fashion Yoga to the practices and philosophies of creating a lasting peace.  The first 14 registrants will receive a free copy of the book “Why We Fight – yoga practices for lasting peace” by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait.

We will view war through the eyes of Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh guru and his famous student Banda Singh Bahadur and share in their famous dialogue about the mis-use of non-violence.  Then we will peer through the eyes of Arjuna and Krishna as they debate war in the Bhagavad Gita.

We will close with yogic and tantric practices for establishing a lasting peace within ourselves and in the hearts of those with whom we live and work.

A great Sunday morning of technique and fellowship.

Tuition: Old Fashion Yoga has a suggested love offering of $20 per person or $30 per household.  However, everyone one is welcome regardless of their ability to pay.

Those seeking a delicious cup of chai must RSVP and arrive by 8:50 am.  Thank you.

Location: please email us for the location and directions.  Use Blair (at) aliveandhealthy (dot) com

Please join us.  Happy Holidays!

This is a 6 week series held on Thursday evenings to review, refine and expand your knowledge presented in the Living Tantra series by the Himalayan Institute.  For present and future student of  the Institute’s 66 hour online and live program designed to systematically deepen your personal practice and advance your practice to the next level.  Our Study Group is designed for sincere seekers and students interested in becoming healthier, happier and more compassionate.

Instructors: Blair Lewis and Theresa Oswald, MD

Email for Location: Blair (at) aliveandhealthy.com

Tuition: By Love Offering (suggested donation $20 per class or $108 for all six classes)

Week One 5/12/2011            Tantric Overview of Traditions and Techniques 7:00 – 8:30 pm

• What is Tantra?
• How will Tantra help my personal practice and self-transformation?
• Prana definition and explanation.
• Explore Prana awareness, collection and direction.

Week Two 5/26/2011            Tantric Rituals 7:00 – 8:30 pm

• Science of Agni Vidya.
• Technical aspects and ingredients for external fire offerings (Bahir Yaga).
• Power of group collective practice.
• Understand Antar Yaga (internal fire offering).

Week Three 6/2/2011          Healing Power of Tantra 7:00 – 8:30 pm

• How can Tantra benefit yourself and others?
• Understanding the law of cause and effect.
• Qualifications of a healer and healer’s toolbox.
• Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra.

Week Four 6/9/2011          Prana Shakti and Kundalini Shakti 7:00 – 8:30 pm

Please note the 2 week gap between class #4 and class #5.  June 23 is class #5.

• Explanation of the body as a living shrine.
• Agni Sara and the Manipura Chakra
• The Difference Between Prana Shakti and Kundalini Shakti
• Learn tantric method of combining asana, pranayama, mudras and mantras.
• Introduction to Saundaryalahari.
• Exploring Kundalini Shakti, the primordial pool of energy and consciousness.

Week Five 6/23/2011         Tantra and the Lotus of the Heart 7:00 – 8:30 pm

• Understand the real role of tools and means in spiritual practice.
• Healing the Heart; How and Why?
• Discuss Saundaryalahari verse 38.
• Complete practice of Shakti Sadhana.

Week Six 6/30/2011        The Power of Sri Vidya 7:00 – 8:30 pm

Please note the 2 week gap between class #4 and class #5.  June 23 is class #5.

• Definition and expanded discussion of Sri Vidya.
• Connecting to the Divinity in you.
• Discover the Power of collective consciousness
• Power of Mantra and Initiation.

Saturday, May 14, 2011 from 9 am – 5 pm

Prana-feel it, taste it, experience it!

Nourish and enliven your practice by accessing your internal storehouse of strength, vitality, will power and determination.

Let us explore Prana Shakti, the force within us that allows us to move.  Prana Shakti is the power to be and the power to become.

This is an experiential workshop on advanced techniques of pranayama using lectures, videos and practicums.  Participants will help prepare a delicious pranic-laden vegetarian lunch.

9 – 10 am chai and practice

• Pranayama
• Relaxation practice
• Additional Pranayama
• Mantra meditation

10-11 am Prana Samvedana practicum

11am -12 pm discussion with questions & answers weaving together morning’s practice

12-2 pm lunch (hands on cooking and nutrition class with prana rich food to enhance your practice).   We will be cooking and enjoying Toor Dal with mango and Saag Paneer.  Learn about phytonutrients, tamasic, rajasic and sattvic foods and how they impact your practice.

2-3 pm Prana Dharana practicum

3-4 pm practice

• Relaxation practice
• Prana Samvedana
• Prana Dharana
• Mantra meditation

4-5 pm chai and synthesis of day’s experiences

Instructors: Blair Lewis and Theresa Oswald, MD

Email for Location: Blair (at) aliveandhealthy.com

Tuition: $95 per person/$150 per household couple.  Scholarships available.  Due to food preparation, reservations are required.  Please contact ASAP if you wish to attend.

All of a sudden May is here and the first 2 weeks are loaded with activities …and you are invited to join in!

• May 5 • Thursday 12 noon
  Blair speaks at Rotary Club of Carrollton & Farmers Branch. Guests and fellow Rotarians are welcome! Topic: Humanitarian Service for Personal and Global Transformation
• May 5th,  6:30 – 8:30pm (Thursday evening)
  Fire Offering at our home. Chai at 5:45 for those who email to reserve a cup.
• May 8th, 9:00 – 11 am (Mother’s Day)
  Fire Offering at our home in the morning
• May 12th, 7:00 – 8:30 pm (Thursday evening)
  Living Tantra Study Group begins at our home. Click here to learn more about this wonderful study group.
• May 14th, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Saturday)
  $95 for the day/$150 per household
  Advancing Your Practice – the Diet of a Meditator. Vegetarian lunch is included
• May 15th, 9:00 – 11:00 am (Sunday morning)
  Old Fashion Yoga at our home
• May 16th, 4:00 – 5:30pm (Monday afternoon)
  Fire Offering at our home. Chai at 3:45 for those who email to reserve a cup

Here are some of the details:

Fire Offerings
There is a suggested love offering of $20 per person/$30 per household for each event and class. This does not include the seminar on May 14, “Advancing your Practice.” Scholarships are available for all programs.

• If you need directions to our home, please email me and I will send you the details.
• If you would like to know more about the fire offerings, please email me and I will send you some information.
• If you would like to know more about the Living Tantra Study Group, please email me and I will send you the details. I will also get this posted on our website this week.

May 14th • Advancing Your Practice
$95 for the day/$150 per household

Wholly Cow! You are going to love this! Learn how to deepen your meditation practice with personal instruction and rare videos of Swami Rama. You will also learn about brain nutrition for enhancing your meditation practice. We will cook together, eat together and meditate together. Come prepared to sit, stretch, breath, cook and rejuvenate.
Includes a delicious vegetarian lunch, six hours of lectures and videos, and practicum’s in the meditation hall and in the kitchen.

Please RSVP. See you soon. Thank you.
Best Wishes, Blair & Terri

What proof do we have that this is true? Well there are many indigenous groups of people around the world that have very low evidences of these diseases. Research shows that the traditional, plant-based rural diets of Asia produce much lower rates of certain cancers, heart disease, obesity and, in some cases, osteoporosis and other chronic, degenerative diseases than the rates seen in the United States.

The Asian diet is composed mainly of rice, whole grains, minimally processed whole foods, large amounts of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds with small amounts of vegetable oil and a moderate consumption of plant-based beverages mainly tea. It is a tasty and sustainable diet. Plants are packed with the phytonutrients we seek out in vitamins and supplements. Plants are where we derive anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, anti-inflammatory agents, immune supporters, rejuvenating substances and cholesterol lowering agents. How convenient that these amazing health promoting chemical are found in something we need to eat daily, food.

The Asian diet is the polar opposite to SAD, standard American diet consumes 90% more animal protein, twice the fat and 3 times less fiber. Unlike Western diets, meat is rarely the main dish of any meal but rather an accent or garnish.

If you would like to learn more about global health trends in nutrition, see what’s cooking on, Saturday, March 26th, 2011 at Duo, All Things Culinary, 7721 Inwood Road, Dallas, TX 75209 ( call to register at 214-884-2979).

Food For: Your Health, Pan Asian Style | 10:30 am -12:30 pm | $45

Dr. Theresa Oswald and Lorin Grant

Menu:
Miso Soup with Soba Noodles
Roasted Sweet Potato Chips and Asparagus with Wasabi Sour Cream
“Fried Rice” – Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables & Quail Egg
Green Tea “Ice Cream”

March, 2011 Details

• All Levels Hatha Yoga Class
• Beginners always welcome
• 3 classes at 3 locations – March 4, 5 & 6, 2011

How Much?

• Name your own donation
• $10 will plant 2 trees
• 100% does to Trees for Tibet

When & Where?

Friday, March 4, 2011

• 6:30-8:30pm
• Yoga Balance
• 5881 Virginia Parkway
• McKinney, TX 75071
• www.yogabalancestudio.com

Saturday, March 5, 2011

• 9:00-10:30am
• Dragonfly Studios
• 9028 Garland Road
• Dallas, TX 75218
• www.dragonflystudiosdallas.com

Sunday, March 6, 2011

• 6:30-8:00pm
• Tsada Yoga
• 1409 South Lamar, Loft 745
• Dallas, TX 75215
• www.tsadayogadallas.com

Constantly, I had to start over.

Every time the mind projected a fantasy, I got engrossed and believed it to be real.  So real that I did not want to leave before it was over.

I started again.

The movie screen of my mind flickered with full-length feature films, some brief vignettes, and trailers of coming attractions.

My body flinched and shuddered during the scary parts, my emotions were in full play.

It was so realistic, but in truth, it was pure fantasy and historical fiction.

It was quite a scene.

Consider how powerfully the images of the mind influence our self-confidence, our physical and mental health, and our relationships with others….and especially our relationship with ourselves.

And most of these images in our mind play out at an unconscious or pre-conscious level, thus we make decisions without knowing the source of our likes and dislikes.

We reach out for the comfort foods, drinks or cigarettes without knowing why we feel the need to be comforted.

This condition is popular and common.

For thirty-seven years I have been training to be a Seer – one who can see through the mirage of the mind; one who can see what lies beyond the mind.

This can only be done with a clear, calm and tranquil mind; without this, we will believe the movies until the lights go on.

We must stop complaining about the show and look for the light switch.

Did someone just yell, “Found it!”?

Our mind lies a lot.

Our sensory perceptions are not very accurate and are easily influenced by foods and feelings.

Memories are changed every time we remember them.

Thus, our impressions may be faulty, they could even be lies.

So who really knows what happened in the past?

Most likely we are living lies that we believe…

…someone likes me

…someone hates me

…someone thinks this about me

…someone thinks this about them

If the lies we believe are kind, life is good.

If the lies we believe are cruel, life is hard.

Believe the kind ones until there is nothing left but kindness.

Tagore tells a beautiful story that illustrates the universality of yoga, “once I met two ascetics of a certain religious sect in a village of Bengal.”

“Can you tell me,” I asked them “wherein lies the special features of your religion?”  One of them hesitated for a moment and answered, “It is difficult to define that.” The other said, “no, it is quite simple.  We hold that we have first of all to know our own soul under the guidance of our spiritual teacher.  And when we have done that we can find him, who is the Supreme Soul, within us.”

“Why don’t you preach your doctrine to all the people of the world?” I asked.

“Whoever feels thirsty will of himself come to the river,” was his reply.

“But then, do you find it so? Are they coming?”  I asked.

The man gave a gentle smile and with an assurance that had not the least tinge of impatience or anxiety, he said, “they must come, one and all.”

Tagore’s story illustrates the phases of yoga science and man’s inherent urge for a lasting happiness.  When all of us are thirsty enough, we will seek out the beverage of our choice. Eventually the beverage of choice is the same for all – unity.  A consistent lack of union will spiral us down into depression and loneliness.

Yoga views depression as the disappearance of the essential delight of being alive. This definition of depression declares that there is a wonderment to life revealing yoga’s opinion of the nature of the human.  According to yoga science, depression owes it origin to either the loss of or lack of recognition of one’s essential nature.  Accordingly, yoga professes that such depression can only be cured by the emergence of a unified consciousness.  As long as we feel cut-off and separate from consciousness — the loving gentle voice of our conscience — we also feel cutoff from others.  This insolent alienation makes us feel suspicious of others or abandoned by others.

If we are not connected within, we cannot see unity in the outside world.  Unfortunately, we busy ourselves trying to re-establish our external connections with others without reestablishing our sacred link with our own conscience.  Due to this error, we fail to find satisfaction in the fellowship that we so desperately want to create.

Yoga purports, “Know thyself and find thyself and then you will have fellowship with all.”  Depression cannot exist without alienation.  Yoga, being the science of unity, cures every form of alienation in a systematic and successful way.

Whole Wheat Pancakes
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1 T brown sugar
½ t cinnamon
4 t baking powder
1 t salt
Combine
Add
2 cups milk
¾ cup water
½ cup apple sauce
2 T ghee (clarified butter)
1 t vanilla.

Cook on griddle.
Top with fresh blueberries, pecans and grade B Maple syrup.

Bean and Cheese Tostadas
2 whole wheat tortillas
½ cup shredded cheese
1 cup vegetarian refried beans with 1 t garlic powder and 1 t cumin powder.
Heat beans and spices in pan.
Top tortillas with cheese and heat on griddle until cheese melts. Top with bean mixture and garnish with shredded greens, fresh salsa and/or guacamole.

Eggs are an excellent choice because they contain choline, which aids memory and omega 3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and augments brain development. Try this simple, kid approved and delicious recipe:

Cheesy Egg Wedges
4 eggs beaten
1/3 cup milk
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ t baking powder
2 cloves minced garlic
2 T chopped chives
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (8 ounces)
1 cup cream style cottage cheese
Whisk ingredients bake in lightly greased 9 inch pie plate uncovered at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and knife inserted near center comes out clean.

Recently, another jarring ‘what if’ has come to me.

What if ALL LOVE is unconditional?  That set my mind reeling.

—Well, let’s look at this.  If all love is unconditional what about all the relationship issues?  What about all these different kinds of love relationships:   romantic, agape, friendship, pets, etc?

What if love is love, and it exists separate from the giver and receiver?  What if it really has NOTHING to do with relationships at all?

OMG!  Now, my synapses are popping.

When do I FEEL love?  I feel love when I am in a certain state of being.  It is associated with feeling warm, calm, happy, joyful, excited– an endless array of expansive feelings.

Are these expansive feelings really about what I am doing or what another is doing for me?  Hummmm.   I have been conditioned by association to believe that is true.

When I am feeling these feelings I do certain behaviors which are loving.  Are my behaviors love?  No, they result from my being in the state of love.

How did I get to the state of LOVE?  I assumed  that someone else evoked it or put me there, but is that true?   Can I put MYSELF there?  Am I really in charge of feeling love(d)?

When I focus on certain thoughts/images I can put myself there.  When I act lovingly toward others,  I put myself there.  AM I IN CHARGE OF MY FEELING LOVED?

Yes, I believe I am.

So then, what my spouse, child, brother, sister, mother, father, uncle, aunt, friend, co-worker, enemy does or does not do— DOES NOT control when or how I feel love(d)?

I can feel love(d) regardless of what others say, feel or do? I have unconditional love at my own discretion, anytime? WOW!  That changes everything.

Then, I can conclude that my relationships are entirely separate from feeling love/loved?  Relationships are just ‘contractual’ arrangements for reciprocation of services/behaviors.  Dealing with relationships is just a negotiation for services/behaviors with no impact on my feeling love(d) or not?

This changes everything.

Discover the unconscious roots of recurrent situations and patterns in your life that are keeping you from having the life you want and deserve. This very effective model of therapy will help you to gain freedom from these unconscious beliefs about yourself starting from the very first session.

If you are ready to finally to let go of that which does not serve you and move on in your life with self-acceptance and understanding, then this is the class for you!

Discover the unconscious roots of recurrent situations and patterns in your life that are keeping you from having the life you want and deserve. This very effective model of therapy will help you to gain freedom from these unconscious beliefs about yourself starting from the very first session.

If you are ready to finally to let go of that which does not serve you and move on in your life with self-acceptance and understanding, then this is the class for you!

Enjoy this holiday season like never before!  Learn to tap out the BLUES, ANXIETY and STRESS.

This will be a hands on, experiential workshop where you will learn acupuncture meridian point sequences to tap out emotional trauma and stress. You will learn how to eliminate phobias, relieve anger, guilt and shame, grief and anxiety BY YOURSELF. PAINLESS AND EASY. Almost too easy to believe.

By identifying those things we don’t want or like, we are rejecting (part of) Self.  It makes no sense at all that we will reach Acceptance of Self through Rejection of Self.  Therefore, we must ACCEPT ALL OF SELF.

WOW!  That sounds completely backwards in this self help, fix it, make it go away culture.  But, what if……

If I did not reject any part of Self, how might I feel?

Calm, peaceful, open, safe, warm…

Could that be what love feels like?

Let’s look at the words.

Self. That seems pretty simple, but is it?  Who is this ’self’ I am referring to?   Is it my body?  Am I my body?  Am I more than that?  What more? Is it my behavior?  Am I my behavior?  Is that all I am?  Who am I? This leads to more and more questions.

So this is a very complex issue after all.

Esteem. Regard, respect, admiration, acceptance.  That seems pretty clear.  So for self esteem, I need to have regard, respect, admiration, and acceptance for myself.   Do I have regard, respect, admiration and acceptance for myself?  How can I if am not sure who this ’self’ is?  Now we are back to the knarly question of ‘Who am I’?

This is the question we are really grappling with when we are having self esteem ‘issues’.  Who do I believe I am and what does that mean to me?  We start answering these questions as babies and toddlers based on our interpretations of what we experience.

We have the brain power to make global assessments long before we have the framework of experience to understand why things are happening the way they are.  We wrongly assume that everything that happens is about us (our fault), and it is all good or all bad.  During infancy and early childhood we are completely dependent beings,  driven to get those who provide us food, shelter and nurture to like us enough to take care of us so we can survive.  We inevitably discover that we are not perfect in various areas that SEEM to be crucial to our acceptance by our caregivers so we must  hide those dangerous secrets DEEP in our unconscious.  Those ’secrets’ become the drivers our behaviors now, even though we don’t know what they are, or, even that they are there.

Radical Self Acceptance is the class designed to expose these secrets and stop them from driving our current behaviors.  When we begin to understand who we really are, not the secrets we hid away as tiny children, we begin the journey to true regard, respect, admiration and acceptance of our ’self’.  Once the journey is started, it does not stop.

Join me.  The class is available every month.  The class meets for 2 hours every week for 4 consecutive weeks.  It is offered on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 or Thursdays at mid-day 11-1.  Class size is limited to 8 students so register early.

It is about time we realized that the whole family unit must be involved if we want to make lasting  lifestyle changes.  One individual deciding to make changes  doesn’t work well.  I have experienced trying to improve my diet only to fail when everyone else in the house is still eating fast food, chips and sweets.  If the whole family gradually embarked on changing  eating patterns, what would that look like?  Could we all be healthier?

Where do we go for this kind of support?  The  Alive and Healthy Institute!  We offer support for individuals actually living in families and communities to make sustainable changes in their lifestyle habits.  We have the team, we have the systematic program that has been around for thousands of years updated with modern science and techniques, all we need is you.

Join us!

Stay tuned.  We have new and exciting healthy lifestyle programs coming in January!

Regular exercise reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s 30%. It is also the most important protective effect in preventing Alzheimer’s dementia. Moderate exercise lowers the risk of dementia even into the 8th decade of life!

Exercise is the best holistic treatment for depression and anxiety. Patients treated with exercise are less likely to have relapses than those treated with medication. Exercise boosts brain blood flow and serotonin production. Exercise has been repeatedly shown to be as effective as anti-depressant medication in the treatment of depression. The antidepressant effect of exercise is often more enduring than that of antidepressant medication.

Research shows modest exercise, like walking daily, decreased heart disease deaths by 50% in both men and women. Exercise lowers blood pressure, decreases blood & platelet stickiness and reduces stress hormones and sympathetic nervous system activity. Physical activity helps overcome all coronary risk factors (except heredity), including smoking and excess clotting. Heart patients who briskly walk one half hour per day reduced their risk 18% for repeat heart attacks both fatal and nonfatal. Increased “good” cholesterol HDL is women stair climbing 16 minutes per day.

No drugs holds as much promise as physical exercise for slowing aging effects. The 12 year risk of dying from all causes was reduced by about 50% in people age 61-81 years walking > 2 miles/day as compared to those walking < 1 mile/day.

A balance complete exercise program includes the following:
Flexibility:
Stretching 2-3 times per week using all major muscles groups.
Sustained stretching 2 or more times per week with addition of balance training.
Resistance Exercise:
Maintains muscular strength (tone) with 6-15 repetitions of all major muscle groups.
Training 2 or more times per week with 48 to 72 hours between workouts.
Aerobic Exercise:
Moderate intensity – 5 times/week 30 minutes or vigorous intensity – 3 times/week 20 minutes. Moderate exercise with varying bursts of intensity as little as two minutes.

Of all things known about exercise, please remember this: fatigue really is exercise deficiency…..most of the time.

Research shows that we can influence how much inflammation we have in our bodies through exercise, stress management and proper nutrition.

Omega 3 essential fatty acids are one of the best ways to curb inflammation naturally. These fatty acids are called essential because our bodies do not made them. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are two principal fatty acids.

DHA can be obtained from marine sources other than fish, such as algae (where the fish get their omega 3s). EPA and DHA are the good fats (polyunsaturated) that are bodies use to reduce inflammation and as building blocks for brain health. The body can only manufacture limited amounts of EPA and DHA from another essential fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) — found in flaxseed oil, canola oil, soy oil and walnut oil.

Omega 3 essential fatty acids work best when they are combined with reduction of omega 6 essential fatty acids and trans fats in the diet. Foods rich in omega 6 essential fatty acids and trans fats are red meat (especially grain fed), high fat dairy like ice cream and cheese (milk and low fat yogurt are great), partially hydrogenated oils, corn, cottonseed, grape seed, peanut, safflower, soy and sunflower oils and foods with long shelf life (chips, cracker). Instead use olive oil and fresh whole unprocessed foods whenever possible.

Should we hold our breath?  Ever?

The great sages and seers of yoga science say that there is a proper and precise method to use breath retention for perfection of one’s meditation.  While there are many do’s and dont’s in this science, tonight we will explore them, explain them and learn what is useful to practice right now.

This class is for all students of meditation and the yogic sciences.  However, it is also designed to prepare the sincere yoga student and meditation practitioner in the science and prerequisites for breath retention (kumbhaka).  The Hatha Yoga Pradipika lists eight types of breath retention and The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali describes only four types.  We will start with Patanjali’s guidance.

Your questions and your curiosity are most welcome!

Suggested Text:
Path of Fire and Light- advanced practices of yoga by Swami Rama
Science of Breath – a practical guide by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, MD and Alan Hymes, MD

“The advanced stages of pranayama involve retention of the breath, and one can harm himself irreparably if he attempts retention without guidance and without disciplining his diet, sleep and sex.  Only a competent teacher can advise one to start practicing retention when he is ready… through such pranayama one achieves perfection in action, speech and thought.”
- Lectures on Yoga by Swami Rama

• Location:
  The Mat Yoga Studio
  670 N. Coit Road Suite 2381
  Richardson, TX 75080
  972-497-YOGA (9642)

This will be a community gathering led by Blair Lewis. Come learn more about the yogic science of how to develop a personal philosophy and worldview. This foundational process is supported by lifestyle habits that you choose to awaken and nurture – including, diet, breathing, sleeping and meditation patterns.

Whether your role model is Nelson Mandela, Gandhi or Mother Teresa, you can learn to light the lamp of love in your heart without burning yourself or others. Please bring your questions and your curiosity and join us for an enjoyable and interesting evening!

A gentle morning greeting to the mind with simple stretches, proper breathing and a time for meditation as taught by the sages and seers of yoga science. All traditions are welcome. Cushions and comfort items recommended.

Old Fashion Yoga is bringing back the comprehensive science of yoga that encourages and supports kindness, clarity and courage. Please join us for a delightful morning and experience the powerful benefits of group meditation.

Class size is limited to 24… because we only have 24 cups of chai waiting for you. Chai alone will make it worth the trip!

It is time to come home, to yourself, to collect the scattered pieces of our lives and learn how to gain deep rest under the guidance of an expert holistic physician and yogini, Theresa Oswald, MD. She is Dallas’ newest holistic doctor and meditation teacher. Dr. Terri will teach both the philosophy and technique of profound relaxation while sharing the medical benefits of this life-changing skill.

Please come prepared to rest and renew your body, breath and mind. Pillows, mats and blankets are strongly encouraged.

Come study with physician and yogini, Theresa Oswald, MD and learn the power and practices of yogic breathing. In this class you will learn a special tantric version of prana dharana as mentioned in the Yoga Sutras and used for systematic rejuvenation of the mind and body.

Dr. Terri is Dallas’ newest holistic doctor and meditation teacher, she will teach both the science and methodology of this powerful tantric technique. All traditions are welcome. Cushions and comfort items recommended.

Using Yoga Psychology and the Philosophy of the Sages, you will activate a process of awakening that will cause you to become more and more conscious in your experience of life.  You will learn to use simple inquiry techniques to identify and challenge the beliefs that are driving your negative reactions, feelings, patterns and situations.

This evening we will explore the subtle points of tantra methods for self-transformation.  When the beast within you can no longer be tamed nor suppressed, tantrics invite you to harness these disruptive forces in the mind with systematic techniques that keep you safe and vibrant. Pandit Lewis, a tantric student for over 35 years, will share with you living solutions and unveil the secrets of tantric wisdom for personal growth and global healing.

A free copy of the book, Touched by Fire, will be given to the first 24 registrants. Touched by Fire by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD, the spiritual head of the Himalayan Institute, will help you continue your study.

Change Your Brain, Change Your Mind, Change Yourself.

Ancient wisdom tells us that with our thoughts we create the world. Science now has shown that we create new brain cells every day. Our brains can change in both structure and function in response to both stress events and personal guidance – you get to choose, does your brain follow you or does it follow the chaos of the day? Learn how the science of neuroplasticity facilitates changing unproductive or unhelpful behaviors and habits into powerful productive actions.

Our bodies function best when they are flexible and move freely.
Knowledge of muscle anatomy enables simple stretches to become effective tools for muscle relaxation and stress reduction. Explore firsthand the benefits of prolonged deep stretching. We will develop an easy effective stretching program to target the main muscle groups that store the most tension. Come enjoy the science of stretching.

• Thursday, September 16
• 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
• Instructor: Blair Lewis
• Tuition: $20 suggested donation

Look within, Seek within, Find within

The highest stage of consciousness is described by all traditions as the experience of unity, joy and spiritual absorption.  While such words intrigue and fascinate, this evening we will discuss the facts and methodology that lead to such a transformative experience. The basis of happiness is fully explained in the ancient Samkhya philosophy and the vedantic methods of self-inquiry.  Accelerate your meditative and contemplative practices with the clear skills and foundational information necessary for a systematic and successful journey within.

Expand your options for fighting pain and inflammation. We will explore the plant-based nutrients (phytonutrients) as your best ally in managing pain. You will also learn the tremendous health benefits of exercise, stretching, rest, relaxation, stress management, massage and other evidence based therapies.

If the health benefits of exercise came in a pill; it would be prescribed to every one in the country. The power of exercise cannot be underestimated. You can easily learn how to optimize your exercise program to get the most out of the time you spend exercising each day. Come and learn how to experience ‘total wellbeing’ from a strong, flexible and nourished body.

Please joing us for our Fall Open House here at the Alive and Healthy Institute. From 10am – 2pm we will be holding a variety of 15 minute classes. For an expanded look at the topics listed below, please download this Fall Open House PDF

Topics will include:
Optimal Nutrition for Wellness
Integrative Medicine
Stress Relief
Homeopathic Medicine and Chronic Illness
Yoga-Creating Union Between Mind and Body
Introduction to Radical Self Acceptance and Thought Field Therapy
Switching On-Powerful 5 minute Techniques to Optimize Learning and Performance
Chair Massage
Breathe into Relaxation
Maps for Life-Whole Brain Mapping for Families

The foods that fight pain are known and easily available.  Targeted nutrients and simple menus can supply safe solutions for pain management and this class will teach you how to re-discover how to use food as medicine.

You will learn how to get your diet on your side!  Depending upon what you eat, you can than either resolve or promote pain and inflammation in your body.

We will explore the plant based nutrients (phytonutrients) as your best ally in managing pain.  We will also discuss the pathway of action of herbal supplements for pain and inflammation.

Please join Blair for a fascinating evening on the secrets of the science and specifics of malas and mantra meditation. Mala beads are a modern fad, but for the sincere seeker, they are aids to profound self-transformation.

You will learn the difference between japa, mantra meditation, reciting slokas and chanting along with the aids and atmosphere for the greatest benefit to the practitioner and to society. The mystery and magic of Rudraksha malas will also be discussed.

All traditions are welcome! Beginners and advanced practitioners will find great value in this presentation.

Yoga is the science of learning to get along with yourself. Without inner cooperation, defeat and dismay can constantly haunt your efforts to enjoy life.
Once the nature of the mind is known, then rare insights of how to be happy can be revealed.

Rare video footage of Swami Rama of the Himalayas and his successor, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, will be shown.

This will a day of incredible instruction by Swami Rama and Panditji, followed by great practicums to integrate and use what is taught by such master teachers.

Change Your Brain, Change Your Mind, Change Yourself. Ancient wisdom tells us that with our thoughts we create the world. Science now has shown that we create new brain cells every day.  Our brains can change in both structure and function in response to both stress events and personal guidance – you get to choose, does your brain follow you or does it follow the chaos of the day?  Learn how the science of neuroplasticity facilitates changing unproductive or unhelpful behaviors and habits into powerful productive actions.

Relaxation is our natural state. When the mind is quiet, one is able to hear the body’s internal wisdom. Get to know yourself using self observation techniques, discover your body’s own ability to rejuvenate and heal and explore new tools for managing stress and tension.

You will receive instruction and guidance on techniques of breath awareness, relaxation and quieting the mind. Class may also include some gentle stretching.

Location:

• Alive and Healthy Institute
• 14114 Dallas Parkway, Suite 260
• North Dallas Tollway and Spring Valley Road

The foods that fight pain are known and easily available.  Targeted nutrients and simple menus can supply safe solutions for pain management and this class will teach you how to re-discover how to use food as medicine.

You will learn how to get your diet on your side!  Depending upon what you eat, you can than either resolve or promote pain and inflammation in your body.
Tonight we will explore the plant based nutrients (phytonutrients) as your best ally in managing pain.  We will also discuss the pathway of action of herbal supplements for pain and inflammation.

Registration:
To register for classes, please call Judy at Alive and Healthy, (214) 405-0838, or email her at:  Judy@AliveandHealthy.com

Instructor:
Dr. Theresa Oswald, MD – an Integrative Medicine Physician and Pain Specialist

A seasoned expert in brain science and the treatment of pain, Dr. Oswald combines conventional medical treatment options with Yoga Science, nutrition, movement, massage, homeopathy, herbal medicine and Ayurveda for lasting results.

Her specialties include:

• a holistic approach to the management of persistent pain
• comprehensive brain health programs for memory, alertness and focus
• yoga and meditation as therapy

She gives her clients targeted information and resources regarding their diet, exercise, breathing, stress management and life style modifications.  Dr. Oswald has found that the more information or tools people have, the more successful they are on their healing journey.

Dr. Oswald works in cooperation with her clients, their family and referring healthcare providers.  Learn more at: http://www.aliveandhealthy.com/Theresa-Oswald-MD.html

You can reach Dr. Oswald, MD at the Alive and Healthy Institute in North Dallas at 972-774-0221 and by email at: Terri@aliveandhealthy.com.

Watch for her upcoming classes and BLOG entries posted online at – www.aliveandhealthy.com

Location:

• Alive and Healthy Institute
• 14114 Dallas Parkway, Suite 260
• North Dallas Tollway and Spring Valley Road.

Registration:
To register for classes, please call Judy at Alive and Healthy, (214) 405-0838, or email her at:  Judy@AliveandHealthy.com

This is a class on how to feel better and to continue feeling better using your home kitchen as a pharmacy for your emotions.  You will learn how to maximize the positive effects of food on your moods and emotions.

Foods and nutrients are the building blocks for all the neurotransmitters in your brain.  If your diet has a shortage of these building blocks, then your happiness and charm will be at risk. Tonight you will learn how the main neurotransmitters effect your mood and how to increase them.

We will explore the relationship between how and what we eat and how we feel.  You can maximize the nutrition in the food you eat and use targeted supplements to boost levels of necessary nutrients not readily available in food.

Instructor:
Dr. Theresa Oswald, MD – an Integrative Medicine Physician and Pain Specialist    http://www.aliveandhealthy.com/Theresa-Oswald-MD.html

A seasoned expert in brain science and the treatment of pain, Dr. Oswald combines conventional medical treatment options with Yoga Science, nutrition, movement, massage, homeopathy, herbal medicine and Ayurveda for lasting results.

Her specialties include:

• a holistic approach to the management of persistent pain
• comprehensive brain health programs for memory, alertness and focus
• yoga and meditation as therapy

She gives her clients targeted information and resources regarding their diet, exercise, breathing, stress management and life style modifications.  Dr. Oswald has found that the more information or tools people have, the more successful they are on their healing journey.

Dr. Oswald works in cooperation with her clients, their family and referring healthcare providers.  Learn more at: http://www.aliveandhealthy.com/Theresa-Oswald-MD.html

You can reach Dr. Oswald, MD at the Alive and Healthy Institute in North Dallas at 972-774-0221 and by email at: Terri@aliveandhealthy.com.

This will be a community gathering led by Blair Lewis. Come learn more about the yogic science of how to develop a personal philosophy and worldview. This foundational process is supported by lifestyle habits that you choose to awaken and nurture – including, diet, breathing, sleeping and meditation patterns.

Whether your role model is Nelson Mandela, Gandhi or Mother Teresa, you can learn to light the lamp of love in your heart without burning yourself or others. Please bring your questions and your curiosity and join us for an enjoyable and interesting evening!

Please call for additional information on this ongoing Study Group being held every Thursday at the Alive and Healthy Institute in Dallas, TX.
The study group begins Thursday May 5th. PLEASE NOTE: We will not being hosting the study group on May 13th or May 20th

Women and girls are most powerful when moving in a feminine manner. What does feminine strength look like? It may look a lot like Mother Nature, nurturing, accepting, at times quiet, accommodating and supportive and at other times tempestuous, wild and seemingly chaotic. I am still learning and exploring what a truly powerful woman would look like but I know it involves love in fact fierce love, loving until it’s uncomfortable or unfashionable or unpopular. For men strength is presence and stability; for women it is love and fluidity. What would our world look like with strong leaders both men and women living to their full potential naturally and comfortably in their own skin? All it would take is a broader appreciation of power in both its masculine and feminine forms. It definitely would be worth a try.

In every case, the teachings were about how to live. The style was experiential. The manner was kind, mutually respectful and filled with gentle guidance. I loved it. Forty years later, I still love it.

If you have read my books, you know I boarded a Greyhound bus after high school to seek out teachers. At that time, I barely knew the word ‘guru’ but that’s what I wanted. A ‘Merlin’ or ‘Yoda’ as a guide and me as the young King Arthur or Jeti Knight, full of curiosity and wanting to succeed and serve.

In my college years, a movie I adored for its content, but more so for its title, was “Meetings with Remarkable Men.” That’s what I was seeking…and by that time, I had finally found some remarkable men.

I still study with my teacher and he still sends me off to study with others. Only a few days ago, I returned home from my 12th trip to India.

As I read the poor outlook for the futures and mental health of young men in the current medical and pop literature, I see a niche. A unique niche for me.

While I am still a work in progress, my own studies in the oral tradition have been the most serious priority in my life for 38 years. Filled with successes and failures, incredible immaturity and errors, and yet balanced by growth, forgiveness and adaptability – I pushed on.

My heart is filled with stories of my own teachers as well as the lives of the great seers and sages – I think it is time to share these stories and teach the techniques referred to in the stories.

How wonderful it would be to sit down with young men and women and tell them the stories of remarkable men and women that have influenced my life and the lives of many. The wisdom contained in the stories can give guidance and direction for seekers of happiness and freedom.

While it is true that Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, the Chronicles of Narnia have birthed numerous trilogies filled with similar stories. However, there is a difference.

My life was not fiction.

Neither is the life of your son or daughter.
I hope they will join us.

Classes will be starting soon:
• Bright and Shining Armor – the yoga of self-esteem for boys
• Radical Self-Esteem Makeover for Girls

Please be sure to visit our Events Page for more information.

This ongoing Sunday morning class is a mixture of lecture, practicum and videos on teaching the comprehensive science of yoga. It is also about fellowship and learning how to deepen one’s own personal practice of yoga, meditation and contemplation, etc.

How the Himalayan sages and adepts introduced and taught the science of yoga. If you ever wondered how the yogis started their day, this is the class for you. It is filled with ancient stories, techniques and modern medical explanations of the benefits of yoga. This is a class for adults and teens who wish to travel back in time. We will return to the days when the sages and rishis walked among us, providing inspiration and practical advice.

• We will explore and discuss the concepts of vital energy (prana) and space. We will move, stretch, meditate and contemplate together.
• Pranayama – the science of expanding and controlling prana – will be explored from both an anatomical and energetic perspective.

The goal of hatha yoga is to gain freedom from the body and to create more space around your vital organs. We will stretch our minds and our understanding of how and why hatha is the gateway to the higher practices of yoga. When you are feeling stressed, creating more space within your body will diminish tension, improve your health and make sleeping much more restful. If you are looking for hotbox yoga with pain and sweat, this is not for you. However, if you are looking for maximal stress reduction and love the idea of finding steady, stable joy and self-esteem, then enroll immediately.

Beginner and advanced practitioners, as well as yoga teachers are highly encouraged to attend this program. We will be practicing asana, breath exercises, meditation and contemplation. Please bring your yoga mat and meditation cushion if you have them. Otherwise, a few thick blankets will suffice.

This post is password protected. To view it please enter your password below:

Password:

Stop criticizing yourself and enjoy the blessings in your life. Give yourself the gifts of gratitude and compassion. Come and join Anne Schanz, Ph.D. as she begins a four week crash course in self acceptance.
Understand where your negative beliefs come from and let them go. Begin your journey to compassion for yourself and others today.

In 2010, the Alive and Healthy Institute is going to begin a revolution in the way family members relate to one another.  Our mission is to create a place where families can find the resources and tools they need to be a loving and supportive family in this digital age.

Today, families need a double income requiring both parents to work, leaving a major void at home.  With families constantly on-the-go, neither the children nor their parents are faring very well.  This is quite evident when:

•  Divorce is at an all time high.

•  Parents are chronically stressed and exhausted, often impatient and angry.

•  There is an increased use of prescription medications and street drugs in younger and younger children.

•  The list is ongoing, including signs of growing gang affiliations, rising teen pregnancies rates, and more parents and children feel lost and adrift.

Alive and Healthy is committed to reversing this trend. We have gathered a core team of professionals to make this a reality.  Each team member brings a wealth of experience that offers targeted and systematic solutions for family stress.

Where will we focus?

With families and individuals that are overwhelmed.

Foundationally, we begin with communication skills, personal and family stress management techniques, nutrition and offering sustainable solutions for physical and mental health problems with natural medicines.

We have developed tools to create a custom ‘map’ of the issues facing each family.  These tools make it easy to prioritize the problem areas and ‘map’ the solutions.  This results in a concrete plan of simple, specific action items to make the changes needed.

Once your family has a ‘map’, our staff will identify and provide the people, skills, education and coaching needed to help your family to a greater sense of unity and well-being.   Can you imagine having time to talk with one another and live and love together as a family?  It is possible and you can start learning how to do this right now.

What is the challenge for Alive and Healthy?

To increase our services, we will soon need a larger facility.  We need a place for our community to have fellowship, to learn cooking, eating together, talking together, solving issues, and supporting each other.

We need benefactors and supporters who share our passion for this revolution.  Some of our families will be able to pay for services, some will not.  We do not want to deny services to anyone.

Becoming the change we wish to see in the world…

A world of healthy and happy families and individuals is our goal.  We believe our entire world will change if we just start here.  Please join us.  We look forward to seeing you at Alive and Healthy.

Our core team to make this happen includes:

Blair Lewis, is our spiritual director and classical homeopath.  He is also a well-known author and expert in yoga science and Ayurveda.

Theresa Oswald, MD is our medical director and offers holistic, integrative solutions using natural and conventional medicine.  She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine and is also board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pain Management.  Since she is a wife and mother, she knows the challenges of blending family and work priorities.

Anne Schanz, PhD is a psychotherapist, educator, speaker, who has developed many targeted behavioral treatments for improved interpersonal relationships with compassion for self at the core.  She is a mom, grandmother and wife.

Fritz Petree is an expert in learning strategies, brain science and our family ‘Map Maker.’  He is an expert in leading a person or organization from being overwhelmed with complexities to specific action-oriented solutions.  A wonderful dad and husband, Fritz helps all of us get things done.

As Fleetwood Mac used to sing, “Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow, it will soon be here.”

Please join us today and walk into a tomorrow that is bright and shiny.

I am interested in health care transformation. While healthcare reform seems like a daunting task of immense proportion; healthcare transformation involves each person evaluating their own health and reclaiming their body’s innate power to heal and to be healthy.  Have we forgotten the immense power our bodies have to heal?

Our bodies know exactly what to do to mend our skin after a cut.  Vast arrays of chemical reactions are occurring within us daily to keep our internal ecosystem in balance.  When given the needed ingredients; fresh whole food, clean water, rest, shelter and a clear and calm mind, our bodies can do amazing feats to maintain balance and repair any damage.

How about an experiment of health care transformation where you are the captain of your own health care team, knowing we all come outfitted with all the needed equipment?

I feel Happiness Revolution in the air as we all are empowered to treat ourselves and our health with tender, loving care.

All that we are arises with our thoughts.

With our thoughts we make the world.

Speak or act with a pure mind

And happiness will follow you

As your shadow, unshakable.

From the Dhammapada

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

from “The Road Not Taken”

(Hamlet  Act 2, Scene 2)