Yoga Flavored Life

Symbiation – Part 5

Sean Rogders — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 17:21:01 +0000

Back at the beginning of August we moved away from our talk on Symbiation, which as you may recall is a form of symbol meditation that focuses on ancient geometrical designs along with a prevailing mindset of working in a state of symbiosis with our planet. Today, I would like to return to the discussion and elaborate further on our journey towards exploring the symbols. These symbols transcend religion, race, and belief systems and are inherent in every culture on the planet in one form or another.

Sight as a weapon

A mantra can be thought of as a verbal echo of the millions who have used it to steady and calm the mind and bring about alternate states – in this same manner a symbol acts as a visual echo, releasing information on a subconscious level far beyond our waking intelligence and awakening us to a higher reality. Yoga is another form of symbol meditation in itself, relying on the body to form shapes and postures that are evident in animal life and our natural world. The advantage in Symbiation lies in its ability to engage our sense of sight, using it as a weapon against distraction as opposed to viewing sight as a sense we need to quash along with the remaining ‘demons’ that hide us from our own true light within.

If you have not had the opportunity to read the prior articles in the Symbiation series, they are listed here for your reference. I would recommend reading the introductory articles prior to continuing on from this point (in order, top to bottom):

Although Symbiation will work just as well when applied regardless of the belief system we subscribe to, there are a few Universal Truths which if we can find acceptable will enrich and hasten the process of unlocking our true selves. The first of these Truths is the principle of reincarnation. Reincarnation of one form or another has been accepted in nearly all of the world’s mystical systems, including sects within Sufism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Cabalism, many Shamanic traditions, scores of Aboriginal Peoples from many countries, and even Christians until suppressed by the Church.

To reincarnate

Both Christ and Buddha alluded to reincarnation in their teachings, although it would take a thousand bible scholars to unravel the Bible’s corruptions in order to expose the truth as far as Christ is concerned. The reason why a large part of the population believes in reincarnation is simple – it makes sense, especially in light of the difficulties we face on our journey towards realizing we already are what we seek. Reincarnation becomes self-evident as few of us, especially in modern societies, will ever accomplish the entire journey in a single lifetime. This does not mean to say that the journey is not worthwhile by any means.

The singular argument used against reincarnation revolves around our inability to remember past lives. My own experiences contrary to many beliefs, say otherwise. I have found it possible to access fragments of past lives with a minimal level of awareness; although the experience can be disconcerting and cause confusion. There is a valid reason that our core self – our True Self – is hidden from our conscious mind by what Sufi mystics calls “a hundred veils of illusion.” Our previous lives give us a temperament towards our current physical existence, similar to choosing which fork to take on a trail without being aware of it. To be even somewhat aware of a previous existence can remove the focus from the gifts and importance this life has to offer and could lead to eventual mental illness.

Karma – The Law of cause and effect

This leads to the second rule – the rule of Karma, which is simple cause and effect – the guiding force in determining your signposts and perceived blocks on your current path in this life and all lives. This does not mean that our destiny has already been decided however; it simply means that each of us is here in the exact circumstances and situations we need to move forward on our individual journeys – should we choose to. As you progress in Symbiation, awareness of past lives will naturally arise when the time comes that you begin to be aware of your constant connectedness and oneness with all of Creation and the Divine. Under these circumstances, this awareness of past lives can lead to profound leaps forward on our journey in this life. This occurs through the understanding of Karma and our current consciousness and path of our journey.

The rule of Karma lies in our journey from unconsciousness to ever-deeper levels of awareness as we progress from birth, to death, to rebirth. We can lose nothing of what is truly real or essential in this transition – our past lessons are forever imprinted within our genetic makeup as Infinite Truths are revealed and become part of our continued development. This naturally gives rise to the relationship between past Karma and the consciousness with which we enter this current physical existence. Karma is not a burden or unknown judgement from a past you are not aware of, as many current interpretations suggest. Each of us is born into this life with a direction and intention moulded by Karma – the law of cause and effect. In every choice we make, every thought and deed, new effects on Karma in past, present and future lives are being realized. Perhaps Buddha said it best when asked about Karma: “Karma creates like an artist and composes like a dancer.”

Divine journey

The more aware we become of our divine nature and the laws of our journey, the more we are able to consciously participate in the infinite dance that is our existence. We become co-creators of our lives in constant union and awareness of the Divine. Through the gift of birth into this lifetime, we are able to grasp the myriad opportunities that human consciousness has to offer in terms of growth and evolution not only as an individual, but as a species as well. The Divine birthright belonging to EVERY member of humanity of self-realization, transformation and union with the Creator must be absorbed deep into your conscious mind, especially in light of the deranged believe of original sin. The only thing you must understand right NOW, in this present moment, is that you have the opportunity for spiritual growth and so does anyone born to this Earth, regardless of religion, race, beliefs, or social position.

If we are to save this planet and all of humanity from a major setback in our development that we heading toward, we must realize that Western society is a big part of the problem. As world leaders we contributed to most of the problems the world faces today, on a level far greater than any other countries combined. This is due to a great extent by the ego-identity society in which we live today. This ego develops in phases between approximately five to twelve years and is a necessary part of human survival. The problem is that within Western society, we tend to identify with the ego totally, allowing this false self to define our reality in its narrow and fearful view – putting a big “E” in Ego, elevating it to almost God-like status in our society. As a result of this, almost everything in our world glorifies the values of Ego as opposed to Spirit.

Valueless Values of Ego

Our culture is almost entirely materialistic in nature, designed around self-centeredness and the pursuit of personal power through wealth and control. Not only are the limited values of ego consciousness revered as the ultimate goals in life, but true knowledge of the possibilities of awareness outside of this false self are flatly denied and ridiculed. There is hope, never fear.

If you begin to search, even half-consciously, for the greater Truths of our existence, all of Creation begins to work with you to guide your way. In the blessed words of Mohammed, “Take one step towards God and God will take a thousand steps towards you.” When we start to search in earnest and with unwavering intent, the creative essence of all things will light a path leading to Universal Truths to the benefit of all humanity. It is through this that ultimately our planet will be healed as well as our misguided societal views.

Now that we have a basic understanding of the reality of our existence and how meditation on ancient symbols accelerates our journey towards spiritual awakening, we are ready to discuss the key geometric shapes and some of their ancient meanings which serve to guide you in the right direction. This will be the focus of next week’s article.

Namaste

To do Yoga…the search for food.

Sean Rogders — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 01:26:28 +0000

Doing Yoga of any kind is beneficial. Is there any one type of Yoga that can claim to be superior to all others? I believe there answer to this is no. Think of Yoga as food – for the body, mind and spirit. We each like different food…we each have different reactions to various foods as well. What I would find satisfying and fulfilling for lunch may make you cringe in fear.

In the same way, I think it necessary to explore at least a few of the various Yoga offerings you have access to in your area, and find out which one is best for you. Pretend you are hunting for a new favourite restaurant – one you will frequent as often as possible to feed yourself with the best of food. Even if you are planning take-out (doing Yoga at home), it is always wise to sample a few of the “entrees” in various teaching styles before settling on one yourself. I personally practice at home, but still attend a class once every month or six weeks for guidance, advice and posture checks. Anyone else feeling like takeout Chinese right about now? I am!

Yoga everywhere!

No matter what your choice may be, Yoga is available almost everywhere; from recreation centers, public facilities, clubs, studios, at home, on DVD…you name it. Listed below with short descriptions are the major Yoga teaching styles. I hope the information may at least give you some indication as to what style of Yoga may be best for you.

Hatha Yoga

This term is often used incorrectly as Hatha Yoga can incorporate a variety of styles. You may usually count on this style of Yoga to be slow-paced and serene as opposed to overly active.

Integral Yoga

If you suffer from intense pain in joints or have reached an age where you require a more gentle Yoga approach, Integral yoga may be for you. Also a type of Hatha Yoga; classes include chanting, meditation, and breathing exercises (Pranayama).

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa is another general term that encompasses many different types of classes. Classes in Vinyasa Yoga often focus around more active poses based on a series known as Sun Salutations and are usually more vigorous. These poses are performed in synchronization with the breath and are generally followed up by more intense stretching towards class end.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga is based on the teachings of the yogi B.K.S. Iyengar and is one of my personal favourites as it combines attention to body alignment with holding poses over long periods. This allows the practitioner to advance at her or his own pace – e.g. gradually working your way up from only holding a pose for a few seconds to a minute or more. Alignment in yoga terms refers to the precise positioning of your body to achieve the maximum benefit while reducing any risks of injury. Iyengar Yoga encourages prop use such as blankets, straps, etc…to gain the necessary alignment for some asanas. Breathing or practicing Pranayama after Yoga and at other times of the day is also encouraged.

Ashtanga Yoga (or a variant called Power yoga)

Ashtanga Yoga is a very fast-paced and intense style of Yoga. If a class is described as a power yoga class, it will be loosely based on Ashtanga Yoga and yet may follow different poses. Ashtanga Yoga relies on a set series of poses which are performed in the same order and without rest. This constant movement is known as “flow” in Yoga terms and is quite demanding physically.

Bikram Yoga

Otherwise known as hot yoga, Bikram Yoga is practiced in a high temperature environment, usually 35 to 38 degrees Celsius. According to Bikram Choudhury, the founder of Bikram Yoga, the high temperature allows for lubrication and loosening of tight muscles as well as sweating out toxins from the body. Bikram Yoga traditionally relies on twenty-six poses, although not all hot yoga classes may use the same.

Moksha Hot Yoga

Ted Grant and Jessica Robertson pioneered Moksha Yoga in Toronto, Canada in 2004. Similar to Bikram Hot Yoga, a series of poses designed to be challenging yet accessible for those with physical difficulties is performed in a hot environment.

Kripalu Yoga

Kripalu Yoga was developed by yoga guru Amrit Desai who came to the United States from India in 1960. Kripalu Yoga is a type of Hatha Yoga with emphasis on extending your practice into your everyday life. Through awakening higher awareness, meditation, and physical healing, Kripalu strives to move students towards a holistically whole state.

Anusara Yoga

A very ‘Buddhist’ Yoga, Anusara is based on the belief of the inherent goodness of all of nature and adds to this a strong emphasis on alignment. With a positive philosophy based on Tantra, Anusara Yoga classes are usually very open and relaxed, offering instruction for students with varying abilities. As with Iyengar Yoga, props are often used, and poses are taught in such a way as to open the emotional and physical heart center in order to help heal and free the mind.

Kundalini Yoga

As a practitioner of Kundalini Yoga, I can tell you it is a fairly strenuous workout with attention on breathing, breath control, mudras, and your spiritual third eye. Kundalini yoga places great emphasis on the breath in rhythm with physical movement in order to free Kundalini energy and allow it to rise up your body. Understanding the effects of the breath or prana (life energy) is an integral part of Kundalini Yoga and is present in many of the asanas.

Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti Yoga was founded by David Life and Sharon Gannon. This is a particularly beautiful and interesting style of Yoga with emphasis on meditation, chanting, and spiritual teachings. Jivamukti Yoga is quite challenging physically and finds its roots in Ashtanga Yoga. David and Sharon have an interesting website which you may visit at http://www.jivamuktiyoga.com.

Sivananda Yoga

Sivananda Yoga is based on five principles; proper exercise through performing Asanas, proper breathing, relaxation, proper diet, and positive thinking and meditation. Teachers of Sivananda Yoga usually advocate a strict vegetarian if not Vegan diet.

Forrest Yoga

Ana Forrest teaches this method at her yoga center in Santa Monica, California. Forrest Yoga is very intense physically and is designed to strengthen the body and release hidden emotional damage and pain so that deeper healing may begin. Emphasis is placed on developing a strong core through abdominal exercises and controlled deep breathing.

There are many other types of yoga and subcategories as well, but the majority of all are in some way based on these “umbrella’ styles. Of note are Laughter Yoga (see article here), Christian Yoga, and Jewish Yoga. I sincerely hope this information will lead you in a positive direction when it comes time for you to consider Yoga as a form of physical activity that will benefit your mind, emotions and spirit as well.

P.S. Pass the eggrolls!

Namaste

Dealing with Loss and Grief through Yoga

Sean Rogders — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:14:49 +0000

The Holy Longing

Tell a wise person, or keep silent, because the massman will mock it right away.
I praise what is truly alive, what longs to be burned to death.

In the calm water of the love-nights, where you were begotten, were you have begotten,
a strange feeling comes over you when you see the silent candle burning.

Now you are no longer caught in the obsession with darkness,
and a desire for higher love-making sweeps you upward.

Distance does not make you falter, now, arriving in magic, flying,
and finally, insane for the light, you are the butterfly and you are gone.

And so as long as you haven’t experienced this: to die and so to grow,
you are only a troubled guest on this dark earth.

- Goethe –

No matter how strong our practice, how balanced we feel – there will inevitably come along something in our lives that crushes our world and leaves us spinning with loss and profound grief. I recently have gone through such an experience, and still find myself in “the dark night of the soul” that follows events such as these…my hope is that my experiences may help you one day in your own loss.

A journey towards Death

Our lives are a journey towards death from the moment we are given birth into this world, yet for the majority of us, death remains a fearful, never-to-be-thought-of demon awaiting us at our life’s end. Even when we sign on to a belief system that explains death, it does nothing to eliminate our fear of the moment when we step through death’s door; of the time when what we know ourselves to be ceases to exist.

I have begun to understand that the trick is to allow yourself to die every day…to everything. All the things we crave to surround ourselves with as security blankets – beauty, youth, money, power and all our fears – decay, age, illness, loss, death – are all out of our control anyway. We practice death in our losses of loved ones, friends, changing jobs, divorce, moving on…the list is endless. Even at a physiological level, our bodies continually die and regenerate on a daily basis – whether we choose to be active and conscious participants or not, all things rise…and end.

When I am true to myself, open and honest – I know I still tend to be a control freak. We carry around so much fear of not being in control, of not being able to maintain our grip on life; and yet the true nature and gift of life is that we are never in control, we can hold onto nothing. Intellectually, I understand this, and I have often thought I had internalized it on a deeper level as well, but I still struggle for control all the same. The path I have chosen is one of learning to be at peace with this lack of control instead, relaxing into the infinite possibilities of uncertainty and allowing me to die continually to the moment.

Dark night of the soul

As with most of us, I needed a “a big alarm clock,” a major loss in my life to reveal to me what it truly means to continually die and set my feet on the path. Where I see tragedy and loss, I understand it may be the very thing I need to be liberated from my hidden fears of change and death – death to anything. I am still deep into the despair of abandonment and loss; what the mystics call “the dark night of the soul” I mentioned previously. My faith, my knowing, is that way down here in the darkness is my timeless and eternal soul; waiting for me to stumble upon it and then emerge empowered and healed. I have seen sparks of my soul, briefly illuminating the darkness and drawing me forward, even when another day would seem impossible.

My journey…and your journey, are through the valley of death; a journey from utter darkness into the radiant light of the sun…death and rebirth, dark and light, loss and finding, emptiness and fullness. We must try to understand that in order to make room for the new; we must let go of the old. Our loss is old the moment after it happens, but we hold it, refusing to let go, even as it begins to slip away from us. There is no room in our heart for the new in a heart that refuses to let go of the old. This darkness should not be feared, but embraced as a valued friend. Without the uncertainty and continued change in life, nothing would be possible. This uncertainty and stripping away of our outer layers through loss and grief will lend us to new joy in what may come for us.

A doorway to joy

Doctor, heal thyself…Not as easy as it sounds, I can attest. There are a few ways to help strengthen your ability to see death and our daily practice for it through loss, change, grief and more as a doorway to the new and joyful:

Yoga – In Yoga, we die to one posture to be born into the next. Our bodies become a flowing picture of life on our earth rising, falling, rising again. From Mountain (pose) to Tree, to Downward Dog and Camel, we transition birth, life, death, change…When facing a loss or profound grief, allow your yoga practice to show you the realization that all things change. Feel as your acceptance of this fact seeps into your body…your transition from one pose to another will become smoother. Accept that as our body’s moves and changes, so does our life and circumstances.

The practice of Fana – One of the cornerstones of the Sufi faith is the practice of Fana; the practice of dying. This practice stems from the soul’s homesickness for God, or the Eternal. Whenever you feel yourself resisting change, or refusing to let go of old grief and loss, understand it is the soul’s desire to be full, not empty. When you let go of grief, of change, of loss, the empty spaces will be filled by our spirit, by the Divine itself. Pray, as is the Sufi tradition, for your little self to die so you may step into your larger self. Pray for the Ego to die in the larger picture of our immortal and eternal selves.

Practice this visualization exercise from one of my favourite Buddhists, Thich Nhat Hanh: Lie on a bed, mat, or the grass in a position which you are comfortable in. Breathe normally and lightly. Imagine that all that is left of your body is a white skeleton lying on the ground…Now imagine eighty years later, your skeletal remains long buried in the ground. Clearly see all the bones of your body…breathe very lightly, your heart and mind serene. See that your skeleton is not you. Your bodily form is not you either. Be one with life, live eternally in the trees, the grass, in others, in the birds and other beasts, in the sky and in the ocean waves. Your skeleton is only one part of you. You are present everywhere and in every moment. You are not a bodily form, or even feeling, thoughts, actions, and knowledge.

Namaste, my friends. May your times of change and dying to every moment bring you to the realization that everything is possible. May grief and loss lead you to your own eternal souls and out into the light again, with renewed hope and joy for the new and the unknown.

Floating on the River of Life

Sean Rogders — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 23:02:37 +0000

photo credit: swan-t

I was struggling for an idea for this week’s article when Charlotte (this beautiful web site’s owner and creator – for those who have not been introduced) wrote something in an email that set off my article warning bells…Charlotte had written that she felt Yoga could help anyone work through so much in their life – true words without a doubt to be sure. Upon deeper reflection on this short comment, I began to realize that our culture has accepted Yoga as an avenue to greater physical and mental health, but…

How do you demonstrate the impact Yoga has on our every day existence? In the East from whence Yoga originated, there is a long and documented history of Yoga and its benefits spanning thousands of years – it is ingrained in the culture and in the individual equally, with no need to find acceptable reasons why Yoga should be practiced. In the West, we tend to shy away from the less physical aspects of Yoga, which may appear to be a stereotypical comment, but I find it to be true in the majority of Yoga studios I have polled both recently and the past.

Fair warning!

We could talk about the physical aspects, the emotional aspects, the spiritual or less tangible rewards or benefits from practice…but how can we speak of these benefits in a way that we here in the West can relate to and more importantly absorb? Today, God help you all – I thought poetry may be a suitable guide. Poetry can defy common conventions in language and meaning – often ‘short-circuiting’ our rational mind and allowing new windows into ourselves. It is my hope you find those windows, and come to know the wonder and value of who you really are

Balance begins from deep within, it is not about physical prowess…
In peace, at the center of your being, no stress can reach you
The morning commute becomes a time for mindful reflection
As if by magic, you begin to flow with Life, even as you cease to move

The mad rush of breakfast and bundling family off to school and work
You have your part, but something is not the same
Today, your sun salutation left you in breathless wonder as you greeted the dawn
A smiling island of peace and clear mind in the midst of a new day’s chaos…

The customer who unfairly takes his frustrations out on you
Who once would leave you shaking in angry response
Now you see glimpses of the light within him, shining past Ego’s childish rages
Compassion wins a new friend

The company laptop that squeals its last breath
Just as you complete the final word of your presentation…changes nothing
You begin again, knowing there is reason for everything
Seeing past the lost and realizing what could be found in the still buzzing wreckage

A higher awareness begins to pervade your existence, an infinite you
Speaks quietly in your heart…
No longer of this world realized, the wonder of this journey makes
Joyful, childlike, the beginner’s mind…empty and yet full.

The myriad tasks you face each day accomplish themselves it seems
You stretch and bend in the wind of modern life
No longer buffeted to and fro in what was once a storm
You walk your own path in tranquil abiding, feeling the breeze caress your skin.

Through Yoga and the gift of remembering it brings
You find relationship with all of humanity and all of creation
Body healing now, energy and health abound
A smiling face radiating peaceful love greets you in the mirror.

Night falls…a gentle curtain as you finish your last asana
Unaware, you bring blessings to those around you
Aware, you learn to free yourself of all misconceptions
No worrying over unknown tomorrows, the flower of Life begins to blossom within.

My friends, may you find peace and balance through your own practice as you travel the pathway of your own existence.

Namaste…

Living Life to the Fullest Stretch

Overcoming Trauma through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body

Sean Rogders — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:48:23 +0000

If you have suffered trauma or are a Yoga teacher looking for ways to expand your class offerings, Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga stands alone in providing a complete program developed by clinical experience especially designed to address the needs of trauma survivors.

Survivors of trauma through war, abuse, or accident injury suffer from a multitude of complex disorders primarily centered on dysregulation of the mind-body interaction. These survivors may end up wounded on physical, emotional and mental levels – let down by their body for failing to get them to safety and for failing them still again in the aftermath. Overcoming Trauma through Yoga offers survivors a mindful approach to healing through calm, step-by-step Yoga tailored to their specific requirements in order to engage and awaken the wisdom of their own bodies.

Trauma sensitive Yoga

David Emerson and Elizabeth Hopper begin this landmark resource for Yoga teachers and survivors of trauma with an in-depth look at trauma and post traumatic stress disorder before moving on to the key elements of trauma-sensitive Yoga. Co-designed by David Emerson, Overcoming Trauma through Yoga provides a modified yoga program focused on mindfulness, breathing, and asanas that may be used at home, in a class setting, or in one-to-one therapy. Through this program, trauma survivors are given the necessary tools to cultivate patience, tolerance, and an increased awareness and connectedness of self.

In order to fully heal from trauma, the realization and connectedness of mind, body and spirit must be made. Through the calming and focusing effects of Yoga and the development of mindful awareness, survivors of trauma can bring their bodies into the healing process. This gives survivors of trauma an opportunity to form a new relationship with their bodies despite their physical limitations.

Beyond talk therapy

Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga expands beyond traditional therapies that only focus on the mind to bring the body into the healing process. The trauma-sensitive Yoga provided is described carefully and methodically, and integrates the best that Yoga has to offer. For the Yoga teacher, this book provides individual plans for working with military veterans, children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. An appendix identifying and illustrating specific trauma-sensitive Yoga asanas completes this valuable tome, making it a perfect companion for those taking the road to recovery and those willing to assist.

David Emerson is the director of yoga services at the Trauma Center (traumacenter.org). In 2003, David co-designed the Trauma Center Yoga Program with medical doctor Bessel van der Kolk which includes therapeutic classes as well as teacher training programs. Elizabeth Hopper, PhD., is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in traumatic stress and works as the associate director of training at the Trauma Center.

The basis for the Trauma Yoga Program and its application in Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga is most aptly described directly by David Emerson himself as excerpted from the traumacenter.org website:

The Core of the human body

When we talk about “the core,” two separate but deeply related ideas come up: core strength, and an actual physical center in the body. It is important to understand both concepts if one is to teach trauma sensitive yoga effectively. Core strength involves the musculature from the knees to the solar plexus (bottom of the sternum/breastbone). This “field” makes up more than half of the body! In yoga, we are interested in cultivating strength in this part of the body on the front, back and sides. Having a strong core supports the lower back and stabilizes the knees. Being strong and stable at the core allows one to relax muscles in the neck and shoulders, which often compensate for a weak core and try to “hold up the spine.” One key shift is to learn to support the spine from the base, the root and to not try to hold up the spine with the neck and shoulders (which is often our default). Holding up the spine with the neck and shoulders is very stressful and often leads to tension in the neck and upper back; the breath gets stuck up in the chest, which in turn taxes the nervous system.

Practice

For a moment, try holding up the spine with the neck and shoulders. Feel the shoulders pull up toward the ears and the muscles futilely contract all the way around to the throat. Feel how the muscles strain, sensing that the mechanics here are actually impossible – do you notice anxiety rise up? Can you feel the breath get choppy and erratic, no longer integrated in the muscular effort but perhaps working against it? Now relax. Pause. Come back to the breath.

Let’s begin to find the physical center. Here, while we are engaging strength in the whole field from knees to solar plexus there is a particular emphasis at the center of gravity, the core of the pelvis, located about two inches below the navel and in toward the spine. Sit in your chair preferably toward the front of the chair so the sit bones can be firmly established but if this is painful in the back for now, you may sit back in the chair. Bring your feet to the floor hip width or a little wider. Feel your feet making contact with the floor. Feel the sits bones rooting down through the chair. Take a moment to get centered (gentle movements side to side and forward to back may help. Notice, as you gently move, abdominal muscles beginning to wake up/brighten/engage.) As you come back to the upright Seated Mountain Pose, hug the lower belly in toward the spine. Gently but firmly draw the lower belly in toward a mid point at the core of the pelvis. As you keep the center engaged at the same time allow the lower back to release – a letting go in the lower back. Allow the tailbone to gently lengthen down toward the chair.

Conclusion

When you have established this physical center, you will have a more stable place from which to experience life. Trauma knocks a person off a stable center and this is a big part of the problem. Without a stable center sensation, information etc. coming at you from all directions is very likely to bring you down. When a traumatized individual learns to maintain a center in the midst even of intense sensation they have gained an invaluable tool to help them along the healing process. Yoga, this practice right in the body, can help with exactly this.

I give Overcoming Trauma through Yoga a resounding . As both a teacher’s guide and a superb book for anyone who has experienced trauma, this gem deserves a place on the bookshelf.

Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga: Reclaiming Your Body
ISBN – 1556439695
Available for pre-order with an anticipated date for delivery of April 19, 2011…

Namaste

The Ten Tibetan Breaths

Sean Rogders — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:00:35 +0000

Trust me; it is only comfortable until the tiger starts dreaming…

I do not know about where you are living, but what a week! Temperatures into the 32°C to 37°C range, high humidity, and no end in sight! I’ve turned into a bit of a night owl as of late, enjoying the morning until about ten, and then sleeping until six p.m.; spending the cooler evening and night completing all the activities I enjoy so much to do outside. There is nothing quite like a good hour long session of Yoga and half an hour of Pranayama while you are standing on the highest spot for fifty miles or more under a star filled sky in utter silence – your breath the only intrusion on the serenity of the night.

Ravaging Beast!

There is something comfortable about the night. Instead of fearing the dark and what horrors or ravaging beast it may produce, I embrace the ability to melt into the night. In the silence that the wee hours of the morning bring, my thoughts are loud and intrusive – easy to recognize and allow fading into silence. In becoming one with the shadows, I attach more effortlessly with the sense of connectivity and oneness that restores my soul and gives me strength for the next day’s adventures…

We continue today with the remaining five of the ten Tibetan Breaths. I encourage you to perform these breaths as an addition to your regular practices as they bring health, vitality and balance to your entire being. For something new and quite peaceful, perform these breaths outside at night, in a space you feel comfortable and secure in.

The Breath of Vibration:

Stand straight with your arms at your sides, placing your feet several inches apart. Inhale fully and deeply with your mouth closed and hold the breath. Retain the breath as you rotate your arms together out in front of you and then upwards and all the way around three times. The motion should be relatively forceful and yet relaxed at the same time.

After completing the third swing, return your arms to your side and exhale forcefully through the mouth. This completes one breath and should be performed a maximum of seven times. It is best to begin with three breaths as with breaths talked about in part one of the articles found here.

The Sun within the Heart Breath:

To perform the Sun within the Heart Breath, sit in either full lotus or in a cross-legged position with your spine straight and loose. One of the simplest ways of naturally and powerfully sitting is to imagine that your are suspended by an invisible silver thread that starts not in the center of the crown of your head, but begins within the center of Muladhara or what is also known as the root Chakra.

Visualize this invisible silver thread extending upward through each of your Chakras and then leaving through your crown Chakra and disappearing upward. Allow yourself to be suspended naturally in this posture and feel your chakras building energy as they are energized through their connection to the Divine. Your arms should be extended straight out in front of you with your hands clenched into fists with knuckles facing each other and thumbs on top. In this position, exhale fully through the mouth as much as possible.

Inhale slowly and deeply through the nose and pull your fists towards you, visualizing that you are drawing the sun into the center of your chest. When you have completed the inhalation, your fists should be tucked close to your armpits. Hold the breath for as long as you can comfortably and continue to visualize the sun burning brightly in the center of your chest. Holding this position, exhale fully through the mouth and then return your hands to your knees for a moment. This completes one full breath and may be performed a maximum of seven times daily. As before, start with three times and work your way up to seven as you feel comfortable. The Sun within the Heart Breath purifies the heart Chakra which is the center for love and compassion as well as acting on the thymus gland to enhance disease immunity.

Initiate’s Breath

Stand straight with your feet about shoulder’s width apart and your hands on your hips. In this position, take a long deep breath through your nose and retain the breath. Still retaining the breath, bend as far to the right as you can comfortably and then bend to the left. Repeat this three times, come up straight and exhale forcefully through the mouth. This completes one full breath and may be repeated to a maximum of seven times per day. As with the others, judge yourself accordingly once you feel comfortable with three complete breaths.

The Initiate’s Breath stimulates lower spinal energy and concentrates the force of the Kundalini Shakti (also known as the sacred source of empowerment) at the base of the spine. This is one of the most powerful of all breaths and is very useful for breaking up blockages in the human energy system.

The Breath of the Immortals:

Stand straight with your feet several inches apart and your hands on your hips. In this position, take a long deep breath in through the nose and retain the breath while tucking your chin into your chest and then swinging your head up and back. This is repeated three times while retaining the breath, insure your back remains straight and you do not become forceful enough to sway your body. In the breath retention phase of this exercise, only the head moves.

After the third swing of your head, exhale forcefully through pursed lips while bending forward as far as is comfortable and then swinging your upper body up and back. This should be repeated three times during the exhale phase. Strive to avoid bending the legs when swinging forward and be aware of your lower back through both the forward swing and backward arch of the exhale.

Upon completion of the third swing during the exhale phase, return to standing upright, hands still on your hips, and inhale through the nose. Relax here for a second normal breath before repeating the Breath of the Immortals to a maximum of seven times. This breath activates all the Chakras and stimulates the flow of Kundalini Shakti. The Breath of the Immortals supercharges the entire glandular system and remains one of the best health-building breaths to practice.

Shakti Breath:

Begin this breath by assuming either a full lotus position, Zazen (on the knees sitting back on heels), or in a chair where you can remain comfortably upright. Your spine should be as straight as possible but not strained. Place your hands behind your head with your fingers interlocking and your elbows straight out to the sides. In this position, inhale fully and deeply through the nose and retain the breath.

Holding the breath, bend forward from the hips as far as is comfortable. Hold this position to a count of seven. Return to the first position and exhale through the mouth with lips pursed. This completes one breath. Shakti Breath may be performed a maximum of seven times daily. As with many of the other breaths, begin with three and advance at your own pace. The Shakti Breath works directly on raising Kundalini energy up the spine and is very powerful. This particular breath is an excellent breath to practice prior to meditation.

Namaste, my friends. May the last weeks of summer be enjoyable for you and your loved ones…Remember; there is no shame in being just a little excited at the kids going back to school!

Sean Rogders J

The Ten Tibetan Breaths – Part One

Sean Rogders — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 01:46:15 +0000

I have spent the last week or so touring about twenty schools teaching many different types of Yoga, Tao Chi, Kung Fu, Qi Gong, and freestyle martial arts. My thought was to return and write an interesting piece on the commonalities between each discipline and their core underlying systems. When I finished my journey, I found myself back where I have started from so many times – with the breath.

I cannot stress enough the importance of breath and the regular control of breath as a doorway to truly integrating your body with your mind and spirit. There is no technique I have studied or learned about from others that does not rely on the importance of breathing exercises to strengthen every aspect of the body, mind and spiritual connectivity of an individual. The following breathing exercises were born from Tibet in the early 1900’s by a geographer named Dingle, whose life was transformed by his experiences there and founded the science of Mentalphysics upon his return to the United States.

The Balancing Breath:

Sit in a cross-legged position with the spine straight. Blocking your right nostril with your right thumb, inhale steadily through your left nostril for a count of four. Hold the breath to a count of sixteen. Block off your left nostril with your left thumb, and exhale steadily through the right to a count of four. Perform the balancing breath four times, twice inhaling through the left nostril and twice inhaling through the right nostril.

The balancing breath balances the solar/lunar or positive/negative forces of the mind-body. This breath creates a balance of Yin and Yang by activating the energy channels which run from each nostril over the head and alongside the spinal column. The balancing breath creates harmony within and may be practised up to four times daily; upon rising, at noon, at dusk, and just prior to retiring for the night.

The Breath of Power:

Begin this breathing exercise by standing straight with your arms by your sides as in mountain pose. Inhale deeply and completely, filling yourself with the breath to your maximum capacity. Hold the breath as long as possible, working your way towards a full half-minute goal. Exhale powerfully through the mouth with your lips pursed. As you exhale, draw your lower abdomen in tightly, squeezing the breath out. When you have completed the exhalation, inhale lightly, exhale, and relax for a moment.

The breath of power may be performed up to seven times in a day and supercharges the mind-body. This breath saturates your entire system with prana, the energy of breath and life itself. The breath of power develops mental clarity, purifies the blood, and builds strong, powerful lungs.

Brain Breath:

Sit cross-legged with your spine straight, or on a chair or stool – again, make sure your spine is straight and relaxed. Place your hands on your thighs with the palms up. Lower your head and relax your shoulders. Inhaling through the nose, swing your head all the way back. The inhalation and the motion of the head should be short and forceful, but pay attention to your body and do not swing backward into an uncomfortable position. Exhale forcefully through the teeth as you swing your head forward, chin to your chest.

Repeat the breath and motions seven times without pausing between breaths. When finished, take a long, deep breath and relax for a moment. This constitutes one full round of the brain breath. This breath may be performed a maximum of seven full rounds, or forty nine breaths in total. The brain breath charges the brain with energy, increases blood flow to the base of the brain, and increases the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This breathing technique is reputed to stimulate the Medulla which is at the base of the brain and is the center for memory function. Through brain breathing, memory may be enhanced or partially to fully restored in some cases.

Aura building breath:

Stand perfectly straight with your arms by your sides. Inhale deeply through the nose, raise your arms straight out to the sides and then up above your head, placing the backs of your hands together. Your arms should be stretched as high as possible while holding your breath for several seconds. Exhale a quarter of your breath through pursed lips as you lower your arms to a 120° angle, exhale another quarter as your arms come to 90°, another quarter through 45°, and the final quarter of your exhale as your hands reach your sides again. The aura building breath may be performed a maximum of seven times, but it is recommended to start with three and work your way towards the goal of seven breaths.

The aura building breath expands and strengthens the aura, which is the energy field which surrounds and emanates from all of us. This aura acts as a protective and healing ‘bubble’ encompassing your being. As the aura becomes stronger and brighter, it filters out psychic static and negative vibratory energy. A strong and healthy aura heightens your sensitivity and makes you keenly aware of subtle changes in your environment.

The Invincible Breath:

Stand up straight with your feet several inches apart. Your arms should be held out straight in front of you, together and with the hands in fists so your knuckles are facing each other. Take a full, deep breath through the nose and hold it. Holding the breath, swing your arms straight back as far as they will go comfortably; then swing them forward again. Repeat this three times. As you complete the third repetition, exhale with your lips pursed and bring your arms to your sides and rest for a few breaths.

This completes one full breath, which may be repeated no more than seven times. As with the aura building breath, start out with three complete breaths and work your way towards the goal of seven breaths. The invincible breath stimulates the thymus gland, which lies at the center of the chest. Regular practice of this breath develops the immune system and builds a greater resistance to disease.

Next week we will finish the second five breaths and discuss the Mentalphysics institute and their teachings which originated from Tibet through a lineage of llama’s dating back a thousand years. Peace to you on your own journeys, and may the sunshine shine warmly on you as we enjoy the last weeks of our beautiful summer.

Namaste.

Garbha Pindasana – Womb or Embryo Pose

Sean Rogders — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:33:28 +0000

I had no plans to move off topic today, until I happened to overhear one of the men who live in the same rooming house I occupy talking with his son. I should explain a bit here first – I chose after the experiences of my forty day retreat from the world to dedicate my life to helping others on their level, bringing Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, meditation and a willingness to listen to people who rarely are given the opportunity to be heard by someone living on their level.

An Oasis

In order to accomplish this, I moved to a smaller community with difficult substance abuse and prostitution issues. The rooming house I share with nine other men has become an oasis of sorts over the last few months. Located right dead center on the street frequented by prostitutes both too young and yet old at the same time; our rooming house was a heavily trafficked location when I first moved in. Over time, a few of the men here participate in Yoga, look forward to and attend meditation sessions and most have come to speak to me about one problem or another in their lives. I can’t say it has been easy, money is a steady concern, but at the same time everything has a way of working out. I survive, as the people often thought of as the dregs of our society do…day by day.

The father, who shall remain nameless, truly has a kind and gentle heart clouded by addiction and a desire for material wealth supported by selling any drug available. We have talked often, but his health has been failing for some time and he has become a man waiting to die, bitter, refusing treatment, and living on the edge wherever possible. The father’s twenty-seven year old son has suffered s few costly mistakes already, yet attends my yoga class infrequently and has told me often that he wants to learn his lessons.

Blown away

I entered into hearing range just in time to hear the son say to the father he wished he had enough money for a good car. The father’s response nearly knocked me off my feet when I heard him tell his child if he can pimp out five good looking girls he can by a new Cadillac for cash in only three months. Needless to say, I’m going to approach the both of them on the subject as soon as the opportunity arises….

I also hear the comments in response to the endless stream of crack addicted prostitutes by some of the residents when we are sitting out talking on the front deck, as well as the property owner as well I’m afraid, and I am heartbroken. It takes willpower and compassion to see through the pain most of these men are in and find the light within them, but at the same time it made me realize something much more profound: Western society has lost the memory of the importance, value and need for the feminine aspect to be integrated equally in the very hearts of men if true equality is to exist.

Womb or Embryo pose

In honour of my own mother who passed away many years ago, the women who walk the street here who are daughters and quite often mothers themselves, mothers and daughters everywhere, and the wonderful owner of this website who is a mother herself and a daughter – I added an Ashtanga asana to my routine today and set my intention on contemplating the blessings of the feminine side on physical, mental and spiritual levels. Garbha Pindasana (womb embryo pose) is a wonderful posture that can help accelerate the spiritual union between one’s mind and soul, slim and shape the abdomen, improve digestion and repair stomach illnesses.

Garbha Pindasana is a fairly difficult pose for me personally, as I have had some past trouble with one knee flexing enough to sit comfortably in lotus position, so please judge for yourself whether you are ready to experience this posture before trying it yourself and take advantage of the variations offered here when necessary:

Technique

Exhale slowly… Place the legs in full lotus position, and slide your arms in until the back of the elbows rest inside the thighs. Place your hands on your face, covering your cheeks, or do half lotus and place your arms around the legs, or do the lightest variant of this pose and hold your legs with your hands.

Inhale… Sit up on the edge of your sit bones. Look forward and maintain this position for five comfortable breaths. Exhale… Roll back and forth clockwise seven to ten times with deep breathing.

Inhale… Roll up and lift up your body with your hands, resuming whichever of the three variants you are comfortable with and maintain for another five long, comfortable breaths. Exhale, release and straighten the legs.

In my meditations while performing this pose and the rest of my usual evening routine, I considered that as a man, allowing my feminine side to express itself has led to creativity, a deeper connectedness with my own emotional states, and a greater sense of compassion for others when I consider the power of a mother’s bond to her children. I realize that without my mother, I would have never been given the gift of being born into this world.

Peace to you…and Namaste

Yoga Anatomy

Sean Rogders — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:39:45 +0000

As an avid Yoga practitioner, I do on occasion find myself shaking my head when a new muscle comes into play that I can’t say I’ve felt before. Avid may not be the right word; I do have an ongoing issue with self-competition and admit that I tend to push myself a little past ‘comfortable’ from time to time. For those times when I pull something I don’t recognize, Yoga Anatomy by Leslie Kaminoff is the only place I look. As a teacher or aspiring teacher, this wonderful little tome shows the use of specific muscles and addresses everything from joint action and obstacles to the Asana to breathing and variations that may be used.

Flex and extend

Yoga Anatomy begins with chapters on the spine and breathing dynamics as both are universally seen as being central to each Asana. Particular attention is paid to proper breathing dynamics including use of the diaphragm and the physical aspects of both the chest and abdominal cavities during proper breathing. This information is then linked to flexion and extension of the spine during the breathing process.

Over sixty Asanas are portrayed organized into chapters on sitting, kneeling, supine, arm supported prone, and standing poses. Each Asana is depicted by Sharon Ellis, a medical illustrator for more than twenty five years in New York. Every illustration depicts the relevant muscles coming into play in red, while points which contact the ground are drawn in blue. The Asanas are first introduced by its Sanskrit name and then its English equivalent. A transliteration of each Sanskrit name is also provided, and the individual elements are also broken down into their core meanings. In example, padmasana translates as padma – “Lotus throne” and asana, which needs no translation!

Clear and concise

The concise and clear format of Yoga Anatomy provides a great deal of information on the one or two pages given for each pose. Each pose is assigned a degree of difficulty; and then the joint action is indicated. The contraction and lengthening of the muscles are described specifically, followed by a section entitled “Obstacles and Notes” where common obstacles are addressed and suggested solutions are provided. A section on how the pose affects the breath and any breath adjustments that should be made in the pose. Where required, an additional section references any cautions, variations or pertinent notes.

A tissue for my issues

My issues…Way too many to talk about even on a never-ending webpage! Seriously though, the muscle names are in Latin and you may have to look up a few of the medical terms you may be unfamiliar with. Outside from these minor concerns, Yoga Anatomy offers any reader an opportunity to come to know their own muscles and the integral effects of proper posture and breathing. In referencing the anatomical illustrations and then focusing on the areas of the body and visualizing the muscle and ‘feeling’ the contraction or extension, I have made noticeable gains in flexibility and a lack of stiffness from time to time that I once experienced.

If you are not at a stage where you can easily feel the specific targeted muscle in your asanas; Yoga Anatomy is an excellent quick reference guide that will not take hardly any extra room in your exercise bag. As an instructor, Yoga Anatomy is a must have for lesson planning and designing individualized programs for those who may have obstacles preventing them from working through poses in the traditional manner.

Leslie Kaminoff is a TKV Desikachar student and is an internationally recognized expert in Yoga and breath anatomy. I personally give Yoga Anatomy .

I find my worst enemy is the same enemy we all have…ourselves.
What I fight against really does not exist,
It is only distorted reflection of true self.
Muscle, sinew, tendon, joint…
Extensions of mind alone.
Allow spirit and silence to guide you

Namaste

——

Yoga Anatomy
Leslie Kaminoff, ISBN-10: 0736062785, 2007

Healing Yoga: A Book Review

Symbiation – The Journey into Self

Sean Rogders — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 22:40:47 +0000

Image credit: lovespeakes.com

Welcome again! A brief report first, for those who have been following the Yoga of the Sun articles Part One and Part two:

Sunshine Report

I have just entered the third week of practicing the sun-gazing technique, and I am happy to report that I am beginning to notice subtle changes in my levels of calmness and quietness of mind. I am looking forward to continuing the practice and will from time to time provide updates as to any effects that become manifest. If you have yet to read these two articles, please do! We are going to pick up where we left off with the article The Jewel at the Heart of the Lotus, and talk about meditation, how Symbiation bypasses issues with our modern society, and a little on what or who we really are.

Modern resistance to Meditation

In terms of human history, meditation as a practice in modern society is still in its infancy (more profoundly so in North America) and fails to have the impact it should for many reasons. This does not mean to say there is not profound benefit and advancement towards a more connected self available through meditation at all, quite the opposite is true. There are however, three fundamental flaws in the majority of meditation techniques that need to be addressed:

Meditation techniques in the West are based for the most part on ancient traditions of practice, many with very specific demands to be placed on time, diet and other factors which do not easily transfer into Western lifestyle.
There is a degree of rigidity as there is with any tradition or technique which can span in some cases five thousand years. This rigidity often fails to take into account the current state of the modern world, as well as failing to understand that we are indeed a media-driven society.
Yoga and other active forms of meditation have in many cases been reduced to an almost purely physical component, with little stress put onto the subtler, deeper truths that these wonderful techniques have to offer. To paraphrase Iyengar in Light On Yoga, Yoga without all its integral practices is nothing more than calisthenics.

Sight driven world

One of the primary benefits of Symbiation lays in its ability to not only engage our minds, but also our primary sense; sight. This is especially fitting for Western culture and our need for external stimuli in order to find something interesting enough to hold our attention for any length of time. Traditional practitioners of meditation concentrate on achieving awareness through gradually becoming focused until such time as input from the five senses ceases almost entirely. Although this is still a perfectly valid practice and one whose success in the East and in the West is demonstrable, many of us born into Western culture are too used to instant gratification to benefit as quickly as necessary from these techniques.

Symbiation allows any practitioner new or experienced to use their sense of sight as strength instead of seeing attachment to one of the senses as a weakness. Symbiation embodies exposing our subconscious mind to visual ‘Keys to the Kingdom,’ unlocking genetically encoded information and affecting change at a cellular level and beyond to the quantum level without conscious direction or explanation. This is the inherent power of symbols – their ability to bypass our consciousness completely while unlocking our sub consciousness and affecting change that can instantaneously raise our level of awareness.

Do you know Your Self?

The first thing we must understand if we are to achieve full awareness through Symbiation is why we are here in the first place and who and what we really are. All of the ancient mystical traditions are united in answering these questions. They each claim in different words perhaps, that we are essentially shards of Divine Consciousness emanating from the Creator out of itself and manifested in this physical dimension to make the journey back to conscious union with the Creator.

For a Buddhist, this common purpose is to be incarnated here on Earth to unfold our innate Buddha-nature and enter into conscious awareness of its peace, bliss, and all-encompassing knowledge. For the Hindu mystics of the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads, the meaning of existence lies in realizing the essential unity of our individual soul (the Atman) with Brahman, the eternal timeless consciousness that is at once manifesting all things and yet beyond all physical manifestation.

Sufis claim that the human being has a unique relationship with God because God fashioned us with his own hands while creating the Universe by Divine Word. Sufi mystics believe that God breathed his own being into us, sowing a seed in our innermost core a memory of our origin in Him and decreed that the whole purpose of life on Earth should be to return in full awareness to Him, whose children we are.

Christian mystics such as Eckhart see the soul of man as being born into a physical body and placed on this Earth to undertake the journey to an awareness and ‘marriage’ with the inner Christ and his divine knowledge and compassion. For Taoists such as Lao-Tzu and Chang-Tzu, the whole of the Universe is a manifestation of the mystery of the unnameable – named Tao, which simply means ‘The Way.’ The person who realizes their own nature also realizes their own essential unity on all levels with The Tao (substitute God if Tao makes you uncomfortable) in perfect harmony with all of Creation.

Divine Truth

When we look past the different terms employed by the various mystical systems and even most recognized monotheistic religions, we realize we are all talking about the same divine truth – that we are all children of the Creator and have been put here to make this realization in our physical form. This relationship awakens us to the realization that our fundamental consciousness is one with The Divine, and that we have never been nor can be separate from The Creator.

This extraordinary truth is spoken of in every major religion, if in different ways: Christ says in the Gospel; “The Kingdom of God is within you.” Rinpoche states that “nothing needs to be added, it is merely the Divine looking naturally at itself.” The mantra commonly chanted throughout India and many Eastern countries “Om Mani Padme Hum” is interpreted as “the jewel at the heart of the Lotus” – referencing the divine nature within us.

I leave this wonderful little tidbit to close this day, my friends. We are all divine nature, the ground each of us walks upon is holy ground, and the supply and bounty of all creation has been provided for us. Peace to you this wonderful August day.

Namaste.