Yoga pioneer/berkshires/brattleboro too!

Setting Up Your First Website for Yoga Teachers, Massage The

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:32:00 +0000

Setting Up Your First Website for Yoga Teachers, Massage The: As a yoga teacher or massage therapist- it can be hard choosing a domain name for your new holistic website. Choosing a domain name would seem easy. But unless you are a famous yoga teacher like Shiva Rea (lucky enough to have an uncommon name) and people are looking for you by name, it’s harder. At this point it’s 2011-2012 almost and a lot

Go Hear Unique Western Vocal & Musics of Tibet, Mongolia, and India

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 23:37:00 +0000

HI YOGI'S Been absent for awhile-but just got this email I wanted to share from Florence Yoga:

“It is our intention to create something so beautiful that it will change people’s lives. Falling short of that, we hope to provide people with a moment of peaceful contemplation and transformation." - Baird Hersey

Baird Hersey and PRANA, Saturday March 5, 7:30 pm. $25 in advance/$30 at the door. Presented by Florence Yoga.
Tickets available at the door or online!

Prana’s unique music is a mixture of western vocal music and the musics of Tibet, Mongolia, and India. Each singer has the ability to produce two pitches at once, creating beautiful rising harmonies, shimmering vocal textures, and high arcing melodies, that are at once inspiring, mysterious, transporting and sublime.

PRANA was formed by musician, composer and National Endowment Fellow Baird Hersey in 2000. For Information or to hear their latest CD with Krishna Das, Gathering in the Light, go to: www.PranaSound.com
See and hear Prana on You Tube!

Amy Ippoliti on Why Do/Teach Yoga

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:31:00 +0000

Short video from respected Anusara yoga teacher Amy Ippoliti, on being Yoga Journal cover girl and more importantly what she gets from her yoga practice as pratitioner and teacher! She says it really well, for me too as to why teaching yoga is fulfilling...

Surviving And Thriving Despite Unemployment/Housing Loss and other Bad Bad Things!

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 02:57:00 +0000

Latest 1/21: YOGI/INI'S Check out my How to Quit Your Life: Without Becoming Homeless published at Elephant Journal. It's pretty inspiring/bittersweet reading especially for all of us the, ex-un-employed, reinventing or dreaming of reinventing your lives contingent! It covers being unemployed, temporarily homeless, depressed, anxious hmmm relocation etc. It's my story-the first part anyway. I'd love to be published more on EJ, so please leave a comment show me some luv over there!

Thanks, Kala

A Healthy Pre-Yoga Energy Drink

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:47:00 +0000

Hi, all hope the new year is going great for you, here's a quick recipe that I created. You know how you feel light headed or weary if you have nothing on your stomach before a vigorous yoga. But you can't eat a meal-yoghurt works, but here's a nice hot drink that tides me over till I can have a meal post-yoga. It's winter in New England where I am and lots of snow on the ground so it's nice to have a hot healthy energy drink based on Ayurvedic principals.
Some of you know my occasional recipes are fairly open, use your own judgment and adjust to your palate!

By Abhisek Sarda @Flickr

Almond Date Brew

1 thin sliver Fresh Ginger (remove skin)

5 Almonds-Presoaked in hot water, till skins loosen remove skin
1 cup water
2T Hemp Seeds/could use 1T Flax instead (it will tend to thicken drink fast though)
1 or 2 Dates (not diglet) medjool are much better, softer
1/4 tsp. Spices such as 5 spices/pumpkin pie spice/or just cinammon or cardomon
pinch of salt
(1 serving)

Options:

bit of vanilla or almond extract would be nice
If you tend have lot of mucus in morn, add more fresh ginger, bit of blk pepper, cin. (they are warming/drying spices) more Kapha type
If very Vata condition-(see below or Banyan Botanicals* link) then perhaps replace 1/2 cup water with milk

Soak the dates in the hot water with the almonds to soften them. Discard almond skins, they release in about 5 min of soaking. Basically add all ingredients to blender with 1/2 cup water. Grind into a meal, puree. Then add rest of liquid, blend till smooth add more water to thin if desired. I then heat it gently. If you are a "raw foodie" then just don't use hot water or reheat. And have it cool. To remove the almond skins I do think you need warm water. But for vata types, skinny/easily chilled/dry skin/etc. serve hot is best!

Try Meditation Post-Yoga
While drinking your brew and after yoga of course-check out my post "5 Reasons Meditation Is Better Than Sex" over at my other blog. After yoga is the best time to try meditation, which is one of the higher aspects of yoga beyond asanas. It's starts tongue in cheek, but is really an intro to meditation for beginners. That blog, Embark-Love the Life you Live, is about the Yoga of Manifestation: Practical spiritual tools to create change and live your dreams!

Ayurvedic Info & Herbs
Do check out the Banyan Botanicals link above, their products are high quality herbs and oils (for massage or body care.) Taking the test alone is very helpful, and check out these books, I have Yoga & Ayurveda and A Life of
Balance, the latter is more introductory by Maya Tiwari, who healed herself of cancer. The Yoga & Ayurveda one requires more background in both topics. Both highly
recommended.

Your comments and questions are so appreciated. Be in touch,
Namaste, Kala

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Planetary Changes A Spiritual Perspective Part 3

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 02 Jan 2011 19:55:00 +0000

I got chills reading this and it's truth just rang out for me and I thought I'd share it with you my readers. Ahimsa means to cause no harm, peacefulness, in an active sense.
Mother Maya (Maya Tiwari) is a world renowned spiritual teacher and a cancer survivor who has helped thousands to heal from devastating disorders. She is an acclaimed author of several best-selling books and the founder of Wise Earth School of Ayurveda, Mother Om Mission, and Living Ahimsa Foundation. Her quarter-century long humanitarian work and service transform disease, despair and violence into health, harmony and prosperity. www.mothermaya.com http://www.mypeacevow.com/

Living Ahimsa~
Reclaiming Love & Harmony in the Golden Age
By Mother Maya
On the Living Ahimsa (non-harming) World Tour Mother Maya presents the imperative work for each one of us to take back the world of love, inner harmony and happiness. She teaches us to cement the indelible bonds that bind us together as a human family- love, humor, enlightenment, kindness and compassion. The perfection of the present time makes it possible for each one of us to harvest our serenity.

This is a momentous period when each and every human being will have the unprecedented opportunity to invoke their rite of consciousness. We have arrived at the Golden Age. 5011 years into Kali Yuga, as predicted by the Rishis whom, eons ago, identified this period of universal time as the phenomenal Yuga for the rapid progression of individual awareness. Whether or not we chose to participate in awareness, the universal space and time in which we live is fashioning a new order rooted in the cosmic wisdom of her age. At this moment, our minds and hearts are being retooled with sentiency necessary to meet the cosmic requirements of a new emerging reality. That is, if we can receive the gift to stay open in spirit whist we shift habituated patterns of mind into a place of serenity. We have a golden chance to rise to the demand of our own personal power, but "power" here is being redefined as harvesting our human sentiency, and not as material gains, fame, notoriety and so on. To accomplish this way of living, we pare down excesses, simplify our daily lives, and reclaim innocence. We have got to be prepared to do the inner work in cultivating awareness in our thoughts, speech and action.

Contrary to popular belief, this is not a Yuga of cosmic punishment as in the perception of "Doomsday" or "End of World" scenarios. We are in a cycle of natural progression in the universe's evolution. This is a time for individual and collective awareness. The universe is processing a massive rebirth for which we must expect a prescient degree of death, disease, despair and destruction. To cross this critical juncture, we must reclaim our human sentiency and be mindful and conscious of the operation of our mind thought, speech and action. In so doing, we can make a quantum leap onto the next phase of our consciousness evolution. We are living in an unusual time of golden opportunity, and phenomenal chances when we can easily shift negative patterns of the mind into a more sentient place for harvesting serenity, happiness and prosperity. If we can get past the fears and fragility that come from human attachment and material loss we will be able to transcend today into tomorrow.

Living Ahimsa is a perfect work for our time. As we take the necessary time to pause, to step back from our overdriven and challenged lives, we create the space to grow. Let your loving Living Ahimsa intent invoke a time for awakening the heart. In creating the inner space to let go of expired karmas we sum up the courage it requires to assimilate into the open light of love. In this way, we move in harmony with the cosmic sway of our new era.

Ultimately, the work of Living Ahimsa restores the spiritual voice. We must take back the world of harmony from the political and religious authority in order to bring an end to the propagation of war, battle, competition, seizure, acquisition, and the general degradation of nature. At this very moment, everything is being changed forever. The worn-out approaches have lost their power for us. The paradigm of leadership is rapidly changing across the global landscape. The traditional model of hierarchal control and patriarchal command is swiftly falling apart. Living Ahimsa brings about a renewal of spirit; an infusion of purpose and meaning that is already taking shape in the formation of love, honor, harmony, and prosperity for all. In this new epoch where harmony rules, we are apt to be inspired by the collaboration, authenticity, and empowerment of all cultures.

Let us, together, clean out the affairs of all past years, shred the baggage of burdens, let go of the regrets, empty the mind and keep alive the heart whilst we sum up the courage to go forward in Oneness and allow innocence to live for the length of our years in eternity. Join me in renewing the Ahimsa Vrata to cultivate inner harmony and world peace for nature and all of her species. "I take the Vow of Ahimsa. I make inner harmony my first priority. I take the Vow of Ahimsa in my thoughts, speech and action".

Blessings for the New Year!
Mother Maya

Why We Shouldn't Destroy the Planet-Planetary Changes Pt. 2

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 21:13:00 +0000

Hey Yogi's/Yogini's,
Just watched this TED Talks by Wade Davis, he is an anthropologist, I think Harvard trained. It is an uplifting, fascinating talk on cultural diversity in the world and the need to preserve it. Of course you probably agree, but his images and his rationale for the incredible importance of not destroying other cultures is really moving. He makes even the very conscious amongst us aware of our own sense of superiority and belief that we are the most advanced culture. Watch it. And I'd love to hear your comments. There is a story toward the end about an Inuit (?) that will blow you mind! like a MaGiver of the tundra, who was simply an old man who had the deep knowledge of how to live in that frozen environment.

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=sattvayogaand-20&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;o=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;p=8&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;l=bpl&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;asins=0684834960&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;fc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;IS2=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt1=_blank&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;m=amazon&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;bc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;f=ifr" style="padding-top: 5px; width: 131px; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" align="left" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Nutty Amaranth Snack

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 19:55:00 +0000

Om my goodness, some of my wonderful food innovations go unnoticed by the outside world and that needs to be remedied. Well. Here it is: nothing to do with yoga, everything to do with tasty healthy food. Notice the use of the word innovations-I'm brilliant at using what I have in unconventional or at least new to me ways. So I had nuts in my pantry; and wanted a warming snack after a long cold nature walk (and lunch!) and unusual for me I wasn't craving the sweet taste.

Improv Nutty Amarnath Snack
10 min cook time

3/4 c. Nuts-walnuts and raw cashews (sub. almonds/peanuts)
Tsp Braggs amino acids thingy (sub. soy sauce)
1/2-1 Tsp. brown sugar
Tsp Olive oil
2 Tbsp. amaranth
1-2 Tbsp. sesame or hemp seeds
dash of chipolte pepper (gives a nice smoky flavor) powder or (black or cayenne lesser substitutes)

OK put nuts into frying pan on low, sprinkle bit of olive oil, stir fairly constantly, for 3-5 min. Then squirt in Braggs and sprinkle brown sugar, stir. After 2 min or so nice brown coating has formed, add sprinkle of chipolte pepper powder. Add amaranth & seeds, 1-2 more minutes it will stick to nuts. I added a bit of water like 1-2 tsp. to loosen the spice coating from the pan but not necessary-use your judgment. Taste, adjust spices. It's great blend of hot, sweet, salty and spicy, and nice texture too. Sort of Asian feel.
This would be good after a home yoga practice if you had a jar of it ready.

Namaste, Kala

YOGA Workshops NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:58:00 +0000

Hi Happy Holidays Yogi's, please peruse click on site name of studio for final info and to register for your hearts delight. YP is labor of love and takes no responsibility for cancellations, typos or errors. Namaste Baby.

FLORENCE YOGA

(ASHTANTGA YOGA)

140 Pine Street ~ Suite 12
Florence, MA 01062
413-250-9399 info@florenceyoga.com

Check out my two part interview with Michelle Ryan, Florence Yoga Director about Ashtanga Yoga.

Beginners Ashtanga Yoga Course-Preregistration Required!
FIVE Wednesdays at 6pm
JAN 19 - FEB 16
PLUS 2 free drop in classes! Just $50

Ashtanga Second Series Sundays in 2011!

January 30, February 27 and March 27

1-3 pm $20 each workshop

Second Series is challenging, invigorating, enlightening and fun. It is the next step for Ashtanga practitioners who want to deepen their yoga practice. Second Series, or Nadi Shodana, nerve purification...

KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS

25 Main Street, Third Floor • Northampton, MA 01060

413.584.5054 • info@karunayoga.com

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Edwin Bryant

Sat. Dec. 18th 2-6pm classical ancient Indian treatise on the practice of Yoga. While Yoga conjures up images of bodily postures and stretches in popular western culture, this aspect of yoga, the asanas, is only the third limb of the eight limbs outlined in the Yoga Sutras — and, indeed, Patanjali pays only passing attention to this aspect of the system...(see Karuna Yoga for more)

Edwin Bryant received his Ph.D in Indic languages and Cultures from Columbia University. He taught Hinduism at Harvard University for three years, and is presently the professor of Hinduism at Rutgers University where he teaches courses on Hindu philosophy and religion. He has received numerous awards and fellowships, published six books....

YOGA SANCTUARY

150 Main St

Northampton, MA 01060

413-585-YOGA

The Practice with Amy Reed
Come play your heart out in this rockin' intermediate- advanced practice!

This is a guided adventure where the instructor practices along side the students, offering individual instruction and demonstrations when necessary. Be ready to play together and support each other in radical expansion.

Pre-requisites: A good understanding of Anusara's Universal Principles of Alignment, and the ability to do handstand at the wall and full backbend unassisted.

$25/session, or $20 per session for 2 or more.
Saturdays 1:30 - 4:30pm - ~~September 18, October 9~~ and December 18

Anatomy & Therapeutics Workshop with Martin Kirk

Master Anusara Anatomical Principles and learn how to apply them to the body therapeutically!

Friday,

January 21 - 23, 2011

Therapeutics for Common Injuries: 5:30 - 8:30pm

regular fee: $60, before January 5 - $54

Saturday, Jan. 22:

Anatomy of the Legs and Knees : 9-12pm

Therapeutics for Legs and Knees: 2-5pm

regular fee: $120, before January 5 - $108

Sunday, Jan. 23:

Anatomy of the Shoulders and Arms : 9-12pm

Therapeutics for Shoulders and Arms: 2-5pm

regular fee: $120, before January 5 - $108

FULL WEEKEND discount: $265, before January 5 - $240

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA

17 Strong Ave.

Northampton, MA

(413)585.1099

This looks like so much fun! And you dont' have to come with a partner to participate.

AcroYoga Fundamentals
with Bonnie Argo and Brian Lam
Saturday, January 29, 1-4pm
$45 through January 15, $50 afteremail info@northamptonyoga.net.

OPEN AND DEEPEN YOUR PRACTICE with the ease, comfort and the support of a partner. This workshop touches upon all the disciplines that the ancient lineages of Yoga, Acrobatics and Thai Massage have to offer, forming the foundation of a unique practice which cultivates trust, connection and playfulness...

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA 384 Main St. (rte 10) Easthampton, MA 01027(see Amherst studio below)

(413) 527-7705

Holiday Yoga Special: 24 classes for $240!

Use until March 31, 2011. Family and friends can share (age 14 and up.) Good for use at EITHER of our studios.

Note: This is a NO EXTENSIONS card. The expiration date cannot be changed.

BRING YOUR PAYPAL RECEIPT to the studio to redeem for your 24 class card.

Also offering ongoing:

Hypnotherapy Sessions

HIGH DEMAND IS EXPECTED IN JANUARY. MY CLIENT LIST IS ALMOST FULL ALREADY. CALL OR EMAIL NOW AND PRE-RESERVE FOR JANUARY OR BOOK YOUR FIRST SESSION IN DECEMBER--AVOID THE WAIT LIST.

- Call 413-561-6696 or email to get a free 20 min. session. Sounds interesting. mailto:info@mamanirvana.com

Soul Guidance Sessions- "Soul guidance is spiritually-based coaching." 90 min. or more $85.

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON

241 King Street . Suite 118

Northampton MA 01060

413.586.0014.

Holiday Schedule:
Dec 24: 9 am & 2 pm
Dec 25: Closed
Dec 31: 9 am, 4 pm & 10:30 pm

Ring in the new year at Bikram Yoga Noho!

Jan 1: 9 am & 4 pm

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST
17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE: Closed Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve at 1 pm

Winter Solstice Celebration

2 hours of sun salutations

Wednesday, December 22
from 5 - 7PM

We join together two times a year to celebrate the coming and the receding of the light with sun salutations.

In December we offer a beautiful, candlelit practice to mark the dark of the year and honor the coming of the light. In June we celebrate the warm days of summer and the natural abundance that is to come.

Ongoing:
HOPPING TREE SANGHA MEDITATION GROUP
Wednesday Mornings 7 – 8:15 am

The Hopping Tree Sangha has been meeting on Wednesday mornings at
Yoga Center Amherst for years! We are so happy to have them!
This is a dedicated group of meditators in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh.
Drop-ins are welcome.

Community gathering with
Patty Townsend & Guests

2nd Friday of Every Month
7:15 - 8:30 pm FREE!

New dates coming soon...

Satsang is a coming together as community to share our understanding, questions, and insights about yoga practice, philosophy, and how yoga applies to our every day life.

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO: South Towne Commons 479 West Street (rte 116) Suite 80
Amherst, MA 01002
(413) 256-5444
SEE info above on other MNY Studio

----------------------------------------------

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Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail Shiatsu massage/vinyasa yoga/yogaofmanifestation

Yogi Sri Dharma Mittra a Blessing of a Being

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 02:41:00 +0000

Sri Dharma Mittra is one of my favorite yoga teachers, is truly a blessing to humanity. He isn't' just a yoga teacher he really is a yogi, meaning this is his whole life, he was a renunciate Sannyasa for some years. In his presence you can actually feel the bliss and love of God, I've studied with him. Once after his class or a workshop, I don't' remember which, I had the thought "it would be so wonderful to be able to play the harmonium," I was sitting there after class ended. The harmonium is like a little piano/accordion that accompanies group chanting of yoga/hindu spiritual "songs." I believe we were just about alone in the large studio space. Dharma Mittra then turns to me and says "it would be nice for you to play the harmonium, you could do it" and I was embarrassed like -oh I'm not musical and he again said softly "you could do it, you could learn." Amazing as I had not verbalized the thought. And I felt a warmth and encouragement flow from this senior yoga master to me.

In watching this remember that he is like 70 years old in this yoga video, if not older! It's sweet, in his Dharmayogacenter yoga studio in NYC a student asked him to demo. There is more of yoga master Dharma Mittra YouTube. He is well know for his large 908 yoga posture chart which he took himself and cut and pasted together (old school pre-computer.) If you get a chance to take yoga class or workshop with him it's worth the visit to NYC, he is also sometimes at Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health here in Massachusetts.

Namaste, Kala

A Zen Christmas Gift

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 19:38:00 +0000

A ZEN CHRISTMAS

If you've been reading my posts lately you can tell I'm shopping online! At least browsing. I came upon this cool Zen type gift, the Buddha Board Inc. (see it below)

It would be a nice Zen holiday gift for the Buddhist or lover of all things Asian, in your life.

I've enjoyed one at the local library in Wendell, Ma (a really cool small town in Western, Mass)
It looks like a little computer screen and you use water to paint on the board, and it's very dark and graphic and then fades back to blank.
It leaves you back again at a blank slate, and a calm mind. It is meditative and no worries about how your art looks, so it encourages spontaneity and being in the present. Like Japanese calligraphy, bold and fresh. The Buddha Board is supposed to last for years with proper care.

The full size original Buddha Board is only $32.
VALUE BUDDHA BOARD: They come in 3 styles the cute "Mini-Buddha" Board which is $9.95 and comes in colors. Order one now to get it in time!

Ok I can't resist putting in a koan:

What is the sound of one hand clapping?

Thank you for shopping via my site (I receive a small percentage)

See two of my posts, first on more holiday gift ideas that would please a yogi or meditator? Or choosing the best yoga mat.

Recommend a good yoga mat?

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 02:17:00 +0000

Question: I'm going to buy a new Yoga mat and I was wondering what type of mat you would recommend?

Answer: My actual yoga mat is very unsexy (it's not superpopular or fancy yoga brand) it's a natural rubber mat by Natural Fitness:

Natural Fitness Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat $43, be careful they have another type, it's lots cheaper called the "Eco-mat" that is ranked much less highly and which I have not tried. The one I like gets 4 out of 5 stars with 24 reviews on Amazon.

I like it because:

it's incredibly non-sticky, slightly rough texture actually feels dry rather than moist or slick
it's a very dense yoga mat, meaning it feels very cushiony but not squishy (like you can't flatten it) The density becomes important because any scuffs or rips don't ruin the other sides usability.
It has two sides of different colors so I'm weird but some days I want the bright colored side to uplift and other days I love the brown darker side. You may not care.
NF Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat is a bit longer than typical mat
Company says it has no lead, phthalates or cadmium

Cons:

it's a heavy yoga mat, it's for home practice mostly. I guess it's not so heavy you wouldn't carry it
It smells like rubber for 1 week, I left it hanging in a utility room to air out

After 2 years of frequent use it pills a little bit where you scuff it, in Ashtanga jump throughs and it's so heavy and lies flat that cats like it for scratching into. But hey maybe that's a plus! Also re: smell most of the cheapo typical mats have an awful smell-a chemical smell that in fact doesn't go away, so the rubber which leaves in short time is much preferable. I know there are other great eco-mats out there I think I settled on the Natural Fitness Professional one because it was a rubber but less than the higher end, eco mats of same material.

MORE YOGA MAT OPTIONS

You can get really cheap yoga mats that are not "green" and have toxic materials and aren't bio-degradable for $12-20's and even cheaper at a Walmart. It really depends on your budget, the overall cost you are willing to pay-enviromental (factory spew, effects on you, and end of mat life issues) any "eco" or "green"mat is gonna cost more. You can always do what the Ashtangi's do, keep using your old mat (for nonslip), and then throw a blanket/rug from India, over it. I find I slip (if you sweat or spritz it with water, then you won't slip in down dog) but it's nice for jump throughs to sitting down and when you are reclining to have that cloth surface under you.

So Barefootyoga.com is a great site for various brands and yoga related items. But of course Amazon's prices are cheaper than a regular company. If you want to support a small company then I recommend:

1. Check out their Original Eco-mat it's jute fiber and natural rubber (with some latex) it's a bit pricey at $72 (it's made in the UK) but it's biodegradable. With no man-made additives. I was at a training program in California and this mat was very popular with the attendees. It stood out because you can see the fibers in it-it's texture.

REVIEWS: "Editors Pick. The jute is soft to the touch and helps the mat last longer, while the natural rubber underside grips every floor type."
– Natural Health Magazine

RATED #1 BY THE NEW YORK TIMES
For Environmentally Friendly Yoga Mats

"The visible fibers on the top side provided a 'slightly rough texture' and 'grippy' surface. The mat was thin enough to fold and had a solid, not too squishy surface for standing without wobbles, but still was padded enough for lying-down work."
- NEW YORK TIMES

2. The Gecko Mat
by David Swenson, this is a new mat on the market....
David Swenson - one of the world’s foremost instructors of Ashtanga Yoga Practice - designed the Gecko Mat for the ultimate comfort, durability and support for your Yoga practice. David’s mat is a balance between the durable mats that provide good support but are too heavy to carry and lighter-weight mats that may not provide enough support and don’t last.

The mat measures 74” long x 26” wide x 5MM thick – so it is slightly longer, wider and thicker for added comfort - but weighs only 5 lbs (30% lighter than comparable mats). The mat is engineered and made in Germany from the strongest, most durable latex-free materials available. You'll love the density and surface of this mat.
Oeko-Tek 100 Certified (zero-waste, emissions free manufacturing) $75.

AMAZON has
3. The Manduka mat is supposed to last a lifetime and is very sturdy. It's good for Ashtanga yoga.

SO SHARE YOUR COMMENTS, what's your favorite mat and why????

Guided Deep Relaxation- get to sleep faster, release stress after a day’s work with this guided deep relaxation! Simply listen as you are skillfully guided by Kala, an experienced yoga teacher, deep inside to a place of peace Learn how to release muscular tension, unwinding your body. Helpful for those who have trouble falling asleep as well as those dealing with symptoms of stress. Subtle flute and piano accompaniment. MP3 format. 23 min. in length. $9. Delivered immediately via download. Via Paypal or use credit card on their secure site.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Meditation Art-Yantras

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:52:00 +0000

Video of Meditation Art Yantras by Kala V Williams
*Music is Chen Rezi track on the Refuge album by Gabrielle Roth & The Mirrors (he's chanting the Tibetan, Om Mani Padme Hum)

Yogi's watch my short YouTube video on meditation yantras. As many of you know who visit this blog-I'm an artist and yoga teacher/practitioner for fifteen years; I've recently been drawn to work with yantras. Yantras are sacred geometry similar in some ways to Tibetan mandalas, they are used as meditation art. They are utilized in a type of yoga (yogic) meditation and for energetically affecting the energies of the space around them.

Do you need more prosperity? Are you lonely? Do you feel stuck career-wise and overall? Each yantra meditation art piece, has a specific power and energy that you can utilize in your life to change conditions. Typically a 40 day meditation practice with the yantra you choose is recommended. All of the info you need is given with a purchase. See Gallerylotus.com my art web site for more background.

Benefits of Yantra Meditation Art

In Wheels of Life writer Anodea Judith list the practice of Yantra Yoga as correlating with the third eye or ajna chakra development. Yantras are part of the Indian Tantric tradition of practices. If you are a yoga practitioner you might find yantra meditation particularly effective. As it works on the subtle energy or prana in the body. Meditation practice with a yantra art piece dissolves samskaras (knots) in the energy body and allow us greater clarity in attracting what we desire into our lives.

To a contemporary Westerner using art to meditate seems a bit odd. Culturally art has been separated and put into isolated spaces away from day to day life. But art has since the beginning of time (think cave paintings) been deeply intertwined with religion and spirituality in cultures from Africa, Asia to Europe. In fact artistic expression was a means of connecting- a conduit to Spirit. That was arts primary purpose in society! Secondarily of course the beauty and emotions it evoked were also key to it's value. We have relegated art primarily to a commodity-like wheat or pork bellies.

Some but not all of the meditation art (at my art site home page) yantras are available as inexpensive prints (see home page sidebar) to find if the one you feel drawn to is custom one of a kind or available as a print.So if you want a wonderful Holiday gift to help a friend or family member or to enhance your own life prospects see GalleryLotus home page for more sacred geometry yantras, their effects and prices, now.
Comments or questions are welcome. Email me or post it here!

Namaste, Kala

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

FOOD SAFETY or FOOD CONTROL?

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 18:15:00 +0000

Read my comments on new food "safety" bill that passed today. The article is Senate Passes Overhaul of Food Safety Regulations at the New York Times. The fear is that the backers of bills like this are really out to kill small, local, and organic or clean farms that serve their community (who want what they provide.) Supposedly there is a separate bill out there that would prohibit anyone from growing their own food and selling or even giving it away. I know that sounds ludicrous, but it's under the guise of food safety too.
The whole egg scandal/scare passed as I bought my eggs locally from Diemand Farms in Wendell, Mass. Your food supplier will be more accountable if the farm is in your region, is small (consumers have more impact) and they have to look you in the eye in the store or school where you run into them.

Check out a related story is you want more gloom re: bees turning bright red!

KNOW WHO GROWS YOUR FOOD! If we lose control of our abiltity to grow or procure healthy real food we are lost. You only have to go to the supermarket and look at the cart of the overweight person next to you. Invariably the cart is filled with soda, white bread and frozen/convenience food. If our politicians really cared really about the health crisis in the US, the increase in lifestyle diseases, we would see "unpopular" steps like higher tax on the food that we know is slowly harming us. This is not a freedom issue, if you choose to eat food that slowly kills you- should pay a premium for the health care that you will utilize in higher quantities. The same goes for exercise. We know statistically that changes in diet and exercise can make a huge difference in the rates of disease such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, let we lack the will as a nation to act.
A small example is that currently in Mass. if one is on foodstamps(so you are poor) you cannot buy green tea! As long as the manufacturer is labeling anything as a "supplement" you cannot use foodstamps to buy it. So herbal teas for sleep or women's health, herbs are forbidden. But you could go and buy a huge bag of electric orange corn puffs several gallons of sugar water (soda) and feed that to your children who may appear overwieght, cranky and have trouble concentrating. Hmmm, perhaps their little bodies are deficient in nutrients!
I grew up in a poor part of NYC in the Bronx, and I know that access to quality food (especially produce) is often an issue as is lack of education around food. As a nation we have to garner the will to make changes-not do what's best for large corporations who control our food supply and therefore us.
What do you think, are you affected by some of these laws, as a farmer or shopper? Share your thoughts.

Namaste, Kala

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

7 Top Yoga, Buddhist Holiday Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 02:35:00 +0000

Need a Yoga or Buddhist Gift Idea
this Christmas or Hanukkah?

These are some sources for a perfect yoga gift for your daughter, wife, hubby or whatever. You know they love yoga, they take classes, they go to workshops, you've seen Yoga Journal magazine laying around. Or they are always meditating, sitting around on that cushion seeking enlightenment; they sit with a Vipassana or Tibetan Buddhist practice group. And you want Buddhist gift ideas. Here are some great yoga gift ideas, some are from FAIR TRADE sources. If you know you need to find the best yoga mat, check here for review of best yoga mat options. And finally a plug for my own

Intellect Yantra @ http://gallerylotus.com/

sacred geometry yantra art (above) which would make a wonderful unique gift for a yogi. The list below I chose a variety of prices points from $20's to $4,000! in the list below. Namaste (the Light within me honors the Light within you) and thank you for shopping via my site (I receive a small percentage) and supporting me in right livelihood.

1. Energy Muse

Spiritual Jewelry for Men & Women- Shop for a gift for your yoga person by "intention" for example to enhance: creativity, wealth, focus etc. Or choose your holiday/Christmas gift for your yogi/ni by her favorite color or price. Chakra specific yoga jewelry for root chakra, heart chakra with variety of stones. Yoga jewelry for men with names like "empowerment," "grounding." According to the site and the photos, celebs like Hillary Duff, David Beckham, and Jamie Foxx among others are wearing their spiritual jewelry. Their jewelery is quite lovely.

Fair Trade Leather Journal $28

2. Carpets, thankas (portable, usually fabric paintings of Buddha or deities) they have hand-painted ones, Buddhist & yoga statues, yoga art, pendants, incense, yoga gifts (above) etc. This family run company is based out of Michigan, US. Also benefits artisans. http://www.dharmashop.com

Closeup of the spikes

3. Give your adventurous yogi a SPIKE aka NAIL MAT, It's fantastic! It's for overall health, insomnia, backache are some things it's said to improve. Also meditators would enjoy this gift, as sitting still for so long in zazen or mindfulness practice can leave the body stiff! Laying down on this- in 10 minutes gets the energy moving again. I teach yoga, and I felt as if I had just finished a great shavasana (deep relaxation) at the end of yoga class. I felt tingly, energized and really relaxed. This NY Times article explains a bit more about how they are hugely popular in Sweden. It's $29.99 but if you enter promotion code "VIVINNE" when shopping on www.stylewellness.com. YOU get an additional 10% off on ALL purchases, not just the nail mat.

4. Ok if you have lots of love and lots of cash give your tired yogi a Zero Gravity Massage Chair. No I don't own it, but I've tried one of this company's zero gravity chairs and it was Divine, it reclined back but not like a mushy recliner...it was like you were floating a friend in NYC had one. I plucked out a few of the benefits that most appealed to me below. And of course you know you are gonna use it too, if you are lucky enough to live with this yogi.

Reclining into a zero-gravity position, with the lower legs above the heart, relaxes and decompresses the spine.

Massage Comfort Number function on the remote control to customize massage intensity.

Acupoint Detection System: To ensure an effective and targeted massage for all body sizes, types and pressure points...scans the entire length of the back creating a map of key pressure points to target during the massage.

Human Touch 7450 Zero Gravity Massage Chair - $ 3999.00 From: Sit4Less.com

8-Point Pulsating Seat Massage System: The precisely designed pulsating seat massage targets the key pressure points of the sciatic nerve along the buttocks and upper hamstrings to promote optimal lower back relief.

Adjustable-Width Foot and Calf Massager: Both the width and intensity of the foot and calf massager can be adjusted and customized.

Dual-Lumbar Back Heat: Two lumbar heat modules gently warm the lower back muscles, gradually reducing tightness and pain.

5. Gorgeous and Green. They have accessories, bags, home decor, jewelry, kitchen, mom & green kids items, pets, stationery, eco-water bottles, yogi friendly gifts under $50. All green/eco-friendly gifts that would appeal to a conscious Buddhist or yoga practitioner, and fit their yoga eco-lifestyle.

6. Wai Lana Yoga Maybe you've seen her on TV. Inspiring. Uplifting. Energizing. products include colorful yoga mats, yoga straps, yoga blocks, suppliments, dvds on meditation and for items for children.

7. Exotic Indian Art is the site. They have authentic Indian sculpture, Buddhist statues, art, Indian paintings, Indian jewelry. But I most like their Indian textiles-bedspreads, wall hangings and handbags which are so beautiful and ornate (images below are links.) The textiles would look great in a first apartment or dorm room. A lot of yoga practitioners and teachers are drawn to the beauty of Indian items as it's the home of yoga practice. So whether they practice Anusara, or Iyengar or Kripalu yoga, if they like world/"ethnic" type items, and lovely patterns and colors this is the site to check out! 8. Choosing a Meditation Cushion: So if all else fails go to AMAZON! Here are some links to gifts that a meditation practitioner or yogi might love! Choosing a meditation cushion for a Buddhist or any style of meditator can be tricky, I actually would recommend a gift certificate. As some like a firm cushion with cotton, some (myself included) like kapok or seed hulls which shifts a bit more and shapes to your butt. And so it's very personal and hard, if they are a newbie then perhaps get them a cushion. But if they have a meditation cushion sneak and find out what type it is (if it needs replacing!) If they already have a cushion then a good gift could be a zabuton, the big square cushion that goes under the round one that you actually sit on, it protects against the hard floor and ones ankles and knees are protected. A zabuton would make a great gift for a meditator or Buddhist.

Discount on Spike Mats for Yoga Pioneer Readers

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 05:05:00 +0000

11/22 UPDATE ON SPIKE MAT :

Hey Yogi/ni's Enter promotion code "VIVINNE" when shopping on www.stylewellness.com.

This code will give YOU an additional 10% on ALL purchases. Try the spike mat, it's fantastic, if you do yoga-I teach yoga, and I felt as if I had just finished a great shavasana at the end of yoga class. I felt tingly, energized and really relaxed. This NY Times article explains a bit more about how they are hugely popular in Sweden, see article excerpt:

"The origins of Sweden’s nail mat fad are murky, but what is clear is that it began in the yoga community and later moved into the general population. One of those credited with popularizing the mat is Susanna Lindelöw, 46, who bought a mail order nail mat made in Russia in a desperate attempt to cure severe lower back pain. “I had tried a lot of things: massage, I went to doctors,” Ms. Lindelöw said in a telephone interview. The one she bought, she said, “had small-sized spikes, very many of them.”

Or see my review of spike mat, after trying a complimentary one. I liked it so much I've decided to sell them I think they are that helpful!

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Review: Acupuncture Yoga Spike Mat? Huh?

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 19:17:00 +0000

UPDATE 11/29:

Hey Yogi/ni's Enter promotion code "VIVINNE" when shopping on www.stylewellness.com.

This code will give YOU an additional 10% on ALL purchases.Have you seen or heard of the acupuncture yoga mats (Acumat at Stylewellness.com, in this case) you lay on-- that are supposed to be amazing for you and relieve issues like insomnia? Here is, New York Times on the nail mats and how they are a rage in Europe, especially Sweden! This is what happened, I was online and got offered by luck-a sample one free if I would review it on my blog. It sells for $29.99 on sale.
Frankly I had hardly heard of these things. I remembered an ad in Yoga Journal that I didn't really get?! It showed an Indian holy man in like a loin cloth-holding up this modern looking mat with spiky floret's on it. I didn't get it! Then as I awaited my sample in the mail my friend Ken asked me if I had heard of spiky acupuncture mats? Weird I thought. He's a chronic insomniac and a co-worker swore that her spiky mat worked amazingly to help her sleep, so he wanted to try one.
Annnnyyyyy wayyyy. I got it and tore it open and it looks like this, it's like 1/2 length of yoga mat, with thin foam inside the covering:

Acupressure yoga mat

Acupuncture mat-the spikes are sharp

I had heard that it's painful at first and one needs to get used to it, so I dropped a blanket over the little sucker and lay down. I FELT NOTHING. Ok, I put a thin sheet doubled up. HMMM. The plastic spikes are really sharp so I think you need something between your skin and it.
Ahhhh. Within minutes I was feeling like I do in shavasana, the yoga relaxation pose done at the end of class. Really relaxed. And you feel warmth and a subtle energy flow. Wow. It was not painful for me at all, I stayed there for 20 min daydreaming!
So I love this thing! And have started telling friends. One guy came over, I warned him it may be painful-he felt nothing so he tried it on bare skin (which I discouraged) then just t-shirt and he blissed out! I gave him an eye pillow and left him for a while.
They are fabulous, I have started moving mine from room to room for example when I'm at my computer (often at my kitchen table,) I put it under my feet.
Check the site for "official" warnings on use. My concerns would be those on blood thinners, any skin condition/sores or any serious medical condition, also anyone who may fall or have trouble lowering themselves onto it*. If you decide to buy an acupuncture mat go to www.stylewellness.com takes you to the exact page; enter promotion code "VIVINNE" when shopping. this code will give you an additional 10% on ALL purchases.. (Thanks for helping to support this blog) It's one of those weird things-it's like why does this work? But I"m convinced that if you try it, it sells itself. Something to do with endorphins I guess!
Namaste, Kala
*Disclaimer: consult a physician first, if you have any questions or concerns. This is personal opinion on a product I have actually used myself but is not meant as advice on treatment of any medical condition.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Chakra Meditation

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 02:16:00 +0000

Chakra Meditation is it for Beginners?

This post was first written for my other blog embark-lovethelifeyoulive.com/ it's focus is The Yoga of Manifestation! Practical spiritual tools to overcome difficult life transitions and love the life you live! You can find a whole series on Types of Meditation there.

If you have practiced any yoga or read "new agey" kind of books, then you have heard of chakras, no doubt. Chakra meditation is one type of meditation technique. This is an overview for beginners to chakra meditation and it continues on the series of posts on various types of meditation.

Chakras are energetic centers in the subtle body, which is housed in our physical bodies. The translation of the word "chakra" is wheel, circle or better vortex or whirlpool according to Swami Satyananda Saraswati's book Asana, Pranayama Mudra and Bandha. Swami Saraswati's book is highly recommended if you are already practicing yoga and want to know more, it's pretty encyclopedic but understandable.

Chakra Balancing

Chakra Meditation: Discover Energy, Creativity, Focus, Love, Communication, Wisdom, and Spirit

About Chakras

Usually there are said to be seven major chakras, they line up along the spine. From top of head to bottom at coccyx they are

Sahasrara (Crown) Chakra
Ajna (Third Eye) Chakra
Vishudda (Throat) Chakra
Anahata (Heart) Chakra
Manipura (Navel) Chakra
Swadishtana (Sex) Chakra
Muladhara (Root) Chakra

Anodea Judith, Ph.D. calls chakras are "organizing centers for the reception, assimilation and transmission of life energies." Her book Wheels of Life: A User's Guide to the Chakra..., is also highly recommended, it is written for a Western audience and is thorough, giving exercises, psychological, spiritual and physical implications of chakra work.


Moon Yantra

See my art site for more about yantras.

Music inspired by chakras

Chakra Suite

Tibetan Chakra Meditations

Caroline Myss: Chakra Meditation Music

Chakra Books

Chakra Meditation (respected authority on chakras)

Chakra Meditation Kit: Bring Balance to Your Mind, Body and Spirit (Book, Cards, and CD)Chakra Theory and Meditation with Paul Grilley (Respected Yin Yoga teacher)

Chakras for Beginners: A Guide to Balancing Your Chakra Energies

Shirley Maclaine's Inner Workout [VHS]

Free sites with excellent chakra info:

There are so many correlations so here are some links to free sites with more info so I'm not repeating what's out there: Chakras at Wikipedia, which is quite clear and extensive. Also see link chakra at SanatanaSociety.com if you prefer a more colorful and culturally specific info. The latter also sell beautiful posters as do many sites on chakras.

Chakra Meditation Technique:

I would not recommend chakra meditation as the first meditation technique for beginners for a couple of reasons:

it requires strong concentration
and subtle sensitivity

So it's helpful to first get practiced in hatha yoga (the physical postures) and some type of more general meditation such as mindfulness or breath awareness meditation first. Having said that. Chakra meditation might be enjoyable and rewarding for you if:

You are a "visual" person, attracted to and able to see shapes/colors easily
Are sensitive to subtle energy or sensations
Have are regular practice of yoga and are attracted to deeper study

So basically one would have an image of the chakras available and in seated posture being to visualize the colors and shapes of each chakra. At minimum (and this works) is while sensing in the area of the spine and body, to tune into the color that correlates, and repeat the chakra sound. So that combines-feeling, seeing and sound to occupy the mind and begin to tune into, activate and heal the chakra! So check out the Amazon links to buy a book, check your library or see the Free Sites area where I give two great sites to get that info.

Benefits of Chakra Meditation :

This is according to Swami S. Saraswati, Hiroshi Motoyama, and Anodea Judith, Ph.D.

Better function on physical level of glands, nerves that are governed by respective chakra
access higher planes of consciousness by stimulating specific areas of the brain

Namaste, and share your questions or comments. I would love to hear them! And share this post.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Cool Yoga Guy Video-Asana on NYC, India Streets!

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sun, 14 Nov 2010 02:56:00 +0000

His asana practice is beautiful! Phillip Askwe is his name. Check out video. My only fear is that we Westerners are perhaps (not him as a practitioner) giving the impression to non-yogi's that yoga is just about feats of strength and flexibility. Because that's how we see it presented. That would be like finding a shell with a pearl inside and throwing away the pearl and keeping the pretty shell only. Anyway, what do you think on that? Leave a comment below!
Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha/2008 Fourth Revised Edition
Asanas: 608 Yoga Poses

Yogabody: Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Asana
Language of Yoga: Complete A to Y Guide to Asana Names Sanskrit Terms and Chants
Music: Asana 2: Moving Meditation

Buy my Guided Deep Relaxation- get to sleep faster, release stress after a day’s work with this guided deep relaxation! Simply listen as you are skillfully guided by Kala, an experienced yoga teacher, deep inside to a place of peace Learn how to release muscular tension, unwinding your body. Helpful for those who have trouble falling asleep as well as those dealing with symptoms of stress. Subtle flute and piano accompaniment. MP3 format. 23 min. in length. $9. Delivered immediately via download. Via Paypal or use credit card on their secure site.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Healthy Drinks for Pre or Post Yoga Practice

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 01:37:00 +0000

Check out my friend Bridget Krutzik in this video she makes an amazing rich but healthy shake.
Fresh and Alive! Raw Vegetarian Recipes With Ken Rohla 2-DVD Set w/ Booklet and Chart

The New Vegan Cookbook: Innovative Vegetarian Recipes Free of Dairy, Eggs, and Cholesterol

Her site is Healing Illuminations. She integrates a variety of services as needed: Nutritional Wisdom, Angelic Reiki, and Aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy: An A-Z: The Most Comprehensive Guide to Aromatherapy Ever Published
AURA CACIA, Aromatherapy Room Diffuser - 1 unit
Aromatherapy for Health Professionals (Price, Aromatherapy for Health Professionals)

She does a a lot of her services via distance check her out for distance space clearing of your home or business. Her she makes a delicious breakfast drink on local Channel 22 news show, here in Western, MA. Her blog for great healthy recipes and her is link to a lighter drink to make before your morning practice: Recipe: Rooibos, Goji Berry, and Vanilla Tea: A Favorite Blend

Healthy Morning Latte

• 2 cups warm/hot water
• 4 tbs raw chocolate powder
• 1 tbs extra virgin coconut oil
• 1/2 cup truly raw cashews
• 3 tbs unprocessed honey
1/2 tsp raw vanilla bean powder
1 tsp organic cinnamon
1 pinch of sea salt

Add ingredients to a regular blender and blend for a minute and a half. You can soak the cashews overnight to make them softer and make the blending easier. Garnish with whipped cream.

If you have some great recipes, especially for a homemade chai, share it with YP readers. Namaste. Kala.
Vegan on the Cheap: Great Recipes and Simple Strategies that Save You Time and Money
Vegan Fire & Spice: 200 Sultry and Savory Global Recipes

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Gorgeous Yoga Photos by Tom Rosenthal

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 23:27:00 +0000

Just wanted to let YP readers know about this photographer Tom Rosenthal his images of yogi's in India are just gorgeous! He went to Mysore India and began studying Ashtanga Yoga with Sri K Pattabhi Jois; he was aready a photographer but India seems to have really fed his artistic spirit. To purchase any of Tom Rosenthal's photos contact him at prints (at) lightonashtangayoga(dot)com. He also is authorized to teach and does in the Berkshires at http://www.berkshireashtanga.com


Yogini in Arm Balance

Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga: The Practice, First Series by David Swenson


Yogi In Arm Balance

Ashtanga Yoga: Practice and Philosophy
Ashtanga, NY - A Yoga Documentary Ashtanga Yoga - The Intermediate Series: Mythology, Anatomy, and Practice (Ashtanga Yoga Intermediate Series)Ashtanga Yoga - Beginners Practice


Yogi on Elephant

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

About Ashtanga in Florence, Mass Pt. 2

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 03:49:00 +0000

This is part two of my interview with Michelle Ryan. She is the director/owner of Florence Yoga - www.florenceyoga.com - in Florence, MA, offering led classes and Mysore style classes in the Ashtanga tradition. She has been a yoga practitioner for almost two decades, and a practitioner of Ashtanga Yoga for over 13 years.

Read Part 1 of Ashtanga interview.

K: Yeah Ashtanga can be a difficult form especially in the beginning. I began by working with David Swenson video’s myself. The first time I just watched the video in awe! He’s a wonderful teacher, but I recommend folks study with a teacher in person, that is so much better. I was already a teacher and hurt my shoulders doing the chaturanga (pushup like move,) incorrectly. Taking a training with David Swenson helped a lot to improve my practice and teaching.

M: Perseverance and a positive outlook helped me get through those times when postures just seemed impossible. I found that if I focused first on the ujjayi breath and let go of the need to compete with myself (or with anyone for that matter), then everything else would fall into place. The breath is truly key to the Ashtanga practice - it keeps you safe from injury, guides you throughout practice, and makes the body happy. And if the body feels good, the mind and spirit follow. The body should feel good throughout all of practice: don’t fight with it, force it or punish it. Try to make your practice that part of the day when the body is doing something it wants to do, not something it’s required to do.

K: Again I recommend that folks especially in the area of Pioneer Valley/Noho & Florence check out your studio to be guided safely. And I love ujjayi breath, it’s soothing to the mind and builds heat nicely. Do you have to practice every day?

M: Ashtanga yoga is meant to be done six days a week for the greatest benefit. This doesn’t always mean a 90 minute class, where you might challenge yourself to the point of exhaustion. Even 15 minutes a day of sun salutations, done mindfully and integrated with breath, bandhas and drishti, can be enough to see positive changes begin to occur.

K: Oh my gosh thanks so much for confirming what I’ve felt too. It’s so much better to do something. Twenty minutes of practice can be all some folks need or have time for, and is so much better than skipping. Or worse yet skipping and beating oneself up about it. That’s not what yoga is about- self-judgment. I mean of course one commits to a sadhana, but with flexibility, patience and long-term commitment is ideal.

M: So, do a little bit every day, as much as you can. You’ll never regret rolling out your mat. And, over time, you will see your mind, body and spirit awaken, lighten up and become happier, healthier, stronger.

K: Thanks so much for your time Michelle, it’s been a pleasure and I know you have workshops coming up, so I’ll make sure to post those here. Namaste.

Namaste, Kalavati

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

NOVEMBER: YOGA GREENFIELD, SHELBURNE FALLS & ENVIRONS

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 01:00:00 +0000

SHELBURNE FALLS

HART YOGA
1 Ashfield Street, Suite 8 Shelburne Falls, MA 01370

Turn Your World Upside Down!
 A Workshop with Bronwyn Sims Friday, December 10, 2010 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Join yoga teacher, acrobat, and aerialist Bronwyn Sims as you  Turn Your World Upside Down! Experience the benefits of safe, healthy inversions.
$30

Bronwyn will lead you through creative and fun exercises to help build upper body strength, flexibility, shoulder health and self confidence. You'll also condition the core abdominal muscles. Then we'll get down to business!
Whether you are a beginner who wants to work on your first handstand at the wall or a more experienced practitioner aiming to move away from the wall, this is the workshop for you! Don't miss this opportunity to work with Bronwyn in a small group setting.
Turn Your World Upside Down! is open to all levels.

Exploring the Inner Landscape through Yoga, Chanting and Meditation: An Afternoon of Contemplative Practice Second Sunday of the Month, 3-6 PM
September 12, October 10*, November 14, December 12, 2010
*Exploring the Inner Landscape on October 10 will be held at Green River Yoga, 158 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Greenfield, MA.
Join Lindel Hart and Rick Roberts for an afternoon of physical, spiritual and mental rejuvenation as
we enter into the stillness that promotes self exploration through yoga postures, chanting and
meditation. Come together in community with others for this mindful retreat from an overactive
world to reconnect with your natural state of balance, harmony and peace. The afternoon will
include an asana practice guided by Lindel Hart and chanting with Rick Roberts and friends, as well
as time for silent meditation together. There will be no specific instruction. This event is FREE.
However, donations are appreciated. For more information, contact Lindel Hart or Rick Roberts: lindel@hartyoga.com - 413.768.9291 rick@pioneervalleyyoga.com - 413.367.9777 Greenfield, MA.

SHELBURNE FALLS YOGA
#1 Deerfield Avenue, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370 413-297-1898
penfieldchester@gmail.com

Women's Peace Collection & Yoga November 19th

Purchase A Meaningful Gift

This Holiday Season-
and Empower A Woman in the world!
We are pleased to host a very special
Women's Gifting Circle Event
November 19th
after a relaxed session of yoga at the studio.
Yoga- 6-7pm- ( donation only )
Peace Collection Sale
and light food and drinks 7-9pm

Amber Chand, Founder of the Women's Peace Collection will be joining us - and introducing us to her Collection of lovely gifts created by talented women around the world. Silk scarves and bracelets from Afghanistan, luminary peace candles from Israel and Palestinw, woven baskets from Rwanda and Darfur - these are just some of the gifts you will discover!
It promises to be an inspirational evening with Amber sharing some of her stories of women's resilience and beauty around the world.

10% of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Shelburne Falls Yoga to start a scholarship fund
womenspeacecollection.com

GREENFIELD

GREEN RIVER YOGA

GREENFIELD ZEN We meet every Monday 7:00-8:30 pm but skip Monday holidays. All are welcome to join us as we practice sitting and walking Zen meditation. Both group and individual instruction are offered, and beginners are invited to come at 7:00 pm for initial instruction. Suggested donations of $5 to cover expenses are appreciated but not required. Please bring your own sitting cushion if you have one. (We have several cushions and chairs to share.) Contact: Jeanie, 413-773-9744 or je88@comcast.net

Lifting the Veils: Evenings with Michael Walsh   Sundays 7:00 - 8:30 pm (Nov 14 & 28, Dec 12 & 26)           $10-15 donation appreciated but not required
Michael is an awake person who has recently come to the area from California, where he lived as a hermit for some years. He embodies no particular tradition, but simply speaks the truth. Jan Frazier encountered him in 2008 and, having been deeply affected by his heart and wisdom, she encouraged him to come to the East and offer his teachings to others.
Satsang is traditional "sharing of truth" towards personal awakening. During these twice monthly gatherings, Michael eagerly shares his truth to lead you towards precisely what might lift the veils between your experience and your own true inner silent being.
Events are both serious and fun, but they never lose sight not only of the deepest yearning open souls feel, but also how close to living truth we are.
For more information, contact Michael (802-275-2151 or mwalsh7782@yahoo.com). For details about Michael, his new book, or CDs, visit MichaelWalsh2010.com. To read what Jan Frazier has to say about Michael, visit her blog http://www.janfrazierteachings.com/blog/?p=1882.

Birth Circle with Jessie Groneman    Third Fridays 6:30 - 8 pm (Nov 19, Dec 17, etc.)      Open to all ($5-20 donation appreciated but not required)
Share your journey to motherhood in this circle of celebration and support.
This birth circle is a space for pregnant mamas to come together and share their stories of pregnancy with other women who are going through it too.
Every birth circle is different, but lots of juicy conversation is always on the menu! Join us!
For more information or to pre-register, contact Jessie (617-529-7621 or greenwoman19@yahoo.com).

Sacred Circle Dance with Linda Blake

First Fridays 7:00 - 9:00 pm (Oct 1, Nov 5, Dec 3, etc.)
         Open to all ($5-10 donation appreciated but not required)

Dance for joy, dance for fun, dance for peace,
Dance to create community,
Dance to remember our oneness with the Universe,
With all people of this planet, with each other and within ourselves.

This is what Sacred Circle Dance is and more… Circle Dance includes traditional folk dances, dances from all spiritual traditions, dances to celebrate the seasons of the year and seasons of our lives. Circle Dances may be playful, meditative, lively or sweetly flowing. The dances are simple and all dances are taught. No partners are needed.

For more information or to pre-register, contact Linda Blake (516-766-0008 or lindab333@gmail.com).

SafeArt Movement with Tracy Penfield  Thursday Dec 16, 3:30 - 5:00 pm FREE and open to all women
Explore your Inner Dance! If you are a woman who has experienced traumatic abuse of any type, at any time, this workshop is for you.
Each of us has a unique movement vocabulary informed by our life experiences and our personal spirit. In this special workshop with SafeArt Founder and Director Tracy Penfield, you will be guided and supported to move as much or as little as YOU wish to discover and experience the transformative healing powers of your inner dancer.
No movement experience is necessary to reap the benefits of SafeArt Movement. Women of all ages welcome.
For more information or to pre-register, contact Tracy (802-685-3138 or tpenfield@safeart.org) or visit www.SafeArt.org.

Improvising Music from the Inside with Rosie Fanale
    Friday Nov 19, 7 - 9 pm    $10 suggested donation
We all have a musical core inside of us, whether or not we have chosen to become musical performers of any kind. Music For People, a worldwide program founded by renowned Grammy winning cellist David Darling, has as its main intention to help anyone learn how to access the deepest music that lies within their core.
Drop in for a fun-filled exploration of musical improvisation techniques based on the Music for People program. We will use traditional musical instruments as well as "found" instruments from home (glasses, pots and pans, and anything else you might think of -- including and most of all your wonderful voice and your percussive body).
Everyone is welcome, from those who have been told at one time that they were tone deaf to those who have become professional musicians.
This unique, fun, centering, sound extravaganza is offered by Rosie Fanale, a graduate and 13 year participant of the Music For People programs. For more information, contact her at 413-652-2519 or rfanale08@gmail.com).
Search Amazon.com for Cello Blue
Prayer For Compassion

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

NOVEMBER: YOGA NORTHAMPTON,FLORENCE, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 21:42:00 +0000

Hi Yogi's, please peruse but go to site CLICK ON STUDIO NAME of your chosen studio for final info and to register for your hearts delight. YP is labor of love and takes no responsibility for cancellations, typos or errors. Namaste Baby.

NORTHAMPTON/FLORENCE

Ashtanga Yoga: Primary Series with Kino MacGregor

Ashtanga Yoga: The Primary Series

Ashtanga Yoga: Practice and Philosophy

FLORENCE YOGA -

(ASHTANTGA YOGA)

140 Pine Street ~ Suite 12
Florence, MA 01062
413-250-9399 info@florenceyoga.com

Karen Rafferty returns to Florence Yoga!

Restorative Yoga Sutras - Friday November 12th 6-8 pm

& Ashtanga Primary Series: An All Levels Exploration - Saturday November 13th 8-11 am

Restorative Yoga Sutras  Friday November 12th 6-8pm 
Unwind the body as you engage and turn the mind toward the teachings of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. For many of us, the path of Yoga starts with Asanas, or postures. While written thousands of years ago, The Yoga Sutra’s use concise verses to convey messages that are effective even for today’s Yogi. Uncover what Yoga is beyond the mat: the guidebook to help us delve into the obstacles on the path of Yoga and how we use our practice to remain peaceful. Cost - $30

Primary Series: An all levels exploration
& discussion  Saturday November 13th 8-11am 
Ashtanga Yoga’s unique set of flowing postures, combined with Ujjayi breath, dristi and bhandas can be accessable to all. This 3-hour class will break down the Primary Series postures, with explanation of breath movement, where the energy should be directed, and how to modify the postures for your body. We will have time after practice for questions and answers. Cost - $50

For more info on Karen and to register click studio name above.

KARUNA CENTER for YOGA & HEALING ARTS

25 Main Street, Third Floor • Northampton, MA 01060
413.584.5054 • info@karunayoga.com

“Untie the Knots That Bind You” A Yoga Ropes Workshop with Eileen Muir

Sun. Nov. 7^th 1-4 pm

Using the system of wall ropes allows the body to create dynamic heat, opening beyond what one might be able to achieve alone. We will go through a series of strengthening, opening, and cool down postures leaving the body and mind thoroughly open, warm, and peaceful. All levels welcome.

$40 in Advance

Yoga Nidra Workshop

Sun. Dec. 12th 1-3 pm
Nidra is a Sanskrit word which means wakeful sleep. It is an ancient and rarely practiced technique, which systematically induces complete mental, physical, and emotional relaxation. We lie on our backs and move our awareness to different parts of the body through guided imagery. Through this process the subtle energy channels are completely revitalized. The workshop will involve a yoga sequence followed by the guided meditation. All are welcome.
Some of the many benefits of Yoga Nidra are relief of:

Fatigue
Poor concentration
Compromised Immunity
Poor Sleep
General Stress
Depression

$30 in Advance

Yoga Nidra Meditation CD: Extreme Relaxation of Conscious Deep Sleep

Longer Yoga Nidra

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Sat. Dec. 18^th 2-6pm Sun. Dec. 19^th 9-1pm
$80 for entire workshop

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is the classical ancient Indian treatise on the practice of Yoga. While Yoga conjures up images of bodily postures and stretches in popular western culture, this aspect of yoga, the asanas, is only the third limb of the eight limbs outlined in the Yoga Sutras — and, indeed, Patanjali pays only passing attention to this aspect of the system. This seminar series will consist of a close reading of Patanjali’s original text, focusing on the opening section of the work, wherein Yoga is defined and the state of samadhi, liberation, described, as well as on the eight limbs of yoga covered in the heart of the text, which outline the step by step methods for attaining this enlightened state.

YOGA SANCTUARY

150 Main St. Suite 12
Northampton 01060
(413-585-9642)

Wah! Workshop

Sunday, November 7, 2010

5 - 7pm

Join us for a yoga class with Wah!, world-renowned recording

artist and yoga teacher. Her yoga teachings focus on energetic

clearing, breathing and alignment, using elements of Bihar, Kundalini and Anusara yoga. Wah! will provide live savasana music, as well as 30 minutes of informal chanting following the asana practice.....

Fee: $20 by 11/3/10 $25 at the door

Douglas Brooks Philosophy Workshop:

The Great Ten Goddesses: A Seminar of Teaching and Practice in Shakta Tantra

November 19 - 21, 2010

One of the most ancient and beautiful traditions of the Tantra describes the Ten Great Goddesses known as the Dashamahavidya. These goddesses in myth, image, concept, and meaning are gateways to our every form of experience and offer a systematic expression of the highest teachings of yoga in the tradition of Rajanaka Tantra. We will explore how the goddesses appear in our experience as our deepest desires, hopes, achievements, and understandings.

Friday Nov 19: 6-8pm

Saturday Nov 20: 11am - 1pm; 2:30 - 5:30pm

Sunday Nov 21: 11am - 1pm

Fees:

Full Workshop: $175 ($150 early price by 11/5/10)

Partial registration: 2 hr lecture $40; 3 hr lecture $60 10% off 2 or more sessions

Asana Classes: Saturday & Sunday 9:00 - 10:30 am, $15 each

BIKRAM YOGA NORTHAMPTON
241 King Street . Suite 118 . Northampton MA 01060 . 413.586.0014.

AS OF 11/3/10 NO SPECIAL EVENTS LISTED. For ongoing classes click studio name.

SHIVA SHAKTI POWER VINYASA YOGA

Shiva Shakti Power Vinyasa Yoga
17 Strong Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
413-585-1099, or email info@northamptonyoga.net.
AS of 11/3/10 no workshops or special events listed. For ongoing classes click studio name.

EASTHAMPTON

MAMA NIRVANA'S NEW YOGA
384 Main St. (rte 10)
Easthampton, MA 01027(see Amherst studio below)

(413) 527-7705

FallYoga Special: 24 classes for $240!

Use until February 28, 2011. Family and friends can share (age 14 and up.) Good for use at EITHER of our studios.

Note: This is a NO EXTENSIONS card. The expiration date cannot be changed.
BRING YOUR PAYPAL RECEIPT to the studio to redeem for your 24 class card.

Register online via PayPal for this workshop:
Special Class Card: $ 240
Use until Febraury 28, 2011

Also offering ongoing:

Hypnotherapy Sessions- Call 413-561-6696 or email to get a free 20 min. session. Sounds interesting. mailto:info@mamanirvana.com

Soul Guidance Sessions- "Soul guidance is spiritually-based coaching." 90 min. or more $85.

AMHERST

YOGA CENTER AMHERST 17 kellogg ave | amherst, ma 01002 | 413.256.0604

As of 11/3 no workshops for October listed. Ongoing classes click on studio name.

MAMA NIRVANA YOGA- AMHERST STUDIO:

South Towne Commons 479 West Street (rte 116) Suite 80

Amherst, MA 01002

(413) 256-5444

SEE info above on other MNY Studio

----------------------------------------------

Kala's (Your Blogmistress') audio product:

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. Ovid Kalavati (Viv Williams) send e-mail Shiatsu massage/yoga/transition mentoring

About Ashtanga Yoga: in Florence/Northampton, MA

noreply@blogger.com (Kalavati) — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:57:00 +0000

Thanks for joining me for part 1 of an interview with Michelle Ryan, about Ashtanga yoga. She is the director/owner of Florence Yoga - www.florenceyoga.com - in Florence, MA, offering led classes and Mysore style* classes in the Ashtanga tradition. She has been a yoga practitioner for almost two decades, and a practitioner of Ashtanga Yoga for over 13 years.

Yoga Teacher Michelle Ryan

Kalavati @Yoga Pioneer: In simple form what is Ashtanga yoga?

Michelle: Ashtanga is the original “vinyasa yoga”, from which the modern Western forms of Power, Vinyasa, Hot, and/or Flow yoga styles arose. It’s a challenging practice, that inspires exhilaration, despair, bliss, self-judgement, fear, and euphoria - sometimes simultaneously!

K: Before you tell us more about Ashtanga, how did you get into the practice?

M: I was a young mother of three when I found Ashtanga 13 years ago, and I loved it immediately as it opened me up physically, spiritually and mentally. I noticed at first only that my body was responding - I was stronger, healthier, slept better and had more energy for my family. Gradually, I began to realize that I was happier, and more conscious. While having children rids you of the self-absorption of youth, doing Ashtanga rids you of the self-absorption of adulthood - the practice cultivates compassion and a lighter approach to daily life.

K: So it’s been really helpful for you off the mat, it sounds like. That’s great-I think newer yogi’s tend to think of only physical benefits and may not be aware of the immense power of yoga practice! Ok, so tell us more about what makes Ashtanga yoga unique?

M: Not only do you need to work on the asanas in Ashtanga, you’re also encouraged to focus on three key elements of practice - bandhas (internal energy locks, inherent in every asana) drishti (gaze) and most importantly, ujjayi (victorious) breath. Plus, every movement in Ashtanga is accompanied by a specific inhale or exhale of ujjayi breath. Besides balancing these elements, the Ashtanga practice, when practiced Mysore (or self-led) style, encourages the student to memorize the sequence of postures over time, with the generous help and guidance of their teacher. While memorization of the postures may seem daunting, it’s quite empowering and truly enhances your practice. This is how Ashtanga is taught in Mysore, India, the birthplace of Ashtanga. Although the physical and mental challenges can be difficult at first, they do create a very deep and authentic form of practice, and help the student develop the ability to create a home practice, too...

part 2 tomorrow! Namaste. Kalavati

Resources:

Guided Deep Relaxation- get to sleep faster, release stress after a day’s work with this guided deep relaxation! Simply listen as you are skillfully guided by Kala, an experienced yoga teacher, deep inside to a place of peace Learn how to release muscular tension, unwinding your body. Helpful for those who have trouble falling asleep as well as those dealing with symptoms of stress. Subtle flute and piano accompaniment. MP3 format. 23 min. in length. $9. Delivered immediately via download. Via Paypal or use credit card on their secure site.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it.

Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.

Begin it now - Goethe.

Intuitive Consultations/Yoga of Manifestation/Shiatsu Listen to My Podcast @ ITunes!

Yoga pioneer/berkshires/brattleboro too!

Setting Up Your First Website for Yoga Teachers, Massage The

Go Hear Unique Western Vocal & Musics of Tibet, Mongolia, and India

Amy Ippoliti on Why Do/Teach Yoga

Surviving And Thriving Despite Unemployment/Housing Loss and other Bad Bad Things!

A Healthy Pre-Yoga Energy Drink

Planetary Changes A Spiritual Perspective Part 3

Why We Shouldn't Destroy the Planet-Planetary Changes Pt. 2

Nutty Amaranth Snack

YOGA Workshops NORTHAMPTON, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

1-3 pm $20 each workshop

Second Series is challenging, invigorating, enlightening and fun. It is the next step for Ashtanga practitioners who want to deepen their yoga practice. Second Series, or Nadi Shodana, nerve purification...

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali with Edwin Bryant

Anatomy & Therapeutics Workshop with Martin Kirk

Master Anusara Anatomical Principles and learn how to apply them to the body therapeutically!

Friday,

January 21 - 23, 2011

Holiday Yoga Special: 24 classes for $240!

Also offering ongoing:

Hypnotherapy Sessions

HIGH DEMAND IS EXPECTED IN JANUARY. MY CLIENT LIST IS ALMOST FULL ALREADY. CALL OR EMAIL NOW AND PRE-RESERVE FOR JANUARY OR BOOK YOUR FIRST SESSION IN DECEMBER--AVOID THE WAIT LIST.

Holiday Schedule: Dec 24: 9 am & 2 pm Dec 25: Closed Dec 31: 9 am, 4 pm & 10:30 pm

Ring in the new year at Bikram Yoga Noho!

Jan 1: 9 am & 4 pm

Yogi Sri Dharma Mittra a Blessing of a Being

A Zen Christmas Gift

Recommend a good yoga mat?

Natural Fitness Professional Natural Rubber Yoga Mat $43, be careful they have another type, it's lots cheaper called the "Eco-mat" that is ranked much less highly and which I have not tried. The one I like gets 4 out of 5 stars with 24 reviews on Amazon.

I like it because:

Cons:

MORE YOGA MAT OPTIONS

Meditation Art-Yantras

FOOD SAFETY or FOOD CONTROL?

7 Top Yoga, Buddhist Holiday Gifts

Discount on Spike Mats for Yoga Pioneer Readers

Review: Acupuncture Yoga Spike Mat? Huh?

Chakra Meditation

Chakra Meditation is it for Beginners?

This post was first written for my other blog embark-lovethelifeyoulive.com/ it's focus is The Yoga of Manifestation! Practical spiritual tools to overcome difficult life transitions and love the life you live! You can find a whole series on Types of Meditation there.

About Chakras

See my art site for more about yantras.

Music inspired by chakras

Chakra Books

Free sites with excellent chakra info:

Chakra Meditation Technique:

Benefits of Chakra Meditation :

Cool Yoga Guy Video-Asana on NYC, India Streets!

Healthy Drinks for Pre or Post Yoga Practice

Gorgeous Yoga Photos by Tom Rosenthal

About Ashtanga in Florence, Mass Pt. 2

NOVEMBER: YOGA GREENFIELD, SHELBURNE FALLS & ENVIRONS

Women's Peace Collection & Yoga November 19th

NOVEMBER: YOGA NORTHAMPTON,FLORENCE, AMHERST, EASTHAMPTON

& Ashtanga Primary Series: An All Levels Exploration - Saturday November 13th 8-11 am

“Untie the Knots That Bind You” A Yoga Ropes Workshop with Eileen Muir

Yoga Nidra Workshop

Yoga Nidra Meditation CD: Extreme Relaxation of Conscious Deep Sleep

Longer Yoga Nidra

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

Wah! Workshop

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Douglas Brooks Philosophy Workshop:

The Great Ten Goddesses: A Seminar of Teaching and Practice in Shakta Tantra

Use until February 28, 2011. Family and friends can share (age 14 and up.) Good for use at EITHER of our studios.

Also offering ongoing:

About Ashtanga Yoga: in Florence/Northampton, MA

Holiday Schedule:
Dec 24: 9 am & 2 pm
Dec 25: Closed
Dec 31: 9 am, 4 pm & 10:30 pm