The 39 Cent Marketing Miracle

Think about this, what are you currently doing to maximize every opportunity to generate business for your centre? Are you sending out 7 day guest memberships in the mail to all new clients? are you asking every single person that joins to give you at least 3 names of family or friends so you can offer them a pass to train the very centre where they have joined?

Are you offering "Ethical bribes" to get people to give you names? All well and good, heres a simple little way that found worked liked a charm and cost next to nothing. I found that we had several thousand flyers from a campaign left over, offering a 2 week guest membership.

what I wanted to do with these was not to simply hand them to people as quite often they will end up in the bin, what I wanted was yes to give them out, BUT to make it memorable or "sticky" (see the book why some ideas fail and others stick by Chip and Dan heath) So what we did was simply to wrap one of these guest passes round a 37 cent bottle of water from Coles, and literally give them to people, we made up a little sign and called it a "member appreciation gift"

This help to invoke the "law of reciprocity" we explained that please feel free to give the pas to a friend or family member to be our guest here for 2 weeks with no obligation, all up cost about 39 cents, benefits priceless!

Oh and give them out when your customer is LEAVING! that way they won't end up in the bin

Kim Martin has been involved in the fitness industry in various roles from being an instructor/owner of a martial arts centre in Adelaide, managing various centres, to owning and managing a marketing company that generated between 70-500 new members in anywhere from 2 -7 weeks. He has personally sold $22,000 in memberships in a single day.

His passion for the industry remains undiminished and he still works in a "hands on" role for a large western suburbs fitness centre (Definition health club)

He both sells memberships and owns the telemarketing company that has generated over $2,500,000 in sales over 6 years for this centre running mini year round promotions where the business gets 100% of the residuals

His toolkit at healthandwellnessmarketingresources.com healthandwellnessmarketingresources.com is guaranteed to get more leads, more sales and more referrals for anybody involved in from of health and wellness occupation from martial arts, Yoga, personal training, fitness centres, massage therapists etc.

He offers a suburb package of free tools for you to test drive without any pressure or hype his proven system. Go to healthandwellnessmarketingresources.com healthandwellnessmarketingresources.com to try out this awesome system now.

Yoga - What Are the Different Poses and Postures?

Yoga, though an ancient Indian practice, has become extremely popular in the West and has a huge fan following globally. This is because of the many advantages and benefits this practice can provide to attain good health and well being, for losing weight effectively and also to achieve an inner sense of peace and harmony.

If you are a beginner, then you must first grasp the many philosophies and fundamentals of yoga before learning the postures and asanas. The intensity of the postures and poses vary according to the level of the person being trained. The basic asanas are intended to strengthen the muscles of the lower back, hands, feet, shoulders and spine whereas the advanced postures involved intense breathing exercises and meditation to de-stress, relax and concentrate on the different body parts to attain liberation and self-realization.

The numerous breathing and stretching exercises of yoga help the body to become flexible and also maintain the suppleness of the ligaments, tendons and joints which is essential for staying fit and healthy even in old age. Regular practice of the light asanas and postures is recommended for individuals suffering from high blood pressure as the yogic practice is known to improve and regularize blood circulation.

Yoga is being increasingly taken up by many people, especially celebrities, for weight loss in a healthy manner. The asanas and postures can burn up to 200 calories per hour and is an effective way to tackle obesity. Of the various types of yoga, power yoga is the best and most effective for losing the extra kilos as it helps to burn the maximum amount of calories. Most leading actresses and models have become fans of this yogic form to keep them fit and in shape.

Hatha yoga asanas and postures are designed to burn lesser calories and involve mastering the breathing technique along with all the basic postures. It is also beneficial for people suffering from diseases and disorders of the prostate gland. Bikram yoga is a highly advanced form and it is advisable to consult your medical practitioner before taking up the asanas and postures. This involves vigorous postures and poses and is practiced in a room with the heat controlled at high temperatures.

There are various types of yoga poses and postures in addition to the ones mentioned above. It is always beneficial to learn these from a trainer rather than from books or articles since yoga is a mixture of both theory and practice. Breathing right is an extremely important part of yoga and it is also important that you never hold your breath while performing any asana or posture. Relaxed breathing is essential and forced breathing is a sign of discomfort.

The yoga poses are classified broadly into standing postures, seated poses, relaxation and breathing techniques, counter and balancing poses, twists, inversions, forward and backward bends. It is also important to regularly practice yoga to gain maximum benefit and thus maintain your body and mind healthy and fit.

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Yoga For Kids Presents the Key to a Futuristically Brighter Society In General

This article has been written due to comprehensive case study. As a mother and professional in the field of Yoga, I'm confident it will help you understand this important subject.

Yoga for kids is generally considered not an educational formula but rather a way of showing children ways to cope with stress. In Eastern countries such as India, children receive yoga classes at very small ages, but in the West, parents make the choice whether to train their kids or not. The very good part about it results from the possibility of the children to develop self-awareness and spirituality more quickly and better than a grown-up. Yoga for kids teaches body and mind control as well as it helps create good behavioral patterns.  It can be shown that yoga training does effectively decrease bullying and increase anger management for 4th and 5th grade students with whom I have personally worked.  The rationale for this hypothesis was based on the first vow of raja yoga, ahimsa, that one vows to be non-violent to self and others.

Presently, some schools include kids yoga as an additional curricular activities, but most of the time classes are independent. Just like dance and karate courses, kids yoga can be easily squeezed in the child's daily program. Therapeutic studies indicate that yoga has had very good results in the case of hyperactivity or deficit disorder cases. Since with these disorders, kids constantly crave movement, kids yoga helps to the channeling of these impulses in non-destructive ways. Self-confidence, balance and calm are the great benefits to result from yoga-for-kids programs. The children learn yoga philosophy, practice yoga postures, learn breathing and concentration techniques, as well as, traditional conflict resolution strategies and dialogues.

Moreover, since yoga classes involve working in a community, children develop team skills while working to get in the poses. The anatomical flexibility specific to young age makes postures a lot easier to perform; adults on the other hand have to work a lot more to reach the mobility level necessary to practice yoga. Although the physical part is not that challenging, a major obstacle comes from meditation and relaxation, particularly because kids enter such states more difficultly. Therefore, visualization proves the best way of helping young and grown up yoga trainees get into the relaxed state of mind.

The names of the postures in kids yoga classes allow children to learn them more easily. Thus, instead of performing asanas they will make a bridge, a mountain, a cat, a dog or a cobra, to name only a few. Moreover, trainers never push the practice of kids yoga to the limit of pain, as the activity wouldn't be that attractive with an extra pressure. 

A comprehensive yoga program can greatly reduce violence and bullying, but, the long term lasting effects are still unclear but should be obvious at this point. The results of this intervention acknowledge yoga as an effective method for increasing anger management skills and decreasing physical outbursts of violence for upper elementary school age children during the time of implementation of a competently applied program.

This article was written to provide you with knowledge about the subject of why Yoga for Kids is so important in today's world. I appreciate you taking your time to read it.  Visit my site to see focused kids and proven results.

Dee Marie has been a Master in the field of Yoga therapy for many years. Her focusted direction is to build a stronger world through early education of yoga for children. calmingkidsyoga.org/DeeMarieBio.html Yoga for kids

Teaching Hatha Yoga - Gifts To Give Your Yoga Students

Let's look into the minds of our Yoga students. What do they need most? What are the most valuable gifts we can leave behind for our Yoga students? Is it something expensive? Would they benefit most from an electronic gift?

Many people look at the word "gift" as a tangible present, but you can give Yoga students good memories and valuable lessons, which last a life time. Below are a few priceless gifts for Yoga students.

Instill enough positive energy within them to become their own best Yoga teacher. A Yoga student must learn to develop full awareness of his or her physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Never hold back any information, which will benefit a Yoga student's health or success. Yoga teachers are a guide toward a healthy and successful life. Students must be encouraged to independently think for themselves.

Praise students, when it is earned. Whenever a student tries his or her best, you should acknowledge the effort with praise. When you praise, you instill self-worth in your Yoga students. Self-worth is a must, for any person to find a valuable purpose in life.

Take the time to observe everything possible and give an assist when needed. This does not only apply to physical assists in Asana practice. When you see a student who could use encouragement, make sure you are a motivator.

Create a haven within your Yoga classes. Students should expect an atmosphere without pretense, intolerance, or sarcasm, in your classes. It should be a pure joy to learn Yoga from you.

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

? Copyright 2007 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Yogic Solutions - Finding the Source of Negativity

Recognizing your own destiny, through self-realization, is a foundation of Yoga. We often hear terms such as: "I need time to get it together," or "I need to find myself." This is the beginning of self-realization and the recognition of a need to find solutions.

Now, what if you find your environment is full of negative energy and the source is a friend, spouse, roommate, partner, co-worker, parent, or child? Many people may tell you to leave this situation for your own health, but you are still drawn to this person because you care for him or her. It is easy for someone else to say, "Just leave," but this concerns your life and someone you love or care about.

Let's look at some realistic solutions for helping those we care about and our loved ones. For a start, find the true source of negative energy and make sure you are addressing it. It may be an outside influence, chemical addiction, or chemical imbalance. Professional counseling may be needed.

The outside influence could be another person with a very powerful, but negatively charged mind, which affects the person you see every day. All you see is the affect that personality has on the person you know, but you have not met the more powerful personality.

An example of this is a pessimistic person you know from work. One day, you meet his or her "significant other" at an office party, only to discover the significant other of your co-worker is completely toxic.

Sometimes, we are the source of negativity and do not realize it. Our "soul searching sessions" should give us a reality check, but negative personalities rarely reach full self-realization or transformation. Therefore, if you are trying to help, research and be completely sure of the source.

© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA.
riyoga.com riyoga.com

He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit:
yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Hatha Yoga For Beginners - Six Simple Steps to Enjoy Your First Yoga Class

As a yoga teacher it is always a pleasure when potential students phone up and inquire about attending yoga classes. If it is their first class many students are nervous and anxious. Can you remember what it felt like to be a yoga beginner? Do you remember how you felt? Were you nervous, excited or just glad to have a quiet space to rest and relax?

To get the most of out of your first Hatha yoga class take a few minutes to read and digest the following six simple steps.

Six Simple Steps to Enjoy Your First Yoga Class

1. Smile and be happy. You have made an important investment in yourself. Your life is full and there are lots of demands on your time and energy. The fact you have made the decision to start yoga sends a subtle signal to your brain that life is about to change. You are taking the first step to regain control over your time and care for yourself.

2. Let friends and loved ones know when you are going to your class. Remind them not to phone you as you will not be able to answer during your class. Your class can last between 60 - 90 minutes and after the class you may not feel like speaking to anyone straight away.

3. Check in with your yoga teacher before you attend the class. Have a telephone conversation or send her an email. If you have any particular concerns talk them over with your teacher and make sure all your questions are answered.

4. The night before your class, check you have loose comfortable clothing, tracksuit, warm top, a blanket and yoga mat. Some yoga teachers will supply you with a blanket and/or yoga mat. But if you decide to continue your practice then it is more hygienic to buy your own yoga mat. Plan your route, check out how long it will take to arrive, check out parking or bus/train timetables. The last thing you want is to be hassled about how to get to your yoga class. Aim to arrive at least 10 minutes before the class starts so you can complete an initial medical/lifestyle questionnaire and familiarize yourself with your surroundings.

5. On the day of your yoga class, try not to eat a heavy meal at least 60 - 90 minutes before your class. If coming straight from work, then a light snack, for example fruit and a glass of water can be eaten. By all means bring a light snack to eat after your class.

6. Once you arrive at your yoga class, remember to take your shoes off and leave them in the designated place. Most yoga studios/classes do not allow outdoor shoes into the yoga space.

7. Introduce yourself to your yoga teacher. Smile at your fellow yogis and relax and smile as you roll out your mat.

Well done. You have taken the first step in taking a positive step towards caring for yourself. Yoga is a life line, a gift you give to yourself. So take your time and enjoy your gift to the max.

If you are looking for a quick and easy way out of your current crazy hectic lifestyle and wish to regain calm and balance in your home-work life then claim your FREE special report Yoga Exercises And Relaxation Techniques To Help You Start Your Day In A Calm and Peaceful Way on yogainspires.co.uk yogainspires.co.uk guaranteed to help you start your day on a positive, peaceful vibe.

Blessings From Ntathu Allen, Yoga and Meditation Teacher. Visit me for further support and encouragement on your personal wellness journey on yogainspires.co.uk yogainspires.co.uk

Ashtanga Yoga Postures Really Need Not to Be So Tough

Doing ashtanga yoga postures in class must never become a competition. Everyone will do the finest they can with the body that they have. This means that some individuals will look like the instructor and some will appear like anything but. Before you attempt any ashtanga yoga postures or take any yoga classes, you need to ask your doctor in case you are well sufficient to carry out yoga.

You can find some issues about your physical condition that your instructor is going to have to have to know about you to have you safely perform ashtanga yoga postures. It's not sufficient to have a designer jute mat, a headband and fancy organic yoga clothing. You also have to have to become honest with your instructor. You have to tell him or her when you are pregnant, have low blood pressure, have arthritis or have had any surgery.

You also will need to let them know when it hurts at any time you do ashtanga yoga postures. When you're warmed up and reasonably healthy, none with the ashtanga yoga positions you're asked to complete must hurt. If they do, you've to stop. You won't get any extra yoga class points by continuing ashtanga yoga poses of they hurt. The only thing you'll win is a day from the hospital.

One with the usual factors you will be asked to try and do would be to touch your toes without bending your knees. This is physically impossible for some people. For that reason, their ashtanga postures needs to be modified by the instructor. You can either bend your knees, or just bend down as far as you'll be able to go, even if your fingertips seem miles above your toes.

You might also be allowed to lean against a wall or a sturdy chair so that you can assist train your body into undertaking other ashtanga yoga postures. Often, you might be allowed to bring a yoga ball to class and use that in leg lifts or sitting exercises if you can't do the poses within the usual manner. These balls are from time to time known as "Pilates balls" or merely "exercise balls".

In conclusion, you happen to be attending a yoga class or instruction for the very good of your wellness, not to hurt your well being. If any pose hurts, stop the pose and tell your instructor. The instructor would rather see you do some other pose instead of get hurt. After all, you can't be one with the universe when you've got whiplash.

Chloe Walker has been writing articles professionally, both online and offline, since 4 years ago. This author is not only writing in the subject of health, but also in dieting, fat loss, fitness and many other more. Check out her latest website in touchscreencashregister.org Touch Screen Cash Register which discuss and review about touchscreencashregister.org/pos-receipt-printer.html pos receipt printer.

What You Ought to Find Out About Alternative Treatments

There are a lot of individuals that are now keen on alternatives treatments so as to stay in health. In fact when you are aware that traditional medicines might have some unwanted effects we could easily understand why people are now making the switch. Now are these treatments truly successful? The aim of this information is to offer an introduction to the most typical types of alternative treatments and you ought to continue reading it if you want to get more info.

First of all we have yoga. Yoga originates from India and has gained a great number of followers from the western world. In truth it's very common to utilize yoga as a relaxation technique and also to handle numerous body conditions. By using a number of postures and breathing techniques it is believed that yoga can assist the body cure itself and get rid of certain health issues. There are plenty of centers where one can get happinesslifetime.com yoga training and that will help you get started in no time. There's also some yoga courses that are offered on DVDs which may be interesting to think about.

Yet another interesting treatment which you might consider is thalassotherapy. This is a treatment that may be based upon the therapeutic attributes of seawater. It is thought that the mineral present in sea water may be absorbed by the skin thus helping it cure some diseases.

Third treatment that you might think about is hypnosis. There are numerous individuals who are now turning to this method so as to cure themselves. There are for instance individuals who are employing hypnosis as a tool to help in weight reduction. Although you may start with hypnosis it might be recommended that you get assistance from a professional to teach you the fundamentals of hypnosisadvisers.com how to perform hypnosis before you get going.

Alternative treatments have grown really popular during recent times as men and women search for methods to heal themselves. Indeed individuals are becoming more and more aware of the restrictions of traditional medicines and are searching for treatments that will not cause any unwanted effects.

If you do not have much experience with alternative treatments then I will advise you to begin slowly. You can for instance try to consider some yoga DVDs to get going.

Bodyweight Conditioning - Why It's a Superior Way to Train

In previous articles I have attempted to explain why bodyweight conditioning is a superior form of training. I've talked about gymnasts and how they are able to build incredible, animal like strength using nothing but their own bodyweight. Another example of athletes who are in incredible shape with terrific athletic ability are wrestlers. And by wrestlers, I don't mean today's professional wrestlers. Most of these are more entertainers than athletes. However, there was a time when professional wrestling was a real sport. Real wrestling, as opposed to the WWE stuff, requires strength, stamina and flexibility. Back at the turn of the last century, some of these real wrestling matches would go on for hours. How did these athletes get in the shape required to do this? You guessed it. Most of them used some form of bodyweight exercises.

One of the biggest proponents of natural bodyweight conditioning was a professional wrestler by the name of Karl Gotch. He wrestled in the Olympics in 1948 and turned professional thereafter. He was known for being in unbelievable shape and for being an absolute maniac when it came to conditioning. These are this thoughts on training:

"I don't like weight lifting for wrestling", says Karl. "I believe you should do gymnastic type exercises that use your own bodyweight. Take a gymnast, for example. he is the only athlete, that, without weight training, when given his own body weight and asked to press it overhead, will go BANG and press it without any problem. You've got to look at the animals in the wild. That's what I did. I watched how they moved around and figured out how to do similar movements. When I was growing up in Belgium, a doctor friend of mine took me to the zoo to observe the animals. He said that they were the ones who knew how to train. He was right. So I started to put together a way of training ... but I don't want to take credit for it. How can you take credit for exercises and ideas that are at least 3000 years old?"

The bodyweight exercises that Karl is talking about are most likely the kind that Indian wrestlers used to perform (and still do). Exercises like Hindu squats and Hindu push ups, among others. As well, much of Yoga actually has it roots in wrestling, I believe.

Anyway, for most of his wrestling career, Karl was a fierce advocate of bodyweight conditioning. However, he had an open mind and he DID decide to train exclusively with weights. In his mind, how would he know if his natural methods were superior if he didn't try the other way? He worked diligently at it, and once was able to squat 700 pounds and bench over 400. Pretty impressive. However, what Karl discovered is that the weight training did not give him CONDITIONED STRENGTH. Meaning, the strength he gained allowed him to lift weights, but that's about it. When he was engaged in a wrestling match, he would get tired after a very short period of time. Again, this is the key. In my mind, man man exercises like weight lifting do not train your body in the way nature intended. You CAN achieve a certain look with it, which is fine. However, it is ultimately a phony look. Karl would call it counterfeit muscle. All of that muscle you acquire may look good, but none of it is worth a damn. What can you do with it? If you get tired playing tennis or pull a muscle lifting a bag of groceries, who cares? If you want to get in superior shape the strength you have must be balanced with stamina and flexibility. The way to get this is with a program of bodyweight conditioning.

So, the question is, what exactly do you want? Most likely, you're not a wrestler (or a gymnast) and never plan to be. However, what are you looking for in an exercise program? If you want to acquire an athletic, healthy, natural body that is strong, flexible and possess great stamina, bodyweight exercises are the way to go. Always remember, animals in the wild don't need to use machines or weights, and neither do you.

David Nordmark is a Vancouver based fitness enthusiast and trainer who also run the website animal-kingdom-workouts.com/index.html Animal-Kingdom-Workouts.com He also writes regularly on natural health, weight loss and bodyweight exercises on the bodyweight-exercises.animal-kingdom-workouts.com bodyweight exercises blog.

Breathing Exercises Should Be One of Your Tools in Completely Controlling Your Asthma Condition

Until recently, western medical research has been inconclusive in determining whether or not there is real benefit for an asthmatic to conduct breathing exercises as part of an overall asthma management program. These exercises have certainly been popular in many alternative type asthma management programs but have not yet been embraced by allopathic, or traditional western physicians.

But they are beneficial and will help an asthma sufferer reduce symptoms and increase strength.

The two most often practiced techniques are Buteyko (named after the Russian doctor who developed them) and a happinesslifetime.com yoga training technique known as pranayama. In very simple terms, Buteyko exercises involve breathing through the nose (not mouth), exhaling for as long as possible and then holding the breath as long as possible at the end of the exhale. During the inhale, a series of short, but shallow breaths are practiced. Pranayama is about correct posture, relaxation and controlled, slow inhalation and exhalation, with a focus on using the diaphragm muscles to assist with breathing.

While breathing techniques have long been supported by naturopathic physicians, it is only in the last several years that the allopathic medical community (traditional doctors) has moved to try and quantify any potential benefit from these exercises. One study, published in the March 2004 edition of "Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine" concluded there might be some benefit, although more study was required.

In several patient groups (some using buteyko training and others using pranayana), there did appear to be reduced asthma symptoms although lung function did not appreciably change (as measured by PEFR). Nevertheless, patients felt better and did experience a reduction in need for relief medications.

How do breathing exercises help asthmatics

Since asthma is related to inflammation of the lungs and constriction of the smooth involuntary bronchiole muscles, how can doing breathing exercises help alleviate symptoms?

For starters, it is estimated that some 30% of asthmatics suffer some degree of breathing dysfunction. Bad habits are easily learned when suffering from asthma symptoms and it is not uncommon for those habits to continue in between attacks - breathing through the mouth and short, shallow breaths for example.

This type of breathing deprives the lungs of their full potential to effectively exchange oxygen with carbon dioxide. Breathing exercises enforce good habits where the full range of lung function is used. Consequently, the body gets the oxygen it needs and the chronic asthmatic feels better, with more energy.

And not only will it make the breathing process more efficient, there is evidence that breathing muscles (diaphragm and lung muscles) are strengthened. So even if breath training doesn't directly improve lung function, eliminating bad habits will improve overall health and quality of life. And this new energy level is important in getting stronger and finding the motivation to attack asthma with a total management plan that results in symptoms being completely controlled - with very little, if any need for medications.

In addition to increased energy levels and stronger lung muscles, there is another benefit to breathing exercises -even if it doesn't directly result in increased lung function. And that is when actually enduring an asthma attack.

Anyone who has asthma knows what it is like to struggle for breath. You can't get enough air into your lungs and just as agonizing, you can't seem to get any air out. Asthmatics who practice correct breathing exercises are much more likely to be able to endure, in a controlled manner, an asthma attack than those that don't.

Of course that is not to say that controlled breathing replaces relief medication - it most certainly doesn't. But it does contribute, in a real way, to stabilizing the attack because the asthmatic can fight the temptation to start breathing in an uncontrolled manner. Indeed, biofeedback, a technique in which patients are trained to basically will themselves to breath more efficiently, seems to be getting more and more traction.

Controlling asthma cannot be achieved by only using one tool. Multiple tools should be used - in addition to the control and relief medications prescribed by your physician. Diet, exercise, trigger controls are all essential components; and so is a good and consistent program of breathing exercises. Using all of these tools will allow an asthmatic to completely control her disease and enjoy a symptom free lifestyle.

Peter T Kavanagh is editor of [asthmahelpcenter.com] and a former long suffering asthmatic. He is also the author of Asthma doesn't have to hurt [asthmahelpcenter.com/ebook.html], an ebook describing how he and his daughter became totally symptom free.

The Eight Main Branches of Yoga

Yoga may seem like it's a bunch of people stretching, perhaps in a hot room that makes them sweat. So is it only stretching? Is it weight loss, or a set of relaxation techniques? It is much more then these few things. Many people have the misunderstanding that Yoga is only this or that, but in reality it's many different techniques that attempt to pull the mind and the body together in unity.

If you look at the tradition of Yoga, you will see more than a dozen different areas with many sub areas below each area. It's easier if you picture it as a huge tree that has eight main branches. Each big branch is unique and has its own qualities, but is also part of the main tree. With so many different areas, you are guaranteed to find on that suits your personality, lifestyle and goals. We're going to talk about the most popular branch of Yoga, Hatha. We will not make the same mistake a lot of people make, reducing Yoga to a set of fitness training exercises. We also talk about the meditation and spiritual aspects.

Below are the seven principle areas and a short description:

Bhakti Yoga: The Yoga of devotion

Bhakti Yoga is a belief of a supreme being that transcends their lives. People that follow the belief believe that they can merge with this supreme being by showing devotion. Bhakti Yoga includes making offerings, singing hymns of praise and keeping your mind on the divine, supreme being.

Hatha Yoga: The Yoga of physical discipline

Hatha Yoga help's to purify and prepare the body for enlightenment. All the areas of Yoga seek reach enlightenment, but this area does it by focusing on the body instead of the mind or emotions.

Jnana Yoga: The Yoga of wisdom

Jnana Yoga is the teaching of nondualism, which is the belief that reality is singular and that your understanding of certain objects and things is a misconception. Once you reach enlightenment, everything becomes one and you become one with the immortal spirit.

Karma Yoga: The Yoga of self-transcending action

Karma Yoga teaches followers to act unselfishly, without attachment to any objects and to act with integrity. The teachers of Karma Yoga believe that anything you say or do has consequences which you must take full responsibility for.

Mantra Yoga: The Yoga of potent sound

Mantra Yoga uses a certain sound to harmonize the body and focus your mind. This can work with a single word, a syllable or a phrase. By humming this "mantra", you bring together your body and mind to form one entity.

Raja Yoga: The Royal Yoga

Raja Yoga is a tradition approach to enlightenment. It has eight limbs, including moral discipline, self-restraint, posture, breath control, sensory inhibition, concentration, meditation and ecstasy.

Tantra Yoga: The Yoga of continuity

Tantra Yoga is one of the most misunderstood branches of Yoga. People think that it only has to do with sex and different sexual positions. In reality, it's actually about rituals and visualizations of different deities.

Guru Yoga: The Yoga of dedication to a master

Guru Yoga is very rare in the west. The goal of Guru Yoga is to become one with your master. Your master, or the teacher has assumedly already reached enlightenment and your goal is to meditate on your guru until you merge with them.

The different types of Yoga may sound confusing, but they all boil down to exercises and techniques that you can use day to day to improve your physical and mental health.

Jesus practices Yoga at an instructor level and has for years. He specializes in internet marketing but you can check out his recent site at queenbedrails.net queenbedrails.net where he writes about queenbedrails.net queen bed rails.

Yoga Teacher Training and Certification - What to Expect and How to Get the Most From It

A good yoga teacher training program is one step along that path providing a basic and solid foundation that gives the graduates knowledge, skills, and confidence to begin teaching yoga safely and mindfully. Yoga Alliance maintains a Registry of Yoga Schools that offer yoga teacher training programs of at least 200 or 500 hours. There are also home study yoga teacher training programs available. When looking at these, it's best to make sure that they also offer some type of way of interacting with the teacher/students while you are studying. This is usually done through online discussion groups or forums.

Finding Yoga Teacher Training

If you're uncertain about home study as a method for Yoga Teacher training, read what others have had to say about it and you may be surprised. Most Yoga teacher training camps will teach you what you need to know to become a certified Yoga instructor, but they will not teach you anything about how to operate your own yoga business - you'll have to either learn that on your own or search for a course that offers some business training. The learning environment of many online teacher trainings is filled with demonstration classes, lesson plans and sometimes even ready-to-use teaching tools.

What You Will Learn

In any basic yoga teacher training course you will learn how to practice and teach yoga - not as a basic physical exercise, but as a profound science that unites movement, breath, sound, concentration, meditation and prayer. Along with varying amounts of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and physiology, almost every other style of yoga teacher training today teaches technique; that is, how to teach a particular asana or pose.

Yoga Teacher

It's unfortunate, but true, many excellent Yoga Teachers and Masters do not know how to market their yoga studios. What makes yoga so effective, beyond teaching proficiency, is the presence and vitality that you, the yoga teacher, bring to the class. A teacher trains students in a specific method of yoga. Most teachers divide their day between group classes and individual instruction. Before attending teacher training, most schools require that students have practiced their style of yoga for one or more years.

Length of Yoga Teacher Training

Most teacher training programs take one year and are usually a mix of night classes and weekend seminars. As teachers, it is a necessity to know how to read your students and to know what they need: to know what's essential for them to learn from you. If you are considering becoming a yoga teacher, you may want to talk to your favorite yoga teachers about where they received their training. Your reward will be the certainty that you are meeting your highest goals and dreams about who you are and who you are capable of becoming as a teacher.

Yoga Styles

There are literally hundreds of styles of yoga, and each emphasizes a slightly different approach. Hatha Yoga is one of the most common styles taught in the USA, but there are many variations on this traditional approach. There are so many different yoga styles and approaches that focus on the varying aspects of philosophy and exercise (asana). Any instructor should know how to make use of generally accepted teaching methodology and have a thorough understanding of their own style of yoga along with a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology. These talents, all together make up an effective teacher.

Yoga Teacher Training Certification

White Lotus offered the first yoga teacher training and certification in America in 1968. Teaching certification is awarded on the basis of successful comprehension and mastery of the principles and practice of Yoga and the ability to communicate them to others. There are many yoga schools around the country that will give Teacher Training Certification with only a month of classes, and some give Certification after a single weekend training. There are also online schools offering certification, but it may not be type of certification that will let you begin teaching right away - so do your research first, and then choose the school which matches best with your own desire to complete your certification.

Brett Simpson has practiced yoga for many years. For more useful articles, videos and a free eBook: Easing Your Stress With Yoga, visit his ~Dream Yoga~ website at: dreampublishers.com/healing/yoga dreampublishers.com/healing/yoga/

~Dream Yoga~
Your Yoga Resource
dreampublishers.com/healing/yoga dreampublishers.com/healing/yoga/

Body Weight Workouts

About 5 years ago I bought a couple of books from this guy, Matt Furey, which totally changed the way that I worked out. Up to that point, my workouts focused on weight training. I quickly sold all of my free weights and have never looked back.

After purchasing Furey's books, I realized that I had benefited greatly from bodyweight exercises when I was in high school. I wrestled one season. I also did not lift any weights during the entire season. They were not part of our team workouts, and who had the energy to workout with weights after practice.

After wrestling season was over, I went back into the weight room. The first time I was on the bench, after warming up, I was able to bench press 25 pounds more than my previous best. I was amazed because I hadn't touched a barbell for over 3 months!

After going through the course that I purchased, I realized that there were a lot of exercises in the book that I did in wrestling practice. Why didn't I just keep doing those workouts after wrestling?! Can't regret the past. The great thing is you can start exactly where you are and actually see results with body weight workouts.

Another great benefit to body weight workouts is you can see results without having to dedicate incredible amounts of time. In fact, you can probably see results working out for less than 20 minutes per day. Who can't do that?

Body weight workouts are great for people who travel and are on the go. You do not need a gym and you do not need any equipment. The only thing you probably should have is a mat or comfortable piece of carpeting. Yoga mats can work.

Since buying my first book, I've purchased several other books and courses on body weight workouts, power yoga and other similar topics. They are all good. I like to vary my workouts and having information from different sources helps greatly with this. Check out some body weight workouts. You will be pleased.

John Horenkamp writes about fitnesstrainingandworkouts.com fitness and working out at fitnesstrainingandworkouts.com fitnesstrainingandworkouts.com.

Add Challenge, Fun, Safety and Convenience to Your Fitness Ball Use, With These Simple Tips

An exercise ball can make your workouts a lot more fun by challenging your body in ways that are different from those it's used to. However, to avoid injury, as with everything in the realm of exercise, proper use and maintenance are required. To keep your exercise ball in safe operating condition, a little maintenance is required, but not much. Here are some guide lines for the safe use and maintenance of your favorite exercise ball.

Figuring out how and where to store your ball is probably going to be the most mundane challenge you face. If you have only a little space, you may have to deflate and inflate your ball between uses, which you may find to be a hassle. If that's what you must do, then buy an electric pump. Using any other method may eventually prove to be so much trouble, that you lose your enthusiasm and stop using your ball altogether; and we don't want that. So buy an inexpensive electric pump. It will save you hours of time and a lot of stress.

Some balls are weighted in one spot to keep them from rolling around when you're not using them (between exercises for example). This makes it convenient, if you have space, to store your ball in one corner of the room, because the weight will keep it in place (otherwise there's no telling where it might wind up).

Some balls come with a circular stand (basically a plastic ring, which can be purchased separately) which prevents your ball from rolling. Actually you could use any open ended, round object to hold your ball (like a bowl or pan you're not using), but the stands, made for the purpose, look nicer. Some are even made to allow you to use your ball with exercise bands.

Be sure to keep your ball away from heat sources like fire places, heaters and stoves, since heat will cause your ball to soften, weaken and expand. If that happens, it's only a matter of time until your ball bursts and you fall painfully and ignominiously to the floor.

Keep your ball clean but don't use chemical cleaners or harsh detergents. Best is a soft cloth and clean, hot water, with or without mild soap. Anything else poses a threat to the integrity of the material of which the ball is made.

Pay particular attention to the surface on which you clean your ball too. It should be clean and dry, otherwise you'll just replace the dirt you've removed, with dirt from the floor, as you turn your ball around. Make especially certain to remove any sharp object from the cleaning surface (staples, pins, railroad spikes and the like).

One more word about pumps. Most balls come with some sort of manual pump, either a hand or foot pump. These are fine if you only need to inflate your ball occasionally. However, an inexpensive electric pump will make this task a lot easier. If you shop around on sites like Amazon.com, you'll find several for under $20 (as of this writing); and, believe me, it's well worth the money.

As for your practice space, there are a couple of things to watch for. First, make sure it's big enough. In general it should be no smaller, in either direction, than your height (no smaller than a jail cell, you might say).

Sharp edged furniture is the enemy; so make sure you clear all of it from your space. Remember that the ball will challenge your balance, so your movements may be somewhat out of your control (especially if you're just beginning). So unless you enjoy smashing your head into the corner of a table, make sure everything is moved out of the way.

Your exercise ball is a very versatile piece of exercise equipment. It can be used alone or in combination with other forms of exercise. The best way to take advantage of this fact is to use your ball as part of your regular workout.

The extra fun the ball adds to your other workout methods, like strength training, is to make them more challenging; which keeps your exercise routine from becoming routine. In other words, have fun with your ball. If your exercise isn't fun, you probably won't keep it up for long.

Richard has been publishing articles in multiple online venues, since 2003. Interested in researching and writing about a wide variety of topics, this author publishes articles, not only here but also on his own web sites. Check out his latest website about washersanddryersonline.org/index.html Washers & Dryers which discusses topics like washersanddryersonline.org/Front-Load-Washing-Machines.html Front Load Washing Machines. This site was created to help the consumer find the right product at the right price for his needs.

Are You Wondering What Is Hot Yoga?

Yoga has seen a growing rise in popularity over the years as more and more people jump into the fitness bandwagon. While yoga classes are being offered in many different studios all over the country, there is one particular type of yoga that many people have taken interest in and that is hot yoga. A trained yoga instructor who has studied the practice can give any enthusiast a wonderful experience.

Hot yoga basically differs from the typical yoga in the sense that it is done in a heated environment. The basic premise here is that being in a warmer place can help the body sweat out and get rid of toxins while safely doing the poses. A typical yoga studio offering this class should be heated up to 30 to 50 degrees Celsius with a humidity that ranges from 40% to 60%. Bikram was the pioneering style that started this but currently different styles are also being practiced such as Hatha and Vinyasa.

The benefit of practicing this is that it provides complete health care, both physical and mental. The yoga teacher guides students through postures that systematically stimulate the body's organs, muscles, and glands including the entire nervous system. This is what makes it different from the typical yoga. As the student advances through more difficult poses he is at the same time moving freshly oxygenated blood throughout his body's circulation thereby helping him achieve better total well-being. Joining a class can provide many benefits for a person because it not only helps him release stress and reconnect with himself, it can also help him become a healthier person. One will develop better stamina, endurance, flexibility, and balance as his mind and body becomes one. At the beginning one may find himself adjusting to the style but eventually, with patience and dedication, he will soon get more comfortable and start to enjoy himself.

This style of yoga started in Calcutta, India and was passed on from generation to generation of masters. In 1972, when Bikram Choudhury first opened his studio in San Francisco he found that it was easier for his students to become more flexible and do more poses in the heat as compared to environments with colder temperatures. This was how hot yoga was born. Soon other styles of yoga followed like Ashtanga, TriBalance, and Power Yoga. Those who have been practicing traditional yoga for a while should try these other style for a change and see for themselves what kind of benefits it has on the body compared to other styles. Namaste.

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How You Can Become a Creative Hatha Yoga Teacher

Most Yoga teachers follow the lineage, which was designed before them. This is an excellent path to take, as our colleagues share collective thoughts within the "think tank" of a specific style. We have been told, "If we follow the traditional path of our Guru and colleagues, we cannot go wrong."

For the most part, this is true. However, life may throw us a few curves. What if our Guru passes away, or we live on the opposite side of the world? What if we have fallen out of political favor within our style? What if we discover that some parts of our traditional practice put our students at risk of injury?

There are many "what ifs." Some Hatha Yoga sub-styles may not be designed for all of our students. Will your knowledge help a person in a wheelchair, a child, a pregnant student, or someone else who needs special attention? If your answer is "no," you may want to network with other teachers or take specialized happinesslifetime.com Yoga teacher training courses.

Yoga has always been evolving, but has now begun to advance at a rapid pace because of networking and technology. Add to this that Yoga teachers often network with medical professionals. This symbiotic relationship, between Yoga and all forms of medicine, is one of the many reasons why teachers take anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and sports medicine courses.

While it is easy for some to say that Yoga teachers need not worry about anatomy, there is one matter that becomes obvious to all of us. No two bodies are alike. Even identical twins will have differences over the course of a lifetime.

It is true that identical twins will share the same genetics, but the conditions will be different. Identical twins do not share the same exact footsteps, jobs, injuries, repetitive motion, emotional turmoil, and daily activities - over a lifetime.

With this in mind, many Yoga teachers pursue continuing education courses, to tap into a larger collective consciousness of teachers from diversified styles. One misconception among some Yoga instructors is that we must blindly follow ideas that were laid down by others - even if we have a new, creative idea that will prevent hundreds of injuries in the future.

Why rock the boat? This mindset leads to a feeling of helplessness, and it prevents creative ideas. The average workplace runs in this same way. The decision makers are a small group at the top. We could blame our style, Guru, politics, or something else, because our creativity is being stifled by others. In truth, we give permission to those who tell us to be quiet.

The solution is to constantly work on the improvement of our education, personal practice, and teaching techniques. We can point our energy toward a positive cause by helping, discovering, and creating new methods for our students - one day at a time.

? Copyright 2010 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Yoga in Practice: Excuses for Lack of Practice

At one time, or another, we all think, "Why am I here?" Sometimes we think, "Why do I even bother?" Thinking about giving up is a temptation for all of humankind, but we continue to pursue our goals just like our ancestors did.

My wife, Marie, puts it bluntly, "You have two choices, push forward or give up." Sometimes, it is a joy to sit in the back of her Yoga classes, so I can listen to a candid approach to life and teaching Yoga.

Look at how far we have come as a species in regards to Yoga, art, holistic health, medicine, technology, and much more. It is easy to look at the downside of humanity, but a lot of our ancestors did not give up. In fact, they recorded past failures and achievements from which we could learn.

As a Yoga practitioner, or Yoga teacher, you have the ability to learn a complete health maintenance system, "loaded with archives." The archives of Yoga are so plentiful that none of us will be able to study, digest, and practice it all in one lifetime. We know that knowledge is power, and Yoga will improve our lives exponentially.

In getting back to making excuses: Everyone makes them now and then. Some Yoga practitioners have stated they are too old, too stiff, and too weak to continue practicing with intensity. Most Yoga students, interns, and Yoga teachers, will admit to being distracted by life. Sometimes, this is a good thing because your body, or mind, needs a rest, and a little change is harmless.

However, this is not an endorsement to avoid the benefits of steady Yoga practice. Also, this is not an endorsement to become a "couch potato." Having worked with Yoga students who have a variety of physical disabilities, Yoga can be practiced on your couch, on the floor, in your bed, or sitting down.

Granted, some of the vigorous styles of Yoga would have to be modified, but there is still no reason to abandon Yoga practice for long. Having seen the improvement of Yoga students in wheelchairs, and hospital beds, there is no reason why the study of Yoga should be, "put on the back burner."

There is a saying that, "Seeing is believing." This is true for most of the world, but the evidence of improved health, from steady Yoga practice, is obvious. If you want to worry less, become stronger, become more flexible, or clear your mind, Yoga does all of these things and much more.

There is no excuse for keeping the gift of Yoga to yourself. If you have seen Yoga improve your life, you are a "witness", and you have the ability to help others improve their lives. Almost every obstacle that life throws in front of us can be overcome, unless we give up.

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Are You Sick of Your Legs Failing You Out on the Fresh Powder? Try These Exercises For Skiing

How good is your direction and your balance when you ski? You may assume that balance, coordination, and the ability to point your body where you want it to go are just inborn traits that you either have, or you don't.

It's true that some people seem to be naturally graceful and others somewhat inherently clumsy, but it's also true that you can greatly improve your balance and your coordination with some simple exercises for skiing. These exercises will improve your muscle tone and overall strength so that your body responds quickly and easily to those demands put upon it.

If you're ready to stop having your legs fail you every time you try to hit the slopes or the cross-country terrain, consider these simple exercises for skiing that will increase your fitness.

Hand to Big Toe Pose

Very often exercises for skiing involve stretching while toning, and are sometimes harder to perform than they seem. The hand-to-big-toe pose, a common advanced yoga movement, is one such exercise.

To perform this movement, stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Shift your weight to your right leg and pull your left knee into your belly. Reach your left hand across your thigh and grab your big toe or wrap your hand around the inside of your left foot. Gently straighten your left leg and pull it slightly to the left, holding it with your hand this entire time. Make your leg as straight as possible, although newcomers to this exercise will need to keep their knee bent a slight bit.

Your weight and balance are supported by your right leg as you do this. Hold this pose as long as possible then pull your left leg in and down to the ground, switching sides. Repeat this movement six times for each leg, and feel the muscles working on your balanced leg as you do.

The Eagle Pose

This movement also seems very simple but is actually very challenging, and will build strength, balance, and coordination as well. To perform this pose, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Pick up your left foot, cross it over your right leg and tuck it behind your right calf. Hold your arms in front of you, bent at the elbows. Wrap your right arm around your left and clasp your hands.

The eagle pose sounds simple and may seem like nothing more than a human pretzel, but it takes enormous flexibility, balance, and coordination to hold this pose. You'll feel the muscles in your legs and back working to keep you upright and balanced. This is the same work your body will do when you're on skis and trying to keep itself upright and balanced.

Practice these two simple but skifitnesstraining.com/skifit_report.html effective exercises for skiing often and with concentrated movements, and your legs will never fail you again when you're out on the slopes!

To get into the best possible ski shape of your life and ski all day long without the dreaded aching, burning jello-leg, then grab your free report and start chiseling that body for ski season.

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The Transition From Fitness to Yoga and Why I Stayed With Yoga

After 10 yrs of no yoga I started to practice again. Deciding yoga was the missing ingredient to the hard-core cardio and weight training I was into. Unfortunately 10 years of workouts had tightened up my muscles and joints and all of the yoga poses that came so easily 10 yrs prior now seemed out of reach.

Determined to get back to where I was, though nagged by the thought "you get stiff and then you get old", I persisted. I was not willing to admit that it was because I had aged that I had lost flexibility! Were the 'work outs' the culprit in losing flexibility? Or was it the fact that I didn't stretch enough, after workouts? Who has the time?! I was a busy trainer running all over town taking care of clients. Cardio, weight training, stretching...it all took too much time! As I incorporated more yoga and less workout, I enjoyed it so much I enrolled in a 200hr happinesslifetime.com yoga certification to compliment the fitness I was teaching.

It took 3 full yrs of all yoga and no working out, but I finally won back that beautiful natural flexibility! Did I want to go back to working out? Not in the least, all that flexibility felt too good. Plus, no more aches and pains from knotted, sore and aching muscles while pushing myself with workouts.

Was it worth the 3 yr investment? Well first of all my body looked and felt so much better. In yoga because you are constantly holding your own body weight in an endless array of movements from handstands, to shoulder stands, to one legged balances with twists and plank variations, my body remained very strong, sculpted and supple. I also learned to breath properly, stand quietly, and to surrender deeper into poses, practicing awareness of where and how each body part was aligned and activated. From a thoughtful intention and dynamic heart felt center I learned to ground by pressing deeper into the floor which freed me to expand energy outward and upward to lengthen so as to create lines while moving gracefully from one pose to the next. I discovered a form of moving meditation in union of body, mind and breath which is the definition of yoga.

I also slimmed down, not from 'dieting' or effort but rather, a sense of feeling fulfilled.content. Not as ravenously hungry as I was when I was "exercising" food simply, though I still enjoyed it, was fuel to feed my somewhat thankfully diminished hunger. It was no longer as tantalizing and appealing perhaps because I was calmer, and felt more at peace. I made healthier choices too, desiring foods and living situations that were colorful and simple. Yoga gave me the gift of self acceptance and self compassion, life's ups and downs became easier and less jarring. I stopped feeling like I had to be better, do more, get leaner and I relaxed into my own skin more.

This is when I got my full 500hr certification. Teaching has become a wonderful outlet for me, a different form of meditation that calms and soothes.

Do I still practice other forms of exercise? Sure! I love walking, for long distances too. Cycling also feels wonderful. Sometimes I have to run and I can, gracefully. Gardening, landscaping our place in the country, chopping wood, weeding, helping my husband build beautiful rock walls, dancing, but the yoga is a part of my life that I practice everyday on and off the mat.

Deborah Caruana RN, CYT, CPT, MES, Yoga Lifestyle Coach
U..E.S. Manhattan NY 10021
Website: vitalsignsfitness.com vitalsignsfitness.com
Email:

How to Choose a Good Meditation Teacher Training Or Meditation Certification Program

Nowadays, meditation and yoga are facing their huge demand. Many of meditation programs and studios start to appear, as well as meditation teacher training and meditation certification program. Here I will inform you about four important factors on how to know to choose an acceptable or good meditation program or meditation teacher training.

1. Duration

Make sure that the meditation program offered has an exact time when the program will be finished. An acceptable duration to become a master of meditation is eight weeks, but it still depends on how well you do and follow the program or training.

2. Support

Make sure what are the supports offered for you when you apply the meditation program. It can be a live support such as telephone course, email support, e-book support, or else. Which the best support for the course is depends on you. If you are one of the visual learner, e-book support might be perfect for you. If you are one of the audio learner, CD or video support might suit you well.

3. Material

Make sure that the material offered is easy to learn and covers all your meditation learning necessity. Meditation is knowledge about mind and body and some of them have many motions or movements to show such a particular pose. So the best meditation material or syllabus offered must have full illustrated pages or videos.

4. Examination

Make sure that the program meditation you choose offered an examination that has acceptable acclaimed and it would be the best if you get the official and acceptable certificate after the learning program.

That is all for this time. See you soon to your success and spiritual growth.

To your success and spiritual growth,
Choi Rowling

You can learn more about Meditation Teacher Training and get 5 Parts Meditation Mini Course For Free at meditationcertification.blogspot.com Meditation Certification Website

If the link doesn't work, you can copy & paste this link to your web browser meditationcertification.blogspot.com MeditationCertification.blogspot.com/

The Teachings of Zen Masters

The teacher plays a vital role in Zen practice, where direct communication is more important than scriptural study. The teacher-disciple relationship is amazing in Zen tradition. The teacher renders all the essential services that make the disciple to live fully. He helps to understand the life of oneness. And he explains to the disciple how each birth is a joyous event and filled with a sense of wonder.

The teacher teaches the Dharma, that means the doctrines and teachings of Lord Buddha. According to Zen beliefs, only a noble disciple can realize the Dharma perfectly. The disciple needs to have enlightened mind to get the ultimate wisdom.

A Zen teacher guides the students in meditation, which is the core of Zen practice. He directs the students to perform the rituals flawlessly.

The important role of Zen teacher is to make the student understands the idea of Dharma transmission; this refers to the way in which the teaching is passed from the teacher to the student. The dharma transmission involves awakening the disciple to the true nature. Then the student begins to grow a mystical realization of identity and how to attain Buddhahood.

The teacher gets honorable titles. In Chinese, the title is Fashi, Sunim in Korean, Osho in Japanese and Thay in Vietnamese. He guides the student by providing step-by-step approach.

In Zen, lineage is a system where the teacher certifies the student to teach others. The student then becomes a teacher. It is common for daily chanting in Zen temples to include the lineage. However, modern Zen Buddhists raise criticisms against lineage system.

The Zen teacher teaches the law of karma, which is so powerful and governs the world. He helps the student to take the path of Zen. The disciple can get new perspectives and insights, which ultimately lead to enlightenment.

While the written word regarding Zen practice is often misunderstood by common people, a teacher can clearly specify the meanings and concepts. This emphasizes the importance of Guru in Zen practice where the instructor awakens the thoughts of Buddha in his disciple through meditation.

The techniques and practices require understanding of many suttas and sutras of Buddhist principles. The sutras refer to canonical scriptures, which are the records of the oral teachings of Lord Buddha. Sutta is exclusively used to refer Buddhist scriptures in Pali form.

The role of the teacher is somewhat different in China. He needs to give training in virtue and discipline. The training in wisdom is also essential. It is highly important for a student to find a real teacher who can teach Zen; there are many Zen monasteries all over the world and the students can find a teacher there.

The role of teacher here is vitally important since he alone can enlighten the students in right way. He gives some guidance in Zazen practice, which is a type of Zen sitting meditation. He says some words to create an environment in which the student can be awakened. He can even guide in treating makyo, physical pain, and sleepiness and so on.

Here's an excellent way to start enjoying the benefits of meditation today. The Deep Zen audio program is easy for anyone wanting to learn deep-zen.com how to meditate and helps advanced meditators achieve deeper levels of meditation too. Try your free demo here: holothink.org holothink.org.

How a Yoga Class or Group Can Help You Stay Connected

With yoga mat in hand, Rose rushed from her car to the door of the yoga studio. Not wanting to be late she hurried in just in time for the next class. As she rolled out her mat and saw that the class had not yet started, she wondered if she had time to send a few text messages...

Connection and Serenity

One of the best things about yoga is that you don't need very much of anything to get started. It doesn't require any high tech gadgets or fancy equipment. A yoga mat is nice but even that isn't absolutely necessary. Really all you need is the space to stretch out and the willingness to "unplug" from all your phones, iPods, computers, etc.

Anxiety often drives that push to do just one more thing, to seek more and more ways to connect and feel safe but our fast paced, high tech world isn't always the most efficient in helping us achieve what we most want: a sense of connection and a feeling of peace and serenity. In fact it is when you slow down, become aware of your breathing and notice what's going on inside that you are most connected and peaceful. Practicing yoga and mindfulness in a group setting is a wonderful way to tap into a resource that doesn't require an internet connection.

Taking A Yoga Class

A yoga class can be a small or large group (4-40 people) that participants can attend any time. Very similar to other types of group exercise classes yoga classes offer the student an opportunity to practice poses and learn some of yogic philosophy in a group setting. Students may pay a fee for just one class or sign up for a series of classes. A class description will usually be given to help you find your level of experience (beginners to advanced). A teacher directs the students to come into each pose and also teaches students correct breathing and how to connect the mind to the body with the breath. Some demonstrations are given for more difficult poses but mainly the teacher encourages listening to the cues so that students remain focused on their breath. Sometimes the teacher will encourage students to assist another student in a pose but mostly there isn't very much interaction between students in a class. Many yoga studios offer a variety of class times and a range of styles of yoga to fit every preference and schedule. Most health clubs also offer yoga classes.

Joining Yoga Group Therapy

A psychotherapy group that uses elements of yoga and mindfulness, is a small group (6-8 people) that meets weekly with a trained group therapist/yoga teacher. It differs from a yoga class in that it addresses issues arising from your emotional body and each member commits to attending weekly. During the first session group rules are established to create a safe container for everyone to feel comfortable sharing their feelings and experiences. Confidentiality is very important in feeling safe. During group there will be time for yogic breathing, poses and practice with mindfulness as well as an opportunity for members to share their experience and to process what is happening in their lives. Participants decide what they want to talk about, sharing and listening to others they learn new ways to relate to each other. This is a great way to reconnect with yourself and improve your relationships. Through the course of group, members learn how to create a safe space for themselves, to bring balance to the emotional body, learn practices that energize reducing feelings of depression and practices that calm feelings of anxiety. The easy, gentle movements and breathing practices bring more prana (life force energy) into the body, encouraging feelings of connection and wholeness. Participants will also learn they are not alone in what they are experiencing and have the opportunity to relate to people differently in a safe environment with a trained therapist available to help as needed.

Prevention and Treatment

What happens when all the distractions of technology keep us unconscious of what is happening inside? We can lose touch with how we feel, we start to base our decisions on information outside of us and start to ignore signals that can help us navigate our lives. More and more stress build and anxiety or depression result. Finding a yoga class can help prevent stress from becoming debilitating. Group therapy with elements of yoga and mindfulness can help restore wholeness when anxiety/depression are holding you back. Both groups help us find the fun and joy in being human as you recognize your own and others value, strength and start making choices for a better life.

...By the end of class, Rose felt relaxed and renewed. As she slowly lifted herself up from sivasana (corpse pose) she looked around her and smiled at the woman on the mat next to hers. Her heart felt open and her body felt warm and comfortable. Her mind was calm. With her palms together, thumbs touching her heart center she set her intention for the rest of the day: to stay connected to this peaceful feeling, remain loving with an open heart towards the people she loved without any rush to get back to her phone, computer or the TV.

Awareness Counseling is a private practice that specializes in helping adults and families struggling with anxiety and depression using traditional therapy and mind/body methods that are intentionally designed to bring your life into balance. The result is more joy, freedom and enthusiasm for life. The founder, Elle Garfield, ACSW uses an effective combination of methods including cognitive/ behavioral, experiential, mindfulness, bibliotherapy, and Life Force yoga to help clients gain freedom from fear.
For more information go to Awareness-counseling-mi.com Awareness-counseling-mi.com or Call Elle Garfield at 248-961-4081 or email